Pr. DFD : May 2026

Friday, May 22, 2026

Saturday prior to Pentecost

The majestic Hymn of the Day, Come, Holy Ghost, God and Lord (LSB #497), was written by Martin Luther. In addition to writing catechism hymns for each of the six chief parts of Christian doctrine, Luther wrote this one to help remember the third article of the Apostles’ Creed. The chief teaching of the Christian faith—the doctrine of salvation by faith rather than works—is clearly proclaimed throughout this great hymn. Sing it confidently and boldly. The Holy Spirit has brought you to faith, and by Word and Sacrament, He will continue to keep you in the one true faith.

This chorale is based on the work of the third Person of the Holy Trinity, the Holy Spirit, who is expressly celebrated on the Day of Pentecost. The following shows connections between each of the four statements of Luther’s meaning of the Third Article of the Apostles’ Creed and portions of each stanza of “Come, Holy Ghost, God and Lord.”

Luther writes in his Table Talk: “The hymn ‘Come Holy Ghost, God and Lord,’ was composed by the Holy Ghost himself, both words and music.” Luther crafted the version known today by polishing the original German stanza and also composing two additional stanzas to fit masterfully with the first.

Ø I believe that I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him; but the Holy Spirit has called me by the Gospel, enlightened me with His gifts, sanctified and kept me in the true faith.

“With all Your graces now outpoured on each believer’s mind and heart” (stanza 1)

Ø In the same way He calls, gathers, enlightens, and sanctifies the whole Christian church on earth, and keeps it with Jesus Christ in the one true faith.

“Lord, by the brightness of Your light in holy faith Your Church unite” (stanza 1)

“Let none but Christ our master be that we in living faith abide, in Him, our Lord, with all our might confide.” (stanza 2)

Ø In this Christian church He daily and richly forgives all my sins and the sins of all believers.

“From every error keep us free” (stanza 2)

Ø On the Last Day He will raise me and all the dead, and give eternal life to me and all believers in Christ.

“That bravely here we may contend, through life and death to You, our Lord, ascend.” (stanza 3)

As mentioned earlier that the best hymns also teach the Christian faith, it is worth noting that this chorale actually predates the publication of Luther’s Small Catechism (1529). Thanks be to God for this chorale’s expression of our Lutheran faith and His work through the third Person of the Holy Trinity!

O God, who gave Your Holy Spirit to the apostles, grant us that same Spirit that we may live in faith and abide in peace; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit now and forever. Amen

https://lutheranreformation.org/worship/come-holy-ghost-god-lord/

Thursday, May 21, 2026

Friday prior to Pentecost

John 7:37–39—Jesus foretells the Day of Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit will be fully poured out upon the Church, causing living waters to flow out from their hearts, that is, all believers will be empowered to testify to the forgiveness of sins, life, and salvation which comes through Jesus Christ alone.

From His open heart, our crucified and risen Lord pours out His Holy Spirit in “rivers of living water” (John 7:38) and invites everyone who thirsts to come to Him and drink freely (John 7:37). Through this life-giving work of the Holy Spirit, we hear the gospel message “telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God” (Acts 2:11) that “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” (Acts 2:21).

Although not mentioned often in the New Testament, the Festival of Tabernacles was one of the “big three” annual festivals (along with Passover and Pentecost) for which adult Jewish males were expected to make the pilgrimage to Jerusalem, and it was generally the most joyous and popular of the three. Originally a harvest celebration, by the time of Jesus it had also taken on the significance of remembering God’s provision for the people of Israel during their wilderness wanderings.

God provided water for the Israelites in the wilderness as well, but its thirst-quenching effects were also temporary. Here, at this festival that celebrates God’s provision in the wilderness, Jesus offers the living water that quenches all thirst and is a source of life eternal. John adds a note of explanation, so that no one may miss the significance: “Now he said this about the Spirit, which believers in him were yet to receive, for as yet there was no Spirit, because Jesus was not yet glorified.” (7:39)

This “Paraclete” or “Spirit of truth” will teach them, remind them of all that Jesus has said to them, and guide them into all truth (14:26; 16:12-14). The Spirit will be the abiding presence of Jesus with his disciples, continuing his work in and through them. This promise is fulfilled on the evening of Easter Sunday, when the risen Jesus comes to his disciples, breathes into them the Holy Spirit, and sends them out in mission. (20:19-23)

Jesus speaks of this promise at the Festival of Tabernacles -- the promise fulfilled at Passover/ Easter according to John, or at Pentecost according to Luke-Acts.

John interprets the Jewish festivals anew in light of God’s revelation in Christ. All that the festivals celebrate -- the deliverance, presence, and provision of God -- find new significance in God’s sending of the Son to tabernacle among us, and sending of the Spirit to abide with us forever, so that rivers of living water may flow from within us to a thirsty world.

