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God's Word in Our LivesBehold a Branch Is Growing - Bearing Fruit and Bringing PeaceOur midweek Advent series is based on the 15th century German carol, Es Ist Ein Ros (Lo, How A Rose Er Blooming), originally sung by German Catholics in honor of Mary. The original 2nd stanza described Mary as the "Rose" who bears the Branch (i.e. Christ). The hymn has been altered to place the emphasis on Christ rather than Mary. Each week we'll connect a verse of the carol to the Old Testament prophecy it describes which points us to the promised Christ.2021-12-0313 minGod's Word in Our LivesWhen the LORD Comes Near: He Humbles His PeoplePeople tend to feel a lot of pressure this time of year. We want our houses to look good for out-of-town guests. We want to impress people with the thoughtfulness of our gifts. What a welcome relief to hear what is required to meet the Lord: only repentance. You see, Jesus is not someone we need to impress with our good works. Indeed, repentance is the opposite of work. Repentance is the humble admission of our sin combined with the joyful trust that everything needed to bring us close to God has already been done by him.2021-11-2821 minGod's Word in Our LivesConnecting the Old with the New: ThanksgivingHappy Thanksgiving! God has always intended Thanksgiving to be a part of worship. In the Old Testament God regulated the Thanksgiving of his people so they would always see Him as the source of all their blessings. Tonight we’ll see, that while God no longer regulates how we are to give thanks, Thanksgiving will always remain an integral part of our worship. Praise God from whom all blessings flow!2021-11-2523 minGod's Word in Our LivesDisciples of Jesus Love JesusEvery Christian needs a reminder from time to time. Every moment of every day draws us one moment closer to the scene in this week's Gospel lesson. The nations are gathered before Jesus and the end has come. Of course, if you're reading this, that scene has not yet happened. The end has not yet come. Until it does, what do we do? How do we live? How do we love? This week, as we review Jesus' prophecy of the end of all things, we will learn what life looks like for a Christian. We'll review the mission we're...2021-11-2128 minGod's Word in Our LivesGod's Scale Of JusticeThanks to Vicar Jordan from Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church for bringing God's Word to us today!2021-11-1421 minGod's Word in Our LivesBlessed Are The Children Of GodAll Saints' Day (Nov. 1) is a universal festival of the Church. We remember our loved ones who have died in the Lord, as well as remember why they are saints. Christians are members of the same family with them, as Christians have historically confessed in the Apostles Creed: “The holy Christian church the communion of saints.” Special thanks to Pastor Ruddat for sharing God’s Word with us. The theme is: Blessed are the Children of God.2021-11-0722 minGod's Word in Our LivesHere We StandBeginning in 2017 we began what, for many of us, will be a lifetime of "500th" anniversaries. 2017 was the 500th anniversary of the Lutheran Reformation in the sense that 500 years had passed since the event that is widely viewed as the beginning of the Lutheran Reformation (Martin Luther's 95 Theses). Of course, the Lutheran Reformation did not occur on one specific day. Nor were it's events contained in the year 1517. There will be opportunity to commemorate event after event for the rest of our lives. 2021 presents us another opportunity as this is the 500th anniversary of Martin Luther's famous "stand" at...2021-10-3122 minGod's Word in Our LivesSpiritual AdulterySins committed in our relationships always cause pain. Sometimes the pain is emotional. Sometimes it's physical. Sadly, it's often both. And yet, while it's true that all sins committed in any relationship cause pain, adultery committed within the bond of Christian marriage causes the most pain. Today, as we focus our attention on the words of the prophet Hosea, we get a glimpse into one of the most challenging marriages of all time. The pain caused by adultery was immense, but God used that pain for good. He used Hosea's broken marriage as an illustration to teach his people...2021-10-1722 minGod's Word in Our LivesThe Authority of JesusFaith always has an object, and the object of faith is always what is believed in. I believe "in humanity." Humanity is the object of that kind of faith. I believe "in Jesus." Jesus is the object of that kind of faith. But who is this Jesus? What is he capable of? Does this person who has faith "in Jesus" simply believe Jesus exists? Does this person believe Jesus is a great teacher? The object of faith matters. This week, in Matthew's Gospel, Jesus shows us the object of faith that saves; his authority.2021-10-1021 minGod's Word in Our LivesThe Teacher KingWhat's more formidable; the teacher leading 12 students on a field trip, or the elite Navy officer leading 12 Navy Seals on an operation? It's a silly comparison, but a helpful one to better understand how many in Israel perceived Jesus. He was a teacher of 12, not the mighty military man they expected in the promised Christ. This week, we focus on Jesus the Teacher King.2021-10-0324 minGod's Word in Our LivesWhy Sabbath?Why are you here today, listening to this podcast? What leads you to take time out of your week to attend public worship? What keeps you from attending on any given week? The answers to questions like these will do one of two things, they will either increase humility or increase pride. Today, Jesus helps us understand why.2021-09-2623 minGod's Word in Our LivesGod's Glory = No Worries"Don't Worry!" How many times have you heard someone say that? It's one thing for a human to encourage other humans to leave worry behind. It's another when God tells us not to worry. Today, as we hear Jesus tell us not to worry about anything, we'll discover the impact the glory of God has on our