Military Devotions

Military Devotion – Sown and Planted – July 10, 2026

2026/07/10/in Military Devotions

Based on Isaiah 55:10-11

Sown and Planted

When I visited the Republic of Korea last month, I met with Jim Brandt and his wife Kathy. They live in Thailand and are part of the Asia-Oceania Team. Part of their responsibilities are to plant house churches. Jim mentors and coaches over 700 groups who gather around Word and Sacrament in the Asia-Oceania region. That’s incredible! Over 700 groups of people who want to grow in the promises of Jesus and who are going out with those promises of Jesus.

It’s incredible because this is how God first planted faith in your heart. For some of you, it was at your baptism. Through water and his Word, the Holy Spirit planted the seed of faith in your heart so that you believe Jesus has saved you from death, from sin, from the devil, and has saved you for eternal life. For others, it was a friend, family member or stranger who shared the good news of Jesus with you. Through that Word the Holy Spirit planted the seed in your heart.

What does all of this have to do with WELS Ministry to the Military? Sometimes military members retire and stay in the area of their last duty station. That is true for at least one individual right here in the Republic of Korea. He will retire this year and remain here. He is already being trained through the Friends Network. He is already working with Great Light Lutheran Church in Seoul. He wants to sow the seed of the gospel among fellow US service members and the ROK Army Soldiers.

I am not saying that you need to up and move to Asia to do this work. God has put you right where you are for a very specific purpose. Plant the seed of the gospel wherever God has planted you. Whether that’s in the barracks, on base housing or off base/post housing, at the range, in the schoolhouse or downrange – grow in that life-giving and life-sustaining Word that has been planted in you. And then go. Go and plant the seed of the gospel and let God do the work.

Listen to God’s promise through Isaiah: “As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for eater, so is my Word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it” (Isaiah 55:10-11) .

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, I pray for all our military service members and their families. You often plant them in unique settings where civilians cannot go. Send your Holy Spirit to them through your Word and Sacrament. Cause them to be firmly planted in your promises. Then make them faithful planters of your seed. Cause it to grow according to your good purpose. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – The Nation – July 3, 2026

2026/07/03/in Military Devotions

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Based on Psalm 33:12

The Nation

When my wife and I traveled to the Republic of Korea last month we toured the DMZ. On that tour we had the privilege of meeting a man who had served in the North Korean Army for 10 years. He eventually escaped and defected, making his way to South Korea. He explained the deplorable living conditions and the oppressive nature of the North Korean government. But to see the joy on his face as he described the freedoms he now enjoyed living in South Korea – a free man!

That freedom he enjoys here in South Korea are because of brave men from our United States military that fought for that freedom. That sacrifice by our US military is not lost in the hearts of South Koreans.

This is the way it has always been in these United States of America. There have always been brave men and women who have been willing to stand up and fight for independence and freedom. And 250 years later, here we are.

This weekend I’d like to challenge you. First, find a copy of the Declaration of Independence. Read it out loud. It will only take you five minutes. If you have additional 40 minutes, I’d encourage you to find a copy of the US Constitution and the Bill of Rights and read them out loud. As you do, pause and think about how the Lord of creation, the Lord of lords and King of kings directs the affairs of the nations, even this one, so that we are where we are right now, in this place in history.

The second thing I’m asking you to do is to read Psalm 33. I’ll focus on verse twelve: “Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he chose for his inheritance.”

Some will look at this passage and say that we as Christians need to make this nation into a Christian nation. That would be incorrect. When we read Scripture we hear God tell us that we are Christians who happen to live here, in the United States of America.

The nation that God speaks of in Psalm 33 is you. You are the nation of God. You are the people of God. You are citizens of his kingdom, bought with his blood, purchased and won by him, and brought into his kingdom. You are the inheritance he has chosen. And just happen to live in this awesome nation where we enjoy all of these freedoms.

That’s who you are. You are the nation of God. You belong to an eternal nation won by the victory of Christ. You are his inheritance.

Let’s celebrate the nation, THE nation, God’s kingdom, in which we live, while we celebrate the 250 years of the United States of America.

Prayer:

Lord of the nations, we bow before you in humility as we celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday. Because of your providence and grace the United States of America is a place where your people may live in peace and proclaim your truths publicly without fear of retribution. Grant your wisdom to our leaders so that your Church may flourish and we may carry out our individual vocations with joy. In your name we pray it. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – Forgiven Fathers – June 19, 2026

2026/06/19/in Military Devotions

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Based on Matthew 10:32-33

Forgiven Fathers

Since this Sunday is Father’s Day, I’d like to say happy Father’s Day to the men who have the privilege of serving the vocations of both father and war fighter. Happy Father’s Day also to those men who serve as the supportive spouse to their wives who serve in our nation’s military.

And since it’s Father’s Day, I’d like to share a little bit about my father. At his confirmation he was given Matthew 10:32-33 as his confirmation verse. Here Jesus says, “Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge him before my Father in heaven” (Matthew 10:32). I have to say that my father embodies those words from Jesus. He is not shy when it comes to sharing Jesus with complete strangers and often ends the conversation with an invitation to church.

But then Jesus follows up by saying, “Whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven” (Matthew 10:33). I can also say this about my father: he hasn’t always been faithful in carrying out the will of his Father in heaven. He is a sinner. As a father of five children, I know that I have not always been the faithful father. My dad, and my wife and kiddos could point out where I have failed as a father. I know that I am a sinner, too.

How often have we as fathers failed to say the loving thing even when it hurts, to point out sinful attitudes of our spouse or children, so that they repent, confess and admit their sin, and then hear Jesus’ absolution from our lips, “You are forgiven!” That doesn’t happen often enough in our home. What about yours? Yes, fathers are imperfect – your father, this father, and those of you who serve in the vocation of father.

But what Jesus says about me and my dad to his Father in heaven is this: “These two, Paul and Fritz, they belong here with us, the Father and the Son.” He says that about you, too, fathers. And you sons and daughters, say this to your fathers this Father’s Day, “You belong to Jesus and to his Father.” For God loved the world in this way: he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

This Father’s Day, point your father to Jesus, the one who obeyed his Father’s will perfectly for your father. And for you, fathers, know and believe that Jesus acknowledges you before his Father in heaven as one who is forgiven, as one who is a son of the Father in heaven, adopted into his family through the waters of holy baptism.

Go and be a faithful, forgiven, father. Go and forgive fathers, just as your Father has forgiven and loved you.

Prayer:

Gracious God our Father, grant people everywhere the blessing of a loving father at home. In homes where fathers have neglected their duties or have been absent, help the children to persevere and to find in your Word their ideal for parenthood. Direct us to honor, love and respect our earthly fathers. Keep your children in the one true faith in Jesus so that families may spend eternity together in heaven. In your Son, Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – Relieved of Duty, Not Relieved of Grace – June 12, 2026

2026/06/12/in Military Devotions

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Based on Numbers 27:15-23

Relieved of Duty, Not Relieved of Grace

“Because of your insubordination I am relieving you of command.”

Those are words that no one wants to hear, and yet these are the very words the Lord spoke to his servant leader Moses. Moses had led the nation of Israel out of Egypt, through the wilderness for 40 years and was about to lead the people into the Promised Land. But God stopped him short. The reason? “You disobeyed my command to honor me as holy before their eyes” (Numbers 27:14).

God led Moses to the top of a mountain so he could see the Promised Land and then he died and God buried him.

I’m certain you know someone who has been relieved of duty, lost command, demoted, received a reduction in rank because of a violation of policy, poor performance, or loss of confidence in their ability to lead. Maybe that’s you. And like Moses, there are reminders of that failure always before you. How does that make you feel? Worthless? Full of regret? Full of guilt? You are not alone.

Before Moses died, the LORD commanded him to lay his hands on his successor and commission him to lead. And he led well. His name? Joshua. In the Hebrew Yeshua. In the Greek language Jesus: a name that means – the one who saves. Yes, God provided another leader to shepherd his people – a picture of what the perfect Good Shepherd would one day do for Moses. God’s imperfect servant leader could cling to the promise of the perfect servant leader and know his sins were forgiven. Moses could die in peace knowing his God had made all things right.

Whatever it is you failed to do in your job, whatever consequences you suffered for it, believe this: Jesus was and is the perfect leader, and the perfect subordinate, the perfect servant of all, the perfect shepherd for all, and that includes you and me.

As shepherd he looks at people like you and me, and doesn’t shake his head, groan and say, “Not again!” Instead, he looks on you and me with compassion. His heart goes out to us, because he sees people, sinners, sheep who need a shepherd, and he comes to you and to me and offers his holy, perfect, selfless, sacrificial life and says, “Here, this is yours. You are righteous in my sight.”

Whatever God has called you to do right now, go and do it. Go with confidence. Believe that your sin is covered by Jesus. Go with confidence knowing that Jesus goes before you as a shepherd leads his sheep.

Prayer:

This weekend as the US Army celebrates its 251st birthday we pause to thank you for this branch of our armed forces that has stood ready to protect our nation and its people and defend its values. Raise up more men and women willing to serve with loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and personal courage. Through the sacrifice of our US Army may we continue to enjoy and practice the freedoms of this great country. In your name, Lord Jesus, I pray it. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – No Sin Too Great for Grace – June 5, 2026

2026/06/05/in Military Devotions

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Based on 1 Timothy 1:15-16

No Sin Too Great for Grace

There are some interesting characters in the Bible. There is a man who killed another man in a fit of anger. Later he made excuses and tried to wiggle his way out of God’s call to lead his nation of Israel. You might know him as Moses. Another man absolutely ravaged Christ’s church, torturing and murdering Christians. He called himself the chief of sinners. You might know him as the Apostle Paul. Another man worked for a government that was godless, pagan, hedonistic, collecting taxes for that government from his own Jewish people. You might know him as Matthew.

