Friday prior to Ester 5

[1]

– Psalm 31 – This Psalm is a prayer when confronted by a conspiracy so powerful and open that all David’s friends abandoned him. According to Luke 23:46, Jesus applied verse 5 “Father, into Your hands I commit My Spirit.” to His own circumstance. Those who share in His sufferings at the hands of all sorts of forces are encouraged to hear and use this psalm in light of what Jesus has endured for us. Notice that Jesus dismisses His own spirit.

Jesus' death is different from any other.

“The wages of sin is death” - the Bible tells us. Each man must die as a result of sin. We will face death because of our common corrupt nature - found in every person who has ever taken the breath of life. Jesus' death is different, as He never sinned.

The Bible further tells us; "It is appointed for man once to die and after this comes judgment" We will face the judgment seat of God once we die. There will be a day or reckoning for every soul upon this earth. Again, not so with Jesus. His was a perfect sacrifice. As He was innocent and yet charged and judged. Yet He bore our punishment for us - that His sentencing might be sufficient for the sin of the entire world.

Jesus' death is absolutely voluntary - no one else- including His enemies or the devil himself -can take His life from Him. The death of Jesus is a supreme sacrifice. Jesus tells us plainly, "No one takes My life from Me - I lay it down and I take it up again."

Jesus dismisses His life voluntarily. He does it of His own will. This selfless act is necessary and essential to your salvation.

It had to be voluntary for God to be just. There is an element of justice with God. An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, a life for a life. Each sin must be dealt with. Total payment must be made. The debt for sin must be paid. Jesus Christ by His voluntary death paid the ultimate price for sin.

 

It had to be voluntary for God to be God. People can't kill God. We can ignore Him. We can defy Him. We can abandon and disown Him. But we can't kill Him. The devil thought in his heart of hearts that he had killed the Lord of life. Not so! Remember those words of Jesus, "No one takes My life from Me - I lay it down and I take it up again.” That's why Jesus could pray "Father, into Thy hands I commit My spirit."

It had to be voluntary to display fully His love. The death of Jesus was not a selfish act. It was a labor o life to demonstrate fully His love for us. Jesus says in John chapter three: "God loved the world so much that He gave His only begotten Son that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life."

See what manner of love the Farther has for us that we might be the children of God. As the Son has given up His life for you now you are free and your sins they are no more!

Merciful Father, Your patience and loving-kindness  toward us has no end. Grant that by Your Holy Spirit we may always think and do those things which are pleasing in Your sight; through Jesus Christ our Lord.[2]

---

[1] The Crucifixion copyright © Ed Riojas, Higher Things

[2] Collect for Proper 22 Series B, Lutheran Service Book copyright © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis

 

Thursday prior to Ester 5

[1]

 Jesus said, 'I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'” – John 14:6

We never want to lose sight of Easter. Because every Sunday is a celebration of The Resurrection. Because Christ lives, He is the way, truth and life.

Your life in Christ is always in the present.  In light of Easter Jesus is our only way to the Father. After all, what other man has ever returned from the dead?

Only when we do the Jesus truth, in the Jesus way, do we get the Jesus life.

For without the way. There is no going. Without the truth. There is no knowing. Without the life. There is no living.

Without the way. There is no going.  Hold onto this promise. "I am the way." Jesus won't let you down now. 'I am the Way.' In Him you see the Father. In Him you will meet God. His teachings will guide your feet. His presence will sustain your spirit. In all the twists and turns your future path may take, hold fast to Jesus, He is the Way.

"In my Father's house are many dwelling places."- John14:2 Jesus said, “I am the Way.”

"I go to prepare a place for you." -John14:3 Jesus said, “I am the Way.”

"I will come again and will take you to myself, so that where I am, there you may be also," –John 14:3 Jesus said, “I am the Way.”

"If you know me, you will know my Father also." -John14:7 Jesus said, “I am the Way.”

"From now on you do know him and have seen him." -John14:7 Jesus said, “I am the Way.”

"Whoever has seen me has seen the Father." -John14:9 Jesus said, “I am the Way.”

Jesus is the Way. He is the truth. Without the truth. There is no knowing.

Jesus is the way for those who dwell in an abyss of misery, futility and pain.  Jesus is the way for those going through the motions. Jesus is the way for those who fear their questions are too basic. So bring your questions. Even your hardest questions to the God Jesus makes known.