worries.2021-09-1225 minGod's Word in Our LivesLabor DayFor over 125 years, Americans have celebrated Labor Day on the first Monday of September. As with all national holidays, this holiday is intended to provide more than a long weekend. According to the U.S. Department of Labor website, Labor Day is supposed to give Americans an opportunity to celebrate “the social and economic achievements of American workers.” Interestingly enough, as we gather for worship on this particular Labor Day weekend, this week’s Old Testament lesson just so happens to provide us with the perfect reminder for a holiday that celebrates labor.2021-09-0522 minGod's Word in Our Lives"What Must I Do?"For many young people in our nation, school has either just started, or is right around the corner. The question asked of Jesus in this week's Gospel lesson is a question that every good student wants answered. "What must I do?" What's expected of me? After all, if you're going to succeed in school, don't you have to first understand what's expected? In this week's Gospel lesson, Jesus seeks to make God's expectations for you and me crystal clear.2021-08-2927 minGod's Word in Our LivesJesus Has Done Everything Well!We often discuss the impossible standard of God's Law. As human beings conceived in sin, we are unable to perfectly obey God's Law. It's that simple. And it's this simple reality that makes the Gospel so sweet! This week, we'll see that Jesus is able to be the Savior we need because of his ability to perfectly obey God's Law! Jesus has done everything well!2021-08-2219 minGod's Word in Our LivesThe LORD Has Taken Away Your Sin“Jesus takes away your sin!” Of all the ways to share the Gospel with a child, “Jesus takes away your sin!” is one of the most common. Simple is good, but as with anything simple, simplicity can often lead to misunderstanding. Today, we focus on a beautiful example of God taking away sin from the Old Testament. As we do, there will be no room for misunderstanding what God means by “take away sin.”2021-08-1524 minGod's Word in Our LivesGrace AloneWay back in 1981, Pastor Mark Cares was called to serve a small church in Nampa, Idaho called Messiah. It didn’t take long to learn that the church was located deep in Mormon country. Many years of serving in this setting served as the foundation of Truth in Love Ministry. Today, the Mission Advancement Director of Truth in Love Ministry, Pastor Phil Koelpin, is here to share God’s Word with us. We’ll also have an opportunity to learn a little bit about the work TILM is carrying out to share the Gospel with precious souls for whom Jesus...2021-08-0822 minGod's Word in Our LivesThe Risen Fish FinderThis week, during our campfire themed VBS, we've focused on a number of fire themed Biblical accounts that teach us important lessons about who our God is and what he's done. In short, we've learned that, because of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross, the LORD is our God, now and forever! Other "gods" can't do anything for us. The LORD, he is our God! Today we conclude our campfire themed VBS as we see the risen Jesus cooking breakfast over a little campfire for his hungry disciples. God bless our time in his Word!2021-08-0114 minGod's Word in Our LivesKnow The Word!This week Jesus encourages his Church to be on the lookout for Pseudo-Prophets (false prophets). Well, how do we do that? Simple really. Know the Word! If you know what God's Word actually says, you will easily identify false prophets because they'll say things that God's Word does not say! Intimidated? Don't be! You don't need to be a Doctor of Theology to "Know the Word." This week's Scripture Lessons sum up the message of the Scriptures in the simplest ways so that even a child can "Know the Word!"2021-07-2522 minGod's Word in Our LivesA New Perspective On SlaveryDue to the context of America’s history with chattel slavery, as we study what the Scriptures have to say about slavery, including the many Scriptural illustrations that feature slavery, we identify an extra layer of complexity. We would do well to not only identify our nation’s history with slavery but compare and contrast it with slavery as we find it referenced and applied in God’s Word. Today, aware of the reality and history of slavery in our nation’s past, we strive to find a new, Biblical perspective on slavery as we dive into a portion of Roman...2021-07-1823 minGod's Word in Our LivesThe Right Kind Of RighteousOur sinful self is programed to focus on action from a specific direction. From the perspective of the sinful human, the human is always the subject who performs the action. “Look at how I served my neighbor!” “Look at how I served God!” The human is the subject. God and the neighbor are the object of the service. This week, Jesus warns us of the great danger of this perspective! This is the perspective of one who will spend eternity in hell! Jesus also gives us a different perspective. “Look at how I have served you!” says your Savior. God is the s...2021-07-1123 minGod's Word in Our LivesThe Life of an HeirWhat’s the life of an heir like? If you’re an heir, you don’t yet have the estate, but you know you one day will. How would that change the way you live life on a day to day basis? The wealth is not yet under your control, but the fact that you’re an heir means one day it will be. There is no doubt about it. Since we are God’s children, we are also God’s’ heirs. This fact has a remarkable impact on everything that happens in this life, as well as in the life to co2021-06-2718 minGod's Word in Our LivesRescue For The Lost!