Well I tell you what, I have not had the greatest weekend, so you might say that 2011 is leaving me with a bad taste in my mouth. But to try and sum up the whole year in terms of it ending badly would not particularly be honest. In fact, 2011 is like most years, I suspect. There have been challenges, ups and downs, blessings, and difficulties, things to rejoice about, and things to mourn.
In 2011 our seminary class from Concordia, St. Louis celebrated 10 years in the ministry. We also lost several of our colleageus-who are now with our Lord enjoying eternal life with Christ. In my own ministry-the Lord has blessed us this year with a DCE intern. This was my first venture into being an internship supervisor. It has been both challenging and rewarding--not to mention a huge blessing for our youth at Peace Lutheran. Ministry continues to be challenging and rewarding as well--though I can't think of another thing that I would want to do. I certainly do enjoy being a pastor, even at the most difficult and frustrating times. Because in the end, I get to feed people with God's Word, and help them to get to know Christ Jesus and the love that God has for them.
This year also saw the death of my grandmother--Ruth Joost. She had been battling Alzheimer's disease for a very long time. We were saddened by her death, but know that she is no longer suffering, and is with our Lord. It was also good to get to see everyone again, even if for such a short time, and at a funeral. I am very thankful for my church family at Peace, who made the trip home possible.
In happier news, 2011 was the year that my wife Amy and I were finally both able to go to Disney World. But we were both mostly thankful that we were able to take our children there to experience it in their youth. Though I have to say, I felt like a kid again a few times while we were there. There are so many people to thank for us being able to have such a great experience and wonderful vacation, that I would probably leave too many people out if I made a list--so I will thank EVERYONE who helped us have an awesome vacation, but especially Jenna Nagel and the Nagel family.
The very end of this year has not been the greatest, as I already mentioned. I won't go into detail, but I will just say that dispite the difficulties, I recognize that God will be using these things for the good of His purposes--though we might not always know what those might be, especially not right away.
All in all, I guess 2011 wasn't so bad. As I mentioned, it is probably like most years with lots of ups and downs. I certainly have learned a lot this past year from both good and bad experiences. I hope that you have to. And I will take with me what I have learned into this new year. I praise God for all of the expereinces that He has given me, and I look foreward to what 2012 will bring.
God's continued blessings to you all in 2012. Happy New Year everyody, and thanks for reading!
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Saturday, December 24, 2011
And it came to pass....
Luke 2:1-20
And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. [2] (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) [3] And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. [4] And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) [5] To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. [6] And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. [7] And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. [8] And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. [9] And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. [10] And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. [11] For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. [12] And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. [13] And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, [14] Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. [15] And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. [16] And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. [17] And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. [18] And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. [19] But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. [20] And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.
I have preached many a sermon in the last 10 years on this text. There is a whole lot to preach on in it. You can approach this text from many different angles. Good thing too. It can be difficult to give a fresh new message each year when you are telling the same story basically. But the thing about the birth of Christ is that it never gets old.
I would have to say that my favorite angle to take is probably that of the shepherds. Here they are, minding their own business, watching their sheep at night, and all of a sudden their whole world is changed in an instant. They have no idea what is in store for them that night as they lay on the ground trying to catch a few z's.
Just a few lowly unsuspecting guys tending some smelly, dirty sheep in a field outside of Bethlehem. And what to thier wandering eyes should appear? No, not jolly old Saint Nick and 8 reindeer. But an angel. Actually The Angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord showed around them.
And thier reaction? A typical reaction to angels....they were filled with great fear. But also typical of angel sightings in the Bible--they are bringing Good News! And that good news of great joy was for all people. And the angel said that "Unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior which is Christ the Lord."
And these shepherds who were filled with fear just a moment before, were now filled with joy and excitement at the news. And then at that moment a multitude of angels appeared praising God in the crisp night sky. Can you imagine?
And the response of the shepherds was to stay frozen in fear right there in their tracks in that field....NO! Their response was "Let us go and see this thing which HAS HAPPENED." It's important to note that they believed what the angels told them, and did not say "to see IF this thing has happened."
And they went to see this Christ child and worshiped him. "Come and worship, come and worship, worship Christ the newborn King!" And then they left, and WITNESSED to everyone they saw about what had been told to them.
We have the same opportunity as the shepherds you know! I think that's what draws me to the shepherds in this story. We are not unlike them. We are told about Christ. We have the opportunity to GO and experience Him and celebrate His birth. And we have the opportunity to worship Christ and to tell others about the salvation that the Lord sent down to us in human flesh.
I pray that you would find a place tonight or tomorrow to go and worship the Savior who is Christ the Lord, born to save us from our sin. Celebrate the gift that God has given to you in His only Son Jesus! And the peace of Christ be with you all!
Thank you for reading and God bless us every one!
And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. [2] (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) [3] And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. [4] And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) [5] To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. [6] And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. [7] And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. [8] And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. [9] And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. [10] And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. [11] For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. [12] And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. [13] And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, [14] Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. [15] And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. [16] And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. [17] And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. [18] And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. [19] But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. [20] And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.
I have preached many a sermon in the last 10 years on this text. There is a whole lot to preach on in it. You can approach this text from many different angles. Good thing too. It can be difficult to give a fresh new message each year when you are telling the same story basically. But the thing about the birth of Christ is that it never gets old.
I would have to say that my favorite angle to take is probably that of the shepherds. Here they are, minding their own business, watching their sheep at night, and all of a sudden their whole world is changed in an instant. They have no idea what is in store for them that night as they lay on the ground trying to catch a few z's.
Just a few lowly unsuspecting guys tending some smelly, dirty sheep in a field outside of Bethlehem. And what to thier wandering eyes should appear? No, not jolly old Saint Nick and 8 reindeer. But an angel. Actually The Angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord showed around them.
And thier reaction? A typical reaction to angels....they were filled with great fear. But also typical of angel sightings in the Bible--they are bringing Good News! And that good news of great joy was for all people. And the angel said that "Unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior which is Christ the Lord."
And these shepherds who were filled with fear just a moment before, were now filled with joy and excitement at the news. And then at that moment a multitude of angels appeared praising God in the crisp night sky. Can you imagine?
And the response of the shepherds was to stay frozen in fear right there in their tracks in that field....NO! Their response was "Let us go and see this thing which HAS HAPPENED." It's important to note that they believed what the angels told them, and did not say "to see IF this thing has happened."
And they went to see this Christ child and worshiped him. "Come and worship, come and worship, worship Christ the newborn King!" And then they left, and WITNESSED to everyone they saw about what had been told to them.
We have the same opportunity as the shepherds you know! I think that's what draws me to the shepherds in this story. We are not unlike them. We are told about Christ. We have the opportunity to GO and experience Him and celebrate His birth. And we have the opportunity to worship Christ and to tell others about the salvation that the Lord sent down to us in human flesh.
I pray that you would find a place tonight or tomorrow to go and worship the Savior who is Christ the Lord, born to save us from our sin. Celebrate the gift that God has given to you in His only Son Jesus! And the peace of Christ be with you all!
Thank you for reading and God bless us every one!
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
With God All Things Are Possible
It never fails....more often than not, God does some excellent planning and things just seem to all come together at the same time, without my even planning on it. Well, it has happened again this week. Tomorrow, I have my Thursday morning Bible Study, in which we are studying Genesis. We are on chapter 18, in which 3 "visitors" come to spend some time with Abraham and Sarah. The purpose is for an announcement [annunciation] that Sarah will have a son. The story contiues with Sarah laughing (again) at this prospect, because "After I am worn out and my lord is old shall I have pleasure?" And the answer from the Lord: "IS ANYTHING TOO HARD FOR THE LORD?"
Take that together with the fact that I am holding chapel for our preschoolers tomorrow, and what should we be learning about but Luke 1:26-38. That's right! The ANNUNCIATION of Jesus' birth to Mary from the angel Gabriel. Though she did not laugh, Mary's reaction was one of shock and awe, and doubt: "How will this be, since I am a Virgin?" And Gabriel's answer to Mary was: "FOR NOTHING WILL BE IMPOSSIBLE WITH GOD!"
We sometimes place limitations on God based on our own abilities, nature, logic or any other human estimations we may use. Like Sarah and Mary, and anyone else for that matter, we tend to have momentary lapses where we forget that God is ALMIGHTY, and what that actually means. It means that God has the power to do what He says....the power to keep His promises.
During this season of Advent [of preparation and waiting] let us be mindful of all the promises that He has kept (and not just to Sarah and Mary)--but to us all. Especially let us remember that He promised a Savior, Jesus Christ our Lord; who has promised to return in glory to judge the living and the dead. May we trust in those words that "Nothing will be impossible with God," as we await His return in faith, hope, and love.
Thank you for reading, and God bless your Advent and Christmas season!
Take that together with the fact that I am holding chapel for our preschoolers tomorrow, and what should we be learning about but Luke 1:26-38. That's right! The ANNUNCIATION of Jesus' birth to Mary from the angel Gabriel. Though she did not laugh, Mary's reaction was one of shock and awe, and doubt: "How will this be, since I am a Virgin?" And Gabriel's answer to Mary was: "FOR NOTHING WILL BE IMPOSSIBLE WITH GOD!"
We sometimes place limitations on God based on our own abilities, nature, logic or any other human estimations we may use. Like Sarah and Mary, and anyone else for that matter, we tend to have momentary lapses where we forget that God is ALMIGHTY, and what that actually means. It means that God has the power to do what He says....the power to keep His promises.
During this season of Advent [of preparation and waiting] let us be mindful of all the promises that He has kept (and not just to Sarah and Mary)--but to us all. Especially let us remember that He promised a Savior, Jesus Christ our Lord; who has promised to return in glory to judge the living and the dead. May we trust in those words that "Nothing will be impossible with God," as we await His return in faith, hope, and love.
Thank you for reading, and God bless your Advent and Christmas season!
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
For All the Saints: On the death of my grandmother.
FOR ALL THE SAINTS, WHO FROM THEIR LABORS REST!!!!!!
This Sunday we will be celebrating All Saints Sunday. On that day, during our worship service, it is traditional for us to state the names of the saints who have departed in faith in Jesus Christ in the past year (eg. since the first Sunday in November 2010). After each name is read, we play one bell ring. This year I will be thinking about my Grandma Ruth as we do this. Her funeral was a week ago in Steeleville, IL. I knew about my grandmother's faith, just from growing up with her and being around her so much. She was also my proxy-baptismal sponsor, and taught me a lot about Jesus. But it was special for me to hear about her faith in Jesus from others who knew her well and had seen/heard her speak of it, or how she lived her life.
When I do a funeral message for somebody, it is their faith that matters to me. That is what I am concentrating on when I speak about them. Sure, I might try to capture their personality in the message, but I always want to come back to their faith in Christ Jesus our Lord. I thank the pastor at Peace Lutheran in Steeleville for doing the same regarding my grandmother's life.
This Sunday, I would encourage you to think about loved ones that you have lost, and hopefully also about their faith in Jesus Christ. May God be praised for the love He has shown to us in His Son Christ Jesus!
Thank you for reading and God bless all of you saints!!!!
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Why I like the Saint Louis Cardinals...
Why I like the STL Cardinals
I guess it goes back to being born in Saint Louis, and living in close proximity to "The STL" (my affectionate name for my hometown) for all of my childhood, and much of my adolescent and young adult life. No matter where I roam, Missouri will always be my home. (To my friends in South Dakota, don't fret, I love living in the Black Hills, and have no plans to leave any time soon).
One of the benefits of being an Eastern Missouri boy is being part of the best fans in all of baseball--A STL Cardinal fan. There is nothing like the sea of RED/WHITE you experience when you are watching a Cardinal baseball game. Whether sitting in the seats at Old Busch Stadium, or the New Busch Stadium (something I have not done yet), or watching at home on the tv or cumputer(thanks brother Steve), it is a wonderful sight. And the Cardinal fans are so knowledgable about baseball. You hear commentators in the media talk about this often! We are polite, with the occasional jerk who usually has been drinking too much being the exception. While attending games, I have had fans of rival teams express this about Cardinal fans.
