Jesus’ Sheep Listen to Him – May 10, 2022

“You do not believe because you are not my sheep. My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.”
John 10:26,27

Jesus’ Sheep Listen to Him

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Daily Devotion – May 10, 2022

Devotion based on John 10:26,27

See series: Devotions

A group of tourists was visiting a farm in Norway when the farmer took them to see his sheep. The farmer taught the group the call he used to summon his sheep. He then allowed three of the tourists to try to use that call to summon the sheep. The first tourist stepped up to the fence and gave the call. The sheep just kept grazing as if nothing had happened. The second tourist gave the call. The sheep still just kept grazing. The third tourist took her turn, still nothing. None of those voices could summon the sheep, even though they gave the farmer’s call.

Finally, the farmer himself stepped up to the fence and gave his call. Immediately, the sheep stopped grazing and looked up. He gave his call again. The sheep looked directly at him. A couple more calls from the shepherd and the entire herd ran toward him. The farmer was able to do what no one else could do because his sheep recognized his voice and would follow only him.

The people who had gathered around Jesus refused to believe that he was the Messiah, even though he clearly had told them that he was the Messiah. To Jesus, this was not surprising. They were not his sheep, so how could they listen to him? If they were his sheep, they would listen to him because sheep know their shepherd’s voice. When the sheep hear their shepherd’s call, they eagerly follow him.

We are Jesus’ sheep when we believe in him. When God the Holy Spirit leads us to trust in Jesus as our Savior, he opens our ears to recognize Jesus’ voice. We hear Jesus speaking to us in his Word. We hear how he rescued us from all our sins through his perfect life and his death on the cross. We hear his promise always to care for us and bring us safely home to him in heaven. Like sheep who know their shepherd’s voice, we recognize Jesus’ voice and eagerly follow him wherever he may lead us.

Prayer:
Jesus, my Shepherd, I praise you that you have opened my ears to hear and recognize your voice. Lead me to follow you always. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
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.
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A Guarantee You Can Trust – Family Devotion – May 9, 2022

Read: Acts 13:15-16a,26-39

God raised him from the dead so that he will never be subject to decay. As God has said, “I will give you the holy and sure blessings promised to David.”
Acts 13:34

A Guarantee You Can Trust

 

Family Devotion – May 9, 2022

Devotion based on Acts 13:34

See series: Devotions

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

As you begin your devotion today, ask your parent(s) to point to something in your home that came with a guarantee. The roof on your house may have come with a “lifetime guarantee.” Computers, phones, cars—many of these items come with guarantees that they will continue to work as promised or your money back. Companies often use guarantees to sweeten the deal so that you will have confidence in their products.

In our reading today, Paul describes a promise that God made to the people of Israel long ago. God promised that he would restore them as his children, even though their relationship was broken by sin. Jesus would be the “repairman”—the one to restore the broken relationship. “I will give you the holy and sure blessings promised to David,” God said to his people (v. 34). Then God sweetened the deal. He gave his children a special guarantee that the repair would last forever, that their relationship with him would always be strong. When speaking of Jesus’ work, God promised, “He will never be subject to decay” (v. 34). It means that even though Jesus would die for our sins, he would not stay in the grave. God had a repair plan, and that plan came with a guarantee that the repair would last forever.

Even though they had this wonderful guarantee, many of the people listening to Paul didn’t understand God’s plan. They did not recognize Jesus as the Savior God had promised. In fact, when Jesus showed up to repair what was broken, many of them condemned him. They sentenced him to death and put his body in a grave.

But remember, God made a promise. Jesus’ resurrection on Easter proves God’s promises are true. Jesus rose from the grave “so that he will never be subject to decay.” Never! He will always be alive! That’s more than a lifetime guarantee! That’s an eternal promise that our relationship with God is repaired, and nothing, not even sin or death, can break or change that.

Jesus has the power to fix us. The more we study God’s Word, the more we see that it’s true. His repairs last forever, just as he promised!

Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia!

Closing Prayer:

Gracious God, thank you for sending Jesus to sacrifice his life for us and for keeping your promise to raise him to life again. Because he lives, we also will live. Keep us in this faith always. 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

  • Even though Jesus gave up his life for our sins, what did he do on Easter?
  • Because we believe Jesus rose at Easter, where will we live forever?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

  • Name something of yours that broke and could not be repaired. How did that make you feel?
  • Look up John 14:19. How do you know you can trust Jesus’ promise that you will live with him forever? How does that make you feel?

Questions for Middle School and Above

  • Why was it important that Jesus died for our sins and rose victorious over death?
  • As a Christian, you believe God’s promises. Think of how you would you describe God’s “eternal lifetime” guarantee to someone who may not yet believe. What’s the alternative guarantee if they don’t believe? Give a reason why it’s important we discuss that one with them as well.

 

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.
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Listen to His Voice – Week of May 9, 2022

Listen to His Voice – Week of May 9, 2022



My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.
John 10:27-30



Babies can recognize their mother’s voice while they’re still in the womb, even though it’s a muffled voice they hear. When they are born, her voice will cause a baby to turn its head or soothe their cry. It’s remarkable. It’s miraculous. Even when they don’t understand language and words, they understand the sound and tones of the voice they know so well.
Do you know anything about sheep? While adorable, they’re not the brightest animals. It’s no small job for a shepherd to keep each sheep safe. They wander. They eat things they shouldn’t. They don’t pay attention to their surroundings which can put them in danger of falls, injury, or attacks. They’re easily identified as high maintenance. The shepherd truly has a 24/7 job to keep them out of harm’s way. His tools are simple. He watches with his eyes and listens carefully for their bleating cries. He uses his rod, his staff, to guide and prod the sheep to safety and to places with food and water. He also uses it to protect the sheep from any would be attackers. The shepherd also uses his voice to call the sheep closer and to provide the reassuring sound of his voice nearby.
Sound familiar? It’s no surprise that the Bible calls Jesus the Good Shepherd and refers to us as sheep. Let’s start with us. Aren’t we, like sheep, so prone to get off track in so many ways? We set a goal of reading our devotion or Bible study each day. We work at having a more positive attitude no matter what comes our way. We think about that one sin that nags at us. We want so badly to avoid it and yet there it is, once again. We get discouraged, anxious, worrisome, impatient, and on and on.
And then we hear it—the voice of our Good Shepherd. It may not be an audible voice but it’s there. Jesus, our Shepherd gently calls us to him in the Word. His Word is like the shepherd’s rod, reminding us when we stray in sin. We hear the patient voice of Jesus reminding us that he loves us, he forgives us, he is watching over us, and he is with us no matter what challenges come our way. It’s his desire that we are close to him each and every day, listening to his Word and eagerly going to him in our prayers.
Like the youngest of children, turn your head toward the Shepherd’s voice. Hear him clearly and regularly through his Word so that you are strengthened for each day. Trust in him to be with you and rest in the joy of knowing how dearly he loves you.



Prayer

Jesus, shepherd of the sheep, who your Father’s flock does keep,
Safe we wake and safe we sleep, guarded still by you.

In your promise firm we stand, none can take us from your hand;
Speak—we hear—at your command, we will follow you.

Father, draw us to you Son; we with joy will follow on
Till the work of grace is done, there to live with you. Amen

CW21 551 /CW93 436


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

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Right in Front of You – May 9, 2022

The Jews who were there gathered around him, saying, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.” Jesus answered, “I did tell you, but you do not believe. The works I do in my Father’s name testify about me.”
John 10:24,25

Right in Front of You

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Daily Devotion – May 9, 2022

Devotion based on John 10:24,25

See series: Devotions

Sometimes people simply refuse to see what is right in front of their eyes. The Jewish people who gathered around Jesus in today’s Bible reading are a perfect example of this. They still weren’t sure whether Jesus was God’s promised Messiah. They felt as if Jesus was keeping them in suspense. Why wouldn’t he just come right out and tell them if he was the Messiah?

Jesus, however, had been telling them plainly that he was the Messiah. In fact, he’d done it many times. He’d spoken that truth to them repeatedly using words. In addition, he had spoken to them using his actions.

If they wanted to know if Jesus was the Messiah, all they needed to do was open their eyes and see what Jesus was doing. Who else but God’s chosen Messiah could heal the sick as Jesus did? Or cast out demons with a single command? Or feed thousands of people with just a few loaves of bread and fish? Or raise the dead? Or give sight to the blind? Or do any of the countless other miracles that Jesus was doing?