Almighty and ever-living God, You fulfilled Your promise by sending the gift of the Holy Spirit to unite disciples of all nations in the cross and resurrection of Your Son, Jesus Christ. By the preaching of the Gospel spread this gift to the ends of the earth; through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

https://www.workingpreacher.org/preaching.aspx?commentary_id=2046

Wednesday, May 20, 2026

Thursday prior to Pentecost

Acts 2:1–21— Our risen Lord Jesus poured out His Holy Spirit at the Feast of Pentecost—the fiftieth day and the “Eighth Sunday” of Easter. When “a sound like a mighty rushing wind” and “tongues as of fire appeared” and rested on each of the twelve Apostles, “they were all filled with the Holy Spirit” and proclaimed “the mighty works of God.” The Lord Jesus grants this same Spirit to His Church on earth to proclaim Him glorified on the cross and risen victorious from the grave for us sinners.

The Epistle reading for the Day of Pentecost is, as you might imagine, the account of the giving of the Holy Spirit on the first Day of Pentecost, and the establishment of the New Testament Church in mission. This special gift was given to the disciples in the early Church for two main reasons: to testify that these men were speaking by the authority of God (for only God could grant such a gift in fulfillment of prophecy), and in order to proclaim the Word of God to people of many different tongues. Since the New Testament had not been written down yet, it also could not be translated yet. In our day, the written Word of God, the Bible, fulfills both these purposes, delivering the truth of God in a language which we can understand.

In his explanation to the third article of the Apostles’ Creed Luther reminds us: “I believe that I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him; but the Holy Spirit has called me by the Gospel, enlightened me with His gifts, sanctified and kept me in the true faith. In the same way He calls, gathers, enlightens, and sanctifies the whole Christian church on earth, and keeps it with Jesus Christ in the one true faith. In this Christian church He daily and richly forgives all my sins and the sins of all believers. On the Last Day He will raise me and all the dead, and give eternal life to me and all believers in Christ.”

Pentecost is the birthday of missions. These are our marching orders – to get the message out and to keep the message straight. As you are given the opportunity gossip the gospel to your family, neighbors and community.

Collect for the Holy Spirit: Lord God, heavenly Father, let Your Holy Spirit dwell in us that He may enlighten and lead us into all truth and evermore defend us from all adversities; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

Tuesday, May 19, 2026

Wednesday prior to Pentecost

Numbers 11:24–30 is the Old Testament lesson for this coming Sunday the Feast of Pentecost—Because the task of caring for the children of Israel was overwhelming, the Lord instructed Moses to appoint seventy men as elders to assist him. For some unknown reason, two of them, Eldad and Medad, failed to present themselves at the tabernacle for commissioning. Yet, the Spirit rested upon them, also. Some of the others thought that they should be stopped from prophesying, proclaiming the Word of the Lord.

Moses exclaims, “Would that all the LORD’s people were prophets, that the LORD would put his Spirit on them!” Though pastors are appointed to fulfill certain tasks in the Lord’s Church, all Christians are called upon to give witness to the hope that is in them (See 1 Peter 3:15) by proclaiming the Word of God, as opportunities are presented.

Now is an excellent time for you to give witness to the hope that is in you. Especially now, Christians have something people desperately need and many are missing: hope. Now, of all times, we must be prepared to give an answer to anyone and everyone who asks about the hope that is in us.

To offer hope we need to engage with others in significant conversation. – Significant discussion involves not only speaking but also listening. This is where you can do your part.

Listening is half, yet an integral and essential part of a successful conversation. We’ve all experienced at some time an exchange that was limited to, “Let’s talk about me and then let’s talk about me some more.” When you take turns to talk, everyone feels heard. This is great communication. Empathic listening—understanding your neighbor fully, rather than seeing what they talk about through your own point of view is critical. The Bible emphasizes the importance of listening. James instructs believers to be “quick to listen and slow to speak.” -James 1:19

Listening is essential to evangelism and witness. Listening is like a stethoscope to the human heart. We can find out what is happening inside the heart of a person by simply listening—an invaluable tool when sharing Christ. Ask the Lord to help you to become a better and much more engaged listener.

It might take some time before people feel comfortable around others. Some are eager to move on and move forward. Become proactive in developing good listening skills. Listen to their story. And when the opportunity arrives don’t be afraid to give witness to the hope that is in you.

Lord, open my ears and my heart to the needs of others around me. As we engage in significant conversation may I truly listen and become empathetic. Only then can I effectively speak of the hope to which we have been called.