HISTORY--What a rich, long, and storied history the STL Cardinals have had. Last night winning thier 11th World Series in club history! Sure there have been ups and downs, joys and disappointments; but you will find that with any sports team in any sport.
The Cardinals are exciting to watch. Sure they nearly give me near heart-attacks more often than not, but I must admit, they keep me on the edge of my seat and wanting to watch. Did you happen to see game six on Thursday night? What a terrible 8 innings by both teams. But the 9th-11th innings were nothing short of spectacular. That is Cardinal Baseball!
The list of players we have had....Rogers Hornsby(1920's), The Gashouse Gang (1934), Dizzy Dean and Joe Medwick (1930's), Stan "the man" Musial (1941-1963), Red Schoendienst(40's-60's), Enos Slaughter (1940's), Bob Gibson (1960's), Lou Brock (60's-70's), Joe Torre (1970's and later in the 90's as manager), Ozzie Smith, Whitey Herzog(manager 80's), Darrel Porter, Bob Forsch, Willie McGee, Tommy Herr, Ken Oberkfell, Bruce Sutter, Keith Hernandez (all in the 80's), Mark McGwire(90's), Albert Pujols, Jim Edmonds, David Eckstein, Chris Carpenter, Yadier Molina, Darrel Kile, Matt Holliday, and most recently--Lance Berkmann and the 2011 WS MVP David Freese [a hometown hero](2000's-2010's). Of course, "TLR", "Don Tony" Tony LaRussa(1990's-2010's). And last but not least, the long-time voice of the Cardinals, Jack Buck (1954-2001). Nothing like a warm July night sitting and listening to Jack Buck's voice on KMOX-STL and another Cards win!
Memories...I remember (vaguely) my first Cardinal game. I remember seeing Lou Brock running the bases. I wished I could be like him--he was very fast. And I was fast too (as a kid.) I remember seeing Ozzie Smith in the parking garage after a game I had been to. We were about 10 yards from him and his family. The 1982 World Series win against the Brewers. That was exciting! Taking my son to his first game (a 1-0 pitching duel win against Roger Clemens). The World Series win in 2006. And last night's 11th World Series against a very good Texas Rangers team.
And that's why I like the Cardinals. You never know what to expect, but you know it is probably going to be exciting. When nobody gave them a chance to even make the playoffs this year, they fought and fought to get in after being 10 1/2 games out of the Wild Card in late August. Then they beat the best team in baseball this year in the Philidelphia Philies. They followed that up with their newest and best rival of late, the Milwaukee Brewers(the 2nd best NL team this year). And in the World Series they battled from behind time after time to win 11 in '11.
To my STL Cardinals....You have given me much excitement, joy and celebration. Thank you for never giving up this year when things looked impossible!
And one more thing....Albert Pujols, you won't look good in anything but a Cardinal uniform! This is your hometown, and they love you. Stay put El Hombre! #5
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Why Go To Church?
"The Church's one foundation is Jesus Christ her Lord" LSB #644
I just got through listening to Dr. Norman Nagel on Issues Etc. You can find this in the archives of the Issues Etc. website. http://issuesetc.org/ It is entitled, "Why Go To Church?"
It got me to thinking about all of the reasons people give for why they do or do not go to church. So this particular blog posting is going to be a more interactive one. I would invite all of you to give your reasons for why you go to church, or why you do not. I expect that I will probably get many of the responses I often hear as a pastor, but I think pastors are much better served when they understand what they are dealing with. And they understand better what they are dealing with when people are open and honest about things like this issue.
You do not have to respond to this post, it is entirely up to you if you do. At the very least, I would invite you once again to consider listening to Dr. Nagel's spot on Issues Etc. about this important topic. I feel there is a whole lot of misunderstanding about this particular aspect of faith in Christ, and it deserves some time spent taking a real hard look at what people are thinking in terms of worshiping God.
Thank you for reading and may the Lord of the Church bring His grace to you in those ways He has chosen to feed you.
I just got through listening to Dr. Norman Nagel on Issues Etc. You can find this in the archives of the Issues Etc. website. http://issuesetc.org/ It is entitled, "Why Go To Church?"
It got me to thinking about all of the reasons people give for why they do or do not go to church. So this particular blog posting is going to be a more interactive one. I would invite all of you to give your reasons for why you go to church, or why you do not. I expect that I will probably get many of the responses I often hear as a pastor, but I think pastors are much better served when they understand what they are dealing with. And they understand better what they are dealing with when people are open and honest about things like this issue.
You do not have to respond to this post, it is entirely up to you if you do. At the very least, I would invite you once again to consider listening to Dr. Nagel's spot on Issues Etc. about this important topic. I feel there is a whole lot of misunderstanding about this particular aspect of faith in Christ, and it deserves some time spent taking a real hard look at what people are thinking in terms of worshiping God.
Thank you for reading and may the Lord of the Church bring His grace to you in those ways He has chosen to feed you.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Columbus Day
I decided to post something today about a "holiday" that is not particularly celebrated, or in some cases even observed at all. Here in South Dakota, it is called "Native American Day" and the schools and all government facilites are shut down. Does your state, city, or town celebrate this day? Oh yeah, and our Northern border friends in Canada are celebrating Thanksgiving today. I think I would rather have a 2nd Thanksgiving!!! (Thank you Wikipedia for the info!)
Many countries in the New World and elsewhere celebrate the anniversary of Christopher Columbus's arrival in the Americas, which occurred on October 12, 1492, as an official holiday. The event is celebrated as Columbus Day in the United States, as DÃa de la Raza in many countries in Latin America, as Discovery Day in the Bahamas, as DÃa de la Hispanidad and Fiesta Nacional in Spain and as DÃa de las Américas (Day of the Americas) in Uruguay. These holidays have been celebrated unofficially since the late 18th century, and officially in various areas since the early 20th century.
Non-observance
Hawaii, Alaska and South Dakota are the three states that do not recognize Columbus Day at all, though Hawaii and South Dakota mark the day with an alternative holiday or observance. Hawaii celebrates Discoverers' Day, which commemorates the Polynesian discoverers of Hawaii on the same date, the second Monday of October.[13] [14] though the name change has not ended protest related to the observance of Columbus' discovery.[15][16] The state government does not treat either Columbus Day or Discoverers' Day as a legal holiday;[17] state, city and county government offices and schools are open for business. South Dakota celebrates the day as officially a state holiday known as "Native American Day" rather than Columbus Day.[18] Nevada does not celebrate Columbus Day as an official holiday; however, the governor is "authorized and requested" by statute to proclaim the day each year.[19] This probably has less to do with any objection to the celebration of the day than the fact that it's relatively close to Nevada Day, and schools and banks can only be closed for so many days.
Several other states have removed Columbus Day as a paid holiday for government workers while still maintaining it either as a day of recognition or a legal holiday for other purposes. These include California[20][21][22] and Texas.[23]
In 2007, Dane County Wisconsin Supervisor Ashok Kumar replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous People's Day.[24] The city of Berkeley, California has replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous People's Day since 1992,[25] a move which has been replicated by several other localities.[26] Two other California cities, Sebastopol and Santa Cruz, now celebrate Indigenous People's Day.[26] South Dakota renamed the holiday "Native American Day".[27] Various tribal governments in Oklahoma designate the day "Native American Day", or name the day after their own tribe.
Many countries in the New World and elsewhere celebrate the anniversary of Christopher Columbus's arrival in the Americas, which occurred on October 12, 1492, as an official holiday. The event is celebrated as Columbus Day in the United States, as DÃa de la Raza in many countries in Latin America, as Discovery Day in the Bahamas, as DÃa de la Hispanidad and Fiesta Nacional in Spain and as DÃa de las Américas (Day of the Americas) in Uruguay. These holidays have been celebrated unofficially since the late 18th century, and officially in various areas since the early 20th century.
History
Columbus Day first became an official state holiday in Colorado in 1906, and became a federal holiday in 1937. However, people have celebrated Columbus' voyage since the colonial period. In 1792, New York City and other U.S. cities celebrated the 300th anniversary of his landing in the New World. In 1892, President Benjamin Harrison called upon the people of the United States to celebrate Columbus Day on the 400th anniversary of the event. During the four hundredth anniversary, in 1892, teachers, preachers, poets and politicians used Columbus Day rituals to teach ideals of patriotism. These patriotic rituals were framed around themes such as support for war, citizenship boundaries, the importance of loyalty to the nation, and celebrating social progress.[1]Non-observance
Hawaii, Alaska and South Dakota are the three states that do not recognize Columbus Day at all, though Hawaii and South Dakota mark the day with an alternative holiday or observance. Hawaii celebrates Discoverers' Day, which commemorates the Polynesian discoverers of Hawaii on the same date, the second Monday of October.[13] [14] though the name change has not ended protest related to the observance of Columbus' discovery.[15][16] The state government does not treat either Columbus Day or Discoverers' Day as a legal holiday;[17] state, city and county government offices and schools are open for business. South Dakota celebrates the day as officially a state holiday known as "Native American Day" rather than Columbus Day.[18] Nevada does not celebrate Columbus Day as an official holiday; however, the governor is "authorized and requested" by statute to proclaim the day each year.[19] This probably has less to do with any objection to the celebration of the day than the fact that it's relatively close to Nevada Day, and schools and banks can only be closed for so many days.
Several other states have removed Columbus Day as a paid holiday for government workers while still maintaining it either as a day of recognition or a legal holiday for other purposes. These include California[20][21][22] and Texas.[23]
In 2007, Dane County Wisconsin Supervisor Ashok Kumar replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous People's Day.[24] The city of Berkeley, California has replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous People's Day since 1992,[25] a move which has been replicated by several other localities.[26] Two other California cities, Sebastopol and Santa Cruz, now celebrate Indigenous People's Day.[26] South Dakota renamed the holiday "Native American Day".[27] Various tribal governments in Oklahoma designate the day "Native American Day", or name the day after their own tribe.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Parenting and Faith: Part 2
Once again, I apologize for my lack of posting. Recently I have had multiple responsibilities at church that were above and beyond my usual work. Thank you for your patience....AGAIN!
Deut. 6:4-7
"Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. [5] You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. [6] And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. [7] You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.
The way God sees it, parents have a very important responsibility. A very important "vocation" to use one of Luther's favorite ideas. And as parents, we are to DILIGENTLY teach God's Words to our children. Now you are not without HELP in doing this. The church is ever present to assist parents in teaching your children about Jesus, our Savior. But the primary responsibility lies with the parents. For example, in our baptism liturgy, here is the wording that I fear most parents/sponsors do not understand or pay close attention to: God enable you both to will and to do this faithful and loving work and with His grace fulfill what we are unable to do. Admittedly, this statement is made to the sponsors, who are to serve the baptismal candidate in the Christian faith. But again, the primary responsibility for feeding the faith of the child belongs with the parents.
Look at the verses above from Deuteronomy 6. Think about all the places and times that God desires for parents to be feeding the faith of their children: "when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise."
Think about the ways and the times each day that you as parents teach your children about Jesus, and share with them God's Word, or pray with them. Are they seeing how important it is in your life? Do they seem to think that it is important?
I encourage you to reflect on these important verses from Deuteronomy, and also to think about how great an importance God places on following through with His command.
Something that might help you in thinking about this is to also read Matthew 28:19-20. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, [20] teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
Thank you for reading, and remember that God is with you always, and will help you to teach your children about Jesus and share God's Word with them!
Deut. 6:4-7
"Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. [5] You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. [6] And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. [7] You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.
The way God sees it, parents have a very important responsibility. A very important "vocation" to use one of Luther's favorite ideas. And as parents, we are to DILIGENTLY teach God's Words to our children. Now you are not without HELP in doing this. The church is ever present to assist parents in teaching your children about Jesus, our Savior. But the primary responsibility lies with the parents. For example, in our baptism liturgy, here is the wording that I fear most parents/sponsors do not understand or pay close attention to: God enable you both to will and to do this faithful and loving work and with His grace fulfill what we are unable to do. Admittedly, this statement is made to the sponsors, who are to serve the baptismal candidate in the Christian faith. But again, the primary responsibility for feeding the faith of the child belongs with the parents.