The miracles that Jesus performed demonstrated who he was. He was indeed the Messiah God had promised to send. But they refused to see it. Even though all the evidence they needed was right in front of their eyes, they could not see it because they didn’t want to see it.

On our own, we couldn’t see the evidence that Jesus is the Messiah any more than the people in today’s Bible reading could. But God the Holy Spirit has worked faith in our hearts so that we see all that Jesus has done. Jesus’ miracles, his perfect life, his death on the cross, and his resurrection from the dead clearly show us that Jesus is our Savior who has paid for all our sins. Praise God that he has opened our eyes to see!

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank you for opening my eyes to see that you are my Savior. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
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.
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Transformed – teen devotion – May 8, 2022

One truth shared: We can trust everything that our Savior says to us in his holy Word.

Then came the Festival of Dedication at Jerusalem. It was winter, and Jesus was in the temple courts walking in Solomon’s Colonnade. The Jews who were there gathered around him, saying, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.”

Jesus answered, “I did tell you, but you do not believe. The works I do in my Father’s name testify about me, but you do not believe because you are not my sheep. My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.”
John 10:22-30

Promises Kept March Victorious Over Empty Words

There are some teachers in school for whom students hang on every word spoken and it all seems to make sense. There are others for whom this is not the case.

There are some parents whose spoken word is taken to heart by their children, because their kids know they will never let them down. There are others where this is not the case.

There are some friends that always have your back and are much more part of the solution to your issues instead of the problem. There are others… Well, you get the point.

The Pharisees had enough of Jesus infringing on their popularity and purpose. While he had preached and taught openly in their midst for some time, they finally confronted him and asked, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly” (v. 24).

Jesus had already made this known. He had already pointed to himself as the One who was to come to save mankind from their sins. He had already revealed his deity and love for those he came to die for.

Jesus had not only come to talk the talk, though. He came to walk the walk. He came to preach the good news and teach a message of salvation by grace alone. But he had also come to serve as the atoning sacrifice for the sins of a world which did not receive him or deserve the gift he was about to give.

The Pharisees were all about empty words and promises. Jesus was all about doing what he set out to do and following through on what he said. That’s why we worship him. That’s why—as sheep—we recognize the Good Shepherd’s voice and follow him wherever he leads us. Listen again, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand.”

People will let us down in life. But that is why the assurance of our salvation isn’t found in how others treat us or how good of a friend we are. Instead, we look to Jesus—the One who never lets us down and never will.

Prayer: Thank you for your Holy Word which we have for our nourishment, strength, and salvation, O Savior. Not only did you become the Word made flesh, but you share with us the very words of eternal life in your Gospel. Fill us today and always with this good news which gives us hope in this hopeless world. 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.
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The Real Messiah – May 8, 2022

“We tell you the good news: What God promised our fathers he has fulfilled for us, their children, by raising up Jesus.”
Acts 13:32,33

The Real Messiah

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Daily Devotion – May 8, 2022

Devotion based on Acts 13:32,33

See series: Devotions

Menachem Mendel Schneerson served as the seventh and final Rebbe (spiritual leader) of the Chabad Lubavitch movement. In 1991 he told his followers that he had done everything he could to bring the Messiah to this world.

Some followers believed that this message revealed Rebbe Schneerson as the Messiah. They sang in his presence, “Long live our Master, our teacher, and our Rabbi, King Messiah, forever and ever!” He did not tell them to stop singing.

Rebbe Schneerson died in 1994. Some of his disciples gathered at his grave, expecting him to rise from the dead and reveal himself as the Messiah. He has remained dead. True believers expect him to return soon to show himself to the world as the Messiah.

Almost 2,000 years ago the apostle Paul and his companion Barnabas spoke in the Jewish synagogue of Pisidian Antioch. They revealed a message about a certain rabbi named Jesus. Paul said, “God has brought the Savior Jesus, as he promised” (Acts 13:23).

Paul taught a Bible lesson in the synagogue. He demonstrated how the history of Israel pointed to the coming of Jesus. Even the death of Jesus fulfilled the words of the prophets read every Sabbath. Paul told them the good news that Jesus had risen from his grave. This astounding miracle revealed Jesus’ death as the fulfillment of God’s promise to punish one man for the sins of all.

Paul concluded, “Therefore, my brothers, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you. Through him everyone who believes is justified from everything you could not be justified from by the law of Moses” (Acts 13:38,39).

Rebbe Schneerson. Dead. Buried. All other false messiahs—the same. Jesus Christ. Died. Buried. Rose again on the third day. The one true Messiah. We tell you the good news: What God promised he has fulfilled for us by raising up Jesus.

Prayer:
God of the prophets, make your message clear to the world so that all may know the good news that has come to all through Jesus Christ, our one and only Savior. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
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.
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When Mother’s Day Hurts – Women’s Devotion

When Mother’s Day Hurts – Women’s Devotion




For many Christian women, Mother’s Day is wonderful. It sparkles with expressions of love and appreciation; it highlights Scripture’s praise of motherhood. There is thankfulness and joy, food, and celebrations. And we rejoice with those who rejoice.

But we also mourn with those who mourn, because for many women, Mother’s Day is not wonderful. There are empty wombs, empty cribs, and empty arms. The hearts of some are not just empty but shattered. Scripture describes the days and nights of one in sorrow: a couch drenched in tears and a bed flooded with weeping. There is silencing grief over the loss of a child or an indescribable aching over that which has not been given. The depth of these pains cannot be expressed with words.

Your sisters in Christ ache with you. We love you and pray for you, longing to comfort you with the hope of Christ. We point you to the Psalms where God himself promises to heal the brokenhearted and bind up their wounds. He says he is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.

God’s comfort and hope is Christ. He comes to you this day as always and stands by your side, so you are never alone. He understands everything you are going through because he knows everything about you and he loves you. He loves you.

Rest in the palm of his hand and find your refuge in His mighty fortress. Trust him in the stillness of your soul and pour out your heart to him. You are loved dear sister, and we entrust you to the arms of your Savior.

Scripture referenced above: Psalm 6:6, Psalm 147:3, Psalm 34:18, Hebrews 4:15, Psalm 139, Jeremiah 31:3, Isaiah 49:16, Psalm 46:1, Psalm 62:5-6, Psalm 46:10, Psalm 62:8.





Written by Naomi Schmidt


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Lost and Found – May 7, 2022

Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.”
Acts 9:17

Lost and Found

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Daily Devotion – May 7, 2022

Devotion based on Acts 9:17

See series: Devotions

A person can get lost without knowing it. A little boy in a mall wanders off from his parents to play with some toys. Two friends on a cross-country road trip miss their exit; they’re so caught up in the conversation that they drive many miles out of the way.

A man named Saul was lost, but he didn’t know it. He thought that by keeping the laws and traditions of the Old Testament, he could make himself right with God. In fact, Saul was so convinced he was right that he went after those who disagreed to bring them down. He didn’t want to hear that Jesus was the Savior, risen from the dead. Saul was a persecutor of Christians.

It’s easy to think about our relationship with God the way Saul did. It’s easy to think the way to be right with God is to do the right things. It’s easy to think we don’t need a Savior from sin. And when we think that way, we’re just as lost as Saul was.

One day God found Saul. There was a bright light from heaven, a visit from Jesus, and a bout of blindness. As terrifying as it all must have seemed to Saul at the time, clearly, God loved Saul. For the three days Saul’s blindness lasted, God gave him time to reflect on things. Jesus had been right all along; he was the only way to God. Jesus wasn’t dead; he was alive! Best of all, when the three days were up, Saul was baptized. Jesus had died for Saul’s sins too. God had forgiven Saul, and now Saul knew it.

When you are lost and know it; then there’s nothing better than being found. You probably haven’t been rescued from a deserted island, but you can imagine what joy there would be in hearing the beat of a helicopter blade. The account of Saul’s conversion is a ray of hope for all who are spiritually shipwrecked. Jesus paid for Saul’s sins, and he paid for yours too. It doesn’t take miraculous healing or light from heaven to turn you around. The Holy Spirit works through the message of what Jesus has done for you. Help has come.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, risen Savior, thank you for shining the light of your forgiveness on me too. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
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.
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I Can See Clearly Now – Family Devotion – May 6, 2022

Read: John 21:1-14

Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus.
John 21:4

I Can See Clearly Now

 

Family Devotion – May 6, 2022

Devotion based on John 21:4

See series: Devotions

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

Imagine this: You are going about your daily business, and in walks Jesus. You’re at the kitchen table. Or with friends for lunch. Or in your room playing with your toys. And suddenly, Jesus is standing there!

