Devotions

Hidden Victory – April 20, 2022

2022/04/20/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them . . . [and] said to them. . . . “Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen!”
Luke 24:4-6

Hidden Victory

Daily Devotion -April 20, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 24:4-6

See series: Devotions

A little girl turns around in a department store, expecting to see her daddy. But he’s not there. Panic.

A woman gets up and goes to the kitchen, expecting to see her husband. But he’s not there. Grief.

Friends go to the arena, expecting to see their favorite performer’s last concert. But he’s not there. Disappointment.

A man goes to the courthouse, expecting to confront his attacker. But he’s not there. Anger.

“He is not here.”

Those four words don’t typically evoke positive feelings. But on the morning of Jesus’ resurrection, the angel’s sermon brings joy and hope bubbling to the surface because those four words are followed by one overpowering truth: He is risen, just as he said. Amid all of life’s disappointments, we have a God who keeps his word.

Jesus is not here because he has risen and ascended to God’s right hand. He’s gone to prepare a place for us. But if he’s gone to prepare a place for us, that means he’s coming back.

Until then, we will still be scared, sad, disappointed, and angered. But let’s not forget what promise opened for us when that stone was flung from its place. Jesus may be hidden from our eyes, but we can always find him in his word. He meets us there with his peace, his joy, his satisfaction, and his grace, and his promise that he will work good for us.

We will not stay in doubt, fear, pain, and sorrow. We will not stay in the grave. We will not stay in our mortal, perishable bodies. We will not stay on this earth, groaning under the weight of sin, but when he comes back, he will take us to live with him on a new earth, cleansed of all evil.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I am so glad that you are not here, that you are risen, just as you said. It means I can trust that you will keep all your promises to me. Amen.

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

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

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

Living Victoriously – April 19, 2022

2022/04/19/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
Colossians 3:1-4

Living Victoriously

Daily Devotion – April 19, 2022

Devotion based on Colossians 3:1-4

See series: Devotions

To the world, the Christian life can look like a wasted life–so much time spent worshiping God and serving other people. Why not take everything this life has to offer and make the most of its pleasures?

Why not? Because we have been raised with Christ, and our lives are hidden with Christ in God. This doesn’t mean we live in some fantasy world. Nor does it mean we cut ourselves off from the joys of life.

We still live, work, and play in this world, but culture’s current trends don’t mold our minds, and life’s disappointments don’t crush our hearts. For our hearts are set on the glorious home that Jesus has prepared for us. And so, we gear our minds to wanting what God wants and walking in God’s ways.

Yes, this makes us look like poor, pitiful fools to the world, but our value comes not from what people see. Our value comes from what God sees. Jesus wraps himself around those who trust in him. So, when God looks at us, he sees one that he loves. He sees one with whom he is incredibly pleased. He sees one who is beautiful and blameless. He sees one who is devoted to our first love, Jesus.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, what grace that I am known, and I am treasured by you. Help me to show this same grace without measure. Amen.

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

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

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

How’s Your Memory? – Family Devotion – April 18, 2022

2022/04/18/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Luke 24:1-12

On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women went to the tomb, carrying the spices they had prepared. They found that the stone had been rolled away from the tomb. When they went in, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men stood by them in dazzling clothing. The women were terrified and bowed down with their faces to the ground.

The men said to them, “Why are you looking for the living among the dead? He is not here, but has been raised! Remember how he told you while he was still in Galilee that the Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again?” Then they remembered his words.
Luke 24:1-8

How’s Your Memory?

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Family Devotion – April 18, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 24:1-8

See series: Devotions

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

Have you ever played the game Memory? If so, you know how it feels when you think a card is in one location, only to flip it over and find out that you were wrong. Then the person you are playing with gets it right. You probably say out loud, “Oh yeah!”

Your parents have probably had a similar feeling when they walk into a room and forget what they were going there for. When it finally comes back to them, they might even say out loud, “Oh yeah!”

This is the same reaction that the women in our verses had when the angels reminded them of Jesus’ words. Jesus had told them that he would willingly be arrested. Jesus had told them that he would die on the cross to take away their sins. Jesus had told them that he would rise from the dead three days later to win for them a place in heaven for all eternity.

But because they were so sad, they forgot for a little while, until they stared into the empty tomb on Easter Sunday and the angels reminded them. They might have even said out loud, “Oh yeah!” as they remembered Jesus’ words.

It’s easy for you to forget where the cards are in the game “Memory.” It’s easy for your parents to forget what they were looking for when they are walking from room to room in your house. And it’s easy for all of us to forget Jesus’ words and promises for us.

That is why he gave us Christian friends, parents, and a church family—to remind each other of Jesus’ words. When you are feeling alone, remember Jesus’ words, “Surely I am with you always.” When you are feeling afraid, remember Jesus’ words, “He will command his angels to protect you.” When you are missing a loved one who has gone to heaven, remember Jesus’ words, “In my Father’s house are many mansions. I am going to prepare a place for you.”

What a great day to join the women peering into Jesus’ empty tomb and say out loud, “Oh yeah!” and remember Jesus’ words.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, continue to put people in our lives—parents, pastors, teachers, and friends—who remind us of your words. Send your Spirit to work through these words to bring us the message of comfort and forgiveness. 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 do you remember every time you see a picture of a cross?
Name one thing that you want to remember when you think about Jesus.

Questions for Elementary Age Children

What is something that you recently forgot? How do you feel when you forget something?
Put to memory Jesus’ words in John 3:16 and remember it tonight before bed. “For God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish, but have eternal life.”

Questions for Middle School and Above

Discuss: Why is it important to memorize Jesus’ words?
Share with your family one of your favorite Bible passages that you have memorized.

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Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

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

Look Up! – Week of April 18, 2022

2022/04/18/in Devotions, ECME Devotions

Look Up! – Week of April 18, 2022

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

Colossians 3:1-4

ECME Devotion April 18, 2022

See series: ECME Devotions

Can you imagine what it was like for those who walked to the tomb that Easter morning? I imagine the grief they were wrestling with. I think about the questions that may have been rolling around in their minds. I think of Mary, so overwhelmed with sadness that she didn’t even realize that it was Jesus, risen from the grave, talking with her. And then, as he spoke her name, everything changed. Imagine her face as she looked up into the eyes of her Savior. I cannot fully comprehend that moment.

Aren’t we often so much like Mary, the Mary walking to the tomb? We can be so focused on the path in front of us, the tasks before us, the weight of our sins and a sinful world. We so often go through days with our heads down, literally and figuratively. We struggle to focus during worship, during devotions, during prayer or Bible study. Our minds wander to those earthly things that so easily distract us.

We just celebrated the journey of Holy Week from Jesus’ triumphant ride into Jerusalem, the Lord’s Supper, the Garden of Gethsemane, the trial, the suffering Savior on the cross, and finally the inexpressible joy of the empty tomb. We left those Easter services with hearts full of joy and peace rejoicing over the Risen Savior. We celebrated with family and friends. And then comes Monday.

Our verses today remind us to keep our hearts on things above, on Christ. Like Mary, look up at our Savior Jesus. Remind yourself and those around you that Easter isn’t a day, but the message of the Risen Savior is for every day. Because of what Jesus has done for us, each day we can face the challenges of our life on earth with a joy and peace that comes from confidence in the promises kept by our faithful God. Set your mind on things above, on what God has done in love through Jesus. As you walk through each day, let these realities empower your life, rejoicing that heaven is yours. He is risen! He is risen, indeed!

Prayer

Dear Jesus, these words are full of the joy of Easter. Help me to keep that joy not just on Easter, but every day.

He lives, all glory to his name!
He lives, my Jesus, still the same.
Oh, the sweet joy this sentence gives:
I know that my Redeemer lives!
CW 21 441:8

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

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

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

The Victorious Life – April 18, 2022

2022/04/18/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

“I will sing to the LORD, for he is highly exalted. Both horse and driver he has hurled into the sea. The LORD is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise him.”
Exodus 15:1,2

The Victorious Life

Daily Devotion – April 18, 2022

Devotion based on Exodus 15:1,2

See series: Devotions

We like to remember the “good old days” when life was better, simpler, more wholesome. We long for those days again. But there are certain things we wish we could forget. And sometimes those things cast such a long shadow we think we cannot escape them and have no choice but to embrace them.