“Though we easily forget our own sins, we sternly censor the sins of others. As insignificant as we generally regard sin, so easily do we refuse to forgive certain sinners.” Those words are the opening lines of a sermon on today’s Gospel Lesson by a pastor named CFW Walther preached around the year 1850. They set the tone well. Today we consider how easy it is for us to elevate ourselves above others—to place ourselves on a pedestal above even just one other person. The danger in such an attitude is seen when I start to think someone else is...2021-06-2019 minGod's Word in Our LivesAn Inclusive InvitationNo one likes to be excluded. And yet, our world is full of exclusivity. So full of exclusivity, we may not even realize when an invitation is exclusive. Something as simple as a children’s playground can be quite exclusive as most, if not all, of the play equipment often excludes children with physical disabilities. This week, we’ll learn an important lesson about God’s inclusive invitation. It’s the inclusivity of the invitation itself that makes it an invitation you do not want to reject!2021-06-1321 minGod's Word in Our LivesA One God LifeThe First Commandment goes like this, “You shall have no other gods before me.” How would you teach that commandment to a child? First, you’d need to explain to that child the difference between the one true God, and any other “god.” A god is that from which we expect good things and in which we are to take refuge in all distress. Your god is either the LORD, or your god is not the LORD. This week, we focus on a portion of what is essentially the catechism of the Old Testament and hear our God instruct us to unde...2021-06-0622 minGod's Word in Our LivesThe Perfect God For Imperfect PeopleHistorically, the Christian Church has focused its attention on the Triune God the first Sunday after Pentecost. Today we’ll do the same. As we do, we’ll take a look at an incredible scene in which the prophet Isaiah finds himself face to face with the one and only Triune God. As you might imagine, this experience fills Isaiah with terror and a sense of inadequacy. Like you and me, Isaiah was an imperfect person. And yet, imperfect though he was, Isaiah soon learned the Triune God is the perfect God for imperfect people! 2021-05-3018 minGod's Word in Our LivesThe Beginning of the EndWe don’t know a lot about the prophet Joel, but we do know that Joel was warning God’s people about a very challenging time ahead. It was the beginning of the end for this nation. Through it all God made some promises—some big promises—promises that were fulfilled on Pentecost. Today, as we celebrate Pentecost, we not only see these promises fulfilled on that day, but every day. As we review the promises made through Joel, we see their fulfilment signals the beginning of the end. Thank the Lord his promises also mean deliverance in the end!2021-05-2322 minGod's Word in Our LivesNothing But Good Things To Say!“I’ve got nothing but good things to say!” Could a more positive review be left for your favorite restaurant? How about if that’s the endorsement of a prospective hairstylist? This week, as a number of young men and women at Mt. Olive are confirmed, they will do what all Christians do! They will say good things about the God who, thanks to Jesus, has nothing but good things to say about them!2021-05-1619 minGod's Word in Our LivesA Prayer In Jesus' NameChristians are used to ending their prayers with the phrase "In Jesus' name, Amen." I wonder how often we chew on what that really means. In worship this week, we'll consider what it was like to pray to the one true God before Jesus came. We'll ask the one true God to help us better appreciate the depth of the phrase "in Jesus' name," and we'll do so "in Jesus' name!"2021-05-0921 minGod's Word in Our LivesThe Wonderful Work of the SpiritThe work of the Holy Spirit truly is wonderful! Wonderful - “inspiring delight, pleasure, or admiration; extremely good; marvelous.” Couldn’t come up with a better descriptor of the Holy Spirit’s work if I tried! Do you view the Holy Spirit’s work that way? Lord willing, after this week’s service, you will! 2021-05-0221 minGod's Word in Our LivesThe Good ShepherdNo fancy theme this week. Just a few minutes to ponder what makes our Good Shepherd so very "Good!" Join us!2021-04-2517 minGod's Word in Our Lives"No One Will Take Away Your Joy"When you've faced the most intense grief you've ever experienced, can you imagine if the cause of your grief caused joy in others? This is exactly what Jesus prepared his disciples for on Maundy Thursday. The cause of their grief would cause others in the world to rejoice. And yet, as awful as that sounds, their grief would one day turn to joy--joy that could never be taken away! In Jesus, the same is true for you. In Jesus, you have joy that no one will take away!2021-04-1820 minGod's Word in Our Livesμακάριος!Thomas gets quite the reputation from today’s Gospel lesson. Would your reaction have been any different if you were in his shoes? Today, as we consider Jesus’ interaction with Thomas, we come face to face with the true meaning of Easter a we ponder the Greek word, "μακάριος."2021-04-1120 minGod's Word in Our LivesLife-Giving Hands!John Chrysostom lived from 349 AD to 407 AD. He was as leader in the Christian church of his day. In an Easter sermon preached around the year 400, he said, “Let no one mourn that he has fallen again and again; for forgiveness has risen from the grave.” Forgiveness has risen from the grave! What a beautiful thought. As sinful human beings, we’re good at convincing ourselves that we must suffer the pangs of guilt. As if this pain we experience as the result of our sins will somehow please God. This morning, we see that concept shattered! Jesus has risen...2021-04-0421 minGod's Word in Our LivesNail-Pierced Hands"Were you there?" There's a famous Lent hymn by that title. Were you there when they crucified my Lord? Were you there when they nailed him to the tree? Were you there when they laid him in the tomb? Well? Were you? 2021-04-0317 minGod's Word in Our LivesHands of HumilityAre you quick to recommend the restaurant with terrible service? Of course not. But I bet you are quick to recommend any service provider who excels! This evening we witness the finest example of selfless service ever. Jesus comes highly recommended!2021-04-0217 minGod's Word in Our LivesHands of PraiseThe eternal church service! Not your favorite way of picturing heaven? This week, as we look at the hands of those who praised Jesus that first Palm Sunday, we review what praise is and remember why Jesus is worthy of eternal praise.2021-03-2818 minGod's Word in Our LivesNo Qualifications RequiredYou’re out of work, and looking for a job. You need a job and will do anything. Only problem is every job has a list of qualifications a mile long. You don’t meet half of them… But then, just when you’re about to give up, your eye catches a job post with the phrase “No Qualifications Required!” in big bold letters! Today, we’ll see that God provides for the physical and spiritual needs of all. No Qualifications Required! 