Not long after Easter, some of Jesus’ disciples were in their fishing boat fishing. But they weren’t catching anything. They weren’t expecting to see Jesus either. In fact, they didn’t even recognize him at first. He was there, but maybe it was hard to see him through the mist. Or maybe Jesus did not want to be recognized until after the fish were caught.

Yet he was with them, blessing their work. Their fishing was wildly successful that morning.

Jesus is with us as we go about our work, too. It may be difficult to see him because we think of him as seated far away at the right hand of God where he rules over all things. We can’t see him, so is he really here with us? Whenever we ask that question, remember what Jesus told his disciples on the night before he went to the cross: “Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me” (John 14:19). His disciples would always see him through the eyes of faith. They would see him when they remembered his teachings and lived their lives with Jesus’ words ringing in their ears.

When they heard his voice on the shore that morning, instructing them, they followed his direction to “throw your net on the right side of the boat.” And wow! A huge haul of fish! Suddenly, they realized something. Clearly, only Jesus could do such a thing! That’s when they recognized him.

The best way to see Jesus is through the eyes of faith. The Holy Spirit helps us see Jesus and know that he is with us. No matter how dark the night or misty the morning, no matter how frustrating our days, no matter what we are doing, Jesus is with us, blessing everything we do.

Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia!

Closing Prayer:

Risen Savior, help me see you clearly through the eyes of faith, and help me hear your voice as you speak to me in your Word. Let me never forget that you are with me always. 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

  • How do you know Jesus is with you, even if you can’t see him?
  • What can you do if you ever feel alone, or like Jesus is far away?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

  • What can you do every day to make sure that you are seeing Jesus and hearing his voice?
  • Jesus blessed his disciples with a whole boatload of fish. Name at least two “blessings” Jesus gives you when you listen to his voice.

Questions for Middle School and Above

  • Review what happened yesterday. What got in the way of seeing Jesus clearly in your life?
  • What would you say to someone who is having trouble seeing Jesus clearly through the mist or darkness of everyday life?

 

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.
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Scolding God – May 6, 2022

Scolding God – May 6, 2022


It is a dreadful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
Hebrews 10:31




Military Devotion – May 6, 2022

Devotion based on Hebrews 10:31

See series: Military Devotions

“After the battle, everything was pretty foggy. I stopped praying; I grew up in a Christian environment, but I didn’t believe it anymore. Human flesh melting on steel? Someone’s not listening.”1

This soldier’s words are disturbing. But sadly, not surprising. They can be easily brushed aside by those who have no idea how disturbing combat can be.

Those who have seen the inside of horror may nod their heads in understanding even if they disagree with the warrior’s conclusion.

When the shock is so great, one is prone to say, “This cannot be!” At other times, one feels forced to scream, “This should not be!”

If it should not be, then someone must be at fault. Someone must be blamed.

Sometimes, it seems no one is left to blame other than the one who is said to watch over the world.

That someone is the living God.

There is a natural tendency to acknowledge that a supreme being operates on a plane higher than humans. The evidence is there in nature. The confirmation rests in one’s conscience.

To deny the existence of the One who is greater is to lie to oneself.

It can be done. But most are not willing to take that step.

More commonly, people may envision a big guy in the sky who might be able to give help.

They see him similar to a helper in a preschool room. Besides tying shoes and giving out smiles, this is the one who watches over the youngsters to keep them safe. If a scuffle breaks out, this is the one that prevents it from getting out of hand.

The helper is blamed if someone gets hurt. What good are they if they cannot keep serious harm from happening?

If God is viewed as the helper for the world, he is blamed when the horrible happens.

“Someone’s not listening!” the disgusted warrior complained.

The one he had thought of as God failed to keep the warfare to an acceptable level.

The soldier knew some could be wounded in firefights. He expected some might even die. But to his mind, none—not even one—should have their flesh melted on hot steel!

So, this angry creature of dust raised his voice in empty righteous wrath to scold his creator and judge.

Someone should warn him. Someone should remind him that the Lord of creation does not answer to him. He does not answer to anyone. And never does he fail to do what is right.

The Bible speaks of such people. It says of them, “There is no fear of God before their eyes” (Romans 3:18).

They will learn, “It is a dreadful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.”

The soldier is deadly wrong. But we understand him. That same haughty spirit lives in us, and at times, it takes control of our words and actions.

But the Spirit of Christ also dwells within us. His voice overrides the foolishness of evil. His spirit calls for forgiveness. It begs for greater strength to battle evil.

It is the voice of Satan that accuses the holy God. It is the blood of Jesus that washes away our guilt of listening to the rebellious angel.

The Holy Spirit, the Comforter from on high, quiets our disturbed souls and allows peace to come to hurting hearts.

We hear the assurance, “Be still, my soul; the Lord is on thy side.”

Scold God?

Never.


1From The Things they Cannot Say, page 132.



Prayer:
God of might, God of mercy, scold us when we dare to step out of line. Keep us on the narrow path. Call us back when we wander and hold us close when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death. If our eyes ever gaze upon the horrible, lift them up to see your glory. Show us 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.


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Shared Experience – May 6, 2022

Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus.
John 21:4

Shared Experience

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Daily Devotion – May 6, 2022

Devotion based on John 21:4

See series: Devotions

Throughout Jesus’ ministry, how many times did his disciples tell the story of what happened near the beginning of that ministry—the time when Jesus told Peter to let down his fishing nets into deep water for a catch? When Peter, James, and John let down their nets as Jesus had directed, pure pandemonium broke out. Before these sleepy fishermen knew it, the nets were so full of fish that the nets began to break. And when they hauled the fish into the boats, the boats were so full that they began to sink.

It’s not hard to imagine watching one of the disciples tell that story around a campfire, backed up by good-natured laughter. It’s also not hard to imagine Jesus and his disciples exchanging looks with each other during the story—looks and nods and knowing smiles. After all, that’s typically what happens when people bond over a shared experience.

That bond of shared experience must have become poignant the day the resurrected Christ showed up on the shore of the Sea of Galilee. Here’s what happened: Peter, James, John, and several others had decided to go fishing overnight, but they caught nothing. Suddenly there was a man on shore, but they couldn’t make out who he was. The man called out, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” They did. And suddenly, they had on their hands a repeat of the fishing story they knew so well. The man on shore was Jesus. The man on shore was their Savior, their dear, dear friend.

Jesus has that same bond with you and me. Not only is he the One who lived a sinless life in our place and who suffered and died to cleanse us from every wrong. As our living Lord, he has been with you and me every moment of our lives. Every experience we’ve had, good and bad—Jesus has been there for it. He’s been there to carry us through. He’s been there to guide it all for our good.

That’s the kind of friend we have in Jesus.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank you for being by my side always. And thank you for being my dearest friend. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
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.
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The End – May 5, 2022

In a loud voice they were saying: “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!”
Revelation 5:12

The End

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Daily Devotion – May 5, 2022

Devotion based on Revelation 5:12

See series: Devotions

God has wired us for stories. Our own experience reflects this. If someone presents us with endless bullets of factoids on a PowerPoint screen, we will likely lose interest. Weave that same information into a gripping story, however, and our attention remains. It’s simply how our Creator has put us together.

This probably should come as no surprise. After all, Christianity is the greatest story of all time, and a story that happens to be absolutely true. It starts with Creation, then the Fall into sin, then God’s promise to send a Savior from sin. Then, God guides the twists and turns of history until the moment is right for the Savior to arrive. When he does, Jesus Christ does exactly what needs to be done to live a holy life on our behalf and suffer and die for our every sin. Then, according to his promise, he rises from the dead.

And this drama is still unfolding. You and I are fighting the good fight. We battle the temptations of the world, the temptations of Satan, the temptations of our old sinful natures. Often we overcome, but sometimes we stumble. Sometimes we fall. When we do, The Bible brings us to repentance, Jesus refreshes us in his forgiveness, and his gospel empowers us to get back up.

