Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ (Eph 1:2). Amen.
There are some things you can scan quickly—like a postcard mailed from a boy at camp, others you have to scour slowly—like a textbook printed by a scholar about physics.
Why? You want to make sure that you don’t miss anything.
It is not hard to get a scribbled note: “You wish you were here.” You can glance at that casually and go on.
It is not so simple to grasp a complicated formula: E=mc2. (In case you forgot: “Energy equals mass times the speed of light squared.” Thanks, Mr. Einstein.) You have to pour over that carefully and go over it again.
It is just a paragraph from the apostle Paul which stretches from eternity to eternity—something God planned and performed. It is not necessarily light reading. But it is very comforting reading. We join him in this thought. Praise God for his glorious grace. You are selected by the Father, saved through the Son, and sealed with the Spirit. We read from …
Ephesians 1:3-14
Dear People of our Glorious God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,
A doxology is a hymn of praise. Paul is no stranger to them when it comes to God. In his letters, he breaks out in song in the middle of them (Ro 11:33-36). He busts out at the end of them (Php 4:20). It is the same at the start of them like the section before us.
He couldn’t help singing God’s praise. No matter when or where. Even from prison in Rome when he writes to the Christians gathered in the city of Ephesus (Acts 25:11; 28:30 [along with the letters of Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon]).
It is relatively brief, but really beautiful. We don’t want to overlook the meaning, but look over the message. And when we do, Paul’s encouragement is easy (Eph 1:6,12,14).
Praise God for his Glorious Grace
1. You are selected by the Father (3-6)
2. You are saved through the Son (7-13)
3. You are sealed with the Spirit (13,14)
1. You are selected by the Father (3-6)
This morning we confessed: “I believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty” (CW p. 31). The Father is the first person of the Trinity. Paul has us think about that. Praise God for his glorious grace. You are selected by the Father.
God certainly is worthy of words which call him good: “Praise be to [or “blessed be”] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Eph 1:3). Why? “Who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ” (Eph 1:3). There is nothing missing or lacking—whatever fits into the category of a blessing—every sort of and every kind of. That all comes from heaven and culminates in heaven (Ja 1:17). And all through Christ. Without him we have nothing. With him we have everything. And we do. (More on that, or better—more on him in a minute.)
Consider what the Father has done: “For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight” (Eph 1:4). Let that sink in. He picked us. And it wasn’t a notion that he threw together at the last moment—on a wish or a whim. Before he laid the foundation of the universe. Long before we were even born. And it was not like Tuesday’s All-Star Game. Those representatives from the National League and the American League are the best of the best in baseball. (I didn’t even get one vote, if you are curious.) They have a high batting average or on-base percentage. They can hit home runs and field fly balls. No. It wasn’t who we would be or what we would do. But who Jesus was and what he would do. It is based entirely on the mercy of God and totally on the merits of Christ. Praise God for his glorious grace.
And there was a purpose behind it: “to be holy and blameless in his sight” (Eph 1:4). Not because we were holy and blameless—we weren’t, but to be …
“holy” (Eph 1:4)—free from sin and far from it. That makes us “saints” (Eph 1:2).
“blameless” (Eph 1:4)—without fault or blemish (Eph 5:27).
That is how we stand in front of him. Our conscience can make accusations. The devil can make allegations. But God elected us to be holy and blameless. Praise God for his glorious grace.
The Father acted in our best interest. He had to and did. “In love he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will” (Eph 1:4,5). Once outside of his family, now inside. God puts us there—sons and daughters with the full rights and privileges that come from the Father (Ga 3:26,27; 1 Jn 3:1). All because he wanted to, not forced to. It was exciting to him and executed by him. “To the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves” (Eph 1:6). Look around to see your spiritual siblings. The Father was well pleased with his Son (Mt 3:17). With us too. That undeserved kindness God gives to us. Praise God for his glorious grace. You are selected by the Father to be his own from eternity.
2. You are saved through the Son (7-13)
And then we continued: “I believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God” (CW p. 31). The Son is the second person of the Trinity. Paul has us think through that. Praise God for his glorious grace. You are saved by the Christ.
Paul’s pen now points to the One who makes everything possible—our Lord Jesus Christ (Eph 1:3). “In him we have …” (Eph 1:7)
“redemption through his blood” (Eph 1:7). To “redeem” is to set free through the payment of a price. We might use the illustration of the ransom for the release of a prisoner of war. And it came at a high and heavy cost (1 Co 6:20)—not money from a bank, but blood from Jesus’ body (1 Pe 1:18,19). He suffered on the cross and died in our place. Praise God for his glorious grace.
“the forgiveness of sins” (Eph 1:7). That has the idea of sending off or sending away—like canceling a debt or an obligation. Gone. All the times that we have stepped to the side like a gymnast falling off the balance beam. But that didn’t result in a deduction, but damnation. “As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us” (Ps 103:12). Praise God for his glorious grace.
Speaking that Paul highlights that: “in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding” (Eph 1:7,8). There is not just a bit of grace—like the drip of a leaky faucet splashing in the sink, but a bunch of it—like cold water running over the sides of a glass. We wouldn’t complain about that on a hot and humid day. But not an advisory about the heat, but the admittance into heaven. God knew what had to be done and acted on that. We have that knowledge and appreciation.
But we would have never come up with any of this. Again, God took care of that. “And he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ” (Eph 1:9). It is not as if we could sniff out some clues to figure it out. A “mystery” is something that God has to reveal to us like when someone hands you a present. You have to open it to know what is inside. God explains that his desire is to save us in Christ. And he has. Praise God for his glorious grace.
And God has a goal—“to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment—to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, even Christ” (Eph 1:10). Jesus is above all and over all. At the right moment, he came into the world to take care of our sin and shame (Ga 4:4). And again, this wasn’t a haphazard happenstance—nothing accidental: “In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will in order that we, who were the first to hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory” (Eph 1:11,12). Everything occurs just as God had determined—from the promise to Adam and Eve of a Savior for them to the guarantee to Abraham of a Savior from him. And God is faithful. He carried it out. Jesus finished it (Jn 19:30). Praise God for his glorious grace.
And not just for Jews, but for Gentiles. For us too. “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation” (Eph 1:13). We are in Christ. We see that in God’s true Word (Jn 17:17). That fact that he has saved us—rescued us from an impossible situation—is good news. It might be similar to the happy story that took place this week in Thailand. There was no way that the soccer coach and his 12 players were going to get out of that cave by themselves. The 17 days that they were trapped in that cave are proof of that. Plus the expert divers sent in after them. They needed someone to save them. And so did we. That is why the Lord sent his prophet Amos: “Go, prophesy to my people Israel” (Amos 7:15). And that is why Jesus sent the 12 “two by two” (Mk 6:7). It was so that the people would see their sin and their Savior (Mk 7:12). That is the responsibility of fathers to children, generation after generation. The upshot of that is: “Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands” (Ps 78:7). Praise God for his glorious grace. You are saved through the Son, Jesus Christ, to be his own to eternity.
3. You are sealed with the Spirit (13,14)
And finally we concluded: “I believe in the Holy Spirit” (CW p. 31). The Spirit is the third person of the Trinity. Paul has us think over that. Praise God for his glorious grace. You are sealed by the Spirit.
It was the Holy Spirit who created faith in our hearts by calling us to faith with the Word. That gives us a present blessing: “Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit” (Eph 1:13). In Paul’s day, a letter would be rolled up and closed with wax. A person would push a ring on the hot material signifying that the contents were genuine. But a seal also was an indicator of ownership. We belong to God. The Holy Spirit comes and makes that clear (Acts 2:33; 2 Co 1:21,22). He does it as he dwells in our hearts.
But there is more—a future blessing. “[The Holy Spirit] is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory” (Eph 1:14). That is a technical term like our down payment. When you purchase a new/used black vehicle, you hand over a certain amount and pledge that the rest will follow—every month for 72 of them, for example. By granting the Holy Spirit, more is on the way. That is when Jesus will come again to take us to his side in heaven (Lk 21:28). That is when we will receive our full inheritance (Mt 25:34). Praise God for his glorious grace. You are sealed by the Spirit to be his own for eternity.
I am not sure of the rule of thumb for how many times you read a postcard or textbook before it makes its way into the recycle bin. More than one time. Is that fair? It is with Paul’s introduction to the Ephesians. And when we do it leads us to praise him. Praise God for his glorious grace. You were selected by the Father, saved through the Son, and sealed with the Spirit. To him be the glory both now and forever. Amen.
Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love (Eph 6:24). Amen.
July 15, 2018
St. John Lutheran Church Sermons
Monday, July 16, 2018
Monday, July 9, 2018
The Seventh Sunday after Pentecost (Ezekiel 2:1-5)
Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ (2 Co 1:2). Amen.
Both words are important and instructive—“public ministry.”
The adjective—public: It is in the sense of “on behalf of” and “in the name of.”
The noun—ministry: It signifies service.
That describes those who go out from God and for God—a service on behalf of and in the name of a group of individuals. It is not on their own or by themselves. There is a call. And God is behind the message and the messenger.
We celebrate it with pastors, for example. And we see it with prophets—like Ezekiel. The Sovereign Lord sends his spokesmen—speaking to them and speaking through them. We read from …
Ezekiel 2:1-5
Dear People of God who proclaims his Word through his workers,
There are plenty of prophets in the Bible—both in the Old Testament and the New (He 1:1). You don’t have to think very hard to come up with a name or two. Often the book bears their name—Jeremiah or Daniel, Joel or Obadiah. There are others too like Elijah and Elisha who were significant in Israel’s history.
But what is a prophet? We often think of someone who tells the future. But there is more to it. My definition is “one who speaks God’s Word to God’s people.” A spokesman. God calls them and communicates through them. It is his initiative and idea.
The Sovereign LORD Sends His Spokesmen
1. Speaking to them (1,2)
2. Speaking through them (3-5)
1. Speaking to them (1,2)
“Who said so?” That plays out all the time—between siblings and coworkers. It is not just what is said—“time to eat supper” or “time to get busy,” but who said it—a parent or a boss. If one is going to represent another correctly, he has to listen to him carefully so that the statement is clear. The Sovereign Lord sends his spokesmen—speaking to them.
That is what happened with Ezekiel. He had been in Babylon for a few years when the Lord came calling. That is because King Nebuchadnezzar had destroyed Jerusalem and deported many far from their homeland. But God had not forgotten them. He had something to convey to his people. That was the job of his prophet Ezekiel.
Before sending him, God speaks to him. And he appears in an impressive way—a marvelous vision. Ezekiel observed four living creatures. Each had four faces—the face of a man, lion, ox, and eagle. Above them in a vast expanse was a fiery-looking throne on which was seated “a figure like that of a man” (Eze 1:26). Ezekiel did what we would do—a face plant. (And not like when we fall off of our bike or trip on the sidewalk.) But his nose was on the ground before the glory of the Lord (Eze 1:28).
But that is not really conducive to conversing. You might contend the same: “Look at me when I am talking to you.” “He said to me, ‘Son of man, stand up on your feet and I will speak to you’” (Eze 2:1). The Lord addresses him that way frequently throughout the 48 chapters in our Bibles (93 times!). He is calling to mind the fact that Ezekiel is a man and he is God. That is obvious. But there is a big difference between Ezekiel’s sinful humanity and God’s striking holiness. But Ezekiel was to be attentive like a soldier snapping to attention before his superior—ready to receive his orders.
Ezekiel got some much-needed help. This was too important to miss. [Slide 10] “As he spoke, the Spirit came into me and raised me to my feet, and I heard him speaking to me” (Eze 2:2). It is interesting that the name “Ezekiel” means “God strengthens.” He was doing just that.
That is an important reminder for God’s spokesmen—both for the one who serves and the ones served. There is no room for pride in the ministry—in one’s wisdom or wit, smarts or savvy. No individual is the Savior. There is only One who is in that category—Jesus. A spokesman is feeble and frail. And he has to be fair. Like the author of a psalm, he asks: “If you, O LORD, kept a record of sins, O Lord, who could stand?” (Ps 130:3). What if God did as good of a job as doctors do with their charts? And he answers—“who can stand?”: no one. Or as we chanted earlier: “Do not bring your servant into judgment, for no one living is righteous before you” (Ps 143:2). Again, no one.
But the Sovereign Lord stands his messengers on their feet and supports them with a message of the sending away of sin (Ps 130:4). First for them. It is not because of their charisma, but of God’s character. He is merciful. Every day. The psalmist also captured that thought: “Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love” (Ps 143:8). It is morning. And those mercies are new every morning (La 3:22).
The spokesman of God goes forward with that—comforted and courageous. The apostle Paul highlighted that. Whatever his “thorn in [his] flesh” was (he is not specific), it was painful (2 Co 12:7). But it caused him to look to the Lord and lean on him. He heard God’s promise: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Co 12:9). So Paul could not keep silent: “For when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Co 12:10). The Sovereign Lord sends his spokesmen—prophets, Paul, pastors—speaking to them a word of pardon for them. They preach God’s grace to themselves first.
2. Speaking through them (3-5)
“Who said so?” Once a brother or colleague understands the authority behind the call to the dinner table or the concern about the work ethic, there might be a willingness to act. God endorses his prophets and then encourages them to go. The Sovereign Lord sends his spokesmen speaking through them.
