Do Not Lie About Others!

Reading from Proverbs 16:28-29 KJV - Defend your neighbor against lies. 

Baptized For Renewal And Regeneration

And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen. (Matt 28:18:20

What is baptism? Is it something that we choose to do because we want to give ourselves to Jesus or is it truly a gift from God for the growth of His Church; His Kingdom? According to what the Lutheran Church as teaches from Luther's Small Catechism:

First

What is Baptism?

Answer: Baptism is not simple water only, but it is the water comprehended in God’s command and connected with God’s Word.

Which is that word of God?

Answer: Christ, our Lord, says in the last chapter of Matthew: Go ye into all the world and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.

Second

What does Baptism give or profit?

Answer: It works forgiveness of sins, delivers from death and the devil, and gives eternal salvation to all who believe this, as the words and promises of God declare.

Which are such words and promises of God?

Answer: Christ, our Lord, says in the last chapter of Mark: He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.

Third

How can water do such great things?

Answer: It is not the water indeed that does them, but the word of God which is in and with the water, and faith, which trusts such word of God in the water. For without the word of God the water is simple water and no baptism. But with the word of God it is a baptism, that is, a gracious water of life and a washing of regeneration in the Holy Ghost, as St. Paul says, Titus, chapter three: By the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost, which He shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ, our Savior, that, being justified by His grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. This is a faithful saying.

Fourth

What does such baptizing with water signify?

Answer: It signifies that the old Adam in us should, by daily contrition and repentance, be drowned and die with all sins and evil lusts, and, again, a new man daily come forth and arise; who shall live before God in righteousness and purity forever.

Where is this written?

Answer: St. Paul says Romans, chapter 6: We are buried with Christ by Baptism into death, that, like as He was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

                                                   http://bookofconcord.org/smallcatechism.php

Baptism is not the same as taking a bath. Water alone may wash the outside of the body; but, it cannot cleanse our souls. Water with the Word received in the Sacrament of Baptism; however, washes us through and through.

I am often asked why I would baptize infants. My answer (in short, because this is just a blog) is that first we are commanded to baptize all nations; all people. That does not exclude children. Jesus said we are not to hinder the children from going to him. I have also been told that babies cannot believe so therefore they should not receive this Sacrament. Jesus also said that in order to enter into the kingdom of God we must become like little children. (Matt 18:2-3) Knowledge or intelligence does not necessarily equate with faith. Just because little children do not have the same knowledge that some adults have we should not equate that with an inability to have faith. Faith, itself, is a gift from God and is not something we muster up on our own. Many of the little children that I've known probably have more than most adults Christians as they have not yet been subjected to the doubts of this world.

Most importantly, baptism is a gift from God, for the washing and regeneration of all people and for renewing by the Holy Spirit. When Jesus was baptized in the Jordan, the Holy Spirit came down upon him in the form of a dove. When we are baptized, we are anointed by the Holy Spirit, for regeneration and renewal. I would not presume to withhold this gift of God; His very presence, from anyone, especially a child. Would you demand that a child go through life without this gift?

My parents were not church going people. But, they saw fit to have me baptized at home at about age five. I thank God that they did this for me. I thank God that Pr. Leslie Niemi was willing to officiate at our home. I know that it is preferable that baptism take place within the church. But, I thank God that Pr. Les was not willing to withhold this Sacrament from me for any reason. I remember that day; although, it has been so long ago and details are getting a little foggy. I thank God for the regeneration by the power of the Holy Spirit that began so many years ago. I do not want to even consider where and what I would be today if it had not been for the events of that day. Thank you Pr. Les for being a servant of God.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Communicate Truthfully

Now the chief priests, and elders, and all the council, sought false witness against Jesus, to put him to death;

But found none: yea, though many false witnesses came, yet found they none. At the last came two false witnesses,

And said, This fellow said, I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days.

                         (Matt 26:59-61 KJV)

Jesus was crucified, not on any real evidence of blasphemy because there was no evidence. But, that did not stop false witnesses from coming forward and twisting Jesus' words to make them sound like the words meant something that they did not mean. He was speaking of his own death and resurrection. But, those who wanted him gone accepted it to mean that he was able to and going to destroy the Jewish Temple and if he chose would miraculously build it up in three days. No one could do that except God. It was God's temple to do with as He pleased, not Jesus'; therefore, blasphemy...

Scripture requires two or more witnesses and that would mean reliable eye-witnesses, not false witnesses, to find a person guilty. Perjuring yourself to assist in finding another person guilty of a crime that was not committed is a sin. It is definitely against the law. Well; that is, it is a crime in a court of law. Whether that law is valid in every hearing today is a bit questionable. 