Through all of this, you and I are collecting scars, but that’s all right. We know it’s all right because our Lord has chosen to tell us how this ultimate adventure is going to end. In the last book of the Bible, the apostle John receives a revelation of what you and I are going to see. In the end, there is victory and peace and joy, unbridled and pure. Jesus is at the center. Multitudes of angels are there. You and I are there, along with all those of all time who have trusted in Jesus. And we fill the heavens with our shouts and songs.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank you for showing me how all this is going to end. Refresh me day by day as I fight the good fight. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
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.
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Cheer from Wherever You Are – Family Devotion – May 4, 2022

Read: Revelation 5:11-14

Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, saying: “To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!”
Revelation 5:13

Cheer from Wherever You Are

 

Family Devotion – May 4, 2022

Devotion based on Revelation 5:13

See series: Devotions

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

Imagine yourself at a sporting event in a gym or stadium full of people. Hundreds or thousands of people are chanting, clapping, and shouting for their favorite team. What an energizing atmosphere when your team wins!

Even if you haven’t been in a big stadium like that, maybe you’ve watched your favorite team on television at home. You can hear the crowd roar and see people cheering. You might cheer and shout in your living room, too, as you watch on the flat-screen. It’s still thrilling to watch your team win, even if you’re not there in person.

In today’s reading, God gives the apostle John a special glimpse of what heaven will be like. The scene is a little bit like that stadium full of people:

  1. The angels are the cheerleaders, reminding us how wonderful Jesus is, worthy of cheers.
  2. Jesus is the hero on the field because of what he accomplished for us: He played the perfect game, and he gave all of himself in doing so. He even beat the most powerful enemy of all, death itself. When he rose from the grave, he proved himself to be the undefeated victor.
  3. Then the whole stadium erupts with loud cheers. Everyone! Some of the people praising Jesus are right there with him in heaven. And some are like us, still living here on earth, but following Jesus and celebrating his victory. Because we aren’t in heaven yet, we see this picture through John’s description of it in the Bible, and we join in the praise from where we are.

It’s a blessing for us to see this picture through John, because sometimes we need a reminder of how absolutely amazing the joy of Jesus’ victory is. As we live every day, it’s easy to lose some of the joy and energy of Easter. When we have a rough patch in life, when our enemies seem to be winning, our cheers for Jesus might die down a bit. We forget about his victory.

That’s why Easter’s stadium erupting in cheers is so good to see! It’s where we go, over and over again, to see Jesus win and see those in heaven who are praising him. Someday, we’ll be there too because Jesus paid for our ticket. Until then, we cheer him from where we are now—wherever he has put us. Because he is worthy of our cheers.

Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia!

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, you have won the victory over sin and death. Let every person, far and near, praise you for what you have done. Help me to join in those praises, no matter how I feel or where I am, because you are worthy. 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

  • The Bible tells us that Jesus won the victory. Who did Jesus have to beat in order to win?
  • The Bible tells us that Jesus won the victory. How did Jesus win?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

  • Recount the last time someone in your house was cheering their team to win. Describe what they looked and what they were feeling.
  • Discuss what cheering for Jesus feels and looks like in your life or to others watching you.

Questions for Middle School and Above

  • Jesus won! But sometimes you can’t tell by the looks on our faces. Name something happening in your life that makes you think that the devil and sin are winning. How can you be certain that they will not win in the end?
  • Name someone you know who is in heaven right now, cheering for Jesus. What do you and that person have in common?

 

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.
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God’s Plans – May 4, 2022

“Lord,” Ananias answered, “I have heard many reports about this man [Saul] and all the harm he has done to your holy people in Jerusalem . . .” But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name before the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel.”
Acts 9:13,15

God’s Plans

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Daily Devotion – May 4, 2022

Devotion based on Acts 9:13,15

See series: Devotions

Let’s take a moment to set up this extraordinary scene. Ananias is a Christian. He lives in a town called Damascus. He’s been receiving reports about a Jewish man by the name of Saul of Tarsus. Saul of Tarsus has made it his mission to crush Christianity. In Damascus, the mere mention of Saul’s name very likely creates a corkscrew sensation running up the back of every Christian.

And now the risen Lord Jesus appears to Ananias in a vision. In this vision, he tells Ananias to go to a certain house in Damascus and to ask for Saul of Tarsus, who’s staying there.

Saul of Tarsus? Poor Ananias. In that moment, Ananias cannot see the wisdom in seeking out the one who brings so much terror to many Christians. Every impulse in Ananias tells him to take a pass on paying a visit to Saul of Tarsus. The Lord’s plans, however, are different.

Ananias is not alone, of course. As Christians, you and I battle all kinds of impulses that tell us to back away from the Lord’s will for our lives. Such impulses can come in many forms. There’s the impulse of fear and resentment, There’s the impulse of convenience and the status quo or to remain where it’s comfortable and familiar.

However, the Lord’s plans are not for the sake of what’s comfortable. Often, they are for the sake of reaching the next blood-bought soul with the good news about Jesus. And that can make for some uncomfortable, inconvenient moments indeed.

But the true joy of life is in God’s plans, not ours. In him, we find our forgiveness, purchased at the cross, where we find true belonging and meaning. And in him, his gospel empowers us to embrace the Lord’s plans, leaving ours behind.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, move me to trust your plans for my life. I am yours. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
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.
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When Life Stops – May 3, 2022

For three days [Saul] was blind, and did not eat or drink anything.
Acts 9:9

When Life Stops

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Daily Devotion – May 3, 2022

Devotion based on Acts 9:9

See series: Devotions

For a Jewish man by the name of Saul, life had suddenly stopped. He had been embracing the presumption that the followers of a crucified teacher named Jesus were all wrong about his being the promised Savior of the world. As a result, Saul had made it his mission to persecute and root out the Jesus followers wherever he could find them.

But then the risen Lord Jesus himself had confronted Saul. After that encounter, Saul was physically blind for three days. The Bible records that, during those three days, Saul did not eat or drink anything. The Bible also records that Saul spent much of that time in prayer.

What were those three days like for Saul? No doubt they were not easy. No doubt they contained for Saul some long, difficult hours of reflection; long, difficult hours of realizing how wrong he had been and how right Jesus was about everything.

When was the last time your life suddenly stopped? When was the last time it was all you could do to sit down and try to absorb something that had just happened? Was it the abrupt loss of your job? Was it the collapse of a close relationship or heartbreak in your family? Was it the diagnosis of a life-changing illness or the death of someone close to you? Or was it something else that still, somehow, put your life into a pause or a sobering picture frame? Perhaps your life is at a full stop right now.

When life stops, Jesus is there. He’s there to bless those difficult hours of seeing those things I need to see—whether it has to do with where I’ve gone wrong, what I have forgotten about the Lord’s will for my life and his promises, or what I have forgotten about my absolute dependence upon God’s grace.

He’s also there with his forgiveness. He’s also there to cleanse me in the blood from Calvary’s cross. He’s there to start my life all over again.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, when my life stops, sit with me. Move me to see what I need to see. And by your forgiveness, empower me to begin again. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
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.
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A Stub Is Not a Snub – Family Devotion – May 2, 2022

Read: Acts 9:1-22

As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?”
Acts 9:3-4

A Stub Is Not a Snub

 

Family Devotion – May 2, 2022

Devotion based on Acts 9:3-4

See series: Devotions

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

Imagine it’s one of those days. You are really angry. So angry that you feel like you are boiling. You might even storm around your house, tossing and slamming things.

As you storm, you stub your toe. You fall down in pain. As you sit, your toe throbs, but the rest of your body starts to relax. You begin to realize how ridiculous your behavior was. Your rage was getting you nowhere.

Today’s Bible reading opens with Saul storming around in a rage against the followers of Jesus. If you were a Jesus follower and crossed paths with Saul, you were in great danger. The threats, sticks, and stones were flying.

And then Saul stubbed his toe, so to speak. Jesus appeared to him in a way that got his attention and reduced him to a quivering pile of a man. He lost his sight and was completely dependent on his friends to guide him to the city where he was going.

Humbled, Saul sat for three days in darkness, coming down from his raging high.

When God knew Saul was ready, he restored Saul’s sight. And then God gave Saul an even better gift—the Holy Spirit filled his heart (v. 17). With these gifts, God in his grace gave Saul physical and spiritual sight. We know this because Saul began hanging out with the followers of Jesus, talking about Jesus and proclaiming his name. These are things Saul never would have done while he was blinded by his rage against Jesus.