Ezekiel’s efforts were not going to be easy. That is quite a way to begin. That would be like a coach starting his pregame speech with: “Tonight’s starting pitcher hasn’t given up a hit in 14 years, but let’s step in the batter’s box and swing away.” What? “Son of man [The second time that God labels him that.], I am sending you to the Israelites” (Eze 2:3). Ezekiel was going on an official mission and for an important purpose. But consider the audience:
“a rebellious nation that has rebelled against me” (Eze 2:3). There was ongoing resistance to God’s authority. This is not the stereotypical teenager who won’t obey because he knows better. Not only had they failed to keep the law, there was also the worship of other gods. So much for the covenant with God. That is why the Lord was disciplining them in their new home in a foreign country—a judgment on their sin.
“they and their fathers have been in revolt against me to this very day” (Eze 2:3). It was a generational problem—a learned behavior. They had broken the relationship with the Lord with open defiance. It is not just a matter of “why?,” but “why not.”
Do you think that Ezekiel was raising his hand for the assignment? “I am more than happy to sign up for that.” No one asks for the nasty chores around the house. (I will let you use your imagination.)
And then there is more (as if that wasn’t enough). Imagine pushing a standup comedian on stage with: “They are cranky and crabby. They have raw vegetables and ripe fruit with good arms and great aim.
“The people to whom I am sending you are obstinate” (Eze 2:4). Really, “hard of face.” They were shameless almost as if they stood with arms crossed.
“and stubborn” (Eze 2:4). Literally, “hard-hearted.” Like a rock, they weren’t going to change.
And yet God wanted them back. So he sent his spokesman—speaking through him. It had nothing to do with Ezekiel’s whims or wishes. “Say to them, ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says’” (Eze 2:4). “So declares the One who is the Master of all who is serious about his threats as his guarantees.” He would mention their guilt before God but also the Messiah from God.
The reactions would be one of two—neither of which Ezekiel could control: “whether they listen or fail to listen—for they are a rebellious house” (one more description of their disobedience) (Eze 2:5). They could open their ears in acceptance and recognition or close their hearts in reluctance and opposition. They might take note; they might not. That wasn’t Ezekiel’s business. But there was this reality: “They will know that a prophet has been among them” (Eze 2:5). They would have that personal experience without a probable excuse.
That is how it was in Nazareth when Jesus came to town, teaching in the synagogue. They couldn’t get past their familiarity with Jesus’ family. And the sad report: “And they took offense at him” (Mk 6:3). They stumbled into the deathtrap of unbelief with the notion, “It’s just Jesus. No big deal.” There were some who did believe in him and bring their sick to him. But in general, many, if not most, snubbed him.
The results are still the same: People can reject or refuse God’s spokesman because he has flaws or faults. They might not like what he asserts—whether it comes to the gift of marriage or the use of the tongue. But “This is what the Sovereign LORD says” (Eze 2:4). Or one can rejoice because God’s representative brings forgiveness and freedom. They might love what he affirms. “This is what the Sovereign LORD says” (Eze 2:4). Jesus’ empty cross cancels guilt and open tomb confirms life. God’s Word has that power and purpose to give life (Ro 1:16; Is 55:10,11). The Sovereign Lord sends his spokesmen—speaking through them second.
It was almost 7 years to the day that you called me to be your pastor. It was not directly from God, but directed by God. That has always been the case with prophets—known or unknown, from Amos to Agabus (Amos 7:15; Acts 11:28). They are mouthpieces—those who speak God’s Word to God’s people. The Sovereign Lord sends his spokesmen for public ministry—service on behalf of and in the name of a congregation. But as he dispatches, he does it speaking to his spokesman—cleansing him from sin. And then God speaks through his spokesman—calling to the Savior. Such a one hears for himself and is helpful for you. Together we turn to and trust in the Sovereign Lord. Amen.
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all (2 Co 13:14). Amen.
July 8, 2018
Both words are important and instructive—“public ministry.”
The adjective—public: It is in the sense of “on behalf of” and “in the name of.”
The noun—ministry: It signifies service.
That describes those who go out from God and for God—a service on behalf of and in the name of a group of individuals. It is not on their own or by themselves. There is a call. And God is behind the message and the messenger.
We celebrate it with pastors, for example. And we see it with prophets—like Ezekiel. The Sovereign Lord sends his spokesmen—speaking to them and speaking through them. We read from …
Ezekiel 2:1-5
Dear People of God who proclaims his Word through his workers,
There are plenty of prophets in the Bible—both in the Old Testament and the New (He 1:1). You don’t have to think very hard to come up with a name or two. Often the book bears their name—Jeremiah or Daniel, Joel or Obadiah. There are others too like Elijah and Elisha who were significant in Israel’s history.
But what is a prophet? We often think of someone who tells the future. But there is more to it. My definition is “one who speaks God’s Word to God’s people.” A spokesman. God calls them and communicates through them. It is his initiative and idea.
The Sovereign LORD Sends His Spokesmen
1. Speaking to them (1,2)
2. Speaking through them (3-5)
1. Speaking to them (1,2)
“Who said so?” That plays out all the time—between siblings and coworkers. It is not just what is said—“time to eat supper” or “time to get busy,” but who said it—a parent or a boss. If one is going to represent another correctly, he has to listen to him carefully so that the statement is clear. The Sovereign Lord sends his spokesmen—speaking to them.
That is what happened with Ezekiel. He had been in Babylon for a few years when the Lord came calling. That is because King Nebuchadnezzar had destroyed Jerusalem and deported many far from their homeland. But God had not forgotten them. He had something to convey to his people. That was the job of his prophet Ezekiel.
Before sending him, God speaks to him. And he appears in an impressive way—a marvelous vision. Ezekiel observed four living creatures. Each had four faces—the face of a man, lion, ox, and eagle. Above them in a vast expanse was a fiery-looking throne on which was seated “a figure like that of a man” (Eze 1:26). Ezekiel did what we would do—a face plant. (And not like when we fall off of our bike or trip on the sidewalk.) But his nose was on the ground before the glory of the Lord (Eze 1:28).
But that is not really conducive to conversing. You might contend the same: “Look at me when I am talking to you.” “He said to me, ‘Son of man, stand up on your feet and I will speak to you’” (Eze 2:1). The Lord addresses him that way frequently throughout the 48 chapters in our Bibles (93 times!). He is calling to mind the fact that Ezekiel is a man and he is God. That is obvious. But there is a big difference between Ezekiel’s sinful humanity and God’s striking holiness. But Ezekiel was to be attentive like a soldier snapping to attention before his superior—ready to receive his orders.
Ezekiel got some much-needed help. This was too important to miss. [Slide 10] “As he spoke, the Spirit came into me and raised me to my feet, and I heard him speaking to me” (Eze 2:2). It is interesting that the name “Ezekiel” means “God strengthens.” He was doing just that.
That is an important reminder for God’s spokesmen—both for the one who serves and the ones served. There is no room for pride in the ministry—in one’s wisdom or wit, smarts or savvy. No individual is the Savior. There is only One who is in that category—Jesus. A spokesman is feeble and frail. And he has to be fair. Like the author of a psalm, he asks: “If you, O LORD, kept a record of sins, O Lord, who could stand?” (Ps 130:3). What if God did as good of a job as doctors do with their charts? And he answers—“who can stand?”: no one. Or as we chanted earlier: “Do not bring your servant into judgment, for no one living is righteous before you” (Ps 143:2). Again, no one.
But the Sovereign Lord stands his messengers on their feet and supports them with a message of the sending away of sin (Ps 130:4). First for them. It is not because of their charisma, but of God’s character. He is merciful. Every day. The psalmist also captured that thought: “Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love” (Ps 143:8). It is morning. And those mercies are new every morning (La 3:22).
The spokesman of God goes forward with that—comforted and courageous. The apostle Paul highlighted that. Whatever his “thorn in [his] flesh” was (he is not specific), it was painful (2 Co 12:7). But it caused him to look to the Lord and lean on him. He heard God’s promise: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Co 12:9). So Paul could not keep silent: “For when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Co 12:10). The Sovereign Lord sends his spokesmen—prophets, Paul, pastors—speaking to them a word of pardon for them. They preach God’s grace to themselves first.
2. Speaking through them (3-5)
“Who said so?” Once a brother or colleague understands the authority behind the call to the dinner table or the concern about the work ethic, there might be a willingness to act. God endorses his prophets and then encourages them to go. The Sovereign Lord sends his spokesmen speaking through them.
Ezekiel’s efforts were not going to be easy. That is quite a way to begin. That would be like a coach starting his pregame speech with: “Tonight’s starting pitcher hasn’t given up a hit in 14 years, but let’s step in the batter’s box and swing away.” What? “Son of man [The second time that God labels him that.], I am sending you to the Israelites” (Eze 2:3). Ezekiel was going on an official mission and for an important purpose. But consider the audience:
“a rebellious nation that has rebelled against me” (Eze 2:3). There was ongoing resistance to God’s authority. This is not the stereotypical teenager who won’t obey because he knows better. Not only had they failed to keep the law, there was also the worship of other gods. So much for the covenant with God. That is why the Lord was disciplining them in their new home in a foreign country—a judgment on their sin.
“they and their fathers have been in revolt against me to this very day” (Eze 2:3). It was a generational problem—a learned behavior. They had broken the relationship with the Lord with open defiance. It is not just a matter of “why?,” but “why not.”
Do you think that Ezekiel was raising his hand for the assignment? “I am more than happy to sign up for that.” No one asks for the nasty chores around the house. (I will let you use your imagination.)
And then there is more (as if that wasn’t enough). Imagine pushing a standup comedian on stage with: “They are cranky and crabby. They have raw vegetables and ripe fruit with good arms and great aim.
“The people to whom I am sending you are obstinate” (Eze 2:4). Really, “hard of face.” They were shameless almost as if they stood with arms crossed.
“and stubborn” (Eze 2:4). Literally, “hard-hearted.” Like a rock, they weren’t going to change.
And yet God wanted them back. So he sent his spokesman—speaking through him. It had nothing to do with Ezekiel’s whims or wishes. “Say to them, ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says’” (Eze 2:4). “So declares the One who is the Master of all who is serious about his threats as his guarantees.” He would mention their guilt before God but also the Messiah from God.
The reactions would be one of two—neither of which Ezekiel could control: “whether they listen or fail to listen—for they are a rebellious house” (one more description of their disobedience) (Eze 2:5). They could open their ears in acceptance and recognition or close their hearts in reluctance and opposition. They might take note; they might not. That wasn’t Ezekiel’s business. But there was this reality: “They will know that a prophet has been among them” (Eze 2:5). They would have that personal experience without a probable excuse.
That is how it was in Nazareth when Jesus came to town, teaching in the synagogue. They couldn’t get past their familiarity with Jesus’ family. And the sad report: “And they took offense at him” (Mk 6:3). They stumbled into the deathtrap of unbelief with the notion, “It’s just Jesus. No big deal.” There were some who did believe in him and bring their sick to him. But in general, many, if not most, snubbed him.
The results are still the same: People can reject or refuse God’s spokesman because he has flaws or faults. They might not like what he asserts—whether it comes to the gift of marriage or the use of the tongue. But “This is what the Sovereign LORD says” (Eze 2:4). Or one can rejoice because God’s representative brings forgiveness and freedom. They might love what he affirms. “This is what the Sovereign LORD says” (Eze 2:4). Jesus’ empty cross cancels guilt and open tomb confirms life. God’s Word has that power and purpose to give life (Ro 1:16; Is 55:10,11). The Sovereign Lord sends his spokesmen—speaking through them second.
It was almost 7 years to the day that you called me to be your pastor. It was not directly from God, but directed by God. That has always been the case with prophets—known or unknown, from Amos to Agabus (Amos 7:15; Acts 11:28). They are mouthpieces—those who speak God’s Word to God’s people. The Sovereign Lord sends his spokesmen for public ministry—service on behalf of and in the name of a congregation. But as he dispatches, he does it speaking to his spokesman—cleansing him from sin. And then God speaks through his spokesman—calling to the Savior. Such a one hears for himself and is helpful for you. Together we turn to and trust in the Sovereign Lord. Amen.
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all (2 Co 13:14). Amen.
July 8, 2018
Monday, July 2, 2018
The Sixth Sunday after Pentecost (Lamentations 3:22-33)
Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ (2 Co 1:2). Amen.
Do you know of anyone who is actually good at waiting? It is an issue for any and every age group—from young to old. And it can be big things or little things. Or hard things or happy things.
There is the anticipation of an approaching doctor’s visit. (And even if you have the first appointment of the day, you still have to do your time in a separate room before seeing the physician. Good thing everyone has their mobile devices.) And afterward, you wait for the results of the biopsy.
There is the excitement of an upcoming baseball game. Why is every light red on the way there? Even the backseat driver calls attention to and makes mention of the crimson color.
There are lines at restaurants for favorite foods and there are empty tables. You are hungry. You want to dig in.
There are delays at checkouts when buying clothes and there are open registers. You are in a hurry. You want to dress up.
Waiting is not something that we like to do, but we have to do. It is hardly fun. It is often frustrating. Even if we start off with some patience, it turns into impatience. How much longer?
