Our Savior Lynchburg, VA
By Our Savior Lutheran Church, Lynchburg, VA
Weekly sermons from Our Savior Lutheran Church, Lynchburg, VA
oursaviorlynchburg.org
oursaviorlynchburg.org
Our Savior Lynchburg, VAMar 07, 2024
00:00
10:56
Oculi (Lent 3) Wednesday AD 2024
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Exodus 20:12–24a / Matthew 15:1–20
Mar 07, 202410:56
Oculi: Third Sunday in Lent (Lent 3) AD 2024
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Exodus 8:16–24 / Psalm 4 / Ephesians 5:1–9 / Luke 11:14–28
Jesus Overcomes the Strong Man
Jeremiah was charged with speaking evil when he spoke the Word of the Lord (Jer. 26:1–15). So also, Jesus is accused of doing evil when in fact He is doing good. He casts out a demon from a mute man so that he is able to speak (Luke 11:14–28). But some said Jesus did this by the power of Beelzebub, Satan. Like Pharaoh of old, their hearts were hard (Ex. 8:16–24). They did not recognize the finger of God, the power of the Holy Spirit at work in and through Jesus. Jesus is the Stronger Man who overcomes the strong man. He takes the devil’s armor of sin and death and destroys it from the inside out by the holy cross. He exorcizes and frees us by water and the Word. We were once darkness, but now we are light in Christ the Lord (Eph. 5:1–9). As children of light, our tongues are loosed to give thanks to Him who saved us.
Mar 03, 202431:42
Reminiscere (Lent 2) Wednesday AD 2024
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Matthew 20:17–28 // Psalm 96
Feb 29, 202411:47
Reminiscere: Second Sunday in Lent (Lent 2) AD 2024
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Genesis 32:22–32 / Psalm 121 / 1 Thessalonians 4:1–7 / Matthew 15:21–28
Holding God to His Word
Jacob wrestled with God; he would not let Him go until he received a blessing from Him (Gen. 32:22–32). So it was with the Canaanite woman. Though Jesus seemed to ignore and reject her, she continued to call upon His name and look to Him for help (Mt. 15:21–28). Even when the Lord called her a little dog, she held on to Him in faith and would not let Him wriggle out of His words: “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.” This Gentile woman shows herself to be a true Israelite, who struggles with God and man in Christ and prevails. “O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire” (Mt. 15:27–28). This is the sanctifying will of God (1 Thess. 4:1–7)—to test your faith in order that it may be refined and strengthened. For tribulation produces perseverance; perseverance, character; character, hope. And hope in Christ does not disappoint (Rom. 5:1–5).
Feb 25, 202428:55
Invocavit (Lent 1) Wednesday AD 2024
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Exodus 24:12–18 / 1 Kings 19:3b–8 / Matthew 12:38–50
Feb 22, 202408:10
Invocavit: First Sunday in Lent (Lent 1) AD 2024
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Genesis 3:1–21 / Psalm 118 / 2 Corinthians 6:1–10 / Matthew 4:1–11
Jesus Does Battle in Our Place
In the Garden, man exalts himself to be a god in place of God (Gen. 3:1–21). He succumbs to the temptation of the devil, and eating of the forbidden fruit, he receives death. But in the sin-cursed wilderness, God humbles Himself to become man in place of man (Mt. 4:1–11). He does not eat but fasts and bears the onslaughts of the devil for us that we may be restored to life. Jesus stands as David in our place to do battle against the Goliath, Satan (1 Samuel 17:40–51). Though outwardly Jesus appears weak, yet He comes in the name of the Lord of hosts. He draws from the five smooth stones of the books of Moses and slings the Word of God. The stone sinks into the forehead, and the enemy falls. In Christ we are victorious over the devil. Let us therefore not receive the grace of God in vain (2 Cor. 6:1–10), but seeing that we have a great High Priest, let us come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain help in time of need (Heb 4:14–16).
Genesis 3:1–21 / Psalm 118 / 2 Corinthians 6:1–10 / Matthew 4:1–11
Jesus Does Battle in Our Place
In the Garden, man exalts himself to be a god in place of God (Gen. 3:1–21). He succumbs to the temptation of the devil, and eating of the forbidden fruit, he receives death. But in the sin-cursed wilderness, God humbles Himself to become man in place of man (Mt. 4:1–11). He does not eat but fasts and bears the onslaughts of the devil for us that we may be restored to life. Jesus stands as David in our place to do battle against the Goliath, Satan (1 Samuel 17:40–51). Though outwardly Jesus appears weak, yet He comes in the name of the Lord of hosts. He draws from the five smooth stones of the books of Moses and slings the Word of God. The stone sinks into the forehead, and the enemy falls. In Christ we are victorious over the devil. Let us therefore not receive the grace of God in vain (2 Cor. 6:1–10), but seeing that we have a great High Priest, let us come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain help in time of need (Heb 4:14–16).
Feb 18, 202423:24
Ash Wednesday AD 2024
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Joel 2:12–19 / 2 Peter 1:2–11 / Matthew 6:16–21
Return to the Lord Your God with All Your Heart.
With Jesus, we set our face toward Jerusalem. We make a pilgrimage with Him by the way of repentance, and thus return to the dying and rising of Holy Baptism. Each day He summons you to return to Him with all your heart because He is “gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love” (Joel 2:13). Do so in faith and confidence before Him, supplementing your faith with “virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love” (2 Pet. 1:5–7). During this Lenten season: set aside special times to pray to your Father in heaven; give to the needy from a heart of love; and fast for the sake of repentance (Matt. 6:3–4, 6, 17–18).
Feb 15, 202411:45
Quinquagesima AD 2024
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
1 Samuel 16:1–13 / Psalm 146 / 1 Corinthians 13:1–13 / Luke 18:31–43
Quinquagesima (meaning “about 50 days”)
Grace is Not Easily Understood (or Faith Alone in Christ Alone). The seeing are blind, while the one who is blind can see (Luke 18:31–43), for he calls Jesus “Son of David.”. On the Sunday before Ash Wednesday we hear in the Gospel (Luke 18:34) Jesus predict His passion, death, and resurrection. We also hear that the disciples “understood none of these things. This saying was hidden from them, and they did not grasp what was said.” We pray then that God would be gracious and patient with us and grant faith and understanding to us despite our many sins. Those who behold Him thus by faith follow Him to the cross through death into life eternal.
What is pre-Lent?
These three Sundays begin the church's countdown to Easter Sunday. More properly, this time is called Gesimatide from the Latin names: Septuagesima (70 days – Grace is undeserved or Grace alone); Sexagesima (60 days – Grace is passively received or Scripture alone); and Quinquagesima (50 days – Grace is not easily understood or Faith alone). These themes, which point us to God's Word and the old truths of the Reformation, help us to prepare for the season of Lent.
Feb 11, 202427:08
Sexagesima Wednesday AD 2024
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Hebrews 12:3–9 / Matthew 12:30–37
Hebrews 12:3–9 / Matthew 12:30–37
Feb 08, 202414:54
Sexagesima AD 2024
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Isaiah 55:10–13 / Psalm 84 / 2 Corinthians 11:19–12:9 / Luke 8:4–15
Sexagesima (meaning “about 60 days”) - Grace is Passively Received (or Scripture Alone)
The Sower sows the seed of His Word (Luke 8:4–15). This Word is living and powerful (Heb. 4:9–13) to conceive new life in those who hear it. But the planting of Christ is attacked by the devil, the world, and our own sinful flesh. In the collect for this Sunday we pray that God would be our strength and that He would mercifully defend us by His power. In Christ, the weak are strong (2 Cor. 11:19–12:9). In the Parable of the Sower (Luke 8:4-15), we hear how the seed of God’s Word is passively received. It transforms bad soil into good and noble hearts. We pray that this would happen to and for us. He is the Word of the Father which does not return void (Is. 55:10–13) but yields a harvest hundredfold.
What is pre-Lent?
These three Sundays begin the church's countdown to Easter Sunday. More properly, this time is called Gesimatide from the Latin names: Septuagesima (70 days – Grace is undeserved or Grace alone); Sexagesima (60 days – Grace is passively received or Scripture alone); and Quinquagesima (50 days – Grace is not easily understood or Faith alone). These themes, which point us to God's Word and the old truths of the Reformation, help us to prepare for the season of Lent.