2021-03-1420 minGod's Word in Our LivesGuardedWhile some members of our society voluntarily serve in the military and may see combat, we ordinary citizens are far removed from military conflict. That's a blessing! But it also means we probably have a challenging time truly relating to war-related word pictures. This week, Jesus describes his battle against Satan with military language. We'll do our best to get to the bottom of his message for us!2021-03-0721 minGod's Word in Our LivesDon't Give Up On MeWhen someone is relying on you, there is a certain pressure you experience. Some thrive under that pressure, some might struggle. Even if you consider yourself a person who thrives under pressure, you've struggled before. No doubt you've said, or thought, "Don't give up on me!" Keep those words in mind as we focus on what seems like a strange interaction between Jesus and a Canaanite woman.2021-02-2813 minGod's Word in Our LivesGod Really Did SayWe would do well to study the tactics Satan used in the Garden of Eden and to study them often. He uses the same tactics on us every day. This week we'll dig into the account of the fall into sin recorded in Genesis chapter 3. We'll learn Satan's tactics and see our Savior overcome Satan's best efforts once and for all!2021-02-2222 minGod's Word in Our LivesHands of RepentanceWhen we consider Jesus and the people around him in his Passion, we can’t help but think of their hands - the hands that beat their breast, accepted money for betrayal, petulantly swung swords, pointed in accusation, beat and disavowed, praised, washed, were pierced and offered eternal life. In short, we can’t help but think about how we sinners have had the same sinful hands of those who surrounded Jesus in his Passion, and how Jesus our Savior has touched us with his hands of grace.2021-02-1817 minGod's Word in Our LivesA Face Like FlintWe’re less than 50 days from Easter! But before we celebrate the resurrection of our Savior Jesus, we have the season of Lent which begins on Wednesday. During Lent, we come to grips with the reality of our own sin. Lent is a season of repentance. What better way to prepare ourselves to journey through Lent, than with a glimpse of who Jesus really is! Today, we’ll see a glimpse of his glory on a mountain with Peter, James and John. But then, Jesus will come down from that mountain and turn his face toward the task at hand...2021-02-1417 minGod's Word in Our LivesA Sower, Seed And SoilIt's a simple parable, really. There is a sower who scatters some seed. Depending on where the seed falls, different results are sure to be evident. Jesus even explains it for us! The seed is the Word of God. The sower is the one sharing God's Word. The not-so fertile environments on which the seeds fall are caused by sin and devil. The good soil is only made good in one way! This week, we'll explore this famous parable together.2021-02-0720 minGod's Word in Our Lives"I Am Good"“I am good.” Humans, in our natural state, believe that statement about ourselves. Grace is a concept our sinful nature hates. Grace is love that is not deserved. My sinful nature, and yours, wants to deserve. Martin Luther once stated, “It is certain that man must utterly despair of his own ability before he is prepared to receive the grace of Christ.” This is most certainly true. Today, one of Jesus’ many parables will lead us to ponder the quote, “I am good.” Who can say such a thing? Your God can and does!2021-01-3121 minGod's Word in Our LivesThe Best Is Yet To Come!As you read through the Scriptures, there is a ton of information! One massive narrative, compiled over the course of more than 1500 years, is interspersed with prophecies and poetry. Promises are made and promises are kept. Everything we need to know about who we are and where we stand with God is found in this library of books we call the Bible. God has told us so much. And yet, a time will come when we know much, much more! As we are reminded this week, the best is yet to come!2021-01-2419 minGod's Word in Our Lives"I Must Be In My Father's House"Parents, have you ever lost track of the location of one of your children? I’m sure it’s not quite as common as it seems, but a lot of folks seem to have “lost child” stories. The most common one is usually set in a department store. Rows and rows of clothing on hanging racks tends to reduce sight lines for the tall parents looking for their small children. “Thinking he was in their company,” many parents have moved on to a different section of the store, without their son. In our Gospel lesson for today, a similar th...2021-01-1720 minGod's Word in Our Lives"You Know!"12 days after Christmas every year, for centuries, the Christian Church has remembered how the Magi came from a foreign land to worship Jesus who was only about a year old. The church commemorates this part of Jesus’ life because it reminds us that Jesus appeared not only with salvation for the Jewish people, but he appeared also for non-Jews like you and me. Today we’ll see that lesson applied in the life and ministry of the Apostle Peter.2021-01-1022 minGod's Word in Our LivesA King Worthy Of WorshipThere are quite a few common misconceptions about the magi who came in search of the one who had been born king of the