The Israelites’ time as slaves in Egypt was not the good old days. Even after God had delivered them with a mighty hand through the Red Sea, they still couldn’t shake their past. When the path to the promised land looked too difficult, they were ready to return to their former life of slavery.

However, God hadn’t just put space between them and their former way of life. He had shattered it and rendered it powerless. In its place, he gave them a new life and a new identity. As God’s chosen people, they had every reason to let go of their past, rejoice in their present, and hope in the future.

Easter is our Red Sea experience. It is the day that Jesus crossed over from death to life, shattering death and rendering the devil powerless. In its place, he gives us the gift of new life and a new identity. Through faith in Jesus, we are God’s chosen people.

If the path to God’s eternal promised land looks too difficult, too out of grasp, don’t look back. Don’t long for what once was. In Christ, good days do not lie behind us. Nor does our past define us. Jesus’ resurrection means that every day is a new day, a new life, for you and me.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I praise you for you are my strength against temptation, my defense against condemnation, and the joy of my salvation. Amen.

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

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

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

No Nonsense – April 17, 2022

2022/04/17/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

When they came back from the tomb, they told all these things to the Eleven and to all the others. It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James and the others with them who told this to the apostles. But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense. Peter, however, got up and ran to the tomb. Bending over, he saw the strips of linen lying by themselves, and he went away, wondering to himself what had happened.
Luke 24:9-12

No Nonsense

Daily Devotion – April 17, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 24:9-12

See series: Devotions

“Nonsense.” That’s what the apostles thought. They couldn’t believe the testimony of the women who had been to Jesus’ tomb. The stone rolled away. The tomb empty. An angel proclaiming Jesus has risen. Utter nonsense! The evidence, however, told a different story. Eventually, every detail Peter saw at the tomb supported the women’s earlier witness.

“Nonsense.” That’s what many people today say about the resurrection of Jesus. How could anyone be so foolish as to believe such a thing? It’s a fabrication. It’s a collection of exaggerations. It’s pure fiction. Nothing like this could ever happen. Still, the facts prove otherwise.

The facts are clear, and they are the foundation for the Christian faith. Jesus rose from the dead. The testimony of the Bible proves it. The eye-witness accounts of more than 500 people prove it. The consistency of the historical account proves it. The change brought about in the lives of Christians proves it.

The resurrection of Jesus is hardly nonsense. It is the most powerful and important truth ever!

Prayer:
Dearest Jesus, my ever-living Savior, fill me with the confidence I need to trust in your resurrection. When my mind would lead me to uncertainty and doubt, fill my heart with the peace that you have secured. Amen.

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

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

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

Transformed – teen devotion – April 17, 2022

2022/04/17/in Teen Devotions

One truth shared: Easter causes us to confidently, continually proclaim—Christ is risen! He is risen indeed.

Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed—in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality. When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “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 15:51-57

Life Marches Victorious Over Death

Death had its moment in the Garden. Even though Satan tried to convince Eve “You will not surely die” if she would just take hold of the fruit and eat it, death became a reality for the world’s first couple—and every person and couple after them—because sin had entered the world.

Death had its moment for the children of Israel. God gave them a new land with everything needed to not only survive, but also thrive. But they were scared—intimidated by the people of Canaan. So God had them wander—wandering for 40 years until the desert floor God confined them to was littered with their lifeless bodies.

Death had its moment on Calvary. Christ, the Son of the Almighty, had been brutalized, beaten, and crucified—hanging there until his heart stopped beating and his lifeless body was taken down to be buried in a tomb.

Yes, death had its moment. But it didn’t last. And why? Because “Death has been swallowed up in victory.” The tomb couldn’t hold the triumphant Son of the Most High. He had paid the price. He had won the battle for our souls and the war for our salvation. Bursting forth from the tomb, we witness the Father’s stamp of approval on a mission perfectly completed.

In the resurrection, we see that life marches victorious over death. Death still has its moments, including the one you and I will eventually have with it. While it remains a reality for all who are born into this sinful world, it is not the end. It’s described by the apostle Paul as a “sleep.” People wake up from sleep. Sleep is welcomed. Sleep refreshes and prepares us for what is next.

And what is next for the believer in Jesus? An eternity with him in heaven. Paul adds, “‘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.”

We are victorious because Jesus was victorious. We have heaven because Jesus suffered hell. Our sins are washed away because Jesus took them on himself to the cross. Death had its moment. But we have eternity because Christ conquered death and has given us the victory in him alone!

Prayer: Lord Jesus, you conquered death that first Easter Sunday and burst forth from the tomb. Fill my heart with Easter joy, reminding me daily that because you live, I also will live eternally with you in heaven. Amen.

Teen Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

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

Nothing More Needs to Be Said – April 16, 2022

2022/04/16/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

[Jesus] humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!
Philippians 2:8

Nothing More Needs to Be Said

Daily Devotion – April 16, 2022

Devotion based on Philippians 2:8

See series: Devotions

Imagine it’s about 30 years after Jesus rose from the dead and ascended into heaven. Imagine you are a career military man, recently retired from the Roman army. Like many other retired soldiers, you decide to live in a town called Philippi. You like it there because so many of your neighbors are just like you—people who know what military life is all about.

Then it happens: The apostle Paul comes to your town with the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. You believe his message. You help form a Christian congregation. You begin sharing the message of Christ with others.

But then life gets difficult. Because of your Christian faith, some of your old friends want nothing to do with you anymore. Some in your church family are even facing open hostility because of what they believe. You have moments when you wonder how much the Lord Jesus really loves you.

Then, a godsend—a letter from Paul! As you read it, there is one sentence that hits you hard. Paul is describing what Jesus was willing to do for you. He says, “He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!

Nothing more needs to be said. You see, as a soldier, you know what death on a cross is. The sight of gasping, writhing victims, the sound of their sobs, the smell, the flies—all have seared themselves into your memory long ago. And the Son of God willingly did that for you.

Does Jesus love you? There he was on the cross. There he bore your sins in your place.

Nothing more needs to be said.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, you went to the cross in my place to take my every sin away. You love me. For that I love you. And I thank you. Amen.

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

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

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

Finally, It’s Finished. – Family Devotion – April 15, 2022

2022/04/15/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: John 19:17-30

Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
John 19:30

Finally, It’s Finished.

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Family Devotion – April 15, 2022

Devotion based on John 19:30

See series: Devotions

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

A dad arrived at a little league baseball game a bit late. Through the chain link fence, he asked, “What’s the score?” A little leaguer replied, “We’re losing 11-0.”

“Ouch,” the dad said, “too bad.”

“Oh, it’s okay,” the boy quickly answered, “we haven’t been up to bat yet.”

On Good Friday, Jesus went to bat for you and me. And when it seemed like we were losing, he climbed up on the cross and won the victory. While rest of us stood and stared with hopeful faces pressed up to the chain-link fence, Jesus stepped up to the plate and smacked a homerun over the devil’s head—up, up, and away! It’s gone! Sins gone! Satan defeated! Salvation won! He ended death’s long winning streak with one final word from the cross, “It is finished.” And with that, Jesus died and placed himself into the hands of his loving heavenly Father.

None of us were standing there at the cross the day Jesus died. But today, we are. And as we do, we see all that was there:

Jesus was there. But that doesn’t surprise us. After all, this is the reason he was born. He understood his mission from the beginning, and until the end, he carried out that mission just as God planned.
Sin was there. We see it on Jesus’ face, on his back, on his hands and feet. We see it in the black darkness of the noon-day sky. It was there with all its power, for “the wages of sin is death.” All sin—the ones you see or can’t see, your favorites or most shameful—strapped to his sin-free back.
Love was there. What held Jesus to the cross our sins shaped and made? Amazing love caused Jesus to say “yes” to the thorns, the nails, and the cross.
Death was there. Even the bravest person has cried and felt the fear of death But as we look and see our Savior die, we know that death dies too! Good Friday is the day death died!
Victory was there. Death lost; Jesus won! You and I and the souls of all people are saved and set free. Thank God Jesus won the victory that day.