 For this God can handle them. Indeed, this God wants them. And when you are next to your wits end. When your hearts are troubled. And your blood pressure is racing with anxiety -- look to Jesus, the one who preached God's mercy and taught God's love.   Who healed the sick, opened the eyes of the blind, and made the lame to walk. And then conquered death so that even the grave can no longer claim you. Because what you see in Jesus...this is what God looks like. This is who and what God is. Love, perfect love, for you, for all of us, and the whole world.

Jesus is the Way. He is the truth. He is the life. Without the life. There is no living.

The life you live is not your own. The life you live is rooted in Christ. "You are, for the sake of Christ, loved and treasured and of value in this world.  Apart from your perception. Another's evaluation. Or your own feelings or failures. It’s a reality that comes from outside of you, hanging there on the cross."[2]

This does not mean that we are free from suffering, failure or loss. We often fail and fail miserably. The stuff of self identity is the difference between the words "do" and "done".  In the words of John the Baptizer, "I must decrease. He must increase." The life you live is not your own. The life you live finds its identity in Jesus Christ.

St. Paul reminds us, "And since Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death because of sin, the Spirit gives life because of righteousness. And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of His Spirit who lives in you." - Romans 8:10-11.

The life you live is not your own. The life you live finds its identity in Jesus Christ

O God, You make the minds of Your faithful to be of one will. Grant that we may love what You have commanded and desire what You promise, that among the many changes of this world our hearts may be fixed where true joys are found; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.[3]

---

[1] Baptized into Christ copyright © Ed Riojas, Higher Things

[2] Pr. James Wetzstein, Chapel of the Resurrection, Valparaiso, IN  29 March 2014

[3] Collect for Easter 5, Lutheran Service Book copyright © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St., Louis

 

Wednesday prior to Easter 5

 

1 Peter 2:2-10 – God’s people are a chosen, holy people. As living stones. In a spiritual house. Christians are God’s people. Peter’s letter is considered a sermon to newly-baptized people. As newborn children, they now need spiritual milk until they grow into maturity. The new Christians are likened to living stones in a spiritual house with Jesus as the cornerstone holding them together. Again, they are likened to a spiritual priesthood, which offer spiritual sacrifices. These Christians are the new Israel; God’s chosen people, a holy nation, and a royal priesthood. Because they received God’s mercy in Christ, they have changed from a “nobody” to a “somebody.”

Peter is alluding to a verse from Isaiah 28:16, which Jesus interpreted to refer to himself (See Matthew 21:42).

This verse refers to Jesus as a living stone—an allusion to his resurrection—Christ is alive. The original readers of this letter—mostly Gentiles—had earlier worshiped idols made of inanimate stone—dead—lifeless—having no power to help them. They would surely understand the contrast between those dead idols and their living Christ.

Consider this irony. Peter, whom Jesus gave the Greek name ‘Petros,’ which means rock (Matthew 16:18), now speaks of Christ as a “living stone”—and, in the next verse, will speak of his readers as living stones. However, Peter uses a different word for rock here—the same word that Jesus used when talking about the stone that the builders rejected (Matthew 21:42; see also Acts 4:11).

“Rejected indeed by men, but chosen by God, precious. “(v. 4b). Jesus was rejected, whose rejection led directly to Jesus’ cross. However, God the Father had chosen Jesus so “that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16). Jesus was the Father’s “beloved Son” (Matthew 3:17; 17:5)—precious in the Father’s sight.  The Father now looks at you through the lens of Calvary’s cross.

“You also, as living stones, are built up as a spiritual house“(v. 5a). By virtue of their  connection to Christ, these new Christians have also become living stones—suitable for incorporation into a spiritual house—God’s temple—Christ’s church.

So, what does this all mean? It means you have value importance and worth.  The temptation is to find your importance from within yourself – hence the term “self-worth,” coupled with, “my happiness,” “my truth,” ‘my journey.”  But the consequence can be worse if we see only failure and disappointment.  The Father determines and sees you as precious – more precious than gold. This is why the Savior redeemed you. That you might be His own and live under Him in His kingdom to serve Him in everlasting, innocence and blessedness.

The Father’s final attempt to create a new people is the church. With Noah, God made a new people. He tried again with Abraham. In Christ the Father makes a new people.  Notice the marks of this “new people,” created out of nothing; chosen, different –‘holy,’ commissioned as priests, to ‘declare the wonderful deeds of God. Your value is in the Father’s estimate of you.