Saul is an example of God’s incredible grace and his power to change hearts. Can we see ourselves in Saul? We too are sinners. We often get ourselves so worked up about this or that, and we fail to see what God intends for us to see. God might let you stub your toe just to get your attention, to get you to calm down so you can see things clearly. It’s his way of saying, “My child, what are you doing?”

When we’re finally calm and repentant, we can better get Jesus’ words to us, what he did for us, his power, his victory. As we listen to his voice, the Holy Spirit fills us and helps us see those things.

Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia!

Closing Prayer:

Lord, open our eyes to see your work in our lives, as you’ve done for so many people who once sat in darkness. Thank you for allowing us to see you clearly and share in your victory over darkness! 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 calms you down when you get really angry?
  • How do we know that God forgives us for what we do when we are angry?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

  • Describe a time when God allowed something to happen so you would pay more attention to him and his Word.
  • How does God bring about change in your heart? (See Ezekiel 36:27, 1 Corinthians 2:12.)

Questions for Middle School and Above

  • Name two things that were hard to see and understand because you were angry.
  • Saul sat in darkness for three days. What do you suppose he was thinking about? How does the fact that Saul received his sight after three days in darkness parallel Jesus’ time in the grave between Good Friday and Easter Sunday?

 

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.
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It’s Him! – Week of May 2, 2022

It’s Him! – Week of May 2, 2022



Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus. He called out to them, “Friends, haven’t you any fish?” “No,” they answered. He said, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.
John 21:4-6



Have you ever had the experience where someone comes up to you, you look at them and think, “They look so familiar, but I just can’t place them?” You run into this person in a completely different setting than you normally would and your mind struggles to put it together. Once you start talking, it clicks, and you realize who it is you’re talking to.

The disciples had gone through a lot. Jesus, the one they loved, the one they spent so much time with, had been crucified. Three days later they got word that he had risen from the dead. While in hiding in fear, Jesus appeared to them in a locked room with the words, “Peace be with you!” (John 20:26). In our reading today, the disciples are at the Sea of Galilee, doing what they had done so often—fishing. Peter knew all about fishing but this time, as had happened in the past, no fish. Early in the morning after fishing all night, they hear a voice from the shore asking about their catch. Nothing—that’s what they had caught. The man gave them instructions to put their nets on the right side and try again. Now what? Nets brimming with fish! So many fish that they couldn’t pull the nets into the boat. Does all this sound familiar? Suddenly the light goes on and they realize who is on the shore. What an amazing moment, yet again. Here is Jesus. Watching over them and once again providing for them. What a breakfast they had that morning!

In this account, Jesus is reminding us, too. As we go about each day, Jesus is there with us all through the day. His heart is full of love for us as he watches the joyful things, the challenging things, the disappointing things, and the sinful things. And yet, we can so often be like the disciples who didn’t always recognize that he was right there with them. How often do we muddle through our day without much thought about him? We can take so long before we recognize and remember to turn to him with our thanks, our repentance, our petitions.

Never forget that Jesus is there, right beside you, right behind you, right in front of you. He’s there to guard and guide you. He’s there to comfort and encourage you. He’s there to remind you of your need for a Savior and then to grant you his grace and forgiveness. He’s there providing innumerable earthly blessings, too many to count. Your net is full of his blessings both spiritual and earthly. Thank you, Lord!



Prayer
Dear Jesus, I can so often neglect you and yet you never neglect me. Thank you for your constant love and presence in my life. Let me never take you for granted but look to you in all I do. In your name I pray. Amen.

A Thought to Consider: Consider taking a few minutes to reflect on the following hymn as a reminder of the thoughts of this devotion.

CW93 478, CW21 775

With the Lord begin your task;
Jesus will direct it.
For his aid and counsel ask;
Jesus will perfect it.
Ev’ry morn with Jesus rise,
And, when day is ended,
In his name then close your eyes;
Be to him commended.

Let each day begin with prayer,
Praise and adoration.
On the Lord cast ev’ry care;
He is your salvation.
Morning, evening, and at night
Jesus will be near you,
Save you from the tempter’s might,
With his presence cheer you.

With your Savior at your side
Foes need not alarm you;
In his promises confide
And no ill can harm you.
All your trust and hope repose
In the mighty Master,
Who in wisdom truly knows
How to stem disaster.

If your task is thus begun
With the Savior’s blessing,
Safely then your course will run,
Naught your soul distressing.
Good will follow ev’rywhere
While you here must wander;
You at last the joy will share
In the mansions yonder.


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

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The Question – May 2, 2022

He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?”
Acts 9:4

The Question

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Daily Devotion – May 2, 2022

Devotion based on Acts 9:4

See series: Devotions

Pat Flynn felt overwhelmed. He was struggling to develop an online course, but it seemed as though the harder he worked, the more complicated it became. It was then that he had a chance to sit down with an author by the name of Tim Ferriss. During their discussion, Tim Ferriss asked a key question: “If [developing this course] were easy, what would it look like?” The question was a game-changer for Pat. It tore down his false presumption that the setup of his course had to be complex to be good. He re-thought everything he had been doing, stopped feeling overwhelmed, and ended up with a much better course.

In Acts chapter 9, a Jewish man by the name of Saul embraced a powerful presumption. He presumed that the followers of a crucified teacher by the name of Jesus were wrong about his being the promised Savior of the world. For that reason, Saul had made it his business to persecute and root out these Jesus followers wherever he could find them.

That all changed, however, when the risen Jesus himself confronted Saul with a question: “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” Such a question challenged Saul’s entire presumption. And with that question, Jesus, his gospel, and the power of his Holy Spirit quickly brought Saul to faith and changed his life forever.

Perhaps the Lord could confront us with some “Why” questions: Why do you continue to worry your way through your day? Why do you spend so much time on social media but not so much in God’s Word? Why do you tell yourself you’re too busy for the things you know are truly important? Why do you behave as though the Lord Jesus is not in control? Why do you avoid taking a moment to tell your child or grandchild what Jesus means to you?

Whatever the question is, the Lord can use it for great blessing. It can bring us to repentance. And through his Gospel, he can refresh us all over again in the forgiveness he purchased for us at the cross.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, confront me with the question I need to hear. Bring me to repentance. Refresh me in your forgiveness. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
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.
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Transformed – teen devotion – May 1, 2022

One truth shared: The truth of Easter opens our eyes, hearts, and lives to see the goodness of our God.

Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. In a loud voice they were saying:

“Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!”

Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, saying:

“To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!”

The four living creatures said, “Amen,” and the elders fell down and worshiped.
Revelation 5:11-14

Sight Marches Victorious Over Blindness

The book of Revelation is often referred to as a picture book. It is a full color kaleidoscope of awesomeness that lets us see the majesty, power, and love of our God in a different way than we’re used to.

Revelation 5 is a great example of this explosion of brilliant sights and sounds the apostle John received as a glimpse of the heavenly splendor that awaits us all in eternity.

What he sees is mind-boggling enough—countless angels surrounding Christ’s throne of grace, all in service to him who is and who was and who is to come.

It’s what he hears that builds our excitement to the tipping point, though, “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!” (v. 12). Imagine seeing this happen. Imagine hearing the roaring sound of it proclaimed—all at the same time—by countless angelic hosts.

Nothing in our reading today, though, is possible without the reality of Easter. If Good Friday is just the demise of a good man or the end of the road for someone hated by his detractors, then John’s revelation is not possible. In fact, if Christ is not risen from the dead, then there’s no reason to celebrate at all. But what we see in this full color kaleidoscope of awesomeness is the result of the truth that Christ is risen. He is risen, indeed.

Look again to the picture painted for us in Revelation 5 and listen again to what is spoken by the angels, “To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!” (vs. 13). We who are spiritually blind by both nature and nurture can still—by our God’s grace and our Savior’ love—clearly see that Jesus alone is worthy of our love and adoration.

While we walk through this life by faith and not by sight, the majesty of what we see in God’s Word and through eyes of faith amazes us. That’s because Easter truth is our reality today. That’s because Easter truth is our reality for all eternity in the One we worship and adore.