On Good Friday, every cross we see reminds us: Sin was there. Death was there. Love was there. We were there. But most importantly, Jesus was there.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for being there for me and my family on the cross. As I quietly think of you and what you did for me, may it fill me with an eager hope that soon will shout out your name! 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

Names as many things as you can remember that were there at the cross the day Jesus died.
Which one is the most important and why?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

What’s the part that you dislike the most about Good Friday?
What would have happened if Jesus hadn’t gone through that hard part?

Questions for Middle School and Above

In your own words, explain what exactly Jesus meant when he said on the cross, “It is finished.”
Name at least one area of your life that immediately benefits from hearing Jesus say, “It is finished.”

Download and print devotion

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

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

If no Easter – April 15, 2022

2022/04/15/in Devotions, Military Devotions

If no Easter – April 15, 2022

He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him.
Mark 16:6

Military Devotion – April 15, 2022

Devotion based on Mark 16:6

See series: Military Devotions

If there were no Easter, there would be no Christmas. No Savior would have been born.

If there were no Easter, there would be no reason to celebrate a birthday. Each year added to life would be but a step downward to the pit of the grave. There would be no reason to celebrate a New Year, either. Birthdays and New Year’s would still be observed. The passage of time could not be unnoticed. But the turning of the years would bring no joy.

Of course, joy can be artificially stimulated. Drugs and alcohol can do that. So can indulging in anything that gives pleasure to mind and body. The ancient phrase is, “Eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die.” That is called fatalism.

If there were no Easter, our entire life would be a fatality.

If there were no Easter, everything we attempt would end up in failure. So what if we were handed a diploma; were decorated for valor; and amassed a fortune? In the end, it would mean nothing. “Meaningless! Meaningless!” Solomon concluded. “Everything is meaningless” (Ecclesiastes 1:2). If there were no Easter, that phrase would be the billboard for our life.

If there were no Easter there would be no hope. Any avoidance of pain or misfortune would only be a postponing of the inevitable disaster. For a while we might walk in sunshine, but the path would lead only to darkness. The horizon would offer no brightening of the clouds, no streaks of early dawn—only the blackness of more night.

To such a one the words of the poet are sent: “Do not go gentle into that good night. Rage, rage against the dying of the light.”

If there were no Easter, rage would be our only recourse—feeble and fruitless as it may be. The night of death would not be good. Terror would replace rage. The bars of the dungeon would be ever locked. Misery would be our eternal cellmate.

Instead, we sing out the words: “But now is Christ arisen!”

The women did not find the body of Jesus on Easter morning. The stone was rolled away. An angel with the appearance of lightning was sitting on it. “He has risen!” he announced. “Come see the place where they laid him.”

Thousands of years later, no matter where we are, no matter how old, no matter what our circumstances in life—thousands of years later we take up the invitation of the angel. Through the eyes of the Gospel writers, with words sent from heaven, we draw near to the graveyard not far from Golgotha, and we peer into the tomb.

There we see the empty grave. There we see proof that Jesus of Nazareth, true man and true God, conquered death, paid our ransom, and gave us life everlasting.

It is Easter once again—and we celebrate it!

Our hearts sing the old hymn:
He is arisen! Glorious Word! Now reconciled is God, my Lord;
The gates of heaven are open.
My Jesus did triumphant die, and Satan’s arrows broken lie,
Destroyed hell’s fiercest weapon.
Oh, hear! What cheer! Christ victorious,
Rising glorious, Life is giving.
He was dead, but now is living! Amen.
(Christian Worship 461)

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.

His Punishment, Our Peace – April 15, 2022

2022/04/15/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

He was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.
Isaiah 53:5

His Punishment, Our Peace

Daily Devotion – April 15, 2022

Devotion based on Isaiah 53:5

See series: Devotions

You are on trial. You would like to think that it is just a misunderstanding, a mistake. They have the wrong person, but you know that’s not the case. You have heard the charges, and it is impossible to deny even one of them.

You’ve been greedy. You’ve been selfish. You’ve lied. You’ve hurt others with your words and hated them in your thoughts. You’ve been guilty of lust and discontentment. You’ve shown you don’t trust God or love him more than anything else. And you can say, “Well, nobody’s perfect,” but that’s no defense. The law—God’s law—demands perfect, loving obedience in everything we think, say, and do.

As the evidence is brought forward, you slide down further and further in your seat. You knew the facts were against you, but you tried to forget just how much evidence there was that you were a lawbreaker.

The case is over. As the judge prepares to read the verdict, you see his son walk into the courtroom. He’s the one against whom you committed every one of those crimes. He speaks a few words to his father, and you are sure you are a goner.

“The facts in the case are clear,” the judge says. “No crime can go unpunished. I, therefore, sentence my son to be cursed and crushed and killed on a cross. He will endure no less than the torment of hell. Justice demands that he suffer mortal wounds for the crimes that have been committed. The defendant is free to go.”

That is what this day that we call Good Friday is all about. Jesus, the perfect Son of God, was punished in your place. The sentence for your sins was inflicted on him. The disobedience that made you an enemy of God has been erased from your record forever!

Because of Jesus, you have peace with God. Perfect, permanent peace paid for by the punishment of God’s own Son. Because of Jesus, you are free from guilt and even death. What wondrous love! What amazing grace!

Prayer:
Jesus, my Savior, you gave your life, your all, for me. What a marvelous gift! Amen.

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

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

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

His Food, Our Fill – April 14, 2022

2022/04/14/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

[Jesus] said to them, “I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. For I tell you, I will not eat it again until it finds fulfillment in the kingdom of God.”
Luke 22:15,16

His Food, Our Fill

Daily Devotion – April 14, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 22:15,16

See series: Devotions

Don’t you love a good meal? Maybe it’s a birthday, anniversary, or holiday spent with people you love. Or it’s a special place—a favorite restaurant or a new one that comes highly recommended. Maybe it’s the one favorite meal that you never get tired of.

On the night before Jesus died, he enjoyed a meal with his friends. It wasn’t just any meal. It was the Passover meal, a special feast carefully prepared, served, and shared by the Jewish people every year.

The Passover was festive not just because it was celebrated with family. The Passover celebrated how God rescued the Jewish people from slavery and brought them to the Promised Land. Maybe best of all, it pictured a rescue still to come—a rescue that Jesus came to accomplish.

As Jesus sat down to that meal that night, he knew what would soon happen. He knew his body would hang on a cross and die. His blood would pour out of wounds that would be inflicted on him. He knew he would give his life for the sins of the world.

But knowing this didn’t sour the experience that night. It made Jesus look forward to it even more. The lamb killed and eaten in the Passover meal would foreshadow the way Jesus would be sacrificed to free us from our sins and bring us to the Promised Land of heaven, a sacrifice he was eager to make for you and me.

Jesus still longs to eat with us. When we hear his Word, he satisfies our hunger with his mercy and love. In Holy Communion, Jesus miraculously gives his body and blood with the bread and wine to remind us of his sacrifice and assure us of his forgiveness. With these gifts, he feeds our souls until we feast with him in heaven.

Prayer:
Jesus, you eagerly desired my salvation. Satisfy my soul with your Word. Amen.

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

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

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

A Meal Worth Remembering – Family Devotion – April 13, 2022

2022/04/13/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Luke 22:7-20

And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.”

In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.
Luke 22:19-20

A Meal Worth Remembering

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Family Devotion – April 13, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 22:19-20

See series: Devotions

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

Today is part of a very special week called Holy Week. There’s even a special meal with it—usually on Thursday. It’s called the Lord’s Supper because the one who invites us to it is the Lord. The one who prepares the meal is the Lord, because he’s the only one who could pull off this kind of supper. If Jesus isn’t present, this meal isn’t happening. It’s also called the Sacrament of the Altar because the meal is served from the table or the altar at the front of church. The church altar reminds us of the sacrifice Jesus made for our sins.