Apparently, lying about others isn't so bad if you haven't taken an oath to tell the truth. We hear it and read it all of the time in the various forms of media. We even hear it after someone takes the oath. Perjury, as previously noted, is illegal and could get you jail time yourself.

One of my pet peeves is the lack of ability to communicate; especially the inability to understand what others actually mean. This country is diverse whether everyone wants to acknowledge it or not. Diversity includes people from many ethnic backgrounds; from many cultures; from different generations; from various regions. The words one person uses to say something does not always mean the same thing to the person who hears it. 

One of my granddaughter's uses the words "passed out" to mean she fell asleep. I guess that is how many in her generation describe being so tired they fall asleep without trying. I've asked her not to use those words to describe falling asleep as to me and to many of my generation it means got so drunk they fell asleep or "passed out." I don't want anyone to get the wrong idea about her. 

As we are so diverse, maybe it's time before we jump to judgment on what someone is saying that we begin attempting to understand who the speaker is and where the speaker is coming from. That seems to be a much better solution to some of the communication issues in this country than slandering the speaker and ending up a false witness to what was actually said.

None of this is not to say that we should not speak the truth. The truth does need to be communicated. Let us communicate it plainly without false accusations. And... if what you are relating is a joke or satire; please, present it in a way that people know that it is. 

May God help us to refrain from passing false judgment on those whom we are unable to understand or relate to. 

God's Peace - Pr. J.

The Eighth Commandment

You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.

What does this mean? We should fear and love God so that we do not tell lies about our neighbor, betray him, slander him, or hurt his reputation, but defend him, speak well of him, and explain everything in the kindest way.

                                                                 (Luther's Small Catechism)

I Believe That I Cannot Believe

"But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you."

                                                                                    John 14:26 NRSV

 

No photos today as I am at a theological conference on the Holy Spirit and have limited resources; a very old laptop that does not cooperate.  Speaking of cooperating.... Here's a very sticky thing for people to grasp:  The Holy Spirit calls and gathers us. We don't go to Christ alone. We don't do it. We can do nothing without God. We can not even believe without the Holy Spirit. We cannot even call Jesus, Savior and Lord, without the Holy  Spirit. But, we like to claim credit, anyway. So, we use words like let him into our hearts; we cooperate with him. These are all ways to glorify ourselves; like we somehow have done something good for ourselves. That is our ego talking. God gets the glory! If it is us we are trying to lift up; then we are committing idolatry, lifting ourselves up to be god.

 

A refresher from Luther's Small Catechism (CPH) for those who may have forgotten that God the Holy Spirit brings us to and keeps us in the faith. We do not. 

The Third Article: Sanctification

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Christian church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

 

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

 

This is most certainly true.

 

It would be a good idea to quit worrying about what you have to do to be a more faithful Christian. The Holy Spirit is busy bringing you to it!

 

God's Peace - Pr. J

 

Office of the Keys and Confession

This Lenten Season we have been going through the chief parts of Luther's Small Catechism. This week, our topic is "The Office of the Keys and Confession." Those of us who have any years in the Lutheran Church behind us probably recall something called the Office of the Keys. It is no longer taught in every Lutheran Congregation. The lack of it's use within the church has subtly eroded the understanding of what it means to be a follower of Jesus. It has led to a widespread false teaching that has many neglecting or refusing to acknowledge that they have sinned against God and against others. They would say that God loves us no matter what we do so we can just go ahead and do it. There is no need for forgiveness because we have not sinned. Without the Office of the Keys in these latter years, many have come to believe that there is forgiveness without repentance. This is purely cheap grace and cheap grace is no grace at all. Forgiveness of our sins came at a great cost. It cost Jesus his life.

Indeed, God does loves us so much that He gave His only begotten Son for all people. But, do all people love Him enough to repent of their sins? Do they love Him enough to turn away from their sinful ways and turn to this God who loves us so much? Does the sacrifice that Christ made for us mean so little that we would continue to follow in the ways of the world; in the ways of the evil one; rather than the one who loves us that much?

There have been times that I have been accused of not being very Christian because I take seriously the Office of the Keys as an office held by His Church on earth. The name-calling is just a little thing and it is something I am willing to live with as I cannot say that what is a sin is not a sin. I will not cheapen the sacrifice that Christ made for us in that manner. It is better to serve God than the world.

Please, consider the Office of the Keys and Confession from the Small Catechism as I and many of you learned it in confirmation classes many years ago. . 

THE OFFICE OF THE KEYS AND CONFESSION

 What is the Office of the Keys?

The Office of the Keys is the special authority which Christ has given to His Church on earth: to forgive the sins of the penitent sinners, but to retain the sins of the impenitent as long as they do not repent.

Where is this written?