Look at the verses above from Deuteronomy 6. Think about all the places and times that God desires for parents to be feeding the faith of their children: "when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise."
Think about the ways and the times each day that you as parents teach your children about Jesus, and share with them God's Word, or pray with them. Are they seeing how important it is in your life? Do they seem to think that it is important?
I encourage you to reflect on these important verses from Deuteronomy, and also to think about how great an importance God places on following through with His command.
Something that might help you in thinking about this is to also read Matthew 28:19-20. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, [20] teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
Thank you for reading, and remember that God is with you always, and will help you to teach your children about Jesus and share God's Word with them!
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Parenting and Faith: Part 1
I apologize for the delay in blogging recently. I have had a whole lot on my plate lately, and we were also in the process of switching computers at the office. I appreciate the patience of my readers. I thought that it might be good to do a series on parenting, perhaps in anticipation of a future parenting class here at Peace Lutheran. It has been an idea I have long been wrestling with.
Train up a child in the way he should go;
even when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6
Before I go on, I should write a disclaimer, that I am certainly not an expert on parenting, nor do I claim to be one. My hope is that as I work through some challenging parenting issues, it might be helpful to some parents as well as myself.
As a pastor, I frequently am reminded of the passage above from Proverbs 22. Most people who quote it to me are frustrated at seeing their adult children and/or grandchildren/great-grandchildren no longer attending church and worshiping God. Their frustration comes at the fact that they DID "train up their children in the way they should go."
While I understand thier frustrations, more than they know, it is not as simple as the Proverb makes it sound. What I think people are forgetting are actually a number of other factors involved. I see a lot of parents forcing thier children to come to confirmation. What kind of a message does "I had to do it so you have to do it too" send? I beleive that it sends a message that this really isn't important, but it's just something that you have to do, so jump through the hoops so we can mark this off the church-TO DO LIST. When confirmation day comes and goes, so does the worship attendance of many. What many parents don't know is that I can tell within the first two weeks of confirmation who is taking it seriously and who is not.
Another factor is that when their children grow up, they are making thier own choices and decisions. Sometimes, and in some cases often, those decisions are bad ones, or choices that lead to destruction or awful consequences. At the very least it is not what we would have them choose, but we say nothing to them because they are adults. My question is, are you no longer their parent? Do you feel like, "Well I have done the best I could at raising them, but they are on their own now, and I have to trust that they will start making better decisions"?
What about at home? It seems like much is left undone by parents who feel that the church will handle all things pertaining to faith. How many parents are praying with their children? It begins with the parents having a prayerful relationship with God. If that isn't happening, the chances are that thier children are not growing up learning how important and vital prayer is for their lives.
How about daily devotions? I realize that time constraints have taken hold of many families, and there doesn't seem to be enough time in the day for all the things we have to do. I am right there with you on that one! But according to the 1st commandment, is it right for us to try and maybe place God in some time slot, if there is even one available? Or should we make God our number one priority each and every day?
I can tell you this, and I know I am not alone in feeling this way...On days when I put God first in my life, and do devotions to start my day off, and pray about all the things on my mind and overflowing in my schedule, I have a whole lot less stress in knowing that God is there beside me, guiding my life and decisions.
Perhaps as parents, we should take a deeper look at some of these things I have mentioned, and put them into practice. If nothing else, it will serve to show our children just how important they are for our lives and faith.
Thank you for reading and God bless. More on Parenting and Faith tomorrow!
Train up a child in the way he should go;
even when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6
Before I go on, I should write a disclaimer, that I am certainly not an expert on parenting, nor do I claim to be one. My hope is that as I work through some challenging parenting issues, it might be helpful to some parents as well as myself.
As a pastor, I frequently am reminded of the passage above from Proverbs 22. Most people who quote it to me are frustrated at seeing their adult children and/or grandchildren/great-grandchildren no longer attending church and worshiping God. Their frustration comes at the fact that they DID "train up their children in the way they should go."
While I understand thier frustrations, more than they know, it is not as simple as the Proverb makes it sound. What I think people are forgetting are actually a number of other factors involved. I see a lot of parents forcing thier children to come to confirmation. What kind of a message does "I had to do it so you have to do it too" send? I beleive that it sends a message that this really isn't important, but it's just something that you have to do, so jump through the hoops so we can mark this off the church-TO DO LIST. When confirmation day comes and goes, so does the worship attendance of many. What many parents don't know is that I can tell within the first two weeks of confirmation who is taking it seriously and who is not.
Another factor is that when their children grow up, they are making thier own choices and decisions. Sometimes, and in some cases often, those decisions are bad ones, or choices that lead to destruction or awful consequences. At the very least it is not what we would have them choose, but we say nothing to them because they are adults. My question is, are you no longer their parent? Do you feel like, "Well I have done the best I could at raising them, but they are on their own now, and I have to trust that they will start making better decisions"?
What about at home? It seems like much is left undone by parents who feel that the church will handle all things pertaining to faith. How many parents are praying with their children? It begins with the parents having a prayerful relationship with God. If that isn't happening, the chances are that thier children are not growing up learning how important and vital prayer is for their lives.
How about daily devotions? I realize that time constraints have taken hold of many families, and there doesn't seem to be enough time in the day for all the things we have to do. I am right there with you on that one! But according to the 1st commandment, is it right for us to try and maybe place God in some time slot, if there is even one available? Or should we make God our number one priority each and every day?
I can tell you this, and I know I am not alone in feeling this way...On days when I put God first in my life, and do devotions to start my day off, and pray about all the things on my mind and overflowing in my schedule, I have a whole lot less stress in knowing that God is there beside me, guiding my life and decisions.
Perhaps as parents, we should take a deeper look at some of these things I have mentioned, and put them into practice. If nothing else, it will serve to show our children just how important they are for our lives and faith.
Thank you for reading and God bless. More on Parenting and Faith tomorrow!
Monday, September 19, 2011
Misunderstandings
James 3:13-14
Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom.
There was a song not too many years ago by the band Bon Jovi entitled, "Misunderstood." I think
that can best describe ministry sometimes, and life for that matter. When communication is not as good
as it should be, or when it breaks down; whether that be in a job, in the church, in a marriage, with children, friends, or others, chances are, someone or something is going to be misunderstood.
Misunderstandings can lead to all sorts of problems. When expectations by one are not met, it can lead to frustrations. When one person thinks that things have been clearly expressed to others, and it keeps coming up again and again, it can quickly turn from a frustration into a major issue that divides. Divisions conquer relationships, groups, programs and ideas.
All of this leads back to good communication. Sometimes we think that we have communicated something well, but in actuality, it has not been fully received. So there has been a breakdown in
communication.
A misunderstanding does not have to lead to a major rift in relationships. But sadly it often does, because people aren't willing to admit that they might possibly be wrong. They often aren't willing to sit down and have an actual conversation with someone else to figure out where the misunderstanding occured. And last but certainly far from least, people are not willing to forgive. I guess we feel more comfortable with being proud and "right," then mending broken communication and relationships.
When there is a misunderstanding, see it for what it is. Do not overanalyze it. (I am very guilty of this most of the time). Approach the person or persons that you have the misunderstanding with, or who have misunderstood you with love, compassion, and forgiveness. And have an actual conversation with them about the matter. LISTEN to each other. That's the part that usually isn't taking place.
Thank you for reading and God bless!
Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom.
There was a song not too many years ago by the band Bon Jovi entitled, "Misunderstood." I think
that can best describe ministry sometimes, and life for that matter. When communication is not as good
as it should be, or when it breaks down; whether that be in a job, in the church, in a marriage, with children, friends, or others, chances are, someone or something is going to be misunderstood.
Misunderstandings can lead to all sorts of problems. When expectations by one are not met, it can lead to frustrations. When one person thinks that things have been clearly expressed to others, and it keeps coming up again and again, it can quickly turn from a frustration into a major issue that divides. Divisions conquer relationships, groups, programs and ideas.
All of this leads back to good communication. Sometimes we think that we have communicated something well, but in actuality, it has not been fully received. So there has been a breakdown in
communication.
A misunderstanding does not have to lead to a major rift in relationships. But sadly it often does, because people aren't willing to admit that they might possibly be wrong. They often aren't willing to sit down and have an actual conversation with someone else to figure out where the misunderstanding occured. And last but certainly far from least, people are not willing to forgive. I guess we feel more comfortable with being proud and "right," then mending broken communication and relationships.
When there is a misunderstanding, see it for what it is. Do not overanalyze it. (I am very guilty of this most of the time). Approach the person or persons that you have the misunderstanding with, or who have misunderstood you with love, compassion, and forgiveness. And have an actual conversation with them about the matter. LISTEN to each other. That's the part that usually isn't taking place.
Thank you for reading and God bless!
Friday, September 16, 2011
Cheesy Brat Stew Recipe
As one of my brother pastors pointed out yesterday, This recipe is not the healthiest in the world, but it is good on a cold blustery fall or winter day. This Wisconsin dish will stick to your ribs and warm you up a bit. Comfort food from up North yus guyz!
CHEESY BRAT STEW
(INGREDIENTS)
8 BRATWORST LINKS cut into 1/2 in. pieces
4 MEDIUM SIZED POTATOES, cubed
16 oz BAG OF FROZEN GREEN BEENS
1 small, chopped ONION
1 cup grated CHEDDAR CHEESE
1 can CREAM OF MUSHROOM SOUP
1 cup WATER
(DIRECTIONS)
Place bratworst in large pot with the
rest of the ingredients. Cover and cook
over low heat for 30 minutes or until
potatoes are done. Serves 4-6.
(Crock Pot Directions)
Place all ingredients in crock pot
and cook on low for about 4 hours.
Give it a try on a cold blustery day this fall/winter. Let me know what you think!
Thanks for reading and God bless your day and your weekend!
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Circuit Conferences/"WINKEL"
Yesterday, as I posted on Facebook, was our Black Hills Circuit of the South Dakota District of the Lutheran Church Mo-Synod first Winkel conference (or circuit conference) of the year--returning to it after not having any during the summer.
I am so thankful to be part of such a great circuit, and the truth be known, I was also part of a great circuit when I served at my first congregation in Iowa-East District. I miss those guys! But I am privileged to be part of such a great group of guys here in the Black Hills area, wonderful men of God, undershepherds who serve the Lord and others with humilty, love and care for each other and for the Lord's flock.
Our meeting yesterday got me to thinking about circuits and circuit conferences in general. I have, in 10 years of ministry been part of 2 outstanding circuits. But I have heard horror stories from other guys in the ministry, who have not been part of such close-knit circuits, where all the brothers get along so well and build one another up. It makes me sad to know that such groups exist even in the church, among brother pastors. However, it also shows the reality of sin within the church. We in the church are not exempt from sin. We pastors are also sinners in need of God's forgiveness. Ministry is very challenging work, and we don't all agree on how things should be done.
I can't imagine what I would do if I was in a circuit where we did not agree on matters of ministry and even doctrine in some cases, and where the brother pastors did not exactly get along. I suppose I wouldn't want to attend Winkels if that were the case. And what a disappointment that would be.
What I have found in the circuits that I have enjoyed the pleasure of being part of is this...It is a true joy to get together with these brothers in Christ; to share ideas, to build one another up in Christ, to comfort each other when needed, to count on your fellow pastors in this time and place, and to grow together in Christ as we study the Word of God together, worship together, and fellowship with one another. Praise be to God for these opportunities He lovingly gives us to get together.
God bless the circuits of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, and God bless the Benton Circuit in Iowa East District, and especially may He continue to bless the Black Hills Circuit of South Dakota!
Thank you for reading and God bless you too!
I am so thankful to be part of such a great circuit, and the truth be known, I was also part of a great circuit when I served at my first congregation in Iowa-East District. I miss those guys! But I am privileged to be part of such a great group of guys here in the Black Hills area, wonderful men of God, undershepherds who serve the Lord and others with humilty, love and care for each other and for the Lord's flock.