I don’t know what you’ve done in your lifetime, serving our nation’s military, or as a military spouse, or military brat, a government contractor – I don’t know everything, but I do know a few things, because some of you have shared those things with me. I know that you and I are very similar, and that we have a lot in common with Moses, Paul, and Matthew. We are sinners, with a strong natural inclination to do to the things we want to do, ignoring the things our holy, loving God wants us to do.

I know this about me and about you, but I also know what kind of God you and I have. The same kind of God who showed grace and patience with Moses. The same kind of God who forgave Paul and called him to be an apostle in his Church. The same kind of God who called Matthew to follow him and ate and drank with all of Matthew’s tax collector buddies. No matter how great you think or believe your sin to be, it is not so great that it is beyond the reach of God’s grace. The price tag for your sin is not so costly that Jesus’ blood could not pay for it.

Listen to these words from a man who knew the enormity of sin and who rested in the greater enormity of God’s grace for him:

“Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life” (1 Timothy 1:15-16).

My friend, rest in the greatness of Jesus’ love, his sacrifice, his payment for your sin. Nothing is beyond his ability to forgive. You are forgiven. You are loved.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, when guilt weighs heavily on our hearts, remind us that your grace is greater than our sin. As you showed mercy to Moses, Paul, and Matthew show mercy to us also. Forgive our failures. Help us rest in your perfect sacrifice for us. Lead us to trust fully in your love and to live confidently as your forgiven children. To you be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – Commissioned – May 29, 2026

2026/05/29/in Military Devotions

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Based on Matthew 28:16-20

Commissioned

Whether you are an officer or enlisted the Triune God has commissioned you for a very important task: Go and make disciples of all nations. That’s a tall order. But he also gives you the tools to do it: by baptizing…. and by teaching. Your commander-in-chief promises you, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (Matthew 28:18). Jesus has all authority. After all, he is the one who died and came back to life from the dead. He gives you the authority to carry out this commission.

He also promises, “I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20).

This is especially important to take to heart, considering the context of your calling. The military culture and community is not always friendly to people like you and me. They are not always receptive to Jesus’ words. Some can be a little rough around the edges. Not all of your coworkers and neighbors have the same religious foundation. Some make questionable moral decisions. Others are hurting because they are wracked with guilt. Some are hurting because of trauma or abuse or moral injury. They are no different from you or me.

They are sinners who need forgiveness, like you and me. They are sinners who will one day die, like you and me. Like us, they need to know they have a Father who loves them so much, he planned the salvation of their body and soul from before the creation of the world. They need to know they have a brother who loves them so much, he took on human flesh to carry out the Father’s plan of salvation. They have a brother who lived to earn righteousness for them, just as he did for you. They have a brother who died to earn forgiveness them, just as he did for you. They have a brother who rose from the dead to win a resurrection from the grave for them, just as he did for you.

Like us, they need to know the wonderful blessings of baptism: this water is God’s pledge that our conscience is clear because he washed us, cleansed us, and clothed us with Christ.

You know these truths. You believe them. Now, confess them boldly, with courage, with love and patient instruction. You have been commissioned for this task.

Jesus will be with you.

Prayer:

Holy Trinity – Father, Son and Holy Spirit – you call us to go forth and preach the gospel to all who are in need. Open a door for us this week in conversation with a friend, relative or neighbor so that we might first listen, and seek to understand and then open our lips to point them to your promises. Grant us courage and love to pour out your life-giving water to thirsty souls. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – Remember the Fallen with Resurrection Hope – May 22, 2026

2026/05/22/in Military Devotions

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Based on Acts 2:21

Remember the Fallen with Resurrection Hope

Last month I was in our nation’s capital, and I took some time to walk around the National Mall. When I reached the Vietnam Veterans memorial, I walked around the statue of the three service members. As I stood behind the statues, I noticed that their gaze is fixed on the black granite wall upon which are etched the names of their fallen comrades in arms. Just then a group of men in wheelchairs rolled up. They were a group of Vietnam veterans on their Honor Flight. Some took pictures. Others just sat there with their hands folded, remembering…

This made me think ahead to this weekend. On Memorial Day weekend we remember those who have died in service to our country. But we do not grieve the dead the way that the rest of the world grieves because we have hope. We know that Christ is risen and that he lives. Those who died while serving our country and died clinging in the risen Lord Jesus, they also live!

The apostle Peter quoted the prophet Joel in his Pentecost Day sermon in Acts chapter 2 and he said this: “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Acts 2:21).

My prayer for you is that when you take time to remember this weekend – whether you do that on Monday at 3:00 PM local time, the National Moment of Remembrance, or you do that by sticking a flag in your yard, or hanging it on your garage, or laying a wreath on a tombstone – my prayer is that your soul is comforted with Jesus’ resurrection promise that “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

Jesus promised the one who was crucified with him, “Today you will be with me in paradise.” This promise confirms that those who died in service to our country clinging to Jesus as their Savior – their souls are with Jesus right now in heaven. I pray that you are comforted with the knowledge that because Christ’s tomb is empty that one day their tombs and their urns will be empty, too. Their bodies will rise from the dead and they will live forever remember. The one who died and rose again never to die again did so, so that those who call on his name will never die and that includes you.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, as we remember those who gave their lives in service to our nation, comfort hearts that still carry grief and loss. Remind us that death is not the end of those who call on your name. Because you died and rose again, your people have the sure hope of eternal life. Strengthen those who remember the fallen with the promise of your empty tomb. Lord, through the blood and sacrifice of those who have perished you continue to bless our nation with freedoms, most notably, the freedom to proclaim your truths. Prevent further shedding of blood. Grant us peace so that your Word flourishes among the citizens of this great country. In your name I pray. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – Who’s in charge here? – May 15, 2026

2026/05/15/in Military Devotions

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Based on Ephesians 1:15-23

Who’s in charge here?

I don’t know how many movies and TV shows that I’ve watched where there was some military situation and someone bursts through the door or storms onto a battlefield and demands, “Who’s in charge here?!” It’s almost laughable because all that individual would need to do is to look at the rank on the uniform of the war fighters that are standing right in front of them and they would know that this guy or this gal is in charge. But that’s Hollywood.

We ask this question in our own lives, don’t we? Deployed war fighters have reached out to me and asked, “Chaplain Horn, could you please pray for peace, wisdom for our leaders to make good decisions, for an end to this conflict, and strength for us because we’re awfully tired. We’ve been going nonstop since we got out here.” They’re not complaining. They’re just saying, “Here’s where we’re at and really… who is in charge here because there doesn’t seem to be an end to this.”

You don’t have to be deployed to ask that question. We look at rising gas prices, the economic struggle that many of us face, the uncertainty with all of the things going on in our life and we even ask God this question, too, “Like who’s in charge here?”

This past Thursday the Christian Church celebrated the Festival of the Ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ. Christ’s ascension answers our question, “Who’s in charge here?”

The apostle Paul talks about this in his letter to the Ephesians. In chapter one he offers this prayer on behalf of the Christians in Ephesus and says that he wants the eyes of their hearts to be enlightened so that they see the power of God for us who believe (Ephesians 1:18-19). And then he explains that power, “That power is the same as the mighty strength he asserted when he raised Christ from the dead” (Ephesians 1:19-20). No one else has that kind of power – not President Trump, not Putin, no one in this world has that kind of power to raise someone from the dead. Only God does. Paul says, “I want you to know that power.”

And not only did he raise Christ from the dead but then he goes on to say this: “and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms” (Ephesians 1:20). God raised Christ from the dead. Forty days later he ascends into heaven – not to be distant from us. Not to abandon us. Not to make us wonder, “Who’s in charge here?” But to answer that question. Paul says, “He is there far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church” (Ephesians 1:21-22). Jesus ascended into heaven to rule and reign over all things. Even when it looks like he’s not reigning, even when we wonder, “Who is in charge here?” Jesus ascended into heaven to prove to us that he has all rule and power and authority, yes even over death and the grave, over your sin, over war, over all things – and to rule for your benefit because you are his church.

Praise God that Jesus is ascended into heaven. Praise God that he is ruling and reigning for your benefit. Believe it. Trust it. Let’s pray about it.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, King of glory, you ascended far above the heavens, and at God’s right hand you rule the nations. Leave us not alone, we pray, but grant us the Spirit of truth that, at your command and by your power, we may be your witnesses in all the world. Be present with our nation’s war fighters who are deployed. Remind them of your almighty power at work for their eternal benefit so they may be at peace no matter what their circumstances. In your name I pray. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – You Need Help – May 8, 2026

2026/05/08/in Military Devotions

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Based on John 14:15-21

You Need Help

Deployments come, schedules shift constantly, uncertainty hangs in the air—who holds things together? Who carries the weight at home? Who steadies the children, manages the household, bears the worry? Military spouses do.

You live a life of quiet sacrifice. Of constant adjustment. Of strength that often goes unseen. You step in again and again to help your family endure and thrive under pressure. And that matters. It reflects something deeper. Because every act of patient love, every moment of selfless service, every quiet sacrifice—points to the greater help we all need. Even the strongest mother cannot carry everything. Even the most faithful spouse needs support. Because no matter how capable, how resilient, how determined—we all come back to the same truth: You and I, we need help.

