Devotions

Devotion based on Isaiah 7:13,14

See series: Devotions

Family Devotion – December 19, 2022

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

A new church came to a town offering perfectly designed music, lights, sights, and sounds for worship. Their musicians were talented, their church members very friendly, their pastor a really good speaker. On a giant billboard next to their church, they advertised to the thousands of cars driving by: “Not your grandma’s church.” They’re saying that their worship and church were more exciting than the memories of the church your grandmother grew up in.

It’s possible that some people decided to attend church there because of their advertising “Not your grandma’s church.” Maybe some people went there not because that church is better—but that it’s simply different from what they knew growing up. Is it also possible that they forgot the blessings—the Jesus—that their grandparents tried to teach them? Is it possible for people to forget about the blessings that Jesus gives through his Word and sacraments because they get distracted by something that feels easier and more entertaining?

It’s not the first time that’s happened.

In our reading from Isaiah chapter 7, we hear about a wicked king named Ahaz. He forgot about the blessings God promised to his great-great-great grandfather, King David. Ahaz worshiped other gods and forgot about the promised Messiah, who would come from David’s family.

In his grace, God sends Isaiah to remind King Ahaz: “Listen now, you house of David. … the Lord himself will give a sign for all of you. Look! The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son and name him Immanuel.”

Maybe your grandparents grew up Lutheran. Maybe your grandparents aren’t Christian at all. But either way, we need reminding today. We need to be reminded that church is the place where God’s Word is preached, where God’s work takes center stage, where Christ forgives our sins and gives his personal assurance of it in his miraculous meal called the Lord’s Supper.

This time of year God reminds us: The Lord himself has promised a miraculous baby, the Messiah. This one is Immanuel—God with us.

That’s the message we all need, grandmothers and grandchildren alike: Immanuel has come to live among us!

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank you for living among us during your ministry; thank you for continuing to be in the midst of your people in Word and sacrament, and thank you for reminding us of your grace this Advent season. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

Name two actions that we do in the worship service on Sunday mornings. Which is your favorite?
What kind of things do you like to be reminded of? What good thing did God remind us about in our devotion today?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Why do we need to be reminded of good things?
What is one thing that God reminds us about during the worship service?

Questions for Middle School and Above

In the Words of Institution, after promising his body and blood are present in the Lord’s Supper, Jesus says: “Do this in remembrance of me.” Why is Jesus so concerned that Christians remember him?
What can our family do to help remember Jesus on a more regular basis?

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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.

He Comes to Be With Us – December 19, 2022

2022/12/19/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.
Isaiah 7:14

He Comes to Be With Us

Daily Devotion – December 19, 2022

Devotion based on Isaiah 7:14

See series: Devotions

We make plans around Christmas to be with the ones we love. If they are far away, we make travel arrangements. Then we wait for that day to come when distance will no longer separate us from those we love, and we can finally be with them.

There was once a time when God was with his people, and it wasn’t a long-distance relationship. When God created the first people, he dwelt with them in the Garden of Eden. Then came a serpent, the devil. He tempted them. When they sinned and did what God had told them not to do, for the first time, they were separated from God. But in the very same moment, God made a promise. He promised that one born of the woman would crush the devil and his plan to separate God and his people forever (Genesis 3:15).

It was always God’s plan to be with his people. It was always his plan to take on the burden of traveling the long distance between us and him. He’s the God that comes to us. He doesn’t meet us halfway. He doesn’t kickback in heaven and say, “You know where to find me, but it’s up to you to come the distance.” No. He’s the God who comes to us in love.

In the centuries that followed the promise he made in the garden—that one born of a woman would come to save—he revealed more details about the coming Savior. Here is living proof that our God comes all the way to us: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.”

Immanuel means God with us. No longer separated by sin. He wants nothing more than to be with us. God bridged the gap just as he always planned. Jesus—the offspring of the woman, the son born of a virgin—is living-proof that God came to be with us, and he will come again to take us to be with him.

Prayer:
Come, Lord Jesus, to be with me and to comfort me with your promises. Amen

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

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.

Advent Devotion – Come, Lord Jesus – Day 18

2022/12/18/in Womens Advent Devotions, Womens Devotions

Come Into the Public Square

I [Paul] urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.
1 Timothy 2:1,2

Long ago, a man named Daniel faced a death sentence because the king of ancient Babylon had a dream that left him confused and upset. As soon as Daniel heard about the death sentence, he went home and consulted with his friends and asked them to “plead for mercy from the God of heaven concerning this mystery” (Daniel 2:18).

Daniel asked the king for time to interpret the king’s dream. That night God gave the meaning to Daniel, and the next day he gave the king the meaning of the dream.

Paul reminds us in 1 Timothy how important it is to pray for our political and government leaders: so we may live peaceful and quiet lives.

What if it were against the law to share the gospel? What if we faced death every time we gathered for Bible study?

Our local, state, and federal leaders need our prayers for wisdom to make God-pleasing choices, as do our military and local law enforcement. Just like us, they often face temptations. All of us benefit when we pray for each other and for blessings of peace in our public square.

So pray for the president, the governor, the mayor, the generals, the commissioner, the representatives, and the sheriff. Pray for them all.

Prayer:

Dear Lord Jesus, our only true peace is with you. Bless us with leaders who love you and make wise choices. Heal the hurts in our families caused by political differences. Remind us that you are our true King and you reign supreme. Amen.

Written by Deb Hofland
Provided by WELS Women’s Ministry

Transformed – teen devotion – December 18, 2022

2022/12/18/in Teen Devotions

One truth shared: God works through difficult circumstances as part of his greater plan and helps us see our role in his plans.

“This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”). When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.”
Matthew 1:18-25‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

Part of the Plan

Alyssa was crushed. She had failed her first driving test. What would everyone think when they found out? The thought of having to do it all over again made her panic level rise inside. In Alyssa’s mind, the sky was falling.

Joseph was crushed. He and Mary were pledged to be married, Suddenly, Joseph got the worst news of his life: Mary was pregnant, and he was not the father. In that moment in his head, the sky was falling.

When dealing with disappointment, it’s hard to know how to respond. For Alyssa, failing the driving test threw a huge wrench into her plans. For Joseph, it looked like a big mess filled with major hurt and broken relationships.

How did God respond to the mess? God sent an angel to visit Joseph. The angel assured Joseph that Mary’s pregnancy was the work of God and that the baby to be born was the long-promised Savior from sin—Immanuel—God with us! The angel told Joseph to not be afraid, but to take Mary home to be his wife. He and Mary were part of an incredible bigger plan that Joseph never could have imagined. All of a sudden, it all made sense.

What amazing grace! What unfailing love! God used what looked like a mess of a situation as part of something bigger and better. God also used a sinful human being, Joseph, and showed him his important role in that plan.

God‘s plans are still happening. Just like God worked through Joseph and that difficult situation, God continues to work through sinful human beings like you and through your difficult situations.

How do you respond to difficult situations? Do you get angry and upset? It’s understandable, But next time, ask yourself this: how might God be working something better through your momentary pain or failure? How might God be calling you to trust him and to be a part of his plans?