The evangelist writes, John 20:22-23: “Jesus breathed on His disciples and said to them, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; and if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.’”

What is Confession?

Confession consists of two parts: one, that we confess our sins; the other, that we receive absolution, or forgiveness, from the pastor or confessor as from God himself, and in no way doubt, but firmly believe that our sins are thereby forgiven before God in heaven.

What sins should we confess?

Before God we should acknowledge ourselves guilty of all sins, even of those which we do not know about, as we do in the Lord’s Prayer. But before the pastor or confessor we should acknowledge those sins only which we know and feel in our hearts.

Which are these?

Here consider your own situation according to the Ten Commandments, whether you are a father, mother, son, daughter, employer, employee; whether you have been disobedient, dishonest, lazy; whether you have injured anyone by word or deed; whether you have stolen, neglected, wasted anything, or done any harm."

God grant us such great love for Him that we would turn and follow in the footsteps of Jesus. God's Peace be with you all - Pr. J.

Fake News And False Witness (Conspiracy Theories?)

Thou shall not bear false witness against thy neighbor. (Ex 20:16)

What does this mean?  We should fear and love God that we may not deceitfully lie, betray, slander, nor defame our neighbor, but defend him, speak well of him, and put the best construction on everything. (Luther's Small Catechism)

I come from a family of storytellers. Though, he rarely spent time with his grandchildren, I understand that my paternal grandfather could tell some pretty good stories when he was with his friends. My Uncle Leonard was a great storyteller. He told us many bedtime stories in hopes that we would fall asleep. The one I remember most is how he captured a field mouse, taught it to speak, and sold it to Ed Sullivan. Some of you might remember that little mouse, Topo Gigo, that starred on the Ed Sullivan Show. The story went on and on over many visits. Each time he told the story, he added more to it. As a child, I believed him. Then there was my father's cousin, Frans Sillanpaa, the first Finnish author to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. Yes, I come from a family of storytellers and I am pretty good at being able to discern between fiction and the truth. But...not always. There are just way too many opinions, theories, and conspiracy theories running around to have the time to pick through what is truth and what is fiction. Life is really too short to get caught up in all of that.  

The mainstream media presents a lot of opinions; without basis in any facts, as truth. It's what's called fake news. It appears; though, that there is a whole other side to this fake news. That other side is all of those conspiracy theories that are being thrust upon us. Some of them actually seem like they might have some validity to them. Others do not. The latest conspiracy theory and the one that prompted today's blog is one I saw on Facebook this morning. The theory is that Finland does not actually exist. Finland is a lie created by Russia and Japan to aid in Japan's fishing industry. Hmmm.... Yeah.... Major storytelling.... Oi Vey! 

When such outlandish stories are put out there; it is pretty difficult to accept any of the conspiracy theories we read or hear about. We just want to dismiss them all even if some might end up being truth. Why not just tell the truth based on real facts all of the time or at least most of the time!? And... who comes up with these stories anyway? It crossed my mind this morning that it might just be the CIA in order to keep us from believing anything conspiracy theories about them. Okay... I am just joking. There is no basis in fact to that statement. None whatsoever. Do not perpetuate that story!

I understand that there can be some big money to be made in storytelling; in fake news. These fictional stories; fake news, can also thrust someone into the limelight and help swell the ego mighty large and some people really do enjoy being the center of attention.

Many of these stories are being the told under the guise of bringing truth to light; to protect us from further harm; even to bring about peace in the world. But, lies and the purposeful slander of others are definitely not the way anyone is going to find peace. Live life in the present and live it without fear. Do not be creating fake news to protect yourself or to make gains for yourself. Live life in the truth, who is Jesus the Christ.

Have a blessed day and maybe turn off the news for at least a day or two. Live life in peace.

God's Peace - Pr. Judy

Respect Civil Authorities

Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. (Rom 13:1-4 NIV)

Concerning Civil Government.

Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For the power which exists anywhere is ordained of God. Whosoever resisteth the power resisteth the ordinance of God; and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For he beareth not the sword in vain; for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Rom. 13:1-4.

Book of Concord; Luther's Small Catechism/Table of Duties

 

We see more and more disrespect for our elected officials and public servants as each year passes. Unless, it clearly goes against the word and the will of God there is no excuse for the public to persecute these men and women so unjustly. I am old enough to remember a time when whether we particularly liked our president or not, we still respected the office of the President of the United States and we showed it. It's not all that apparent today. There are peaceful means in place to replace them. If the majority wants someone out of office they will use those means. We do not have to become so ugly that we look like bullies to do it.

 

A person gets stopped because of a possible traffic violation and instead of cooperating they choose to disrespect the person stopping them by refusing to cooperate. A neighbor reports unruly behavior and instead of responding calmly to the officers or possibly protective service workers who show up at your door; they are met by all sorts of disrespectful attitudes and behavior. That is surely not God's will. Those men and women who are responding to the call are there to ensure that you and all of your household are safe and well.