And that’s where Jesus’ promise meets us all— single or married, mothers, fathers, children, war fighters, civilians. He promises help.

Before Jesus goes to the cross and rises from the dead and the ascends into heaven, he reminds his disciples, and us, “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever—the Spirit of truth . . . I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you” (John 14:16-17a, 18).

Jesus gives the Holy Spirit to all of us, to you. To remind you that your strength isn’t what saves you. Christ is. To remind you that all of the guilt you carry for not doing enough, it isn’t enough to save you, but Christ is. To remind you that peace isn’t found when the bills are paid on time, the kids are well behaved, the yard is mowed and you found quiet time for yourself with a glass of wine and Netflix – peace is found in Christ, his forgiveness for you, his life for you, his resurrection for you. Peace is found in the truth that your eternal home is secure, no matter what a hot mess your house looks like today.

You – you and I – we need help, and Jesus gives it, by sending his Holy Spirit to you.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, in his incarnation your Son took on our human flesh and was born of the Virgin Mary. He submitted to his mother, honoring and obeying her, so fulfilling the commandment where we have not. On this Mother’s Day, graciously accept our thanksgiving for our mothers, whom you have given to us. Teach us to honor them aright — loving, obeying and giving thanks for them. Strengthen all women with child and give them safe delivery. Comfort all women who long to have children but cannot, that they may find their consolation in you and your unfailing love. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – The Only Way In – May 1, 2026

2026/05/01/in Military Devotions

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Based on John 14:6

The Only Way In

Last week I had a meeting at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. Someone asked me, “How were you able to get into the Pentagon for a meeting?” I had to have someone vouch for me. Someone set up the visitor background security form for me to fill out. Someone else had to agree to serve as my escort once I passed through security in the building. There was only one way into the Pentagon and that was through someone else.

As I reflected on this, I was reminded of the words of Jesus, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). It’s one thing to gain access to a highly secure military building for a meeting, but it’s quite another thing to gain access to a holy God and to live in his presence and peace for all eternity. Jesus says that he is the only way in.

I still struggle with conversations I have with friends, neighbors and complete strangers who firmly believe that there cannot be just one way to eternal life after death. I hear things like, “All religions basically are leading to the same place, aren’t they? They all want to get you to the same place. It’s just different ways of getting there.”

Look at the major religions of the world – let’s look at Islam and Christianity. Both claim to be exclusive. Both claim to be the only way. One is very clear – you must follow the five pillars, the teachings and practices, to the best of your ability, and perhaps Allah will have mercy on you when you die. There isn’t much certainty or hope, but it is the only way.

Christianity also claims exclusivity. But when we listen to Jesus’ words, he says that the only way to the Father is through him, to believe in him as the truth and the life. He is exclusive, but he is also inclusive, for he says that this is for all who believe and trust in him. Both Islam and Christianity can’t be right. Both can’t be exclusive. It must be one or the other.

Even as Christians we struggle with exclusivity, that salvation is only through faith in Christ. The reason for this is that we are all naturally predisposed to this belief that we must contribute something, to add our faithfulness, our goodness, the way we treat others with love and respect – these must count for something and help sway God’s judgment in our favor.

Jesus’ words toss all of our efforts and striving into the trash. He says to us, “These don’t count, and they cannot count for anything toward your eternity. It must be through me and me alone. I am the only one who has lived a perfectly faithful life, the perfectly good life, perfectly loving in the way I treated others, and that counts for all. That is the free gift for all, my gift to you.”

And to prove that Jesus’ way is the only way? He rose from the dead. He gets the final say. And thank God! Jesus lives to be the only way to heaven for you. Believe it. Trust it.

Prayer:

O God, you form the minds of your faithful people into a single will. Make us love what you command and desire what you promise, that among the many changes of this world, our hearts may ever yearn for the lasting joys of heaven. Be with all ROTC students who will be taking final second semester exams this week. Grant them wisdom, knowledge, and recall of content, so that through their studies you might form faithful leaders in the officer corps of our armed forces. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – Walk the Darkest Valley with Your Shepherd – April 24, 2026

2026/04/24/in Military Devotions

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Based on Psalm 23

Walk the Darkest Valley with Your Shepherd

There is a canyon less than 50 yards from our front door. Before you enter the canyon, a sign explains that area was once known as Camp Elliott and served as a training area for artillery during WWII. At the bottom of the sign there is a warning: “Salvage work has been done to remove unexploded shells, but it is possible that due to natural erosion, shells could surface. If you should discover any, do not touch it!”

It is possible that there are unexploded shells in this canyon… In the early 80s some people found one, picked it up and it killed them. Did I also mention that there are coyotes and tarantulas, scorpions and rattlesnakes, and ticks in this canyon?

Every time I walk this canyon I am reminded of King David’s words in Psalm 23, “Even though I walk through the darkest valley . . .” (Psalm 23:4). This canyon is a picture of my life. Seen and unseen dangers are waiting to afflict my body and soul, my property and reputation. What about you?

Life in our nation’s military is like walking through the darkest valley – not just when you’re downrange or underway, not just when you’re at NTC or some other training – but the devil is always waiting to afflict you with spiritual harm. Death and grave are always lurking.

Then King David says in the psalm, “I will fear no evil, for you are with me” (Psalm 23:4). Who is the “you” to whom David refers? You probably know the answer, “The LORD, who is my shepherd, who leads me, guides me, who restores my soul, who laid down his life for mine, only to take it up again, so that he might live and be with me, who will make sure that I dwell in his house forever.”

This canyon not only reminds me that I walk through the darkest valley, but that Jesus is my Good Shepherd, because the name of the canyon is East Shepherd Canyon. If you visit San Diego, stop by and we’ll walk Shepherd Canyon together and talk about Jesus and how he makes sure we lack no good thing because he is our Good Shepherd. Until that day, I encourage you to read Psalm 23 today and then read John chapter 10 and know that Jesus your Shepherd walks with you through the darkest valleys.

Prayer:

O Lord Jesus Christ, you are the Good Shepherd who laid down your life for the sheep. Lead us now to the still waters of your life-giving Word that we may abide in your Father’s house forevermore. Walk with all who are deployed, all who are in basic training, those who are in their different schools of training – be their guide. Restore them when days are difficult. Lead them to the green pastures of your Word through faithful chaplains and pastors and Christian friends. We ask this in your name, Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – Walking with Jesus’ Promises – April 17, 2026

2026/04/17/in Military Devotions

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Based on Luke 24:13-35

Walking with Jesus’ Promises

“This is not what I thought it would be.” I’m not sure what the Navy recruiter told him, or what he expected life in the Navy to be, or what he chose to hear from his recruiter, what his friends or family said, but after two years in, this is not what he expected. I can see you smiling as you listen to this devotion – because you know. After a PCS, a deployment, a school, the transition from active to civilian – you heard all sorts of things, but until you get there, it can be a different experience. And you may find yourself saying, “This is not what I thought it would be.” There are all kinds of struggles – both emotional and spiritual – that go along with it.

You’re not alone. This is nothing new, especially for God’s people. That first Easter evening, two of Jesus’ disciples began their slow walk from Jerusalem to a village called Emmaus. Jesus sidles up to them on their walk and joins their conversation. He plays dumb when they share the news about their teacher, Jesus from Nazareth whom they had hoped was the Messiah, the Christ, was now dead. And there were rumors about a resurrection. They said, “He wasn’t what we thought he would be.”

Starting with Scripture Jesus began to teach them what the Holy Spirit had said about him all along, to correct their misconceptions about the Messiah.

When you find yourself in those life situations that force you to say, “This is not what I thought it would be,” the soul asks of God, “Didn’t you say something about this? Why aren’t you doing what you said you would do?”

Sometimes like those two disciples we believe things about God that aren’t true. For example, have you ever said this or had someone say this to you, “God helps those who help themselves.” It can be used in a situation where you’ve made some questionable decisions and in order to free yourself from more dire consequences you are encouraged to put some effort forward and then God will help you the rest of the way. Nowhere in Scripture does God promise this to you.

In fact, the opposite is true. The Bible says, “When we were still powerless… while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:6,8). When we are completely helpless, when we say things like, “This is not what I expected,” Jesus sidles up to us and with his words says, “Here is what I have promised you. First, that I died for you. So, for all those times you’ve pegged me for things I haven’t promised you, I forgive you for that. I rose from the dead so that you may know that all the promises I made in the Bible, they will happen. I will keep them, just for you. And this one that you struggle with, “God helps those who help themselves,” I have promised you, “God helps the helpless. God is the strength of the weak. God will give glory and relief after you suffer the crosses you must carry. God loves you.”

My friends, keep walking with Jesus, so that you know what he has promised. Cling to what he has promised.

Prayer:

O God, by the humiliation of your Son, you lifted up this fallen world from the despair of death. By his resurrection to life, grant your faithful people gladness of heart and the hope of eternal joys. Grant hope to those who struggle to see your Almighty guiding hand in the current conflicts of the world. Grant wisdom to our leaders so that there may be peaceful resolutions in the Middle East. We ask this in the name of your Son, our Risen and living Savior. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – Hope because He Lives – April 10, 2026

2026/04/10/in Military Devotions

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Based on 1 Peter 1:3-9

Hope because He Lives

At 0430 the first boom sounded over the water. Over 4,000 booms would be heard the next 34 hours over Charleston Harbor as confederate artillery rounds pounded Fort Sumter on this date, April 12, 1861. Four years later almost three quarters of a million people lost their lives. Can you imagine the entire population of Denver, CO perishing within four years?