Today, many suffer from self-depreciation. They have no respect for themselves. They feel of no account, – worthless. They consider themselves to be “nobodies.” Peter assures us that the Father made somebody out of a nobody. He grants mercy to you. He calls you through His gospel to be received by Him. He chooses you to serve – at this time and place.

Your sufficiency is in Christ. This makes you unique – a child of God – a somebody in this world.

Image: “All Saints,” copyright © Ed Riojas, Higher Things

Tuesday prior to Easter 5

 

Acts6:1-9, 7:2a, 51-60 –Today’s reflection is based on the first reading for this coming Sunday.

The apostolic church has problems of growth. The ministry was so busy that spiritual functions are being neglected. Just keeping up with the daily needs of this fledgling congregation was simply overwhelming. A number of members started complaining about some being neglected. The Greek-speaking widows were not given their share when the food supplies were handed out each day.

This was more than a simple criticism. Remember there were no social systems in place. There was no safety net. Neither was there any government programs promising a stimulus check or a bail out. Widows had no rights. When they were ignored they went without.

Jesus had already addressed this issue before.  Remember the incident in the temple as Jesus observed contributions being dropped into the collection box? (See Luke 21:1-3)  A poor widow gave two cents – all she had - as opposed to the “big bucks” and “generous contributions” of others.  She gave.  She had none other to support her.

There was a generous loophole at the time of Christ.  Children could contribute funds, designated for caring for their elderly parents, and assign them to charity. Thus, they would be free of any obligation of caring for their parents. Says Jesus, “Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘Anyone who curses his father or mother must be put to death.’ But you say that if a man says to his father or mother, ‘Whatever you would have received from me is Corban’ (that is, a gift committed to God), he is no longer permitted to do anything for his father or mother. Thus you nullify the word of God by the tradition you have handed down.” – Mark 7:10-13

It doesn’t take a church program or a committee for you to act. Together we serve God and our neighbor. You have the opportunity to become the hands and feet the fingers and toes of Christ. When you see a need – meet it.

Do you know of someone who is isolated? Reach out to them. Are they in need of groceries? Make a delivery. Drop off a meal.  Do you have extra space in your garden? Zucchini green bean and summer squash grows in abundance!

Lives are being impacted by your compassion and care through your acts of generosity and kindness. True, no one can see a virus. Neither do others often see your charity. But it exists, all the same, in many tangible ways.   

This is your opportunity – to be a sermon in shoes. The story of the 1^st Century Church in today’s lesson is that the church responded to a great need. This is your occasion to serve.  Thank you for your service. As the Savior has said, “‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’ – Matthew 25:40

Remember - God loves to use weak and insignificant people to do great things for the Gospel. “The word of God increased and the number of disciples multiplied.” V. 7 The point of the lesson is simple. God’s people believe the gospel and they responded.

Lift High the Cross copyright © Ed Riojas, Higher Things

Monday prior to Easter 5

 

Psalm 146 -The Antiphon for next Sunday’s Introit is taken from Vs.2, “I will praise the Lord all my life, I will sing praise to My God as long as I live.” This Psalm is an encouragement to trust in the Lord. This is the first of five Hallelujah Psalms which closes out the book of Psalms. Having walked with the Savior observing His Passion during Lent we now rejoice in the forgiveness of sins, life and salvation which is ours through the cross and empty tomb.

 The hymn or song of praise used in the order of Matins is the Te Deum which is a Latin phrase meaning literally, “we praise you.”

In our worship we praise the Lord for all of the blessings He has showered down upon us. Our circumstances often time can overwhelm us, so we are at least persuaded to place our confidence in something or someone “other.”

This psalm contrasts trust in human beings with trust in the LORD.

“Put not your trust in princes, in a son of man, in whom there is no salvation. When his breath departs, he returns to the earth; on that very day his plans perish” (Psalm 146.3–4).

Though the psalm begins with “Put not your trust in princes,” it is evident that the focus is not on a supreme human ruler but on the fact that he is just a mere man (note the parallel to ‘princes’ is ‘a son of man’).

Another human is not a firm source of confidence since, like all others, he too will die and his plans not come to fruition.

On the other hand, the LORD alone is worthy of trust:

He is the creator of all things (v 6)

He metes out justice on earth (v 7)

He supplies food to the poor and hungry (v 7)

When one who has been wrongly imprisoned is set free, it is the LORD’s doing (v 7).