Jews. Art, like that found in today’s worship folder, often depicts 3 magi. There may have been 3, but that’s simply an assumption based on the 3 gifts of gold, incense and myrrh. How many magi were there? We simply don’t know! What was this star guiding them—even all the way to the house!? We don’t know. How long after Jesus’ birth did they arrive? We’re not told. And yet, while questions like these can...2021-01-0815 minGod's Word in Our LivesA Little Herod In UsA brief study of world history reveals a list of evil rulers as wide as it is long. This week, we'll hear about the wicked actions of King Herod the Great. As we do, we receive a humbling reminder that the evil found in Herod's heart is found in ours as well. Only Christ, God's promised Anointed One, King of Kings and Lord of Lords can heal our sinful hearts!2021-01-0314 minGod's Word in Our LivesPerspective For A New YearMy perspective often needs refreshing. As a father, when my children aren't getting along, I often become convinced I know why. But then, more often than I’d like to admit, a few hours later a little more information leads me to a humbling conclusion. I was wrong. My perspective was limited and I didn’t have enough information. As humans, our perspective is always limited. God’s perspective is limitless! As we prepare to begin a new year, we gather to listen to God’s Word for a perspective refresher! May our Gracious God help us to see life mor...2021-01-0117 minGod's Word in Our LivesHeirs of the EstateWhat does it mean to be a “child of God.” For starters, as Jesus teaches us in the Lord’s Prayer, it means we rightly get to call God “Our Father!” That alone is an amazing truth, but there’s so much more! As children of God, THE Son of God (Jesus himself) is our brother! And as we’ll see today, the fact that you and I are children of God means we are heirs of the estate—THE estate! Heaven itself! Lord’s blessings on your worship this morning!2020-12-2722 minGod's Word in Our LivesBorn of GodWhen do we give gifts? It’s usually twice per year, right? Birthdays and Christmas (which is another birthday celebration). Why are gifts so closely associated with birthdays? This year, our Christmas celebration will focus our eyes on the greatest gift ever given—Jesus our Savior! But that’s not the only gift you receive thanks to Christmas! Thanks to Jesus, you’re given the gift of being born children of God! That is an awesome gift.2020-12-2517 minGod's Word in Our LivesThe Songs of Christmas: The Angels' Song (Christmas Eve 2020)Christmas brings Glory to God and Peace to Men? Really? Glory to God? Peace to Men? Doesn't seem like it... Join us this Christmas Eve to dig into the great news found in the song sung by angels who announced Jesus' birth!2020-12-2516 minGod's Word in Our LivesWho are you, John?In our Gospel lesson for today, John the Baptist responds to questions from the Jews. "Who are you?" they ask. John tells them clearly, "I am not the Christ!" He then goes on to explain who he actually was. John was the one God promised to send who would prepare the way for the Messiah! As we prepare to celebrate the birth of God's promised Messiah this Christmas, it is fitting that John would once again carry out his calling to prepare our hearts to celebrate Christmas!2020-12-2018 minGod's Word in Our LivesThe Songs of Christmas: Simeon's SongThis year, the theme for our mid-week gatherings leading up to Christmas Eve has been “The Songs of Christmas.” In Luke chapters 1 and 2 there are 4 specific Christmas songs recorded for us. In order, they are Mary’s song, Zechariah’s song, the Angel’s song and finally Simeon’s song. For our three mid-week gatherings leading up to Christmas we’ll be focusing on Mary’s song, Zechariah’s song, and even though it technically follows Jesus’ birth, Simeon’s song. These songs will ultimately lead us to the first true Christmas carol, the Angel’s song. The Angel’s song will be our focus o...2020-12-1813 minGod's Word in Our LivesGood News For The PoorIf you were poor, what would good news sound like? Would it be news of a bill paid by a stranger? News that you've been hired for a new job? News that your spouse was bringing food home? Notice the words "If you were poor,..." poses the question in a way that assumes you're not poor. Is that true? This week God's Word will remind us of a poverty that is absolutely necessary for us to see in ourselves if we're to be prepared to celebrate Christmas. 2020-12-1318 minGod's Word in Our LivesThe Songs of Christmas: Zechariah's SongThis year, the theme for our mid-week gatherings leading up to Christmas Eve will be “The Songs of Christmas.” In Luke chapters 1 and 2 there are 4 specific Christmas songs recorded for us. In order, they are Mary’s song, Zechariah’s song, the Angel’s song and finally Simeon’s song. For our three mid-week gatherings leading up to Christmas we’ll be focusing on Mary’s song, Zechariah’s song, and even though it technically follows Jesus’ birth, Simeon’s song. These songs will ultimately lead us to the first true Christmas carol, the Angel’s song. The Angel’s song will be our focus on...2020-12-1117 minGod's Word in Our LivesYour Redemption Is Drawing Near!Find a few movies that focus on the potential destruction of earth, and you’ll find a common theme somewhere in those movies. Humans will be the heroes! At its core, our sinful nature thinks very highly of itself. Today Jesus challenges that humanistic confidence with the reality of his imminent return, the destruction of the universe as we know it, and the Judgment of all humanity. There is only one way to display the confidence and peace Jesus encourages us to have! Today, by God’s grace, we’ll find that confidence and peace! 