 

It is not God's will that we should set ourselves in such a high place that we think that we are above the law of the land. The law of the land is not just for everyone else. It is for all people. It is not God's will that we should act like uncooperative bullies; but, to use the system that has been set in place for the good of all people. Use the system to try to change the system if it needs changing. Violence against others is not the way to get what you might want. Those who would encourage other than peaceful protests that result in harm to others as well as the property of others go against the will of God. He is the provider of all. We don't get to destroy the property of others and still say that we are doing God's will.

 

God's will is for the good of all people; not just for you; not just for the few.

 

May God help us to live peacefully in the land.

 

Pr. J

No Anger And Malice!

"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice." (Eph 4:29-31 NIV)

As Lutherans, we learn at a young age what the eighth commandment means according to our Small Catechism:

   Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.

   What does this mean?--Answer.
   We should fear and love God that we may not deceitfully belie, betray, slander, or defame our
   neighbor, but defend him, [think and] speak well of him, and put the best construction on
   everything.

Whether in government, business, the church or even our families it is way too common for unwholesome talk to be the way in which many choose to go. This unwholesome talk, this yelling at or about someone, this disrespecting others' way thinking or being only brings about division and harm. We witnessed a very good example of that yesterday on the ball field where Republican Congressmen were practicing for a game with the Democrats. Five people shot and wounded; with the shooter ending up dead. So much grief for so many. There are peaceful ways to discuss and settle differences. We also need to understand that we don't always get our way. Sometimes, there needs to be compromise. Sometimes, we just need to accept the fact that someone else is in charge for now. It also wouldn't hurt if we reminded ourselves that it is God who is actually in charge and He does have a good plan whether we like the plan or not.

Peaceful protests can be a good thing. But, speeches and protests that incite damage to others or their property or promote the murder of people whom we don't agree with is very wrong. This hatred toward others will only bring about more hatred. It will only bring about more division. It will only bring about more death. If, we as a country, do not change some of our ways we may find that we have steered ourselves into a civil war. Do we really want that for our children and grandchildren? This hate-filled speech that we keep hearing is not helpful nor is the drama that comes with it. It is most harmful. Gossip (and I have been the subject of that on more than one occasion) will only cause more problems for both the one who slanders and the one who is slandered as well as the many people around them.

Scripture tells us that we are to lift others up according to their needs. We are to get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. I grant you that this can be tough to do at times. If you find yourself ready to participate in bringing about more division with unwholesome talk, maybe take a time out for yourself? Talk to God? You might find that distancing yourself from the situation (maybe shutting the news off) for a time will help bring you back to a place where you can focus on God's will rather than your own. His will is a good will for you and all people.

I realize that there will always be trouble in this world; but, why do we have to add to it? "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, alone with every form of malice." Do what is right! Speak the truth; but, speak it in love and not anger! Live in peace!

God's Peace - Pr. J

The Holy Spirit Grows The Church

The Holy Spirit; the Spirit of Christ, grows and edifies the church

in heaven and on earth; which is the Body of Christ.

Apostle's Creed
The Third Article.

Of Sanctification.

I believe in the Holy Ghost; one holy Christian Church, the communion of saints; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body; and the life everlasting. Amen.

What does this mean?--Answer.
I believe that I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him; but the Holy Ghost has called me by the Gospel, enlightened me with His gifts, sanctified and kept me in the true faith; even as He calls, gathers, enlightens, and sanctifies the whole Christian Church on earth, and keeps it with Jesus Christ in the one true faith; in which Christian Church He forgives daily and richly all sins to me and all believers, and at the last day will raise up me and all the dead, and will give to me and to all believers in Christ everlasting life. This is most certainly true.

  http://bookofconcord.org/smallcatechism.php

This past week, I felt the Holy Spirit moving in a very powerful way. Now, when the Holy Spirit moves it is good thing to go wherever the Spirit leads you; do whatever the Spirit is inspiring you to do. 

My congregation, as hopefully all congregations, has been more seriously focusing on evangelism (and ultimately church growth) for the past few months. I have been around for awhile. I have seen many church growth programs. Church growth programs tend to be one of my pet peeves. There really is no one church growth program that fits all congregations. There is not one church growth program that will have any lasting effect unless it is empowered by the Holy Spirit.