When a blind person is made well, it is only a result of the LORD’s will (v 8)

When a person has been cast down by troubles or oppression, only the LORD can make him stand erect (v 8)

The LORD takes the side of the widow and fatherless when they are wronged (v 9)

But he stands against the wicked person in his attempt to gain unjustly (v 9)

“The LORD reigns forever…to all generations!” (v 10).

This psalm is a reminder that only the LORD is a firm source of confidence in life.

The hymn writer encourages us:

Trust not in rulers; they are but mortal;
Earth-born they are and soon decay.
Vain are their counsels at life's last portal,
When the dark grave engulfs its prey.
Since mortals can no help afford,
Place all your trust in Christ, our Lord.
Allelujah, allelujah![1]

 

Lord Jesus Christ, whose grace always proceeds and follows us, help us to forsake all trust in earthly gain and to find in You our heavenly treasure; for You live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen [2]

---

[1] Praise the Almighty, My Soul Adore Him, Lutheran Service Book copyright © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis

[2] Collect for Proper 23 Series B Lutheran Service Book copyright © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis

Image copyright Ed Riojas, Higher Things

Easter 5 Series A study notes

 Acts 6:1–9; 7:2a, 51–60
1 Peter 2:2–10
John 14:1–14

The Lord Jesus Christ Is the Way, the Truth and the Life

The risen Lord Jesus alone is “the way, and the truth, and the life,” and we come “to the Father” only through Him (John 14:6). God is thus “glorified in the Son,” and those who believe in Him will do the works of Christ because He goes to the Father for us (John 14:12–14). Stephen, “a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit” (Acts 6:5) and “doing great wonders and signs among the people” (Acts 6:8), did the works of Christ. When he was falsely accused and put to death, he “gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God” (Acts 7:55). Fixing his hope there, he commended his spirit to the Lord Jesus and prayed for his murderers. In the same way, all the baptized are called to follow the example of Christ Jesus by faith. Though He was “rejected by men” in the sight of God, He is “chosen and precious” (1 Peter 2:4). He is the chief cornerstone of the Father’s “spiritual house,” and we are built upon Him as “living stones” (1 Peter 2:5).

John 14:1–14

I am the way, the truth, and the life

14:1 Μὴ ταρασσέσθω ὑμῶν ἡ καρδία· πιστεύετε εἰς τὸν θεόν, καὶ εἰς ἐμὲ πιστεύετε.

Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God;[a] believe also in me.  

14:2 ἐν τῇ οἰκίᾳ τοῦ πατρός μου μοναὶ πολλαί εἰσιν· εἰ δὲ μή, εἶπον ἂν ὑμῖν ὅτι πορεύομαι ἑτοιμάσαι τόπον ὑμῖν·

In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?  

14:3 καὶ ἐὰν πορευθῶ καὶ ἑτοιμάσω τόπον ὑμῖν, πάλιν ἔρχομαι καὶ παραλήμψομαι ὑμᾶς πρὸς ἐμαυτόν, ἵνα ὅπου εἰμὶ ἐγὼ καὶ ὑμεῖς ἦτε.

And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.

14:4 καὶ ὅπου ἐγὼ ὑπάγω οἴδατε τὴν ὁδόν.

And you know the way to where I am going.” 

14:5 λέγει αὐτῷ Θωμᾶς· Κύριε, οὐκ οἴδαμεν ποῦ ὑπάγεις· πῶς δυνάμεθα τὴν ὁδὸν εἰδέναι;

Thomas said to him, “Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?”  

14:6 λέγει αὐτῷ ὁ Ἰησοῦς· Ἐγώ εἰμι ἡ ὁδὸς καὶ ἡ ἀλήθεια καὶ ἡ ζωή· οὐδεὶς ἔρχεται πρὸς τὸν πατέρα εἰ μὴ δι’ ἐμοῦ.

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.  

14:7 εἰ ἐγνώκειτέ με, καὶ τὸν πατέρα μου ἂν ᾔδειτε· ἀπ’ ἄρτι γινώσκετε αὐτὸν καὶ ἑωράκατε αὐτόν.

If you had known me, you would have known my Father also.[d] From now on you do know him and have seen him.”

14:8 Λέγει αὐτῷ Φίλιππος· Κύριε, δεῖξον ἡμῖν τὸν πατέρα, καὶ ἀρκεῖ ἡμῖν. 

 Philip said to him, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us.”