Whatever you might be experiencing, remember that Immanuel is with you. He forgives you when you struggle to trust him and his plans. And like he did for Joseph, God will give you strength and faith to see his loving hand at work and to play your part.

Prayer: Merciful Savior, we praise you for looking on us with compassion when we doubt. Forgive us when we doubt your Word, and assure us of your grace and unfailing love. Amen.

Teen Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

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.

Give Him the Name Jesus – December 18, 2022

2022/12/18/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

An angel of the Lord appeared to [Joseph] in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”
Matthew 1:20,21

Give Him the Name Jesus

Daily Devotion – December 18, 2022

Devotion based on Matthew 1:20,21

See series: Devotions

Naming a baby can be quite exciting. Some parents debate for months on what they will call their child. In an effort to find the perfect name, they may even consult books that are full of baby names or do an extensive online search. Parents are getting more creative all the time. Some parents pick a name to be different. Some pick a family name. Some pick biblical names.

God had a unique purpose in naming his Son. In giving him the name Jesus, God was not trying to be trendy or creative. Rather, he was giving his one and only Son an important title and job description. You see, God had taken a look at his world and didn’t like what he saw. He saw his perfect creation ruined by sin and the entire human race terribly lost in sin and on the way to destruction and condemnation.

As the holy God that he is, the Lord had every right to leave us lost in sin and to go his own way. But that’s not the kind of God we have! Instead God, in love, sent his Son to be our Savior. Jesus lived up to his name. He came into this world and lived a perfect life in our place, earning the righteousness that we sorely lack in our own lives. Then he went on to the cross and died an innocent death in our place, paying for all sins. Jesus saved us just like his name describes.

This Christmas—and always—thank God for the wonderful gift of his Son, Jesus, and learn to praise his name always. It is the only name by which we are saved.

Prayer:
Dear Father in heaven, I am humbled by the tremendous gift of your Son, whose name is Jesus. Lead me to thank and praise and love him all the days of my life. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

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.

Advent Devotion – Come, Lord Jesus – Day 17

2022/12/17/in Womens Advent Devotions, Womens Devotions

Come, Lord Jesus, Into Our Relationships

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.
1 Peter 4:8

Dear God, I know what you’re saying here, but it’s so hard. I feel like I’ve taken the high road and gone over and above. I’ve tried to “love deeply” by looking past the hurtful words and actions. I’ve extended beyond what I thought I could give and let “a multitude” of sins go.

But this relationship still isn’t working. It’s just hard. And awkward. And messy.

So come, Lord Jesus, into our relationship!

Because when you’re in the middle, I don’t see two sides. I just see you.

And you show me that love isn’t a “feeling.” It’s an action. And your action was sacrifice. And the sacrifice was hard for you too.

You walked the “high road,” going above and beyond to give your perfection to me.

You didn’t just look past my hurtful thoughts, words, and actions—you claimed them as your own.

And it cost everything to cover the multitude of my sins.

With you in the middle, my heavenly Father doesn’t see two sides. He just sees what you’ve done for me.

So I pray, “Come, Lord Jesus, into this relationship!” Make it possible for us to love each other deeply.

Prayer:

Dear Jesus, every day we hurt each other more deeply and in more ways than we can count. Please forgive us. As we prepare for your coming this Advent season, open our eyes to the extent of love you’ve shown us. Then, enable us to extend that love to others. In our thoughts. In our words. In our actions. Help us to love each other deeply as a reflection of the deep love you have for us. Amen.

Written by Dawn Schultz
Provided by WELS Women’s Ministry

Foxhole – December 17, 2022

2022/12/17/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

We consider blessed those who have persevered.
James 5:11

Foxhole

Daily Devotion – December 17, 2022

Devotion based on James 5:11

See series: Devotions

Years ago, the Seattle Times ran a feature story on a man by the name of Paul Rogers. Paul was 96 years old and got around with a walker. He lived quietly and comfortably in his house in Overland Park, KS.

Seventy years earlier, however, Paul Rogers faced a different reality. Paul found himself in conditions few of us can imagine. He was in a foxhole in Northern Europe with the temperature below freezing, he had no winter clothing, and enemy troops surrounded his company’s position. Random mortar fire rained down on him. And there was little Paul Rogers could do, except endure it. This frigid, nerve-shattering ordeal lasted for 29 days.

When our Lord speaks to us in the Bible about life in this cold and broken world, he understands that much of it comes down to simple endurance. Perhaps it’s a difficult personality at work or a family member who regularly manages to cause pain. Maybe it’s a period of financial stress that never seems to end or chronic poor health, where you can’t remember the last time you woke up feeling well. Perhaps it’s old regrets that insist on coming back to haunt you or old temptations that never tire of tempting you all over again.

The next time you find yourself in a foxhole of trouble that you know you will just have to endure, keep in mind a couple of things. First, keep in mind that there are many others who, no doubt, have had to endure you and your weaknesses from time to time. But most of all, remember Jesus who has endured all things on your behalf.

Where we have stumbled and given in, Jesus did not. Where we surrendered to temptations, Jesus did not. Then he went to the cross. And there he endured the unspeakable to wash us clean forever. He endured all things in our place and prevailed. And now he lives to send us the strength of his Spirit by the power of his gospel. In him, we will prevail.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, be with me in my foxhole. Comfort me. Give me courage and strength. Keep me warm in your grace. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

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.

Advent Devotion – Come, Lord Jesus – Day 16

2022/12/16/in Womens Advent Devotions, Womens Devotions

Come Into Our Perspective

Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
Colossians 3:2

Almost annually, the “most wonderful time of the year” gets invaded by stress and fatigue. The showstopper cookies you planned for weeks burn. A blizzard kept you from seeing your middle-schooler participate in his very first Christmas program. Each holiday is tainted by the memory of loved ones no longer here.

Satan loves to prey on us as we experience the heartbreaks. Can he push me to snap at my spouse? Does he dig that pit of despair deeper each Christmas? Can he distract our hearts from Jesus? He celebrates our pain whenever he shifts our perspective away from heaven’s peace to this world’s problems.

But God reminds us to set our minds on things above, not on earthly things.

Whether we experience delight or devastation, we can raise our gaze heavenward. Less-than-stellar cookies remind us of God’s daily provision, which we so easily take for granted. A service cancelled due to weather can remind us of the debt of sin Jesus cancelled on our behalf. The pain of missing someone special encourages us to look to the eternal life we will soon have.

Mary may have been tempted to grumble about her uncomfortable journey and giving birth in a humble stable. We will be tempted too. The Holy Spirit can help us focus not on our challenges but rather on the fulfillment of God’s promises that first Christmas night and even still.

Prayer:

Dear heavenly Father, equip us with clear eyes to see your love and grace, even in the pain of this broken world. Grant us your Spirit’s power to set our minds on things above as we look forward to your advent. Come, Lord Jesus. Amen.

Written by Becky Grefe
Provided by WELS Women’s Ministry

Or Should I Look Somewhere Else? – December 16, 2022

2022/12/16/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Matthew 11:2-11

While John was in prison, he heard about the things Christ was doing. He sent two of his disciples to ask him, “Are you the Coming One or should we wait for someone else?” Jesus replied, “Go, report to John what you hear and see: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the gospel is preached to the poor.”
Matthew 11: 2-5

Or Should I Look Somewhere Else?