Prayer: Lord God, we deserve nothing from you except for pain and punishment. And yet you love us. Fill us with this love today and always that we might join together to praise and worship your Son above all else. 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.
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The Lamb – May 1, 2022

“Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain.”
Revelation 5:12

The Lamb

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Daily Devotion – May 1, 2022

Devotion based on Revelation 5:12

See series: Devotions

What comes to mind when you think of God? Perhaps words like “big,” “powerful,” maybe even “angry with me” come to mind. I doubt you would say “an animal.” But in the book of Revelation, Jesus is called “the Lamb.” And we’re told he was slain.

In the Old Testament, thousands upon thousands of lambs, goats, bulls, rams, and other animals were slain. Why? In directing his Old Testament people of Israel to bring animal sacrifices, God was teaching them that disobeying God is extremely serious. In his holiness, God’s justice demanded the thing of ultimate value: one’s soul for one’s sin.

But in his tremendous mercy, God provided substitutes. He allowed animals to be sacrificed in substitution for sinners. These animals pointed to Jesus, “the Lamb, who was slain,” in substitution for us. Jesus allowed his life to be taken in place of sinners’ lives so we could have a God who is not “angry with me” but a God who is at peace with us. The Bible says that “We have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1).

Why would Jesus do that for us—give up his own life to save ours? The Bible says that Jesus could bear our sins more easily than he could bear the thought of our eternal hopelessness. He could endure the dishonor of being damned for sin if it meant we would not be.

It’s astounding that he would do that for us! This is why the Bible says, “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive . . . honor and glory and praise . . . for ever and ever!”

Prayer:
Lamb of God, comfort my troubled conscience with the truth that you were slain to forgive all my sins. All glory and honor to you for dying in my place so I could live eternally! Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
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.
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Go and Tell – April 30, 2022

The high priest and all his associates . . . arrested the apostles and put them in the public jail. But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the doors of the jail and brought them out. “Go, stand in the temple courts,” he said, “and tell the people the full message of this new life.” At daybreak they entered the temple courts, as they had been told, and began to teach the people . . . “We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name,” the high priest said . . . Peter and the other apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than men!”
Acts 5:17-21,28,29

Go and Tell

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Daily Devotion – April 30, 2022

Devotion based on Acts 5:17-21,28,29

See series: Devotions

“Go…and tell,” the angel told the apostles. That’s the Easter imperative—the Easter command. Jesus is alive! He’s risen from the dead. He has conquered death. Go and tell.

There is a part of us called the sinful nature that says, “Don’t go and tell.” Some people warn us that we should never talk about politics and religion. Sometimes, as in the Bible reading for today, even the authorities of the world forbid us to speak about the risen Christ. But through his angel messengers, God told the apostles, “Go…and tell.”

So why would we go and tell? We do it out of love for the Lord who told us to do so. But there is also another reason.

We live in a world where people are dying spiritually and eternally, and we have the only real antidote for death. Through faith in the risen Jesus, we can and will live eternally. In the risen Jesus, we have the prescription to living joyfully forever! Love for others will move us to go and tell them.

Yes, there will be some who will reject that truth, deny that possibility, and suggest that the notion of joyous everlasting life through Jesus and him alone is nothing but foolishness.

But God will bring others to faith, and they will thank you for sharing that life-saving message of the crucified and risen Christ. Then experience the wonder and joy of sharing that message with others. Yes, go and tell.

Prayer:
Dear Lord, you have saved me for a life of joy in heaven with you. Moved by your wondrous love, help me to go and tell others about it, too! Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
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.
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Resurrection Peace – April 29, 2022

Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!”
John 20:26

Resurrection Peace

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Daily Devotion – April 29, 2022

Devotion based on John 20:26

See series: Devotions

Jesus came and stood among them. Since those disciples had been through so much, Jesus stood among them and gave them peace. Oh, that he would do the same for us.

Wouldn’t it be helpful if Jesus would appear while sitting in the ICU waiting room to assure us that dad is in good hands?

Wouldn’t it be great if Jesus was there at our side in our lonely, quiet moments, when all others have left us or forgotten about us?

Wouldn’t it be beneficial if Jesus was there for us when we’re at our lowest? You know, when we start recalling all our mistakes and the internal guilt is tearing us apart.

We might sometimes think the original disciples had it so easy; Jesus was right there, standing in the same room. But keep in mind, in just a matter of weeks, Jesus would ascend into heaven, and his disciples would no longer have his physical, visible presence to assure them. They would have to rely upon his promises. And those promises are just as comforting and dependable for us today as they were for the disciples then.

Jesus doesn’t suddenly appear to us in our living rooms or medical waiting rooms, but he does offer this solemn pledge: “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20) and “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5).

He doesn’t ring our doorbells and give us a show-and-tell display of his scarred hands every time our consciences act up. Instead, he promises that our sins have been removed from us “as far as the east is from the west” (Psalm 103:12).

He may not put a hand on our shoulders. Instead, he puts his Word in print, and he puts that printed Word, the Bible, into our hands. There in the Bible he promises peace—the peace of sins forgiven, the peace only the living Lord Jesus can give.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, when I feel weak or alone, remind me that you are near. When I am pressed by a guilty conscience, remind me that you have already paid for my sins. When I hurt, remind me of your love. Help me to share that same love with others. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
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.
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You just can’t help it! – Family Devotion – April 29, 2022

Read: Acts 5:12,17-32

Then the captain went with the officers and brought the apostles in without force, because they were afraid that the people might stone them. After they brought them in, they had them stand before the Sanhedrin. The high priest asked them, “Did we not give you strict orders not to teach in this name? Look, you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and you are determined to bring this man’s blood down on us!”

But Peter and the apostles replied, “We must obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers raised Jesus, whom you arrested and killed by hanging him on a cross. God exalted him to his right hand as Prince and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and the forgiveness of sins. We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.”
Acts 5:26-32

You just can’t help it!

 

Family Devotion – April 29, 2022

Devotion based on Acts 5:26-32

See series: Devotions

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

A family was coming back from vacation when they got into a little fender bender. Everyone was okay. No one was hurt. But they all decided not to tell the grandparents because they didn’t want the grandparents to worry. The next day when they arrived home, they called the grandparents to let them know that they were home safe and sound. When it was the youngest boy’s chance to talk to Grandma and Grandpa, the first thing out of his mouth was, “Grammy and Papa, we were in a car accident!” The little boy just couldn’t help it! And out of his mouth came the truth!

Peter and the apostles were in a similar situation. They were told not to tell anyone the truth. They were told to remain silent about all the time they had spent with Jesus and how they never saw him sin once. They were to “zip their lips” about the perfect Jesus being willingly crucified on the cross to take away the sins of the whole world. And they were absolutely not to mention anything ever about Jesus rising from the dead and appearing to over five hundred people.

But everywhere they went, they talked about Jesus. They just couldn’t help it! They saw Jesus’ miracles. They ate with the five thousand fed. They watched as the paralyzed man was lowered through the roof and walked out carrying his own mat. They heard Jesus’ promises, “Because I live, you also will live.” They watched everything Jesus did and stood in awe of his word. They just couldn’t stop talking about him no matter what!

As we think about the incredible Bible events that we hear in church, that we learn in Sunday School, that our parents tell us about, we just can’t stop thinking about them. What do these truths mean for us? Every sin washed away! Death conquered! Heaven secured forever! Go and share these truths. If someone wants you to stop, tell them, “I just can’t help it!”

Closing Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank you for sending your Holy Spirit to bring us these incredible truths in your Holy Scriptures. Continue to work through them to make us wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 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

  • Do you know what a secret is? Why is the message of Jesus not a secret?
  • Next time you are talking on the phone with a family member, tell them “Jesus loves you.” Practice it right now. Pretend that you are on the phone and say, “Jesus loves you.”

Questions for Elementary Age Children

  • What’s something that you just couldn’t wait to get home from school to tell your parents about? How is the message of forgiveness through Jesus similar to that?
  • When you think about all the miracles that Jesus did, what is the one that is the most impressive to you? Wait until bed tonight to tell your parents which one you thought of!

Questions for Middle School and Above

  • Imagine you got a text message right now from your close friend. She won front row tickets to the biggest concert of the year, and she wants you to go with her. How long would it take you to tell your family? Now think about the even better news that Jesus has won for you—eternity in a perfect place called heaven. What do you want to do with that news?
  • Have you ever shared something that you weren’t supposed to? Maybe you “replied all” on an email… or texted the wrong person. How did you feel? What’s the one message that you never have to worry about sharing with the wrong person?