I won’t enumerate the numbers of American lives lost in wars, conflicts and terrorist attacks since then. As I reflect on this and the lives lost in the current conflict in the Middle East I am reminded of Jesus’ words, “There will be wars and rumors of wars until the day I come back to earth.” This can lead to a spirit of despair, thoughts of inevitability – there will always be a need for armed forces. We will always need brave men and women to raise their right hand and say, “I will prepare for war and go to war if need be.” I will always be thankful for you and at the same time I will be sad that we need military at all. I will pray for peace, but Jesus says there will be war. I will pray that lives are spared, but people will die as they always have. That makes some wonder, “Could I die that way, in war, in combat, even as a civilian, could it happen I die because of collateral damage?” Sometimes life feels hopeless.

You and I need to look at our hopeless situation, the world situation, through Jesus’ words as he speaks through Apostle Peter, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (1 Peter 1:3). Hope. Not so much a “I really hope my paperwork goes through today”, but a “I hope, I know for certain this thing that God my Father promised me will happen.”

The sure and certain thing? Jesus died. Jesus rose from the dead. Jesus lives today, in a very real, physical way. Your sure and certain reality, your living hope, is this: no matter how you die, and you will someday, I will die someday, because Jesus lives, we, too shall live. We have a resurrection from the dead. Peter describes it this way, “. . . This inheritance is kept in heaven for you” (1 Peter 1:4). You have an inheritance because someone died. Jesus died. But he came back to life and lives so that you might know and believe with living hope: this resurrection from the dead is yours right now, kept in a safe place, safer than the Fort Knox depository, and not even civil war, not even WWIII, not even death can take it from you. That is the hope you have because a dead man came back to life and lives for you.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, in a world of wars and rumors of wars, we confess our hearts grow heavy with despair. Yet you have raised Jesus from the dead, and in him you have secured for us a living hope — an inheritance no grave can snatch away. We give you thanks for those who serve in our nation’s military, who stand watch so others may sleep in peace. Sustain them in body and soul. Remind all of us that because Jesus lives, we too shall live. In his victorious name we pray. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – Because He Lives – April 3, 2026

2026/04/03/in Military Devotions

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Based on Matthew 28:1-10

Because He Lives

A gold star on purple backdrop, an inverted rifle planted in combat boots, topped by a helmet and draped with dog tags, a casket, an urn, a field of white marble headstones – all reminders of our mortality. These objects and symbols evoke a cloud of emotions: for some grief and sadness, for others loneliness, anger, resentment, and sometimes they are prompted to ask God, “Why?”

For friends and family of a man named Jesus from Nazareth, the objects that brought about these emotions were a wooden cross, the soldier’s hammer and nails, his spear. Is it possible that every time they witnessed a public execution on a cross those feelings of loss, horror, sadness and grief filled their hearts? Every time they saw a Roman soldier at his post or on patrol brought feelings of resentment and anger? As they walked the paths of Palestine to pluck figs or gather grapes and their hands were pricked by thorns from a shrub, they would see their own blood and shudder?

But something helped them manage and cope with those feelings, something helped to redirect their thoughts to the truth that gave these objects and symbols new meaning. Those “somethings” that helped were an empty tomb, the familiar voice of that man who had died but now lived and said to their attentive ears, “Do not be afraid.” The familiar hands and arms that had embraced them held them now on that first Easter evening. Yes, the body, once a lifeless corpse, was now alive and perfectly healthy and stood before them, spoke with them, ate with them.

My friends, Jesus died, was buried, and came back to life. Because he lives, you, too, shall live. Because he lives, those whom you love shall not remain dead forever but will one day climb out of their coffins and urns, they who died clinging to this one who absolutely destroyed the power of the grave. Because he lives, we can look at a gold star on a purple backdrop, we can see an inverted rifle planted in combat boots, we can walk through the fields of white marble headstones and be sad and grieve and ask the questions but with a new perspective. Because he lives, these, too, shall live. Because he lives, you, too, shall live never to die again.

Prayer:

Almighty God, by the glorious resurrection of your Son, Jesus Christ, you conquered death and opened the gate to eternal life. Grant that we, who have been raised with him through Baptism, may walk in newness of life and ever rejoice in the hope of sharing his glory. Comfort all Gold Star spouses and their children, all who wear the black memorial band around their wrist, any who have stood before the fallen soldier battle cross, all who pass by the white marble rows – comfort them with the reality and power of Easter, because he lives, the dead who die in the Lord shall live, and we with them. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – MAYDAY. MAYDAY. MAYDAY. – March 27, 2026

2026/03/27/in Military Devotions

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Based on Matthew 21:1-11

MAYDAY. MAYDAY. MAYDAY.

The call comes through on VHF Channel 16, “MAYDAY. MAYDAY. MAYDAY.” Help me! The vessel is taking on water. There is a medical emergency. The vessel is on fire. Help me!

When that distress signal comes in, the U.S. Coast Guard gathers the critical information, broadcasts an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast to nearby vessels and then dispatches rescue assets like a boat or helicopter. A rescue swimmer is often a member of the MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew deployed to respond to a distress call.

Last month off the coast of Washington state, Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyler Jaggers was that rescue swimmer, deployed to help a distressed mariner aboard a large vessel. As Coast Guard aircrews and rescue swimmers have done thousands of times before, Tyler put his life in danger so that others may live. Unfortunately, Tyler gave the ultimate sacrifice and died in the line of duty. Someone called out, “Mayday. Help me.” and he responded.

For over 1,000 years God’s people cried out, “Help me.” The word they used wasn’t “Mayday” but “Hosanna”, which means, “Save!” On a Sunday around 30AD people lined the road that led down the Mount of Olives into the city of Jerusalem and issued a distress signal, “Hosanna! Save us!” They were already drowning… in all that they had failed to do right and in all they had done wrong in God’s sight. They needed someone to rescue them and they saw their rescuer. His name was Jesus. He came riding into the city, not on an aircraft or maritime vessel, but on a donkey. He had come to save knowing the dangers to his own life, knowing he would die in this rescue operation, but others would live.

2,000 years later we send that same ancient distress signal on that same radio frequency, “Hosanna! Come and save us!” Jesus answers that call every single time. For all that we have not done and all we have done wrong in God’s sight that makes us feel as if we are drowning in the sorrow over our sins, Jesus comes riding in through his words, “He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross” (Philippians 2:8) to save you. Every single time we issue the Mayday distress signal, “Hosanna in the highest! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” (Matthew 21:9). Jesus comes riding in – in a very real way – through body and blood in bread and wine so that you may live.

When you feel overwhelmed by your sin and guilt, send out the distress signal, “MAYDAY. MAYDAY. MAYDAY.” “Hosanna! Come and save me, Lord Jesus!” and he will respond with free and full forgiveness so that you may live.

Prayer:

Almighty and everlasting God, work in us Godly repentance that humbly and daily confesses our sins and then confidently turns to your Son Jesus, our Savior, so that we might know and believe our sins are indeed forgiven for the sake of his humble obedience and death on a cross. Comfort all who mourn the death of Tyler Jaggers. Send your holy angels to watch over those who serve as rescue swimmers. Protect them so that others may live. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – Beyond the Flag-Draped Case – March 20, 2026

2026/03/20/in Military Devotions

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Based on Romans 8:11-18

Beyond the Flag-Draped Case

It’s not an easy thing to watch the carry team salute the six flagged-draped transfer cases at Dover Air Force Base. It’s even harder to read the stories about those fallen service members. These are men and a woman with families and friends and children who expected to receive them home as they walked off an aircraft, not carried in a coffin.

When a fallen warfighter is escorted home, the ceremony and honor given to the remains of the body reminds everyone that death is real and painful—but it also reflects the promise that their story is not forgotten. The military honors their name, their body, and their future legacy.

God promises even more. “If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you” (Romans 8:11). The same Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead will raise our mortal bodies. That same Spirit lives in you. For you who are baptized into Christ’s name are baptized into Christ and all he has done. If Christ died and his body was raised never to die again, so also you and I will have bodies that will be raised, no longer subject to aging, disease, or the effects of war, but free from the reign of decomposition, bodies which will live indefinitely.

Death does not have the final word.

Paul then reminds us why we do not grieve like the rest of the world, “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us” (Romans 8:18). What is it like? How do we compare it? If you had scales in front of you and placed the weight of suffering and grief on one side of the scale, what would you put in the other that would far outweigh suffering and grief? Paul is saying that the weight of glory is so great that you cannot weigh it. Can you imagine it? Caskets and urns will be opened, and life will be found there where death once reigned. Bodies laid to rest at sea, down in the very depths of the waters, will be raised to live and die no more and God will share his glory with us in heaven for all eternity.