Tuesday prior to Pentecost

Ascension

Pentecost

Five days ago, we celebrated the Ascension of our Lord. In five days, we will gather to celebrate the feast day of Pentecost. So today, the “Five Words for Today” simply are: “It stinks to be me!” How true! As Pr. Daniel May is wont to remind us “we’re living in a broken world outside of Eden.”

Feelings of hopelessness have become a product of our times. We live with such rapid changes all around. There are family issues, jobs that are threatened, communities in crisis, commodities susceptible to manipulation, economic situations and market issues that are out of our control, beyond our grasp. Add to these social and societal shifts we cannot easily understand, and because so much is beyond our grip we can feel the sense that we too are losing control.

Amidst this trouble and strife, this chaos and confusion the Savior comes to us with His Word of comfort and promise. His five words, in fact, the very last five words He ever spoke on this planet are these: “I am with you always!” That’s not an idle wish. It’s a promise we know by faith.

Jesus understands our circumstance and promises to do something about our sorry lot. He promises us the Counselor, for our aid and comfort. Jesus promises that the Holy Spirit will come and appears on our behalf to be a mediator, and intercessor, and a genuine helper.

The Savior delivered His word of truth when He said from the cross: “It is finished!” He further confirmed that Word in you when He called you by the Gospel in your baptism and today through the power of that same word says to you: “I am with you always!”

Finally, another five words to consider today. “This is for my good.” The Savior has promised to order our days and direct our path. Because Jesus is with us, we can face each day, even when it stinks to be me, for the Savior is working all things for our good.

“Almighty and eternal God, Your Son our Savior is withy You in eternal glory. Give us faith to see that true to His promise, He is among us still and will be with us to the end of time.”

Images
The Ascension © Ed Riojas Higher Things
The First Pentecost woodcut by Julius Schnoor von Carolsfeld © WELS permission granted for personal and congregational use

Monday, May 18, 2026

Tuesday prior to Pentecost

Psalm 25:1–15—This psalm of David makes an excellent prayer for daily use. It first contrasts godly (the one who trusts in God) with the ungodly. In verses 4–11, we consider our sins, especially as contrasted with the righteousness of God, and pray for forgiveness and spiritual renewal, trusting in the mercy and steadfast love of the Lord.

Verses 12–15 deal with sanctification—godly living—asking for guidance and instruction. The closing verses of the psalm, though not appointed for next week’s reading, brings the plea full circle, as, once again, we pray for deliverance from suffering and from persecution by our foes, those who are opposed to the Lord and to those faithful to the Lord.

By means of instruction the Psalmist reminds us of a simple yet powerful aspect of our faith – we receive mercy; God’s undeserved compassion and forgiveness. God does not require us to earn His forgiveness or gifts. He teaches and leads the humble; those not esteemed by the world. Those who live by faith receive the blessings of God’s steadfast love and faithfulness. Faith does not earn these blessings but receives them.

In difficult economic times, how much we want to hear the promise that God will make us abundantly prosperous in our undertakings and in the fruit of our bodies, livestock, and soil. (Deuteronomy 30:9) No need for another stimulus package. A God-ensured economic recovery must surely be right around the corner. Yet, as a response to this reading, Psalm 25 leads us to pause and contemplate what it means to prosper in God.

Psalm 25:1-10 is not a heartfelt expression of gratitude for a windfall, but a heartfelt expression of trust in God. "The first ten verses of the psalm, which make up the present lection, constitute, at root, a theological reflection and heartfelt plea rising out of that reflection."[1]

In fact, rather than a rousing chorus of "Happy Days Are Here Again," these verses are an introit to lament and an expression of the trust that makes it possible to complain to God. The psalmist asks God for instruction on how to avoid shame and disgrace and then provides instruction of those who wait on the Lord.

"To you, O Lord, I lift my soul," the psalmist declares (25:1). Anyone who has regularly sung Psalm 141 as part of Vespers or Evening Prayer will find in these simple words a profound description of prayer. To lift up one's soul to God is shorthand for lifting up one's hands in an outstretched position in prayer. The gesture signifies holding one's conscious identity, one's life, outstretched to God in sole and complete dependence upon God and God's help. To pray, "To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul" (25:1) "is a psalmic synonym for 'In you I trust' (verse 2) ... and 'I wait for you' (verses 3-5, 21)."[2]

To prosper in God is to own and acknowledge one's utter dependence upon God. Deserving has nothing to do with it.

Lord our God, you show us your ways of compassion and love and you spare sinners. Remember not our sins; relieve our misery; satisfy the longing of your people. And fulfill all our hop for eternal peace through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.[3]

[1] Roger E. Van Harn and Brent A. Strawn (eds.), Psalms for Preaching and Worship: A Lectionary Commentary (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2009), 109.