14:9 λέγει αὐτῷ ὁ Ἰησοῦς· Τοσούτῳ χρόνῳ μεθ’ ὑμῶν εἰμι καὶ οὐκ ἔγνωκάς με, Φίλιππε; ὁ ἑωρακὼς ἐμὲ ἑώρακεν τὸν πατέρα· πῶς σὺ λέγεις· Δεῖξον ἡμῖν τὸν πατέρα;

Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? 

14:10 οὐ πιστεύεις ὅτι ἐγὼ ἐν τῷ πατρὶ καὶ ὁ πατὴρ ἐν ἐμοί ἐστιν; τὰ ῥήματα ἃ ἐγὼ λέγω ὑμῖν ἀπ’ ἐμαυτοῦ οὐ λαλῶ, ὁ δὲ πατὴρ ἐν ἐμοὶ μένων ποιεῖ τὰ ἔργα αὐτοῦ. 

Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on my own authority, but the Father who dwells in me does his works. 

14:11 πιστεύετέ μοι ὅτι ἐγὼ ἐν τῷ πατρὶ καὶ ὁ πατὴρ ἐν ἐμοί· εἰ δὲ μή, διὰ τὰ ἔργα αὐτὰ πιστεύετε.

Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else believe on account of the works themselves. 

14:12 ἀμὴν ἀμὴν λέγω ὑμῖν, ὁ πιστεύων εἰς ἐμὲ τὰ ἔργα ἃ ἐγὼ ποιῶ κἀκεῖνος ποιήσει, καὶ μείζονα τούτων ποιήσει, ὅτι ἐγὼ πρὸς τὸν πατέρα πορεύομαι· 

“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father. 

14:13 καὶ ὅ τι ἂν αἰτήσητε ἐν τῷ ὀνόματί μου τοῦτο ποιήσω, ἵνα δοξασθῇ ὁ πατὴρ ἐν τῷ υἱῷ·

Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.  

14:14 ἐάν τι αἰτήσητέ με ἐν τῷ ὀνόματί μου γὼ ποιήσω.

 If you ask me[e] anything in my name, I will do it.

Sources:

-The Greek New Testament: SBL Edition. Copyright © 2010 by Society of Biblical Literature and Logos Bible Software

-ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

-LCMS Lectionary notes © 2018 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis

-Lutheran Service Book © 2006 Concordia Publishing, St. Louis

Saturday prior to Easter 4, “Good Shepherd Sunday”

 

–John 21:15 -This verse is the inspiration for the hymn “I am Jesus’ Little Lamb“{LSB 740} Three times Peter denied his Lord. Three times Jesus asks the question “Peter…do you love me more than these? Thus, the Savior asks us today, “Do you love Me?” “Do we love Jesus more than people, more than your occupation, more than things? In the case of Peter, "these things" were the tools of his trade – fishing gear.  

We are often asked to prioritize what is chiefly important in our lives. True we can take great responsibility in our work, in our freedoms, in our leisure. What takes this highest priority? What is the most important? And of course, why? Allow the words of this hymn to inspire you.

The Savior calls us to discipleship, to take up His cross and follow Him. In this Easter season, we are directed by the Savior to affirm the new life He gives us and to share with others the hope that we have in Him. Scripture reminds us “in a twinkling of an eye” we will all be gone – What shall be said of us then? May it be said of us that we remain a sheep of His fold, a lamb of His flock, a sinner of His own redeeming.

Collect for Easter 4:Almighty God, merciful Father, since You have wakened from death the Shepherd of Your sheep, grant us Your Holy Spirit that, when we hear the voice of our Shepherd, we may know Him who calls us each by name and follow where He leads; through the same Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

The Sacrament of the Altar, copyright © Ed Riojas, Higher Things

Collect for Easter 4 copyright © 2006 Lutheran Service Book, Concordia Publishing House, St, Louis

Friday prior to Easter 4 “Good Shepherd Sunday”

 

John 10:1-10 –The sheep follow the Shepherd to life eternal. In next week’s Gospel lesson Verses 7 and 9 teach that Jesus is the door to life and salvation. He is not one of a series of doors to God. In today’s world, the emphasis is upon pluralism — one religion being as valid as the next one. Christianity is considered one of many ways to God. This passage contradicts pluralism. The door to life, to God, to salvation, is Jesus. Is this not the basis for evangelism and missions to non- Christian people? It is not done in the interests of building up a monolithic religious organization in the hope of getting a monopoly, but of sharing good news of salvation through Christ. Jesus says in verse 10 that he came to bring abundant life to all people. What is life? Our existence only makes sense when Jesus is at the center.