Grieve and be sad. But grieve with hope – the sure certainty that since Christ is certainly raised and lives, those who die in Christ will rise to die no more. Yes, there is life eternal beyond the flag-draped case.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, you know the grief that fills our hearts when death comes close. Comfort all who mourn, especially the families and brothers and sisters in arms who receive loved ones home not as they hoped. Remind us by your Spirit that death does not have the final word. As you were raised from the dead, so you promise that all who are baptized into you will also be raised to life. Strengthen us to grieve with hope, trusting that the glory you have prepared for your people far outweighs every suffering of this present time. Keep us steadfast in this promise until the day you raise the dead and make all things new. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – Welcomed Light – March 13, 2026

2026/03/13/in Military Devotions

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Based on Isaiah 42:16

Welcomed Light

I have a love—hate relationship with light. Some mornings, when that sunlight blasts through the shades of my bedroom window, I’m just not having it. I know the day’s work schedule, the difficult conversations that need to be had, and that light exposes my unwillingness to face the day. On the other hand, I love the light. My travels take me to places around the country where the skies are cloudy and gloomy every single day I’m there! Then I fly home to Southern California – and I admit, we’re a bit spoiled here – and the sunshine is a welcomed light.

This is true for our spiritual life. Light is unwelcomed intruder, like a drill instructor rolling through the barracks exposing contraband, the things that are not supposed to be there. The light of God’s law, what he demands from us as his people, exposed the things that are not supposed to be in our hearts. We are to love him with all our heart, soul and mind. We are to use our bodies to his glory. We are to love our neighbor, whomever they may be, to act and speak with attitudes that best serve them… ouch. Just saying those words is like light that exposes the unwanted attitudes in my heart. How about you? In the darkness of our sin, we do not see clearly how we are to love God and love our neighbor, or why we love God and neighbor.

That’s where light of God’s gospel is a welcomed light. Listen as God speaks through the prophet Isaiah:

“I will lead the blind by ways they have not known,
along unfamiliar paths I will guide them;
I will turn the darkness into light before them
and make the rough places smooth.
These are the things I will do;
I will not forsake them” (Isaiah 42:16).

Do you see the light? God promises you that he will not forsake you, that is, he will not leave you in the dark, leave you to your sins. Instead, he shines his light and illuminates the path that leads to forgiveness, to Christ, who is your light. Earlier in the chapter the LORD looked ahead to the promised Messiah and said of him, “I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the Gentiles” (Isaiah 42:6).

Jesus is your light. When you find yourself stumbling around in the darkness of your guilt over your lack of love for God and neighbor, look for the light of Christ. He is right here in these words of promise. Go to church! He will not cast you out because of darkness in your heart. Instead, he will shine his light of forgiveness upon you. Create a battle plan to read about God’s light for you this week by doing a bible search for the word “light”. Read as many of them as possible this week and soak in those promises. Let God’s light be a welcomed light in your heart.

Prayer:

O Lord Jesus Christ, by your almighty power you opened the eyes of the blind and showed yourself to them. Turn our eyes away from worthless things and lead us to love you sincerely. We entrust to your care all who are deployed. Guide the members of our military to carry out their vocations safely. Enable them to return home to their families and friends unharmed. Continue to bless the training of our United States Armed Forces to bring justice, establish peace and bring aid to those affected by disaster. In your name we pray. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – Ceasefire! – March 6, 2026

2026/03/06/in Military Devotions

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Based on Romans 5:1-8

Ceasefire!

Ceasefire! It is an order that demands: You stop pulling that trigger! Stop dropping mortar rounds!

But the adrenaline still courses through your body. You smell the burnt propellant from your firearm. You taste the salt from your sweat. Your heart beats in your eardrums. Your eyes are still trained downrange as you drop an empty and clip in a fresh 5.56 mag, waiting, listening for the next “Pop! Pop! Pop!” so you can reengage in the fight.

Ceasefire! An order that should demand peace. You no longer need to use your weapon. You no longer need to be on high alert. There is no reason to fight anymore.

This is the order we need to hear from Jesus every day because when it comes to our spiritual life, it is a difficult thing to just stop and let our hearts be at peace. I know this is a hard thing to do because the enemy continues to attack our position with lie after lie. Maybe for you it’s the lie God’s love must be earned by the way you’ve lived your life. Or maybe it’s that God is mean and vindictive and your suffering is God’s way of punishing you for past sins. Or maybe it’s that your worth is determined by how you perform before God as a warrior, as a single person, as a husband or wife or son or daughter. The enemy fire continues to bark, egging you on to keep fighting, keep grinding, maybe you’ll get there someday.

But Jesus calmly approaches our position with a gentle yet firm command, “Ceasefire.” Listen to his “Ceasefire” through the Apostle Paul: “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1).

You have peace with God because he has justified you. This picture of justification lands us in a courtroom. As military service member the thought of standing in court may mean that you have to defend your actions. But in God’s courtroom you don’t need to defend yourself. You don’t even need to testify. “God has justified you,” Paul writes. This means that the judge’s declaration to you is that you are not guilty. You are innocent. Christ Jesus has taken your guilt upon himself for upon the cross he hung guilty for you.

So, listen to the command from Jesus when he says to you today, “Ceasefire.” There is no need to keep fighting, to keep grinding, to keep believing the lie that God is punishing you. Just rest in his peace. Whether you feel it or not, it is true: you are at peace with God for he is at peace with you because of Christ Jesus.

God has declared it, “Ceasefire.” Just stop. Stand down. Listen to what God has declared to you. You are justified in Christ Jesus.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, because you are my judge, my defense attorney and the one who took my place and paid the penalty for my offenses, you remind me that I stand before you justified right now and tomorrow and the rest of the days of my life. Help me to return to the courtroom and hear your declaration of innocence so that I may rest in the peace only you can give. Continue to bring this message of peace to the hearts of our military service members who are engaged in combat. Reassure them that they stand before you justified. Strengthen their minds and bodies to carry out their vocation as war fighters, knowing their salvation is secure. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – PCSing with a Promise – February 27, 2026

2026/02/27/in Military Devotions

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Based on Genesis 12:1-8

PCSing with a Promise

How many times have you moved in your lifetime? For military personnel, the number can get pretty high. And let’s be honest—moving is hard. Household goods get broken or delayed. You might arrive not knowing a single person. There’s no guarantee you’ll make friends quickly or that you won’t feel lonely. PCS orders may send you somewhere new and much of it feels uncertain.

In Genesis 12, the LORD gave Abram orders that sounded a lot like PCS orders: “Go…to the land I will show you” (Genesis 12:1). Except Abram had no map. No intel brief. No sponsor waiting at the gaining unit. Abram was 75 years old. He and his wife had no children. And yet, the LORD attached promises: “I will bless you… and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you” (Genesis 12:2-3). And Abram went—over a thousand miles on foot—not because he had guarantees, but because the LORD had spoken.

Abram moved under promise.

You do, too. In your vocation, God calls you to go—to new duty stations, new homes, new communities. But he sends you with promises. He promises to be with you. He promises daily bread. He promises forgiveness when you fall into sin. He promises that in Christ, you are declared righteous before him—not because of your strength, but because of Jesus’ perfect life and innocent death for you.

At times, PCS moves strain you emotionally, physically, and spiritually. You may wonder if God sees you in the transition. But his promises don’t change with your zip code. The same God who called Abram calls you by his Word. The same God who kept his promise—bringing Isaac, then Jacob, then King David, and finally Jesus into the world—has kept his promise to save you. In Christ, you will not perish but have eternal life.

And that’s the final PCS, isn’t it? Not to another duty station or another town, but to the place Christ has prepared for you. A permanent home where there are no more goodbyes, no loneliness, no uncertainty. Until then, wherever the military sends you, you live under God’s unchanging promise.

You are PCSing—with a promise.

Prayer:

Lord God, you called Abram to go with nothing but your promise, and you proved yourself faithful. As military members move through the many changes of military life, remind them that your promises in Christ never fail. Especially watch over those deployed and their families. There is a lot of uncertainly right now, Lord. Do as you’ve promised: be with us, provide for us, forgive us, and keep our eyes fixed on our eternal home with you. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – The Champion Who Fought for You – February 20, 2026

2026/02/20/in Military Devotions

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Based on Genesis 3:15; Matthew 4:1–11

The Champion Who Fought for You

At the time of this recording one of our US Navy carrier strike groups has positioned itself in the Middle East. The purpose of this mission is to strengthen alliances, deter aggression from our near peer competitors and provide rapid response in the region. In a situation like this, you don’t send just anyone into a fight. You send people who are trained, tested, and capable of winning—and you give them the equipment to win. Because the outcome affects everyone else. When the mission is critical, you need champions.

Right after the fall into sin, God promised a champion. In Genesis 3:15, the LORD spoke to the serpent and said that the offspring of the woman would crush his head. That was a battlefield promise. Evil would not have the final word. A champion was coming.

Fast forward to the wilderness on the eastern side of the Jordan River. Jesus, newly baptized, is led into combat—not against flesh and blood, but against the devil himself. Forty days, no food, complete weakness. This is not a fair fight by human standards. And that’s the point. Where Adam fell in a perfect garden, Jesus stands firm in a barren wasteland. Where Israel failed in the wilderness, Jesus holds the line.

The devil attacks the way he always does—by twisting God’s Word, questioning God’s care, and offering shortcuts to glory without suffering or the cross. And Jesus doesn’t argue. He doesn’t negotiate. He answers every assault with, “It is written.”

Jesus fights with the Word of God.

This isn’t just an example for you to follow. This is a victory Jesus wins for you. Jesus goes into this fight as your substitute. He resists temptation in your place. He defeats the devil on your behalf.

The serpent strikes, but Christ stands. The head is crushed, just as God promised. The champion has won.