It is that way in life. It can be so with the Lord. But wait in confident hope because the Lord’s compassion is new every morning and because the Lord’s concern is near every moment. We read from …
Lamentations 3:22-33
Dear People of God whose heart is on us and whose help is for us,
Google doesn’t make you wait long. Type is a word or phrase in the box on your phone or computer with just about anything—song titles to sports figures—and there are hundreds of websites to consult and confer. In what? 2 or 3 seconds? And yet we say, “I hope that one might be of some assistance.” There is a bit of uncertainty.
And then there is God. There are those times when our immense expectation for instant gratification is tried and tested. We state, “I hope that God will do something.” And yet at times we are unsure.
We need to review how the Bible uses the word “hope.” There is not ever a hint of hesitation. It is not something doubtful, but definite. That is why we add an adjective as a reminder. It is almost redundant.
Wait in Confident Hope
1. Because the Lord’s compassion is new every morning (22-26)
2. Because the Lord’s concern is near every moment (27-33)
1. Because the Lord’s compassion is new every morning (22-26)
“Good morning” is a pretty simple greeting. We share it with those at home, at work, at church. But what do we mean? Is it a desire: “I would like you to have a good morning.”? Or is a declaration: “It is a good morning.”? It can be that second idea. Wait in confident hope because the Lord’s compassion is new every morning.
The golden age for Israel was gone. Thanks to Nebuchadnezzar and his army from Babylon. They had come down and carted off the best and the brightest. And in their wake, the destruction was staggering because the walls were broken down. The devastation was shocking because the temple was burnt down. It would similar if Washington D.C. was wiped from the map.
It is not surprising that the first words of the book are: “How deserted lies the city, once so full of people” (La 1:1). The survivors could tell of horrors that only soldiers who have seen combat could sympathize—from the carnage to the cruelty. All that was left was the charred ruins of a changed landscape. Why? They had refused the repeated warnings from God’s prophets to repent. Jerusalem had sinned greatly (La 1:8).
That context is critical. Because with that background, there is the bright spot. In the midst of the ruins and rubble in the middle of the book and brokenness, the author writes (probably Jeremiah—we will go with that assumption): “Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail” (La 3:22). [That is the way it works with Hebrew poetry. The good stuff is in the center. I have compared it to a hamburger. The bun is nice, but the meat is the main thing. (By the way, medium well, too. You can have your pink. I like it cooked.) We are used to the important point placed at the end in English compositions.] In spite of the damage to the Holy City, there was still a holy God who is the Lord—changeless in his care and compassion, his forgiveness and firmness (Ex 3:14; 34:6,7). And so again …
“Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed” (La 3:22). He is full of mercy and is merciful—seeing what is needed and supplying what is necessary. And that never gets used up like gas in a car. No matter how many times we make the trip to Jesus’ cross, we walk away with all our guilt removed. It is all because of him and not us.
“for his compassions never fail” (La 3:22). The Lord’s bond with his people is closer than a mother and her child—or a father for that matter. His deep favor does not come to an end like a summer trip or a day off. Calmly and coolly we can contend, “I am a child of God.”
A short review of Israel’s past makes that point. God had chosen them out of all the nations on earth to be the cradle of the Savior. He rescued them out of the slavery of Egypt to keep that promise alive, the promise made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He had resettled them in Canaan after 40 years of wandering in the desert. And now. What about now? That great love and his compassions were still there. With those far away and those close by.
In fact, “They [the Lord’s mercies and compassions] are new every morning; great is your faithfulness” (La 3:23). Every breath of air, every sip of water, every crust of bread, and every stitch of clothing were all evidences of that. (And we have so much more than that—full pantries and closets and garages!) All because the Lord is reliable and dependable. As they opened their eyes to another day, that was all there, still there.
As we begin a fresh day, that is all ours too. In place of complaints, we have the Lord’s compassion. He has not given up on us. Nor will he. Ever. Each one of us can join in: “I say to myself, ‘The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for him’” (La 3:24). We are his. And he is ours—like an inheritance. And that is guaranteed (cf. Ps 73:26). And the wait is not out of uneasiness, but eagerness like for fireworks on the 4th of July. There is conviction. “The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him” (La 3:25). There is silence. “It is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD” (La 3:26). He would bring them back to their homeland one day so the Messiah could be born at the proper time (Ga 4:4).
That is how we can be so positive that the Lord is attentive to us. We see that in what he did to rescue us from sin. The apostle Paul pointed that out: “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich” (2 Co 8:9). Jesus gave up the magnificence of heaven so that we could have a mansion in heaven. We are rich on earth—freedom from sin, but also in eternity—a place with him. Wait in confident hope because the Lord’s compassions are new every morning. That was true yesterday. It is the case today.
2. Because the Lord’s concern is near every moment (27-33)
There are those occasions when it is a salutation: “Good morning,” It can lose its significance and become worthless because of its repetitiveness. But it can be an observation: “It is a good morning.” But we are more ready to assert that when things are going well—when there are happiness and health, not wrong—when there are tears and fears. But in either situation or circumstance, wait in confident hope because the Lord’s concern is near every moment.
Perhaps we forget the title of this section of Scripture—Lamentations. A “lament” is an expression of sorrow or sadness. There can be weeping and crying. The Lord’s spokesmen did not live in ivory towers, but with intense troubles. Like us. They were real people with real problems. That can tear down confident hope. Wait for the Lord? We find it easier to whine to the Lord.
But there is always good. And that is more than a generic word—“good.” It is “beneficial.” Jeremiah jots this down: “It is good for a man to bear the yoke while he is young” (La 3:27). A yoke is that wooden device put on beasts of burden to plow fields or pull loads. But he is referring to a figurative one. It is helpful to learn to deal with tough issues at a tender age for later on. Think of it along the lines of parenting. No mommy or daddy likes to watch their little one carry something heavy like a disappointment of a strikeout. They want to step up and step in. But umps don’t like to change their calls of balls and strikes—even if the ball is outside or inside. But if their little ones don’t deal with distress until they are 47, it will be more difficult.
We have gone and will go through challenging stretches—with our family or finance. But through them the Lord develops endurance and perseverance. And ultimately hope (Ro 5:3-5)—confident hope in the Lord who is in complete control at all times.
And Jeremiah goes on: “Let him sit alone in silence, for the LORD has laid it on him” (La 3:28). It is the LORD—note the name, the God of grace—who allows it at times. And he always has a useful purpose. A teacher may permit a student to struggle with a math problem for that one to learn or to turn to him for help.
So we can proceed forward with the Lord. And without grumbling or groaning. “Let him bury his face in the dust—there may yet be hope” (La 3:29). There is humility. You can’t utter too much when your mouth is in the ground. “Let him offer his cheek to one who would strike him, and let him be filled with disgrace” (La 3:30). There will at times be insults. It could be from those who ruin and wreak your reputation, not recognizing or realizing all that you do for them. How? Or better, why? “For men are not cast off by the Lord forever” (La 3:31). God is the Master of all. He does not disapprove of us, but delights in us. He directs our lives accordingly and also appropriately.
And what is more: “Though he brings grief, he will show compassion, so great is his unfailing love” (La 3:32). Even in anxiety, there is assurance. He cares for us (1 Pe 5:7). It will always be for our eternal good. That is all things that confront us or come against us (Ro 8:28). The Lord gets no sick, twisted pleasure to watch us suffer. “For he does not willingly bring affliction or grief to the children of men” (La 3:33). His eyes are on us and his heart is open to us.
It is often when life is at its worst that we have opportunity to witness God at his best. You can see Independence Day pyrotechnics better at 10:00 PM than 10:00 AM (even though some around this neighborhood would challenge that theory—and repeatedly over the last few weeks. There no such thing as a bad time for a bottle rocket.).
Note how Jesus did that with Jairus. His 12-year-old daughter was declining. And fast. So when it was dire, he darted to Jesus. But then the unthinkable happened. Death. Despite what those from Jaiurs’ house advised, Jesus announced: “Don’t be afraid; just believe” (Mk 5:36). He had the ability to heal. And he demonstrated his power over death by taking her by the hand and telling her: “Talitha koum!” (which means, ‘Little girl, I say to you, get up!’)” (Mk 5:41). That same authority he displayed by exiting his tomb after three days. We can only imagine the joy of that little girl’s mom and dad. The same that we feel when we recall that death will touch us and our loved ones, but it will not triumph over us. Because Jesus lives, we live (Jn 14:19).
The psalmist captures the thought when he has us sing: “Weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning” (Ps 30:5). It can be that quick. Even if the issue is chronic and we don’t get it, God has got it. The Lord will supply strength for it and support in it. Wait in confident hope because the Lord’s concern is near every moment.
We may not be an expert at waiting, but we can learn to excel. You can google ways to improve or increase your stamina. Or you can look to and lean on the Lord. Wait in confident hope because the Lord’s compassion is new every morning and his concern is near every moment. Today is another example of that. There is no doubt about it. Amen.
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all (2 Co 13:14). Amen.
July 1, 2018
Do you know of anyone who is actually good at waiting? It is an issue for any and every age group—from young to old. And it can be big things or little things. Or hard things or happy things.
There is the anticipation of an approaching doctor’s visit. (And even if you have the first appointment of the day, you still have to do your time in a separate room before seeing the physician. Good thing everyone has their mobile devices.) And afterward, you wait for the results of the biopsy.
There is the excitement of an upcoming baseball game. Why is every light red on the way there? Even the backseat driver calls attention to and makes mention of the crimson color.
There are lines at restaurants for favorite foods and there are empty tables. You are hungry. You want to dig in.
There are delays at checkouts when buying clothes and there are open registers. You are in a hurry. You want to dress up.
Waiting is not something that we like to do, but we have to do. It is hardly fun. It is often frustrating. Even if we start off with some patience, it turns into impatience. How much longer?
It is that way in life. It can be so with the Lord. But wait in confident hope because the Lord’s compassion is new every morning and because the Lord’s concern is near every moment. We read from …
Lamentations 3:22-33
Dear People of God whose heart is on us and whose help is for us,
Google doesn’t make you wait long. Type is a word or phrase in the box on your phone or computer with just about anything—song titles to sports figures—and there are hundreds of websites to consult and confer. In what? 2 or 3 seconds? And yet we say, “I hope that one might be of some assistance.” There is a bit of uncertainty.
And then there is God. There are those times when our immense expectation for instant gratification is tried and tested. We state, “I hope that God will do something.” And yet at times we are unsure.
We need to review how the Bible uses the word “hope.” There is not ever a hint of hesitation. It is not something doubtful, but definite. That is why we add an adjective as a reminder. It is almost redundant.
Wait in Confident Hope
1. Because the Lord’s compassion is new every morning (22-26)
2. Because the Lord’s concern is near every moment (27-33)
1. Because the Lord’s compassion is new every morning (22-26)
“Good morning” is a pretty simple greeting. We share it with those at home, at work, at church. But what do we mean? Is it a desire: “I would like you to have a good morning.”? Or is a declaration: “It is a good morning.”? It can be that second idea. Wait in confident hope because the Lord’s compassion is new every morning.
The golden age for Israel was gone. Thanks to Nebuchadnezzar and his army from Babylon. They had come down and carted off the best and the brightest. And in their wake, the destruction was staggering because the walls were broken down. The devastation was shocking because the temple was burnt down. It would similar if Washington D.C. was wiped from the map.
It is not surprising that the first words of the book are: “How deserted lies the city, once so full of people” (La 1:1). The survivors could tell of horrors that only soldiers who have seen combat could sympathize—from the carnage to the cruelty. All that was left was the charred ruins of a changed landscape. Why? They had refused the repeated warnings from God’s prophets to repent. Jerusalem had sinned greatly (La 1:8).
That context is critical. Because with that background, there is the bright spot. In the midst of the ruins and rubble in the middle of the book and brokenness, the author writes (probably Jeremiah—we will go with that assumption): “Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail” (La 3:22). [That is the way it works with Hebrew poetry. The good stuff is in the center. I have compared it to a hamburger. The bun is nice, but the meat is the main thing. (By the way, medium well, too. You can have your pink. I like it cooked.) We are used to the important point placed at the end in English compositions.] In spite of the damage to the Holy City, there was still a holy God who is the Lord—changeless in his care and compassion, his forgiveness and firmness (Ex 3:14; 34:6,7). And so again …
“Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed” (La 3:22). He is full of mercy and is merciful—seeing what is needed and supplying what is necessary. And that never gets used up like gas in a car. No matter how many times we make the trip to Jesus’ cross, we walk away with all our guilt removed. It is all because of him and not us.
“for his compassions never fail” (La 3:22). The Lord’s bond with his people is closer than a mother and her child—or a father for that matter. His deep favor does not come to an end like a summer trip or a day off. Calmly and coolly we can contend, “I am a child of God.”
A short review of Israel’s past makes that point. God had chosen them out of all the nations on earth to be the cradle of the Savior. He rescued them out of the slavery of Egypt to keep that promise alive, the promise made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He had resettled them in Canaan after 40 years of wandering in the desert. And now. What about now? That great love and his compassions were still there. With those far away and those close by.