If you’re a child listening, someday, you will be invited to this meal after you learn more about it. Until then, be encouraged to learn all you can by watching. Here’s what you will see: little pieces of bread and swallows of wine are handed out by your pastor or church leader. Listen carefully and you will hear, “Take eat, this is my body… take drink, this is my blood.” If your mom or dad or grandpa or grandma said those words, you would think they were joking! But because Jesus is saying those words, then what he says must be true.

Still, how strange this sounds, right? If you can’t understand it, remember this: Jesus is preparing the meal, Jesus is serving the meal, and Jesus is speaking throughout the meal. This is a Jesus’ meal. Who does he want to come to his meal? He invites moms and dads, sons and daughters, teachers and students whose mouths got smudged with dirt from arguing and back talking; whose faces are red from getting angry; whose hearts feel heavy from it all and are truly sorry for it all. “Come on in,” Jesus invites as he motions us to his table. “From the look of things, you need to eat and drink for the forgiveness of sins.”

No one else may know what you have done. No one else may know exactly what you’re feeling. But Jesus knows. And that’s why every Holy Week and every week you see the Lord’s Supper in church, Jesus motions again and again for you to come to his table… as often as you hunger and thirst for the forgiveness of sins. Jesus wants you to know that what he did on the cross for the whole world, he did for you. For you. It’s in that meal.

Now that’s a meal worth remembering!

Closing Prayer:

“Jesus is the Word that spoke it;
Jesus took the bread and broke it.
And what His Word makes it;
This I believe and take it.”
(John Donne, adapted from “On the Sacrament”; 1654 edition, p. 352.)

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 the name of the special meal that was talked about today?
Describe to your parent(s) what they smell like when they sit back down after the Lord’s Supper. Then ask them how they feel and what they’re thinking after the Lord’s Supper.

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Because of God’s Word, what did Jesus promise would be added to the bread and the wine in the Lord’s Supper?
Why is Jesus’ body and blood connected with forgiveness in the Lord’s Supper?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Why is receiving the Lord’s Supper something to take seriously?
Discuss with your parent(s) how often you want to receive the Lord’s Supper and why.

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Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

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

Just the Gentle Savior We Need – April 13, 2022

2022/04/13/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

He will not shout or cry out, or raise his voice in the streets. A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out.
Isaiah 42:2,3

Just the Gentle Savior We Need

Daily Devotion – April 13, 2022

Devotion based on Isaiah 42:2,3

See series: Devotions

We are in the middle of a week that the church calls “Holy Week.” This week, we hear about and reflect on the events of the final week before Jesus died. The Bible tells us more about the events of this week than about any other week of Jesus’ life.

It is perhaps noteworthy then that it seems there is nothing written about Wednesday of Holy Week. Some label this day “Silent Wednesday.”

Though the silence stands out in contrast to the other details of this week, it doesn’t stand out from how Jesus often operates. It’s not that Jesus never raises his voice, but often, he chooses gentle silence and tender conversations.

This is especially the case with the bruised and broken. When we are broken by our inadequacies and bruised by our insecurities, Jesus speaks words of gentle, unconditional love. When the struggles of life leave us worn and weary, Jesus promises his strength and pledges never to leave us. When our guilt leaves us feeling crushed and hopeless, Jesus assures us that he forgives us completely and makes us new.

And when our trust in Jesus is hanging on by a thread, Jesus doesn’t shame us or disown us. Instead, he points us to his cross and tenderly says, “There I kept my promise to you. There I died for you. There I opened paradise for you. I love you, and I’m not going to let you go.”

How fitting it is that Jesus, who entered Jerusalem in humility to go to the cross and die for us, now comes humbly and gently in the words of the Bible to comfort and encourage us, to heal our hearts and restore our hope. That’s where you will find him. Don’t seek him in the flashy or spectacular. Don’t look for him in the alarming or attention-getting.

Look for him and listen to him in the Bible. There you’ll find just the gentle Savior you need, one who patiently forgives, consistently cares, and never fails you in your time of need.

Prayer:
Jesus, gentle Savior, thank you for dealing gently and lovingly with me in my weakness. Amen.

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

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

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

Humble Jesus Is My Lord – April 12, 2022

2022/04/12/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

At the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Philippians 2:10,11

Humble Jesus Is My Lord

Daily Devotion – April 12, 2022

Devotion based on Philippians 2:10,11

See series: Devotions

That day was a glimpse at a hidden reality. Jesus’ true identity was hidden. While he lived in this world, he looked like anybody else. He ate and drank. He walked, worked, and slept.

There were hints that there might be more to Jesus. Because of the way he taught with such confidence and authority. The miraculous ways he helped people. The loving, gentle way he spoke to and cared for people. But overall, Jesus still looked like just a man to many.

That day, something looked different, though, if not about Jesus, then about how people reacted to him. He rode into Jerusalem on a donkey. And his friends and followers acted as if it were a presidential motorcade or a parade for a king returning from battle. They were shouting his praises and waving palm branches like their country’s flag. There was pomp and circumstance. And crowds of people joined in the celebration along the road. They were treating him like a king.

Even though Jesus seemed majestic that day on his donkey, it was later that week when his greatest and most praiseworthy work as Lord and King would happen in unthinkable humility—hidden from sight. He would bleed and die in weakness and shame to battle death and destroy sin’s curse.

Because he did, he rose from the dead and rules in heaven, where we and all who see him now by faith will see him in glory and praise our Lord and King.

Prayer:
Jesus, move my heart to acknowledge and praise you as Lord now and always. Amen.

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

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

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

Humbled. Exalted – Week of April 11, 2022

2022/04/11/in Devotions, ECME Devotions

Humbled. Exalted. – Week of April 11, 2022

And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Philippians 2:8-11

ECME Devotion April 11, 2022

See series: ECME Devotions

It’s Holy Week. A week that has been part of the church year for centuries. Holy means, “set apart.” The days of Holy Week are intended to be set apart from other days of the year. They fit together and yet each day has a focus that leads us through Jesus’ final days before the cross and the empty tomb of Easter.

The week begins with Palm Sunday. On that day, we remember when Christ, completely aware of what was before him, headed into Jerusalem. He could have decided to avoid Jerusalem that week. He also could have entered quietly. Not our Jesus. He came in a manner that was not easily missed. To those who attended his entry, they likely had no idea what they were witnessing. Here was the Son of God who created all things and who came for their salvation riding on a lowly donkey. At the same time, the people had heard about this Jesus. They honored him with a carpet of coats and palm branches, a sign of honor. They shouted words of praise for him.

Today’s text from Philippians reminds us who this Jesus is. He is the Son of God, the Creator of all things. Jesus willingly put all his power, his majesty, his glory in heaven aside to take on human nature. He was a true human. He experienced all that any other human being experiences—cold, hunger, fatigue, temptation. At the same time, he was still fully God with all the power, all the strength, all the glory that was his. This is one of those things that is impossible to understand. How can he be fully human and fully God at the same time? I don’t know. Our human reason can’t understand this. We can only accept it by faith.

Why would the Creator of all things, humble himself even to the point of death on a cross, the humiliating death by crucifixion? At any moment he could have stopped those who planned and carried out his crucifixion, but he didn’t. Why? You. Me. He put his glory aside so that he could fulfill God’s promise of salvation for all of us.

Is that the end of the story? By no means. Jesus conquered Satan and took all our sins on himself. He won the victory that we could never win. Today he sits at God the Father’s right hand where God has exalted him. Today’s text emphasizes that God gave Jesus the name that will cause people to bow in honor of him. It’s the only name that saves. He is our Savior, our King.
As you go through Holy Week, set apart time each day to focus on the events of this week and all that Jesus did for you, for me, for all. Spend time reading the account and pondering all that Jesus has done in humility and love. Spend time in prayer with the One whose grace is yours.