Our meeting yesterday got me to thinking about circuits and circuit conferences in general. I have, in 10 years of ministry been part of 2 outstanding circuits. But I have heard horror stories from other guys in the ministry, who have not been part of such close-knit circuits, where all the brothers get along so well and build one another up. It makes me sad to know that such groups exist even in the church, among brother pastors. However, it also shows the reality of sin within the church. We in the church are not exempt from sin. We pastors are also sinners in need of God's forgiveness. Ministry is very challenging work, and we don't all agree on how things should be done.
I can't imagine what I would do if I was in a circuit where we did not agree on matters of ministry and even doctrine in some cases, and where the brother pastors did not exactly get along. I suppose I wouldn't want to attend Winkels if that were the case. And what a disappointment that would be.
What I have found in the circuits that I have enjoyed the pleasure of being part of is this...It is a true joy to get together with these brothers in Christ; to share ideas, to build one another up in Christ, to comfort each other when needed, to count on your fellow pastors in this time and place, and to grow together in Christ as we study the Word of God together, worship together, and fellowship with one another. Praise be to God for these opportunities He lovingly gives us to get together.
God bless the circuits of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, and God bless the Benton Circuit in Iowa East District, and especially may He continue to bless the Black Hills Circuit of South Dakota!
Thank you for reading and God bless you too!
Monday, September 12, 2011
Roller Coaster of Emotions
Ok I am going to try and not sound too cryptic in this posting, but I also do not want to be too specific. Have you ever had one of those days that just yo-yo's you back and forth and plays with all your emotions? Or perhaps it is more like a roller coaster ride of huge Ups and Downs,Twists and Turns. Yesterday was such an emotional roller-coaster ride for me.
Naturally on the 10th anniversary of 9/11 I think we were maybe all expecting that a little bit--I know I was. But the day went from somber to good, to bad, to mediocre, to relaxing and funny, to bad again, then to worse, and finally to absolute speechlessness and confusion.
Yesterday, like for many congregations, was our Sunday School Rally Day (the first day of Sunday School after summer break). It was also the day we went back to two worship services instead of just one for the summer. There is always a huge buzz around our church on this day each year, with lots of excitement about things starting up again. I like that buzzing. But right before our first worship service I was greeted with terrible news. One of our parishioners, who has been in Missouri battling Cancer, I was told was not coming back (his cancer was incurable and he was in end stages). This was kind of a shock to me, because he had been doing better seemingly after his surgery. So I had to make that announcement, and then talking about 9/11 with folks here was a difficult adjustment alongside the joy of worshiping the Lord and enjoying the fellowship of the body of Christ.
We had a pot-luck luncheon for rally day, which was very poorly attended. I am, however, thankful for those who were present and enjoyed fellowship time with them. Perhaps we shouldn't schedule pot luck luncheons on the day when the NFL kicks off their Sunday games.
The rest of the afternoon I was very happy, spending time relaxing with my family and enjoying some laughter. It really is the best medicine! Then I decided to call my mom, who I had not talked to in a while. She wasn't home, but did call me back later. It was nice talking to her, at least initially, until she told me all that was going on. Here is where I won't go into details, only to say that the roller-coaster ride that was my day started up once again. It went from bad, to worse, to downright awful. I spent the rest of the night and some time this morning not knowing what to think about it all.
And then, as I was going over the Scripture readings for next Sunday, the Old Testament reading reminded me:
Isaiah 55:6,8-9
[6] "Seek the Lord while he may be found;
call upon him while he is near;
[8] For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.
[9] For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts.
I encourage you to "seek the Lord" when you are having an emotional roller-coaster of a day, or any time at all!
Thank you for reading and God bless! Hopefully your day today is less stressful!
Naturally on the 10th anniversary of 9/11 I think we were maybe all expecting that a little bit--I know I was. But the day went from somber to good, to bad, to mediocre, to relaxing and funny, to bad again, then to worse, and finally to absolute speechlessness and confusion.
Yesterday, like for many congregations, was our Sunday School Rally Day (the first day of Sunday School after summer break). It was also the day we went back to two worship services instead of just one for the summer. There is always a huge buzz around our church on this day each year, with lots of excitement about things starting up again. I like that buzzing. But right before our first worship service I was greeted with terrible news. One of our parishioners, who has been in Missouri battling Cancer, I was told was not coming back (his cancer was incurable and he was in end stages). This was kind of a shock to me, because he had been doing better seemingly after his surgery. So I had to make that announcement, and then talking about 9/11 with folks here was a difficult adjustment alongside the joy of worshiping the Lord and enjoying the fellowship of the body of Christ.
We had a pot-luck luncheon for rally day, which was very poorly attended. I am, however, thankful for those who were present and enjoyed fellowship time with them. Perhaps we shouldn't schedule pot luck luncheons on the day when the NFL kicks off their Sunday games.
The rest of the afternoon I was very happy, spending time relaxing with my family and enjoying some laughter. It really is the best medicine! Then I decided to call my mom, who I had not talked to in a while. She wasn't home, but did call me back later. It was nice talking to her, at least initially, until she told me all that was going on. Here is where I won't go into details, only to say that the roller-coaster ride that was my day started up once again. It went from bad, to worse, to downright awful. I spent the rest of the night and some time this morning not knowing what to think about it all.
And then, as I was going over the Scripture readings for next Sunday, the Old Testament reading reminded me:
Isaiah 55:6,8-9
[6] "Seek the Lord while he may be found;
call upon him while he is near;
[8] For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.
[9] For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts.
I encourage you to "seek the Lord" when you are having an emotional roller-coaster of a day, or any time at all!
Thank you for reading and God bless! Hopefully your day today is less stressful!
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Art Work
It was great to see all the wonderful art displayed at the hospital yesterday. I think they do this a couple of times a year as a fundraiser. After making my hospital visits yesterday I took just a little time to go up and down both sides of the lobby area looking at all the paintings and other items. I think my favorites were the ones of labrador retrievers....I might be a little biased though, because I have 2 labs at home(ok one is a lab/collie mix). But there were some awesome prints of scenic views that were very well done also. I didn't quite have the bucks, or I might have had to take a few prints home with me. Oh well, it was quite nice just to take a little time and enjoy life and God's creation through the eyes of some wonderfully talented artists.
Here are a few of the artists names I wrote down, and the prints they had on display that I liked. You can Google them to see some of their paintings/photo prints. Or better yet, if you are in the Rapid City area, go over to the hospital's main lobby and check them out! They will be there today and tomorrow still.
Nigel Hemming-"Six Pack"
Jerry Gradamus-"Black Lab Pups", "Friends in the Field"
Mike Jones-"Tahoe Smoky Sunrise"
Ann Dahlgren-"A New Day 1"
William Vanscoy-"All Day Dreamer"
*Ken Messam-"Oxbow Bend"
*[I could not find this painter on the web]
Enjoy some good artwork and photography.
Thanks for reading and God bless you!
Here are a few of the artists names I wrote down, and the prints they had on display that I liked. You can Google them to see some of their paintings/photo prints. Or better yet, if you are in the Rapid City area, go over to the hospital's main lobby and check them out! They will be there today and tomorrow still.
Nigel Hemming-"Six Pack"
Jerry Gradamus-"Black Lab Pups", "Friends in the Field"
Mike Jones-"Tahoe Smoky Sunrise"
Ann Dahlgren-"A New Day 1"
William Vanscoy-"All Day Dreamer"
*Ken Messam-"Oxbow Bend"
*[I could not find this painter on the web]
Enjoy some good artwork and photography.
Thanks for reading and God bless you!
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Whose are you?
If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord. So then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord's. Romans 14:8
The 1978 release of the Pete Townshend song "Who are you?" on the album of the same name, by the rock band The Who, became one of the group's biggest hits in the States. I like the song, except for a couple instances where a certain word is expressed. But the title of the song, and the main question in the chorus is probably the question that most of us would ask about each other, but perhaps also the question we would most ask about ourselves--perhaps as we look at ourselves in the mirror. "Who are you?"
Today, I would like to supplant that question with a different one, based on the verse above from our upcoming Epistle lesson next Sunday from Romans 14:8. "Whose are you?" I wonder if that wouldn't be a better question for us to ask others, and most definitely a better question to ask ourselves. Because "whose" you are, or who you belong to, will determine in large part, WHO you are as well.
For example: If, you belong to the Lord, then you will be about doing what the Lord has given to you to do in this life, and also in death. Mainly, believing in your heart that Jesus Christ is your Savior, confessing Him with your mouth, and living your life in such a way as to reflect the light of Christ to the darkness of this world and of other people's lives. If you belong to the Lord, then you will be repentant of your sins, turning away from your sin, and turning back to God.
We were bought at a price, we are not our own. The truth of the matter is, Jesus purchased and won us with His precious blood, sacrificed for us on the cross. We belong to the Lord. It is who we are, and more importantly, it is WHOSE we are!
Thanks for reading and God bless!
The 1978 release of the Pete Townshend song "Who are you?" on the album of the same name, by the rock band The Who, became one of the group's biggest hits in the States. I like the song, except for a couple instances where a certain word is expressed. But the title of the song, and the main question in the chorus is probably the question that most of us would ask about each other, but perhaps also the question we would most ask about ourselves--perhaps as we look at ourselves in the mirror. "Who are you?"
Today, I would like to supplant that question with a different one, based on the verse above from our upcoming Epistle lesson next Sunday from Romans 14:8. "Whose are you?" I wonder if that wouldn't be a better question for us to ask others, and most definitely a better question to ask ourselves. Because "whose" you are, or who you belong to, will determine in large part, WHO you are as well.
For example: If, you belong to the Lord, then you will be about doing what the Lord has given to you to do in this life, and also in death. Mainly, believing in your heart that Jesus Christ is your Savior, confessing Him with your mouth, and living your life in such a way as to reflect the light of Christ to the darkness of this world and of other people's lives. If you belong to the Lord, then you will be repentant of your sins, turning away from your sin, and turning back to God.
We were bought at a price, we are not our own. The truth of the matter is, Jesus purchased and won us with His precious blood, sacrificed for us on the cross. We belong to the Lord. It is who we are, and more importantly, it is WHOSE we are!
Thanks for reading and God bless!
Monday, August 29, 2011
Reflections on the Past: Middle School/Jr. High
Today is the first day of Middle School for my son (and hundreds of other pre-pubescent children all over Rapid City). From the looks of things at orientation the other night there is a whole lot of excitement and a whole lot of nervousness. Ahh those were the days, but I can tell you one thing, I am soooo glad I don't have to go through that again.
I can remember my first day at Hollenbeck Jr. High School in St. Charles, Mo. Long time ago, but recently I found my yearbook and looked through it, recalling friends and experiences I had in 8th and 9th grade there, then telling my children about it all.
I remember being so scared about who I might wind up with as a locker partner that I rode my bike over to a friend and soccer teammate's house to ask him if he wanted to be locker partners. It worked out well for the year--Thanks Brian O'Dell for being a great locker partner.
I remember being totally confused and overwhelmed with how big the school was compared to the little Lutheran School I went to prior to Jr. High. Especially overwhelming was the going from class to class in such a large building, the chaos of the hallways, lunchtime, gym, and getting to the busses at the end of the day, and finding the right bus to take you home. So many new faces for a shy kid like I was.
It was scary, interesting, anxitey-producing, adventurous, chaotic, fun, challenging, and new all at the same time. But I know that even though there were many difficulties and it wasn't always a pleasant experience, I grew and learned and became a much stronger person from all the experiences, both good and bad.
Here is to a wonderful year of growth and experience for you Jacob! It won't be as hard as the first day always is!
Thanks for reading and God bless!
I can remember my first day at Hollenbeck Jr. High School in St. Charles, Mo. Long time ago, but recently I found my yearbook and looked through it, recalling friends and experiences I had in 8th and 9th grade there, then telling my children about it all.
I remember being so scared about who I might wind up with as a locker partner that I rode my bike over to a friend and soccer teammate's house to ask him if he wanted to be locker partners. It worked out well for the year--Thanks Brian O'Dell for being a great locker partner.