In fact, “They [the Lord’s mercies and compassions] are new every morning; great is your faithfulness” (La 3:23). Every breath of air, every sip of water, every crust of bread, and every stitch of clothing were all evidences of that. (And we have so much more than that—full pantries and closets and garages!) All because the Lord is reliable and dependable. As they opened their eyes to another day, that was all there, still there.
As we begin a fresh day, that is all ours too. In place of complaints, we have the Lord’s compassion. He has not given up on us. Nor will he. Ever. Each one of us can join in: “I say to myself, ‘The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for him’” (La 3:24). We are his. And he is ours—like an inheritance. And that is guaranteed (cf. Ps 73:26). And the wait is not out of uneasiness, but eagerness like for fireworks on the 4th of July. There is conviction. “The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him” (La 3:25). There is silence. “It is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD” (La 3:26). He would bring them back to their homeland one day so the Messiah could be born at the proper time (Ga 4:4).
That is how we can be so positive that the Lord is attentive to us. We see that in what he did to rescue us from sin. The apostle Paul pointed that out: “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich” (2 Co 8:9). Jesus gave up the magnificence of heaven so that we could have a mansion in heaven. We are rich on earth—freedom from sin, but also in eternity—a place with him. Wait in confident hope because the Lord’s compassions are new every morning. That was true yesterday. It is the case today.
2. Because the Lord’s concern is near every moment (27-33)
There are those occasions when it is a salutation: “Good morning,” It can lose its significance and become worthless because of its repetitiveness. But it can be an observation: “It is a good morning.” But we are more ready to assert that when things are going well—when there are happiness and health, not wrong—when there are tears and fears. But in either situation or circumstance, wait in confident hope because the Lord’s concern is near every moment.
Perhaps we forget the title of this section of Scripture—Lamentations. A “lament” is an expression of sorrow or sadness. There can be weeping and crying. The Lord’s spokesmen did not live in ivory towers, but with intense troubles. Like us. They were real people with real problems. That can tear down confident hope. Wait for the Lord? We find it easier to whine to the Lord.
But there is always good. And that is more than a generic word—“good.” It is “beneficial.” Jeremiah jots this down: “It is good for a man to bear the yoke while he is young” (La 3:27). A yoke is that wooden device put on beasts of burden to plow fields or pull loads. But he is referring to a figurative one. It is helpful to learn to deal with tough issues at a tender age for later on. Think of it along the lines of parenting. No mommy or daddy likes to watch their little one carry something heavy like a disappointment of a strikeout. They want to step up and step in. But umps don’t like to change their calls of balls and strikes—even if the ball is outside or inside. But if their little ones don’t deal with distress until they are 47, it will be more difficult.
We have gone and will go through challenging stretches—with our family or finance. But through them the Lord develops endurance and perseverance. And ultimately hope (Ro 5:3-5)—confident hope in the Lord who is in complete control at all times.
And Jeremiah goes on: “Let him sit alone in silence, for the LORD has laid it on him” (La 3:28). It is the LORD—note the name, the God of grace—who allows it at times. And he always has a useful purpose. A teacher may permit a student to struggle with a math problem for that one to learn or to turn to him for help.
So we can proceed forward with the Lord. And without grumbling or groaning. “Let him bury his face in the dust—there may yet be hope” (La 3:29). There is humility. You can’t utter too much when your mouth is in the ground. “Let him offer his cheek to one who would strike him, and let him be filled with disgrace” (La 3:30). There will at times be insults. It could be from those who ruin and wreak your reputation, not recognizing or realizing all that you do for them. How? Or better, why? “For men are not cast off by the Lord forever” (La 3:31). God is the Master of all. He does not disapprove of us, but delights in us. He directs our lives accordingly and also appropriately.
And what is more: “Though he brings grief, he will show compassion, so great is his unfailing love” (La 3:32). Even in anxiety, there is assurance. He cares for us (1 Pe 5:7). It will always be for our eternal good. That is all things that confront us or come against us (Ro 8:28). The Lord gets no sick, twisted pleasure to watch us suffer. “For he does not willingly bring affliction or grief to the children of men” (La 3:33). His eyes are on us and his heart is open to us.
It is often when life is at its worst that we have opportunity to witness God at his best. You can see Independence Day pyrotechnics better at 10:00 PM than 10:00 AM (even though some around this neighborhood would challenge that theory—and repeatedly over the last few weeks. There no such thing as a bad time for a bottle rocket.).
Note how Jesus did that with Jairus. His 12-year-old daughter was declining. And fast. So when it was dire, he darted to Jesus. But then the unthinkable happened. Death. Despite what those from Jaiurs’ house advised, Jesus announced: “Don’t be afraid; just believe” (Mk 5:36). He had the ability to heal. And he demonstrated his power over death by taking her by the hand and telling her: “Talitha koum!” (which means, ‘Little girl, I say to you, get up!’)” (Mk 5:41). That same authority he displayed by exiting his tomb after three days. We can only imagine the joy of that little girl’s mom and dad. The same that we feel when we recall that death will touch us and our loved ones, but it will not triumph over us. Because Jesus lives, we live (Jn 14:19).
The psalmist captures the thought when he has us sing: “Weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning” (Ps 30:5). It can be that quick. Even if the issue is chronic and we don’t get it, God has got it. The Lord will supply strength for it and support in it. Wait in confident hope because the Lord’s concern is near every moment.
We may not be an expert at waiting, but we can learn to excel. You can google ways to improve or increase your stamina. Or you can look to and lean on the Lord. Wait in confident hope because the Lord’s compassion is new every morning and his concern is near every moment. Today is another example of that. There is no doubt about it. Amen.
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all (2 Co 13:14). Amen.
July 1, 2018
Sunday, June 24, 2018
The Fifth Sunday after Pentecost (Proverbs 30:4,5)
Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ (2 Co 1:2). Amen.
There is no shortage of questions from day to day. They come from different people depending on who is around us and in different places depending on where we are. It can be a simple, “How are you?” to a straightforward, “Who are you?”
Not that that is wrong. We need the facts. We want the answers. In fact, we are often encouraged to ask because there is no such thing as a question that is dumb. (That is not a challenge to come up with one.) A good question then deserves a good answer.
There are the standard questions words: who, what, why, when, where, and how. You determine or decide which one based on the situation or circumstance. A reporter will apply any or all of them to get the scoop on a breaking story for the nightly news.
The writer of a section of the book of Proverbs, his name is Agur (That is about as much as we know about him.), poses a series of 4 “who” questions:
“Who has gone up to heaven and come down?” (Pr 30:4).
“Who has gathered up the winds in the hollow of his hands?” (Pr 30:4).
“Who has wrapped up the waters in his cloak?” (Pr 30:4).
“Who has established all the ends of the earth?” (Pr 30:4).
Then he follows it up with 2 “what” questions:
“What is his name?” (Pr 30:4).
“and the name of his son?” (Pr 30:4).
Finally there is the challenge: “Tell me if you know!” (Pr 30:4). It is along the lines of “because you possess that information.” That is reminiscent of the instance when the Lord addressed Job. We recall Job. He was incredibly rich, but lost it all—wealth to family—in a day. His three so-called “friends” came to comfort him. Really to confront him. “Job, you must have done something really bad for this to have happened.” Job wanted to speak to God to assert his innocence.
The Lord did come. In a storm (Job 38:1). He bombarded Job with questions about the beginning of the universe. “Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation? Tell me, if you understand. Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know! Who stretched a measuring line across it? On what were its footings set, or who laid its cornerstone” (Job 38:4-6). God compares himself to an architect, a surveyor, and an engineer. He didn’t need Job’s help. He didn’t badger Job with that barrage to humiliate him, but to humble him. God is in charge. He knows what he is doing. He wanted Job to get rid of his pride and hold on to him in trust.
We recognize his greatness and goodness without having to give us an explanation as if he owes us one. He is above us. We realize our frailness and feebleness. We are below him. We stand in awe of him.
And we do know him. Because God himself has told us. We know his name—not only what designations we call him (Father, Messiah, Holy Spirit), but also everything that he has revealed to us about himself (kind and compassionate [Ex 34:6,7]). We know the name of his Son, Jesus (Ps 2:7).
But if we review those questions, it is more than just the standard, catechism answer “God,” even though that is right because they are not rhetorical.
Who has gone up to heaven and come down? (Pr 30:4). Yes, God. But there is more.
- Think of the occasion when the Lord came down to see the city and tower that the men of Babel were building, reaching up to the heavens (Ge 11:1-9). He doesn’t do anything in an arbitrary fashion. He can spot sin.
- Call to mind what Jesus once mentioned: “No one has ever gone into heaven except the one who came from heaven—the Son of Man” (Jn 3:13). God gave his Son to the world (Jn 3:16). The apostle Paul pointed out that God did it to reconcile us to himself (2 Co 5:18)—changing our relationship from one of hostility toward him to harmony with him. He stated how so succinctly “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Co 5:21). Jesus took on our sin so that he could put on his holiness. That is a great exchange. Jesus died in the place of and instead of all and was raised again (2 Co 5:14,15). We are now “a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Co 5:17).
Who has gathered up the winds in the hollow of his hands? (Pr 30:4). Yes, God. But there is more. There Jesus is asleep when that sudden squall came up on the Sea of Galilee. When his fearful disciples woke him up, he “rebuked the wind …, ‘Quiet!’” (Mk 4:39). And it was immediate. No more blowing in their face. The wind submitted to him. The breeze was nonexistent.
Who has wrapped up the waters in his cloak? (Pr 30:4). Yes, God. But there is more. From the back of the boat, Jesus also bellowed: “Be still!” (Mk 4:39). And it was instantaneous. No more beating against the ship. The waves surrendered to him. The lake was glassy smooth.
Who has established all the ends of the earth? (Pr 30:4). Yes, God. But there is more. “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth” (Ge 1:1). He did it with his almighty word. “Let there be” and there was. Jesus was there too (Jn 1:1). “Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that that has been made” (Jn 1:3). And now our “help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth” (Ps 121:2).
And when we revere God for who he is, we respect him for what he says (cf. First and Second Commandments). “Every word of God is flawless” (Pr 30:5). The content of what he communicates is perfect and pure—just like when gold is tested and refined. There are no longer any impurities or imperfections. What God relates is completely reliable and what God declares is totally dependable. It is absolutely true.
The proverb writer then makes a comparison: “He [that is, God] is a shield to those who take refuge in him” (Pr 30:5). He is like the small weapon that a soldier takes with him into battle to protect himself from attack. We go to our God because there we find safety and security. The tallest to the tiniest is helpless by himself, but helped by his Savior. When we turn to him, we can trust in him.
Consider that in the context of the disciples. These experienced fishermen thought that the unexpected gale would do them in (Mk 4:38). They run to the right person, but proceed with a rude inquiry: “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” (Mk 4:38). Of course he did. But that sounds like a child to his parent now that Mother’s Day was a month ago and Father’s Day was a week ago—especially when he doesn’t get his way: “Don’t you care?” How quickly the gratitude and gratefulness turn into criticism and critique. Those followers of Jesus called him “Teacher,” but they apparently didn’t take his teachings to heart.
We have been there. You don’t have to raise your hand. What goes through your mind when the “storms of life” hit. And not a gentle rain that is refreshing, but a hard downpour that is draining. “Jesus, this doesn’t seem to be a care to you. What is happening? Why is it happening?” It is almost as if we take God to court, to call him to account. What do we do with those questions? We need to listen to his Word.
The dangers and difficulties will come. That is not shocking or surprising to you. We know to whom to look and on whom to lean: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea” (Ps 46:2). Those are certainly catastrophic events. But “The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress” (Ps 46:7,11). We can be confident of his presence and power and not convinced of our own reason or resources, not depending on our might, but delighting in his muscle. We can’t hear it too often: “Be still and know that I am God” (Ps 46:10). And God keeps his word. He will not leave us, not even in death.
God doesn’t have a problem with questions—who, what, why, when, where, and how. As long as we are ready and willing to pay attention to him. God’s Word answers good questions. The Creator of is the Controller of all. And because his word to us is consistent, we can take shelter in him. Those answers are from him and to us in the darkest hour to the brightest day on earth all the way to eternity.
We read from Proverbs 30:4,5:
4 Who has gone up to heaven and come down? Who has gathered up the winds in the hollow of his hands? Who has wrapped up the waters in his cloak? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and the name of his son? Tell me if you know!
5 Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all (2 Co 13:14). Amen.
June 24, 2018
There is no shortage of questions from day to day. They come from different people depending on who is around us and in different places depending on where we are. It can be a simple, “How are you?” to a straightforward, “Who are you?”
Not that that is wrong. We need the facts. We want the answers. In fact, we are often encouraged to ask because there is no such thing as a question that is dumb. (That is not a challenge to come up with one.) A good question then deserves a good answer.
There are the standard questions words: who, what, why, when, where, and how. You determine or decide which one based on the situation or circumstance. A reporter will apply any or all of them to get the scoop on a breaking story for the nightly news.
The writer of a section of the book of Proverbs, his name is Agur (That is about as much as we know about him.), poses a series of 4 “who” questions:
“Who has gone up to heaven and come down?” (Pr 30:4).
“Who has gathered up the winds in the hollow of his hands?” (Pr 30:4).