Prayer

All glory, laud, and honor to you, Redeemer, King,
To whom the lips of children made sweet hosannas ring.
As you received their praises, accept the prayers we bring,
O Source of every blessing, our good and gracious King. Amen
CW 21 412:5

Holy Week Readings: The account of the events of Holy Week can be found at Luke 19-24 or John 12-20. Choose one (or both) to read through on your own during this Holy Week.

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

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

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

Jesus Knows How to Make an Entrance – Family Devotion – April 11, 2022

2022/04/11/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Luke 19:28-40

As Jesus went along, people spread their cloaks on the road… and the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen:

“Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!”
“Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!”
Luke 19:36-38

Jesus Knows How to Make an Entrance

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Family Devotion – April 11, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 19:36-38

See series: Devotions

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

This week is very special, so special that it has a special name: Holy Week. It begins with a day called Palm Sunday. That’s the day Jesus made a grand entrance to begin his work to defeat our enemies. Jesus told two of his disciples to go ahead and find a young donkey that no one had ever ridden. “Bring it back,” Jesus said. So they went and found it… just as Jesus told them.

Remember another grand entrance of Jesus into our world—at Christmas? There was a census decree that everyone was to register in their hometown, including Mary and Joseph. While there, she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger. Remember the shepherds keeping watch over their flocks who heard the angel announce, “Christ is born in Bethlehem”? Remember the sign? “You’ll find him lying in a manger.” So the shepherds hurried and found it… just as they were told, just like the disciples found the young donkey… just as they were told.

Jesus enters as a humble baby, and now he enters as a humble king. Two grand but humble entrances, both to shouts of praise!

A glorious company of angels announcing: Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests!”
A great crowd with palm branches shouting: “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven! And glory in the highest!”

You praise the cook after a great meal. But Jesus deserves the highest level of praise—the kind only given to God. Why? Because people saw things done that no one else could do: Jesus gave new ears to deaf people, new legs to those who’d never walked, new life to the dead, and he forgave people their sins!

Two grand entrances. Two concerts of praise. All for one long-awaited King who arrives this week to defeat our enemies… just as he told us. But instead of fighting them, he surrenders himself to them. Jesus knows that’s the only way he could defeat them.

Praise the King this Holy Week! What he does is not for himself, but for you.

Closing Prayer:

“Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!” Dear Jesus, during this Holy Week, help us think of you more than we ever have before. When we do, we will have so many reasons to give you our praise! 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 the special name for this week?
What should we do to welcome Jesus as our King?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Name two important grand entrances Jesus made for us.
Explain the importance of both of those entrances.

Questions for Middle School and Above

Name up to three enemies that Jesus intended to fight for us during Holy Week.
Explain why Jesus had to surrender to our enemies in order to defeat them for us.

Download and print devotion

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

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

He Became Nothing for You – April 11, 2022

2022/04/11/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Christ Jesus . . . being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing.
Philippians 2:5-7

He Became Nothing for You

Daily Devotion – April 11, 2022

Devotion based on Philippians 2:5-7

See series: Devotions

We live in a culture obsessed with me. From little on, children are taught to believe in themselves. Embrace who you are. Celebrate the things that make you unique and different. As a phrase growing in popularity puts it, “You do you!”

God made each of us unique. And blending in with the crowds, doing what everyone else is doing, isn’t always wise. But is self-pride really the answer? Tragically, in this world of self, more and more people come up empty when they seek worth and value in just being who they are.

Jesus, however, had every reason to “do you.” He was the perfect Son of God. He had no flaws to be ashamed of. But what did he do? He made himself nothing. Not because he wasn’t happy with who he was, but because he wasn’t happy with who we were and what the future held for us.

Without Jesus, our self-focused ways could only end in self-destruction. But Jesus came down from heaven to serve us in humility. He set aside his rights as the Son of God to give us the right to be children of God. He made himself nothing to make you something.

Jesus rode the road of humility and suffering to give you hope—hope that is not based on what anyone else thinks of you or what you think of yourself, but hope that is based on how Jesus sees you and what Jesus was willing to do for you.

Jesus saw every flaw and failure in you that no one should be proud of, and he humbled himself to endure its shame for you. Jesus was judged, not by self-righteous hypocrites, but by a holy God. Because Jesus took our place, the same God judges us worthy of love, worthy of life, worthy of heaven. What he thinks of us is worth more than what anyone else says.

Find your worth, meaning, and hope in him. And then “do you” as a redeemed and forgiven child of God.

Prayer:
Jesus, you became nothing for me. Help me find my hope and worth in you. Amen.

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

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

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

Reason to Keep Going – April 10, 2022

2022/04/10/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; . . . And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!
Philippians 2:5,6,8

Reason to Keep Going

Daily Devotion – April 10, 2022

Devotion based on Philippians 2:5,6,8

See series: Devotions

In the state house at Albany, New York, there is a small artifact that tells a big story. It’s a letter written by President Abraham Lincoln. The letter grants a full pardon to a soldier found guilty of desertion. The soldier’s name is Roswell McIntyre. The letter is dated October 4, 1864.

As you read the letter, you can’t help but notice some additional scribbling on the lower left of the page. It’s this additional scribbling that completes the story. This extra note on the letter is dated 1865. It reads, “Taken from the body of R. McIntyre at the battle of Five Forks, Virginia.”

That’s the story of Roswell McIntyre. He was a man guilty of desertion. But instead of disgrace and punishment, he received a full pardon from his president. He was so grateful for that pardon that he carried it with him for the rest of the war. It kept him going. It empowered him to stand and fight. It empowered him to remain a faithful soldier to the end.

It’s no accident that the Bible compares our lives as Christians to those of soldiers. The spiritual dangers are great. The temptation to desert our Lord can be fierce. And, truth be told, you and I must confess that there have been many times we have run away from following the Lord’s will for our lives. For such desertion, you and I deserve God’s abandonment.

But because of Jesus, we have received a full pardon instead. Because of the cross, our failures are washed away. Through faith in him, we are forgiven and not condemned.

Keep that pardon with you. Pull it out and read it every day. Remember who you are in your Savior. It will keep you going. It will keep you faithful to the moment he takes you home.

Prayer:
Dearest Jesus, in you I stand completely forgiven. Empower me to fight the good fight. Empower me to be faithful to the end. Amen.

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

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

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

Transformed – teen devotion – April 10, 2022

2022/04/10/in Teen Devotions

One truth shared: The apostle Paul describes the humility of Jesus and encourages us to imitate it.

In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:

Who, being in very nature God,
did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;
rather, he made himself nothing
by taking the very nature of a servant,
being made in human likeness.
And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
by becoming obedient to death—
even death on a cross!

Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
and gave him the name that is above every name,
that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.
Philippians 2:5-11

Palm Sunday: His Humility, Our Hope

It has been said that humility is “thinking of yourself less, not thinking ‘less of yourself.’” Humility can be difficult to learn, and sometimes it is easier to get stuck in a line of thinking that is self-deprecating and unhealthy.

What is true humility? Why is it important? Let’s look at Jesus.

Jesus is God. He is perfect and came down to Earth and became a human. He was still 100% God, but he humbled himself to be born in human form. He did many things that most people would consider to be “below them.” He washed his disciples’ feet. He ate with prostitutes, tax collectors, and people who were looked down on in society. Verse 8 of today’s Scripture says that he humbled himself even more by taking our place on the cross.

Our value comes from his love, which he demonstrates with humility. When the world tells us we are nothing, remember Jesus, who emptied himself so that we could be glorified. When we focus on Christ, everything falls into perspective for us as Christians. No longer do we need to feel hurt if we are not acknowledged as we thought we should be. Nor do we need to feel the desire to put others down to make us feel better about ourselves. Instead of focusing on self, let’s build others up and remind them of what God thinks of them. And should we forget, if we get caught up in the day-to-day minutia that clouds our thinking and judgement, we know our record is still spotless in God’s sight because of what he has done. There is no fear or shame to come to the Lord asking for forgiveness, because has already died for those sins. It has been said that “The biggest sins we can’t forget, God cannot remember.”