We can use all the power and might; all the reason; all the energy that we can muster, and it will not avail us. It is the Holy Spirit that calls and gathers; enlightens; brings us to; and, keeps us in the one true faith. Without the Spirit of Christ we can do nothing! All the programs in the world will accomplish nothing without the Spirit of Christ. It is only Christ who saves! It is the Spirit of Christ; the Holy Spirit; who for 2000 years has brought growth to the Body of Christ. If we claim any of that for ourselves we are denying the power of the Holy Spirit. We are denying the power of God and lifting ourselves up in the place of God. Very, very, bad idea! Not only is that blasphemy, it would be a very fruitless effort.

I am not saying that we should not reach out to the world with the Good News. I am saying that we need to trust in the power of the Holy Spirit that works in and through us to do that. Jesus said that he would send the helper to guide us in the truth. It would greatly behoove us to listen to the Spirit of Truth rather than the world.

May the Lord our God fill His whole church on earth with the power of the Holy Spirit that we might live and reach out to others in His truth and in His love.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Given And Shed For You!

VI. The Sacrament of the Altar
As the head of the family should teach it in a simple way to his household.

What is the Sacrament of the Altar?

It is the true body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, under the bread and wine, for us Christians to eat and to drink, instituted by Christ Himself.

Where is this written?

The holy Evangelists, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and St. Paul, write thus:

     Our Lord Jesus Christ, the same night in which He was betrayed, took bread: and when He had given thanks, He brake it, and gave it to His disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is My body, which is given for you. This do in remembrance of Me.

     After the same manner also He took the cup, when He had supped, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Take, drink ye all of it. This cup is the new testament in My blood, which is shed for you for the remission of sins. This do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of Me.

What is the benefit of such eating and drinking?

That is shown us in these words: Given, and shed for you, for the remission of sins; namely, that in the Sacrament forgiveness of sins, life, and salvation are given us through these words. For where there is forgiveness of sins, there is also life and salvation.

How can bodily eating and drinking do such great things?

It is not the eating and drinking, indeed, that does them, but the words which stand here, namely: Given, and shed for you, for the remission of sins. Which words are, beside the bodily eating and drinking, as the chief thing in the Sacrament; and he that believes these words has what they say and express, namely, the forgiveness of sins.

Who, then, receives such Sacrament worthily?

Fasting and bodily preparation is, indeed, a fine outward training; but he is truly worthy and well prepared who has faith in these words: Given, and shed for you, for the remission of sins.

But he that does not believe these words, or doubts, is unworthy and unfit; for the words For you require altogether believing hearts.

http://bookofconcord.org/smallcatechism.php

While serving at Aura Lutheran, a tiny country church, a few years ago my granddaughter asked me about the "script" I was using. I told her I don't use a "script" there as we don't have room on the altar for the altar book or any scripts. I let her that I knew the words and I didn't need notes for Holy Communion. She laughed saying that one of these days I'm going to forget them and then I'll be in trouble. Well, it happened, almost...

One Sunday not long after this conversation, the tiny church was packed with members and visitors. It was very warm and the doors to the church were wide open so that the very slight breeze could enter. As I lifted the cup, I noticed a woman sitting on the very steep concrete steps outside the church door. Not sure why she was sitting there, a wave of concern for her health flooded me. I totally forgot the words of institution as I watched her for a moment, long enough to see that she was okay and was getting up and coming in to receive the Lord's body and blood into herself. Halfway through the words of institution, I had to grasp to find the right words. They came back to me quickly. I learned them years ago as a teen-ager in confirmation class. Some things one never forgets. 

The body and blood of our Lord, Jesus Christ is given and shed for you for the forgiveness of sins. As we receive this Sacrament, we believe that Jesus is present in with and under the elements of bread and wine. We truly receive his body and blood. In this Sacrament we receive the living presence of Jesus Christ into ourselves. He abides in us. Do not neglect to receive this precious life-giving gift. 

St. Paul reminds us in 1 Cor 11:29-30: "For those who eat and drink without discerning the body of Christ eat and drink judgment on themselves. That is why many among you are weak and sick, and a number of you have fallen asleep."  This has a two-fold meaning. First, we ought to recognize that what we are receiving is the body of Christ. This is not just a memorial. He is truly present in the Sacrament of Holy Communion. We remember his death; the sacrifice of his body and blood for us. Yet, he is not dead. He lives. He is risen! He is ascended! He is present! Secondly, everyone at the table with you is a member of the body of Christ. It seems that some of the Corinthians had a habit of not thinking about their brothers and sisters in Christ and did not wait for them to partake of the meal. They went ahead, without them, concerned only for themselves. Do not neglect to recognize the sacrifice of our Lord or the living body of Christ in the Sacrament and do not neglect to recognize the living body of Christ that would kneel at the altar with you. 

May God imprint the promise heard in the words of institution upon your heart and mind that you might fully grasp what he has done for you. And... may the Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen you and keep you in His grace.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Confess And Be Forgiven

CONFESSION

How Christians should be taught to confess.