“Who has wrapped up the waters in his cloak?” (Pr 30:4).
“Who has established all the ends of the earth?” (Pr 30:4).
Then he follows it up with 2 “what” questions:
“What is his name?” (Pr 30:4).
“and the name of his son?” (Pr 30:4).
Finally there is the challenge: “Tell me if you know!” (Pr 30:4). It is along the lines of “because you possess that information.” That is reminiscent of the instance when the Lord addressed Job. We recall Job. He was incredibly rich, but lost it all—wealth to family—in a day. His three so-called “friends” came to comfort him. Really to confront him. “Job, you must have done something really bad for this to have happened.” Job wanted to speak to God to assert his innocence.
The Lord did come. In a storm (Job 38:1). He bombarded Job with questions about the beginning of the universe. “Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation? Tell me, if you understand. Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know! Who stretched a measuring line across it? On what were its footings set, or who laid its cornerstone” (Job 38:4-6). God compares himself to an architect, a surveyor, and an engineer. He didn’t need Job’s help. He didn’t badger Job with that barrage to humiliate him, but to humble him. God is in charge. He knows what he is doing. He wanted Job to get rid of his pride and hold on to him in trust.
We recognize his greatness and goodness without having to give us an explanation as if he owes us one. He is above us. We realize our frailness and feebleness. We are below him. We stand in awe of him.
And we do know him. Because God himself has told us. We know his name—not only what designations we call him (Father, Messiah, Holy Spirit), but also everything that he has revealed to us about himself (kind and compassionate [Ex 34:6,7]). We know the name of his Son, Jesus (Ps 2:7).
But if we review those questions, it is more than just the standard, catechism answer “God,” even though that is right because they are not rhetorical.
Who has gone up to heaven and come down? (Pr 30:4). Yes, God. But there is more.
- Think of the occasion when the Lord came down to see the city and tower that the men of Babel were building, reaching up to the heavens (Ge 11:1-9). He doesn’t do anything in an arbitrary fashion. He can spot sin.
- Call to mind what Jesus once mentioned: “No one has ever gone into heaven except the one who came from heaven—the Son of Man” (Jn 3:13). God gave his Son to the world (Jn 3:16). The apostle Paul pointed out that God did it to reconcile us to himself (2 Co 5:18)—changing our relationship from one of hostility toward him to harmony with him. He stated how so succinctly “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Co 5:21). Jesus took on our sin so that he could put on his holiness. That is a great exchange. Jesus died in the place of and instead of all and was raised again (2 Co 5:14,15). We are now “a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Co 5:17).
Who has gathered up the winds in the hollow of his hands? (Pr 30:4). Yes, God. But there is more. There Jesus is asleep when that sudden squall came up on the Sea of Galilee. When his fearful disciples woke him up, he “rebuked the wind …, ‘Quiet!’” (Mk 4:39). And it was immediate. No more blowing in their face. The wind submitted to him. The breeze was nonexistent.
Who has wrapped up the waters in his cloak? (Pr 30:4). Yes, God. But there is more. From the back of the boat, Jesus also bellowed: “Be still!” (Mk 4:39). And it was instantaneous. No more beating against the ship. The waves surrendered to him. The lake was glassy smooth.
Who has established all the ends of the earth? (Pr 30:4). Yes, God. But there is more. “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth” (Ge 1:1). He did it with his almighty word. “Let there be” and there was. Jesus was there too (Jn 1:1). “Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that that has been made” (Jn 1:3). And now our “help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth” (Ps 121:2).
And when we revere God for who he is, we respect him for what he says (cf. First and Second Commandments). “Every word of God is flawless” (Pr 30:5). The content of what he communicates is perfect and pure—just like when gold is tested and refined. There are no longer any impurities or imperfections. What God relates is completely reliable and what God declares is totally dependable. It is absolutely true.
The proverb writer then makes a comparison: “He [that is, God] is a shield to those who take refuge in him” (Pr 30:5). He is like the small weapon that a soldier takes with him into battle to protect himself from attack. We go to our God because there we find safety and security. The tallest to the tiniest is helpless by himself, but helped by his Savior. When we turn to him, we can trust in him.
Consider that in the context of the disciples. These experienced fishermen thought that the unexpected gale would do them in (Mk 4:38). They run to the right person, but proceed with a rude inquiry: “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” (Mk 4:38). Of course he did. But that sounds like a child to his parent now that Mother’s Day was a month ago and Father’s Day was a week ago—especially when he doesn’t get his way: “Don’t you care?” How quickly the gratitude and gratefulness turn into criticism and critique. Those followers of Jesus called him “Teacher,” but they apparently didn’t take his teachings to heart.
We have been there. You don’t have to raise your hand. What goes through your mind when the “storms of life” hit. And not a gentle rain that is refreshing, but a hard downpour that is draining. “Jesus, this doesn’t seem to be a care to you. What is happening? Why is it happening?” It is almost as if we take God to court, to call him to account. What do we do with those questions? We need to listen to his Word.
The dangers and difficulties will come. That is not shocking or surprising to you. We know to whom to look and on whom to lean: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea” (Ps 46:2). Those are certainly catastrophic events. But “The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress” (Ps 46:7,11). We can be confident of his presence and power and not convinced of our own reason or resources, not depending on our might, but delighting in his muscle. We can’t hear it too often: “Be still and know that I am God” (Ps 46:10). And God keeps his word. He will not leave us, not even in death.
God doesn’t have a problem with questions—who, what, why, when, where, and how. As long as we are ready and willing to pay attention to him. God’s Word answers good questions. The Creator of is the Controller of all. And because his word to us is consistent, we can take shelter in him. Those answers are from him and to us in the darkest hour to the brightest day on earth all the way to eternity.
We read from Proverbs 30:4,5:
4 Who has gone up to heaven and come down? Who has gathered up the winds in the hollow of his hands? Who has wrapped up the waters in his cloak? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and the name of his son? Tell me if you know!
5 Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all (2 Co 13:14). Amen.
June 24, 2018
Monday, June 18, 2018
The Fourth Sunday after Pentecost (Psalm 92:1-15)
Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ (2 Co 1:2). Amen.
It is kind of bland, if not blah, when someone states: “It is good to _____ .” And then there is a follow up of something “good” to do. The word “good” in that sentence doesn’t sound all that great. Kind of take it or leave it. For example: “It is good to grill out on Father’s Day.” That comes across as nothing more than a useful suggestion or some helpful advice. (Plus, it also has a hidden assumption of who will turn on the gas or lay out the charcoal. Of course, dad can pick what he wants to make over the open flame. It is his day, after all.)
That is not what the psalmist had in mind. It is not a simple recommendation, but a sincere invitation. More along the lines of “it is good and right so to do” (CW pp. 21, 33). It is good to praise the Lord for his faithfulness and for our fruitfulness. We read from …
Psalm 92:1-15
Dear People of the Lord our God, who once saved us and now strengthens us,
We have another one of these special celebrations today. Father’s Day. And so we say, “Happy Father’s Day.” We pray that it is.
If you are a father in the present or have been a father in the past, you know that it is not always easy. (That is not to talk anyone out of that role in the future. It is an important responsibility from our God.)
While there is no perfect father, it is not a bad thought to show some thankfulness for all that a dad does—whether it is known or even notable, from paying bills to offering prayers. It is good to be grateful to him.
Even more so the Lord.
It Is Good to Praise the Lord
1. For his faithfulness (1-8)
2. For our fruitfulness (9-15)
1. For his faithfulness (1-8)
Being a dad is a full-time charge, not a part-time one. And it is time-consuming and can be sleep-depriving. That is not meant to be a bit of negativity, but a dose of reality. We might not be so good at acknowledging the day-to-day or appreciating the day after day—especially if dad is a constant. But even if, or when, an earthly father may falter, our heavenly Father does not fail. It is good to praise the Lord for his faithfulness.
Not every psalm has a heading. This one does. It was intended to be sung to musical accompaniment—a melody with words (cf. heading—“ A psalm. A song.”). The singer even mentions some instruments: “to the music of the ten-stringed lyre and the melody of the harp” (Ps 92:3). He is not being restrictive, but instructive. We can praise the Lord in various ways. Today we have an organ as we chanted the refrain and verses. Nothing wrong with the piano either. The same is true of a guitar or violin or you name it. Music is a means to express our excitement.
And so the psalmist begins with a parallel idea and a precise identification:
“It is good to praise the LORD” (Ps 92:1). It is something pleasing to make a public confession of who God is and what God does. After all, he is the LORD—the One who does not change when it comes to his love (Ex 34:6,7).
“It is good to … make music to your name, O Most High” (Ps 92:1). God’s name is everything that he reveals about himself—his qualities and characteristics, from punishing sin to promising salvation. And he can do that as the one who is above all, mighty and majestic. In fact, in the very middle of the psalm, he stops to shout: “But you, O LORD, are exalted forever” (Ps 92:8). He is on high and we hold him high.
If you go back to the initial information, this was composed “For the Sabbath day” (cf. heading). That was Saturday, the 7th day of the week. The Lord reserved that for rest—physical and spiritual. There was to be no work. But there was to be worship. The children of Israel were to reflect on the refreshment that the Messiah would bring for their weary and worn souls.
Whether it is that day or this day, we recall that God sends our sins away. Our hearts are no longer bothered by or burdened with guilt. All because of what God has done for us in Christ. Time praising God is good for us (Mk 2:27).
But not just one day, every day—all day:
“to proclaim your love in the morning” (Ps 92:2). After a night of safekeeping, God is there with his mercy every new day (La 3:22,23). He sees our needs and supplies them—both around us and in us. Luther captures that in his morning prayer: “I thank you, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, your dear Son, that you have kept me this night from all harm and danger. Keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please you” (CW p. 139). We go forward with him watching our coming and going (Ps 121:8). It is good to praise the Lord in the morning.
“to proclaim … your faithfulness at night” (Ps 92:2). The Lord is dependable and reliable through the challenges and changes of the day. He proves it with his presence and with his power. We trust in him as we turn to him. Again Luther leads us: “I thank you, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, your dear Son, that you have graciously kept me this day. Forgive me all my sins, and graciously keep me this night” (CW p. 139). We close our eyes in sweet slumber, safe and secure. It is good to praise the Lord at night.
While there are times that we sing in sadness, the psalmist does it with gladness. “For you make me glad by your deeds, O LORD; I sing for joy at the works of your hands” (Ps 92:4). The Lord has been active all through history—from the creation of the world to the care of his people, even bringing them back to Israel from their captivity in Babylon. All so that the Savior could be born—to carry our sin, going to the cross on Good Friday, and to cry out in victory, coming from his grave on Easter Sunday. Who can measure his initiative and his intention? We add our voices in exclamation: “How great are your works, O LORD, how profound your thoughts!” (Ps 92:5; cf. Ro 11:33). There is no scale or gauge for that. We simply stand in awe of them and of him.
That doesn’t mean that everyone gets it. “The senseless man does not know, fools do not understand” (Ps 92:6). In a way, the comparison is to a cow—somewhat dull. It is not intellectual ability, but spiritual ignorance. They don’t get why it is good to praise the Lord. The singer details their lack of discernment: “that though the wicked spring up like grass and all evildoers flourish, they will be forever destroyed” (Ps 92:7). You may be mowing your grass regularly—much more so than in January. Those who are guilty may bud and blossom, but they will not last like your lawn come the fall. Those who practice what is harmful to their relationship with God will be ruined eternally. There will be that sad end. We hear that so that we heed it.
But we give our attention to God. And we give our devotion to him. We don’t want to miss any opportunity, any chance. It is good to praise him for his faithfulness. God doesn’t just make a promise, he keeps it. Through Ezekiel, the Lord used picture language to assure of his action: “I myself will take a shoot from the very top of a cedar and plant it; I will break off a tender sprig from its topmost shoots and plant it on a high and lofty mountain” (Eze 17:22). That is a reference to the Messiah to come for them—who has come for us. Jesus Christ is the One who came from David to sit on his throne to rule forever (Lk 1:32,33). He even punctuates it—almost as if it is an exclamation mark: “I the LORD have spoken, and I will do it” (Eze 17:24). We consider that every Christmas. We enjoy it every Easter. We praise the Lord for his steadiness.
That is valuable all our life. The apostle Paul pointed out that we spend our days in an “earthly tent” (2 Co 5:1). It is temporary. Our home in heaven is eternal. We look for it. We long for it. And one day it will be ours. In the meantime, “We live by faith, not by sight” (2 Co 5:7). But there is no question about it. God has given to us his Holy Spirit “as a deposit” (2 Co 5:5)—like a down payment. When we take out a loan, we put down some cash, pledging that there will be more to follow. God asserts: “There is more to come.” We will live in heaven with him. It is good to praise the Lord for his faithfulness on earth to eternity.
2. For our fruitfulness (9-15)
There is that cliché: “like father like son.” There is often a similarity between the two—their opinions and outlooks, their walk and talk. Our heavenly Father’s work in our hearts leads to work in our lives. It is good to praise the Lord for our fruitfulness.