In His resurrection He gathers us to Himself as our Good Shepherd, by whose righteousness we “have life and have it abundantly” (John 10:10). Now through other shepherds whom He calls and sends in His name, He guards and keeps us in the green pastures of His Church, leading us beside the quiet waters of our Baptism and spreading the feast of His Table before us.

Since He has called us by the Gospel to be His own dear sheep, we also “hear his voice” and “know his voice” (John 10:3–4) in the faithful preaching of His Gospel, and we follow Him by faith. When we receive His Gospel, we have the abundant life and common unity of the entire flock under one Good Shepherd, Jesus our Savior.

 Comic strip for Easter 4 John 10:22-30, copyright © 4.25.2007 James Weststein Agnus Dei Press 

Thursday prior to Easter 4 Good Shepherd Sunday

1Peter 2:19-25 – The sheep suffer like the Shepherd. In the second reading, Peter calls people straying sheep. Sheep are associated with straying and wandering off from the shepherd and the flock until they get lost and in danger of their lives. It is our nature to wander into sin, to carelessly leave the leadership of God, and to go our own way. Modern people are known for their mobility, insecurity, restlessness, a lack of roots, and loneliness.

Righteous living in the face of injustice demonstrates reliance on God’s mercy and grace. Christians who suffer for the sake of the Gospel find favor with God and they witness to His power.  

There are, of course, wounds and pains we each endure.   Separation which leads to divorce produces a broken heart. A Cancer diagnosis makes us feel weak and helpless. We may react to the news of the death of a loved one with anger. All these losses cause us to question “why did I deserve this?”

This loss. This brokenness. The separation from those we love, the hurt we experience, the pain we feel is all summed up when Paul says in his letter to the Romans, “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23)

Christ died so we could be reconciled with God.  Christ died not for the godly, but the ungodly.

The Lord calls Christians to live out their faith in the midst of suffering. Christ also suffered for you. Our sufferings pale in comparison to what Christ suffered for us. Christ first and foremost is our redeemer and savior. As you bear the cross, and in Him find strength. He is your sufficiency.

Death is the consequence for sin.  Christ’s death was for our sin yet He bore them in his body as His own.  Because of Christ’s crucifixion believers are now dead to sin so they may live new lives for Him presenting themselves to God as instruments of righteousness. Peter will declare, “By His wounds we have been healed. We find life and forgiveness because of Christ’s sufferings.

Luther has commented, “We crucified Him with our sin. We are still far from suffering what He suffered. Therefore if you are a pious Christian, you should tread in the footsteps of the Lord and have compassion on those who harm you. You should also pray for them and have asked God not to punish them. For they do far more harm to their souls than they do to your body. If you take this to heart, you will surely forget about your own sorrow and suffer gladly. He we should be mindful of the fact that formerly we, too led that find of unchristian life that they lead, but that we have now been converted through Christ.” (Luther’s Works 30:86 copyright © Concordia Publishing St. Louis Fortress Philadelphia, 1955-86 American Edition)

Thank You Lord that You truly are the Father of mercies and God of all comfort and I pray that just as You have used many of Your children to draw alongside me and accompany me through those troublous times, that You would take my life and use me as a vessel of comfort and solace to others, who are facing similar difficulties and are themselves in need of comfort and help. Use me I pray to comfort others who are suffering affliction, with the godly comfort with which I myself has been comforted by You. I ask this in the name of Jesus, 

Schnorr Von Carolsfeld woodcuts, ‘The Crucifixion of our Lord’ copyright © WELS permission granted for personal and congregational use

Wednesday prior to Easter 4 “Good Shepherd Sunday”

Acts 2:42-47 –The sheep witness to the Shepherd. In our first lesson, we have the issue of leadership in the 1st  Century Church. What are the qualifications for church leadership? The early church faced the problem of choosing seven leaders. The apostles gave the people three criteria for their selection: good reputation, good common sense, and spirituality. 

The early church was a blessed church. She had the favor of God and man. It was a growing church – new members were received daily. What was the formula for the church See verse 42. 

O Lord, Keep Your family the Church continually in the true faith that relying on the hope of Your heavenly grace that we may ever be delivered by Your mighty power; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen

Prayer for the Church copyright © 2006 Lutheran Service Book Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis  

Image for Easter 4 Series A copyright © www.agnusday.org

 

Earth Day

 

22 April each year is traditionally recognized as Earth Day in which we are encouraged to be good stewards of the resources the LORD has given to us. The charge given to Adam and Eve was to be caretakers of the planet and all of its natural resources. 