[2] James Luther Mays, Psalms, Interpretation, a Bible Commentary for Teaching and Preaching (Louisville: Westminster John Knox, 1994), 124-125.

https://www.workingpreacher.org/preaching.aspx?commentary_id=618

Image: “The Crucifixion” Schnorr Von Carolsfeld woodcuts © WELS permission granted for personal and congregational use

Sunday, May 17, 2026

Monday prior to Pentecost

[1]

Psalm 104:24, 27–28, 30; —On the Day of Pentecost, we focus our attention on the Holy Spirit and His role in establishing the Mission activity of the Christian Church. The antiphon read during the Introit on the Day of Pentecost is a portion of an ancient prayer to the Holy Spirit: “Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of the faithful, and kindle in them the fire of Your love.”

Psalm 104 is a hymn of praise celebrating the wonders of God’s creation. But it is careful to direct our attention not so much to the creation, but to the Creator. The Lord did not merely set the world into motion and then take His hands off the wheel. He continues to nurture and preserve all He has made. Luther in his Large Catechism explains, “He causes all created things to serve for the use and necessities of life.” (LC II, 14) In the explanation to the First Article of the Apostles’ Creed Luther simply explains, “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.”

All around us, seeds sown into the ground just a few weeks ago are beginning to sprout. We anticipate an abundant harvest. The Lord’s abundant power of creation is seen each spring as we witness life flourishing around us. The Lord has promised to preserve and sustain the earth. “While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night, shall not cease.” - Genesis 8:22

There seems to always be a guarantee in life that change will happen. Change is something we tend to fear and become anxious about because we do not feel in control of life. The Psalmist assures us that the Lord is our sure defense. As He preserves you He will safeguard your life even in these unprecedented times.

The portion of the psalm used in the Introit proclaims that the Holy Spirit; whom, with the Father and the Son, was involved in the creation, especially of man, into whose nostrils God breathed the breath (Spirit) of life.

A Prayer for Agriculture: 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.[2]

Saturday, May 16, 2026

Pentecost study notes

Numbers 11:24–30

Acts 2:1–21

John 7:37–39

The Risen Lord Jesus Pours Out the Holy Spirit

The Lord took “some of the Spirit” that was on Moses “and put it on the seventy elders” of Israel (Num. 11:25), and they “prophesied in the camp” (Num. 11:26). In the same way, our risen Lord Jesus poured out His Holy Spirit at the Feast of Pentecost — the 50th day and the “Eighth Sunday” of Easter. When “a sound like a mighty rushing wind” and “tongues as of fire appeared” and rested on each of the 12 apostles, “they were all filled with the Holy Spirit” and proclaimed “the mighty works of God” (Acts 2:2–4, 11). The Lord Jesus grants this same Spirit to His Church on earth to proclaim Him glorified on the cross and risen victorious from the grave for us sinners. From His open heart, our crucified and risen Lord pours out His Holy Spirit in “rivers of living water” (John 7:38) and invites everyone who thirsts to come to Him and drink freely (John 7:37). Through this life-giving work of the Holy Spirit, we hear our pastors “telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God” (Acts 2:11) and “everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Acts 2:21).

John 7:37–39

Rivers of Living Water

John 7:37

Ἐν δὲ τῇ ἐσχάτῃ ἡμέρᾳ τῇ μεγάλῃ τῆς ἑορτῆς εἱστήκει ὁ Ἰησοῦς, καὶ ἔκραξεν λέγων· Ἐάν τις διψᾷ ἐρχέσθω πρός με καὶ πινέτω.

On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink.

John 7:38

ὁ πιστεύων εἰς ἐμέ, καθὼς εἶπεν ἡ γραφή, ποταμοὶ ἐκ τῆς κοιλίας αὐτοῦ ῥεύσουσιν ὕδατος ζῶντος.

Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’”

John 7:39

οῦτο δὲ εἶπεν περὶ τοῦ πνεύματος οὗ ἔμελλον λαμβάνειν οἱ [b]πιστεύσαντες εἰς αὐτόν· οὔπω γὰρ ἦν [c]πνεῦμα, ὅτι Ἰησοῦς οὐδέπω ἐδοξάσθη.

Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.

Friday, May 15, 2026

Saturday prior to Easter 7

Acts 2:21 – “And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

This verse is the inspiration for the hymn, “Christ is the World’s Redeemer“{LSB 539}. The suggested hymn for this week reminds us that Jesus is the Savior of the world. Having examined the realities of Easter, we now go out into the world as witnesses of the Savior. This is what living the faith means. Expressing what those 1^st Century disciples proclaimed, “We are witnesses to these things.” – Luke 24:48; Acts 5:32; 10:39;

This is the bridge between the Easter appearance of Christ to His disciples and the coming of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost; the birthday of missions. “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." Acts 1:8

From the preamble of our parish mission statement: “The birthday of Missions occurred on the day of Pentecost circa AD 30 in the city of Jerusalem. On February 25, 1838, Zion-Friedheim Lutheran Church was chartered to be a House of Peace, a Haven of Hope for those who suffer and a Harbor of Light in this sin-darkened world. As followers of Jesus, we are Christ’s ambassadors – commissioned by Him who has reconciled the world to Himself to be salt and light in this world.”