What is Confession?

Confession embraces two parts: the one is, that we confess our sins; the other, that we receive absolution, or forgiveness, from the confessor, as from God Himself, and in no wise doubt, but firmly believe, that our sins are thereby forgiven before God in heaven.

What sins should we confess?

Before God we should plead guilty of all sins, even of those which we do not know, as we do in the Lord's Prayer. But before the confessor we should confess those sins alone which we know and feel in our hearts.

Which are these?

Here consider your station according to the Ten Commandments, whether you are a father, mother, son, daughter, master, mistress, a man-servant or maid-servant; whether you have been disobedient, unfaithful, slothful; whether you have grieved any one by words or deeds; whether you have stolen, neglected, or wasted aught, or done other injury.

http://bookofconcord.org/smallcatechism.php

 

No, the confessional has not been done away with in the Lutheran church. Yes, we confess our sins corporately and receive absolution every Sunday morning at Christ Lutheran Church. Yes, I am available to hear private confessions whenever you feel the need. I assume that all Christians are aware that they are able to confess their sins directly to God. However, I am also aware that many Lutherans are not aware that private confession with their pastors is also available. I do not hear many private confessions. Mostly, the ones I have heard from younger people.

Some of us are so troubled by our consciences that we need to be able to put voice to our sins and hear with our ears and believe these words: "You are forgiven. God forgives you all your sins." There is no need to be burdened by the sins that trouble your conscience in such a way that it disrupts your ability to serve God or neighbor. Confess your sins so that you might be reassured that you have been forgiven and reconciled to God our Father, through Jesus the Christ, by the power of the Holy Spirit.

 

God's Peace - Pr. J

Deliver Us From Evil

THE LORD'S PRAYER
The Seventh Petition.

But deliver us from evil.

What does this mean?--Answer.
We pray in this petition, as in a summary, that our Father in heaven would deliver us from all manner of evil, of body and soul, property and honor, and at last, when our last hour shall come, grant us a blessed end, and graciously take us from this vale of tears to Himself into heaven. Amen.

What does this mean?--Answer.
That I should be certain that these petitions are acceptable to our Father in heaven and heard; for He Himself has commanded us so to pray, and has promised that He will hear us. Amen, Amen; that is, Yea, yea, it shall be so.

(http://bookofconcord.org/smallcatechism.php)

 

In this petition we pray that we be kept from all evils that plague this world. Martin Luther in the Large Catechism wrote: "But this petition he has put last, for if we are to be protected and delivered from all evil, his name must be hallowed in us, his kingdom come among us, and his will be done. Then he will preserve us from sin and shame and from everything else that harms or injures us."

 

Therefore; all of the petitions in the Lord's Prayer must be prayed with a sincere faith that God hears our prayers and answers. We cannot expect to be kept from evil if we do not revere God's name which is who and what He is; if we do not desire to live in his kingdom; or if we do not desire that his will be done among us here on earth. His will is for our good. If we do not desire his will to be done, how are we to expect that we are to kept safe from the evil one? It would be tantamount to jumping into a bonfire and expect not to get burned. Of course, all things are possible with God. But, it's probably not the best idea to be testing him. Jesus wouldn't, why would we think we can or should?

 

So we pray the Lord's prayer with faith and all God's people say Amen; that's the way it is. We give thanks for in His mercy He has heard our prayers and answered.

 

God's Peace - Pr. J

Lead Us Not Into Temptation

The Sixth Petition.

And lead us not into temptation.

What does this mean?--Answer.
God, indeed, tempts no one; but we pray in this petition that God would guard and keep us, so that the devil, the world, and our flesh may not deceive us, nor seduce us into misbelief, despair, and other great shame and vice; and though we be assailed by them, that still we may finally overcome and gain the victory.

http://bookofconcord.org/smallcatechism.php

 

Every day we face temptations. To some of these we succumb. To others we do not. Often we fail to even recognize that we are being tempted to do or say or think something that we ought not. The world around us tells us that what is wrong is right and what is right is wrong. It can be very confusing.



It can be especially confusing for young people who grow up with just a little knowledge of God; but, with way more knowledge of the progressive and materialistic world that we live in. They have been taught (by adults and the world around them) to follow in the ways that they think will provide them with happiness in the moment and not to consider too much the long term consequences of their choices. 

 

God's way is not our way. His way is not the way of the world. We have to be careful that what we say and do is not because this is the way of the world; but, that this is the way in which God would have us go. I know how very difficult it is to discern what is right and what is wrong in many circumstances and so we pray that God would guard and keep us from temptation and when we are tempted that He would help us to be able to stand and say no to them.

 

God's Peace - Pr. J 

Forgive Us!