Devotion based on Matthew 11: 2-5

See series: Devotions

Family Devotion – December 16, 2022

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

The three readings this week talk about a few different emotions: surprise, patience, and now—disappointment. In the Gospel reading from Matthew 11, we hear that John the Baptist is disappointed: “While John was in prison, he heard about the things Christ was doing. He sent two of his disciples to ask him, ‘Are you the Coming One or should we wait for someone else?’” Wow. Talk about disappointment! John had preached that Jesus was the Messiah; John had pointed to Jesus and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” John said that this Jesus, the promised Messiah, would destroy his enemies with fire and judge the world with justice!

Now John was in prison for preaching what God’s Word said. John was in jail because he had clearly taught what God’s Word said. And it certainly seems that John was disappointed in Jesus. If Jesus was the powerful Messiah that John had preached about . . . where was the justice? Why was John in jail? Why did John suffer for simply doing what God had commanded him to do?

Can you imagine how disappointed John felt? You may have felt let down by someone. Maybe there was a time when you were disappointed in what someone did or said. But… John is disappointed with God!

Jesus gently directs John—and us—back to his clear Word. Our happiness with God doesn’t hinge on what he does for us, or how he blesses us; our joy in Jesus is completely because Jesus has done everything that he promised. That’s why Jesus points John (and us) back to Isaiah 35. Jesus says that he is doing, and will do, exactly what the Messiah said he would do—so there’s no reason to be disappointed in Jesus: “Go, report to John what you hear and see: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the gospel is preached to the poor.”

Whew! Jesus is the One!

Closing Prayer:

Lord, I confess my disappointment. My heart wants things to happen on my schedule and in my way; yet just like John, you direct me back to what you promised to do. You have brought your gospel to me, and your certain Word has promised me forgiveness! Grant that I am never disappointed in this truth. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

Why was John in jail? (Reread that portion of the devotion as needed.)
How do you think John felt?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

What was the message John sent to Jesus?
What answer do you think John was expecting?

Questions for Middle School and Above

What message does Jesus give to John through the messengers? (This phrasing is a direct fulfillment of Isaiah’s words about the Messiah.) Why does Jesus send this message for John?
Name two bad ways and two good ways that Christians can handle disappointment.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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.

Heads Up! – December 16, 2022

2022/12/16/in Devotions, Military Devotions

Heads Up! – December 16, 2022

At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”
Luke 21:27,28

Military Devotion – December 16, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 21:27,28

See series: Military Devotions

Some had their eyes focused only on their breakfast that morning. Some were looking at the magnificent rolling surf. A few glanced up at the sound of low-flying aircraft. Some eyes were still closed in sleep. No one panicked.

Until.

Until they heard the explosions. Until they saw the red circles on the aircraft wings. Until it was too late.

The place was Pearl Harbor. It was a Sunday morning in December of 1941. President Roosevelt labeled it “A Day of Infamy.”

No one expected to see death and disaster coming from that bright sky. No one had given them a “Heads up!”

They had been told to prepare for a time like this. But they didn’t think it would be on this day and at this place. They assumed life would just continue on much as it had before. Hawaii was a great place to be stationed. Christmas was coming. Who would have thought the rolling surf would turn black with oil and red with blood before this day ended?

For the survivors, life changed forever. From now on, eyes would feverishly scan those skies. Now they lived in fear that inbound terror would descend from above.

The meaning of that Christmas changed. No more “Peace and Joy!” Now the message was, “Prepare to meet your God!”

Yet hasn’t that always been the Christmas message? The presence of the holy God has always carried a threat, hasn’t it? Think of Israel trembling at the foot of Mount Sinai. Remember Isaiah’s warning to his readers, “Wail, for the day of the LORD is near; it will come like destruction from the Almighty” (Isaiah 13:6).

Is the holy God to be feared? Absolutely!

The New Testament declares: “It is a dreadful thing to fall into the hands of the living God” (Hebrews 10:31).

The Christ child was Immanuel—God with us. Shouldn’t sinners be terrified at his arrival?

Yet the coming of Christ into the world is announced as good news.

Scripture warns that we are to fear him. But we also are to love and trust him. How so?

We should be afraid to defy him but very happy that he came.

The good news is that he came not to destroy but to rescue. The angel told Joseph to name him Jesus “Because he shall save his people from their sins.”

That mission was completed under the dark skies of Golgotha. When he comes again, the skies will light up as he comes to finally bring his people home, body and soul.

In another December, three years later, Americans faced another deadly attack. This time they were in the Ardennes of Belgium. Surrounded, cold, and almost out of ammunition, they fixed their eyes upon cloud-laden skies that kept rescue from coming.

This time, they wanted to see planes fill the skies. They prayed to see the planes. They sent out a cheer when the first one was spotted. Desperately needed supplies were dropped. Rescue was at hand! We call that the “Battle of the Bulge.” It brought victory.

So, it will be when those in service to the King of kings spot the cloud in the sky that brings in Jesus with a display of power and great glory.

We call that the end of the world. We await that day with excited joy, not fear. This will be the breakout day of the final rescue.

An old song carries the words, “And man shall live forevermore because of Christmas Day.”

When we were very young, we may have been asked, “And what would you like for Christmas?” Maybe we answered with a long list of toys. But there was probably one item at the top of the list. That’s the one our heart was set upon.

Today, we would answer with a different list, but maybe as long of a list as back then. After all, there are so many things that we need—and many more that we would like.

But at the top of today’s list, would we not want to place “The peace that surpasses all understanding”? This is the peace between our God and us. This is the peace that Jesus bought and paid for.

This is the peace the angels sang about. The peace we need for ourselves and we want for our loved ones.

This is the peace we have looked for—this is the one only the Prince of Peace can bring.

That’s why we can close the Christmas carol with the words, “Sleep in heavenly peace, Sleep in heavenly peace.”

One day angels will wake us with, “Heads up! Jesus, the Savior, has come!”

We watch for that day.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, you came as the Prince of Peace to reconcile us to the holy almighty God. Thank you for the “heads up” to watch for when you will come again. Amen.

Points to ponder:

In what way can we compare the Last Day to Pearl Harbor?
What has changed in our lives that makes us now treasure perfect peace?
In what ways can we compare the Last Day to the Battle of the Bulge?

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.

A Judge for All People – December 16, 2022

2022/12/16/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

In that day the Root of Jesse will stand as a banner for the peoples; the nations will rally to him, and his resting place will be glorious.
Isaiah 11:10

A Judge for All People

Daily Devotion – December 16, 2022

Devotion based on Isaiah 11:10

See series: Devotions

Judges have jurisdictions. A state court judge has no right to decide cases involving federal law. Nor do federal court judges have the right to decide cases involving state law. A judge in a Florida state court cannot decide cases involving Tennessee state laws. Nor can the judge of a court in Bangladesh decide cases involving the laws of Senegal. When deciding cases, judges must remain within their jurisdiction. Otherwise, their judgments have no standing.