Collect for Easter 7 - O King of glory, Lord of hosts, uplifted in triumph far above all heavens, leave us not without consolation but send us the Spirit of truth whom You promised from the Father; for You live and reign with Him and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

For Agriculture - 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.

An Evening Collect for Eastertide – Abide with us, Lord, for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent. Abide with us and with Your whole Church. Abide with us in the end of the day, in the end of our life, in the end of the world. Abide with us with Your grace and goodness, with Your Holy Word and sacrament, with Your strength and blessing. Abide with us when the night of affliction and temptation comes upon us, the night of fear and despair when death shall come. Abide with us and with all the faithful through time and eternity.

Thursday, May 14, 2026

Friday prior to Easter 7

Psalm 47 – This Psalm is suggested for the week of Ascension. The Psalmist gives praise for the kingship of the Lord and the universal reign of the God of Abraham. It is seen as a prophecy of Christ who will rise up to be king of the entire earth through the preaching of the Gospel.

This promised salvation is for all nations and has been carried out in time and history by His Son, who became man precisely to be “lifted up” on the cross and so “draw all people” to Himself.

“And Jesus answered them, ‘The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified’.” -John 12:23

The Father sent His Son into the world, in the likeness of our sin and death, and lifted Him up on the pole of the cross, that whoever looks to Him in faith “may have eternal life” (John 3:14–16).

By His cross, “the light has come into the world,” not for condemnation, but “that the world might be saved through him” (John 3:17–19). While we “were dead in the trespasses and sins” in which we once lived (Ephesians 2:1), God loved us, calling us to repentance and raising us up with Christ to live “with him in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 2:4–6)

Jesus comes to be lifted up in glory on the cross in order to cast out “the ruler of this world” and draw all people to Himself

Today we sing praise to our God for He is the King of all the earth, which He has redeemed through His Son.

Almighty God, graciously behold this Your family for whom our Lord Jesus Christ was willing to be betrayed and delivered into the hands of sinful men to suffer death upon the cross; through the same Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

Wednesday, May 13, 2026

Thursday prior to Easter 7

John 17:1-11 – Christians in the world are prayed for. Before His departure, Jesus prays for His disciples.

This lesson, the Gospel for this coming Sunday, is a part of Christ’s high priestly prayer, the end of His farewell discourse at the Last Supper begun in chapter 13. It is a pray where Jesus prays for His disciples left in the world. The hour of His departure has come. He reports to the Father that He has accomplished the work He was sent to do.

Jesus says, “The hour has come.” It is the hour of death, and the hour of glory. This is the hour for which Jesus worked, the hour for which he came to earth. Who things of his hour of death as the hour of glory? In Jesus’ case his death is a glory by virtue of the atoning power of His death to take away the sins of the world. In His death the Father redeemed and reconciled His children. The death of Jesus was a victory for the Father.

Today is Ascension Day forty days after Easter. It is the day the Savior returned to the Father to be received by Him. It is a day in which we remember that this same Ascended Lord will return on the Last Great Day to receive us into His glory. We are reminded of that great spiritual which says, “Soon and very soon, we shall see the king!”

The Ascension has certain important truths to be proclaimed:

Ø It is the final exaltation of Jesus as Lord of Lords.

Ø It is the universal accessibility of Jesus

Ø It is the coming of age of the Christian in responsibility

Ø It is the total lordship of Jesus over all creation

A Prayer for Ascension –Almighty God, as Your only-begotten Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, ascended into the heavens, so may we also ascend in heart and mind and continually dwell there with Him, who lives, and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Tuesday, May 12, 2026

Wednesday prior to Easter 7

1 Peter 4:12-19; 5:6-11 – Christians in the world share Christ’s sufferings. Christians are to rejoice over the privilege of sharing Christ’s suffering, and, after suffering, God will restore and strengthen them. The exhortations to the newly baptized are continued in this passage. They are warned of impending persecution for being Christians, for at this time it was a crime to be a Christian. They are not to be surprised when suffering comes, but to rejoice that they suffer as Jesus did. When suffering comes, the new Christians are to be humble, trust in God’s care, be on guard against temptation, and to remember that suffering is over and God will strengthen them. They are to take comfort in the fact that suffering is experienced by the whole church.