THE LORD'S PRAYER

The Fifth Petition.

And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.

What does this mean?--Answer.
We pray in this petition that our Father in heaven would not look upon our sins, nor deny such petitions on account of them; for we are worthy of none of the things for which we pray, neither have we deserved them; but that He would grant them all to us by grace; for we daily sin much, and indeed deserve nothing but punishment. So will we verily, on our part, also heartily forgive and also readily do good to those who sin against us.

The Book of Concord

Forgive us our trespasses. We begin this petition by asking that our sins be forgiven. We begin by acknowledging that we have sinned against God and others. We begin with repentance. We understand that we are sinful beings and that without the grace and mercy of God we would be lost for all eternity. It is only by faith in the redeeming sacrifice of Jesus on the cross that we can be saved. 

In John's first epistle we are reminded: "If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us." (1 John 1:8 NKJV) It is very difficult to receive forgiveness if we cannot acknowledge that we have sinned and in need of forgiveness. It is like a pitcher filled with sour milk. There is no way you can add fresh milk to the pitcher. There is no room and even if there were the fresh milk would also become rancid. The pitcher must be emptied and cleansed first.  

Having worked as a cognitive behavior treatment specialist at a correctional facility as well as having served in pastoral ministry for over twenty years, I have witnessed and addressed the various ways that human beings deny the truth of their sinful nature. One of the most common ways to deny the truth of our own sinful nature is to attempt to justify one's actions by pointing out someone else's sins. In other words, we direct the focus onto others in the hopes that our owns sins will not be quite so visible to the people around us. During confessions like this, I usually remind them that we are not called to confess the sins of others; but, to confess our own sins.

We are called to repentance; to turn around and follow in the footsteps of Jesus in and to the Kingdom of God. Jesus, the only one without sin, was willing to take the sins of the world upon himself and to be crucified for our sins that we might be reconciled to God and to one another. He was willing to die that we might receive forgiveness and live life in him. It behooves us then, if we are to truly follow in his footsteps, to forgive others even as we would desire to be forgiven.

It is not now or ever helpful for one to confess the perceived sins of others, day after day, year after year. This is not will not aid us in any way to continue on the path that Jesus would lead us on. It is a major distraction and will only lead us on the path to destruction. It is definitely not a way to witness to God's great mercy and love for us and for all people.

Repent and receive the forgiveness of sins that cost Jesus his life. Turn around and follow him on the path to eternal life. Forgive others even as you are forgiven.

According to the Gospel of Luke (17:3-4), Jesus tells us: “If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them.  Even if they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying ‘I repent,’ you must forgive them.”

May God help us to repent of our own sins and to forgive one another even as He forgives us.

God's Peace - Pr. Judy

Give Us This Day Our Daily Bread

THE LORD's PRAYER

The Fourth Petition.

Give us this day our daily bread.

What does this mean?--Answer.
God gives daily bread, even without our prayer, to all wicked men; but we pray in this petition that He would lead us to know it, and to receive our daily bread with thanksgiving.

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

(http://bookofconcord.org/smallcatechism.php)

 

There was no bread in the desert.  There was no meat to eat in the wilderness.  The Israelites were hungry and complained saying it would be better to be slaves in Egypt rather than following the Lord through the wilderness to the promised land.  The Lord heard them complaining.  He provided daily bread. But, he provided no more than they needed except for on the day before the Sabbath so that they would have enough to sustain them on the Sabbath.  He proved bread in the morning and quail for meat each evening.  But, some people tried to hoard it.  They did not understand that the Lord was trying to teach them to trust him and not the rulers of this world for their daily bread.  The extra bread that they tried to collect and save up for themselves spoiled so that worms lived in it.   For forty years the Lord provided this daily bread to his children.

Give us this day our daily bread. We pray it all the time. I remember Howard and my first few years of marriage. Wow! Talk about broke! He was a young Marine and I will tell you that at that time; even though I worked as well, there was not much of an income.  I had a budget of $20.00 for groceries for the month. Before I went shopping, I would do a whole month's menu just so not a penny would be wasted. Sometimes we ended up short. For some reason, I didn't think about applying for food stamps. I think I may have felt that they were for those who had less than we had. I actually felt quite blessed at the time. After all, there was always something to eat on the table. Suppers on those last days of the month sometimes were pretty sparse. They consisted of things like pancakes without eggs, basically flour and water with a  little margarine and sugar sprinkled on top or homemade bean soup. We ate a lot of homemade bean soup. But, we ate. We were provided for. Even though at times there was no meat for the table, there was always bread - sometimes homemade. God provided for our daily needs.

God provides for all that we need; not just the food which sustains our bodies. Do we really trust Him to take care of all of our needs or are we busy striving for more for ourselves? Are we willing to sell ourselves back into the bondage of people, places, things?  In whom do we trust to care of us:  God or the world? 