The judgments that Jesus, our judge, makes are momentous. He acquits the repentant sinner who trusts in him for forgiveness. He condemns the unrepentant sinner who refuses to trust in him. But over whom does Jesus have jurisdiction to make these judgments?

In our Bible reading for today, the prophet Isaiah shows us that Jesus holds jurisdiction over all people. It doesn’t matter in what city, state, province, or nation a person lives. Regardless of any jurisdictional lines that separate courts on earth, Jesus holds jurisdiction over everyone, without exception.

This means that the justice that Jesus offers is available to all people. No matter who you are or where your earthly citizenship lies, the acquittal that Jesus offers through faith in him applies to you. The life he lived to win perfection for all people he lived for you. The death he died to pay for the sins of all people; he died for your sins. No one anywhere in any earthly jurisdiction is excluded from the acquittal that Jesus won for all people, including you.

And because Jesus holds jurisdiction over all people, you can be confident that his judgment will stand. You do not need to fear that you will reach the end of your life only to find that Jesus didn’t have standing to acquit you of your sins. His verdicts will never be overturned. When he says, “You are forgiven,” you can count on it.

No wonder Isaiah says that the nations will rally to him! How can we not rally around such a gracious and glorious judge?!

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, all glory and praise to you for so graciously acquitting me of all my sins. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

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.

Advent Devotion – Come, Lord Jesus – Day 15

2022/12/15/in Womens Advent Devotions, Womens Devotions

Come Into My Old Age

Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.
Isaiah 46:4

I dread the coming of winter a little more each year when the cold, snow, ice, shortened hours of daylight, and lengthened hours of dark loom. Now that I am in the winter of my life, I wonder how many dark days of challenges and isolation await me.

My mother, at 98, often asks, “Why am I still here?” Her body will not allow her to do all she used to do. She doesn’t see a purpose to her life. Even still, she continues to witness to her family the importance of regular worship and daily prayer.

My body often reminds me of my advanced age. God, who made me, promised to be with me, even carry me when my body is weak. He will sustain me, keeping me in the true saving faith that cannot be lost or taken from me.

Jesus came to rescue sinners. From his birth to his final “It is finished!” cry, his focus remained on his Father’s mission. I must also keep my eyes focused on Jesus, who is waiting with open arms to welcome me home. Until then, my purpose is to share that message of salvation with my children, grandchildren, and others.

Prayer:

Dear heavenly Father, thank you for keeping your promise to send Jesus to rescue me from sin. Help me trust your promise to carry me through my life. Sustain my faith until you bring me to be with you forever. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Written by Bev Fulmer
Provided by WELS Women’s Ministry

During Advent, we eagerly wait and prepare our hearts for the celebration of his birth AND the time when he comes again. WELS Womens Ministry invites you to join us for daily devotion e-mails in the month of December to prepare your hearts for Jesus’ birth.

Devotion based on Isaiah 11:6-8

See series: Devotions

A Judge Who Brings Peace – December 15, 2022

2022/12/15/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat, the calf and the lion and the yearling together; and a little child will lead them. The cow will feed with the bear, their young will lie down together, and the lion will eat straw like the ox. The infant will play near the cobra’s den, and the young child will put its hand into the viper’s nest.
Isaiah 11:6-8

A Judge Who Brings Peace

Daily Devotion – December 15, 2022

In 1361, the British Parliament passed the Justices of the Peace Act, formally establishing the office of justice of the peace. Justices of the peace had the responsibility of maintaining peace in the British sovereign’s realm. They had authority to arrest, prosecute, and punish offenders, rioters, and anyone who disturbed the peace. However, they did not have the responsibility of establishing peace in the first place. In fact, the role of the justice of the peace as a preserver of peace assumed that peace already had been established.

Jesus is far more than a justice of the peace. He is the judge who establishes peace. Wolves and lambs normally do not live together in peace. Wolves eat lambs, and lambs flee from wolves. A child playing near venomous snakes is a parent’s nightmare, not a usual occurrence. Yet, under the rule of Jesus our judge, such things do happen. There is peace where otherwise there would be none.

All of this is a picture of the greatest peace that Jesus brings, peace between God and us sinners. Apart from Jesus, there is no peace between God and us. Our sinfulness made us, by nature, perpetual rebels against God. On our own, we wanted nothing to do with any sort of peace with God. But God wanted peace with us. So, he sent his Son, Jesus to establish peace with us. Jesus, by his perfect life and innocent death on our behalf, removed the cause of hostility between God and us. He removed our sin. By doing that, he established peace where before there had been none.

Now we, who once were at war with God, are at peace with him through Jesus, our judge who brings peace. Continue trusting in Jesus, and you will enjoy his peace forever.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, thank you for establishing peace between God and me. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

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.

Advent Devotion – Come, Lord Jesus – Day 14

2022/12/14/in Womens Advent Devotions, Womens Devotions

Come Into My Perspective

You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.
Jeremiah 29:13

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year!” The presents are wrapped in shiny paper and Hallmark movies stream all December long. The house smells of delicious desserts! It really is wonderful, isn’t it?

There’s just one issue. My heart seeks the perfect holiday season yet somehow still comes up short. I’ve bought a present for everyone on my list but still find myself seeking more. No matter how impressive my house looks, I still search for something extra to make it more impressive.

Read the words from Jeremiah again. “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” When we seek God! My heart is so wrapped up in this world, and too often, he is the last thing that I seek. The verse says, “all your heart.” I struggle to give him a portion.

To seek God is to open his Word and meditate on it. Seek and you will find his goodness, his peace, his comfort, his heart-mending, and his ever comforting and gracious love. Keep seeking Jesus and the hustle and bustle that the world is obsessed with will diminish. Seek the Lord with all your heart and encourage others to do the same. When we seek to experience the perfect holiday season but leave out the One whose heart beats for us, we fall short of the most perfect holiday celebration.

Prayer:

Dear Jesus, you are wonderful. Forgive me for making this season about everything but you. Help me seek you first with all my heart. Help me be an example to those around me, so that more voices can proclaim your praise this season and always. Amen.

Written by Jennifer Mueller
Provided by WELS Women’s Ministry

During Advent, we eagerly wait and prepare our hearts for the celebration of his birth AND the time when he comes again. WELS Womens Ministry invites you to join us for daily devotion e-mails in the month of December to prepare your hearts for Jesus’ birth.

I’m Too Busy to be Patient – December 14, 2022

2022/12/14/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: James 5:7-11

Therefore, brothers, be patient until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the valuable harvest from the ground, patiently waiting for it, until it receives the early and late rain. You be patient too. Strengthen your hearts because the coming of the Lord is near.
James 5:7,8

I’m Too Busy to be Patient

Devotion based on James 5:7,8

See series: Devotions

Family Devotion – December 14, 2022

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

It’s a joke that your pastor has probably heard a few times, the kind of joke that is funny enough to tell at a potluck—and true enough to mention in a sermon: “Be careful when you pray for patience. The last time I prayed for patience, I got stuck in a traffic jam for two hours!”

Patience doesn’t come naturally for any of us. We know what we want, and when we want it:

If we’re meeting friends at the park, I want to go—now! And I don’t need a nap.
Do you open the microwave when there are five seconds left rather than wait for it to beep?
When you’re in line at a store, do you scan the lines to see which one is moving quicker and wish you had picked that one?