2020-12-0621 minGod's Word in Our LivesThe Songs of Christmas: Mary's SongThis year, the theme for our mid-week Advent gatherings leading up to Christmas Eve will be “The Songs of Christmas.” In Luke chapters 1 and 2 there are 4 specific Christmas songs recorded for us. In order, they are Mary’s song, Zechariah’s song, the Angel’s song and finally Simeon’s song. For our three mid-week gatherings leading up to Christmas we’ll be focusing on Mary’s song, Zechariah’s song, and even though it technically follows Jesus’ birth, Simeon’s song (you’ll understand why two weeks from today!). These songs will ultimately lead us to the first true Christmas carol, the...2020-12-0410 minGod's Word in Our Lives3 Words That Will Change Your Life - Part 4 (Thanksgiving!)So here we are. Thanksgiving in the year 2020. I’m guessing a part of you would be just fine with fast forwarding to Thanksgiving 2021, if that were an option. When we were celebrating Thanksgiving 2019 I’m confident no one saw all this coming. On the surface, it might seem easy to be less “thankful” in 2020 than we were back in good ole 2019. Thankfully, we have every reason to be just as thankful now as ever before. GOD is here! And thanks to Jesus, that’s the best headline the news has ever seen! 2020-11-2916 minGod's Word in Our LivesThy Kingdom ComeIs Christmas on your mind yet? If you're not quite there yet, you probably will be soon. Lights and Christmas trees are going up. Christmas classics will soon be playing on the radio. People all around us are preparing to celebrate Christmas. We're preparing too. Advent is a season designed to help us prepare for Christmas, but Advent is more than lights, trees, music and warm fuzzy feelings. Advent is an opportunity to remember why we need the Savior whose birth we're once again preparing to celebrate. Today the preparation begins. 2020-11-2914 minGod's Word in Our Lives3 Words That Will Change Your Life - Part 3God’s Word is clear. Sin destroys relationships. It destroys our relationships on this earth, and it destroys our relationship with God. Sin means a concept like “God is here!” should terrify us. This is why Jesus matters so much. Faith in Jesus means our sins are forgiven. Faith in Jesus means death is not the end. Faith in Jesus means instead of terror, God’s presence now brings joy!2020-11-2218 minGod's Word in Our Lives3 Words That Will Change Your Life - Part 2Our God has made us with a hunger for eternity. We crave things that last and can’t stand things that fade away. Can you imagine a car that never breaks down, needs repair, or runs out of gas? How about a body that never breaks down, never gets sick, never dies? Today in worship, we’ll see how our GOD is exactly what we crave! The eternal “I AM.” 2020-11-1524 minGod's Word in Our Lives3 Words That Will Change Your Life - Part 1Do you think much of God? That question could be understood in 2 ways depending on how you interpret the word “much.” It could mean, “Do you think often of God?” It could also mean, “Do you think highly of God?” This week, we’ll begin a 4 part sermon series that will ask us to rethink how we view our God. **This series is based on the book of the same title written by Pastor Mike Novotny. Used by permission.2020-11-0818 minGod's Word in Our LivesThe Throne Room of GodThere's a reason Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the church door in Wittenberg, Germany on October 31, 1517. (October 31st). The next day, November 1st, was All Saints Day and the church would be packed! In our worship today, we commemorate the Lutheran Reformation and also celebrate All Saints Day all in one service! We'll find ourselves in the throne room of our God as we glimpse the ultimate goal of the Reformation and destination of every saint.2020-11-0118 minGod's Word in Our LivesYou're invited!Wedding invitations often lead to a dilemma. To go? Or not to go? As a general rule of thumb, the closer the relation, the more likely that you’ll attend. But sometimes, you get an invitation to a wedding, and for one reason or another, decide, “I can’t go.” In this week’s parable, we’ll hear about a king who’s prepared a wedding banquet for his son. Invitations are sent out. Many decide, they can’t attend. What does it all mean? This week we’ll dig in and find out. 2020-10-2518 minGod's Word in Our LivesAuthority To ForgiveForgiveness is a concept familiar to Christians because forgiveness is the heart and soul of Christianity. It's the centrality of forgiveness that sets Christianity apart from every other religion on the face of the planet. This week, we focused our attention on Jesus' authority to forgive. 2020-10-2018 minGod's Word in Our LivesWhat do you think about the Christ?What you think about the Christ will show itself in your life. There is no doubt! If your idea of Jesus is the smiling white man in the painting on your wall at home, that will show itself. Maybe you forget that Jesus doesn't look like that anymore! His appearance is far more like John's description in Revelation chapter 1 than the typical artist's rendition. This week we'll discuss the very important question, "What do you think about the Christ?" 2020-10-1123 minGod's Word in Our LivesA Humble WalkHow much can you tell about a person simply by watching them walk? Perhaps the swagger of a young man walking on the sidewalk convinced you of his arrogance. Or maybe it was the slumped shoulders and dragging feet of the lone teenager that made your own heart sink for someone clearly struggling with depression. Can you really tell all that from the way a person walks? This week, we'll see that the walk of a Christian looks a lot different from the walk of a hypocrite.2020-10-0426 minGod's Word in Our LivesFrom Death To LifeA Christian loved one has just died. You mourn the earthly loss. You celebrate the eternal victory of the one you miss. In the blink of an eye, the funeral comes and goes. You transition from mourning a death, back to living life. Ah, but there is the problem! The life you go back to living will soon again be brought to a screeching halt by death! Another loved one will die. You will die. This week, we'll talk about a different transition from death to life; a better transition from death to life!2020-09-2719 minGod's Word in Our