That matters for you. Because you still face temptation. A war fighter on deployment reached out to me asking for prayers to fight against the sins of lust and coveting, and laziness with the Word of God. You will still feel weakness. You may lose battles. But your salvation does not rest on your performance. It rests on Christ’s victory.

In your baptism, his win becomes yours. His obedience covers your failure. His triumph silences the accuser. The devil can still harass, but he cannot condemn. His head is crushed.

So, when the fight is fierce, when the pressure is heavy, remember this: the battle that decided your eternity is already over. Your champion stands victorious, and he stands for you.

Prayer:

Mighty God and Father, our Lord Jesus walked into the wilderness to face the devil’s temptations, but he did not succumb to Satan’s lies or falter in his resolve to save the world from the prison of hell. Bolster our faith by his mighty victory that we may battle against the forces of evil with courage and confidence; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – Not a Story—A Sure Word – February 13, 2026

2026/02/13/in Military Devotions

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Based on 2 Peter 1:16-21

Not a Story—A Sure Word

In the military, credibility matters. Eye-witness testimony carries weight. “I was there. I saw this happen.” That matters on after-action reports and sworn statements because they are grounded in reality, not rumor.

The Apostle Peter understood that. That’s why he begins this section of his letter by saying, “We did not follow cleverly devised stories when we told you about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in power” (2 Peter 1:16). In other words: “This isn’t propaganda. This isn’t religious spin. This isn’t a morale-boosting story someone made up to help people cope. It’s not even AI generated.”

Peter says, “We were eyewitnesses of his majesty” (2 Peter 1:16). He’s talking about the Transfiguration —when he saw Jesus in all his glory, when he heard the Father’s voice boom from heaven, and stood on holy ground. Peter wants us to anchor our faith in his witness, “I saw it with my own eyes, and I want you to believe that Jesus is who he says he is.

Then Peter adds another anchor for our faith to hold onto, “We also have the prophetic message as something completely reliable” (2 Peter 1:19). All the prophets through whom God spoke for over 1,500 years during the Old Testament period, they all pointed to Jesus. And they were right.

More sure than a life-altering experience.
More reliable than emotion.
More dependable than memory.

The Word.

For you as service members, this matters. Because life doesn’t always come with clarity. Orders can be confusing. Missions change. Trust gets broken. And when pressure is high, feelings are unreliable.

God does not ask you to stake your eternal life on how strongly you feel, how clearly you remember, or how impressive someone’s story sounds. He gives you something objective, historical, foundational and true: His Word.

Peter says this Word is “a light shining in a dark place” (2 Peter 1:19). Not a floodlight that answers every question. Not a crystal ball that shows the future. But a flashlight—enough light for the next step, enough truth to keep you from losing your way.

And this Word doesn’t come from human authority. Peter is clear: “No prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation of things” (2 Peter 1:20). Scripture isn’t a personal opinion or a flexible guideline. It is God speaking: “Prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit” (2 Peter 1:21).

God acts through means. He uses words, written and spoken, to deliver Christ to sinners like you. Through Scripture, God tells you what you could never discover on your own: that Jesus Christ has already fought your deepest battle, already won, and already forgiven you.

This Word tells you that your sins are not stronger than Christ’s cross. That your failures do not outrank His resurrection. That your future is not defined by deployments, a diagnose, or discharge papers—but by baptism, forgiveness, and the promise of eternal life.

In a world full of noise, the Word of God does not shout. It endures. And it will still be standing when everything else fades.

So, stay with the Word. Don’t ask ChatGPT to answer your theological questions. Open your bibles. Study your catechisms. Hear the Word. Read the Word. Trust the Word. Because this is not a story, we tell ourselves. It is the sure Word by which God saves you.

Prayer:

Lord God, in the darkness of this world, keep us anchored to Your holy Word. By Your Spirit, strengthen our faith in Christ, that we may trust Your promises now and stand confident in the life to come, through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – Under Authority: The Word That Saves – February 6, 2026

2026/02/06/in Military Devotions

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Based on Luke 7:1-10

Under Authority: The Word That Saves

A Soldier needed a chaplain, so he sent for a Jewish rabbi. This might have made sense if the Soldier was Jewish, but he was not. When the officer’s messengers reached the rabbi they pleaded with him, “This man deserves to have you come immediately. One of his subordinates is very sick and about to die. You need to come with us now!”

The Jewish rabbi went with them.

While he was on his way the rabbi was met by friends of the Soldier. They said, “Rabbi, the captain wanted us to share this message, ‘I am not worthy to have you set foot in my home. But I am a man of authority, and I understand the chain of command. I give a Soldier an order and he gets after it. I know who you are. I know your authority supersedes my authority. All you need to do is say a word and my subordinate will be saved.”

The rabbi was speechless. He said to those around him, “I have not found faith like this in all of the places I have traveled.” The friends rushed back to the home of the Roman centurion and found his servant completely restored to full strength.

A Soldier needed a chaplain and he sent for a Jewish rabbi. This Roman centurion knew and believed that this rabbi was not just a rabbi, but the Son of God, Jesus, who came to save him. Jesus came not just to restore the servant’s health, but to save his life for eternity. This is what Jesus does. He saves through his words.

This week we observe Four Chaplains Day, to honor the service and sacrifice of four US Army chaplains who gave up their own lifejackets to fellow Soldiers as the Dorchester sank into the icy waters of the Atlantic on February 3rd, 1943. In a similar way, Jesus saves. He still carries out his work of saving. He does this by wearing the mask of chaplains. When chaplains open their mouths to speak a word from Jesus to you, Jesus saves through that word.

When water was poured and Jesus words were spoken over your head, “I baptize you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit”, Jesus saved you with those words and that water. In baptism he put his name on you, adopted you into his family, saved you from sin, guilt, and the grave. He saved you for a life eternal in heaven after a resurrection from the dead.

Jesus opens his mouth to speak:

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10).

Jesus saves you from fear and anxiety and despair with those words.

Jesus opens his mouth to speak through his Apostle John and says to you, “. . . If anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.  He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world” (1 John 2:1-2). You are part of the world. You are someone for whom Jesus sacrificed himself to save.

Take a moment today to pause and thank God for chaplains – those who serve in our nation’s military, but also those who serve first responders, EMS, firefighters, police, in hospice care facilities, in hospitals, in schools and corporations, and those who serve the incarcerated. Chaplains serves as faithful masks of God. When they open their mouths to speak the words of Jesus, Jesus saves through his words. His words save you.

Prayer:

All-holy, all-loving God, provide workers for your harvest field, both inside and outside the walls of the church, so that more may hear the story of your everlasting love and your desire that all sinners be saved; through Jesus Christ, your Son and our Savior. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – Boasting is Good – January 30, 2026

2026/01/30/in Military Devotions

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Based on 1 Corinthians 1:26-31

Boasting is Good

Over this past Christmas break our 16-year-old son asked me, “Dad, can I ask you a question – it’s kind of off topic – but…. what are you proud of?” I had to think back on the 47 years of my life and talked about my marriage to my wife and the Christian home that we’ve tried to build. I told him I was proud of all our kiddos and the good friends they have chosen, the spouses that they’ve chosen – we have one son who is married to a dear faithful Christian woman. One of our daughters will be married this summer to a wonderful Christian man who will be a faithful leader in their home. I talked about the three congregations that I’ve served in my ministry, the new church building that that was constructed when I was there in Kentucky, the continuing education, the ministry to the military, all of it.

When I talked about all these things with my son I had to stop and say, “Now listen, buddy. You have to realize that I am proud of these things but none of them are because of what I did. I just happened to be there. But I wouldn’t have been able to do any of those things unless God had worked through me to do it. And despite my pride in those moments – and there was pride at times – pride that I repented of… but I couldn’t really boast in those things and be proud of them because it wasn’t my wisdom, my intellect, or my strength. It was all Christ working through me.”

What about you? What are you proud of? I know what some of you have accomplished. You have shared with me the things that you’ve done on deployments, the missions that you really can’t talk about where you saved lives or deterred the bad guys, when you’ve received commendations, your years of service. I have to give a shout out to General Johnny K. Davis who has been serving in the U.S. Army for 35 years. He’s the head of all recruiting in the U.S. Army – that’s just “Wow!”

None of the things that you accomplished in your lives is because of your efforts, your strength or your wisdom. And the most important accomplishment – your identity in Christ – is not really yours. Your faith in Christ is not really yours because it wasn’t initiated or finished by you. Listen to what the apostle Paul says:

“Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore, as it is written: ‘Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord’” (1 Corinthians 1:26-31).

You are strong. You are wise. You are righteous. You are holy. You are redeemed all because you are in Christ, who sought you out, who called you, who drew you close to himself. Boast in him. That’s good boasting, because it puts the spotlight where it needs to be, on Christ.

Prayer:

Gracious God, you call not the strong or the wise by the world’s measure, but sinners who have nothing to boast of except Christ crucified. In our callings as service members and families, keep us from trusting in rank, strength, or success, and ground us instead in your grace alone. When we feel weak or overlooked, remind us that our righteousness, holiness, and redemption are found in Jesus. Humble us under your Word, sustain us in our vocations, and teach us to boast only in the Lord; through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – As in the Days of Midian – January 23, 2026

2026/01/23/in Military Devotions

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Based on Isaiah 9:4

As in the Days of Midian

There are some battles that are so widely known that you just need to say one or two words and most people know: “D-Day.” “The Bulge.” Or today, January 23, 1943… (how well do you know your military history?) U.S. forces seized control of… Guadalcanal.