Patience. We learn patience in everyday life, and God uses the time of Advent to teach us patience. Advent is the time of waiting for Christmas—the time of patiently waiting for our celebration of Christ’s birth. We wait, patiently, as we look forward to God’s promises fulfilled.

Doesn’t that describe our Christian life?

We patiently wait for God to do everything that he has promised to do. We humbly bow our heads and set aside our schedule; we admit that God knows better than we do, that God’s timing is better than ours, and that we simply wait for God to do everything he has promised.

That’s exactly what James talks about in our second reading: “Therefore, brothers, be patient until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the valuable harvest from the ground, patiently waiting for it, until it receives the early and late rain. You be patient too. Strengthen your hearts because the coming of the Lord is near.”

Patience doesn’t come naturally—not to any of us. But patience is exactly what God gives. Patience is the attitude of faith that recognizes: It might not come on my schedule, or in exactly the way I had hoped—but I have a Lord who has promised me everything that I need, at the best time and in the best way possible. He has proven it in the past with the coming of his Son; he teaches me patience today as we await Christmas; and together, the Christian Church waits patiently for Christ’s return.

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, teach me patience—and teach me to trust your timing in all things, even as we look forward to the celebration of your birth. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

What’s something that you have to wait for?
How can waiting for something be a good thing?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Why do you think that most people aren’t very patient?
Think of a farmer who plants a field of corn or wheat. Why does he have to be patient? What will happen if he isn’t patient?

Questions for Middle School and Above

How can we practice more patience (or learn more patience) in our family?
Think of the Fourth Petition to the Lord’s Prayer, “Give us this day our daily bread.” How does God both teach and give patience in this petition?

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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.

A Judge Who Judges Righteously – December 14, 2022

2022/12/14/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

He will not judge by what he sees with his eyes, or decide by what he hears with his ears; but with righteousness he will judge the needy, with justice he will give decisions for the poor of the earth.
Isaiah 11:3,4

A Judge Who Judges Righteously

Daily Devotion – December 14, 2022

Devotion based on Isaiah 11:3,4

See series: Devotions

Impartiality is essential for a judge to carry out his work properly. When deciding a case, a judge cannot allow himself to be swayed by the wealth, power, or status that he sees in one party over against the other party. He must base his decision solely on an honest weighing of the evidence presented to him. This is why justice often is portrayed as a blindfolded woman holding scales and a sword.

It’s tragic when an innocent person is convicted, or a guilty person is acquitted in a courtroom.
Thankfully, injustice is impossible in God’s courtroom. Jesus, our judge, judges all things with righteousness. Like Lady Justice, Jesus is portrayed as not being swayed in his judgment by appearances. “He will not judge by what he sees with his eyes.” Nor will he be swayed by people’s subjective testimony, which may or may not be true. He will not “decide by what he hears with his ears.” Instead, he will render his judgments based solely on what is true and just. “With righteousness he will judge the needy, with justice he will give decisions for the poor of the earth.”

But what truth will he weigh in his scales? First, he will weigh the truth of what he accomplished for all people. He will recognize the reality that by his life, death, and resurrection, he has won forgiveness of sins for all people. He then will recognize the reality that all those who believe in him claim that forgiveness as their own and will publicly acquit them. He also will recognize the reality that all those who refuse to believe in him have rejected that forgiveness and condemn than as their sins deserve.

All who trust in Jesus for forgiveness have nothing to fear from Jesus’ judgment. Jesus is a judge who judges righteously. Nothing will sway him from rendering the verdict that he knows is right. And for all those who trust in him, there will be only one verdict: You are not guilty. You are acquitted.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I praise you for your justice, which means my acquittal before you. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

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.

Advent Devotion – Come, Lord Jesus – Day 13

2022/12/13/in Womens Advent Devotions, Womens Devotions

Come Into Our Relationships

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.”
Matthew 5:43-45

On Christmas Eve 1914, soldiers in the trenches of the Western Front huddled on opposing sides. That is until someone decided to sing a carol. Others on the German side joined in, and soon the Brits across the field were adding their voices. Finally, a voice called out, “Come over here!” Another voice called back, “Meet me halfway!”

Nervously a man from the German side met a man from the British ranks. Instead of exchanging bullets, they shook hands. Soon men from both sides were meeting in the middle, laughing, and wishing one another a Merry Christmas.

Christmas seems like as good a time as any to meet our enemies in the middle. No doubt there have been differences of opinion. Ill-timed and cringeworthy words have been uttered. Feelings have been hurt.

And yet, if one man singing a carol could convert a battlefield to a social setting, surely one text, one card, one sentence or kind thought could be an impetus that just might result in a cease-fire.

Maybe your goodwill will fall flat. Maybe it will be thrown back in your face. Even so, send it with a prayer that God replaces hate with love. It may not cause immediate change, but it might start to turn the tide.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, give us the grace to get past the pain and to act in love. Heal our hurts and bind broken hearts as only you can do. Amen.

Written by Amber Albee Swenson
Provided by WELS Women’s Ministry

During Advent, we eagerly wait and prepare our hearts for the celebration of his birth AND the time when he comes again. WELS Womens Ministry invites you to join us for daily devotion e-mails in the month of December to prepare your hearts for Jesus’ birth.

Devotion based on Matthew 3:7,8,10

See series: Devotions

A Judge Who Condemns the Unrepentant – December 13, 2022

2022/12/13/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to where he was baptizing, he said to them: “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? Produce fruit in keeping with repentance . . . The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.”
Matthew 3:7,8,10

A Judge Who Condemns the Unrepentant

Daily Devotion – December 13, 2022

Of all the people who came to hear John preach, the Pharisees and the Sadducees should have been the first to take his message to heart. They, after all, were the recognized religious authorities of the Jewish people. They knew God’s law and all his promises to send the Savior. They should have been among the first to recognize the truth of John’s message, confess their sins, and look for forgiveness to the Messiah John was proclaiming.

Sadly, that is not what they did. You can tell from the way John responded when they came to him. Instead of assuring them of their acquittal before God, John warned that their destruction was imminent. Just as a fruit tree that refuses to produce fruit is in danger of being cut down and thrown into the fire, these Pharisees and Sadducees were in danger of falling under God’s judgment.

The Pharisees and Sadducees did not believe that they had any need for repentance. They had convinced themselves that they didn’t have anything that they needed to confess to God. Because they refused to recognize their need for the forgiveness that God offered them in Jesus, they cut themselves off from the acquittal Jesus won for them. For them, Jesus came as a judge who condemns the unrepentant.

The Pharisees and Sadducees stand as a warning for us today. All of us are capable of doing what they did, rejecting the acquittal that Jesus won for us. If we do that, then Jesus becomes for us as well a judge who condemns the unrepentant. That is not what Jesus wants to be for us. He gave his life so that he could be the judge who acquits us. And that is what he is when we continue with God’s help to trust in him for forgiveness.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, keep me from ever rejecting the forgiveness that you have won for me. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

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.