I remember being totally confused and overwhelmed with how big the school was compared to the little Lutheran School I went to prior to Jr. High. Especially overwhelming was the going from class to class in such a large building, the chaos of the hallways, lunchtime, gym, and getting to the busses at the end of the day, and finding the right bus to take you home. So many new faces for a shy kid like I was.
It was scary, interesting, anxitey-producing, adventurous, chaotic, fun, challenging, and new all at the same time. But I know that even though there were many difficulties and it wasn't always a pleasant experience, I grew and learned and became a much stronger person from all the experiences, both good and bad.
Here is to a wonderful year of growth and experience for you Jacob! It won't be as hard as the first day always is!
Thanks for reading and God bless!
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Dissing God's Word
Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. Matthew 24:35
I was saddened (but not surprised) to see something posted on facebook this morning from an aquaintance of mine that was extremely disrespectful to the Word of God. At first I was angry, but I knew that danger of that anger turning to me being judgmental toward that person. Instead, I forgave them and feel sorry for them at the same time. I was reminded of Jesus' compassion for the crowd, when He thought, They are like sheep without a shepherd.
It does disturb me, however, when those who probably do not even own a Bible take passages out of context, and mock it, and misuse God's Word to try to make their worldly point, or to try and turn God's Words around in an attempt to justify sin or sinful behavior. This is what Satan did in deceiving Adam and Eve to sin. Did God REALLY say?
I would rather that people actually pick up the Bible and start reading it, FOR REAL, than to have them mock what they have absolutely no understanding of. Better yet, read it and then come and ask a pastor, such as myself, what it means.
Lest you read this and think I am still angry (it is hard to tell emotion in emails and blogs), I am not, but completely serious about all I am writing here. As I already wrote, it really distubs me when I hear or see people being so disrespectful of something that God has given to us to bless our lives.
So pick up a Bible and start reading. Don't have a Bible? My policy has always been that if someone doesn't have a Bible, come see me, I will give you one. I'll even teach you what it means!!!
The B-I-B-L-E, yes that's the book for me; I stand alone on the Word of God, the B-I-B-L-E!
Thanks for reading and God bless!
I was saddened (but not surprised) to see something posted on facebook this morning from an aquaintance of mine that was extremely disrespectful to the Word of God. At first I was angry, but I knew that danger of that anger turning to me being judgmental toward that person. Instead, I forgave them and feel sorry for them at the same time. I was reminded of Jesus' compassion for the crowd, when He thought, They are like sheep without a shepherd.
It does disturb me, however, when those who probably do not even own a Bible take passages out of context, and mock it, and misuse God's Word to try to make their worldly point, or to try and turn God's Words around in an attempt to justify sin or sinful behavior. This is what Satan did in deceiving Adam and Eve to sin. Did God REALLY say?
I would rather that people actually pick up the Bible and start reading it, FOR REAL, than to have them mock what they have absolutely no understanding of. Better yet, read it and then come and ask a pastor, such as myself, what it means.
Lest you read this and think I am still angry (it is hard to tell emotion in emails and blogs), I am not, but completely serious about all I am writing here. As I already wrote, it really distubs me when I hear or see people being so disrespectful of something that God has given to us to bless our lives.
So pick up a Bible and start reading. Don't have a Bible? My policy has always been that if someone doesn't have a Bible, come see me, I will give you one. I'll even teach you what it means!!!
The B-I-B-L-E, yes that's the book for me; I stand alone on the Word of God, the B-I-B-L-E!
Thanks for reading and God bless!
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
More on choices: God is the do-er!
John 15:16
You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you.
Some may be a bit confused by this verse, as there are many who think that it is WE who choose God, and not the other way around. In Luther's Small Catechism, he brings a little bit of clarity to this in the explanation of the 3rd Article fo the Apostles' Creed...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...
By nature I am spiritually blind, dead, and an enemy of God, as the Scriptures teach; therefore, "I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him."
It is as I often say in Bible Studies, "God is the do-er!" It is He who brings us to faith in Christ through His most powerful Word. Not only that, but it is also He who, by His grace, sustains that faith through regular feeding with Word and Sacrament.
The opportunity is there, and then the choice becomes ours what to do with those things that God provides for our faith. Do we live the new life in Christ, or remain dead in our sins? Do we exercise our faith by coming to worship, getting fed with His spiritual food, or do we develop a habit of skipping church and convince ourselves that we do not need it anymore? Do we talk to God in prayer daily (pray without ceasing), or do we ignore Him and avoid Him? You see, we do have choices every single day when it comes to our faith; but when it comes to how we initially even have a relationship with God, it is all the work of God through Jesus Christ His only Son, who reconciled us to God through His death and resurrection.
I hope that you recognize the work that God has done/is doing in your life, and also the choices that you have in responding to Him in faith!
Thank you for reading and God bless you!
You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you.
Some may be a bit confused by this verse, as there are many who think that it is WE who choose God, and not the other way around. In Luther's Small Catechism, he brings a little bit of clarity to this in the explanation of the 3rd Article fo the Apostles' Creed...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...
By nature I am spiritually blind, dead, and an enemy of God, as the Scriptures teach; therefore, "I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him."
It is as I often say in Bible Studies, "God is the do-er!" It is He who brings us to faith in Christ through His most powerful Word. Not only that, but it is also He who, by His grace, sustains that faith through regular feeding with Word and Sacrament.
The opportunity is there, and then the choice becomes ours what to do with those things that God provides for our faith. Do we live the new life in Christ, or remain dead in our sins? Do we exercise our faith by coming to worship, getting fed with His spiritual food, or do we develop a habit of skipping church and convince ourselves that we do not need it anymore? Do we talk to God in prayer daily (pray without ceasing), or do we ignore Him and avoid Him? You see, we do have choices every single day when it comes to our faith; but when it comes to how we initially even have a relationship with God, it is all the work of God through Jesus Christ His only Son, who reconciled us to God through His death and resurrection.
I hope that you recognize the work that God has done/is doing in your life, and also the choices that you have in responding to Him in faith!
Thank you for reading and God bless you!
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Making Choices
"Now therefore fear the Lord and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness. Put away the gods that your fathers served beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord. [15] And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Joshua 24:14-15
Life is full of choices. Every day we have to choose, from very simple choices to be made--like what to wear (ok so that may not be so simple for some)--to what school are we going to send our child to. When it comes to parenting, I find that this is an area that many kids, and especially adolescents, and young adults are struggling with. How to make good choices. I don't know for sure, but I think that this is one of those things that may begin with parenting. I guess as a parent I am of the opinion that we as parents should be helping our kids to learn how to make proper and good choices, by giving them choices regularly, and allowing them to see how the choices they make effect their lives and other people's lives.
In the text above, Joshua is giving some choices to the Israelites about who they will serve, and telling them to choose on this day whom it will be, YHWH (the Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob), or the Egyptian gods, or the gods of the Amorites (the land where they were at that present time). Interestingly enough, Joshua makes it well-known that he and his household would be serving the Lord-the one true God.
When it comes to this kind of a choice, there really isn't a choice other than serving the one true God, maker of heaven and earth. But I see people making "choices" regarding "religion" sort of like this: Well, I like this aspect of Buddhism, and I like this part of Islam, and oh the Hindu religion has some interesting things, Confucious has lots of cool things to say, as does Taoism, Judaism has some cool rituals and holidays and things, but I grew up Christian so I can't really give that up-but I don't like organized religion--so...I will take this and that from each and fashion my own. It's my life and these are the "choices" that I am going to make.
I kind of dis-affectionately call this "Smorgasbord Religion," because the desire is there to "be religious" but the person is all confused about who and whose they are, and how that should manifest itself in worshiping God. I hear a whole lot about "We are all the same," and "Organized religion should just leave individuals alone to do what they want, it's not like there is just one way."
Jesus said, "I am THE WAY, THE TRUTH, THE LIFE! NO ONE comes to the Father, except through ME!"
So I think the one True God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) would have something to say about our "Choices" when it comes to who we worship.
Thank you for reading, and God bless! Tomorrow I will have more on making choices.
Life is full of choices. Every day we have to choose, from very simple choices to be made--like what to wear (ok so that may not be so simple for some)--to what school are we going to send our child to. When it comes to parenting, I find that this is an area that many kids, and especially adolescents, and young adults are struggling with. How to make good choices. I don't know for sure, but I think that this is one of those things that may begin with parenting. I guess as a parent I am of the opinion that we as parents should be helping our kids to learn how to make proper and good choices, by giving them choices regularly, and allowing them to see how the choices they make effect their lives and other people's lives.
In the text above, Joshua is giving some choices to the Israelites about who they will serve, and telling them to choose on this day whom it will be, YHWH (the Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob), or the Egyptian gods, or the gods of the Amorites (the land where they were at that present time). Interestingly enough, Joshua makes it well-known that he and his household would be serving the Lord-the one true God.
When it comes to this kind of a choice, there really isn't a choice other than serving the one true God, maker of heaven and earth. But I see people making "choices" regarding "religion" sort of like this: Well, I like this aspect of Buddhism, and I like this part of Islam, and oh the Hindu religion has some interesting things, Confucious has lots of cool things to say, as does Taoism, Judaism has some cool rituals and holidays and things, but I grew up Christian so I can't really give that up-but I don't like organized religion--so...I will take this and that from each and fashion my own. It's my life and these are the "choices" that I am going to make.
I kind of dis-affectionately call this "Smorgasbord Religion," because the desire is there to "be religious" but the person is all confused about who and whose they are, and how that should manifest itself in worshiping God. I hear a whole lot about "We are all the same," and "Organized religion should just leave individuals alone to do what they want, it's not like there is just one way."
Jesus said, "I am THE WAY, THE TRUTH, THE LIFE! NO ONE comes to the Father, except through ME!"
So I think the one True God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) would have something to say about our "Choices" when it comes to who we worship.
Thank you for reading, and God bless! Tomorrow I will have more on making choices.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Feeling Overwhelmed
I am hearing and seeing a lot of comments lately about being overwhelmed. I suppose it is because the summer is(or for some, already has) coming to a close, and schools, sports, and other activities have begun once again.
I got a taste of this myself this morning, as I began writing a newsletter article for our September Church letter. In it, I listed all the things I could think of that will be starting again in September. That list was quite long. And as if it wasn't enough, it was not even including the non-church/work-related things that are all starting up again in our family. I know that I am preachin to the choir on this, because all of you have busy lives, some even more saturated with places to go and things to do on a daily basis than my own.
So what is the remedy to all of this hustle and bustle and stress-inducing, schedule-filled, rat-race, fast-paced living that we are doing? Perhaps the easy answer would be to downsize, or get rid of some things that may not be as necessary. But that may not be the best answer. And it may not get rid of your saturated and stressful schedules either....seems to me that many of the people I know had very busy summers this year too! I know mine has been out-of-the-ordinary crazy!
When you are feeling overwhelmed, (and we all do from time to time), the best thing to do is to slow down for a bit, take a few minutes, and give it all to God. Pray about it, talk to God about it, ask HIM for the help that you need. I think you might be surprised at where the help might manifest itself in your life. I find prayer to be the ultimate relaxation technique. And it helps to begin such prayer with the things you are thankful for. It changes your thought process. A GREAT stress reliever too!
Thank you for reading, slow down a bit and chat with your maker each day!!!
I got a taste of this myself this morning, as I began writing a newsletter article for our September Church letter. In it, I listed all the things I could think of that will be starting again in September. That list was quite long. And as if it wasn't enough, it was not even including the non-church/work-related things that are all starting up again in our family. I know that I am preachin to the choir on this, because all of you have busy lives, some even more saturated with places to go and things to do on a daily basis than my own.
So what is the remedy to all of this hustle and bustle and stress-inducing, schedule-filled, rat-race, fast-paced living that we are doing? Perhaps the easy answer would be to downsize, or get rid of some things that may not be as necessary. But that may not be the best answer. And it may not get rid of your saturated and stressful schedules either....seems to me that many of the people I know had very busy summers this year too! I know mine has been out-of-the-ordinary crazy!