Ask 25 people what it means to be a Christian, a follower of Jesus, and you’ll get a wide range of answers, most of them-I’d guess-centering around some form of prayer, the attempt at keeping the Commandments, and living a “good” life.

The one word you won’t hear is “persecution,” because “persecution” means personal suffering, unpopularity, and no doubt being “un-friended” on social media, which I suppose is the modern-day equivalent of beheading.

No Christian wants to be persecuted, yet all Christians make the claim inherent in what they call themselves, to be followers of Jesus, and it is Jesus who makes no bones about telling his disciples, that is those who truly follow him, that persecution is a given. You see it in Sunday's Gospel and Epistle lessons: you’ll be out of the synagogue, people will kill you believing they are offering God a sacrifice.

In 1 Peter 4, we read that suffering as a Christian is something to be cherished, moreover, that in his/her suffering, he should glorify God! Earlier on in John’s Gospel he tells his disciples that the world hates you, because it hated Christ; it will persecute you, because it persecuted Christ. Expect to be crucified, because your master was crucified and a servant is not greater than his/her master.

You’ll notice that this Sunday doesn’t have the same musical/liturgical bounce in its step as other Sundays have had. There was hardly a trace of pain in the Sundays leading up to this day, there were no tears shed as Christ ascended into heaven, in fact we rejoiced that our human nature too ascended with him!

On Easter 7, known as "Exaudy Sunday," there’s no “Christ is risen” high-fiving going on, in fact if you look at the introit, verse and collect, in addition to the readings, you’ll see the voices raised are pleas for God “to listen,” hence the term ‘exaudio,’ the Latin name that lends its name to this Sunday.

Persecution? Not among us, save for what we often do to each other. None of this, not a single thing, bears even the slightest resemblance to anything scriptural, let alone St. Peter’s words in this Sunday’s Epistle, whose call to be “self-controlled and sober-minded” is met with drooping eyelids, a yawn, and the notion that surely St. Peter meant the person sitting beside you.

A prayer for steadfast faith: Almighty God, our heavenly Father, because of Your tender love toward us sinners You have given us Your Son that, believing in Him, we might have everlasting life. Continue to grant us Your Holy Spirit that we may remain steadfast in the faith to the end and finally come to love everlasting; through Jesus Christ, our Lord.

From text notes in preparation for Easter 7

Monday, May 11, 2026

Tuesday prior to Easter 7

Easter 7 strands as a bridge between the Ascension of our Lord – His return back to the Father’s right hand and the sending of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost.

Today’s reading comes from Acts 1:12—26 – Christians in the world pray for the Spirit.

At His ascension, Jesus promised to send the Spirit to the disciples. The risen Lord meets with His eleven disciples a short distance from Jerusalem where before ascending to His Father, He promises them the Spirit who will give them power to witness throughout the world. Then they returned to an upper room in Jerusalem to pray. With the disciples are Jesus’ brothers and mother. This is Mary’s last appearance in the New Testament — she is seen among the first Christians praying and waiting for the Spirit.

The apostolic witness of Jesus’ cross and resurrection gathers disciples together “with one accord” into the one Body of Christ; “Devoting themselves to prayer.” They wait upon the Lord in “the upper room” the very place of His Holy Supper.

Interesting, the last mention of Joseph (Jesus’ earthly guardian) we find in Scripture is in the temple when Jesus was twelve years old. The last reference concerning Mary is mentioned here. Both Joseph and his bride Mary find themselves engaged in worship. Both find themselves in a sacred space, worshipping together with fellow believers.

As the body of Christ we stand ready to serve. To that end spend each day with your Savior in prayer. Reach out to your sisters and brothers in Christ. Attend to the needs of others as you are able. Assist as you can. Serve others as Christ has cared for you.

Merciful God, hear our fervent prayer for all who suffer from the corona-virus. May those who are infected receive the proper treatment and the comfort of Your healing presence. Look with compassion on all who suffer because of this pandemic; relieve the pain of the sick; give strength to those who care for them. May their caregivers, families and neighbors be shielded from the onslaught of this disease.

Give solace to those who grieve the loss of loved ones. Protect and guide those who strive to find a cure, that their work may conquer the disease and restore communities to wholeness and health. Help us to rise above fear. We ask all this through the merits and mercies of Christ our Savior.

Grant, Lord, that the course of this world may be so governed by Your direction that Your church may rejoice in serving You in godly peace and quietness;

Sunday, May 10, 2026

Monday prior to Easter 7

[1]

This coming week will be the last Sunday in Easter. Easter 7 serves as a bridge between Christ’s glorious Ascension and Pentecost. We look back to the Ascension or forward to Pentecost.