Advent Devotion – Come, Lord Jesus – Day 12

2022/12/12/in Womens Advent Devotions, Womens Devotions

Come Into the Public Square

I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.
1 Timothy 2:1,2

I teach kindergarten. I recently heard one of my little ones say this phrase: “I did it accidentally on purpose.”

I wasn’t sure what that meant. I think they were saying they wished they could chalk up the thing they did to being an accident, but really it is exactly the thing they wished to do.

Kind of like saying unkind words to my husband. Or driving too closely to the car in front of me. Or not helping the person that I could and should help.

Maybe you’ve accidentally on purpose made some comments about those who run the country. First Timothy 2:1-2 says, “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”

That is going to sound different. Instead of cutting down, we’ll remember who is in control. Instead of wasting precious energy fretting and complaining with others, we should point to a God far above worldly thrones.

Prayer:

Dear Jesus, too often I have been self-centered, rude, thoughtless, and unkind. Forgive me. Help me to point all people to you. Remind me that I am your witness and souls are at stake. In your precious name I pray. Amen.

Written by Rebekah Thoma
Provided by WELS Women’s Ministry

During Advent, we eagerly wait and prepare our hearts for the celebration of his birth AND the time when he comes again. WELS Womens Ministry invites you to join us for daily devotion e-mails in the month of December to prepare your hearts for Jesus’ birth.

See series: ECME Devotions

The Messiah is Worth the Wait – Week of December 12, 2022

2022/12/12/in Devotions, ECME Devotions

The Messiah is Worth the Wait – Week of December 12, 2022

Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near.
James 5:7-8

ECME Devotion December 12, 2022

Did you know that throughout their lifetime, the average person spends five years waiting in lines? That’s a long time to wait! We wait in line at the grocery store, at the gas pump, at a stoplight. We are people that are used to waiting.

Today, God’s Word encourages us to wait for the Lord as farmers wait for the harvest. Why a farmer, you ask? Well, I think we have a lot to learn from farmers and the way in which they wait.

You see, farmers are some of the most patient and skillful “waiters” in society. They are forced to wait for months to see the fruits of their labor. They don’t just sit around and do nothing, but rather they work while they are waiting. They trust in God’s provision while they wait. They don’t give up waiting when times are hard. Farmers have a lot to teach us about waiting.

Sometimes, we want God to go by our own timeline. We can begin to think that he has forgotten us. In truth, there is so much beauty in the wait. God is growing and strengthening us, just as the crops, as we wait for his timeline to be revealed.

God also has work for us to do in the wait. Just as the farmer works the fields in the wait, we also have important work to do as we wait for Jesus’ return. We are spreading the seed and watering the faith of ourselves and those around us while we look for the coming of the Messiah.

While we wait, we can trust that God will provide for us just as he sends rain for the farmer’s crops. Even when times are hard, we need not give up, because we know God’s promises are always true and that he is coming to take us home with him in heaven.

Advent is a time of waiting. As humans, we are used to the wait, but that doesn’t always make it easy. Scripture gives us incredible encouragement today in James. “…be patient, and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near.” Brother and sisters, find beauty in the wait, work in the wait, trust in the wait. Rest assured that God keeps his promises. The Messiah is coming for us!

Prayer:
O Come, O Come Emmanuel
CW21 327:3-4 / CW93 23:3-4

O come, O Dayspring, from on high,
and cheer us by your drawing nigh;
disperse the gloomy clouds of night,
and death’s dark shadows put to flight.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Immanuel
shall come to you, O Israel.

O come, O Key of David, come,
and open wide our heav’nly home;
make safe the way that leads on high,
and close the path to misery.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Immanuel
shall come to you, O Israel.

Early Childhood Ministry Educator’s (ECME) Devotions are brought to you by WELS Commission on Lutheran Schools.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

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.

Surprise! Things Don’t Always Happen That Way . . . Do They? – December 12, 2022

2022/12/12/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Isaiah 35:1-10

The eyes of the blind will be opened, and the ears of the deaf will be unplugged. The crippled will leap like a deer, and the tongue of the mute will sing for joy. Waters will flow in the wilderness, and streams in the wasteland. The burning sand will become a pool, and in the thirsty ground there will be springs of water. . . . A highway will be there, a road that will be called the holy way. The impure will not walk there. It will be reserved for those who walk in that holy way . . . and the redeemed will walk there.
Isaiah 35:5-8

Surprise! Things Don’t Always Happen That Way . . . Do They?

Devotion based on Isaiah 35:5-8

See series: Devotions

Family Devotion – December 12, 2022

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Surprising. Unexpected. Impossible.

That is what makes a story, a movie, or a TV show interesting. The reader is surprised when Charlotte spins a web, and Wilbur lives out his days on Zuckerman’s farm. The movie plays out with the unexpected servant girl becoming a royal bride, or the impossible problem is miraculously solved. When something is surprising, unexpected, or impossible—it catches our eyes, our interest, our hearts.

In our reading from Isaiah chapter 35, God talks about some things that are surprising, unexpected, even impossible: The blind can see? The deaf are able to hear again? Those who can’t walk—now can run, and jump, and play soccer? Someone who cannot talk . . . sings praises to God?

That sounds impossible. That’s just not going to happen!

But that is exactly what God promises in our reading today. And God is completely certain that he will do the impossible, the unexpected, and the surprising. He says that he’ll turn the desert sand into a place where people swim, and—most importantly of all—he’ll build a highway in that wasteland. Wow, talk about surprising! God will build a highway . . . so that you, his baptized and beloved child, will have a clear path through life to eternity.

God didn’t use a spider’s web or a movie’s princess. God sent his promised Messiah, exactly as he promised: “The eyes of the blind will be opened, and the ears of the deaf will be unplugged. The crippled will leap like a deer, and the tongue of the mute will sing for joy. Waters will flow in the wilderness, and streams in the wasteland. The burning sand will become a pool, and in the thirsty ground there will be springs of water. . . . A highway will be there, a road that will be called the holy way. The impure will not walk there. It will be reserved for those who walk in that holy way . . . and the redeemed will walk there.”

That is God’s surprising, impossible, unexpected promise: His Messiah has come to save you, and this Messiah has come to change your life today—and your eternity tomorrow. God did the impossible by sending his Son, and God did the impossible by giving you faith in Holy Baptism. God did the impossible by placing you on the way to heaven, and God will continue to do the impossible by keeping you on that path.

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, you promised to come in vengeance and to do the surprising, unexpected, and impossible. You raised yourself from the dead and baptized me into your household of faith. Keep me on your highway of grace. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

What is something impossible that God talked about in today’s reading?
Name something that seems impossible at the moment for you, and let’s pray about it.

Questions for Elementary Age Children

What is the most impossible or surprising thing God ever did?
From your own memory, name one or two “impossible” things Jesus did. What do we call these “impossible” deeds?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Identify something impossible that God accomplished in your own life. (For a hint, consider Luther’s explanation to the Third Article: “I believe that I cannot, by my own thinking or choosing, believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to him. But the Holy Spirit has called me by the gospel . . .”)
This reading finishes with God’s promised forgiveness through the Messiah. Why do you think God spent so much time describing the impossible things that the Messiah would accomplish, before finally describing the forgiveness that Messiah would win?