When you are feeling overwhelmed, (and we all do from time to time), the best thing to do is to slow down for a bit, take a few minutes, and give it all to God. Pray about it, talk to God about it, ask HIM for the help that you need. I think you might be surprised at where the help might manifest itself in your life. I find prayer to be the ultimate relaxation technique. And it helps to begin such prayer with the things you are thankful for. It changes your thought process. A GREAT stress reliever too!
Thank you for reading, slow down a bit and chat with your maker each day!!!
Friday, August 19, 2011
Using the gifts God has given!
Romans 12:5-6
...so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. [6] Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them.
This happens to be from the Epistle lesson for this Sunday, and also the text for the message I will be preaching. But as I think about a special person today, who died yesterday, I can't help but ponder this text again.
Clara Wolff, a beloved woman and member of Peace Lutheran Church, serving in so many ways with the gifts God has given to her, and sharing His love and mercy with so many. Clara understood what it meant to be part of the body of Christ and to use God's grace-given gifts to the fullest and best of her abilities. She was always working--as a greeter, pulling weeds around the church and tending to the flowers here, working the greeting card table, changing the bulletin board for different seasons in the Church, or just trying to be helpful and encouraging. She would bring apple chips that she made for Amy and Jacob every fall. She is going to be greatly missed!
But one thing that we can all learn from Clara-who at 84 yrs old looked very frail and to some probably like she couldn't do a whole lot-is that God can give us the ability and the strength to do anything, according to His good and gracious will. And by His grace, He supplies us with the gifts that we need, and also with the Holy Spirit in order that we may have the ability and desire to bless others with those gifts of grace.
I pray that I am half as giving and willing to serve as Clara was, and I pray the same for everyone.
I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Philip. 4:13
Thanks for reading, and God bless you with His gifts of grace in all that you do!
...so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. [6] Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them.
This happens to be from the Epistle lesson for this Sunday, and also the text for the message I will be preaching. But as I think about a special person today, who died yesterday, I can't help but ponder this text again.
Clara Wolff, a beloved woman and member of Peace Lutheran Church, serving in so many ways with the gifts God has given to her, and sharing His love and mercy with so many. Clara understood what it meant to be part of the body of Christ and to use God's grace-given gifts to the fullest and best of her abilities. She was always working--as a greeter, pulling weeds around the church and tending to the flowers here, working the greeting card table, changing the bulletin board for different seasons in the Church, or just trying to be helpful and encouraging. She would bring apple chips that she made for Amy and Jacob every fall. She is going to be greatly missed!
But one thing that we can all learn from Clara-who at 84 yrs old looked very frail and to some probably like she couldn't do a whole lot-is that God can give us the ability and the strength to do anything, according to His good and gracious will. And by His grace, He supplies us with the gifts that we need, and also with the Holy Spirit in order that we may have the ability and desire to bless others with those gifts of grace.
I pray that I am half as giving and willing to serve as Clara was, and I pray the same for everyone.
I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Philip. 4:13
Thanks for reading, and God bless you with His gifts of grace in all that you do!
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Man's struggle
One of my favorite paintings at the St Louis Art Musem (slam.com) is by John Martin, a British painter of the early 19th C. The painting is titled: Sadak in Search of Oblivion. (1812).
The painting depicts a Persian nobleman clinging to a rock at the bottom of the painting and trying to climb upward on the cliffs. The rest of the painting, moving upward, is dedicated to the rocky precipices that Sadak must surmount. Most of the painting is quite dark, however, rays of light shine forth from the upper left of the painting, suggesting that Sadak will reach his goal on this perilous journey of finding the Waters of Oblivion.
Without knowing the background story from Tales of the Genii, the subject of this painting, the first time I saw the painting I was intrigued by it, and spent quite a bit of time that day in front of it, coming back to it again and again. I wasn't sure what drew me to it, but the conclusion I came to after leaving the museum was that to me, it depicts the struggle of man. Now that can have all kinds of meaning to it, but it got me to thinking about how we do struggle in this life. The greatest of our struggles is with our sinfulness. Now we cannot win this struggle, in fact we lose at it every single day. But, like in the painting, there is light shining down into our lives.
For us, it is the light of Christ that shines on us and the light of His Word that leads us to repentance and forgivness for our sins. There is hope then for us that we too will reach our destination on our journey of faith, not the Waters of Oblivion, but the Water of life in heaven where an eternity with Christ Jesus awaits all who believe in Him as our Savior from sin.
Rev. 21:6 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give from the spring of the water of life without payment... Rev. 22:1-2 Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb [2] through the middle of the street of the city; also, on either side of the river, the tree of life with its twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit each month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.
A little different today, but I hope you still enjoyed!
Thanks for reading and God bless you!
The painting depicts a Persian nobleman clinging to a rock at the bottom of the painting and trying to climb upward on the cliffs. The rest of the painting, moving upward, is dedicated to the rocky precipices that Sadak must surmount. Most of the painting is quite dark, however, rays of light shine forth from the upper left of the painting, suggesting that Sadak will reach his goal on this perilous journey of finding the Waters of Oblivion.
Without knowing the background story from Tales of the Genii, the subject of this painting, the first time I saw the painting I was intrigued by it, and spent quite a bit of time that day in front of it, coming back to it again and again. I wasn't sure what drew me to it, but the conclusion I came to after leaving the museum was that to me, it depicts the struggle of man. Now that can have all kinds of meaning to it, but it got me to thinking about how we do struggle in this life. The greatest of our struggles is with our sinfulness. Now we cannot win this struggle, in fact we lose at it every single day. But, like in the painting, there is light shining down into our lives.
For us, it is the light of Christ that shines on us and the light of His Word that leads us to repentance and forgivness for our sins. There is hope then for us that we too will reach our destination on our journey of faith, not the Waters of Oblivion, but the Water of life in heaven where an eternity with Christ Jesus awaits all who believe in Him as our Savior from sin.
Rev. 21:6 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give from the spring of the water of life without payment... Rev. 22:1-2 Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb [2] through the middle of the street of the city; also, on either side of the river, the tree of life with its twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit each month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.
A little different today, but I hope you still enjoyed!
Thanks for reading and God bless you!
Monday, August 15, 2011
Temples of the Holy Spirit
Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God. 2 Cor. 7:1
Recently I have had occasion to think about this text. I won't go into details, but will just say that a loved one is struggling with substance abuse. If you are reading this I want you to think about the statement above, and I will try to go into futher details of this verse's implications for our lives.
Please read the above verse from 2 Corinthians again.
The promises that St. Paul is referring to that we have are: "bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God."
To that end, it is important for us to keep in mind that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, [20] for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.
Thanks for reading and God's blessings and peace to you all!
Recently I have had occasion to think about this text. I won't go into details, but will just say that a loved one is struggling with substance abuse. If you are reading this I want you to think about the statement above, and I will try to go into futher details of this verse's implications for our lives.
Please read the above verse from 2 Corinthians again.
The promises that St. Paul is referring to that we have are: "bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God."
"I will make My dwelling among them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people...I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to Me..."
There are so many things out there, temptations to defile our bodies and spirits. Drugs, alcohol, sex, pornography, and many many others. For some, it is not just a temptation, they FILL themselves with these things regularly. Except that they can never be filled with these things. Their lives become about the next high, or that next rush, never finding anything lasting or of substance. God offers us lives of substance in His Son Jesus Christ. In Him, we can be FILLED with the Holy Spirit, To that end, it is important for us to keep in mind that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, [20] for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.
Thanks for reading and God's blessings and peace to you all!
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Lord Have Mercy: Part 3 in a series on MERCY
Above the doors at the church I serve as pastor there is a sign on the inside which reads, "You are now entering the mission field." How true this is, especially regarding mercy, as in mercy shown to others, out in the world.
When we come to worship God, too many fail to understand why we are really there. Too many think that worship is what we are bringing to God, what we are doing FOR God, as if He needs something from us.
In our hymnals in the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, Lutheran Service Book, the introduction in the front reminds us of the following....Our Lord is the Lord who serves. Jesus came into the flesh not to be served, but to serve and give His life as a ransom for many...Our Lord serves us today through His holy Word and Sacraments. Through these means, He comes among us to deliver His forgiveness and salvation, freeing us from our sins and strengthening us for service to one another and the world...The Lord's service calls forth our service--in sacrifices of praise and thanksgiving to Him and in loving service to one another.
Mercy then, has a very real and meaningful place in our lives, as we, having been stregthened through God's Word and Sacrament, go out into the world to show Christ's mercy and love to others. It is a meaningful and ESSENTIAL part of the Christian life, necessarily flowing from the faith we have been given.
A question for you all--If there is no mercy in us, is there Christ in us either?
Thank you for reading, and God bless you as you show mercy to the hurting world.
When we come to worship God, too many fail to understand why we are really there. Too many think that worship is what we are bringing to God, what we are doing FOR God, as if He needs something from us.
In our hymnals in the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, Lutheran Service Book, the introduction in the front reminds us of the following....Our Lord is the Lord who serves. Jesus came into the flesh not to be served, but to serve and give His life as a ransom for many...Our Lord serves us today through His holy Word and Sacraments. Through these means, He comes among us to deliver His forgiveness and salvation, freeing us from our sins and strengthening us for service to one another and the world...The Lord's service calls forth our service--in sacrifices of praise and thanksgiving to Him and in loving service to one another.
Mercy then, has a very real and meaningful place in our lives, as we, having been stregthened through God's Word and Sacrament, go out into the world to show Christ's mercy and love to others. It is a meaningful and ESSENTIAL part of the Christian life, necessarily flowing from the faith we have been given.
A question for you all--If there is no mercy in us, is there Christ in us either?
Thank you for reading, and God bless you as you show mercy to the hurting world.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Lord Have Mercy: Part 2 in a series on MERCY
Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. [5] Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, Philip. 2:4-5
Rev. Matthew Harrison, president of the LCMS, in his book entitled, Christ Have Mercy: How to put your faith in action, quotes the following from Luther regarding our own use of mercy toward others....
Our Lord and Savior Jesus has left us a commandment which applies equally to all Christians, namely, that we are to render...the works of mercy[Luke6:36] to those who are afflicted and in a state of calamity, and that we are to visit the sick, try to free captives, and do similar things for our neighborr so that the evils of the present may be somewhat lessened. Our Lord Jesus Christ Himself gave us the brightest example of this commandment when...He descended from the bosom of the Father into our misery and our prison, that is, into our flesh and our most wretched life, and took upon Himself the penalty for our sins so that we might be saved.
By keeping ourselves open always to the needs of others, we become less selfish, less self-centered people, and less vulnerable to the rampant sin of entitlement. Not only that, but we begin to have a greater compassion and love for other human beings and what they are going through.
Quite often we immediately judge others who might be behaving in a less than desirable way, or even downright rudely toward others. Instead of allowing for the possibility that they just might be going through something terribly difficult and trying to understand and help that person, we may be too quick to write them off as just being a jerk.
When the Bible tells us that JEsus had COMPASSION on people, look at what happens next in each case. He DOES something! That's because compassion means doing something....it does NOT mean just feeling sorry for someone and moving along to something else because you don't want to be bothered with it. Compassion necessarily means ACTION. Jesus demonstrates that for us.
Perhaps it is time to put YOUR faith in action!
Thanks for reading, and God bless you with compassion and mercy for others!
Rev. Matthew Harrison, president of the LCMS, in his book entitled, Christ Have Mercy: How to put your faith in action, quotes the following from Luther regarding our own use of mercy toward others....
Our Lord and Savior Jesus has left us a commandment which applies equally to all Christians, namely, that we are to render...the works of mercy[Luke6:36] to those who are afflicted and in a state of calamity, and that we are to visit the sick, try to free captives, and do similar things for our neighborr so that the evils of the present may be somewhat lessened. Our Lord Jesus Christ Himself gave us the brightest example of this commandment when...He descended from the bosom of the Father into our misery and our prison, that is, into our flesh and our most wretched life, and took upon Himself the penalty for our sins so that we might be saved.
By keeping ourselves open always to the needs of others, we become less selfish, less self-centered people, and less vulnerable to the rampant sin of entitlement. Not only that, but we begin to have a greater compassion and love for other human beings and what they are going through.