LivesYour Father KnowsThink back to your childhood. Can you remember a time when you were convinced your parents did not know what you needed? Parents, think back to the long nights where your child was crying and screaming. Can you remember a time when you were convinced you did not know what your child needed? Neither of these scenarios apply to our God! We may become convinced that our God does not know what we need. But he does! He will never look at us and throw his hands up in frustration unable to comprehend our needs. This week, we'll be...2020-09-2017 minGod's Word in Our LivesThe Law of LoveOur God summarizes all 10 commandments in this way, "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” (Luke 10:27) That sounds good to our ears. In fact, it sounds so good to our ears, that the second half is known by people all over the world as the "Golden Rule." Plenty of those people aren't even Christians. Today we'll focus on Jesus' parable about The Good Samaritan. As we do, we'll learn the point of the Law of Love.2020-09-1319 minGod's Word in Our LivesUncommon Mercy Leads To Uncommon ThankfulnessUncommon mercy leads to uncommon thankfulness. Think about that for a moment. Uncommon mercy leads to uncommon thankfulness. This may seem obvious, but if you or I are going to show thankfulness/gratitude, we first need someone to thank. But have you ever considered how the amount of our thankfulness—the quality of our thankfulness—directly corresponds to the reason for our thankfulness? Today, we’ll focus on how the mercy shown to us by our God directly impacts our thankfulness. Lord’s blessings on your worship!2020-09-1315 minGod's Word in Our LivesSanctificationImagine you are in the crowd huddled around Jesus. A man who is deaf and hardly able to speak at all is there with you. His friends are begging Jesus just to touch him. That's how convinced they are Jesus can help. Jesus then takes the man aside, away from the crowd, touches him and says, "Be Opened." The man can hear and speak clearly! Just like that! What power in Jesus' Words! Would you listen to Jesus' Words after that? You would, wouldn't you? This week we'll see people in that very circumstance, who did not listen to...2020-08-3019 minGod's Word in Our LivesJustifiedThe God who created us gave us a conscience. That conscience is kind of like a little judge holding court over every aspect of our lives. The conscience either pats you on the back and declares you "not guilty" when you do good, or points the accusatory finger and slams the gavel when you sin. "Guilty!" This is why everyone feels "guilt." Everyone has a conscience. The question is, how do we deal with guilt? We focus on what Jesus means when he calls you "justified." This "justification" is the best and only way to truly address our guilt!2020-08-2418 minGod's Word in Our LivesA Heart For The HardenedIn Ezekiel chapter 11, God made a promise. "I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from them their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh." That's a really important promise! Everyone human is born with a "heart of stone." That heart of stone is cold, dead and steeped in sin. It hates God. And yet, God has a heart for the hardened. In our Gospel lesson for this week, we'll see Jesus prove it. 2020-08-1616 minGod's Word in Our LivesThe Master And His ManagerThe history of slavery in America has made the concept of a "master" quite negative. In the context of employment, a promotion to "manager" is a good thing. And yet, if we're honest, as sinners we're never satisfied with "managing." We want to be "masters." This week we'll hear Jesus teach us about our role in God's Kingdom as he tells us a parable about The Master And His Manger.2020-08-0916 minGod's Word in Our LivesSheep, Judge Your Shepherds!Generally in Scripture, when we're described as "sheep" it's not the most flattering picture. The good news is we have the Son of God to serve as our Good Shepherd. That said, what happens when sheep on this earth are led by "bad" shepherds? This week, we'll wrestle with Jesus' insistence that the sheep judge their shepherds.2020-08-0323 minGod's Word in Our LivesA Cost-Benefit AnalysisHave you ever been a part of a cost-benefit analysis? Maybe your line of work makes such an analysis necessary. Maybe not. Either way, I bet you do this just about every day. Have you ever asked the question, “Is it worth it?” How about, “Is this really worth my time?” If so, you’ve done a cost-benefit analysis! Today, our Scripture lessons will walk us through a Christian cost-benefit analysis.2020-07-2816 minGod's Word in Our LivesWhat do you see in Abra(ha)m?When you look at Abra(ha)m, what do you see? Do you see a man who lives the way you should live? Do you see mainly what Abraham does for God or for others? Do you see what God does for Abraham? What you see when you focus on Abraham, or any other human found in the narrative of God’s Word, will often be reflected in what you see when you look at yourself. This weekend we’ll focus on what it takes to be righteous before God.2020-07-1920 minGod's Word in Our LivesAt Your Command, I Work (whole service)It doesn't matter what your "line of work" is, as Christians, we work. That said, people who aren't Christians work too. So what's the difference? What's the difference between a Christian worker and a worker who's not a Christian? This week, we'll see that difference as we dig into Luke chapter 5:1-11.2020-07-1246 minGod's Word in Our LivesAt Your Command, I Work (sermon only)It doesn't matter what your "line of work" is, as Christians, we work. That said, people who aren't Christians work too. So what's the difference? What's the difference between a Christian worker and a worker who's not a Christian? This week, we'll see that difference as we dig into Luke chapter 5:1-11.2020-07-1220 minGod's Word in Our Lives"Be Merciful"What comes to mind when you think of "mercy?" In the Gospel lesson for this weekend we're told to "Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful." I suppose that means we should get our definition of mercy by looking at how God the Father treats us. How does the Father treat us? We deserve hell for our sins. The Father sends his Son to rescue us. Instead of hell, the Father gives us his kingdom--Heaven itself! That's mercy. This week we'll consider the mercy expected of those shown mercy. 