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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.

A Judge Who Acquits the Repentant – December 12, 2022

2022/12/12/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” . . . People went out to him from Jerusalem and all Judea and the whole region of the Jordan. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River.
Matthew 3:1,2,5,6

A Judge Who Acquits the Repentant

Daily Devotion – December 12, 2022

Devotion based on Matthew 3:1,2,5,6

See series: Devotions

Confessing a crime to a judge does not mean you won’t be punished for that crime. By confessing, you are admitting that you did something worthy of punishment. The judge may take your confession into account when he hands down your sentence. But a less severe punishment is still a punishment. Confession normally does not lead to acquittal.

Yet, for the people who went out from Jerusalem to hear John the Baptist preach, confession did lead to acquittal. As they listened to John the Baptist preach, God convicted them of the many sins that they had committed against him. He worked in them a godly sorrow over their sins that led them to confess their sins to John. In response, John, on God’s behalf, did something remarkable. He told the people that they were forgiven. They were acquitted. They would not suffer the punishment they deserved for their sins.

How could John do that? Even more, how could God do that? Doesn’t a judge have to punish the guilty? So how could God acquit these people who had admitted that they were guilty?

He could do it because, as John proclaimed, “The kingdom of heaven has come near.” Jesus, God’s Son, had come. Jesus was the one whom God had chosen to suffer the punishment for the sins of all people. That was why he had come. And that is what he would accomplish through his perfect life and his innocent death on the cross.

The work Jesus did for the acquittal of the people who confessed their sins to John, he also did for us. Yes, Jesus came as a judge. But he is a judge who, by his own work on our behalf, has won acquittal for all our sins. Hear God’s call to repentance through John. Confess your sins. Trust in Jesus. Know that in him, you have been acquitted.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I praise you that in you I stand acquitted. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

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.

Advent Devotion – Come, Lord Jesus – Day 11

2022/12/11/in Womens Advent Devotions, Womens Devotions

Come Into Our Homes

If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.
Matthew 18:6

We stumble as we lose our balance. It can hurt and leave us embarrassed by our clumsiness.

Jesus used strong language to tell the disciples about the dire consequences of causing a child to stumble. He’s not talking about tripping or pushing; he’s talking about causing spiritual stumbling.

As Christmas approaches there is much to sidetrack our children (and ourselves): pretty lights, wishing for or shopping for presents, movies, and parties. Vigilant parents are challenged to keep the focus on Jesus, his birth, and his eventual return.

We can help stumble-proof our children by having (or starting) traditions and quiet time with family: devotions that focus on Christ and God’s Word, a Bible-reading plan in an Advent calendar, or reading Old Testament prophecies using a Jesse Tree. Sing carols or read some of the messianic psalms.

When my family decided to focus more on the Bible side of Christmas, it took several years for our children to “get used to” the new traditions. But once they did, we saw their spiritual muscles pump up.

There are many obstacles in our path to trip up our children. Avoid stumbling by keeping eyes on the Savior!

Prayer:

Lord, the road is pitted with potholes. Help us stay focused on you as we lead our children in celebrating your birth and looking forward to your return. Fill our hearts with joy as we look forward to seeing your face in heaven! Amen.

Written by Deb Hofland
Provided by WELS Women’s Ministry

During Advent, we eagerly wait and prepare our hearts for the celebration of his birth AND the time when he comes again. WELS Womens Ministry invites you to join us for daily devotion e-mails in the month of December to prepare your hearts for Jesus’ birth.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Transformed – teen devotion – December 11, 2022

2022/12/11/in Teen Devotions

One truth shared: Everyone struggles with doubt, but we can find comfort in our Savior Jesus who handles our doubt with love and compassion.

When John, who was in prison, heard about the deeds of the Messiah, he sent his disciples to ask him, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?” Jesus replied, “Go back and report to John what you hear and see: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor. Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.” As John’s disciples were leaving, Jesus began to speak to the crowd about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed swayed by the wind? If not, what did you go out to see? A man dressed in fine clothes? No, those who wear fine clothes are in kings’ palaces. Then what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. This is the one about whom it is written: “ ‘I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.’ Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist; yet whoever is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.”
Matthew 11:2-11‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

Dealing with Doubt

Doubt. The devil loves to create it in the heart and mind of every person—doubt about God and his promises. It’s what he used in the garden of Eden. He questioned Adam and Eve and caused them to doubt God’s words as well as his goodness and love for them.

Doubt is the devil’s greatest power. He uses whatever he can—fine sounding arguments, challenges in life, etc.—to raise questions in our mind. He works through anybody he can—teachers, professors, bosses, coworkers, friends, and even family—to make us doubt the words of God that he gives us in the Bible.

And the devil shows no partiality. He attacks everyone, unbelievers and believers, people of weak faith or those of strong faith.

John the Baptist was one of those guys who was strong in faith. He was the forerunner for the Messiah. He confronted religious leaders and kings and called them to repentance. He pointed people to their Savior, the Messiah. But the devil attacked him too. He preyed on John when John was thrown into prison. He created doubts in John’s mind causing him to ask, “Jesus, are you the one sent to save us—or not?”

How did Jesus respond to John’s doubts? How does Jesus respond to your doubts? Look at today’s Bible verses from the Gospel of Matthew. Jesus doesn’t scold us and tell us that we should know better. He doesn’t humiliate us either. Instead, he points back to the evidence of his works and his Word. He assures us that he is indeed the Messiah that was long promised in the Bible. He encourages us and reminds us that as children of God we are among the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. He sweeps away our doubts and strengthens our faith.

When you struggle with doubt, take heart! Your Savior Jesus loves you. He came to die for you and his blood covers your doubts. He comes to you with compassion and understanding when you doubt. His words give you assurance that he is indeed the long-promised Messiah and you are his dear child.

Prayer: Merciful Savior, we praise you for looking on us with compassion when we doubt. Forgive us when we doubt your Word, and assure us of your grace and unfailing love. Amen.

Teen Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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.

How long, O Lord – December 11, 2022

2022/12/11/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near.
James 5:7,8

How long, O Lord

Daily Devotion – December 11, 2022

Devotion based on James 5:7,8

See series: Devotions

You were fired from your job because you refused to participate in unethical behavior. Your friends stopped hanging out with you because you turned down an invitation to an underage drinking party. Your spouse ridicules you for getting up and going to church on Sunday mornings. When a faculty member finds out you are a Christian, he speaks of you as narrow-minded and unscientific and seeks to undermine your credibility.

At times the life of a Christian is difficult. Suffering because we are connected with Christ is not easy. Giving up and abandoning Christ seems like the easier choice. We may think, “Why keep putting myself through this?”

Christians of all generations have suffered in one way or another for their faith. It’s hard. It’s not fun. It challenges our patience and willingness to stand firm and stay true to Christ. To the outsider it may make Christianity unattractive.

Yet here’s the perspective we cannot forget. The Lord is coming back and will restore and reward all those who have clung to Jesus in faith for forgiveness of their sins. The blessing of heaven will far outweigh challenges we encounter in this life because of our faith. “The Lord is full of compassion and mercy” (James 5:11).