There is a battle that was so well known among God’s people that the prophet Isaiah only needed to use one word, and everyone knew which battle he was talking about. “For as in the day of Midian’s defeat…” (Isaiah 9:4).

I’d encourage you to read about this battle in Judges chapter 7. The after action report would have said, “Despite overwhelming odds, the small company of Israelite war fighters thoroughly destroyed the warriors from the nation of Midian.”

The Midianites brutally oppressed the people of Israel. The enemy so impoverished the Israelites politically, economically, agriculturally the people cried out under its awful weight. God, through a man named Gideon, shattered that yoke, that heavy bar across their shoulders.

Isaiah predicted that God would do this again: “For as in the days of Midian’s defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor” (Isaiah 9:4).

The well-known battles would be fought, not with swords or spears, not with Paladin or Patriot missiles, but with words and a will that would not be broken. The battlefield was a wilderness where the enemy failed to drive the hero to despair. The battlefield was a garden, where the hero wrestled in prayer, but in the end, willingly submitted his will to his Father. The battlefield was a cross, where the accusations of the enemy and the wrath of a holy God and the burden of guilt was laid on his shoulders, on his soul. The battlefield was a tomb that could not hold the hero’s dead body, which came back to life and lived and lives today. By his resurrection he has destroyed the grip of the grave and death over you.

These battles are so well known that you only need to say a word or two and you know it means victory for you: Gethsemane, Golgotha, garden tomb. Whatever burdens your soul today, whatever guilt you feel pressing down on your conscience, whatever sadness or grief weighs down on your heart, know that it has all been removed, crushed, destroyed – for Christ, our hero, has won the battle against overwhelming forces that fought against him and against us.

When you feel burdened by your guilt, when you feel overwhelmed by the enemy, return to these battlefield sites, walk through them, and remember what happened there: victory for you; freedom from oppression for you. And you can say, “As in the days of Midian’s defeat… so are the days of the devil’s defeat… so are the days of my sins’ defeat… so are the days of my death’s defeat…”

Prayer:

Lord God of hosts, you shattered the power of Midian and through your Son, broke the yoke of sin, death and the devil. When we feel oppressed by guilt, fear or grief, lead us again to the cross and empty tomb, that we may rest in Christ’s victory and live in the freedom he has won for us. In the name of our victorious hero, Jesus. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – Making Changes – January 16, 2026

2026/01/16/in Military Devotions

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Based on John 1:29

Making Changes

Whether you agree or disagree with the police action taken by our government last week, one thing is clear: it’s going to bring change. That operation took months of planning and the coordination of multiple federal assets, and its effects will reach far beyond a single moment. We don’t yet know how life will change for the 29 million people in Venezuela. We don’t know how it will impact the economies of near-peer competitors who depend on that country. And we don’t fully know how it will affect the safety and economy of the 347 million people here at home. What we do know is this—when something like this happens, change follows, for better or for worse.

History is full of moments like that. Years, decades, even centuries later, we can look back and see how one decision or one operation altered the course of millions of lives. But there is one event in history, carried out by one individual, that brought a life-changing result for every person who has ever lived, is living now, or ever will live. His name is the Lamb of God. And his single action? He took away the sin of the world.

That’s what John the Baptist points to in John 1:29: “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” Picture the moment. John is standing in the Jordan River, water still dripping from his hands as he points. People turn their heads. They know exactly what he means. They’ve seen the sacrifices at the temple. They’ve smelled the smoke, heard the cries of the animals, and watched lifeblood spilled on the altar. They understood that sin demands a price. A holy God demands nothing less.

And now John says, This one. This Lamb, who is also God, takes sin away. He lifts it up, bears it, and carries it away. He offers himself as the sacrifice that pays the price for the sin of the world. And when Scripture says “the world,” that includes you. Your sin was lifted up. Your sin was carried away. Your sacrifice was made—in full.

Who else could change life for every single person on this planet? Only the Lamb of God. He has changed your life by giving you his life—and by giving you life beyond this one, life with him for eternity. This wasn’t a last-minute decision. He planned this from eternity. And his motive is no mystery. He gets something out of it. He gets you.

So don’t think of yourself as lost in the crowd, just another number, unnoticed or forgotten. You matter to God. You always have. The Lamb of God came to make changes—to change this world and to change your life by taking away your sin. How might that truth shape the way you live today?

Prayer:

Father in heaven, at the baptism of Jesus in the River Jordan, you proclaimed him your beloved Son and anointed him with the Holy Spirit. Keep us who are baptized into Christ faithful in our calling as your children and make us heirs with him of everlasting life. Open doors for our ministry to the military so that more war fighters might hear this message and have their lives changed for eternity. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – Baptismal Identity – January 9, 2026

2026/01/09/in Military Devotions

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Based on Matthew 3:13-17

Baptismal Identity

In November 2024, a young high school graduate shipped off to boot camp, full of promise, and excited to serve in our nation’s military. This was his dream. In mid-December, just a few weeks ago, a family member emailed me saying, “My grandson is being medically discharged. You can remove him from your mailing list.” My heart broke. I said a quick prayer, texted the young man and asked him, “I heard what happened. This must be hard for you. How can I pray for you today?”

I’m guessing that you have faced disappointments like this. You planned the mission, anticipated every possible deviation, but when it came time to execute the mission was called off, or it went horribly wrong. You were on track to achieve rank, but it didn’t happen. You set goals for your squadron but fell far short. You entered a marriage that was to be for life, but it hasn’t. Maybe you were expecting a child who was to fill your house with joy, but that child is no longer with you.

When the unexpected derails life, it’s hard to see yourself as you once were. When you’re no longer carrying out that vocation, or when you’ve failed horribly at that vocation, or have had a series of unfortunate events that no longer allow you to carry out that vocation, you might be asking yourself, “Who am I? What’s my purpose anymore if I am not what I used to be?”

My friends, Christ Jesus came to give you identity and purpose and meaning and worth.

When he was about 30 years old Jesus went to the Jordan River to be baptized by the prophet John. John knew Jesus was the Son of God, so he tried to stop Jesus. “But John tried to deter him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” Jesus replied, ‘Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.’ Then John consented” (Matthew 3:14-15).

Jesus had no sin. He was completely righteous in his living. The righteous thing his Father sent him to do was to completely identify with our sin, our failures, our brokenness, our disappointments. And at his baptism, he became them, took them upon himself as if they were his own. Since Jesus has completely identified himself with your sin he has given you his righteousness – his right living – as if it were your own.

His gift comes to you through the hearing of these words. His gift comes to you through the waters of your baptism. In your baptism he puts his name on you, calls you his brother, his sister, sons and daughters of the Father, heirs of a resurrection from the dead and eternal life in heaven. In your baptism he gives you his righteous life which covers over your failures. He gives you his righteous life so that you might know you are not a failure but forgiven, redeemed and restored.

Whatever disappointments, failures, heartaches, regrettable decisions you’ve made in your life, take them to Jesus. Take them to the waters of your baptism and wash them clean. See yourself the way your God sees you; baptized, forgiven, brother or sister of Jesus, dressed in the robe of Christ’s righteousness forever. And then go and live that baptismal life. Every morning wake up and say, “I am a baptized child of God. I will live that way today.” Every evening before you lay your head on your pillow say, “Despite what happened today, I am still a baptized child of God, forgiven by my Father in heaven, because he loves me.”

That’s who you are and who you will be because Jesus says so in your baptism.

Prayer:

Father in heaven, at the baptism of Jesus in the River Jordan, you proclaimed him your beloved Son and anointed him with the Holy Spirit. Keep us who are baptized into Christ faithful in our calling as your children, and make us heirs with him of everlasting life. As we remember in our prayers those who are deployed, keep them faithful to their marriages, pure in their thoughts and intentions. Keep them content and may they find joy in their work. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – Remember the Many Good Things the LORD Has Done for You – January 2, 2026

2026/01/02/in Military Devotions

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Based on Isaiah 63:7-9

Remember the Many Good Things the LORD Has Done for You

Now that we have firmly stepped into a new year I want to ask, how was 2025? There are plenty of after action reviews out there to remind us. Nearly every news organization publishes a “year in review”. Like a military storyboard, many showcase the top pictures of the year or the trending memes from 2025. Even your phone will create a collage of your most memorable moments and people to help you recall this past year.

God does something similar. The pictures he uses are the stories and promises he makes in the Bible. He wants to help you remember the good things he has done for you. Listen to the prophet Isaiah:

“I will tell of the kindnesses of the LORD, the deeds for which he is to be praised, according to all the Lord has done for us—yes, the many good things he has done for Israel, according to his compassion and many kindnesses” (Isaiah 63:7).

First, Isaiah shares why the LORD has done good things for you: he is compassionate and kind. His heart is moved by his love for sinners and he puts that love into action on our behalf. Because he is a kind and loving God Isaiah says, “… he became their Savior” (Isaiah 63:8). We need a Savior God because if we were to look at your year in review through pictures, I am sure there are some you wouldn’t want to see. There are certainly pictures you wouldn’t want others to see… pictures that show the thoughts you had towards others, words spoken, actions taken, actions you didn’t take but should have. Since your kind, loving God is your Savior, he removes those pictures from your storyboard and replaces them with pictures of Jesus’ loving words, his kind actions, his charitable thoughts. God wants you to remember the good things he has done for you – how he saved you from your sins and saved you for himself.