Be like Christ. Be humble. Serve others. Let the love of God flow through you and around you. Be content, knowing what the Lord has in store for you. Your hope is grounded in his undying faithfulness. And if you must boast, boast in the Lord!

Prayer: Gracious and Almighty Lord, when I fall or my ego gets knocked down, forgive me and ground me in your Son. Help me to think of myself less, not less of myself. My value is found in your love and your life that was given for me. Keep me always mindful of the hope that is found in your humility that achieved my victory. Give me strength for today and every day until I see you and spend forever with you in glory. Amen.

Teen Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

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

Forget What Is Behind You – April 9, 2022

2022/04/09/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:13,14

Forget What Is Behind You

Daily Devotion – April 9, 2022

Devotion based on Philippians 3:13,14

See series: Devotions

It was 1936, and the career of an obscure racehorse seemed over. Seabiscuit had had his shot at the big time, but all his efforts had been disappointments. Perhaps he was destined for failure. He was small in stature and walked with a gimp; he didn’t even look like a racehorse. By the end, his owner was simply using Seabiscuit as a training horse—making him lose in order to bolster the confidence of other horses.

It was then that Seabiscuit crossed paths with a mysterious trainer by the name of Tom Smith. Somehow Tom was able to get Seabiscuit to forget all his failures and rediscover the joy of running. So much so that Seabiscuit went on to become one of the most successful racehorses in the 20th Century.

Don’t you wish you could do that? Don’t you wish you could somehow forget all the sinful failures of your past and focus your future on something that fills you with joy and purpose?

That’s why Jesus came. His blood has washed away the guilt of your past. That means you can truly forget what is behind you. And that same blood has secured your present and your future. That means that you can now focus on the pure joy of living for him.

After all, the past does not determine your future. Jesus does.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, so often I have allowed the sinful failures of my past to rule over my present. Forgive me. Empower me to see that, in you, my sinful past is gone. Fill me again with the joy of giving my future to you. Amen.

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

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

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

It’s Time to Take Out the Trash – Family Devotion – April 8, 2022

2022/04/08/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Philippians 3:4b-14

I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ.
Philippians 3:8-9

It’s Time to Take Out the Trash

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Family Devotion – April 8, 2022

Devotion based on Philippians 3:8-9

See series: Devotions

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

There’s a tradition in homes and churches this time of year. With the weather warming, it’s a great time to open doors and windows and do some spring cleaning. There are places around your house where clutter accumulates, like the crushed boxes and hefty bags stuffed in the trash can that we push to the street curb. Or like the moldy apple cores and dried out leftovers that go down the garbage disposal. It’s the dirt you vacuum up from the carpet or sweep from the floors of your garages. What do you do after changing a diaper, do you keep it? Eww, wrinkle your nose and throw it away! Why do we jiggle the handle of the toilet after using it? Life would get pretty messy if we didn’t, right?

Before Easter arrives, there’s another place that needs spring cleaning. It’s inside us and our lives. Sometimes, that’s hard to admit. We like to think that we smell pretty good to God. The apostle Paul once thought that too. He worked so hard at being good for God. For a while, it made him feel good about himself. Then he discovered the only thing worth holding onto in life was Jesus. Nothing is as clean and pure and right as he is. Paul said, “I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.”

When you think of your life, what achievements make you proud? What things do you treasure? What relationships do you prize? Make a list of all the things that you are and all that you own and all that you want for the future and ask: Does it help or get in the way of Jesus? And if it does get in the way—get rid of it. Park a garbage truck by the back door of your life. If something doesn’t get you closer to Jesus, toss it in! It’s garbage. It will never be able to make you right with God.

Easter is days away. That makes today the perfect time for spring cleaning inside. It’s time to take out the trash in order to better see and know how good and lovely and right Jesus is. Jesus is the one thing worth keeping!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, I admit there’s a lot of garbage that clutters my heart. Help me get rid of it all so the only thing that remains is you. Everything of this world is nothing. But you are my 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

Who takes out the garbage in your house?
What did Jesus do with the garbage of our sins?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Why does the apostle Paul not want anything to get in the way of knowing Jesus?
If a garbage truck was backed up to the door of your heart, name three things (could be a feeling, a memory, or action) that you would want to toss in and get rid of.

Questions for Middle School and Above

List the top three things you value most in your life. Then ask this question: Do they help or get in the way of your relationship with Jesus?
Explain: For those who follow Jesus, every day is spring cleaning.

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Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

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

A different crown – April 8, 2022

2022/04/08/in Devotions, Military Devotions

A different crown – April 8, 2022

Those who went ahead and those who followed shouted, “Hosanna!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David!” “Hosanna in the highest.”
Mark 11:9-10

Military Devotion – April 8, 2022

Devotion based on Mark 11:9-10

See series: Military Devotions

It was a different type of crowd that streamed into Jerusalem for the Passover that year. It buzzed with excitement. It came with expectations. Many believed they were going to crown a king.

It surely looked that way.

The palm branches and cloaks spread on the road; the chants of “Hosanna”; the sight of Jesus riding into the city on a donkey—all this reminded them of the prophet’s words: “Do not be afraid, O Daughter of Zion; see, your king is coming, seated on a donkey’s colt” (Zechariah 9:9).

The chosen 12 disciples thought for sure they were on their way to his coronation. The mother of two of them quickly submitted their names for choice spots in his government.

For the Jewish leaders, an attempt to crown Jesus as King of the Jews was one of their greatest fears. If successful, they expected he would quickly throw them out of their positions of power just as he had thrown the moneychangers out of the temple. How the Romans would react to this insurrection was another great fear.

Pontius Pilate, governor of Judea, and Herod, king of Galilee, were concerned about the possibility of Jesus being crowned as a king to take their places. They feared the repercussions that would come from the powers back at Rome. The Roman Senate did not tolerate disturbances to the famed “Pax Romana,” the peace which existed between nationalities within the Roman Empire.

Even if the attempt at rebellion by this Jesus was quickly smashed, heads would roll—and not necessarily figuratively.

By the end of this week, many charges would be raised against the rabbi from Nazareth. For the Jewish leaders, the condemning one was that he claimed to be the Son of God. By Jewish law, that called for the death sentence, even though they no longer had the right to carry it out.

For the Romans, it was the claim to be a king that sealed his fate. And Rome did have the authority to carry out a legal execution.

We might ask if the frenzied Palm Sunday crowd realized how dangerous the situation was. If they did, they might have dismissed the danger by pointing out that Jesus of Nazareth had already shown that he was not intimidated by Jewish or Roman authorities. In fact, it seemed he was not afraid of anyone or anything.

If he could drive out demons, cure afflictions with a touch, and raise the dead, what chance did his enemies have to overpower him?

He didn’t need an army to back his claim to the throne. He was in possession of superhuman power.

He showed that supremacy when the detachment of soldiers came to arrest him in Gethsemane. The mere words, “I am he” threw them to the ground, helpless.

What chance did his enemies have to prevent him from taking over as their king?

The very chance that he gave them. He would not resist them. He came to place himself into their hands. That had been the plan all along.

The Jewish leaders, the Romans, and the Palm Sunday crowds misunderstood his objective. They thought he was aiming for a crown of silver or gold.

He had in mind a different crown.

He rode into Jerusalem on that day to receive a crown of thorns.

Thereby, he won for us the crown of life.

Thus, he gained his victory—and so did we.

Prayer:
“All glory, laud and honor to thee Redeemer King.” We shout out, “Crown him with many crowns, the Lamb upon his throne.” Heaven declares him to be “King of kings and Lord of lords.” We agree. “Hosanna in the highest!” 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.