As smoke is driven away, so you shall drive them away; as wax melts before fire, so the wicked shall perish before God! – Psalm 68:2

Psalm 68:1-10 - This is the Psalm suggested for the last Sunday in Easter. It appears to be an order of service for procession to the temple in Jerusalem. The Lord has brought salvation to Israel; Vv. 1-6 in the Exodus, Vv. 7-10 and the wilderness wanderings. Vv.11-14 in conquest of the Promised Land.

Throughout their pilgrimage and sojourn the Lord was directing them. He continues to guide and lead you acting on behalf of His people.

As David reflects on the Lord’s past dealings with His people he reminds us that God has always been marching down the ages of time; progressing in a steady and unswerving stride toward His goal.

No power on earth can stop Him. We tend to stew and fret when things don’t go our way. In actuality God is in control and steering the course of time toward His ultimate fulfillment; the sure and certain return of Christ.

His enemies are like smoke driven by the wind, which in time will totally disappear. What chance does a puff of smoke have of establishing its presence before a driving wind? What chance does wax have of maintaining its shape before the flames of the furnace? What chance does Israel’s foes have before a God who is marching steadily to Zion? In short, the Lord of the universe has promised to order your days and direct your path.

David praised God for His direction and His protection. As witness God’s hand of direction and protection in your life your response should be to praise Him.

A prayer for guidance in our calling: Lord God, You have called Your servants to ventures of which we cannot see the ending, by paths as yet untrodden, through perils unknown. Give us faith to go out with good courage, not knowing where we go but on that Your hand is leading us and Your love supporting us; through Jesus Christ, our Lord.[2]

Saturday, May 9, 2026

Easter 7 Series A study notes

Acts 1:12–26

1 Peter 4:12–19; 5:6–11

John 17:1–11

Our Lord Jesus Is with Us in the Upper Room of His Church on Earth

On the night when He was betrayed, our Lord Jesus prayed for His apostles and His Church on earth. “The hour” had come when the Father would glorify His Son by the cross (John 17:1). Through the shedding of His blood, He would bring forgiveness for the sins of the world, and in His resurrection and ascension He would unite all Christians with the Father “that they may be one” with God (John 17:11). He manifested His name to the apostles and gave them the words of the Father to speak in His name. The apostolic witness of His cross and resurrection (Acts 1:21–22) gathers disciples together “with one accord” into the one Body of Christ (Acts 1:14). “Devoting themselves to prayer,” they wait upon the Lord in “the upper room” (Acts 1:13–14), the place of His Holy Supper. Strengthened by the Gospel, Christians bear the cross of Christ in patience and peace, rejoicing to share in His suffering, in order that they “may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed” (1 Peter 4:13).

The one word you won’t hear is “persecution,” because “persecution” means personal suffering, unpopularity, and no doubt being “un-friended” on social media, which I suppose is the modern-day equivalent of beheading.

On Easter 7 "Exaudy Sunday" there’s no “Christ is risen” high-fiving going on, in fact if you look at the introit, verse and collect, in addition to the readings, you’ll see the voices raised are pleas for God “to listen,” exaudio, the Latin name that lends its name to this Sunday.

Persecution? Not among us, save for what we do to each other. None of this, not a single thing, bears even the slightest resemblance to anything scriptural, let alone St. Peter’s words in today’s Epistle, whose call to be “self-controlled and sober-minded” is met with drooping eyelids, a yawn, and the notion that surely St. Peter meant the person sitting beside you.

John 17:1-11

The High Priestly Prayer

John 17:1

Ταῦτα ἐλάλησεν Ἰησοῦς, καὶ ἐπάρας τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς αὐτοῦ εἰς τὸν οὐρανὸν εἶπεν· Πάτερ, ἐλήλυθεν ἡ ὥρα· δόξασόν σου τὸν υἱόν, ἵνα ὁ υἱὸς δοξάσῃ σέ,

When Jesus had spoken these words, he lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you,

John17:2

καθὼς ἔδωκας αὐτῷ ἐξουσίαν πάσης σαρκός, ἵνα πᾶν ὃ δέδωκας αὐτῷ [e]δώσῃ αὐτοῖς ζωὴν αἰώνιον.

since you have given him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him.

John 17:3

αὕτη δέ ἐστιν ἡ αἰώνιος ζωὴ ἵνα γινώσκωσι σὲ τὸν μόνον ἀληθινὸν θεὸν καὶ ὃν ἀπέστειλας Ἰησοῦν Χριστόν.

And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.

John 17:4

ἐγώ σε ἐδόξασα ἐπὶ τῆς γῆς, τὸ ἔργον [f]τελειώσας ὃ δέδωκάς μοι ἵνα ποιήσω·

I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work that you gave me to do.