Once more the psalmist references those who are hostile. And he is emphatic. “For surely your enemies, O LORD, surely your enemies will perish; all evildoers will be scattered” (Ps 92:9). That is even the case at times with those who bring us trouble and cause us hardship: “My eyes have seen the defeat of my adversaries; my ears have heard the rout of my wicked foes” (Ps 92:11). We await his timing and anticipate his triumph. God is there: “You have exalted my horn like that of a wild ox” [A horn is a symbol of power.]; fine oils have been poured on me” [Oil is a sign of prosperity.] (Ps 92:10).
And he picks that up with another illustration: “The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon” (Ps 92:12). We are right with God because he covers us in Christ’s righteousness, his holiness. The tall, slender palm tree produced fruit—even in hot, dry climates. The large, magnificent cedar tree was used for construction—beams and pillars. “Planted in the house of the LORD, they will flourish in the courts of our God” (Ps 92:13). God has put the seed of conviction in us. And now like a tree does what it is meant to do—an apple tree yielding apples, so do we. The gift of faith causes fruits of faith—good works. Paul spells it out like this: “So we make it our goal to please him” (2 Co 5:9). We no longer live for ourselves, but for our Savior. And there is growth as Jesus mentioned in his parable: “All by itself the soil produces grain—first the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head” (Mk 4:28)—from first planting to final harvesting (Mk 4:29).
And it is not just for a season or a time. “They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green” (Ps 92:14). As trees age become older, they may become sickly, affecting the crop. But even past the prime of life, we stay strong in our praise: “proclaiming, “The LORD is upright; he is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in him” (Ps 92:15). We announce that he is not crooked—a place of solid and sturdy protection, in whom there is nothing bad. It is good to praise the Lord for our fruitfulness.
Father’s Day comes once a year. But we ought not limit our expressions of gratitude to that many times. “Happy Father’s Day” can translate into “Thank you, Dad” (also when he cooks outside). That is good. But it is good to praise the Lord for his faithfulness. That is the way he is morning and evening, day in and day out. It is good to praise the Lord for our fruitfulness. As we live with him, we live for him. That is good. Amen.
The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you (1 Co 16:23). Amen.
A psalm. A song. For the Sabbath day.
1 It is good to praise the LORD and make music to your name, O Most High,
2 to proclaim your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night,
3 to the music of the ten-stringed lyre and the melody of the harp.
4 For you make me glad by your deeds, O LORD; I sing for joy at the works of your hands.
5 How great are your works, O LORD, how profound your thoughts!
6 The senseless man does not know, fools do not understand,
7 that though the wicked spring up like grass and all evildoers flourish, they will be forever destroyed.
8 But you, O LORD, are exalted forever.
9 For surely your enemies, O LORD, surely your enemies will perish; all evildoers will be scattered.
10 You have exalted my horn like that of a wild ox; fine oils have been poured on me.
11 My eyes have seen the defeat of my adversaries; my ears have heard the rout of my wicked foes.
12 The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon;
13 planted in the house of the LORD, they will flourish in the courts of our God.
14 They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green,
15 proclaiming, “The LORD is upright; he is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in him.”
June 17, 2018
It is kind of bland, if not blah, when someone states: “It is good to _____ .” And then there is a follow up of something “good” to do. The word “good” in that sentence doesn’t sound all that great. Kind of take it or leave it. For example: “It is good to grill out on Father’s Day.” That comes across as nothing more than a useful suggestion or some helpful advice. (Plus, it also has a hidden assumption of who will turn on the gas or lay out the charcoal. Of course, dad can pick what he wants to make over the open flame. It is his day, after all.)
That is not what the psalmist had in mind. It is not a simple recommendation, but a sincere invitation. More along the lines of “it is good and right so to do” (CW pp. 21, 33). It is good to praise the Lord for his faithfulness and for our fruitfulness. We read from …
Psalm 92:1-15
Dear People of the Lord our God, who once saved us and now strengthens us,
We have another one of these special celebrations today. Father’s Day. And so we say, “Happy Father’s Day.” We pray that it is.
If you are a father in the present or have been a father in the past, you know that it is not always easy. (That is not to talk anyone out of that role in the future. It is an important responsibility from our God.)
While there is no perfect father, it is not a bad thought to show some thankfulness for all that a dad does—whether it is known or even notable, from paying bills to offering prayers. It is good to be grateful to him.
Even more so the Lord.
It Is Good to Praise the Lord
1. For his faithfulness (1-8)
2. For our fruitfulness (9-15)
1. For his faithfulness (1-8)
Being a dad is a full-time charge, not a part-time one. And it is time-consuming and can be sleep-depriving. That is not meant to be a bit of negativity, but a dose of reality. We might not be so good at acknowledging the day-to-day or appreciating the day after day—especially if dad is a constant. But even if, or when, an earthly father may falter, our heavenly Father does not fail. It is good to praise the Lord for his faithfulness.
Not every psalm has a heading. This one does. It was intended to be sung to musical accompaniment—a melody with words (cf. heading—“ A psalm. A song.”). The singer even mentions some instruments: “to the music of the ten-stringed lyre and the melody of the harp” (Ps 92:3). He is not being restrictive, but instructive. We can praise the Lord in various ways. Today we have an organ as we chanted the refrain and verses. Nothing wrong with the piano either. The same is true of a guitar or violin or you name it. Music is a means to express our excitement.
And so the psalmist begins with a parallel idea and a precise identification:
“It is good to praise the LORD” (Ps 92:1). It is something pleasing to make a public confession of who God is and what God does. After all, he is the LORD—the One who does not change when it comes to his love (Ex 34:6,7).
“It is good to … make music to your name, O Most High” (Ps 92:1). God’s name is everything that he reveals about himself—his qualities and characteristics, from punishing sin to promising salvation. And he can do that as the one who is above all, mighty and majestic. In fact, in the very middle of the psalm, he stops to shout: “But you, O LORD, are exalted forever” (Ps 92:8). He is on high and we hold him high.
If you go back to the initial information, this was composed “For the Sabbath day” (cf. heading). That was Saturday, the 7th day of the week. The Lord reserved that for rest—physical and spiritual. There was to be no work. But there was to be worship. The children of Israel were to reflect on the refreshment that the Messiah would bring for their weary and worn souls.
Whether it is that day or this day, we recall that God sends our sins away. Our hearts are no longer bothered by or burdened with guilt. All because of what God has done for us in Christ. Time praising God is good for us (Mk 2:27).
But not just one day, every day—all day:
“to proclaim your love in the morning” (Ps 92:2). After a night of safekeeping, God is there with his mercy every new day (La 3:22,23). He sees our needs and supplies them—both around us and in us. Luther captures that in his morning prayer: “I thank you, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, your dear Son, that you have kept me this night from all harm and danger. Keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please you” (CW p. 139). We go forward with him watching our coming and going (Ps 121:8). It is good to praise the Lord in the morning.
“to proclaim … your faithfulness at night” (Ps 92:2). The Lord is dependable and reliable through the challenges and changes of the day. He proves it with his presence and with his power. We trust in him as we turn to him. Again Luther leads us: “I thank you, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, your dear Son, that you have graciously kept me this day. Forgive me all my sins, and graciously keep me this night” (CW p. 139). We close our eyes in sweet slumber, safe and secure. It is good to praise the Lord at night.
While there are times that we sing in sadness, the psalmist does it with gladness. “For you make me glad by your deeds, O LORD; I sing for joy at the works of your hands” (Ps 92:4). The Lord has been active all through history—from the creation of the world to the care of his people, even bringing them back to Israel from their captivity in Babylon. All so that the Savior could be born—to carry our sin, going to the cross on Good Friday, and to cry out in victory, coming from his grave on Easter Sunday. Who can measure his initiative and his intention? We add our voices in exclamation: “How great are your works, O LORD, how profound your thoughts!” (Ps 92:5; cf. Ro 11:33). There is no scale or gauge for that. We simply stand in awe of them and of him.
That doesn’t mean that everyone gets it. “The senseless man does not know, fools do not understand” (Ps 92:6). In a way, the comparison is to a cow—somewhat dull. It is not intellectual ability, but spiritual ignorance. They don’t get why it is good to praise the Lord. The singer details their lack of discernment: “that though the wicked spring up like grass and all evildoers flourish, they will be forever destroyed” (Ps 92:7). You may be mowing your grass regularly—much more so than in January. Those who are guilty may bud and blossom, but they will not last like your lawn come the fall. Those who practice what is harmful to their relationship with God will be ruined eternally. There will be that sad end. We hear that so that we heed it.
But we give our attention to God. And we give our devotion to him. We don’t want to miss any opportunity, any chance. It is good to praise him for his faithfulness. God doesn’t just make a promise, he keeps it. Through Ezekiel, the Lord used picture language to assure of his action: “I myself will take a shoot from the very top of a cedar and plant it; I will break off a tender sprig from its topmost shoots and plant it on a high and lofty mountain” (Eze 17:22). That is a reference to the Messiah to come for them—who has come for us. Jesus Christ is the One who came from David to sit on his throne to rule forever (Lk 1:32,33). He even punctuates it—almost as if it is an exclamation mark: “I the LORD have spoken, and I will do it” (Eze 17:24). We consider that every Christmas. We enjoy it every Easter. We praise the Lord for his steadiness.
That is valuable all our life. The apostle Paul pointed out that we spend our days in an “earthly tent” (2 Co 5:1). It is temporary. Our home in heaven is eternal. We look for it. We long for it. And one day it will be ours. In the meantime, “We live by faith, not by sight” (2 Co 5:7). But there is no question about it. God has given to us his Holy Spirit “as a deposit” (2 Co 5:5)—like a down payment. When we take out a loan, we put down some cash, pledging that there will be more to follow. God asserts: “There is more to come.” We will live in heaven with him. It is good to praise the Lord for his faithfulness on earth to eternity.
2. For our fruitfulness (9-15)
There is that cliché: “like father like son.” There is often a similarity between the two—their opinions and outlooks, their walk and talk. Our heavenly Father’s work in our hearts leads to work in our lives. It is good to praise the Lord for our fruitfulness.
Once more the psalmist references those who are hostile. And he is emphatic. “For surely your enemies, O LORD, surely your enemies will perish; all evildoers will be scattered” (Ps 92:9). That is even the case at times with those who bring us trouble and cause us hardship: “My eyes have seen the defeat of my adversaries; my ears have heard the rout of my wicked foes” (Ps 92:11). We await his timing and anticipate his triumph. God is there: “You have exalted my horn like that of a wild ox” [A horn is a symbol of power.]; fine oils have been poured on me” [Oil is a sign of prosperity.] (Ps 92:10).
And he picks that up with another illustration: “The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon” (Ps 92:12). We are right with God because he covers us in Christ’s righteousness, his holiness. The tall, slender palm tree produced fruit—even in hot, dry climates. The large, magnificent cedar tree was used for construction—beams and pillars. “Planted in the house of the LORD, they will flourish in the courts of our God” (Ps 92:13). God has put the seed of conviction in us. And now like a tree does what it is meant to do—an apple tree yielding apples, so do we. The gift of faith causes fruits of faith—good works. Paul spells it out like this: “So we make it our goal to please him” (2 Co 5:9). We no longer live for ourselves, but for our Savior. And there is growth as Jesus mentioned in his parable: “All by itself the soil produces grain—first the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head” (Mk 4:28)—from first planting to final harvesting (Mk 4:29).
And it is not just for a season or a time. “They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green” (Ps 92:14). As trees age become older, they may become sickly, affecting the crop. But even past the prime of life, we stay strong in our praise: “proclaiming, “The LORD is upright; he is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in him” (Ps 92:15). We announce that he is not crooked—a place of solid and sturdy protection, in whom there is nothing bad. It is good to praise the Lord for our fruitfulness.
Father’s Day comes once a year. But we ought not limit our expressions of gratitude to that many times. “Happy Father’s Day” can translate into “Thank you, Dad” (also when he cooks outside). That is good. But it is good to praise the Lord for his faithfulness. That is the way he is morning and evening, day in and day out. It is good to praise the Lord for our fruitfulness. As we live with him, we live for him. That is good. Amen.
The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you (1 Co 16:23). Amen.
A psalm. A song. For the Sabbath day.
1 It is good to praise the LORD and make music to your name, O Most High,
2 to proclaim your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night,
3 to the music of the ten-stringed lyre and the melody of the harp.
4 For you make me glad by your deeds, O LORD; I sing for joy at the works of your hands.
5 How great are your works, O LORD, how profound your thoughts!
6 The senseless man does not know, fools do not understand,
7 that though the wicked spring up like grass and all evildoers flourish, they will be forever destroyed.
8 But you, O LORD, are exalted forever.
9 For surely your enemies, O LORD, surely your enemies will perish; all evildoers will be scattered.
10 You have exalted my horn like that of a wild ox; fine oils have been poured on me.
11 My eyes have seen the defeat of my adversaries; my ears have heard the rout of my wicked foes.
12 The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon;
13 planted in the house of the LORD, they will flourish in the courts of our God.
14 They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green,
15 proclaiming, “The LORD is upright; he is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in him.”
June 17, 2018
Monday, June 11, 2018
The Third Sunday after Pentecost (John 8:31,32)
Grace and peace be yours in abundance (1 Pe 1:2). Amen.
Every year there are anniversaries. That is almost insulting because it is so obvious. That is the very definition of one—an annual remembrance on the date of a notable event.
