Thursday of Lent 1

DAY 8: February 25, 2021 Thursday of Lent 1- Matthew 5:6

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.” –Matthew 5:6

In the Gospel of John Jesus said, “If anyone thirst, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me as the Scripture has said, ‘out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” – John 7:37-38 Christ’s death and resurrection proclaimed in the Gospel brings life to all who thirst for Him and His blessings. 

Luther reminds us, “We have a clear assurance that God does not cast aside sinners, that is, those who recognize their sin and desire to come to their senses, who thirst for righteousness.” [1] 

Today marks the 183rd anniversary of the signing of our congregation’s charter. By God’s grace may we continue to hunger and thirst for righteousness; the righteousness of Christ. The story of Friedheim, “the house of peace” is a testimony of the Lord’s faithfulness. He was faithful to His people then; He is faithful to His people now and will remain faithful to His people forever. Thankful for the blessings of the past, confident of the Lord’s presence in our lives, we can look to the future certain that our life in Christ is secure.  

O Holy Spirit, bring refreshing showers of blessing each day of my life. [2] 

                        Blest are they who hunger and thirst;
They shall have their fill. 
Rejoice and be glad!
Blessed are you, holy are you.
Rejoice and be glad!
Yours is the kingdom of God. [3]

Multiply Thy strength, O Lord, in the souls of Thy humble servants, that while we ever worship Thee in Thy holy temple, we may, together with Thy holy angels, rejoice in beholding Thee; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with Thee and the Holy Ghost, One God, world without end. Amen. [4] 

Strengthen us, O Lord, by Your grace, that in Your might we may overcome all spiritual enemies, and with pure hearts serve You through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen. [5]

[1] Luther’s Works American Edition 2:41 copyright © Concordia Publishing St. Louis Fortress Philadelphia, 1955-86

[2] The Lutheran Study Bible copyright © 2009 Concordia Publishing House, St, Louis

[3] Blessed are They Lutheran Service Book copyright © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St, Louis

[4]© 2005 Lutheran Liturgical Prayer Brotherhood

[5]Collect for Thursday of Lent 1, http://www.liturgies.net/Lent/LentenCollects.htm