 

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.
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Missing Persons – April 29, 2022

Missing Persons – April 29, 2022


Enoch walked with God; then he was no more, because God took him away.
Genesis 5:24




Military Devotion – April 29, 2022

Devotion based on Genesis 5:24

See series: Military Devotions

I wish to report some missing persons.

When I look in places where I have seen them before, they are not there. Sometimes I think I hear their voices, but I am always mistaken. I wish they had not left. There is happy news I would like to share with them. There have been sorrows that their presence would have lessened.

Sometimes I dream that their going away was only a dream and everything is good again—that they are in my life again.

But they are not.

Some mornings I awake with the feeling of the old days—until memory tells me that those days have passed and will never return.

They are no more.

This does not surprise me. I have learned of the thing called death. My earliest memory of it was when my puppy was run over by a car. My dad buried it next to the garden. I checked the next day to see if the puppy dug himself out of his grave.

He did not.

I learned that death was permanent. The most we can do is shed some tears over it and accept that what has died will be missing.

Thankfully, some of the people who are now missing from my life told me about the life after this life. I learned that not only did I have a daddy who was with me at the burial of my puppy, but also another father who once watched over the burial of his beloved son.

Both fathers loved me. One of them was helpless before death. The other one destroyed the power of death.

I learned to sing, “Death itself, is transitory. I shall lift my head in glory.”

The one who taught me that hymn is now among the missing. I no longer see or hear him. I miss him.

Dreadful words echo from a long-ago garden.

“Dust you are and to dust you will return.”

It is said that no one leaves this life alive. That is usually true.

Except.

Except someone called Elijah who was escorted to heaven in a fiery chariot without dying.

Except an Enoch, of whom it is written, “Enoch walked with God; then he was no more, because God took him away.”

Both are listed among the missing. But we know where they went, and we know how they got there. We know where to find them now.

They are with God because God took them to heaven.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if it could happen as easy as that to our loved ones? If it could happen to us?

Is that not actually what has happened and will happen to those who placed their hope in Jesus, the Lord of life?

It is.

So, they are not missing after all. We just cannot see them now.

They are more alive than ever because the threat of death has been canceled. They flourish in the wonder and glory of the ever-living Creator and Savior.

Enoch has nothing over us.

We, too, walk with God each day, do we not?

One day he will take us away, will he not?

Someday someone may list my name on a stone placed among others that serve as memorials for the missing.

But you will know where to find me.

Let the inscription read: “He walked with God; then he was no more, because God took him away.”



Prayer:
“Jesus, your blood and righteousness
my beauty are, my glorious dress;
mid flaming worlds in these arrayed,
with joy shall I lift up my head.” Amen.
(Christian Worship 573:1)



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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Resurrection Proof – April 28, 2022

A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.”
John 20:26,27

Resurrection Proof

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Daily Devotion – April 28, 2022

Devotion based on John 20:26,27

See series: Devotions

Have you ever been channel surfing late at night and come across one of those infomercials with the super energetic spokesperson? After a few minutes, you start thinking, “Maybe I do need one of those salad spinners. After all, they do come in six amazing colors. And I really should eat more salads.” Those infomercial producers know you won’t purchase something on blind faith; you need proof. And if you see that proof—that the product really works—maybe you’ll consider buying theirs. That’s why the spokesperson for the salad spinner is energetic, happy, and in great shape. If you act now, this can all be yours for just $19.99.

The disciples wanted proof. They had seen Jesus die. His body had been taken off the cross and placed into the tomb. The disciples had been shaken. What they didn’t know yet was that Jesus had risen from the grave. He was alive. Jesus, on Easter evening, appeared to those shaken disciples and set their minds and hearts at ease.

But Thomas wasn’t there. So, Jesus appeared to him a week later. He didn’t have to, but our patient Savior reached out to Thomas and gave him what he was looking for: proof. What was unbelievable just a few days ago, wasn’t so far-fetched now that Thomas could see Jesus with his own eyes.

We have doubts, fears, and struggles too. Our patient Savior comes to us with promises that are always reliable. He points us to the cross—proof our sins are forgiven. He points us to the empty tomb—proof that he lives and that the Father has accepted and approved of his payment for sin. He holds out his scarred hands and assures us we have peace with God. No need to act now or make a payment; Jesus already has!

Prayer:
Lord, in my times of doubt, strengthen me with your promises. You died for me. You rose again. You are with me always! Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
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.
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Jesus’ Catchphrase – Family Devotion – April 27, 2022

Read: Revelation 1:4-18

I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and kingship and patient endurance in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony about Jesus.

I turned to see the voice that was speaking to me. When I turned, I saw seven gold lampstands, and among the lampstands was one like a son of man. He was clothed with a robe that reached to his feet, and around his chest he wore a gold sash. His head and his hair were white, like white wool or like snow. His eyes were like blazing flames. His feet were like polished bronze being refined in a furnace. His voice was like the roar of many waters. He held seven stars in his right hand. A sharp two-edged sword was coming out of his mouth. His face was shining as the sun shines in all its brightness.

When I saw him, I fell at his feet like a dead man. He placed his right hand on me and said, “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last—the Living One. I was dead and, see, I am alive forever and ever! I also hold the keys of death and hell.
Revelation 1:9,12-18

Jesus’ Catchphrase

 

Family Devotion – April 27, 2022

Devotion based on Revelation 1:9,12-18

See series: Devotions

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

A catchphrase is a word or a sentence that makes you think of a certain person. Let’s see if you or your parents can guess who said these catchphrases:

  • “Ugga Mugga!” – Daniel the Tiger’s way of saying “I love you!” (from a PBS kids’ show)
  • “To infinity, and beyond!” – Buzz Lightyear in Toy Story
  • Here’s one for your parents. “Hakuna Matata” – Timon and Pumbaa in The Lion King
  • Here’s one to ask your grandparents. “And now for the rest of the story” – Paul Harvey

Maybe you have a catchphrase too. Something that you like to say all the time. Maybe your parents, teachers, and pastors have a catchphrase too. Something that they like to say all the time. Did you know that Jesus had a catchphrase too? Do you know what it was? He said it to John in our devotion text from Revelation chapter one. He said it many times in the New Testament. Some have counted over 300 variations of the phrase in the Bible. His catchphrase was, “Do not be afraid.”

John was afraid. He received this amazing vision of the resurrected Jesus standing among his churches (the lampstands) and his pastors (the stars) in all his glory. He wore a majestic kingly robe. His pureness shined bright white into John’s eyes. He spoke God’s Word (sharp two-edged sword) with authority.

If you’ve ever stood next to a college or professional athlete, you quickly notice how different you are from them. They are big and strong, even compared to your dad. It didn’t take John long to notice how different he was from Jesus. Jesus was perfect and holy. John was a sinner.

Because of this, John was terrified to stand in Jesus’ presence. But look at what Jesus does. He places his right hand on John. It’s the same thing your parent might do if you are having a bad day. And then Jesus says, “Do not be afraid… I was dead, and see, I am alive forever and ever!”

Jesus says the same thing to you today. He says the same thing to you every day. Although your sins are real, your Savior is too. And Jesus loves you. That’s why he died to take away your sins and rose so that he can put his arm around you in his Word and tell you, “Do not be afraid, now or forever.”

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, as you came to John, you come to us through your Word. Comfort us, especially in our sins and guilt, with your wonderful catchphrase, “Do not be afraid.” Allow us to live free from fear knowing that you are in control of everything. 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 that is scary to you?
  • What does Jesus love to tell you every day?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

  • What’s a catchphrase from a television show you watch? Tell it to your family and see if your family knows who says it.
  • What do you love about Jesus telling you over and over, “Do not be afraid”?

Questions for Middle School and Above

  • Pick out a description of Jesus in the verses for today. What do you think it means? If you don’t know, send an email to your pastor. He would love to help you out!
  • Next time you are afraid of something, what’s the first thing Jesus wants you to think about? Why can he say that to you?