While every one is special like the celebration of a birthday year after year, there are some significant ones. Usually they end in a 5 or a 0. (A 25th or 50th Anniversary, for example.) But what about when there are two zeros? That is something to overlook.
This is not a commercial, but 2018 marks the 100th anniversary of happenings in the history of two well-known companies.
The first Chevrolet truck rolled off the assembly line for GM.
John Deere also entered the tractor business.
Both of those are recognizable since they are still around today.
But there is another one that is meaningful and momentous. At least for us. It is almost to the day. On June 13, 1918, 130 confessional Lutherans met at Trinity Lutheran Church here in St. Paul to establish the Minnesota District of the Evangelical Lutheran Joint Synod of Wisconsin, Michigan, and Other States. We consider that today.
But it is not about us, or them. But about God. And his grace. How do we observe this anniversary? Continue in Jesus’ Word with faith and for freedom. We read from …
John 8:31,32
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ Jesus, the Truth whom we look at and lean on,
An anniversary is beneficial because it allows the opportunity to reflect. Think of a husband and wife as they contemplate whatever number of years that they have spent together on the date of their wedding.
And it could be in all three directions.
Acknowledging the past,
Appreciating the present,
Awaiting the future.
That is what this observance is about. As we go forward, we recall where we have come from and rejoice about where we are. Among the challenges and changes, the Lord remains the same. And so does what he says.
Continue in Jesus’ Word
1. With faith (31)
2. For freedom (32)
1. With faith (31)
The Third Article of the Apostle’s Creed is instructive. In it Luther reminds us: “I cannot by my own thinking or choosing believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to him.” But what we could not do. The Holy Spirit did. “[He] has called me by the gospel (Luther’s Catechism p. 5). He invited you and me into God’s family through God’s Word. That is why our forefathers joined together. They had the same faith in our Triune God. They wanted to stay in that Word. We do too. Continue in Jesus’ Word with faith.
Jesus didn’t shy away from conversation. This time he was speaking “to the Jews” (Jn 8:31). They are described as those “who had believed him” (Jn 8:31). The Word had been planted in their hearts. Jesus’ desire was that it persist. Some turned to Jesus while other turned away from him (Jn 6:66).
It comes down to a connection with Christ. That is critical. Jesus comments as he stresses: “If you hold to my teaching” (Jn 8:31). Really, “if you remain, abide, in my word.” It is interesting that earlier in his Gospel, John identifies Jesus as “the Word” (Jn 1:1). That is how we communicate with one another—with words, what we think, what we feel. That is how God conveys what is on his heart—through Jesus, the Word. That God loved us and sent his Son to go to the cross and come out of the grave to give us life (Jn 6:68; 20:31). The result: “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples” (Jn 8:31). That is one who listens to a teacher and learns from him. The mark of a disciple, really the essence of a disciple, is that he or she gives his ear or her attention to Jesus.
It is not surprising that Moses mentioned that as he was taking leave of the people whom he had faithfully led for the last 40 years. “Now, Israel, hear the decrees and laws I am about to teach you. Follow them so that you may live” (Dt 4:1). He reemphasized the Ten Commandments, but more important, God’s tremendous love. He chose them to be his own. They were to cherish that bond. They were to keep before them the Messiah who would come from them and for them to remove their sin. They were to guard that carefully and closely—passing it down from generation to generation (Dt 4:9). The psalmist Asaph spoke along the same lines: “We will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done” (Ps 78:4).
It was Jesus who used that familiar illustration to instruct: “I am the vine; you are the branches” (Jn 15:5). He has grafted us to himself. We are alive. We witnessed that in a very powerful and beautiful way. God adopted Belle into his family through water and Word, bringing her to trust in him, just as he did with us. That has been going on for last century in the Minnesota District. God has used his Word to bring people to faith and build them up in that faith. That includes us. He leads us to him and keeps us with him. Continue in Jesus’ Word with faith. That makes us real disciples of him.
2. For freedom (32)
It is helpful that Luther states: “In the same way he [that is, the Holy Spirit] 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 fully forgives all sins to me and all believers” (Luther’s Catechism p. 5). There is a liberty that we enjoy. Just like those 100 years ago. Continue in Jesus’ Word for freedom.
John quotes Jesus as he was comforting his disciples in the upper room before his crucifixion the next day and his resurrection on the third day. “I am the way and the truth and the life” (Jn 14:6). What he says is true. But it is also the truth (Jn 17:17). The Truth speaks the truth. He is not like the devil, “the father of lies” (Jn 8:44).
And so Jesus informs us that if, better when we continue in his Word, “Then you will know the truth” (Jn 8:32). We will come to realize what is firm, and not false. It is not just intellectual knowledge, but personal experience. And that means that based on that Word, this is correct for both of us:
I confess that I have sinned—in many ways and at many times.
I contend that I have a Savior who lived and died in my place.
Then Jesus goes on to relate the outcome: “and the truth will set you free” (Jn 8:32). He has released us …
From sin. It no longer enslaves (Jn 8:34). We don’t live to sin or love to sin (Ro 6:1,2). It doesn’t condemn us anymore because Jesus clears us forevermore. That is because Jesus laid down his life for his friends, for us (Jn 15:13). That is freedom.
From death. It no longer frightens. Heaven is ours. As Peter put it: “In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade” (1 Pe 1:3). No one and nothing can take that away from us. God gives it to us and guarantees it to us. That is freedom.
From the devil. He cannot dominate us because Jesus has defeated him (He 2:14,15). That is freedom.
For service. Linked to the Vine, we produce fruit—“fruit that will last” (Jn 15:16). We do things that are good—whatever fits under Jesus’ command: “Love each other” (Jn 15:17). That is freedom.
Like those before us, we leave a legacy for those after us. Continue in Jesus’ word for freedom for eternity.
A 100th anniversary doesn’t happen every day. It is traditionally labeled the “Centennial,” or the “Platinum Jubilee.” (It is not the green and gold of John Deere or whatever color the first Chevy pickup was.) It is more important how we commemorate it than what we call it. For 100 years, the Minnesota District has recognized the importance of Jesus’ Word. We follow their lead. Continue in Jesus’ Word with faith and for freedom. Happy Anniversary. Amen.
Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen (2 Pe 3:18).
June 10, 2018
31 To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. 32 Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
Every year there are anniversaries. That is almost insulting because it is so obvious. That is the very definition of one—an annual remembrance on the date of a notable event.
While every one is special like the celebration of a birthday year after year, there are some significant ones. Usually they end in a 5 or a 0. (A 25th or 50th Anniversary, for example.) But what about when there are two zeros? That is something to overlook.
This is not a commercial, but 2018 marks the 100th anniversary of happenings in the history of two well-known companies.
The first Chevrolet truck rolled off the assembly line for GM.
John Deere also entered the tractor business.
Both of those are recognizable since they are still around today.
But there is another one that is meaningful and momentous. At least for us. It is almost to the day. On June 13, 1918, 130 confessional Lutherans met at Trinity Lutheran Church here in St. Paul to establish the Minnesota District of the Evangelical Lutheran Joint Synod of Wisconsin, Michigan, and Other States. We consider that today.
But it is not about us, or them. But about God. And his grace. How do we observe this anniversary? Continue in Jesus’ Word with faith and for freedom. We read from …
John 8:31,32
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ Jesus, the Truth whom we look at and lean on,
An anniversary is beneficial because it allows the opportunity to reflect. Think of a husband and wife as they contemplate whatever number of years that they have spent together on the date of their wedding.
And it could be in all three directions.
Acknowledging the past,
Appreciating the present,
Awaiting the future.
That is what this observance is about. As we go forward, we recall where we have come from and rejoice about where we are. Among the challenges and changes, the Lord remains the same. And so does what he says.
Continue in Jesus’ Word
1. With faith (31)
2. For freedom (32)
1. With faith (31)
The Third Article of the Apostle’s Creed is instructive. In it Luther reminds us: “I cannot by my own thinking or choosing believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to him.” But what we could not do. The Holy Spirit did. “[He] has called me by the gospel (Luther’s Catechism p. 5). He invited you and me into God’s family through God’s Word. That is why our forefathers joined together. They had the same faith in our Triune God. They wanted to stay in that Word. We do too. Continue in Jesus’ Word with faith.
Jesus didn’t shy away from conversation. This time he was speaking “to the Jews” (Jn 8:31). They are described as those “who had believed him” (Jn 8:31). The Word had been planted in their hearts. Jesus’ desire was that it persist. Some turned to Jesus while other turned away from him (Jn 6:66).
It comes down to a connection with Christ. That is critical. Jesus comments as he stresses: “If you hold to my teaching” (Jn 8:31). Really, “if you remain, abide, in my word.” It is interesting that earlier in his Gospel, John identifies Jesus as “the Word” (Jn 1:1). That is how we communicate with one another—with words, what we think, what we feel. That is how God conveys what is on his heart—through Jesus, the Word. That God loved us and sent his Son to go to the cross and come out of the grave to give us life (Jn 6:68; 20:31). The result: “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples” (Jn 8:31). That is one who listens to a teacher and learns from him. The mark of a disciple, really the essence of a disciple, is that he or she gives his ear or her attention to Jesus.
It is not surprising that Moses mentioned that as he was taking leave of the people whom he had faithfully led for the last 40 years. “Now, Israel, hear the decrees and laws I am about to teach you. Follow them so that you may live” (Dt 4:1). He reemphasized the Ten Commandments, but more important, God’s tremendous love. He chose them to be his own. They were to cherish that bond. They were to keep before them the Messiah who would come from them and for them to remove their sin. They were to guard that carefully and closely—passing it down from generation to generation (Dt 4:9). The psalmist Asaph spoke along the same lines: “We will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done” (Ps 78:4).
It was Jesus who used that familiar illustration to instruct: “I am the vine; you are the branches” (Jn 15:5). He has grafted us to himself. We are alive. We witnessed that in a very powerful and beautiful way. God adopted Belle into his family through water and Word, bringing her to trust in him, just as he did with us. That has been going on for last century in the Minnesota District. God has used his Word to bring people to faith and build them up in that faith. That includes us. He leads us to him and keeps us with him. Continue in Jesus’ Word with faith. That makes us real disciples of him.
2. For freedom (32)
It is helpful that Luther states: “In the same way he [that is, the Holy Spirit] 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 fully forgives all sins to me and all believers” (Luther’s Catechism p. 5). There is a liberty that we enjoy. Just like those 100 years ago. Continue in Jesus’ Word for freedom.
John quotes Jesus as he was comforting his disciples in the upper room before his crucifixion the next day and his resurrection on the third day. “I am the way and the truth and the life” (Jn 14:6). What he says is true. But it is also the truth (Jn 17:17). The Truth speaks the truth. He is not like the devil, “the father of lies” (Jn 8:44).
And so Jesus informs us that if, better when we continue in his Word, “Then you will know the truth” (Jn 8:32). We will come to realize what is firm, and not false. It is not just intellectual knowledge, but personal experience. And that means that based on that Word, this is correct for both of us:
I confess that I have sinned—in many ways and at many times.
I contend that I have a Savior who lived and died in my place.
Then Jesus goes on to relate the outcome: “and the truth will set you free” (Jn 8:32). He has released us …
From sin. It no longer enslaves (Jn 8:34). We don’t live to sin or love to sin (Ro 6:1,2). It doesn’t condemn us anymore because Jesus clears us forevermore. That is because Jesus laid down his life for his friends, for us (Jn 15:13). That is freedom.
From death. It no longer frightens. Heaven is ours. As Peter put it: “In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade” (1 Pe 1:3). No one and nothing can take that away from us. God gives it to us and guarantees it to us. That is freedom.
From the devil. He cannot dominate us because Jesus has defeated him (He 2:14,15). That is freedom.
For service. Linked to the Vine, we produce fruit—“fruit that will last” (Jn 15:16). We do things that are good—whatever fits under Jesus’ command: “Love each other” (Jn 15:17). That is freedom.
Like those before us, we leave a legacy for those after us. Continue in Jesus’ word for freedom for eternity.
A 100th anniversary doesn’t happen every day. It is traditionally labeled the “Centennial,” or the “Platinum Jubilee.” (It is not the green and gold of John Deere or whatever color the first Chevy pickup was.) It is more important how we commemorate it than what we call it. For 100 years, the Minnesota District has recognized the importance of Jesus’ Word. We follow their lead. Continue in Jesus’ Word with faith and for freedom. Happy Anniversary. Amen.
Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen (2 Pe 3:18).
June 10, 2018
31 To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. 32 Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
Sunday, June 3, 2018
The Second Sunday after Pentecost (Mark 2:23-28)
Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ (2 Co 1:2). Amen.
Do you have a day on the calendar that is significant? One that stands out or sticks out in your mind? It could be on a national level. Last week we commemorated Memorial Day. It might be on a personal note. We celebrate a birthday.
For the Jews, it was not once every year. But once every week. The Sabbath Day.
It is just a loan word from Hebrew. Sabbath. We take the letters from the original and replace them with English ones. At least the corresponding sounds. There are some facts that are probably familiar.