As Christians Earth Day should reminds us that the LORD has created this vast universe for us to thrive and enjoy of the first article of the Apostles' Creed teaches.  I believe in God the Father Almighty, maker of heave and and earth.  

What does this mean? I believe that God has made me and all creatures; that He has given me my body and soul, eyes, ears, and all my members, my reason and all my senses, and still takes care of them. He also gives me clothing and shoes, food and drink, house and home, wife and children, land, animals, and all I have. He richly and daily provides me with all that I need to support this body and life. He defends me against all danger and guards and protects me from all evil. All this He does only out of fatherly, divine goodness and mercy, without any merit or worthiness in me. For all this it is my duty to thank and praise, serve and obey Him

The first article of the Apostles' Creed declares that Christians believe, teach and confess that the one, true God is none other than the One who has made the heavens and the earth, and everything in them. But more than that, He is our Father who provides and cares for us as a father cares for his beloved children.

We believe that He has made us and has given us all the good things we have in this life. This He has done purely out of the love He has for us as our Father. He not only gives us life, He also defends us, guards us, and protects us during this life, so that we will join Him in heaven for all eternity. There is nothing in us that makes us worthy of the good things God gives us. It is all from His love as a father. How glorious it is to know that the same God who created heaven and earth also created each one us and cares for us personally.

A prayer for agriculture:  Almighty God, You bless the earth to make it fruitful, bringing forth in abundance whatever is needed for the support of our lives. Prosper, we implore you, the work of farmers, and grant us seasonable weather that we may gather the fruits of the earth and proclaim your goodness with thanksgiving; through Jesus Christ our LORD.  

Sources: Luther's Small Catechism and Collect for Agriculture  Lutheran Service Book copyright 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis 

Tuesday prior to Easter 4 “Good Shepherd Sunday”

 

– Psalm 23:4-6 The Psalm portion for this coming week is the much-loved Shepherd Psalm. The benefits of have Jesus as our Shepherd-King is that both goodness and love will literally pursue us. We are given the hope and promise of life with God eternally. We will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Our future has been guaranteed. Because the Shepherd-King Jesus lives forever, we have the hope and guarantee of dwelling with Christ throughout the years of our life.

Notice how highly David magnifies the Lord. He recalls how gracious God has been. Consider what the Lord has bestowed on him (v. 5): "Thou preparest a table before me;”

David says in essence: “Lord, You have provided me with everything pertaining both to life and godliness.” All things needed for both the body as well as the soul are given by the Shepherd’s caring hand.  His benefits are not only for this life they spread well into eternity.  Such a bountiful benefactor is God to all His people; and because these blessings come from God David is called upon to utter thanks for His great goodness.  David acknowledges two realities:

That he had food conveniently given to him; a table spread, a cup filled, meat for his hunger, drink for his thirst. What is it that Christ has given to you? Luther explains in the explanation to the 1st Article of the Apostles Creed:

“I believe that God has made me and all creatures; that He has given me my body and soul, eyes, ears, and all my members, my reason, and all my senses, and still preserves them; also, clothing and shoes, meat and drink, house and home, wife and children, fields, cattle, and all my goods; that He richly and daily provides me with all that I need to support this body and life, that He protects me from all danger, and guards  and preserves me from all evil; and all this out of pure, fatherly, divine goodness and mercy, without any merit or worthiness in me; for all which I owe it to Him to thank, praise, serve, and obey Him. This is most certainly true.”

David acknowledges that the Shepherd had this table carefully and readily provided for him. His table was not spread with any thing that came haphazardly; rather God prepared everything for him. The Shepherd provided for all of his needs and prepared it before him.

Under the heading “daily bread” Luther lists just some of the gifts and blessings the Good Shepherd provides for us each and every day:

What is meant by daily bread? —Everything that belongs to the support and wants of the body, such as meat, drink, clothing, shoes, house, home, field, cattle, money, goods, a pious spouse, pious children, pious servants, pious and faithful rulers, good government, good weather, peace, health, discipline, honor, good friends, faithful neighbors, and the like.”