2020-07-0615 minGod's Word in Our LivesJesus Seeks The Lost“Though we easily forget our own sins, we sternly censor the sins of others. As insignificant as we generally regard sin, so easily do we refuse to forgive certain sinners.” Those words are the opening lines of a sermon on this week's Gospel Lesson by a pastor named CFW Walther preached around the year 1850. They set the tone well. This week we consider how easy it is for us to elevate ourselves above others—to place ourselves on a pedestal above even just one other person. The danger in such an attitude is seen when I start to think someon...2020-06-2819 minGod's Word in Our LivesThe Greatest Love StoryThe greatest love story every told, motivates great love in us. This is especially true as you listen to this greatest of all love stories, and begin to realize you’re the one who is loved! This week, we’ll be reminded that the Word of God is the greatest love story ever told. It’s a story that motivates remarkable love in those who believe it. 2020-06-1225 minGod's Word in Our LivesThe Holy TrinityAbsolutes are out in our culture. To stand up and say, "This is absolutely, undeniably true" is often viewed as the highest form of arrogance. It doesn't even matter what "this" is. Our culture has rejected the idea of absolute truth.This week, in John chapter 3, we hear Jesus teach us a much needed lesson about absolute truth.2020-06-0723 minGod's Word in Our LivesChurch LaunchWhat does a word used to put a boat into water and a rocket into space have to do with God's Church? We'll discuss that this week!2020-06-0216 minGod's Word in Our LivesWe Are His Witnesses!This week's sermon was preached as we celebrated Christ's Ascension! Take a listen!2020-05-2619 minGod's Word in Our LivesJesus Came From The Father. So Pray!Did Jesus come from the Father? Yes or no? Either he did or he did not. There can be no middle ground. If he did, Jesus is the Savior we need. If he did not, he's a fraud! If he did, you and I have the privilege of prayer at our disposal every moment of every day! If he did, not we could never approach the creator and judge of all. This week, we discuss a major theme in John's Gospel - Jesus came from the Father! That means everything for our eternity, not to mention our prayer life.2020-05-1822 minGod's Word in Our Lives"...It Is For Your Good."Do you know anyone who likes to hear the phrase "It's for your own good?" I'm guessing you don't! This week we hear Jesus tell his disciples he's leaving them, and it's for their own good! That might sound strange at first, but it couldn't be more true. Join us to dig into this awesome portion of John chapter 16.2020-05-1119 minGod's Word in Our Lives"He Lives To Hear My Soul's Complaint"Is complaining compatible with Christianity? We'll discuss that this week as we dig in to a beautiful section of an Old Testament book you may not be very familiar with - Lamentations. Join us!2020-05-0422 minGod's Word in Our LivesOne Flock. One Shepherd.We live in a divisive time. It seems like there are so many flocks and so many shepherds. Some say go this way. Other's say go that way. One flock and one shepherd sounds good right about now. This week, we dig into Jesus' words of comfort that promise a time when there will be one flock and one shepherd!2020-04-2714 minGod's Word in Our LivesPeace be with you!The word “peace” is not found in Psalm 23. And yet, you can tell, King David was at peace when he says, “The Lord is my shepherd...” A shepherd who brings that kind of peace is a good shepherd. But a dead shepherd wouldn’t do anyone any good. That’s why Easter is such good news! Jesus is not a dead shepherd. The Shepherd lives! This weekend we’ll look at the peace the Living Shepherd offers to us.2020-04-2018 minGod's Word in Our LivesForgiveness Has Risen From The Grave!John Chrysostom lived from 349 AD to 407 AD. He was as leader in the Christian church of his day. In an Easter sermon preached around the year 400, he said, “Let no one mourn that he has fallen again and again; for forgiveness has risen from the grave.” Forgiveness has risen from the grave! What a beautiful thought. As sinful human beings, we’re good at convincing ourselves that we must suffer the pangs of guilt. As if this pain we experience as the result of our sins will somehow please God. This morning, we see that concept shattered! Jesus has risen...2020-04-1216 minGod's Word in Our Lives"It is finished"On Good Friday, we celebrate a death. Yes, crazy as that sounds, we celebrate a death! Lord's blessings on your Good Friday celebration.2020-04-1013 minGod's Word in Our Lives"This is my body" "This is my blood"Simple, clear words. "This is my body." "This is my blood." Words that give us assurance of Jesus' presence with us. Words that assure us the price for the world's sin, certainly yours and mine, has been paid in full!2020-04-1020 minGod's Word in Our LivesA Eulogy For JesusEulogies are expected at funerals in our culture. When you attend a funeral you expect to hear "good words" about the person who has died. That's what the word eulogy means - "good word." This week we focus the good words that were being spoken about Jesus on Palm Sunday!2020-04-0614 minGod's Word in Our Lives"If anyone keeps my word, he will never see death." - JesusWhat a statement! What does it mean? What does it not mean? We'll discuss this and more on this week's episode! We'll focus on John 8:46-59.2020-03-2922 minGod's Word in Our LivesJesus Is All You Need!Jesus is accused of driving out demons by the power of Satan! His response is fascinating. Jesus is all you need.2020-03-2623 min