The Glory of God in the Cross
The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14 A series of preceding posts looked at the work accomplished by the Savior on the Cross. Each focused on the salvific [...]
Reconciling to Himself All Things
For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross. (Col 1:19-20) Reconciliation is the last of four images that man has commonly used to portray [...]
Facing Cavalry Six : Substitute
Lenten Reflections Anno Domini Nostri Iesu Christi 2012 We all, like sheep have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to [...]
Danger Close
A ship in a harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are for. J.A. Shedd Moving forward in any meaningful way demands a step in faith. Faith–deep soul-rooted, life-directing faith–may lead to danger. We take the steps of faith because we trust in God for what may come, whether it be into [...]
The Foundation of Prayer
“Audacious prayer, which perseveres unflinchingly and ceases not through fear, is well pleasing unto God,” wrote Luther. “As a shoe maker makes a shoe, or a tailor makes a coat, so ought a Christian to pray. Prayer is the daily business of a Christian.” Martin Luther “God does nothing but in answer to prayer.” John [...]
Faithfulness Despite Appearances–Fourth Sunday in Advent 2010
Our Advent meditations have to do with an event that none of us were present for. The life and death of our Lord passed before our era and, despite numerous predictions, His return has yet to come. Our entire system of faith is rooted in the apologia that supplements our intellect and the discernment provided [...]
Hope–Second Sunday of Advent 2010
May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 15:5-6) One of the great reminders that our observance of Advent brings, is that [...]
Psalm 69 : May Your Salvation Protect Me
On the cross at Calvary the perfect innocent was crucified. Though charges were leveled and accusations screamed about Him, there was no guilt in the verdict of the ultimate Judge. The Savior knew and trusted in the ultimate outcome of The Plan. Though our voices ring with affirmation of our trust in God and His [...]
Day 28 in the School of Prayer : I Want but I Will
“Abba, Father,” he said, “everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.” Mark 14:36 As in any course of study, the lessons come to finer and more distinct points as the class turns to its final days. The Lord has taught the discipline of [...]
Day 24 in the School of Prayer : In My Name
And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it. (John 14:13-14) Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. (John 15:16) In that day you will [...]