 

May God teach us to depend on Him above all others and then to use the gifts that He gives to us that others may also not be in need of life sustaining daily bread.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Thy Will Be Done

The Lord's Prayer

The Third Petition.

Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

What does this mean?--Answer.

The good and gracious will of God is done indeed without our prayer; but we pray in this petition that it may be done among us also.

How is this done?--Answer.

When God breaks and hinders every evil counsel and will which would not let us hallow the name of God nor let His kingdom come, such as the will of the devil, the world, and our flesh; but strengthens and keeps us steadfast in His Word and in faith unto our end. This is His gracious and good will.

http://bookofconcord.org/smallcatechism.php

Do we really want His will to be done on earth as it is in heaven? I know we pray this often; but, do we really mean it? Are we really willing to help and support the church on earth beginning with our own congregations more than we desire for our own wills and desired to be pursued? Are we really willing to let our own selfish wills die in order that His will be done for the greater good; for the good of others; for the growth of the church? God's will is that the church on earth be edified and grow. Scripture tells us that we are to work together that His will be done on earth as it is in heaven. It is Jesus' command to us to go forth and proclaim the Good New of the Kingdom; to teach all nations, all people, what he has taught us so that all people might hear, believe and be saved. If this were not God's will, why would He be willing to send His only begotten Son to suffer and die for us? Jesus died for others. He was willing to suffer all hardship and die for us. Our will is usually only for our own personal good. God's will is for the good of all. May God help us to focus on His will rather than allow the evil one to distract us from the mission to which we are called.

The devil can use all sorts of people (Christians and non-Christians) to throw all kinds of obstacles in the way of God's will being done. Nevertheless; ultimately, His will will be done. He is; after all, God so I am not sure why we are always fighting His will and so busy trying to inflict our own wills on the people and the world around us. 

May God keep us all steadfast in His Word and in faith, according to His good and gracious will.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Thy Kingdom Come

The Lord's Prayer

The Second Petition.

Thy kingdom come.

What does this mean?--Answer.

The kingdom of God comes indeed without our prayer, of itself; but we pray in this petition that it may come unto us also.

How is this done?--Answer.
When our heavenly Father gives us His Holy Spirit, so that by His grace we believe His holy Word and lead a godly life here in time and yonder in eternity.

(http://bookofconcord.org/smallcatechism.php)

By faith alone!

The kingdom of God has come and we, by faith, in our Lord, Jesus the Christ, are residents of that kingdom, even now.

Yes, we live in this world; but, all who believe also live in the kingdom and under the gracious rule of God our Father and the Lord Jesus the Christ, by the power of the Holy Spirit. It is such a grievous thing when God's own beloved children focus so much on the world and the support of the world that they cannot recognize that God is with them, even now. It is such a sad state that His own children refuse to recognize that we might live in the Kingdom of God, even now.

We pray that His Kingdom would come quite often. But, is the Kingdom or the world our heart's true desire? By many a Christian's words and actions the true state of our hearts is often seen by the world. Do we truly desire to have the Kingdom come into our lives or are we clinging ever so tightly to the world and it's ways?

The heavenly kingdom is not just for a time after physical death. When that temple curtain was ripped in half at the time of Jesus' death; the doors to the kingdom were flung wide open. The kingdom comes by the work of our Lord. May God help us to live in His kingdom; to live in His presence; beginning today and for all time.

God's Peace - Pr. J

No Other Gods!

“I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. You shall have no other gods before me." Ex 20:2-3

The First Commandment as taught to our children from Luther's Small Catechism
"You shall have no other gods.

What does this mean? We should fear, love, and trust in God above all things."

I spent many, many, years as a wife of a U.S. Marine. They have a saying: "God, Country, Corps." That is the proper order. God always comes first. There can be no other gods. There can be no other priorities. When faithfulness to God comes first, faithfulness to our other obligations just falls into place, with the help of God. But, if we cannot be faithful to God, then we will not be faithful to anything or anyone else, either.

As a Marine Corps wife, I spent a lot of time raising two sons alone as my husband was deployed for far more than half of his career. I had no other family near. As bad as that might sound, it was a good thing. Through this time, I learned that there is one I can trust all of the time and that is God. Through this time, I learned that there was one who loved me like no other. God was there when no one else was. I wasn't always thrilled with the way He worked things out; but, I came to know and trust that no matter how He was working them out; they were being worked out for the good.

The best thing that we can do for our loved ones, for our country, for our world, is to fear, love and trust God above all things; to put Him first in our lives; and to follow in the way that He would have us go. His plan is perfect for us. Ours is not.

God's Peace - Pr. J