Forget What Is Behind – April 8, 2022

2022/04/08/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:13,14

Forget What Is Behind

Daily Devotion – April 8, 2022

Devotion based on Philippians 3:13,14

See series: Devotions

It seems like, every few years, another movie comes out about time travel. We love these movies because we all wish we could go back and change our past. We all have regrets and guilt from things we’ve done or left undone. The problem is: ruminating on the past keeps us from living the Christian life in the present. It’s like a sprinter who keeps looking back instead of running to the finish line.

The apostle Paul was tempted to look back. In the past, he persecuted Christians even to the point of death. He thought it was God’s will to destroy Christianity. But then God called him not only to believe in Jesus but to be the lead missionary to bring the good news about Jesus to the ends of the earth. With such an important mission, he couldn’t waste time obsessing about his past.

So, he wrote: “But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13,14).

Paul would not let his shame and guilt from the past stop him from doing the ministry in the present. Jesus had overcome his past through his death and resurrection. God wanted him to run the race God had set out for him.

Even if someone invented the time machine, you wouldn’t need it. God has forgiven your past. Now he wants you to focus on what’s ahead. Keep taking hold of the love and acceptance you have in Christ, and live out the calling that God has given you.

Prayer:
Lord God, you have forgiven my past. Lead me to keep my eyes fixed on following you in the future and the heavenly home you are preparing for me. Amen.

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

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

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

God’s Glorious Story – April 7, 2022

2022/04/07/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!
Isaiah 43:18,19

God’s Glorious Story

Daily Devotion – April 7, 2022

Devotion based on Isaiah 43:18,19

See series: Devotions

When you look at Jesus’ ministry, it doesn’t always seem so glorious. Yes, there are those times when he helped the sick, raised the dead, and fed the 5,000. But there are also those times when he was rejected in his hometown, ridiculed by the religious leaders, and finally hung on a cross, naked, and alone.

The Christian church also seems to follow that pattern. Yes, sometimes there are a number of new believers, unity in the church, and service in the community. But there are also times of decline, rejection from the world, and weakness.

But don’t be fooled by looking at a snapshot of God’s story. Our Lord has a history of redeeming, rescuing, and renewing his people. There was a time when God’s people were enslaved in Egypt for over 400 years. But God redeemed, rescued, and renewed his people. Then there was a time when God’s people were exiled into Babylon, but again he redeemed, rescued, and renewed his people.

The Biblical authors in the Old Testament knew that God wasn’t done yet. That’s why Isaiah wrote: “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!”

In other words, hold on to your hats. You haven’t seen nothing yet. God was about to redeem, rescue, and renew his people again. This time God was not going to use plagues or powerful leaders. This time God himself was going to help his people through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

As you look at Jesus Christ and his church, it might seem like all is lost. You might even be tempted to reject the Lord with the rest of the world. But take a long view of history. Look at God’s great work of salvation throughout time. He has always come to the help of his people. And he is planning on doing it again. On the Last Day, he will return in glory to redeem, rescue, renew, and to even resurrect his people.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, sometimes I wonder whether you are still in charge in this broken, wicked, and sinful world. Forgive me for my lack of faith. Open my eyes to your glory. Amen.

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

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

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

Remember You Are My People – Family Devotion – April 6, 2022

2022/04/06/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Isaiah 43:16-21

This is what the LORD says—he who made a way through the sea, a path through the mighty waters, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland … to give drink to my people, my chosen, the people I formed for myself.”
Isaiah 43:16,18-21

Remember You Are My People

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Family Devotion – April 6, 2022

Devotion based on Isaiah 43:16,18-21

See series: Devotions

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

The people looked back in fear as they ran as fast as they could from the enemy army. But how could they outrun galloping horses pulling chariots filled with soldiers. An entire army was rapidly gaining on them. Just a few days before, they experienced their first taste of real freedom after hundreds of years of slavery. All because God stepped in with powerful displays of might. They looked back and thought, “Why is this happening?
Have you ever felt that? Someone hurt you and you asked, “Why do I feel like everyone is against me? Why am I the one always hurting?” Did you ever want to say, “God, don’t tell me I’m yours, show me! Get me out of this mess!”

God knows you. He knows where you are at in life. He knows what you are experiencing and feeling. And he has not forgotten that you belong to him. “Remember, you are my people,” he once said to those people being chased by an enemy army. “Remember the day when I made a road where there was no road right in the middle of a sea? I stacked up walls of water so you could walk safely through on dry ground. Remember how I demolished the entire army that was threatening you so they would never again hurt you.”

Today, God says to you, “Forget the former things, do not dwell on the past. See I am doing a new thing. You are mine.” Remember how he saved you—Jesus a Lamb of sacrifice—“He sighed, he died. He took my sin and wretchedness.” But remember, “He lives and forgives! He gives me his own righteousness” (Christian Worship 525:4). Remember how he demolished Satan and destroyed the power of death and hell. “Because you are my people,” he says, “and you share my name.” God will never let his name be made fun of. He will rescue you, for his sake.

When you get hurt and ask, “Why is this happening to me?” imagine a road that will lead you to safely through to the other side. God chose you for something bigger and better than your problems. Remember, you belong to him!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Lord, there are times I get hurt and feel all alone. The next time it happens, help me remember that you wrote your name on me with permanent marker. I’m yours! Help me wait patiently for you to rescue me. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

Tell your parent(s) about a time when your feelings got hurt. What did they say to make you feel better?
What did God say in today’s devotion that makes you feel better?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

“You are my people,” God says. What has he done to prove that is true for you?
What is the connection between your baptism and today’s devotion?

Questions for Middle School and Above

A lot of kids get their feelings hurt, but don’t handle it well. Think through how you want to handle the hurt the next time it happens to you. What would you do differently?
Think of someone whose feelings you recently hurt. Determine how you can correct that wrong and make it right.

Download and print devotion

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

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

Too Much to Lose – April 6, 2022

2022/04/06/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.
Philippians 3:7

Too Much to Lose

Daily Devotion – April 6, 2022

Devotion based on Philippians 3:7

See series: Devotions

Why did the religious leaders in Jesus’ day reject him as their Savior? The short answer: They had too much to lose, at least from their perspective. If Jesus really was right, then they were wrong about almost everything. They would have to admit they were wrong when they put their ultimate trust in their position in the community. Or when they trusted in how well they followed their own rules. Or when they tried to use their authority to control the people. So instead of admitting they were wrong, they rejected Jesus even to the point of crucifying him. They thought they had just too much to lose.

There was a time when another religious leader named Paul had the same point of view. He saw Jesus as a threat to everything he had gained through his religiosity. But Jesus himself confronted Paul and opened his heart to the truth of God’s love in Christ. And so, instead of trusting in his religious accomplishments, he came to say, “Whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ” (Philippians 3:7).

When Paul met Jesus, he started prizing and pursuing what God treasured. He stopped trusting and boasting about his successes, and he started worshiping and honoring his Savior.

The same option lies before us. We can follow the example of the religious leaders of Jesus’ day. We could trust in our trophies, accomplishments, and religious observances. Or we could consider our record nothing in comparison to knowing Christ and being found in him.

Following Christ might mean that we lose in the eyes of the world. But whatever we might gain in this world is nothing compared to what we already have in Christ.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, help me to trust in you, and you alone. Amen.

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

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

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

Even the Experts Can Get It Wrong – April 5, 2022

2022/04/05/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

The teachers of the law and the chief priests looked for a way to arrest [Jesus] immediately, because they knew he had spoken this parable against them. But they were afraid of the people.
Luke 20:19

Even the Experts Can Get It Wrong

Daily Devotion – April 5, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 20:19

See series: Devotions

One of the most remarkable truths of Jesus’ story is that he was killed by religious professionals. The very people who studied, memorized, and taught the Scriptures, killed the hero of their own Bible. And it’s not because Jesus didn’t try to confront them and lead them to repentance. Even when he told the stories that were meant to get their attention, they still rejected him. The Gospel writer, Luke, says that after Jesus taught them, ‘The teachers of the law and the chief priests looked for a way to arrest him immediately, because they knew he had spoken this parable against them.” (Luke 20:19). Instead of listening to Jesus, they rejected him and wanted to get rid of him.