The farmer suffers through long days and nights of planting. He fixes machinery when it breaks. He works hard to save crops after hail and storms. Yet he doesn’t give up because the reward of the crop is worth it.

Don’t give up. The Lord will return. Know that you will be blessed as you have persevered!

Prayer: (Psalm 119:107)
I have suffered much; preserve my life, O Lord, according to your word. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

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.

Advent Devotion – Come, Lord Jesus – Day 10

2022/12/10/in Womens Advent Devotions, Womens Devotions

Come Into the Lives of Prodigals

I will search for the lost and bring back the strays. I will bind up the injured and strengthen the weak, but the sleek and the strong I will destroy. I will shepherd the flock with justice.
Ezekiel 34:16

The last several years have brought me more and more prodigal situations. Perhaps you’ve seen them in your life as well. COVID brought excuses for us to not gather for worship. Some were genuinely necessary. Many were not. The pandemic made things uncomfortable and created challenges our generation hadn’t experienced before.

No matter what, God is faithful. We can find strength knowing God’s heart is to bind up the injured and strengthen the weak. He has not forgotten them! He loves them even more than we do.

All too often, I’m reminded of my daily dependence on God. I am not above becoming the prodigal. These last years remind me I rarely have everything figured out. In my own ways I’ve silently pushed Jesus away from my daily life. I say “Come, Lord Jesus.” But too often my actions say, “Go away, Lord Jesus.”

Keep praying for your prodigals and asking for opportunities to show the love of Jesus. Who, other than God, knows what may be happening in their lives? In all things we pray for God to bind up and strengthen and bring them back to him.

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Prayer:

Dear Lord, restore your straying sheep. Holy Spirit, work in mighty ways to bring them back. Come, Lord Jesus, and protect us from everything that keeps us from you. Amen.

Your Christmas List – December 10, 2022

2022/12/10/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 15:13

Your Christmas List

Daily Devotion – December 10, 2022

Devotion based on Romans 15:13

See series: Devotions

Are you finished with your Christmas list? Not the Christmas list that includes all of the presents that you intend to buy for everyone else, not the Christmas list that allows you to cross off a name once a purchase is complete, not the Christmas list that constantly reminds you of the one person who is so difficult to shop for. Are you finished with your own Christmas list—the list of presents you would like to receive? Children are great at making such lists, but if you were to make one, what would be on the top of the list? What present would you like to receive this Christmas?

How about hope? Would that be on your list?

How about joy? Would that be on your list?

How about peace? Would that be on your list?

If these gifts are on your list, where could they be purchased? Who could buy them for you? Who would give them to you?

Whether they are on your list or not, these gifts are yours. The God of hope gave them to you. His Son bought them at a place called Calvary and paid for them with his precious blood and with his innocent death. Through Jesus, God gave you the sure hope of eternal life in heaven. He gave you the joy of a close relationship with him based on his gift of peace through the full and free forgiveness of your sins.

These are better than any gifts you will receive this Christmas!

Prayer:
God of hope, fill me with all joy and peace as I trust in you so that I may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

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.

Advent Devotion – Come, Lord Jesus – Day 9

2022/12/09/in Womens Advent Devotions, Womens Devotions

Come Into Our Old Age

Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.
Isaiah 46:4

My mother’s Savior first came to her when she lay cuddled in her mother’s arms—baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The pastor spoke as he poured the water from the baptismal font over her infant head. He traced the sign of the cross over her head and heart. “Come, Lord Jesus,” and Jesus came in the water and the Word to create new life within her and make her his own dear, redeemed child.

My mother’s Savior came many more times throughout her life of 92 years. There were times of trial and sorrow when he came and strengthened and helped her; times when fear and dismay became overwhelming. “Come, Lord Jesus,” and Jesus came in Word and sacrament to forgive, sustain, and comfort.

A week after Christmas, after an Advent season peppered with prayers of “Come, Lord Jesus,” Mom entered hospice care upon her return from the hospital to the nursing home. We prayed and celebrated the Christ Child’s coming on that first Christmas with eager expectation of Christ’s return to earth on the Last Day. Through tears and much prayer, we prayed he would come and take Mom home to heaven. And Jesus came to rescue and release. Advent prayers were answered.
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Prayer:

Heavenly Father, many wait on you. Keep faith strong and hearts fixed on you as you choose the day and hour to bring your loved ones to your side. Hold us and hear us until you return. Amen.

Written by Susanne Hanson
Provided by WELS Women’s Ministry

During Advent, we eagerly wait and prepare our hearts for the celebration of his birth AND the time when he comes again. WELS Womens Ministry invites you to join us for daily devotion e-mails in the month of December to prepare your hearts for Jesus’ birth.

Let’s get ready for the King of peace – December 9, 2022

2022/12/09/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Matthew 3:1-12

In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah:

“A voice of one calling in the wilderness,
‘Prepare the way for the Lord,
make straight paths for him.’”

John’s clothes were made of camel’s hair, and he had a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey. People went out to him from Jerusalem and all Judea and the whole region of the Jordan. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River.
Matthew 3:1-6

Let’s get ready for the King of peace

Devotion based on >Matthew 3:1-6

See series: Devotions

Family Devotion – December 9, 2022

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Don’t you hate it when you get caught doing something wrong? We don’t want other people to know about our sins. We’re ashamed of them, and so we try to hide our guilt so no one finds out.

But look what happened when John the Baptist arrived. John was the last great prophet that God sent to prepare people for Jesus. And as John preached, people lined up just to be able to confess their sins! They were eager to admit the things they did wrong. Imagine that!

But why?

When they heard John’s preaching, they realized that they could try to hide their sins, but that doesn’t get rid of them. It’s like pushing a splinter deeper into your finger because you’re too scared to pull it out: it’s just going to make the problem worse. And they weren’t there just to admit they did bad things. John was baptizing them. He was washing them with water and promising them that God forgave all their sins. That’s how he got people ready for Jesus: he told them to confess their sins and told them that Jesus was bringing forgiveness.

As we get ready for Christmas, there are so many things to do: we wrap presents and get the house ready for visitors or help our family make a big dinner. Those are wonderful things, but that’s not really what it means to be ready for Jesus. Do you want to be ready for him? Then be honest about the sins you’ve done; there’s no point in hiding them and no reason to hold onto that guilt. Sometimes that’s hard to do—almost as hard as knocking down mountains or straightening out crooked roads. But there’s a reason why we want to get those things out of the way: Because Jesus is coming to share forgiveness and peace with us and to wash us clean from our sins.

Closing Prayer:

Jesus, you didn’t come to bring us guilt, but to take guilt away. You didn’t come to fill me with sadness, but with peace. So help me to recognize that my guilt, my fear and my sadness all come from my sins. As I confess those sins, fill me with your peace. As we remember your birth this Christmas, give me faith that this peace is really for me. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

What made John the Baptist look different?
What was John’s message?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

After the people confessed their sins, what did John do for them?
What does God do for us in baptism?

Questions for Middle School and Above

John the Baptist told people they needed to repent. Why do you think so many people were eager to confess their sins?
Why is it helpful for us to think about our baptisms?