John 17:5

καὶ νῦν δόξασόν με σύ, πάτερ, παρὰ σεαυτῷ τῇ δόξῃ ᾗ εἶχον πρὸ τοῦ τὸν κόσμον εἶναι παρὰ σοί.

And now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had with you before the world existed.

John 17:6

Ἐφανέρωσά σου τὸ ὄνομα τοῖς ἀνθρώποις οὓς [g]ἔδωκάς μοι ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου. σοὶ ἦσαν κἀμοὶ αὐτοὺς ἔδωκας, καὶ τὸν λόγον σου τετήρηκαν.

I have manifested your name to the people whom you gave me out of the world. Yours they were, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word.

John 17:7

νῦν ἔγνωκαν ὅτι πάντα ὅσα [i]δέδωκάς μοι παρὰ σοῦ εἰσιν·

Now they know that everything that you have given me is from you.

John 17:8

ὅτι τὰ ῥήματα ἃ ἔδωκάς μοι δέδωκα αὐτοῖς, καὶ αὐτοὶ ἔλαβον καὶ ἔγνωσαν ἀληθῶς ὅτι παρὰ σοῦ ἐξῆλθον, καὶ ἐπίστευσαν ὅτι σύ με ἀπέστειλας.

For I have given them the words that you gave me, and they have received them and have come to know in truth that I came from you; and they have believed that you sent me.

John 17:9

ἐγὼ περὶ αὐτῶν ἐρωτῶ· οὐ περὶ τοῦ κόσμου ἐρωτῶ ἀλλὰ περὶ ὧν δέδωκάς μοι, ὅτι σοί εἰσιν,

I am praying for them. I am not praying for the world but for those whom you have given me, for they are yours.

John 17:10

καὶ τὰ ἐμὰ πάντα σά ἐστιν καὶ τὰ σὰ ἐμά, καὶ δεδόξασμαι ἐν αὐτοῖς.

All mine are yours, and yours are mine, and I am glorified in them.

John 17:11

καὶ οὐκέτι εἰμὶ ἐν τῷ κόσμῳ, καὶ [l]αὐτοὶ ἐν τῷ κόσμῳ εἰσίν, κἀγὼ πρὸς σὲ ἔρχομαι. πάτερ ἅγιε, τήρησον αὐτοὺς ἐν τῷ ὀνόματί σου ᾧ δέδωκάς μοι, ἵνα ὦσιν ἓν καθὼς ἡμεῖς.

And I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, keep them in your name, which you have given me, that they may be one, even as we are one.

Looking forward to the book of Romans in the non-festival calendar of the Church-year.

1:1-7 Gospel greeting

1:8-15 Thanksgiving

1:16-17 Paul's theme: "The righteous person shall live by faith"

1:18-32 The unrighteous will die

Grothe -

1:1-7 prescription

1:8-17 Exordium

1:18-21 wrath on all, without excuse

Passages of note

Romans 1:26-17 - Theme or Thesis of Romans (Romans 1:19-20) - natural knowledge of God will not save; these attributes are not comforting.

Romans 1:26-27 - current debate concerning homosexuality. A repeat continuation of the OT, there is an argument from nature, the biological components fit. Notice the law component "God gave them up" is spoken three times in this section.

Details of the text

:9 - oath and the "all"

"at every time of prayer" rather than "unceasingly" Paul was praying for them at a specific time (prayer office) of day. Corporate prayer in the Divine Service not individual devotional time. Not a newfound "individual time" with Jesus.

:10 - "if somehow" - "uncertainty and submissiveness to the Divine will" (Grothe, pg.30)

"Succeed in coming to you" (ESV) Note word for "road"

Note the passive

Note Paul's desire to visit Rome recorded in Acts 19:21

:11 - "spiritual gift" No particular gift is mentioned. Only place in the NT where these two words appear together. Note list in 12:6-8

:12 - "This is" result rather than purpose. "Through the faith of one another" - not necessarily referring to "saving faith in the Gospel"

:13 - Paul's intention to visit in the middle voice. "Harvest" or "fruit" - as new covenant or growth of believers? (Grothe argues new converts.)

:14 -"sociological" rather than "ethnic"- differences class, education, status. Note obligation to connection to 1:2 "slave

:15 - "So" as "consequence" resulting from his charge as an apostle. "According to me" is this Paul's version of the gospel, or Paul's eagerness.

:16 - "Not Ashamed" counter to those who might think Paul hasn't come out of shame. "Gospel" refer to as "news of victory".

- Jew and Greek equality and priority.

:17 - "from faith to faith" "faith from start to finish" (Grothe pg. 33) "from the faithfulness of God" and into faith as the faith of the believer. (Grothe pg.34)

"Righteous by faith will live" or "righteous will live by faith."

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