You see, sometimes, even the experts get it wrong. Sometimes the very people who are supposed to represent God end up rejecting God and cause more harm than good in his church.

The same thing can happen today. Religious leaders who are supposed to represent God might use their power and authority to harm or control their congregation. They might be more of a curse to your church than a blessing. Tragically, when this happens, many people walk away from Christianity altogether.

If you have been harmed by religious professionals, remember that Jesus was also harmed by religious professionals. If you have been burned by the selfishness of some leaders, remember Jesus, the true leader of the church, willing gave up everything to serve and rescue you. If you are considering giving up on God, remember that he has never given up on you.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, lead me to build my faith on you alone, especially when human leaders fail me. Amen.

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

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

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

Learn From Your Mistakes – Family Devotion – April 4, 2022

2022/04/04/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Luke 20:9-19

Jesus looked directly at them and asked, “Then what is the meaning of that which is written: “‘The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone’? Everyone who falls on that stone will be broken to pieces; anyone on whom it falls will be crushed.”
Luke 20:17-18

Learn From Your Mistakes

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Family Devotion – April 4, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 20:17-18

See series: Devotions

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

Emma rolled her eyes. Her older teenage sister Olivia was crying… again. “What’s all the commotion about?” Grandma asked as she walked in. In between heaves and blowing her nose, pieces of Olivia’s story came out: a boyfriend, a break-up, for the third time. Emma had heard it all before. “Why can’t my sister learn that her Mr. Right is really Mr. Wrong?” she impatiently muttered. “But I love him! I can change him,” Olivia sobbed. Finally, her grandma replied in a calm voice, “Sweetie, I’m going to share something that was once said to me: ‘Don’t tear your pants on the same nail twice.’ Do you know what that means?” Olivia shook her head as Emma listened too. “It’s a way of saying: learn from your mistakes,” Grandma said.

How about you? Do you learn from your mistakes? Before you answer, listen to Jesus tell a story about a man who worked hard to build a winery filled with prize-winning grapes. Then he handed it over to some farmers who knew the grape business and agreed to bring him his fair share of the fruit. But they didn’t. Even after his repeated attempts, they refused to listen. What a huge mistake!

It’s really a story about a God who spared no expense to plant and protect us as his prized people. He didn’t even spare his own Son to save us. He gave his all! He continues to give us ways to express our thanks to him, like loving God and each other more than anything else in the world.

Don’t make the mistake that others have made. They are like builders who reject Jesus as the cornerstone and toss him aside like a worthless brick. Sadly, some people forget their desperate need for Jesus. To do so is to tear your pants on the same nail… again and again.

Jesus, the one we too have treated shamefully… is it too late to learn from our mistakes? No! Jesus tells today’s story one last time for us to see yet again the incredibly patient heart of God and his own undying love. During Lent, Jesus may look like a common stone. He was crushed under the weight of all our mistakes but did not crumble. He proves to be the most important stone for a magnificent building in which you are safe. It’s his Church, and he wants you inside with him!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, help us to learn a lesson from today’s story. Thank you for not crushing us when we make mistakes. Build our faith on you and keep us safe as part of your Church. 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

Today’s devotion shows how important it is to learn from mistakes.

Talk with your parent(s) about a mistake they gently pointed out to you. What was it?
What did they want you to learn from your mistake?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

In today’s Bible story, the man who built the winery and rented it out sent messengers to collect his share of the fruit.

What is meant by “fruit”? Then describe at least one fruit in your life that shows your thanks.
Who are some of the messengers God sends today to get our attention and encourage us to give him fruits of thanks?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Emma and Olivia’s grandmother said, “Don’t tear your pants on the same nail twice.”

Recall what she meant by it. Then identify a “nail” in your life on which you keep getting hung up on.
Discuss the lesson you want to learn so as not to repeat it.

Download and print devotion

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

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

Press On, My Friends – Week of April 4, 2022

2022/04/04/in Devotions, ECME Devotions

Press On, My Friends – Week of April 4, 2022

Not that I have already obtained all this or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:12-14

ECME Devotion April 4, 2022

See series: ECME Devotions

You’re outside on a lovely spring day. The children are playing happily on the slide, the swings, in the grass, some are playing with balls. What an idyllic day. And then, out of the corner of your eye you see it. She’s running with a full belly laugh alongside her two dearest friends. As she runs, she turns to see how close they are. In that split second, you see what she doesn’t see—another child about to cross her path. Fortunately, you are close enough to intervene just in time. Crisis averted this time.

Aren’t we too often, just like this little one? We run along each day from one task to the next. We have lessons to create, prep work to do, meetings to attend, meals to prepare, rooms to clean, reports to write, and on and on. Some days are like the joyful play of the children we serve. And some days, have bumps and potholes and challenges that can throw off that joy. We can so easily become discouraged, frustrated, and overwhelmed with guilt and disappointment. Our disappointment is with others or ourselves. We struggle with the guilt of thinking we haven’t done enough, or haven’t done it well enough, or will never seem to conquer a challenge.

Today’s verses can remind us that our life is like a journey or a race. The runner who focuses ahead, who keeps their eyes on the finish line seems less affected by the cheering, the commotion, and the distraction of others around them. They keep their eye on the prize that could be theirs. They see the potholes and are able to get around them. They face the challenges with every effort they have. Runners learn quickly that turning your head to check out the runners behind them will slow them down and can even take them off course. Once they refocus on the finish line, they are more likely to do well.

As we go through each day, we too, can be tempted to keep looking back at past sins, past mistakes, past failures, even knowing that these are all forgiven by God’s amazing grace. Yes, we can learn from the past, but over focusing on the past can hinder our growing in Christ and living for him. As God’s dear child, we strive to live lives of serving him and reflecting his grace in all we do. I don’t know about you, but I struggle every day with a balance of striving for perfection and recognizing my inability to achieve this. Today’s verses remind us to keep our eyes looking straight ahead confident in the gift of God’s amazing grace and eternal life with him as coheirs of heaven.

My dear colleagues, press on in faith. Keep your eyes on the prize, on the gift of God’s grace and eternal life. Heaven is ours. Our troubles here on earth are temporary but even during the challenges, we can look to the Word and be reminded that heaven is already ours. You are God’s dear child. Keep your eyes focused on what’s ahead and run through life with faith and joy.

Prayer

Dear Jesus, I am so easily distracted. Forgive me when I become complacent or over-confident in my faith. Keep me eager to be in the Word each day and spending time talking to you in prayer. Help me to be a reflection of your grace in all I do. Thank you for the prize-the gift of heaven with you. Amen.

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

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

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

WELS CENTER FOR MISSION AND MINISTRY

Hidden Victory

Living Victoriously

Read: Luke 24:1-12

How’s Your Memory?

Closing Prayer:

Look Up! – Week of April 18, 2022

ECME Devotion April 18, 2022

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The Victorious Life

No Nonsense

Nothing More Needs to Be Said

Read: John 19:17-30

Finally, It’s Finished.

Closing Prayer:

If no Easter – April 15, 2022

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His Punishment, Our Peace

His Food, Our Fill

Read: Luke 22:7-20

A Meal Worth Remembering

Closing Prayer:

Just the Gentle Savior We Need

Humble Jesus Is My Lord

Humbled. Exalted. – Week of April 11, 2022

ECME Devotion April 11, 2022

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Read: Luke 19:28-40

Jesus Knows How to Make an Entrance

Closing Prayer:

He Became Nothing for You

Reason to Keep Going

Forget What Is Behind You

Read: Philippians 3:4b-14

It’s Time to Take Out the Trash

Closing Prayer:

A different crown – April 8, 2022

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Forget What Is Behind

God’s Glorious Story

Read: Isaiah 43:16-21

Remember You Are My People

Closing Prayer:

Too Much to Lose

Even the Experts Can Get It Wrong

Read: Luke 20:9-19

Learn From Your Mistakes

Closing Prayer:

Press On, My Friends – Week of April 4, 2022

ECME Devotion April 4, 2022

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