Quite often we immediately judge others who might be behaving in a less than desirable way, or even downright rudely toward others. Instead of allowing for the possibility that they just might be going through something terribly difficult and trying to understand and help that person, we may be too quick to write them off as just being a jerk.
When the Bible tells us that JEsus had COMPASSION on people, look at what happens next in each case. He DOES something! That's because compassion means doing something....it does NOT mean just feeling sorry for someone and moving along to something else because you don't want to be bothered with it. Compassion necessarily means ACTION. Jesus demonstrates that for us.
Perhaps it is time to put YOUR faith in action!
Thanks for reading, and God bless you with compassion and mercy for others!
Monday, August 8, 2011
Kyrie Eleison: Lord Have Mercy: Part one of a series on MERCY
Psalm 51:1 Have mercy on me, O God,
according to your steadfast love;
according to your abundant mercy
blot out my transgressions.
I think that we can relate to these words of David. Of course, he wrote this Psalm in repentance of the sin(s) he committed with and regarding Bethsheba. But we can relate. Did you know, those of you who have worshiped God in a Divine Service, that when you are saying, or more probably singing Kyrie Elesion, you are saying/singing, "Lord have mercy?"
But the question is, why are we asking God for mercy? Is it for sins committed? Is it because we live in a sin-corrupted world? Is it that we just need help with all the day to day challenges and difficulties we must endure? I would venture to say that it is ALL the above.
Here in Rapid City, we should be singing, if not shouting from the top of the Black Hills, the words: "KYRIE ELEISON!" Recently, we have had multiple tragedies, some of which have affected me personally, and some indirectly by affecting others I know. It seems that everywhere I turn lately there is tragedy upon tragedy. It really could be quite depressing, and cause great anxiety.
Except that we ought to know, like David knew, that even under the worst of circumstances, we can call on God for mercy. The author of Hebrews reminds us:
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. [16] Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:15-16
Thanks for reading and don't be afraid to call on God for mercy!
according to your steadfast love;
according to your abundant mercy
blot out my transgressions.
I think that we can relate to these words of David. Of course, he wrote this Psalm in repentance of the sin(s) he committed with and regarding Bethsheba. But we can relate. Did you know, those of you who have worshiped God in a Divine Service, that when you are saying, or more probably singing Kyrie Elesion, you are saying/singing, "Lord have mercy?"
But the question is, why are we asking God for mercy? Is it for sins committed? Is it because we live in a sin-corrupted world? Is it that we just need help with all the day to day challenges and difficulties we must endure? I would venture to say that it is ALL the above.
Here in Rapid City, we should be singing, if not shouting from the top of the Black Hills, the words: "KYRIE ELEISON!" Recently, we have had multiple tragedies, some of which have affected me personally, and some indirectly by affecting others I know. It seems that everywhere I turn lately there is tragedy upon tragedy. It really could be quite depressing, and cause great anxiety.
Except that we ought to know, like David knew, that even under the worst of circumstances, we can call on God for mercy. The author of Hebrews reminds us:
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. [16] Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:15-16
Thanks for reading and don't be afraid to call on God for mercy!
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Wisdom vs Knowledge Part II
For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.... Proverbs 2:6
First, it is important that wisdom comes from God. True wisdom, in which are included: knowledge and understanding, comes from the mouth of God.
This is kind of an important point. If wisdom comes from the mouth of God, then it seems to me that it would be extremely important for one to be in God's Word, that is, if one wanted to become wise.
Wisdom helps one to discen between right and wrong, between good and evil, between righteousness and unrighteousness. Take Solomon for example-- And your servant is in the midst of your people whom you have chosen, a great people, too many to be numbered or counted for multitude. [9] Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, that I may discern between good and evil, for who is able to govern this your great people?"
[10] It pleased the Lord that Solomon had asked this. [11] And God said to him, "Because you have asked this, and have not asked for yourself long life or riches or the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern what is right, [12] behold, I now do according to your word. Behold, I give you a wise and discerning mind, so that none like you has been before you and none like you shall arise after you. 1 Kings 3:8-12
It was an understanding mind and discernment that Solomon asked for. Basically, he was asking the Lord for wisdom in order to be able to rule the people. And God was pleased with this request, because fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. This is what Solomon desired. I wonder what the world would be like if we all desired and asked for true wisdom, which comes from being in the Word of God. Something to ponder.
Thank you for reading and God bless you!
First, it is important that wisdom comes from God. True wisdom, in which are included: knowledge and understanding, comes from the mouth of God.
This is kind of an important point. If wisdom comes from the mouth of God, then it seems to me that it would be extremely important for one to be in God's Word, that is, if one wanted to become wise.
Wisdom helps one to discen between right and wrong, between good and evil, between righteousness and unrighteousness. Take Solomon for example-- And your servant is in the midst of your people whom you have chosen, a great people, too many to be numbered or counted for multitude. [9] Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, that I may discern between good and evil, for who is able to govern this your great people?"
[10] It pleased the Lord that Solomon had asked this. [11] And God said to him, "Because you have asked this, and have not asked for yourself long life or riches or the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern what is right, [12] behold, I now do according to your word. Behold, I give you a wise and discerning mind, so that none like you has been before you and none like you shall arise after you. 1 Kings 3:8-12
It was an understanding mind and discernment that Solomon asked for. Basically, he was asking the Lord for wisdom in order to be able to rule the people. And God was pleased with this request, because fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. This is what Solomon desired. I wonder what the world would be like if we all desired and asked for true wisdom, which comes from being in the Word of God. Something to ponder.
Thank you for reading and God bless you!
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
For those who are grieving at the tragic shooting of 3 police officers in Rapid City Yesterday
PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, in this fallen world, distinctive dangers await those whom You have called to be police officers and firefighters. Wicked people challenge them, and evil circumstances await them; yet by Your call, they willingly serve and protect the public good and exercise Your providence among us. Grant them safety and diligence in the performance of their duties. Protect them from the various hazards and temptations particular to their vocations. Create or sustain faith in You as their Savior among them, keeping them secure unto life everlasting. AMEN.
WHERE WAS THE LORD?
A DEVOTION FROM PORTALS OF PRAYER-SPECIAL EDITION:WHERE IS GOD NOW?
Martha said to Jesus, "Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died."-John 11:21
You can almost hear the accusing questions in Martha's words. What she really was saying is, "Lord, why weren't You here? What took You so long? How could You let this happen?" When we experience some sort of catastrophe or loss, those same questions can run through our minds too. "Where were You, God? Why didn't You stop this?"
Jesus never answers Martha's questions. Instead, He directs her to the truth of who He is. "I AM the resurrection and the life". Though we may not understand why things happen the way they do, the reality is that God is at work for us in Christ to rescue us and give us life and resurrection. He labors for us, not simply to give temporary relief from earthly troubles, but to deliver us eternally from all evil. Not even death can conquer the one who trusts Jesus. He says, "Whoever believes in Me, though he die, yet shall he live." Just as Jesus died and then rose again, so also will all who are baptized into Him. First death, then resurrection--this is the Christian life.
Therefore, we live in hope and confidence, even in trying times. Our Lord leads us through death into life! Lord, help me to trust that in You there is life, even in the midst of death. AMEN.
PRAYER: LORD GOD, HEAVENLY FATHER, YOU HAVE SEARCHED US AND YOU KNOW US. BEFORE A WORD IS ON OUR TONGUES, YOU KNOW IT COMPLETELY. THANK YOU FOR GIVING US FAITH IN YOUR SON, JESUS CHRIST, AND MAKING US YOUR BAPTIZED CHILDREN. PRESERVE US IN FAITH EVEN THOUGH SIN, SATAN, AND DIFFICULT CIRCUMSTANCES TRY TO TEAR IT FROM US. THROUGH THE POWER OF YOUR HOLY SPIRIT, ROOT US ALWAYS IN YOUR HOLY WORD, THAT BY YOUR GRACE WE MAY KNOW AND TRUST OUR SAVIOR'S MERCY AND BELIEVE THAT YOU WILL NEVER FORSAKE ME OR LEAVE ME; THROUGH THE SAME JESUS CHRIST OUR LORD. AMEN.
Thank you for reading, and God bless those who protect and serve us!
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Knowledge vs. Wisdom
Luther wrote: "We are old fools! The more educated and intelligent we become, the less we know and understand."
When I read this quote it reminded me of a study that I did in a class on the subject of wisdom. The question I pose to you today is this....Is there a difference between wisdom and knowledge? When I was attending college at the Univ. of Missouri (MIZZOU for short), I can honestly say that I did not know there was a difference. In college, all is a quest for more knowledge. As the saying goes, knowledge is power. Perhaps in this world there is some truth to that. Though I find myself saying again and again, it is not WHAT you know, but WHO you know that matters more. Don't get me wrong,
I am not getting cynical about knowledge in my old(er) age. But life experience, and more importantly God's Word, have taught me that wisdom is far, far superior to knowledge. Having written that, I am truly very thankful for all the knowledge I have accumulated in school, college, and seminary--not to mention all the experience that has helped me learn!
If college was a quest for more knowledge, then seminary taught me about true wisdom, and how much more important it is.
I will leave you with this Scripture quote from Psalm 111, and will pick this topic up again tomorrow!
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom;
all those who practice it have a good understanding.
His praise endures forever!
When I read this quote it reminded me of a study that I did in a class on the subject of wisdom. The question I pose to you today is this....Is there a difference between wisdom and knowledge? When I was attending college at the Univ. of Missouri (MIZZOU for short), I can honestly say that I did not know there was a difference. In college, all is a quest for more knowledge. As the saying goes, knowledge is power. Perhaps in this world there is some truth to that. Though I find myself saying again and again, it is not WHAT you know, but WHO you know that matters more. Don't get me wrong,
I am not getting cynical about knowledge in my old(er) age. But life experience, and more importantly God's Word, have taught me that wisdom is far, far superior to knowledge. Having written that, I am truly very thankful for all the knowledge I have accumulated in school, college, and seminary--not to mention all the experience that has helped me learn!
If college was a quest for more knowledge, then seminary taught me about true wisdom, and how much more important it is.
I will leave you with this Scripture quote from Psalm 111, and will pick this topic up again tomorrow!
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom;
all those who practice it have a good understanding.
His praise endures forever!
Monday, August 1, 2011
All the little things.
Sorry I have been away from posting for a while. Things have been rather hectic!
Why is it that all the little things that drive us crazy all happen at once? I'm talkin about all
those things that you would rather never happened, but by themselves aren't such a big deal really.
Unfortunately, they tend to all come at the same time. We got a crack in our windshield of the van. Then the "Service Engine" Light comes on in the car. Then my watch battery goes out. Then my sunglasses break when I pick them up. Ok, I am not going to touch anything! (I won't take credit for the van's winshield being cracked either, but sadly the other things I did touch).
Again, if these things each happened one at a time, separated by a little time (weeks, not days), none of them would be horrible, except maybe the two car things (a bit more expensive). I guess today is a venting day. It's hot, I have been running around doing errands I didn't expect to be doing, and I am tired.
When life is dragging you down with all the "little things," Jesus has some divine intervention for you...some words of comfort and mercy for your life.....
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. [29] Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. [30] For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28-30
Thanks for reading and God Bless You!
Why is it that all the little things that drive us crazy all happen at once? I'm talkin about all
those things that you would rather never happened, but by themselves aren't such a big deal really.
Unfortunately, they tend to all come at the same time. We got a crack in our windshield of the van. Then the "Service Engine" Light comes on in the car. Then my watch battery goes out. Then my sunglasses break when I pick them up. Ok, I am not going to touch anything! (I won't take credit for the van's winshield being cracked either, but sadly the other things I did touch).
Again, if these things each happened one at a time, separated by a little time (weeks, not days), none of them would be horrible, except maybe the two car things (a bit more expensive). I guess today is a venting day. It's hot, I have been running around doing errands I didn't expect to be doing, and I am tired.
When life is dragging you down with all the "little things," Jesus has some divine intervention for you...some words of comfort and mercy for your life.....
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. [29] Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. [30] For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28-30
Thanks for reading and God Bless You!