The Sabbath day was the 7th day of the week (Dt 5:14). That translates to Saturday. It was a special day. As Moses reminded the people of Israel: “Observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy” (Dt 5:12). It was to be set apart from and separate from the other 6 days. The Israelites were to guard that carefully like we do with anniversaries when they come around. We refer to it as the Third Commandment.
“Sabbath” signifies rest. There were two aspects to that.
1) Physical rest: “On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your ox, your donkey or any of your animals, nor the alien within your gates, so that your manservant and maidservant may rest, as you do” (Dt 5:13). In sense, they were to unplug from work as some suggest that we do with our phones. But that is just sage advice. We might do well to try it. This wasn’t a suggestion. The Lord who created our bodies knows that they can’t work all the time or around the clock.
So far so good. Jesus’ enemies, the Pharisees, would have no problem with that description, or better, definition. That wasn’t the problem. It was the application of the second part.
2) Spiritual rest: But it was more than just God being understanding. It was a day for worship—to reflect on the rest that the promised Messiah would one day bring, rest from a guilty conscience—the forgiveness of sins.
And it wasn’t just a matter of jealousy. There was that. The Pharisees were not excited when the people listened to and learned from Jesus. But it was also a question of philosophy. The Pharisees had altered or adapted God’s commands over the years. They had their own “What does this mean?” ME! It is on me and about me. The Third Commandment, as well as the others, was a way to amaze God. “Look at what I am doing.” They viewed it as part of their elaborate rules and intricate regulations to be kept to earn salvation by themselves. For example, they added what could and couldn’t be done on that day—like how far one could walk during those twenty-four hours (Acts 1:12).
Or what theoretically constituted “work.” So in their effort to trap Jesus, they finally had an airtight case against him. What lawyer wouldn’t want a slam dunk? And here it was: “One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and as his disciples walked along, they began to pick some heads of grain” (Mk 2:23). Those men were not stealing. That was permitted in the Old Testament (Dt 23:25). You could go into your neighbor’s field and get some wheat (as long as you weren’t taking a sickle to it). We might think along the lines of a snack. It wasn’t as if you were sneaking in the middle of the night and taking every single tomato from the garden next door.
“The Pharisees said to him, ‘Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?’” (Mk 2:24). They were shocked by what they witnessed. What made it improper was it went against their tradition, their augmentations or attachments of the Sabbath Day. Jesus’ disciples were breaking rabbinic code. Harvesting—rubbing the grain in their hands to remove the chaff before chewing the kernels (Lk 6:1)—was working. And Jesus didn’t stop them. What kind of a teacher was he?
It is almost as if Mark puts us at the scene of the action as Jesus recalls an account that they were certainly acquainted with. “Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry and in need?” (Mk 2:25). Of course they had.
It might require a bit of refreshing for us. It happened once when King Saul was chasing after David to kill him (1 Sa 21:1-6). Jesus relates the incident: “In the days of Abiathar the high priest, he entered the house of God and ate the consecrated bread, which is lawful only for priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions” (Mk 2:26). Every week 12 loaves of bread, representing the 12 tribes of Israel, were placed on the golden table inside the holy place of the Tabernacle. The priests were the only ones who were to eat the old ones (Le 24:5-9). It was from those that David and company dined out of an emergency. There was no condemnation of him. Human need trumped Ceremonial Law. Mercy always wins (Ho 6:6; Mt 12:7).
Jesus goes on with his instruction. He draws a conclusion: “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath” (Mk 2:27). The Sabbath Day was for man’s benefit, a gift from God—to serve him, not enslave him, as a break, not a bother. It is not the other way around. God gets nothing out of it. And Jesus can decide. He is emphatic about it: “So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath” (Mk 2:28).
He is Lord—over all and above all. He has all authority—even when it comes to the Sabbath.
He is the “Son of Man.” That is Jesus’ favorite designation for himself. He identifies with the ones he came to rescue—us, yet at the same time he is God (Da 7:13).
It comes down to the two approaches to how an individual is saved.
1) One attempts to do it all by himself or herself. It comes from inside of us. Like an arrow from me to God.
2) One admits that he or she needs God’s mercy. It comes from outside of us. Like an arrow from God to me.
God did not give us the law so that we could impress him. But to impress on us that we cannot obey it perfectly, completely, or totally (Mt 5:48; Ja 2:10; Ga 3:10). We are not holy as he is (Le 19:2). The Pharisees might not have seen it. We do. And that is why Jesus came.
To keep the law perfectly for us—in our place. He did.
To take our sins willingly on himself—on his cross. He died.
And now he invites us to come to him (Mt 11:28). And we receive refreshment of our weary and worn souls—the elimination of any and every charge against us, from when our minds stray during worship to when we stay away from worship. That is better than air-conditioning on a hot, humid day. That is why we join Paul in stating: “We do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord” (2 Co 4:5). And with the psalmist we sing: “The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy” (Ps 126:3).
The apostle Paul lumps the Sabbath Day into the category of “a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ” (Col 2:17). It pointed ahead to Jesus as it pictured real rest in him. We no longer look at a silhouette of the Savior when we have him no more than we gaze at a person’s outline on the ground when they are in front of us. We see him clearly.
But that also doesn’t make Sunday the new Sabbath Day. We have the freedom to worship. (Note that I did not say “freedom from worship,” but “freedom to worship.”) We happen to follow the lead of the early Christian church which chose the first day of the week when we worship. It was a reminder of when Jesus exited his tomb emphasizing that his work was sufficient (Ro 4:25).
We can gather around his Word and sacraments any time. As long as we are in them and around them—at church and at home. As a child of God, we delight in that. Or as we call to mind Luther’s explanation of the Third Commandment: “We should fear and love God that we do not despise preaching and his Word, but regard it as holy, and gladly hear and learn it” (Luther’s Catechism, p. 1).
You know other Hebrew words that we bring into English. Hallelujah is “praise the LORD.” It is not so strange that we do it with Sabbath. Rest. The Pharisees wrongly defined the Sabbath day as earning something. Jesus rightly redefined the Sabbath as enjoying everything. It is not requiring, but receiving—the removal of all our guilt through him. We rest in him. We rest easy.
We read from Mark 2:23-28:
23 One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and as his disciples walked along, they began to pick some heads of grain.
24 The Pharisees said to him, “Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?”
25 He answered, “Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry and in need?
26 In the days of Abiathar the high priest, he entered the house of God and ate the consecrated bread, which is lawful only for priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions.”
27 Then he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.
28 So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all (2 Co 13:14). Amen.
June 3, 2018
Do you have a day on the calendar that is significant? One that stands out or sticks out in your mind? It could be on a national level. Last week we commemorated Memorial Day. It might be on a personal note. We celebrate a birthday.
For the Jews, it was not once every year. But once every week. The Sabbath Day.
It is just a loan word from Hebrew. Sabbath. We take the letters from the original and replace them with English ones. At least the corresponding sounds. There are some facts that are probably familiar.
The Sabbath day was the 7th day of the week (Dt 5:14). That translates to Saturday. It was a special day. As Moses reminded the people of Israel: “Observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy” (Dt 5:12). It was to be set apart from and separate from the other 6 days. The Israelites were to guard that carefully like we do with anniversaries when they come around. We refer to it as the Third Commandment.
“Sabbath” signifies rest. There were two aspects to that.
1) Physical rest: “On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your ox, your donkey or any of your animals, nor the alien within your gates, so that your manservant and maidservant may rest, as you do” (Dt 5:13). In sense, they were to unplug from work as some suggest that we do with our phones. But that is just sage advice. We might do well to try it. This wasn’t a suggestion. The Lord who created our bodies knows that they can’t work all the time or around the clock.
So far so good. Jesus’ enemies, the Pharisees, would have no problem with that description, or better, definition. That wasn’t the problem. It was the application of the second part.
2) Spiritual rest: But it was more than just God being understanding. It was a day for worship—to reflect on the rest that the promised Messiah would one day bring, rest from a guilty conscience—the forgiveness of sins.
And it wasn’t just a matter of jealousy. There was that. The Pharisees were not excited when the people listened to and learned from Jesus. But it was also a question of philosophy. The Pharisees had altered or adapted God’s commands over the years. They had their own “What does this mean?” ME! It is on me and about me. The Third Commandment, as well as the others, was a way to amaze God. “Look at what I am doing.” They viewed it as part of their elaborate rules and intricate regulations to be kept to earn salvation by themselves. For example, they added what could and couldn’t be done on that day—like how far one could walk during those twenty-four hours (Acts 1:12).
Or what theoretically constituted “work.” So in their effort to trap Jesus, they finally had an airtight case against him. What lawyer wouldn’t want a slam dunk? And here it was: “One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and as his disciples walked along, they began to pick some heads of grain” (Mk 2:23). Those men were not stealing. That was permitted in the Old Testament (Dt 23:25). You could go into your neighbor’s field and get some wheat (as long as you weren’t taking a sickle to it). We might think along the lines of a snack. It wasn’t as if you were sneaking in the middle of the night and taking every single tomato from the garden next door.
“The Pharisees said to him, ‘Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?’” (Mk 2:24). They were shocked by what they witnessed. What made it improper was it went against their tradition, their augmentations or attachments of the Sabbath Day. Jesus’ disciples were breaking rabbinic code. Harvesting—rubbing the grain in their hands to remove the chaff before chewing the kernels (Lk 6:1)—was working. And Jesus didn’t stop them. What kind of a teacher was he?
It is almost as if Mark puts us at the scene of the action as Jesus recalls an account that they were certainly acquainted with. “Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry and in need?” (Mk 2:25). Of course they had.
It might require a bit of refreshing for us. It happened once when King Saul was chasing after David to kill him (1 Sa 21:1-6). Jesus relates the incident: “In the days of Abiathar the high priest, he entered the house of God and ate the consecrated bread, which is lawful only for priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions” (Mk 2:26). Every week 12 loaves of bread, representing the 12 tribes of Israel, were placed on the golden table inside the holy place of the Tabernacle. The priests were the only ones who were to eat the old ones (Le 24:5-9). It was from those that David and company dined out of an emergency. There was no condemnation of him. Human need trumped Ceremonial Law. Mercy always wins (Ho 6:6; Mt 12:7).
Jesus goes on with his instruction. He draws a conclusion: “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath” (Mk 2:27). The Sabbath Day was for man’s benefit, a gift from God—to serve him, not enslave him, as a break, not a bother. It is not the other way around. God gets nothing out of it. And Jesus can decide. He is emphatic about it: “So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath” (Mk 2:28).
He is Lord—over all and above all. He has all authority—even when it comes to the Sabbath.
He is the “Son of Man.” That is Jesus’ favorite designation for himself. He identifies with the ones he came to rescue—us, yet at the same time he is God (Da 7:13).
It comes down to the two approaches to how an individual is saved.
1) One attempts to do it all by himself or herself. It comes from inside of us. Like an arrow from me to God.
2) One admits that he or she needs God’s mercy. It comes from outside of us. Like an arrow from God to me.
God did not give us the law so that we could impress him. But to impress on us that we cannot obey it perfectly, completely, or totally (Mt 5:48; Ja 2:10; Ga 3:10). We are not holy as he is (Le 19:2). The Pharisees might not have seen it. We do. And that is why Jesus came.
To keep the law perfectly for us—in our place. He did.
To take our sins willingly on himself—on his cross. He died.
And now he invites us to come to him (Mt 11:28). And we receive refreshment of our weary and worn souls—the elimination of any and every charge against us, from when our minds stray during worship to when we stay away from worship. That is better than air-conditioning on a hot, humid day. That is why we join Paul in stating: “We do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord” (2 Co 4:5). And with the psalmist we sing: “The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy” (Ps 126:3).
The apostle Paul lumps the Sabbath Day into the category of “a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ” (Col 2:17). It pointed ahead to Jesus as it pictured real rest in him. We no longer look at a silhouette of the Savior when we have him no more than we gaze at a person’s outline on the ground when they are in front of us. We see him clearly.
But that also doesn’t make Sunday the new Sabbath Day. We have the freedom to worship. (Note that I did not say “freedom from worship,” but “freedom to worship.”) We happen to follow the lead of the early Christian church which chose the first day of the week when we worship. It was a reminder of when Jesus exited his tomb emphasizing that his work was sufficient (Ro 4:25).
We can gather around his Word and sacraments any time. As long as we are in them and around them—at church and at home. As a child of God, we delight in that. Or as we call to mind Luther’s explanation of the Third Commandment: “We should fear and love God that we do not despise preaching and his Word, but regard it as holy, and gladly hear and learn it” (Luther’s Catechism, p. 1).
You know other Hebrew words that we bring into English. Hallelujah is “praise the LORD.” It is not so strange that we do it with Sabbath. Rest. The Pharisees wrongly defined the Sabbath day as earning something. Jesus rightly redefined the Sabbath as enjoying everything. It is not requiring, but receiving—the removal of all our guilt through him. We rest in him. We rest easy.
We read from Mark 2:23-28:
23 One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and as his disciples walked along, they began to pick some heads of grain.
24 The Pharisees said to him, “Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?”
25 He answered, “Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry and in need?
26 In the days of Abiathar the high priest, he entered the house of God and ate the consecrated bread, which is lawful only for priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions.”
27 Then he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.
28 So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all (2 Co 13:14). Amen.
June 3, 2018
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