 

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.
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Courageous Witnesses – April 27, 2022

“We must obey God rather than human beings!”
Acts 5:29

Courageous Witnesses

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Daily Devotion – April 27, 2022

Devotion based on Acts 5:29

See series: Devotions

How do you define courage? I’m not looking for a wordy definition you’d find in a dictionary; I’m looking for a practical description of courage. Peter and the other apostles provide that for us in Acts chapter 5. Shortly after Jesus ascended into heaven, the apostles faced fierce opposition. Jesus had commissioned them to be his witnesses. However, the people of power had commanded them to keep quiet. To whom would they listen? To continue preaching and teaching about Jesus would not only be unpopular, it could be deadly.

“We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name,” the authorities lectured to Peter and the others. You can almost see the apostles dig in their heels and stiffen their backbones as they reply, “We must obey God rather than human beings!” What courage! But from where did it come? Wasn’t Peter the same one who lied about knowing Jesus several weeks earlier? Weren’t these the same apostles who locked themselves into a room after Christ’s death?

Peter and the apostles found courage in the same place we do—in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ! You can almost see Jesus dig in his heels and stiffen his backbone as the Roman soldiers crown him with thorns and force a cross onto his shoulders. Resolutely, courageously Jesus faces the mockery, the suffering, and even the cruel crucifixion. Courageously he dies. Victoriously he rises. You will be my witnesses; he says to you and me.

This courageous Jesus carried our sins to the cross; he now asks us to carry his name to the world. Some will thank us for it. Some will urge us to keep quiet. With strength and courage that comes only from Jesus, we can dig in our heels, stiffen our backbones, and continue to preach and teach about Jesus.

Prayer:
Lord, you have told me to be your witness, to share your love with a world full of people who so badly need to learn of you. Give me courage, not in myself but in you. Help me to seize the opportunities to speak of your saving work whenever they arise. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
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.
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Victoriously Saved for a Purpose – April 26, 2022

To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen.
Revelation 1:5,6

Victoriously Saved for a Purpose

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Daily Devotion – April 26, 2022

Devotion based on Revelation 1:5,6

See series: Devotions

In his Small Catechism, after describing the work of Jesus, Martin Luther wrote: “All this he did that I should be his own, and live under him in his kingdom, and serve him in everlasting righteousness, innocence, and blessedness, just as he has risen from death and lives and rules eternally.” According to Martin Luther, now that Christ has redeemed and rescued us, we now have the opportunity and the motivation to serve him and live for him.

Martin Luther didn’t come up with that concept. He was repeating what the Lord had already said many times through his holy writers, including the apostle John. After assuring us that Jesus loves us and that he has completely freed us from our sins, John offers a purpose for which we have been rescued. Christ has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father.

I am a priest? That brings up images of a clergyman wearing black, listening to someone’s confession, or presiding over a wedding. Instead, think Old Testament priest. He offered sacrifices to God. He helped others see God’s love and goodness. He prayed for the people.

When John says you are a priest, he is reminding you that you have a very special purpose in life. Your day job might be a nurse, accountant, teacher, or mechanic, but your purpose in life is to help others see God’s love and goodness, to pray for others, and to offer sacrifices to God. And by sacrifices, thinking kind words of others, a helpful hand to someone in need, being patient with a co-worker, living with an attitude of thanksgiving and contentment, and sharing the good news about Jesus when given the opportunity. In all these ways you help others see the goodness of God.

Prayer:
Lord, thank you for rescuing me and making me a member of your family. Help me to express my gratitude by the way I live my life—for the good of others and to your glory. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
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.
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SENT just like Flat Stanley – Family Devotion – April 25, 2022

Read: John 20:19-31

On the evening of that first day of the week, the disciples were together behind locked doors because of their fear of the Jews. Jesus came, stood among them, and said to them, “Peace be with you!” After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. So the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord.

Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you! Just as the Father has sent me, I am also sending you.” After saying this, he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. Whenever you forgive people’s sins, they are forgiven. Whenever you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”
John 20:19-23

SENT just like Flat Stanley

 

Family Devotion – April 25, 2022

Devotion based on John 20:19-23

See series: Devotions

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

Have you ever read the book called Flat Stanley? If so, do you remember what happened? Stanley was sleeping, and one morning a bulletin board fell on him. His parents didn’t know what to do, so they decided to take him to a doctor. The doctor was speechless, he did not even know what to say! Stanley was, well, flat!

But Stanley decided to look on the bright side of being flat. Since he was flat, do you know what Stanley could do? He could be sent in the mail! And that’s exactly what happened! His mother put a sandwich and snacks in a box along with Flat Stanley and mailed him to California to visit his friends.

Do you think you could be sent in the mail? No way! You would be way too heavy! And you would have to bring a lot of food! But did you know that even though you can’t be sent in the mail, you can be sent in a different way? That’s what Jesus said in the verses we just read from John 20. This is the passage to remember—John 20:21, “Jesus said to them again, ‘Peace be with you! Just as the Father has sent me, I am also sending you.’”

God probably won’t send you like Flat Stanley, but maybe someday God could send you as a teacher or a pastor. Maybe God will use something you’re really good at to help someone who really needs that. Maybe God will send you on a mission trip to another state or another country. Maybe God will use you to write a devotion like this one so you can send it to others to read.

No matter who we are, we are sent to share the good news of the Father sending his one and only Son, Jesus. Jesus came to take away our sins so that that we can tell others, “Your sins are forgiven.” Jesus came to give us peace. So let’s join the disciples in rejoicing as the Lord sends us out with the best message in the world!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Father, thank you for sending Jesus into our world to save us. Thank you for sending us to tell the world about Jesus. 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

  • Whom did your heavenly Father send to take away your sins?
  • Name someone in your life you can share the message of Jesus with.

Questions for Elementary Age Children

  • Flat Stanley’s mom was the one who sent him. Who is sending you into the world?
  • If you were Flat Stanley and could travel anywhere in the world to share the good news of Jesus, where would you go?

Questions for Middle School and Above

  • Stanley probably didn’t like that he was flattened by the bulletin board, but he turned what should have been a negative thing into something positive. Can you think of something similar in your life?
  • How can you have peace no matter what is going on right now in your life?

 

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.
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I Won! – Week of April 25, 2022

I Won! – Week of April 25, 2022



“Death has been swallowed up in victory. Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Corinthians 15:54b-57



Our younger son, now grown and with a family, has always loved games. As a child, he tried so hard to start “Family Game Night.” I loved it. Our other son and their dad, not so much. For weeks, Adam and I would sit at the kitchen table playing Mancala, Monopoly, or any number of games. Eventually he gave up involving his dad and brother.

When he would come home from college and several years after college, our tradition was cribbage or Scrabble. He was a notable opponent for me. Those rare times when I came out ahead, it was hard to resist the fist pump and a gleeful shout (often with a question mark at the end), “I won!?”.

“I won.” Words of triumph. Words of victory. It can be really sweet to be able to say those words after a rousing match of your favorite game with a friend or family member. There’s a sense of accomplishment and joy. However, that moment of joy typically lasts until you move on to other activities. It was sweet for a moment.

Today’s reading talks about victory at another level entirely. The victory described is the greatest triumph in the history of the world. Christ had been crucified, enduring an unthinkable death, for all of us and the endless sins we commit. “It is finished” are three of the most amazing words ever spoken. They carry the powerful message that the payment God demands for our sins has been fully met through Jesus.

But the story is not over. Jesus did indeed die on Good Friday. And then he declared his victory over Satan. “I won!” he could exclaim like no other victory ever. I’m not sure there was a fist pump that glorious Easter morning, but Christ rising from the dead and an empty tomb, gave evidence for all time that Jesus had won the victory over death for all who believe in him. And this victory was not momentary. It was for all time. This is a victory that is ours every day of our lives. We can begin each day, go through each day, and end each day with the words, “I won…because of Jesus!” His victory over death and sin is our victory. We can live each day, no matter what challenges lie before us, with the confidence that heaven is ours. Peace through God’s forgiveness is ours. God’s faithful promise to be with us in all things is ours. We can say that every single day. There is no other win that comes even close to that.

Since our son got married and had three little ones, we don’t get to that cribbage board quite as often. Those shouts of “I won” now come from the children. It’s the prayer of every Christian that the joyful expression of victory through Christ is ours today and every day. He is risen indeed! His victory is ours.



Prayer

Dear Jesus, May I never lose the joy of Easter and the victory you’ve won for me. Help me to live each day in that joy and peace and to share it with my students, their families, and all those around me. In your name I pray. Amen



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

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