Isaiah writes, “In his love and mercy he redeemed them.” (Isaiah 63:9) Good thing God did for you is he redeemed you. Jesus paid a price – his very life – to make you his own. You belong to him. Usually when a person is owned by someone else, that’s not a good thing. But in this case, it is one of the many good things the LORD has done for you. Listen!

“He lifted them up and carried them all the days of old” (Isaiah 63:9). The picture is of a child lifting up her arms saying, “Up! Up!” The Father lifts his child up in his arms. Because you belong to your Father in heaven he has lifted you up and carried you. Look back on the year and see how often the LORD did this for you.

So instead of looking ahead to 2026 and wondering what this year will bring, start today by reading your bible every day and remember the many good things the LORD has done for you.

Prayer:

Eternal God, you are always the same and your years have no end. In your mercy we close another year and begin another. You have done good things for us. For this we humbly say, “Thank you.” Move us to devote our time to your Word this year, so that you may remind us of all the good things you have done and will continue to do for us. We march confidently into the New Year with your compassion and kindness to bless us. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – The Hidden Glory of God – December 26, 2025

2025/12/26/in Military Devotions

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Based on John 1:1-14

The Hidden Glory of God

“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us” (John 1:14).

The Word—Jesus is the Word. In eternity God spoke, and the world came into being. God spoke and there was light. When the darkness of sin invaded the light, God spoke again and made promises to scatter the darkness. The Word, God from eternity, begotten of the Father, so interconnected with the Father, would take on human flesh. He would be present, not omnipresent as he was before, but confined to space and time.

The Word became flesh. Jesus assumed the true nature of a human being and lived among his creatures. Men like John the apostle spent a considerable amount of time with him and were able to examine and listen, to scrutinize and confirm: “Yes, this one is like us! He gets tired and hungry and needs water, he cries and he laughs, and he is truly human.” And yet, John says, “We have seen his glory.”

John watched with amazement as the Word revealed the thoughts and attitudes of the hearts of men. He watched the Word walk on water. He watched him heal the sick and raise the dead. The Word himself was subjected to death—they snuffed out the light of life—but he came back from the dead.

Although Jesus was God from eternity and embodied the fullness of the deity, and although John said, “We have seen his glory,” the Word hid his glory. The Word became flesh, not in a palace among kings and princes, but in a lowly place where animals ate and slept. The Word became flesh, not to flaunt his power through words that thunder from heaven, but in the quiet whisper of good news: “You are forgiven!”

At Christmastime we might be tempted to look for something more from Jesus—some sort of financial miracle to get us out of a money mess, some sort of grace bomb that will restore all our broken relationships, some sort of heart and mind transplant that will remove all these relentless inappropriate thoughts and desires.

The Word became flesh and still hides his glory. He hides his grandeur in a gentle word of grace and truth spoken to you: “I forgive you all your sins.” He hides his greatness in simple water where you are reassured: “Yes, you are my child.” He hides in simple bread and wine: “This is my body, this is my blood, given for you for the pardon of all your transgressions.” Grace and truth for you.

This Christmas, marvel at the Word made flesh, who hid his glory, who hides his glory even now, so that you might receive the greatest gifts: grace and truth today, tomorrow, and for eternity, where you will behold him in all his glory.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, during these days of the Christmas season, reassure us that you became flesh so that you might give us your grace and truth. Reassure those who serve in our nation’s military that although they may be far from their loved ones this Christmas, you continue to dwell among your people. Comfort family members and friends who miss their service member with your abiding presence. Renew in us the desire to read, study, and pray on your Word of truth daily so we never forget why you were born—to save us. In your name we pray. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – It Will Not Happen – December 19, 2025

2025/12/19/in Military Devotions

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Based on Isaiah 7:10-14

It Will Not Happen

“It will not happen. There’s no probable way they can win the battle.”

These words could have been spoken during the Revolutionary War. When you read the history of the armed forces under General Washington’s command—the untrained militiamen, the undisciplined Continental Army, the circumstances leading up to that bleak winter at Valley Forge—it wasn’t going to happen. Their situation was desperate. Until a foreigner, a stranger named Baron von Steuben, brought training, discipline, improved hygiene, and increased morale among the troops. He is credited as one of the key figures in turning defeat into victory.

“It will not happen. There is no probable way they can win the battle.” These words could have been spoken by the enemies of the people of Judah, during the time of Isaiah the prophet. The nations of Aram and Ephraim joined forces against God’s people and had already defeated King Ahaz in battle, twice! Now they marched against the city of Jerusalem. The people of Judah had no chance. They would all die or be carried off as slaves. It was inevitable.

But God spoke up and said, “It will not happen. It will not take place.” Meaning, “My people will not lose. Her enemies will not overpower her. I will do the impossible, the unexpected, and rescue them from certain disaster.” God saved his people.

God even gave a sign to wicked King Ahaz to prove to him that he would keep his promise—an unexpected sign: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14). How’s that for a sign? God was looking ahead to a greater deliverance, not just from physical armies that threaten to destroy his people but from the spiritual forces of evil who threaten his people. A virgin would give birth to God, who would live as a human being among the people of the world. He would save the world from her enemies: sin, death, the devil, and hell itself.

Who are the enemies that stand in your way and make it feel impossible that you will get through another holiday season? Is it guilt, the guilt of knowing your words caused hurt and as a result there are people you love with whom you will not spend Christmas? Is it regret over an act of infidelity that caused separation in the family? Is it loneliness, knowing that your son or daughter will be in basic training or in the desert or the middle of the ocean this Christmas? Or will it be you in the middle of the ocean or in the desert or in the barracks this Christmas, feeling lonely? These enemies make us feel that we, God’s people, stand no chance to win in spiritual battle.

But listen! God speaks: “It will not happen. It will not take place.” Your sins will not overpower you. Satan’s lies cannot stand against you. Guilt and regret will not overwhelm you. Loneliness will not crush you, because God kept his promise to you. The virgin did conceive. She bore a son. His name is Immanuel, “God with us,” to be our sin, to give pardon for sins, to be our presence. God with us to save us. God with us to do the unexpected and impossible. That’s what Immanuel has done for you.

Prayer:

Stir up your power, O Lord, and come. Take away the burden of our sins and make us ready for the celebration of your birth so that we may receive you in joy and serve you always.

We thank you for our United States Space Force, which celebrates its sixth anniversary this year on December 20th. Just as you are always above us, looking down and protecting us, cause the members of our Space Force to faithfully carry out their motto, “Semper Supra” (always above), providing defense and protection from all adversaries and threats emanating from the domain of space. In your name we pray. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Military Devotion – Do Not Be Afraid – December 12, 2025

2025/12/12/in Military Devotions

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Based on Isaiah 35:3-4

Do Not Be Afraid

I’m certain you’ve heard it at least once the past couple of weeks and will continue to hear it until December 25th if not until January 1st—that old-time classic, “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.”

But I know that’s not always true. The holiday season can lend itself to more tension in the family. Tighter budgets as families plan for Christmas gifting and Christmas travel create financial strain. There can be stress from family gatherings. Increased alcohol consumption can create a volatile environment. That’s when military families see a rise in domestic abuse.

Unfortunately for some, or maybe for you or someone you know, there could be emotional manipulation, physical or sexual violence, financial deprivation, intimidation, or deliberate isolation preventing you from gathering with family, cutting off emotional support.

If this is you, I want you to know a few things. First, you do not deserve to be subjected to abuse. It is not okay. Second, this world is a broken place, filled with people who are so broken by sin they do awful things to each other. I am sorry that this is happening to you.

You may feel powerless and alone, but you are not. You do not have to be afraid. If you are a victim of abuse, your knees may be weak and wobbly, afraid to walk into a pastor’s or chaplain’s office. Your hands may tremble, afraid to pick up the phone and call, with a heart that is so afraid you don’t know what to do or what to think.

Listen to the words of your Savior God through the prophet Isaiah: “Strengthen the feeble hands, steady the knees that give way; say to those with fearful hearts, ‘Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you’ ” (Isaiah 35:3-4).

Please do not misunderstand God when he says to you, “Be strong, do not fear.” He is not saying, “Chin up! Just be stronger, pray harder, believe more, and you’ll get through this!” When God makes this statement, “Be strong, do not fear,” he gives you the power to do just that.

Your God gives power by bringing a message of hope and life for you. Your God is the God who saves the broken, and that salvation is yours today, tomorrow, and forever. Through Jesus you are right with God. You have an identity in him. You are his child. You are loved by him. And I don’t know why this is happening to you right now, but he knows and he has done something about it. He redeemed all things, including you and your situation, when he became the victim of abuse on the cross.

He also wants you to know that he is the God of justice. His justice will come. God will hold abusers accountable.

This promise from God is meant to strengthen your feeble hands and weak knees, to give confidence to your fearful heart to take the next steps. He will be your power when you feel you have no power to move forward. He will be your presence when you feel alone.

While you wait for his justice, it does not mean staying in an unsafe situation. God provides earthly help and shelter through the people he places around you—pastors, chaplains, commanders, police officers, family advocates, judges, lawyers, family members, and friends.

Be strong. Do not be afraid. Your God comes to save you.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, you know brokenness. You know abuse. You were once broken and abused. You endured it all by your death on the cross and were raised again to give us the hope of life in that place of perfect peace. Empower victims of abuse to get help. Help us to become faithful advocates and safe spaces for victims of abuse. Open our ears to listen, our arms to hold, our mouths to speak your words of comfort and love. In your name we ask it. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

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