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
The Lord will Provide!
This week's Gospel lesson, which I will be preaching on this coming Sunday(July 31), is the story of Jesus feeding the 5000. As I study the text, it really got me to thinking about how the Lord provides for us. Today, I will begin with the catechetical answer for this from the 1st article of the Apostles' Creed in Luther's Small Catechism. (NOTE: This may be a good opportunity for those of you who have one, to dust it off and take a look at the 1st Article of the Creed and its meaning!) Then I will pose a few questions for you at the end. This week my focus will be all about how the Lord provides for us.
I think that we cannot take a look at how the Lord provides without our starting point being WHY He provides. The answer is really quite simple. He provides for us because He created us.
I beleive 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.
That last part says it all doesn't it. He STILL takes care of them. That is true with all that God creates. Oh it may not look like it sometimes, but the bad and the ugly that we see with our eyes and experience in and around us is what sin has done to corrupt everything that God has created. This certainly does not mean that God, our Creator has stopped providing for us.
How do you recognize when and how God provides for you? Is there any times that it seems to you that God is not providing for your needs or the needs of others? What do you think about homelessness or starvation or those without sufficient clothing and the like?
Thank you for reading, and thanks be to God for all His blessings!
I think that we cannot take a look at how the Lord provides without our starting point being WHY He provides. The answer is really quite simple. He provides for us because He created us.
I beleive 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.
That last part says it all doesn't it. He STILL takes care of them. That is true with all that God creates. Oh it may not look like it sometimes, but the bad and the ugly that we see with our eyes and experience in and around us is what sin has done to corrupt everything that God has created. This certainly does not mean that God, our Creator has stopped providing for us.
How do you recognize when and how God provides for you? Is there any times that it seems to you that God is not providing for your needs or the needs of others? What do you think about homelessness or starvation or those without sufficient clothing and the like?
Thank you for reading, and thanks be to God for all His blessings!
Friday, July 22, 2011
On the burial of my friend and colleague Rev. Lowell Boettcher
A Christian is a person who through faith begins to pass out of this life into heaven as soon as he leaves Baptism. For him Christ is already The Way, The Truth, and The Life and does not cease to be these things til his last hour. Indeed, a Christian always proceeds on this way, led by the truth, to the goal of eternal life. [Martin Luther]
Today, I bury a friend and a colleague, Rev. Lowell Boettcher (emeritus). I have to admit that when I received the call to Peace Lutheran Church in Rapid City, SD I was intimidated--not by the size of the congregation (it was quite a bit larger than my church at that time in rural Iowa); not by the prospect of having to start over in a place I didn't know, among people I didn't know; but by the fact that this church had not one, but two retired pastors. I was foolish to fear this, as both men have been extremely helpful to me these last three years. I had to say goodbye to one of them my first year here. Today, I say goodbye to the other one.
Lowell did so many things for so many people that it will be extremely difficult to fill his shoes. You cannot replace a Lowell Boettcher. We will miss you Lowell, but those who have faith in Christ Jesus will see you again in the presence of Christ our Savior! Rest in the peace of Christ my friend!
That time of year thou mayst in me behold
When yellow leaves, or none, or few, do hang
Upon those boughs which shake against the cold,
Bare ruin'd choirs, where late the sweet birds sang.
In me thou seest the twilight of such day
As after sunset fadeth in the west,
Which by and by black night doth take away,
Death's second self, that seals up all in rest.
In me thou seest the glowing of such fire
That on the ashes of his youth doth lie,
As the death-bed whereon it must expire,
Consum'd with that which it was nourish'd by.
This thou perceiv'st, which makes thy love more strong,
To love that well, which thou must leave ere long.
[William Shakespeare-Sonnet 73]
Thanks for reading and God bless you!
Today, I bury a friend and a colleague, Rev. Lowell Boettcher (emeritus). I have to admit that when I received the call to Peace Lutheran Church in Rapid City, SD I was intimidated--not by the size of the congregation (it was quite a bit larger than my church at that time in rural Iowa); not by the prospect of having to start over in a place I didn't know, among people I didn't know; but by the fact that this church had not one, but two retired pastors. I was foolish to fear this, as both men have been extremely helpful to me these last three years. I had to say goodbye to one of them my first year here. Today, I say goodbye to the other one.
Lowell did so many things for so many people that it will be extremely difficult to fill his shoes. You cannot replace a Lowell Boettcher. We will miss you Lowell, but those who have faith in Christ Jesus will see you again in the presence of Christ our Savior! Rest in the peace of Christ my friend!
That time of year thou mayst in me behold
When yellow leaves, or none, or few, do hang
Upon those boughs which shake against the cold,
Bare ruin'd choirs, where late the sweet birds sang.
In me thou seest the twilight of such day
As after sunset fadeth in the west,
Which by and by black night doth take away,
Death's second self, that seals up all in rest.
In me thou seest the glowing of such fire
That on the ashes of his youth doth lie,
As the death-bed whereon it must expire,
Consum'd with that which it was nourish'd by.
This thou perceiv'st, which makes thy love more strong,
To love that well, which thou must leave ere long.
[William Shakespeare-Sonnet 73]
Thanks for reading and God bless you!
Saturday, July 16, 2011
More from Bonhoeffer: Cheap Grace vs. Costly Grace
from The Cost of Discipleship....
[Cheap Grace] "in such a church the world finds a cheap covering for its sins; no contrition is required, still less any desire to be delivered from sin. Cheap grace therefore ammounts to denial of the living Word of God, in fact, a denial of the incarnation of the Word of God. [The Word became flesh and dwelt among us-John 1:14]
Cheap grace means the justificaiton of sin without the justification of the sinner. Grace alone does everything, they say, and so everything can remain as it was before....Yet it is imperative for the Christian to...distinguish his life from the life of the world. "Instead of following Christ, let the Christian enjoy the consolations of his grace!" That is what we mean by cheap grace, the grace which ammounts to the justification of sin without the justification of the repentant sinner who departs from sin and from whom sin departs. Cheap grace is not the kind of forgiveness of sin which frees us from the toils of sin. Cheap grace is grace that we bestow on ourselves.
Cheap grace is the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance, baptism without church discipline, Holy Communion without confession, absolution without personal confession. Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus Christ, living and incarnate.
[In opposition to this] costly grace is the treasure hidden in the field; for the sake of it a man will gladly go and sell all he has[MT 13:44] It is the pearl of great price to buy, which the merchant will sell all his goods. [MT 13:45-46] It is the kingly rule of Christ, for whose sake a man will pluck out the eye which causes him to stumble [MT 18:9]; it is the call of Jesus Christ at which the disciple leaves his nets and follows him [MT 4:18-22].
Costly grace is the gospel, which must be sought again and again, the gift whiwch must be asked for, the door at which a man must knock [MT 7:7-8].
Such grace is costly because it calls us to follow, and it is grace because it calls us to follow Jesus Christ. It is costly because it costs a man his life, and it is grace because it gives a man the only true life. It is costly because it condemns sin, but it is grace because it justifies the sinner. Above all, it is costly because it cost God the life of His only Son. "You were bought at a price" [I COR 6:19b-20a].
The Cost of Discipleship was published in 1937. It was the most radical work of Bonhoeffer to appear during his lifetime. His concern here was not only the idolatrous nature of the Nazi state, but the deadly compromises of the so-called German Christians who substituted loyalty to the Reich for obedience to the cross.
Thanks for reading and God bless!
[Cheap Grace] "in such a church the world finds a cheap covering for its sins; no contrition is required, still less any desire to be delivered from sin. Cheap grace therefore ammounts to denial of the living Word of God, in fact, a denial of the incarnation of the Word of God. [The Word became flesh and dwelt among us-John 1:14]
Cheap grace means the justificaiton of sin without the justification of the sinner. Grace alone does everything, they say, and so everything can remain as it was before....Yet it is imperative for the Christian to...distinguish his life from the life of the world. "Instead of following Christ, let the Christian enjoy the consolations of his grace!" That is what we mean by cheap grace, the grace which ammounts to the justification of sin without the justification of the repentant sinner who departs from sin and from whom sin departs. Cheap grace is not the kind of forgiveness of sin which frees us from the toils of sin. Cheap grace is grace that we bestow on ourselves.
Cheap grace is the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance, baptism without church discipline, Holy Communion without confession, absolution without personal confession. Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus Christ, living and incarnate.
[In opposition to this] costly grace is the treasure hidden in the field; for the sake of it a man will gladly go and sell all he has[MT 13:44] It is the pearl of great price to buy, which the merchant will sell all his goods. [MT 13:45-46] It is the kingly rule of Christ, for whose sake a man will pluck out the eye which causes him to stumble [MT 18:9]; it is the call of Jesus Christ at which the disciple leaves his nets and follows him [MT 4:18-22].
Costly grace is the gospel, which must be sought again and again, the gift whiwch must be asked for, the door at which a man must knock [MT 7:7-8].
Such grace is costly because it calls us to follow, and it is grace because it calls us to follow Jesus Christ. It is costly because it costs a man his life, and it is grace because it gives a man the only true life. It is costly because it condemns sin, but it is grace because it justifies the sinner. Above all, it is costly because it cost God the life of His only Son. "You were bought at a price" [I COR 6:19b-20a].
The Cost of Discipleship was published in 1937. It was the most radical work of Bonhoeffer to appear during his lifetime. His concern here was not only the idolatrous nature of the Nazi state, but the deadly compromises of the so-called German Christians who substituted loyalty to the Reich for obedience to the cross.
Thanks for reading and God bless!
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
A Little Bit from Dietrich Bonhoeffer
I have been reading Dietrich Bonheoffer's selected writings this week while in office transition due to installation of new carpet, new air conditioning, and a new desk. As a result of my readings, I would like to share this week some excerpts from those selected writings. In some ways I think this man was brilliant. Enjoy!
from Jesus Christ and the Essence of Christianity
Whether in our time Christ can still occupy a place where we make decisions on the deepest matters known to us, over our own life and over the life of our people, that is the question which we will consider today. Whether or not the Spirit of Christ has anything final, definitive, and decisive to say to us, that is what we want to speak about. We all know that Chirst has, in effect, been eliminated from our lives. Of course, we build Him a temple, but we live in our own houses. Christ has become a matter of the church, or, rather, of teh churchiness of a group, not a matter of life. Religion plays for the psyche of the 19th and 20th Centuries the role of so-called Sunday room into which one gladly withdraws for a couple hours only to get back to one's place of work immediately afterward. However, one thing is clear: we understand Christ only if we commit ourselves to Him in a stark "Either-Or." He did not go to the cross to ornament and embellish our lives. If we wish to have Him, then He demands the right to say something decisive about our entire life. We don't understand Him if we arrange for Him only a small compartment in our spiritual life. Rather, we understand our spiritual life only if we then orientate it to Him alone or give Him a flat "NO."
Something to think about! More from Dietrich Bonhoeffer tomorrow.
Thanks for reading, and God bless you!
from Jesus Christ and the Essence of Christianity
Whether in our time Christ can still occupy a place where we make decisions on the deepest matters known to us, over our own life and over the life of our people, that is the question which we will consider today. Whether or not the Spirit of Christ has anything final, definitive, and decisive to say to us, that is what we want to speak about. We all know that Chirst has, in effect, been eliminated from our lives. Of course, we build Him a temple, but we live in our own houses. Christ has become a matter of the church, or, rather, of teh churchiness of a group, not a matter of life. Religion plays for the psyche of the 19th and 20th Centuries the role of so-called Sunday room into which one gladly withdraws for a couple hours only to get back to one's place of work immediately afterward. However, one thing is clear: we understand Christ only if we commit ourselves to Him in a stark "Either-Or." He did not go to the cross to ornament and embellish our lives. If we wish to have Him, then He demands the right to say something decisive about our entire life. We don't understand Him if we arrange for Him only a small compartment in our spiritual life. Rather, we understand our spiritual life only if we then orientate it to Him alone or give Him a flat "NO."
Something to think about! More from Dietrich Bonhoeffer tomorrow.
Thanks for reading, and God bless you!
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