Isaiah 55:10–13 / Psalm 84 / 2 Corinthians 11:19–12:9 / Luke 8:4–15
Sexagesima (meaning “about 60 days”) - Grace is Passively Received (or Scripture Alone)
The Sower sows the seed of His Word (Luke 8:4–15). This Word is living and powerful (Heb. 4:9–13) to conceive new life in those who hear it. But the planting of Christ is attacked by the devil, the world, and our own sinful flesh. In the collect for this Sunday we pray that God would be our strength and that He would mercifully defend us by His power. In Christ, the weak are strong (2 Cor. 11:19–12:9). In the Parable of the Sower (Luke 8:4-15), we hear how the seed of God’s Word is passively received. It transforms bad soil into good and noble hearts. We pray that this would happen to and for us. He is the Word of the Father which does not return void (Is. 55:10–13) but yields a harvest hundredfold.
What is pre-Lent?
These three Sundays begin the church's countdown to Easter Sunday. More properly, this time is called Gesimatide from the Latin names: Septuagesima (70 days – Grace is undeserved or Grace alone); Sexagesima (60 days – Grace is passively received or Scripture alone); and Quinquagesima (50 days – Grace is not easily understood or Faith alone). These themes, which point us to God's Word and the old truths of the Reformation, help us to prepare for the season of Lent.
Feb 04, 202431:44
Septuagesima Wednesday AD 2024
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Hebrews 4:11–16 / Mark 9:30–37
Hebrews 4:11–16 / Mark 9:30–37
Jan 31, 202409:09
Septuagesima AD 2024
Preacher: The Rev. R. Eric Malmstrom
Daniel 9:2–10* / Psalm 95 / 1 Corinthians 9:24–10:5 / Matthew 20:1–16
Septuagesima (meaning “about 70 days”) - Grace is Undeserved (or Grace Alone)
The collect for this Sunday implores God to graciously hear us, who are justly punished for our sin, so that we may be delivered by His goodness. The goodness of God is emphasized in the parable of the vineyard workers in the Gospel, Matthew 20:1-16. All the laborers receive the reward because of the goodness of the landowner and not because of their own labor or merit. We prepare for Easter by remembering that God is good and Christ has borne the heat and burden of the day for us so that we might have the goodness He gives for free.
What is pre-Lent? These three Sundays begin the church's countdown to Easter Sunday. More properly, this time is called Gesimatide from the Latin names: Septuagesima (70 days – Grace is undeserved or Grace alone); Sexagesima (60 days – Grace is passively received or Scripture alone); and Quinquagesima (50 days – Grace is not easily understood or Faith alone). These themes, which point us to God's Word and the old truths of the Reformation, help us to prepare for the season of Lent.
Daniel 9:2–10* / Psalm 95 / 1 Corinthians 9:24–10:5 / Matthew 20:1–16
Septuagesima (meaning “about 70 days”) - Grace is Undeserved (or Grace Alone)
The collect for this Sunday implores God to graciously hear us, who are justly punished for our sin, so that we may be delivered by His goodness. The goodness of God is emphasized in the parable of the vineyard workers in the Gospel, Matthew 20:1-16. All the laborers receive the reward because of the goodness of the landowner and not because of their own labor or merit. We prepare for Easter by remembering that God is good and Christ has borne the heat and burden of the day for us so that we might have the goodness He gives for free.
What is pre-Lent? These three Sundays begin the church's countdown to Easter Sunday. More properly, this time is called Gesimatide from the Latin names: Septuagesima (70 days – Grace is undeserved or Grace alone); Sexagesima (60 days – Grace is passively received or Scripture alone); and Quinquagesima (50 days – Grace is not easily understood or Faith alone). These themes, which point us to God's Word and the old truths of the Reformation, help us to prepare for the season of Lent.
Jan 28, 202421:07
Last Sunday after the Epiphany (The Transfiguration of Our Lord) AD 2024
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Exodus 34:29–35 / Psalm 2 / 2 Peter 1:16–21 / Matthew 17:1–9
Jesus Is Transfigured and Manifests His Glory
The Lord appeared to Moses in the light of the burning bush (Ex. 3:1–14). Later Moses’ face would shine with the light of God’s glory when he came down from Mount Sinai (Ex. 34:29–35). At the Transfiguration, Moses and Elijah appeared with the One who is the Light of Light Himself (Matt. 17:1–9). Jesus’ glory as God shines with brilliant splendor in and through His human nature. By this epiphany, our Lord confirmed the prophetic word (2 Pet. 1:16–21), revealing that He is the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. He manifested His majesty as the eternal Son of the Father, and He wonderfully foreshowed our adoption as sons (Collect). We who have been baptized into Christ’s body are given a glimpse of the glory that we will share with Him in the resurrection on the Last Day.
Exodus 34:29–35 / Psalm 2 / 2 Peter 1:16–21 / Matthew 17:1–9
Jesus Is Transfigured and Manifests His Glory
The Lord appeared to Moses in the light of the burning bush (Ex. 3:1–14). Later Moses’ face would shine with the light of God’s glory when he came down from Mount Sinai (Ex. 34:29–35). At the Transfiguration, Moses and Elijah appeared with the One who is the Light of Light Himself (Matt. 17:1–9). Jesus’ glory as God shines with brilliant splendor in and through His human nature. By this epiphany, our Lord confirmed the prophetic word (2 Pet. 1:16–21), revealing that He is the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. He manifested His majesty as the eternal Son of the Father, and He wonderfully foreshowed our adoption as sons (Collect). We who have been baptized into Christ’s body are given a glimpse of the glory that we will share with Him in the resurrection on the Last Day.
Jan 22, 202433:13
Second Sunday after the Epiphany AD 2024
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Amos 9:11–15 / Psalm 111 / Romans 12:6–16a* / John 2:1–11
Jesus’ First Miracle Reveals God’s Glory
The coming of the Messianic kingdom means the restoration of creation. The sign of this restoration is that “the mountains shall drip sweet wine” (Amos 9:11–15). When the elements of a fallen creation fail and run short at a wedding feast, our Lord Jesus steps in to restore creation and miraculously changes water into an abundance of the very best wine (John 2:1–11). With this sign, Christ manifests His glory. The “back” of God (Ex. 33:12–23) is revealed to those who believe. The hour will come when Jesus will again manifest His glory by taking creation’s curse into His own body to release us from its power. The Bridegroom will give His life for the Bride (Eph. 5:22–32), and from His side will flow water and blood, the holy sacraments by which she is cleansed and made one with Him. Through this sacrificial love of Christ we are enabled to “love one another with brotherly affection . . .” and to “outdo one another in showing honor” (Rom. 12:6–16).
Amos 9:11–15 / Psalm 111 / Romans 12:6–16a* / John 2:1–11
Jesus’ First Miracle Reveals God’s Glory
The coming of the Messianic kingdom means the restoration of creation. The sign of this restoration is that “the mountains shall drip sweet wine” (Amos 9:11–15). When the elements of a fallen creation fail and run short at a wedding feast, our Lord Jesus steps in to restore creation and miraculously changes water into an abundance of the very best wine (John 2:1–11). With this sign, Christ manifests His glory. The “back” of God (Ex. 33:12–23) is revealed to those who believe. The hour will come when Jesus will again manifest His glory by taking creation’s curse into His own body to release us from its power. The Bridegroom will give His life for the Bride (Eph. 5:22–32), and from His side will flow water and blood, the holy sacraments by which she is cleansed and made one with Him. Through this sacrificial love of Christ we are enabled to “love one another with brotherly affection . . .” and to “outdo one another in showing honor” (Rom. 12:6–16).
Jan 14, 202431:02
Sunday within the Epiphany Octave (Epiphany 1) AD 2024
Preacher: The Rev. R. Eric Malmstrom
Isaiah 42:1–9* / Psalm 50 / Romans 12:1–6a* / Luke 2:42–52
The Glory of the Lord Returns to the Temple in the Boy Jesus
In the days of Solomon, the Lord dwelt among His people in the temple. The glory of the Lord filled the house of the Lord in the form of a cloud (1 Kings 8:6–13). Now Jesus, who is the glory of the Lord in the flesh, enters the temple to show that He Himself is the everlasting temple and dwelling place of God (Luke 2:41–52). Our young Lord, true man, subject to Mary and Joseph, reveals Himself also to be true God, whose father is not Joseph but the Almighty Father in heaven. Jesus does this at the time of the Passover. For He came to be the sacrificial Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. Even as He was found by His parents after three days, so He would later rise from the dead on the third day that the favor of God might rest also upon us. It is by these mercies of God that we present our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God through Christ (Rom. 12:1–5).
Isaiah 42:1–9* / Psalm 50 / Romans 12:1–6a* / Luke 2:42–52
The Glory of the Lord Returns to the Temple in the Boy Jesus
In the days of Solomon, the Lord dwelt among His people in the temple. The glory of the Lord filled the house of the Lord in the form of a cloud (1 Kings 8:6–13). Now Jesus, who is the glory of the Lord in the flesh, enters the temple to show that He Himself is the everlasting temple and dwelling place of God (Luke 2:41–52). Our young Lord, true man, subject to Mary and Joseph, reveals Himself also to be true God, whose father is not Joseph but the Almighty Father in heaven. Jesus does this at the time of the Passover. For He came to be the sacrificial Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. Even as He was found by His parents after three days, so He would later rise from the dead on the third day that the favor of God might rest also upon us. It is by these mercies of God that we present our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God through Christ (Rom. 12:1–5).
Jan 07, 202418:58
Sunday within the Christmas Octave AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Jeremiah 31:31–34* / Psalm 89:1-8 / Galatians 4:1–7 / Luke 2:33–40
The Seed of David Comes to His Temple
A Rod has come forth from the stem of Jesse (Is. 11:1–5)—the Seed of David whose kingdom shall be established forever (2 Sam. 7:1–16). In the fullness of time, God sent forth His Son Jesus to redeem us from the judgment of the Law (Gal. 4:1–7). Now He is presented in the temple in fulfillment of the Law and revealed to be “a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel” (Luke 2:22–40). Christ has enlightened us in baptism, giving us to be adopted as sons of God and heirs of eternal life. Receiving the Holy Sacrament of His body and blood, we are prepared to depart this world in peace, for our eyes have seen the salvation of God in Him.
Jeremiah 31:31–34* / Psalm 89:1-8 / Galatians 4:1–7 / Luke 2:33–40
The Seed of David Comes to His Temple
A Rod has come forth from the stem of Jesse (Is. 11:1–5)—the Seed of David whose kingdom shall be established forever (2 Sam. 7:1–16). In the fullness of time, God sent forth His Son Jesus to redeem us from the judgment of the Law (Gal. 4:1–7). Now He is presented in the temple in fulfillment of the Law and revealed to be “a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel” (Luke 2:22–40). Christ has enlightened us in baptism, giving us to be adopted as sons of God and heirs of eternal life. Receiving the Holy Sacrament of His body and blood, we are prepared to depart this world in peace, for our eyes have seen the salvation of God in Him.
Dec 31, 202330:24
Christmas Day AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Isaiah 52:6–10* / Hebrews 1:1–12* / John 1:1–14
The Living and Life-Giving Word of God Dwells among Us in the Flesh
In the beginning God created all things through His Word, His Son. But man fell into sin, and with man all creation was cursed. Therefore, God spoke His Word again, this time into the womb of the blessed Virgin Mary. The glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle of our human nature (Ex. 40:17–21, 34–38). “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:1–14). The Son of God took on our flesh and blood and died on the cross in order that we might receive the right to become the children of God through faith. Baptized into Christ’s body, we are made partakers of a new Genesis, “the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit” (Titus 3:4–7). In Christ, the kindness and love of God our Savior toward man has truly appeared.
Isaiah 52:6–10* / Hebrews 1:1–12* / John 1:1–14
The Living and Life-Giving Word of God Dwells among Us in the Flesh
In the beginning God created all things through His Word, His Son. But man fell into sin, and with man all creation was cursed. Therefore, God spoke His Word again, this time into the womb of the blessed Virgin Mary. The glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle of our human nature (Ex. 40:17–21, 34–38). “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:1–14). The Son of God took on our flesh and blood and died on the cross in order that we might receive the right to become the children of God through faith. Baptized into Christ’s body, we are made partakers of a new Genesis, “the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit” (Titus 3:4–7). In Christ, the kindness and love of God our Savior toward man has truly appeared.
Dec 25, 202314:40
Rorate coeli (Advent 4) AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Deuteronomy 18:15–19 / Psalm 111 / Philippians 4:4–7 / John 1:19–28
John the Baptist Points Everyone to the Messiah
The coming of God in all His unveiled power at Mount Sinai was terrifying to the people of Israel. The thundering voice of the Lord puts sinners in fear of death (Deut. 18:15–19). God, therefore, raised up a prophet like Moses—the Messiah, the Christ. God came to His people veiled in human flesh. The skies poured down the Righteous One from heaven; the earth opened her womb and brought forth Salvation (Introit) through the blessed Virgin Mary, the mother of the Lord (Luke 1:39–56). The fruit of her womb is the very Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, the One whose sandal strap John was not worthy to loose (John 1:19–28). In Jesus we are delivered from fear and anxiety. In Him alone we have the peace of God which surpasses all understanding (Phil. 4:4–7).
Deuteronomy 18:15–19 / Psalm 111 / Philippians 4:4–7 / John 1:19–28
John the Baptist Points Everyone to the Messiah
The coming of God in all His unveiled power at Mount Sinai was terrifying to the people of Israel. The thundering voice of the Lord puts sinners in fear of death (Deut. 18:15–19). God, therefore, raised up a prophet like Moses—the Messiah, the Christ. God came to His people veiled in human flesh. The skies poured down the Righteous One from heaven; the earth opened her womb and brought forth Salvation (Introit) through the blessed Virgin Mary, the mother of the Lord (Luke 1:39–56). The fruit of her womb is the very Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, the One whose sandal strap John was not worthy to loose (John 1:19–28). In Jesus we are delivered from fear and anxiety. In Him alone we have the peace of God which surpasses all understanding (Phil. 4:4–7).
Dec 24, 202327:17
St. Thomas Apostle AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. R. Eric Malmstrom
Ephesians 1:3–8a* / Gospel for Vigil: John 15:5–11*
St. Thomas, Apostle
The Church is “built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the cornerstone” (Eph. 2:20). “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace” (Eph. 1:7). We have the testimony of the truth, so that the Church is not “carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning” (Eph. 4:14). As the Lord confirmed His truth to Gideon (Judges 6:36–40), so He does not turn away Thomas, but reveals His crucified and risen body to him, creating faith (John 20:27-28). Christ’s wounds are the source of our redemption and peace. Strengthened by this, Thomas is said to have brought the Gospel to India and faced a martyr’s death. Those who follow the Master will suffer on account of His Name (John 15:18–21). But by the confession of the truth, the body of Christ grows“up in every way into Him who is the head, into Christ” (Eph. 4:15), whom Thomas praised as his“Lord” and his “God” (John 20:28).
Ephesians 1:3–8a* / Gospel for Vigil: John 15:5–11*
St. Thomas, Apostle
The Church is “built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the cornerstone” (Eph. 2:20). “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace” (Eph. 1:7). We have the testimony of the truth, so that the Church is not “carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning” (Eph. 4:14). As the Lord confirmed His truth to Gideon (Judges 6:36–40), so He does not turn away Thomas, but reveals His crucified and risen body to him, creating faith (John 20:27-28). Christ’s wounds are the source of our redemption and peace. Strengthened by this, Thomas is said to have brought the Gospel to India and faced a martyr’s death. Those who follow the Master will suffer on account of His Name (John 15:18–21). But by the confession of the truth, the body of Christ grows“up in every way into Him who is the head, into Christ” (Eph. 4:15), whom Thomas praised as his“Lord” and his “God” (John 20:28).
Dec 21, 202316:05
Gaudete (Advent 3) AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Isaiah 40:1–11 / Psalm 85 / 1 Corinthians 4:1–5 / Matthew 11:2–11
John the Baptist Prepares the Way for the Lord
The voice of the Baptist cried out in the wilderness: “Prepare the way of the Lord . . .” (Isa. 40:1). John called the people to be made ready for the Messiah’s coming through repentance, for “all flesh is grass” (Isa. 40:6). Now He asks from prison, “Are you the one who is to come . . .?” (Matt. 11:2). Jesus’ works bear witness that He is. The sick are made well; the dead are raised, and the poor have the Gospel preached to them. Their iniquity is pardoned; they have received from the Lord’s hand double forgiveness for all their sins. The “stewards of the mysteries of God” (1 Cor. 4:1) still deliver Christ’s overflowing forgiveness to the poor in spirit, comforting God’s people with the word of the Gospel which stands forever. This Gospel produces rejoicing among all those who believe.
Isaiah 40:1–11 / Psalm 85 / 1 Corinthians 4:1–5 / Matthew 11:2–11
John the Baptist Prepares the Way for the Lord
The voice of the Baptist cried out in the wilderness: “Prepare the way of the Lord . . .” (Isa. 40:1). John called the people to be made ready for the Messiah’s coming through repentance, for “all flesh is grass” (Isa. 40:6). Now He asks from prison, “Are you the one who is to come . . .?” (Matt. 11:2). Jesus’ works bear witness that He is. The sick are made well; the dead are raised, and the poor have the Gospel preached to them. Their iniquity is pardoned; they have received from the Lord’s hand double forgiveness for all their sins. The “stewards of the mysteries of God” (1 Cor. 4:1) still deliver Christ’s overflowing forgiveness to the poor in spirit, comforting God’s people with the word of the Gospel which stands forever. This Gospel produces rejoicing among all those who believe.
Dec 17, 202330:04
Populus Zion (Advent 2) Wednesday AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. R. Eric Malmstrom
Malachi 3:1–5; 4:1–6a / Matthew 11:11–15
Malachi 3:1–5; 4:1–6a / Matthew 11:11–15
Dec 14, 202310:35
Populus Zion (Advent 2) AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Song of Solomon 2:8b–14* / Psalm 50:1–15 / Romans 15:4–13 / Luke 21:25–36
Lutheran Missal
The Lord Comes to His Beloved on the Last Day
The day on which our Lord returns will be a “great and awesome day” (Mal. 4:5). For He will come in a cloud with great power and glory. The signs preceding this Day will bring distress and perplexity, fear and fainting. But to those who believe, who fear the name of the Lord, Christ our Redeemer is coming; the Sun of Righteousness will bring healing in His wings. Christ is the Church’s Beloved Bridegroom, who comes to rescue us at the end of a long, dark winter. He points to the signs of flower and fruit; now is the time of singing. So let us, then, give attention to the words of the Lord, which do not pass away. Let us “through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures” (Rom. 15:4) abound in hope by the Holy Spirit and watch diligently for Jesus’ coming. Then, by God’s grace, we shall escape all these things that will come to pass and stand before the Son of Man. Therefore, dear Christians: “. . . straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:28).
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LCMS
The Lord Comes on the Last Day
The day on which our Lord returns will be a “great and awesome day” (Mal. 4:5). For He will come in a cloud with great power and glory. To the wicked and the proud, it will be a Day of judgment that will “set them ablaze” (Mal. 4:1). The signs preceding this Day will bring them fear and fainting. But to those who believe, who fear the name of the Lord, this Day is one to look forward to and rejoice in: “. . . straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:28). Christ our Redeemer is coming; the Sun of Righteousness will bring healing in His wings. Let us, then, give attention to the words of the Lord, which do not pass away. Let us “through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures” (Rom. 15:4) be strengthened in our hope by the Holy Spirit and watch diligently for Jesus’ coming. Then, by God’s grace, we shall escape all these things that will come to pass and stand before the Son of Man.
Song of Solomon 2:8b–14* / Psalm 50:1–15 / Romans 15:4–13 / Luke 21:25–36
Lutheran Missal
The Lord Comes to His Beloved on the Last Day
The day on which our Lord returns will be a “great and awesome day” (Mal. 4:5). For He will come in a cloud with great power and glory. The signs preceding this Day will bring distress and perplexity, fear and fainting. But to those who believe, who fear the name of the Lord, Christ our Redeemer is coming; the Sun of Righteousness will bring healing in His wings. Christ is the Church’s Beloved Bridegroom, who comes to rescue us at the end of a long, dark winter. He points to the signs of flower and fruit; now is the time of singing. So let us, then, give attention to the words of the Lord, which do not pass away. Let us “through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures” (Rom. 15:4) abound in hope by the Holy Spirit and watch diligently for Jesus’ coming. Then, by God’s grace, we shall escape all these things that will come to pass and stand before the Son of Man. Therefore, dear Christians: “. . . straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:28).
—
LCMS
The Lord Comes on the Last Day
The day on which our Lord returns will be a “great and awesome day” (Mal. 4:5). For He will come in a cloud with great power and glory. To the wicked and the proud, it will be a Day of judgment that will “set them ablaze” (Mal. 4:1). The signs preceding this Day will bring them fear and fainting. But to those who believe, who fear the name of the Lord, this Day is one to look forward to and rejoice in: “. . . straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:28). Christ our Redeemer is coming; the Sun of Righteousness will bring healing in His wings. Let us, then, give attention to the words of the Lord, which do not pass away. Let us “through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures” (Rom. 15:4) be strengthened in our hope by the Holy Spirit and watch diligently for Jesus’ coming. Then, by God’s grace, we shall escape all these things that will come to pass and stand before the Son of Man.
Dec 10, 202333:14
Ad Te Levavi (Advent 1) AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Jeremiah 23:5–8 / Psalm 24 / Romans 13:11–14 / Matthew 21:1–9
The Lord Jesus Comes in Gentleness to Redeem Us
The new Church Year begins by focusing on the humble coming of our Lord. “Behold, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey” (Matt. 21:5). Even as He was born in a lowly manger, so Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a beast of burden. For He bears the sin of the world. He is the Son of David riding to His enthronement on the cross, where He shows Himself to be “The LORD is our Righteousness” (Jer. 23:5–6). Our Lord still comes in great humility to deliver His righteousness to us in the Word and Sacraments. Before receiving Christ’s body and blood, we also sing, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!” (Matt. 21:9) And as we receive the Sacrament, we set our hearts on His return in glory, for “our salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed” (Rom. 13:11).
Jeremiah 23:5–8 / Psalm 24 / Romans 13:11–14 / Matthew 21:1–9
The Lord Jesus Comes in Gentleness to Redeem Us
The new Church Year begins by focusing on the humble coming of our Lord. “Behold, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey” (Matt. 21:5). Even as He was born in a lowly manger, so Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a beast of burden. For He bears the sin of the world. He is the Son of David riding to His enthronement on the cross, where He shows Himself to be “The LORD is our Righteousness” (Jer. 23:5–6). Our Lord still comes in great humility to deliver His righteousness to us in the Word and Sacraments. Before receiving Christ’s body and blood, we also sing, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!” (Matt. 21:9) And as we receive the Sacrament, we set our hearts on His return in glory, for “our salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed” (Rom. 13:11).
Dec 03, 202331:55
Eve of St. Andrew, Apostle AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Ezekiel 3:16–21 / Gospel for Vigil: John 1:35–51*
St. Andrew, Apostle
The old church year ends with the watchman’s cry (Matt. 25:6), and the new one begins with it (Ezek. 3:17): John the Baptist’s call of warning and repentance, which St. Andrew heard and heeded. But John’s forerunning task was chiefly to point his disciples to Jesus, “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29;36). Thus, Andrew became the first of Christ’s disciples. He in turn pointed his brother Simon Peter to the Messiah (John 1:41), and “immediately they left their nets and followed” the Christ (Matt. 4:20). “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news” (Rom. 10:15). Andrew’s eagerness to follow Christ and bring others to Him made “no distinction between Jew and Greek” (Rom. 10:12; John 12:20–22), and he may be counted as the first missionary. His zeal in following Christ led him, according to tradition, to face a martyr’s death on an “X” shaped cross. So we are directed at the beginning of Advent to focus our eyes on Christ’s cross, where God’s Lamb was offered for our salvation.
Ezekiel 3:16–21 / Gospel for Vigil: John 1:35–51*
St. Andrew, Apostle
The old church year ends with the watchman’s cry (Matt. 25:6), and the new one begins with it (Ezek. 3:17): John the Baptist’s call of warning and repentance, which St. Andrew heard and heeded. But John’s forerunning task was chiefly to point his disciples to Jesus, “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29;36). Thus, Andrew became the first of Christ’s disciples. He in turn pointed his brother Simon Peter to the Messiah (John 1:41), and “immediately they left their nets and followed” the Christ (Matt. 4:20). “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news” (Rom. 10:15). Andrew’s eagerness to follow Christ and bring others to Him made “no distinction between Jew and Greek” (Rom. 10:12; John 12:20–22), and he may be counted as the first missionary. His zeal in following Christ led him, according to tradition, to face a martyr’s death on an “X” shaped cross. So we are directed at the beginning of Advent to focus our eyes on Christ’s cross, where God’s Lamb was offered for our salvation.
Nov 30, 202307:02
Last Sunday (Trinity 27) AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Isaiah 65:17–25 / Psalm 149 / 1 Thessalonians 5:1–11 / Matthew 25:1–13
By Faith We Are Prepared for Christ’s Return
“The day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night” (1 Thess. 5:1–11). The arrival of the bridegroom will be sudden and unexpected. Therefore you are to be watchful and ready like the five wise virgins. “For you know neither the day nor the hour” when the Son of Man is to return. (Matt. 25:1–13). The lamps are the Word of Christ. The oil in the lamps is the Holy Spirit, who works through the Word to create and sustain the flame of faith in Christ. The foolish are those who do not give proper attention to the working of the Holy Spirit in baptism, preaching, and the supper, and so their faith does not endure. The wise, however, are those who diligently attend to these gifts of the Spirit, and who therefore have an abundance of oil. The flame of faith endures to the end. By God’s grace they are received into the eternal wedding feast of the Lamb in His kingdom, the new heavens and the new earth created by the Lord for the joy of His people (Is. 65:17–25).
Isaiah 65:17–25 / Psalm 149 / 1 Thessalonians 5:1–11 / Matthew 25:1–13
By Faith We Are Prepared for Christ’s Return
“The day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night” (1 Thess. 5:1–11). The arrival of the bridegroom will be sudden and unexpected. Therefore you are to be watchful and ready like the five wise virgins. “For you know neither the day nor the hour” when the Son of Man is to return. (Matt. 25:1–13). The lamps are the Word of Christ. The oil in the lamps is the Holy Spirit, who works through the Word to create and sustain the flame of faith in Christ. The foolish are those who do not give proper attention to the working of the Holy Spirit in baptism, preaching, and the supper, and so their faith does not endure. The wise, however, are those who diligently attend to these gifts of the Spirit, and who therefore have an abundance of oil. The flame of faith endures to the end. By God’s grace they are received into the eternal wedding feast of the Lamb in His kingdom, the new heavens and the new earth created by the Lord for the joy of His people (Is. 65:17–25).
Nov 26, 202329:50
Thanksgiving Eve AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Deuteronomy 26:1–11 / Psalm 65 / 2 Corinthians 9:6–15 / Luke 12:13–21 [Harvest propers]
We Receive our Daily Bread with Thanksgiving to God and Service to One Another
Fool! So is anyone who believes that we make our own living. Rather, it is the Lord who gives the land and its increase (Deut. 26:9), who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food (2 Cor. 9:10). He who made us and all creatures still takes care of us, and He gives us a part in His kingdom. Through our vocations we serve others. In the Old Testament, the offerings of the people provided for the Levites. So also in the New, God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. We do not create ourselves, nor does one’s life consist in the abundance of his possessions (Luke 12:15). Covetousness is idolatry (Eph. 5:5). But we trust in Christ, from whose sacrifice alone all good gifts come. Flowing from our confession of the Gospel of Christ, we submit to one another in service to our neighbor, supporting the work of the Church and serving in our daily vocations. Such faith overflows in many thanksgivings to God (2 Cor. 9:12), from whom comes every good and perfect gift (James 1:17).
Deuteronomy 26:1–11 / Psalm 65 / 2 Corinthians 9:6–15 / Luke 12:13–21 [Harvest propers]
We Receive our Daily Bread with Thanksgiving to God and Service to One Another
Fool! So is anyone who believes that we make our own living. Rather, it is the Lord who gives the land and its increase (Deut. 26:9), who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food (2 Cor. 9:10). He who made us and all creatures still takes care of us, and He gives us a part in His kingdom. Through our vocations we serve others. In the Old Testament, the offerings of the people provided for the Levites. So also in the New, God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. We do not create ourselves, nor does one’s life consist in the abundance of his possessions (Luke 12:15). Covetousness is idolatry (Eph. 5:5). But we trust in Christ, from whose sacrifice alone all good gifts come. Flowing from our confession of the Gospel of Christ, we submit to one another in service to our neighbor, supporting the work of the Church and serving in our daily vocations. Such faith overflows in many thanksgivings to God (2 Cor. 9:12), from whom comes every good and perfect gift (James 1:17).
Nov 23, 202319:18
Trinity 24 AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Isaiah 51:9–16 / Psalm 126 / Colossians 1:9–14 / Matthew 9:18–26
The Strength of the Lord Is Our Salvation from Sin, Death, and Darkness
A shroud of darkness engulfs us. Sin, death, and disease threaten to sever us from life’s fullest measure. Without new life in Christ Jesus, there would be no light to dissipate, dispel, or curb grief and sadness. But Jesus has qualified us “to share in the inheritance of the saints of light” delivering us from the dark domain (Col. 1:9–14). “I have put my words in your mouth and covered you in the shadow of my hand,…You are my people” (Is. 51:9–16). The presence of Christ, in word, wine, bread, and water, confronts our sinful nature with forgiveness. In the sacraments, God claims us to be His very own children, creating, and sustaining our faith. So in Christ, we humbly receive the words, “your faith has made you well” (Matt. 9:18–26). On the last day God will surely awaken us also from slumber in resurrection glory.
Isaiah 51:9–16 / Psalm 126 / Colossians 1:9–14 / Matthew 9:18–26
The Strength of the Lord Is Our Salvation from Sin, Death, and Darkness
A shroud of darkness engulfs us. Sin, death, and disease threaten to sever us from life’s fullest measure. Without new life in Christ Jesus, there would be no light to dissipate, dispel, or curb grief and sadness. But Jesus has qualified us “to share in the inheritance of the saints of light” delivering us from the dark domain (Col. 1:9–14). “I have put my words in your mouth and covered you in the shadow of my hand,…You are my people” (Is. 51:9–16). The presence of Christ, in word, wine, bread, and water, confronts our sinful nature with forgiveness. In the sacraments, God claims us to be His very own children, creating, and sustaining our faith. So in Christ, we humbly receive the words, “your faith has made you well” (Matt. 9:18–26). On the last day God will surely awaken us also from slumber in resurrection glory.
Nov 19, 202328:17
Trinity 23 AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Proverbs 8:11–22 / Psalm 111 / Philippians 3:17–21 / Matthew 22:15–21*
Render to God the things of God
When confronted with the civic duty of paying taxes, our Lord Jesus, Wisdom incarnate, walked “in the way of righteousness, in the paths of justice” (Prov. 8:20) and discerned that wisdom “is better than jewels” and “better than gold, even fine gold” (Prov. 8:11, 19). When we set our minds on earthly things, such as wealth and passing glory, our “end is destruction” (Phil. 3:19). However, our humble and prudent Lord has rendered “to God the things that are God’s” (Matt. 22:21), namely, perfect fear, love, and trust, as well as the complete sacrifice for our sin. In so doing, He also rendered to Caesar the things of honor and justice, submitting to the law of the land that put Him on the cross. The true “riches and honor are with [Him],” because “enduring wealth and righteousness” (Prov. 8:18) are found in our heavenly citizenship from which “we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” He “will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself” (Phil. 3:20-21).
Proverbs 8:11–22 / Psalm 111 / Philippians 3:17–21 / Matthew 22:15–21*
Render to God the things of God
When confronted with the civic duty of paying taxes, our Lord Jesus, Wisdom incarnate, walked “in the way of righteousness, in the paths of justice” (Prov. 8:20) and discerned that wisdom “is better than jewels” and “better than gold, even fine gold” (Prov. 8:11, 19). When we set our minds on earthly things, such as wealth and passing glory, our “end is destruction” (Phil. 3:19). However, our humble and prudent Lord has rendered “to God the things that are God’s” (Matt. 22:21), namely, perfect fear, love, and trust, as well as the complete sacrifice for our sin. In so doing, He also rendered to Caesar the things of honor and justice, submitting to the law of the land that put Him on the cross. The true “riches and honor are with [Him],” because “enduring wealth and righteousness” (Prov. 8:18) are found in our heavenly citizenship from which “we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” He “will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself” (Phil. 3:20-21).
Nov 13, 202330:00
All Saints' Day (obs) AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. R. Eric Malmstrom
Revelation 7:2–17 / Psalm 149 / 1 John 3:1–3 / Matthew 5:1–12
Saints Are Blessed in the Eternal Presence of Christ
“A great multitude from all tribes and peoples and languages,” cry out “salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne” (Rev. 7:9–17). Faith-filled saints from every place and time with unified voices eternally magnify the Lamb of God. As His beloved children, we too, “shall see him as he is” (1 John 3:1–3). Joined with the throng of angels and a myriad of saints, we shall “serve him day and night in his temple” (Rev. 7:9–17). In our earthly tension vacillating between saint and sinner, faith and doubt, sacred and profane, we earnestly seek Jesus to calm our fears, comfort our spirits, and forgive our sins. The Holy Spirit, through faith in Christ propels us forward, fortifying us in Word and Sacrament, to our eternal home. In the midst of our constant struggle as believers, we need to be blessed. And so we are. The poor in spirit, the meek, the hungry, the thirsty, the merciful, the pure, and the persecuted are all blessed and we will most certainly inherit the kingdom of heaven (Matt. 5:1–12).
Revelation 7:2–17 / Psalm 149 / 1 John 3:1–3 / Matthew 5:1–12
Saints Are Blessed in the Eternal Presence of Christ
“A great multitude from all tribes and peoples and languages,” cry out “salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne” (Rev. 7:9–17). Faith-filled saints from every place and time with unified voices eternally magnify the Lamb of God. As His beloved children, we too, “shall see him as he is” (1 John 3:1–3). Joined with the throng of angels and a myriad of saints, we shall “serve him day and night in his temple” (Rev. 7:9–17). In our earthly tension vacillating between saint and sinner, faith and doubt, sacred and profane, we earnestly seek Jesus to calm our fears, comfort our spirits, and forgive our sins. The Holy Spirit, through faith in Christ propels us forward, fortifying us in Word and Sacrament, to our eternal home. In the midst of our constant struggle as believers, we need to be blessed. And so we are. The poor in spirit, the meek, the hungry, the thirsty, the merciful, the pure, and the persecuted are all blessed and we will most certainly inherit the kingdom of heaven (Matt. 5:1–12).
Nov 05, 202317:05
Reformation (obs) AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Revelation 14:6–7 / Psalm 46 / Romans 3:19–28 / John 8:31–36
The Son of God Has Set Us Free from Sin and Death by His Grace “Wisdom is justified by her deeds” (Matt. 11:19), and the true Wisdom of God, Christ Jesus the incarnate Son, justifies us by His deeds. He prepares His way by the preaching of repentance, but He has suffered the violence of the Law and voluntarily handed Himself over to violent men, that we might eat and drink with Him in His Kingdom and “remain in the house forever” (John 8:35). For He is “a friend of tax collectors and sinners” (Matt. 11:19), and He has rescued us by His grace from the slavery of sin and death. By the proclamation of His eternal Gospel “to those who dwell on earth, to every nation and tribe and language and people” (Rev. 14:6), “the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law” (Rom. 3:21), “that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus” (Rom. 3:26). And by hearing the Gospel of Christ Jesus, “whom God put forward as a propitiation by His blood, to be received by faith” (Rom. 3:25), “you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:31–32).
Oct 29, 202326:18
Trinity 20 AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Isaiah 54:17b—55:11* / Psalm 27 / Ephesians 5:15–21 / Matthew 22:1–14
Jesus Invites Us to His Wedding Feast to Receive Abundant Righteousness
The Holy Spirit sounds forth the Gospel call: “See, I have prepared my dinner ... Come to the wedding feast” (Matt. 22:1–14). But many reject this invitation in favor of worldly pursuits. And so the call goes out to others, both the good and the bad. For the wedding invitation is not based on the qualifications of those invited but on the basis of the merits and work of Christ. The feast is free: “He who has no money, come, buy and eat ... delight yourselves in rich food.” (Is. 55:1–9). Those rejecting the Spirit’s work shall experience God’s wrath and judgment. Those who are not clothed in Christ’s righteousness shall be cast into outer darkness where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Let us therefore seek the Lord while He may be found, for He will have mercy upon us. Let us redeem the time, being filled with the Spirit, giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ (Eph 5:15–21).
Isaiah 54:17b—55:11* / Psalm 27 / Ephesians 5:15–21 / Matthew 22:1–14
Jesus Invites Us to His Wedding Feast to Receive Abundant Righteousness
The Holy Spirit sounds forth the Gospel call: “See, I have prepared my dinner ... Come to the wedding feast” (Matt. 22:1–14). But many reject this invitation in favor of worldly pursuits. And so the call goes out to others, both the good and the bad. For the wedding invitation is not based on the qualifications of those invited but on the basis of the merits and work of Christ. The feast is free: “He who has no money, come, buy and eat ... delight yourselves in rich food.” (Is. 55:1–9). Those rejecting the Spirit’s work shall experience God’s wrath and judgment. Those who are not clothed in Christ’s righteousness shall be cast into outer darkness where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Let us therefore seek the Lord while He may be found, for He will have mercy upon us. Let us redeem the time, being filled with the Spirit, giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ (Eph 5:15–21).
Oct 22, 202326:07
Pregnancy and Infant Loss Memorial Service AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Psalm 130 Psalm 139:1–18 Revelation 21:1–7 Psalm 121 Romans 14:7–9 Isaiah 55:6–7 Psalm 38:21–22 Mark 10:13–16
Psalm 130 Psalm 139:1–18 Revelation 21:1–7 Psalm 121 Romans 14:7–9 Isaiah 55:6–7 Psalm 38:21–22 Mark 10:13–16
Oct 21, 202317:20
Sunago retreat: Trinity 19 AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Oct 15, 202319:25
Trinity 19 AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. R. Eric Malmstrom
Isaiah 44:21–23* / Psalm 84 / Ephesians 4:22–28 / Matthew 9:1–8
Jesus’ Incarnation Secures for Us Life, Forgiveness, and Healing
The Lord does not require us to ascend to Him; in mercy He descends to us (Gen. 28:10–17). The ladder in Jacob’s dream was not for climbing; it was the means by which the Lord came to bless Jacob. This event finds its fulfillment in Christ who descended from His throne to save and bless us. By His incarnation He is the eternal bridge between heaven and earth. “The Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins” (Matt. 9:1–8). The Lord was present in the flesh to absolve the paralytic. Jesus also healed and restored this man’s body. “For where there is forgiveness of sins, there is also life and salvation” (Small Catechism). The Lord still has power on earth to forgive sins. In holy absolution He raises up the new man (Eph. 4:22–28) and bestows the healing medicine which will bring about our resurrection on the Last Day. Thus we say with Jacob, “This is none other than the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven!” (Gen. 28:17)
Isaiah 44:21–23* / Psalm 84 / Ephesians 4:22–28 / Matthew 9:1–8
Jesus’ Incarnation Secures for Us Life, Forgiveness, and Healing
The Lord does not require us to ascend to Him; in mercy He descends to us (Gen. 28:10–17). The ladder in Jacob’s dream was not for climbing; it was the means by which the Lord came to bless Jacob. This event finds its fulfillment in Christ who descended from His throne to save and bless us. By His incarnation He is the eternal bridge between heaven and earth. “The Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins” (Matt. 9:1–8). The Lord was present in the flesh to absolve the paralytic. Jesus also healed and restored this man’s body. “For where there is forgiveness of sins, there is also life and salvation” (Small Catechism). The Lord still has power on earth to forgive sins. In holy absolution He raises up the new man (Eph. 4:22–28) and bestows the healing medicine which will bring about our resurrection on the Last Day. Thus we say with Jacob, “This is none other than the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven!” (Gen. 28:17)
Oct 15, 202318:54
Trinity 18 AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Deuteronomy 10:12–21 / Psalm 34:8–22 / 1 Corinthians 1:4–8* / Matthew 22:34–46
In Life and Death, Christ Fulfills the Law of God
The Pharisees ask a Law question. Jesus asks a Gospel question. The Pharisees seek to test Jesus in His own words. Jesus seeks to “test” them in the saving reality of who He is as the Messiah (Matt. 22:34–46). The Law requires you to “fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul” and to “love the sojourner” (Deut. 10:12–21). Failure to keep the Law perfectly brings judgment. On the other hand, the Gospel brings the grace of God given by Jesus Christ, that you may be blameless in the day of His return (1 Cor. 1:1–9). Jesus is David’s Son yet David’s Lord, true God and true man. He is Love incarnate who fulfilled all the demands of God’s Law on our behalf, that we might be saved from the Law’s condemnation and sanctified in the Gospel’s forgiveness. Thereby we see that “God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord” (1 Cor. 1:9).
Deuteronomy 10:12–21 / Psalm 34:8–22 / 1 Corinthians 1:4–8* / Matthew 22:34–46
In Life and Death, Christ Fulfills the Law of God
The Pharisees ask a Law question. Jesus asks a Gospel question. The Pharisees seek to test Jesus in His own words. Jesus seeks to “test” them in the saving reality of who He is as the Messiah (Matt. 22:34–46). The Law requires you to “fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul” and to “love the sojourner” (Deut. 10:12–21). Failure to keep the Law perfectly brings judgment. On the other hand, the Gospel brings the grace of God given by Jesus Christ, that you may be blameless in the day of His return (1 Cor. 1:1–9). Jesus is David’s Son yet David’s Lord, true God and true man. He is Love incarnate who fulfilled all the demands of God’s Law on our behalf, that we might be saved from the Law’s condemnation and sanctified in the Gospel’s forgiveness. Thereby we see that “God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord” (1 Cor. 1:9).
Oct 08, 202325:24
Trinity 17 AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Proverbs 25:6–14 / Psalm 2 / Ephesians 4:1–6 / Luke 14:1–11
Whoever Humbles Himself Will Be Exalted
“Do not put yourself forward in the king’s presence” (Prov. 25:6–14). Rather, take the lowest position at the table. Humble yourself before Him. For your place is not for you to take but for Him to give. Conduct yourself with all lowliness and gentleness, bearing with one another in love (Eph. 4:1–6), that the King may give you glory in the presence of those at the table with you. “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted” (Luke 14:1–11). Is this not the way of Christ? He is the one who took the lowest place, who humbled Himself even to the point of death for us. He is now exalted to the highest place at the right hand of the Father that penitent believers may be exalted together with Him in the resurrection. To the humble at His Supper He says, “Friend, move up higher,” giving you His very body and blood for your forgiveness that you may ascend to take part in the great wedding feast which has no end.
Proverbs 25:6–14 / Psalm 2 / Ephesians 4:1–6 / Luke 14:1–11
Whoever Humbles Himself Will Be Exalted
“Do not put yourself forward in the king’s presence” (Prov. 25:6–14). Rather, take the lowest position at the table. Humble yourself before Him. For your place is not for you to take but for Him to give. Conduct yourself with all lowliness and gentleness, bearing with one another in love (Eph. 4:1–6), that the King may give you glory in the presence of those at the table with you. “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted” (Luke 14:1–11). Is this not the way of Christ? He is the one who took the lowest place, who humbled Himself even to the point of death for us. He is now exalted to the highest place at the right hand of the Father that penitent believers may be exalted together with Him in the resurrection. To the humble at His Supper He says, “Friend, move up higher,” giving you His very body and blood for your forgiveness that you may ascend to take part in the great wedding feast which has no end.
Oct 01, 202326:06
St. Michael and All Angels (Michaelmas) (obs) AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Daniel 12:1–3* / Psalm 91 / Revelation 12:7–12 / Matthew 18:1–11
Our Father in Heaven Protects His Children by Giving His Holy Angels Charge Over Them
We live in “a time of trouble” (Dan. 12:1), in great tribulation; Satan and his wicked angels have been thrown out of heaven and have come down to earth “in great wrath,” with woeful “temptations to sin” and with constant accusations (Rev. 12:8–12; Matt. 18:7). Even so, we are encouraged by the presence and protection of St. Michael and the holy angels, whom God sends to help amid the strife (Dan. 10:11–13), and even the Second Person of the Most Holy Trinity, the Son of God Himself (Josh. 5: 13–15). By “the authority of his Christ,” His holy angels guard and keep us in body and soul. These heavenly servants of God preserve His human messengers on earth, the ministers of “the blood of the Lamb,” against all the power of the enemy; for by “the word of their testimony,” the Church is saved and the devil is defeated (Rev. 12:10–11; Luke 10:18–19). By their preaching and Baptism of repentance, the old Adam and the old evil foe are “drowned in the depth of the sea” (Matt. 18:6); and as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, so are His people delivered and raised from the dust of the earth through the forgiveness of their sins (Dan. 12:1–3).
Daniel 12:1–3* / Psalm 91 / Revelation 12:7–12 / Matthew 18:1–11
Our Father in Heaven Protects His Children by Giving His Holy Angels Charge Over Them
We live in “a time of trouble” (Dan. 12:1), in great tribulation; Satan and his wicked angels have been thrown out of heaven and have come down to earth “in great wrath,” with woeful “temptations to sin” and with constant accusations (Rev. 12:8–12; Matt. 18:7). Even so, we are encouraged by the presence and protection of St. Michael and the holy angels, whom God sends to help amid the strife (Dan. 10:11–13), and even the Second Person of the Most Holy Trinity, the Son of God Himself (Josh. 5: 13–15). By “the authority of his Christ,” His holy angels guard and keep us in body and soul. These heavenly servants of God preserve His human messengers on earth, the ministers of “the blood of the Lamb,” against all the power of the enemy; for by “the word of their testimony,” the Church is saved and the devil is defeated (Rev. 12:10–11; Luke 10:18–19). By their preaching and Baptism of repentance, the old Adam and the old evil foe are “drowned in the depth of the sea” (Matt. 18:6); and as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, so are His people delivered and raised from the dust of the earth through the forgiveness of their sins (Dan. 12:1–3).
Sep 24, 202326:56
Trinity 15 AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
1 Kings 17:8–16 / Psalm 146 / Galatians 5:25—6:10 / Matthew 6:24–34
Anxious Bondage vs. Confident Trust
“You cannot serve God and money” (Matt. 6:24–34), for they require two contrary forms of service. Worry is the worship given to the false god of mammon, an unbelieving anxiousness and focus on the things of this world. Faith is the worship of the true God, a confident trust that He is a loving Father who will care for all of our needs in both body and soul. The widow of Zarephath served God— that is, she believed the word of the Lord spoken by Elijah that the bin of flour would not be used up nor would the jar of oil run dry (1 Kings 17:8–16). He who feeds the birds and clothes the flowers will certainly provide for our daily needs. For He has already provided for our eternal needs, clothing us with Christ’s righteousness in Baptism and feeding us His body and blood for our forgiveness. With such confidence we are liberated from worry and freed to do good with our material resources, especially to those who are of the household of faith (Gal. 5:25–6:10).
1 Kings 17:8–16 / Psalm 146 / Galatians 5:25—6:10 / Matthew 6:24–34
Anxious Bondage vs. Confident Trust
“You cannot serve God and money” (Matt. 6:24–34), for they require two contrary forms of service. Worry is the worship given to the false god of mammon, an unbelieving anxiousness and focus on the things of this world. Faith is the worship of the true God, a confident trust that He is a loving Father who will care for all of our needs in both body and soul. The widow of Zarephath served God— that is, she believed the word of the Lord spoken by Elijah that the bin of flour would not be used up nor would the jar of oil run dry (1 Kings 17:8–16). He who feeds the birds and clothes the flowers will certainly provide for our daily needs. For He has already provided for our eternal needs, clothing us with Christ’s righteousness in Baptism and feeding us His body and blood for our forgiveness. With such confidence we are liberated from worry and freed to do good with our material resources, especially to those who are of the household of faith (Gal. 5:25–6:10).
Sep 17, 202327:29
Trinity 14 AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Proverbs 4:10–23 / Psalm 119:9–16 / Galatians 5:16–24 / Luke 17:11–19
Faith Cries “Lord, Have Mercy,” and Worships Jesus The ten lepers cried out from a distance, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” (Luke 17:11–19). Their condition cut them off from God and others. So also do the works of the flesh cut us off from God and others. “Those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God” (Gal. 5:16–24). Thus we cry out with the lepers, “Lord, have mercy; Christ, have mercy; Lord, have mercy,” eagerly seeking His good gifts. Jesus said to the lepers, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed. So too, we walk by faith and not by sight, being confident of Jesus’ help before we see any evidence of it, trusting that Jesus’ cleansing words of forgiveness will restore us to wholeness in the resurrection. Let us be as the one leper who returned to the true High Priest to give Him thanks and worship. For Jesus bore our infirmities in His sacrifice at Calvary. His words are life to those who find them, and health to all their flesh (Prov. 4:10–23). The Cry of Faith: Lord, Have Mercy The ten lepers cried out from a distance, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” (Luke 17:11–19). Their condition cut them off from God and others. So also do the works of the flesh cut us off from God and others. “Those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God” (Gal. 5:16–24). Thus we cry out with the lepers, “Lord, have mercy; Christ, have mercy; Lord, have mercy,” eagerly seeking His good gifts. Jesus said to the lepers, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed. So too, we walk by faith and not by sight, being confident of Jesus’ help before we see any evidence of it, trusting that Jesus’ cleansing words of forgiveness will restore us to wholeness in the resurrection. Let us be as the one leper who returned to the true High Priest to give Him thanks and glory. For Jesus bore our infirmities in His sacrifice at Calvary. His words are life to those who find them, and health to all their flesh (Prov. 4:10–23).
Sep 10, 202319:01
Trinity 13 AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Leviticus 19:9–18 / Psalm 32 / Galatians 3:15–22 / Luke 10:23–37
Jesus, Our Good Samaritan, Calls Us to Go and Do Likewise
The Law cannot help us or give us life. Rather, it confines everyone under sin as wounded and naked before God (Gal. 3:15–22). So it is that two figures of the Law, the priest and the Levite, passed by the injured man on the side of the road (Luke 10:23–37). Only the promised Seed of Abraham can rescue us and make us righteous before God. Only the Samaritan, our Lord Jesus, had compassion, as did the Samaritans of old (2 Chronicles 28:8–15). He came down to us in our lost and dying condition, pouring on the oil and wine of the Sacraments. He placed us on His own animal, bearing our sin and brokenness in His body on the cross to restore us. Jesus brought us to the inn, that is, the Church, and gave the innkeeper two denarii, that His double forgiveness might continue to be ministered to us. In this way the Lord, by whose Law we are torn and stricken, heals us and revives us by His Gospel and raises us up with Himself. Having been thus forgiven and restored, we joyfully look for opportunities to “go and do likewise.”
Leviticus 19:9–18 / Psalm 32 / Galatians 3:15–22 / Luke 10:23–37
Jesus, Our Good Samaritan, Calls Us to Go and Do Likewise
The Law cannot help us or give us life. Rather, it confines everyone under sin as wounded and naked before God (Gal. 3:15–22). So it is that two figures of the Law, the priest and the Levite, passed by the injured man on the side of the road (Luke 10:23–37). Only the promised Seed of Abraham can rescue us and make us righteous before God. Only the Samaritan, our Lord Jesus, had compassion, as did the Samaritans of old (2 Chronicles 28:8–15). He came down to us in our lost and dying condition, pouring on the oil and wine of the Sacraments. He placed us on His own animal, bearing our sin and brokenness in His body on the cross to restore us. Jesus brought us to the inn, that is, the Church, and gave the innkeeper two denarii, that His double forgiveness might continue to be ministered to us. In this way the Lord, by whose Law we are torn and stricken, heals us and revives us by His Gospel and raises us up with Himself. Having been thus forgiven and restored, we joyfully look for opportunities to “go and do likewise.”
Sep 03, 202325:36
Continuing Education Class AD 2023 Day 3 Itinerarium
Guest preacher: The Rev. Dr. James Bushur, Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN
Aug 31, 202312:08
Continuing Education Class AD 2023 Day 3 Matins
Guest preacher: The Rev. James Douthwaite, St. Athanasius, Vienna, VA; Hope Lutheran Mission, Hamilton, VA
Aug 31, 202309:45
Continuing Education Class AD 2023 Day 2 Vespers
Guest preacher: The Rev. Nigel Brown, Hope Lutheran Church, Hampton, VA
Aug 31, 202309:31
Continuing Education Class AD 2023 Day 2 Matins
Guest preacher: Sem. Kaleb Yaeger
Aug 30, 202312:01
Continuing Education Class AD 2023 Day 1 Vespers
Guest preacher: The Rev. Mark Schroeder, Concordia Lutheran Mission, Buena Vista, VA
Aug 29, 202310:19
Martyrdom of John the Baptist AD 2023
Guest preacher: The Rev. Christopher Burger - Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Columbia, SC
Aug 29, 202315:57
Trinity 12 AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
Isaiah 29:17–24 / Psalm 146 / 2 Corinthians 3:4–11 / Mark 7:31–37
Faith Comes from Hearing
A man who was deaf and therefore also had an impediment in his speech was brought to Jesus (Mark 7:31–37). In the same way, all are by nature deaf toward God and therefore also unable to confess the faith rightly. For “faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ” (Rom. 10:9–17). Jesus put His fingers into the man’s ears, and He spat and touched His tongue. Even so in Holy Baptism, water sanctified by the words of Jesus’ mouth is applied to us; and the finger of God, that is, the life–giving Holy Spirit (2 Cor. 3:4–11) is put into our ears in the hearing of the baptismal Gospel. Jesus’ sighing “Ephphatha,” opened the man’s ears, and his tongue was loosed to speak rightly as Isaiah prophesied of the Messiah, “In that day the deaf shall hear the words of a book” (Is. 29:18–24) So also, He who sighed and breathed His last on the cross for us has given us to hear and believe in Him and has opened our lips that our mouths may rightly declare His praise.
Isaiah 29:17–24 / Psalm 146 / 2 Corinthians 3:4–11 / Mark 7:31–37
Faith Comes from Hearing
A man who was deaf and therefore also had an impediment in his speech was brought to Jesus (Mark 7:31–37). In the same way, all are by nature deaf toward God and therefore also unable to confess the faith rightly. For “faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ” (Rom. 10:9–17). Jesus put His fingers into the man’s ears, and He spat and touched His tongue. Even so in Holy Baptism, water sanctified by the words of Jesus’ mouth is applied to us; and the finger of God, that is, the life–giving Holy Spirit (2 Cor. 3:4–11) is put into our ears in the hearing of the baptismal Gospel. Jesus’ sighing “Ephphatha,” opened the man’s ears, and his tongue was loosed to speak rightly as Isaiah prophesied of the Messiah, “In that day the deaf shall hear the words of a book” (Is. 29:18–24) So also, He who sighed and breathed His last on the cross for us has given us to hear and believe in Him and has opened our lips that our mouths may rightly declare His praise.
Aug 27, 202321:60
Trinity 11 AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. R. Eric Malmstrom
Genesis 4:1–15 / Psalm 50:7–23 / 1 Corinthians 15:1–10 / Luke 18:9–14
The Lord Lifts Up the Lowly
“And the Lord had regard for Abel and his offering, but for Cain and his offering he had no regard” (Gen. 4:1–15). For unlike Abel, Cain’s offering did not proceed from a heart that revered and trusted in the Lord. Thus, the lowly tax collector who prayed, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner!” was the one who went down to his house justified before God, not the respectable, outwardly righteous Pharisee who trusted in himself and his own good living (Luke 18:9–14). “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast” (Eph. 2:1–10). The one who penitently despairs of his own righteousness and relies completely on the atoning mercy of God in Christ is the one who is declared righteous. For Christ died for our sins and rose again the third day (1 Cor. 15:1–10). Therefore, “everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”
Genesis 4:1–15 / Psalm 50:7–23 / 1 Corinthians 15:1–10 / Luke 18:9–14
The Lord Lifts Up the Lowly
“And the Lord had regard for Abel and his offering, but for Cain and his offering he had no regard” (Gen. 4:1–15). For unlike Abel, Cain’s offering did not proceed from a heart that revered and trusted in the Lord. Thus, the lowly tax collector who prayed, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner!” was the one who went down to his house justified before God, not the respectable, outwardly righteous Pharisee who trusted in himself and his own good living (Luke 18:9–14). “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast” (Eph. 2:1–10). The one who penitently despairs of his own righteousness and relies completely on the atoning mercy of God in Christ is the one who is declared righteous. For Christ died for our sins and rose again the third day (1 Cor. 15:1–10). Therefore, “everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”
Aug 20, 202316:16
Trinity 10 AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. R. Eric Malmstrom
Jeremiah 7:1–11 / Psalm 92 / 1 Corinthians 12:1–11 / Luke 19:41–48
Jesus Weeps for Jerusalem
Our Lord wept over Jerusalem for the destruction that would soon come upon her. For she did not recognize the time of God’s visitation in Christ, who had come to bring her peace (Luke 19:41–48). Through His prophets God had consistently called His people to turn from their deceit and false worship. “But My people do not know the judgments of the Lord” (Jer. 8:4–12). They sought to establish their own righteousness rather than receive Christ’s righteousness through faith (Rom. 9:30–10:4). So it was that God was in His temple to cleanse it, a precursor to the once-for-all cleansing from sin which He would accomplish in the temple of His own body on the cross. God grant us to know the things that make for our peace—His visitation in the Word and Sacraments—that by the Holy Spirit we may penitently confess “Jesus is Lord” (1 Cor. 12:1–11).
Jeremiah 7:1–11 / Psalm 92 / 1 Corinthians 12:1–11 / Luke 19:41–48
Jesus Weeps for Jerusalem
Our Lord wept over Jerusalem for the destruction that would soon come upon her. For she did not recognize the time of God’s visitation in Christ, who had come to bring her peace (Luke 19:41–48). Through His prophets God had consistently called His people to turn from their deceit and false worship. “But My people do not know the judgments of the Lord” (Jer. 8:4–12). They sought to establish their own righteousness rather than receive Christ’s righteousness through faith (Rom. 9:30–10:4). So it was that God was in His temple to cleanse it, a precursor to the once-for-all cleansing from sin which He would accomplish in the temple of His own body on the cross. God grant us to know the things that make for our peace—His visitation in the Word and Sacraments—that by the Holy Spirit we may penitently confess “Jesus is Lord” (1 Cor. 12:1–11).
Aug 13, 202316:16
Trinity 9 AD 2023
Preacher: The Rev. Aaron E. Yaeger
2 Samuel 22:26–34 / Psalm 51:1–12 / 1 Corinthians 10:6–13 / Luke 16:1–9
The Steward’s Shrewdness Sanctified
“The master commended the dishonest manager for his shrewdness” (Luke 16:1–9). The steward’s shrewdness is praiseworthy for two reasons. First, he knew the master would be merciful. He trusted that the master would honor the debts he forgave in the master’s name. In the same way, though we have squandered our heavenly Father’s possessions in selfishness and sin, Jesus is the Steward who has canceled our debt, knowing that His forgiveness will be honored by the Father because of the holy cross. Secondly, the steward was shrewd in using oil and wheat to provide for his earthly welfare. So also do these earthly elements aid us when pressed into heavenly use in the anointing of baptism and the wheat of the Lord’s Supper. Those who have the Sacraments will have an eternal home when their earthly home fails. These provide us aid in times of temptation (1 Cor. 10:6–13). For the Lord is our strength and a shield to all who trust in Him (2 Sam. 22:26–34).
Aug 06, 202331:55