One question many ask during times of uncertainty is simply, “how will we get thought this?”  We get through all this together. The Lord does provide but He does it through means – He does it through you. As you watch out for those in your circle; especially those closest to you family, neighbors, friends. May you continue to be the hands, the feet, the fingers and toes of Jesus and He provides through your acts of mercy and charity.

Lord God, You have called Your servants to ventures of which we cannot always see the ending, by paths as yet untrodden, through perils unknown. Gove us faith to go out with good courage, not knowing where we go but only that Your hand is leading us and Your love supporting us; through Jesus Christ, Your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen

 _______________________

Image of the Lost Sheep copyright © Ed Riojas, Higher Things

Image for Easter 4 series A copyright © www.agnusday.org

Collect from Lutheran Service Book copyright © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis

Monday prior to Easter 4 “Good Shepherd Sunday”

 

Though he has risen in glory and is soon to ascend to the Father, Christ continues with us as a shepherd on earth, a shepherd who knows, cares, leads, and protects his sheep. Though risen in glory and absent in the body, Jesus continues as an abiding presence to care for his people. He is the good shepherd who died for his sheep to rescue them from the wolves. His resurrection confirms his victory and he continues to live as the shepherd of our souls.

 – Psalm 23:1-3 The Antiphon for this coming  Sunday’s Introit is taken from Vs.1, “The Lord’s my shepherd I shall not want.” The term “Shepherd” is a widely used metaphor used for Kings. David as King acknowledges that the Lord is his Shepherd-King. Jesus as the shepherd of His people is expressed most plainly in our Gospel lesson for this coming week. John 10:1-10

By these words David illustrates God's care of his people; and to this our Savior refers to Himself when He says, “I am the shepherd of the sheep; the good shepherd,” (John. 10:11). He is the shepherd of Israel, and of the whole church in general: “Oh, give ear, Shepherd of Israel, Thou who dost lead Joseph like a flock; Thou who art enthroned {above} the cherubim, shine forth!” (NAS Psalm 80:1), He is the shepherd of every particular believer; even the meanest is not below His awareness, “Like a shepherd He will tend His flock, in His arm He will gather the lambs, and carry {them} in His bosom; He will gently lead the nursing {ewes.}” (NAS Isaiah. 40:11).

We are sheep who have gone astray. Lost in the rebellion of sin we have become wayward sheep. Isaiah the prophet explains in Isaiah 53:6 “All of us like sheep have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; but the LORD has caused the iniquity of us all to fall on Him.”

As the Good Shepherd Jesus rescues the sheep. He takes them into His fold, and then takes care of them, protects them, and provides for them, with more care and devotion than any shepherd can. He makes it his business to keep the flock.  Thus, we pray in Luther’s Morning and Evening prayers: “into Thy hands I commend myself {placing} my body and soul and all things {into Your care...}”

Sheep cannot do one thing to provide for themselves. They need a shepherd who will provide for them. Of themselves, they can do nothing. They are lost, confused and would soon be destroyed without Him. Thus the Good Shepherd will provide for all that we need to support our body and life; both physical but especially spiritual necessities.

When the Christian considers that God is his shepherd, he can boldly say, “I shall not want!” We need not fear. We don’t have to worry about starving; God upon finding us supplies all our needs. We have Him as our feeder.

More is implied than is expressed in this little phrase. Not only can David say: “I shall not want”, but also, "I shall be supplied with whatever I need. If I have not everything I desire, I may conclude it is either not fit for me or not good for me currently or I shall have it in due time."

David, a king of his own right acknowledges that the Lord is his Shepherd-King. Jesus, who suffered and died on Calvary’s cross, has become our good shepherd. We walk with Him as we observe His Passion. We need not worry about being in want. To the contrary, we will enjoy goodness and mercy each day of our lives. As we begin the discipline of Lent walk with the Good Shepherd. -He guides and directs your path.

A Prayer for Agriculture as another planting season is upon us: Almighty God, You blessed the earth to make it fruitful, bringing forth in abundance whatever is needed for the support of our lives. Prosper; we implore You, the work of farmers, especially in this planting season. Grant them seasonable weather that they may gather in the fruits of the earth and thus proclaim Your goodness. May we see by this noble vocation that by Your aid we are helping to feed the world and cause all who give thanks over their food to treat those who produce it with honor and respect.

___________________

Image of the Lost Sheep copyright © Ed Riojas, Higher Things

Image for Easter 4 copyright © www.agnusday.org 

Collect for Agriculture, Lutheran Service Book copyright © 2206 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis