Devotions

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

If I’m being honest, this has been a difficult devotion to write. It is almost like I feel hypocritical encouraging you all to love like Jesus does, when I struggle to do it myself. But knowing I, like you, am a sinner/saint, I can struggle and still encourage at the same time. We all better be able to do that because the pressure to love perfectly is not on us. It was taken off our shoulders when Jesus hung on that cross. We will fall short. We will fail. But forgiven in Christ we can always ask God for a heart that beats first for him and secondly, for others.

Children have a good sense of how to love.

“But he took my blocks!”, “She skipped me in line!”, “I had that first!” and so on and so on.

Isn’t it funny how little kids can be mad one second and best friends the next? How impressive is that kind of quick forgiveness? You see it in the classroom all the time. Friends can be mad at each other during carpet time, but then attached at the hip once they get out on the playground.

When does that change? When does that become so hard? To freely forgive. I do not know about you, but I struggle with forgiveness sometimes. I struggle to freely forgive those who hurt me or make my life hard. And yet, “…since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.”

How can we not? How can we not show that kind of love to one another?

He provides. He is faithful. Honest. Loving. Merciful. True. Caring. Kind.

Wouldn’t it be amazing to perfectly be faithful, honest, loving, merciful, true, caring, kind? What if the world was like that? What if we, as Christians, led the way? All the time? What a beautiful world that would be.

It seems like such a simple constant, yet it might just be one of the hardest things to do.

I am going to encourage you to stay in the Word. When loving others becomes hard, dive deep in the Word and be reminded of his love for you. Shift the focus off your shortcomings and instead, place it all on his amazing love.

Open the Old Testament and be reminded of his faithfulness to His people.

Open the New Testament and be in awe of his love to the ones who were loved the least.

He is the perfect example. He has an unbroken track record of his love for you. A love that forgives us freely so we too can love.

A love like that. How can we not?

Prayer:
Perfect Savior, I am so grateful for your forgiving love and your example. Thank you for showing me how to love in every situation. Help me to be in your Word, daily, so that I am reminded and encouraged of how to love others. Amen.

A Question to Consider:
Who is someone that you could show love to today? Make a plan and show them that you care.

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

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

Love as Jesus Loved Us – Family Devotion – May 10, 2021

2021/05/10/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: John 15:9-17

My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.
John 15:12-13

Love as Jesus Loved Us

Devotion based on John 15:12-13

See series: Devotions

Family Devotion – May 10, 2021

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

Start this devotion with an exercise. Stand up, stretch your arms wide, and say, “Jesus loves me this much!” Your arms are indicating a large amount of love, as far as you can reach, fingertip to fingertip. You are also acting out what Jesus looked like when he hung on the cross, giving his life for you, for all people.

Let’s sit down now and think about this.

Most of us would agree that giving up your life for someone is the greatest act of love. We hear stories of people who risk their lives for others. A firefighter who runs into a burning building. A nurse who cares for people during a pandemic. A soldier who goes to war. We call these people brave, and we appreciate them. Then there are those of us who have less daring lives: students, office workers, mechanics, waitresses, teachers, and other important but more “everyday” roles.

In today’s word of God, Jesus said, “Love as I have loved you.” But what does that look like? What if our lives don’t involve anything as grand as giving up life for someone else?

If we think our everyday actions aren’t important, that is Satan whispering a lie to us. He tries to convince us that “Love as Jesus loved” is something we say, not something we can actually do.

Is that true?

Stand up once again and stretch out your arms as wide as you can reach. As you look at the members of your family in this pose, what do you observe?

Your arms are wide open and ready to embrace someone.
Your heart is wide open and ready to receive love and give love.
Your hands are not clenched but open and ready to serve.

This is the pose Jesus assumed for us—arms out, exposed to insults hurled at him yet open to receive all our sins. Jesus surrendered himself to that position because he loved us. Now that love of God that flowed through him gushes out to each of us!

What does it mean to love as Jesus loved? Give up stubborn poses. Open your arms wide for those around you. Offer your hands in service to others—wherever God has placed you. What you do—what Jesus does through you—is important!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, open my heart wide so your grace and forgiveness can flow into my heart. Give me courage to live a life of love, letting all of your grace and love flow through me to others. 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

Finish this sentence: Jesus loved me so much that he…
Give two ways you can show your love to two people in your family.

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Besides his life, recall two other things Jesus gave up when he agreed to be our Savior from sin.
Give an example of a way you can give up something important to show love for someone else.

Questions for Middle School and Above

Share an example of someone you admire who shows love to others the way Jesus showed love to us. How is that person a good role model?
How can our acts of love and service to others lead to a conversation about Jesus’ love for us?

Hymn: CW 488:1,3 – Savior, Thy Dying Love

Savior, Thy dying love
Thou gavest me,
Nor should I aught withhold,
Dear Lord, from Thee:
In love my soul would bow,
My heart fulfill its vow,
Some off’ring bring Thee now,
Something for Thee.

Give me a faithful heart,
Likeness to Thee,
That each departing day
Henceforth may see
Some work of love begun,
Some deed of kindness done,
Some wand’rer sought and won,
Something for Thee.

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

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

Transformed – teen devotion – May 9, 2021

2021/05/09/in Teen Devotions

The May series is for the times we may hit rock bottom as we experience seasons of fear and weariness, despair and depression, pain and loss … all of them due to sin. Yet God never leaves or abandons us. He pursues and seeks us in our dark moments.

As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?”

“Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.
John 9:1-3

Rock Bottom … Why Them?

We live in a world that tries to convince us, “You get what you deserve.” Teachers will say it to students. Coaches will yell it at players. Bosses will try to convince employees of the same. You can understand the statement in some aspects of life. But not when it comes to sin and grace.

Jesus was constantly teaching lessons that his disciples—and we—need to learn well in our lives as Christians on earth. Our reading today serves as an opportunity to do just that. Seeing a blind man, the disciples mistakenly thought that there must have been a reason in either his life or in the lives of his family that caused this blindness to befall him. We can easily fall into the same trap, thinking to ourselves, “You get what you deserve.”

Thank our gracious God that we don’t. Jesus would go on to heal the blind man from his affliction, not because he deserved it, but because of Christ’s love for him. That’s how he treats us in life! We know who we are. We know how we’ve failed God and shown ourselves to be unworthy of his love. We know that if it’s true that “You get what you deserve,” we are in a world of trouble. Faith in Jesus, though, understands and cherishes that we don’t get what we deserve. Instead, we are recipients of God’s love—love revealed to us in his Son Jesus today, tomorrow, and for all eternity. Everything that happens in life is “so that the works of God might be displayed” (v. 3). What a blessing!

Prayer: Almighty God, we are not the only people who struggle in life. All have sinned against you and need the comfort that you alone can give. Be with all who are struggling, dear Lord. Help me be a friend to those around me and someone others feel they can come to for help. All to give you glory. All for your Son’s sake. 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.

A mother’s pain – May 9, 2021

2021/05/09/in Devotions, Military Devotions

A mother’s pain – May 9, 2021

Through the window peered Sisera’s mother; behind the lattice she cried out, “Why is his chariot so long in coming? Why is the clatter of his chariots delayed?”
Judges 5:28

Military Devotion – May 9, 2021

Devotion based on Judges 5:28

See series: Military Devotions

“Adam named his wife Eve, because she would become the mother of all the living” (Genesis 2:30). It was a special name for a special person.

Without her, the human race would have consisted of a grand total of one. She was essential to God’s perfect plan of creation.

God knew what he was doing when he made women the bearers of children. He bestowed a special blessing upon the human race when he established a role that set women apart from men.

A father cannot replace a mother, so matter how hard he tries—no matter how much modern thinking tries to blur the lines between the two.

Changes in technology may have changed the opportunities for women to have a productive life outside of the home. But they can never change the special place women have in the home.

A mother sees her children with more than her eyes. She watches with her heart.

Sometimes, that heart breaks with pain.

Some might say that Sisera was a person only his mother could love. We surely would not look upon him favorably, nor did the Israelites of his day.

Sisera was a Canaanite army commander. His 900 iron chariots struck terror into the hearts of God’s people. It was at a time marked by confusion and dismay. The refrain in the book of Judges is: “In those days there was no king in Israel, but every man did that which was right in his own eyes” (Judges 17:6). No wonder there was confusion and dismay.

It was left to a woman to be the military leader of Israel. Her name was Deborah. She and another woman by the name of Jael caused the pain in the heart of Sisera’s mother.

As thousands of mothers before her must have done, and thousands upon thousands of mothers have done since then, she was anxiously waiting for her son to return from war.

She waited in vain.

The writer of the book of Judges pictures the scene for us as she waited. She looks through the window—but does not see him. She waits to hear the clatter of his returning chariot—but does not hear it.

She never will.

Her son lies lifeless among the enemy. His army was being defeated. He ran for his life. He found a woman who offered to hide him in safety.

Then, she drove a peg through his temple while he was sleeping (Judges 4:17ff).

His mother must have felt the peg was driven through her heart.

The Lord God told rebellious Eve that one consequence of sin would be the pain of childbirth. It remains to this day.

The Lord God told faithful Mary that her son would be the Savior of the world. It was a message of joy that stands to this day.

There has never been a child that did not bring pain to its mother.

There is no person, except Jesus, who does not need to regret a mother’s pain.

There is no person, except Jesus, who does not need to request forgiveness for causing her pain.

There is no person, because of Jesus, the Son of a woman, who does not have those sins paid for.

That should fill any mother’s heart with joy.

Mother’s Day is a prime time to thank our God for mothers—especially our own.

Is it not?

Prayer: Creator of all and Rescuer of mankind, remind me of the blessings you have given to me through my mother. Lead me to honor you by honoring her. 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.

Reflecting God’s Love – Family Devotion – May 7, 2021

2021/05/07/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: 1 John 3:18-24

Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth…. This is his command, to believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another as he commanded us.
1 John 3:18,23

Reflecting God’s Love

Devotion based on 1 John 3:18,23

See series: Devotions

Family Devotion – May 7, 2021

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

What do you think of when you hear the word “love”? Maybe you think of Valentine’s Day, when red, pink, and white chocolates show up in the stores; you hand out cards and candy hearts to your friends; and grown-ups give each other flowers, say “I love you,” and kiss.

None of those are bad thoughts, but they’re not what the apostle John means by love. The Greek word used for “love” in today’s reading is a special word: agape (ah-gah-pay). Agape isn’t something that you say to someone; it isn’t a feeling that can change from day to day. Agape is an action word. It’s not just saying, “I love you,” but also showing someone how much you love them. It’s the things you do rather than just the words you say.

Agape love shows up in one of the most famous passages in the Bible—John 3:16: “God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son.” God is the best example of agape love that exists. From the very beginning of our lives, he knew how totally and completely unlovable we are. But instead of hating us , God loved us. Then he showed how much he loved us by sending Jesus to us. There is no sin you commit that Jesus did not die to save you from. There is no guilt that you bear that Jesus’ cross does not relieve.

There’s an important connection between the love that God showed for us in sending his Son and the love that we should show to others. We don’t love others on our own. We can’t love others on our own. But because of the great love God showed for us, we respond in love—both love for God and love for those around us.

The next time you say “I love you” to your mom and dad, don’t forget about how you show your love for them. Think about God’s agape love and how you love others because God loved you. Think about love as an action, not just a feeling. What a privilege to be able to show God’s love to those around you!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for loving me enough to send your Son to save me from my sins. Help me to share this love with others not only through my words but also through my actions. 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

Give one way you can you tell that your mom or dad love you.
In what way did God show his love for us?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Can we show love to others on our own? Why or why not?
Give two specific ways you can act to show love to those around you.

Questions for Middle School and Above

If God so loved the world, why isn’t everyone going to heaven?
When we don’t act in ways that show love, how do we know that God still loves us?

Hymn: CW 385:1,2 – Chief of Sinners Though I Be

Chief of sinners though I be,
Jesus shed his blood for me,
Died that I might live on high,
Lives that I might never die.
As the branch is to the vine,
I am his and he is mine!

Oh, the height of Jesus’ love,
Higher than the heav’ns above,
Deeper than the depths of sea,
Lasting as eternity,
Love that found me—wondrous thought!—
Found me when I sought him not.

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

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

How Can You Help? – Family Devotion – May 5, 2021

2021/05/05/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Acts 16:11-15

The Lord opened [Lydia’s] heart to respond to Paul’s message. When she and the members of her household were baptized, she invited us to her home. “If you consider me a believer in the Lord,” she said, “come and stay at my house.” And she persuaded us.
Acts 16:14-15

How Can You Help?

Devotion based on Acts 16:14-15

See series: Devotions

Family Devotion – May 5, 2021

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

Not many people knew about all the things that Miss Davis did at church. Setting up for communion, making the coffee for Bible study, cleaning up after special events—she did lots of little stuff behind the scenes that most people didn’t know about. That was fine with her; Miss Davis didn’t help out in order to be thanked or recognized. She just saw things that needed to be done and took care of doing them. She looked for ways she could help.

In today’s reading, we meet someone similar: Lydia. She listened to the preaching and teaching of the apostle Paul. The Holy Spirit opened Lydia’s heart. She believed in Jesus as her Savior. She was baptized, along with everybody in her house. Afterwards, she invited Paul and his friends to come and stay at her house. She saw a way that she could help Paul by providing for his needs while he was staying in her hometown of Philippi. Why? Because Lydia was so thankful for the good news of salvation.

The Holy Spirit has also brought us to faith—he has changed our lives—and now we respond in the same way as Lydia. We look for ways to help our pastors and teachers, to do the little things that make it easier for them to preach and teach. Why? Because Jesus showed great love for us, and we want to reflect that love by serving those called by God to be our spiritual leaders.

Sometimes it can be hard to find ways to serve, especially when there are so many other people who are older or who seem better at helping than you are. Sometimes you might feel discouraged or unappreciated. Sometimes there might be so much work to do and so little reward for doing it. Is it really worth trying to help, especially if nobody notices?

Yes! Even if nobody realizes how you help, God still sees it. He treasures the little ways that you help your pastors and teachers. He views your good works as a beautiful response, as a way of saying thank you for being brought to faith and made a member of God’s family. One day, he will say “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21) and invite you to share in his happiness. That makes all your helping worthwhile!

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, help us always to look for ways to help our pastors and teachers. Even if no one sees how we help, remind us that you see and appreciate all we do for those around us. 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 did Lydia do after she came to faith?
How did Lydia help Paul and his friends?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Think of two ways you can help your pastor(s) and teachers.
What should you do if no one notices or appreciates your help?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Read Ephesians 2:10. What does Paul mean when he says God prepared good works in advance for us to do?
If you don’t look for ways to help, if you don’t do good works, does that mean you’re not really a Christian? Explain.

Hymn: CW 385:1,4-5 – Chief of Sinners Though I Be

Chief of sinners though I be,
Jesus shed his blood for me,
Died that I might live on high,
Lives that I might never die.
As the branch is to the vine,
I am his and he is mine!

Chief of sinners though I be,
Christ is all in all to me.
All my wants to him are known;
All my sorrows are his own.
Safe with him in earthly strife,
I await the heav’nly life.

Strengthen me, O gracious Lord,
By your Spirit and your word.
When my wayward heart would stray,
Keep me in the narrow way;
Grace in time of need supply
While I live and when I die.

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

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

Are You a Growing Branch? – Family Devotion – May 3, 2021

2021/05/03/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: John 15:1-8

I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned.
John 15:5,6

Are You a Growing Branch?

Devotion based on John 15:5,6

See series: Devotions

Family Devotion – May 3, 2021

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

Spring is here! It’s a season where plants poke through the soil, and tree branches sprout leaves… at least, most tree branches. Sometimes tree branches snap off and end up on the ground. The rest of the tree is growing new green leaves, but that dead branch isn’t connected to the tree anymore. It isn’t growing like rest of the tree.

Throughout the book of John, Jesus uses lots of word pictures to describe himself and his relationship with those who believe in him. In today’s reading, Jesus calls himself the vine and his followers the branches. Just like a tree helps its branches grow green leaves, so too Jesus helps his followers—us!—grow in our faith. And just like a branch on the ground is dead because it’s not connected to the tree, so too our faith will suffer and eventually die if we don’t stay connected to Jesus.

That can be a scary thought! Do you ever worry whether you’re still connected to Jesus, still a growing branch and not a dead branch? Sure, you go to church and listen to God’s Word. But is that really enough? There are times when you fight with your friends, when you talk back to your parents, when you are angry at everybody. Do these times mean you are in danger of becoming disconnected from Jesus? Are you close to becoming a dry, dead branch?

There’s a small word in today’s reading that can help you not worry about being strong enough to stay connected to Jesus. Did you catch it? Jesus says to “remain” in him. He doesn’t say “get connected to me” or “find a way to make your connection with me stronger.” Instead, he says “remain in me.” Jesus connected you to him like a branch is connected to a tree. Maybe you came to faith at your baptism, or maybe it was when you were a little older. Whenever it was, Jesus promised to remain in you so you can believe in him.

Yes, there are times when you will struggle with a certain sin, when you feel like you’re not doing anything right, when your faith doesn’t feel strong, but like a weak branch. In those moments, remember the strength of the vine—of your Savior, Jesus—and know that he’s the one keeping you connected to him. What a reassuring thought!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for doing everything needed to connect us to you. When we doubt or feel weak, remind us that our strength comes from you: the vine, the one who provides everything we need to stay strong and grow spiritually. 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 does Jesus call himself in today’s reading? What does he call us?
Why can’t branches on the ground grow leaves or fruit?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Why is the word “remain” so important in today’s reading?
How can you be sure that you’re a growing branch and not a dead branch?

Questions for Middle School and Above

What are some specific ways you can show that you’re growing, that you’re bearing fruit?
What could you say to help comfort someone who is worried about whether they’re producing enough spiritual fruit?

Hymn: CW 385:1,3 – Chief of Sinners Though I Be

Chief of sinners though I be,
Jesus shed his blood for me,
Died that I might live on high,
Lives that I might never die.
As the branch is to the vine,
I am his and he is mine!

Only Jesus can impart
Comfort to a wounded heart;
Peace that flows from sin forgiv’n,
Joy that lifts the soul to heav’n,
Faith and hope to walk with God
In the way that Enoch trod.

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

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

Remain – Week of May 3, 2021

2021/05/03/in Devotions, ECME Devotions

Remain – Week of May 3, 2021

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.”

John 15:5-8

ECME Devotion May 3, 2021

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

Remain is a powerful word. It’s a strong word. Sure, we can open our Bible from time to time, say a quick prayer, but imagine the power that comes with remaining in God.

What are some tangible ways that you can remain in him? Well, being in his Word daily is a great way to start. When you remain in his Word, you have all the promises of your most faithful Friend at your fingertips. Worried? There is a passage for that. Overwhelmed? There is a passage for that, too. Joyful? You guessed it…a passage.

Praying to God is a great way to remain in him. Bringing the big stuff to him, but the little stuff too. Nothing is too small to bring to our Savior. You teach that to your students. Please, know that you never grow out of that truth.

Worshiping is a wonderful way to remain in him. Singing praises. Confessing your sins and receiving the power of forgiveness.
There is great power in remaining in God.

What is the alternative? In verse 5 of our reading, it says, “apart from me you can do nothing”. Nothing. There is no power in “nothing”.

So, remain. Easy, right? If only.

I don’t know about you, but often, my priorities in life don’t make it easy for me to remain in God. I plan to open my Bible every day, but if I am being honest, sometimes it can be days that go by without my eyes reading a verse.

Sometimes, my first line of defense when things are going wrong is to call a friend. I talk about my problems and then keep talking about them. And then right when I think I am done, I talk about them just a little bit more. Friends are a blessing—one of the greatest blessings in this little thing called “life”. But remaining in my Best Friend, is the best remedy for a hard day, rough spot, long year. Bringing all our troubles to him is where we can find true relief.
When we remain in God, we are connected to the Lifeline. Connected. Another powerful word.

You can remain in the One who is greater than all the rest. You can be connected to the One who has your best interest in mind.
You have the power to remain. You get the power from him, our heavenly Father. Praise God!

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, I am sorry for the times that I put you on the backburner. Help me remain in you by daily being in your Word, calling on your name in the good times and bad, and worshiping you on a regular basis. Thank you for never putting me on the backburner. Thank you for your grace and mercy. Please help my students remain in you and let their light shine to others. Amen.

A Question to Consider:
Can you identify a way that you struggle to remain in God? Work on that specific struggle this week. Make a game plan, write it down, and ask God to help you carry it through.

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

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

Yesterday’s Shadow – May 2, 2021

2021/05/02/in Devotions, Military Devotions

Yesterday’s Shadow – May 2, 2021

Come, O house of Jacob, let us walk in the light of the LORD.
Isaiah 2:5

Military Devotion – May 2, 2021

Devotion based on Isaiah 2:5

See series: Military Devotions

Too often, I find myself walking in yesterday’s shadow.

“God is light,” we are told, “and in him there is no darkness at all.”

Why, then, do I so often find myself living in a shadow?

I know what causes the shadow. The darkness comes when I step off from God’s path. Doubt, dread, and shame dim the brightness that comes from the Holy One.

So does fear.

Sometimes, I find fear when I find myself walking near the valley of the shadow of death. I should fear no evil. But I do.

I find I cannot leave yesterday behind. Its shadow follows me into the night. It is there when I awake to the new day.

I cannot just forget the past and move on. I feel I must fix the past. But I cannot undo what has been done. I cannot go back in time and make things right. I cannot turn darkness into day.

The new day may not dawn as dark as the old. But if even a shadow of it remains, my soul feels the weight.

King David knew what that was like, and he knew who was applying the pressure. He wrote: “For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer” (Psalm 32:4).

So, God had applied pressure upon David. Is God the one who causes the darkness? Is he the one who removes my joy? Is this how he punishes me?

No.

He comes to scatter the darkness. He comes to heal, not to hurt.

But healing can be painful.

King David had lived for a long time in a misery of his own making. Adultery and murder had cast long shadows. No matter if his people did not know of his crimes, he knew, and he staggered under the weight of the guilt.

Each yesterday handed off the guilt to the next day. Like the darkness at noon on Good Friday, the sunshine of God’s favor was being blotted out.

Until…

Until he admitted his guilt and turned to God for forgiveness. He wrote, “I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the LORD“—and you forgave the guilt of my sin” (Psalm 32:5).

He added this prayer: “Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me” (Psalm 51:12).

With guilt gone, there is no barrier to joy.

The psalmist declares: “The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?” (Psalm 27:1)

The answer is, No one! Nothing!

The shadow of doubt and fear must fade in the light of God’s presence.

The path of the child of God is clear now. It is written, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path” (Psalm 119:105).

Yesterday’s shadows must always give way to the light of the Lord.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, show us the path of light and life. Call us back when we stumble off of your path. Let us live in the light of your presence. 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.

Transformed – teen devotion – May 2, 2021

2021/05/02/in Teen Devotions

The May series is for the times we may hit rock bottom as we experience seasons of fear and weariness, despair and depression, pain and loss … all of them due to sin. Yet God never leaves or abandons us. He pursues and seeks us in our dark moments.

Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure
and have washed my hands in innocence.
All day long I have been afflicted,
and every morning brings new punishments.

Yet I am always with you;
you hold me by my right hand.
You guide me with your counsel,
and afterward you will take me into glory.
Whom have I in heaven but you?
And earth has nothing I desire besides you.
My flesh and my heart may fail,
but God is the strength of my heart
and my portion forever.

Psalm 73:13-14, 23-26

Rock Bottom … Why Me?

It’s really easy to have a pity party for oneself. Someone else’s family has a more comfortable lifestyle. A classmate more easily understands physics. We see those who seem to have a brighter future than we see for ourselves. Pity parties are something that affect all of us from time to time. They allow us to wallow in our misery and ask out loud “Why me?” when things go wrong.

The writer of Psalm 73 dealt with the same thing. He was struggling. With what? We don’t know exactly, but we do know we can relate. He speaks for all of us who have lamented before, “All day long I have been afflicted, and every morning brings new punishments” (v. 14). Whether we ask God “Why me?” from self-pity or sincere concern, it’s a question our sinful selves need to have answered if we are to have any joy and peace in life.

Our gracious God does just that. Think about how much he loves us. He sent his one and only Son to this earth to die as a substitute for our sin. He turned his back on Jesus so that he might never do the same to us. He’s given us his holy Word as guide, leading us forward in his most holy name. The writer of Psalm 73 asked “Why me?” and found his answer not by looking deep within himself, but looking to his gracious God who was was always with him—in times of trouble, in times of celebration, and for all eternity. We join with the psalmist today in praising this same God, proclaiming “Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand” (v. 23).

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for loving me. I never deserve and don’t always appreciate this love, but you freely and fully shower me with your blessings each and every day of life. Guide me to always love as you have loved me. In your name I pray this and all things. 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.

Only Working on Sunday Mornings? – Family Devotion – April 30, 2021

2021/04/30/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: 1 Peter 5:1-4

Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be.
1 Peter 5:2

Only Working on Sunday Mornings?

Devotion based on 1 Peter 5:2

See series: Devotions

Family Devotion – April 30, 2021

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

Pastors only work on Sundays, right? Often, that’s when we see him—when he’s up in the front of church preaching and leading worship. We may not see him much during the rest of the week. What else could he possibly be doing with his time? It doesn’t take that long to write a sermon, does it?

Whether you see it or not, your pastor is doing so much more than “just” preaching on Sunday mornings. He’s talking with and taking communion to people who are stuck at home and can’t come to church. He’s sitting next to people in hospital beds and comforting them and their family members. He’s praying for the members of his church and praying that God would give him the strength and the wisdom to serve them in the best way he possibly can. He’s there for his members when they need him, sometimes at night or on the weekend when his workday should be over and done.

Okay, so pastors work more than “just” on Sunday mornings. What’s the point? It isn’t to make you feel sorry for your pastor or emphasize how hard he works. After all, your parents work hard too. It’s to remind you that your pastor faithfully serves as shepherd of your congregation—in fact, the word “pastor” literally means “shepherd.” God called him to be your shepherd. It also is reminder that you have a calling too: a calling to be a faithful sheep.

How can you be a faithful sheep to your pastor? There are lots of ways: come to church regularly, listen to and learn from what he teaches and preaches, talk to him and tell him what you particularly liked from his sermon or what part of it really hit home to you. Encourage your pastor as he seeks to serve his flock and strives to live up to the responsibility God has given him.

Most importantly, pray for your pastor. Pray that God would give him wisdom to proclaim the Scriptures in their truth and purity. Pray that God would give him strength to resist the devil and stand firm in the faith. Pray that God would give him the comfort to know that his labor in the Lord is not in vain. Pray for him—and then share with him that you’re praying for him. He’ll appreciate it more than you’ll ever know!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, you have blessed me with a faithful pastor(s). Help me to be a faithful sheep and encourage my pastor as he guides and feeds me with the truths of your Word. 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 does the word “pastor” mean?
What else does your pastor do besides preach on Sunday mornings?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

What is something you could tell your pastor to encourage him?
What is a prayer you could say for your pastor?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Why is it important for you to encourage your pastor? Isn’t coming to church encouragement enough?
Since your pastor is a shepherd and you are part of his flock, he cares for and watches over you. What are some specific ways he does this?

Hymn: CW 375:1,5-6 – The King of Love My Shepherd Is

The King of love my shepherd is,
Whose goodness fails me never;
I nothing lack if I am his,
And he is mine forever.

You spread a table in my sight,
A banquet here bestowing;
Your oil of welcome, my delight;
My cup is overflowing!

And so through all the length of days
Your goodness fails me never.
Good Shepherd, may I sing your praise
Within your house forever!

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

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

Remember What Your Shepherds Have Taught You – Family Devotion – April 28, 2021

2021/04/28/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Acts 20:28-32

So be on your guard! Remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears. Now I commit you to God, and to the word of his grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.
Acts 20:31-32

Remember What Your Shepherds Have Taught You

Devotion based on Acts 20:31-32

See series: Devotions

Family Devotion – April 28, 2021

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

It was the last day of school, and it was time for Miss Schroeder to say goodbye to her students. She knew all of her students very well. She had taught some of them for several years. Others she had known since they were born. The last day of school was always happy. Even if she didn’t have her students in class again, she knew she’d still see them at school or in the community.

This year was different though. It was Miss Schroeder’s last day at the school. She would be moving far away in just a couple of weeks and didn’t know if she’d ever see any of her students again. In the last couple of minutes before school let out, she reminded her students of the lessons she’d taught them and encouraged them to not forget those things.

In today’s Word of God, the apostle Paul was saying goodbye to a church where he had spent three years teaching and preaching. He knew and loved these people like they were his own family. He was sad because he knew he would never see them again.

Paul also knew that life would be hard for them. They would have to deal with false teachers and would be tempted to turn away from the truth that they had learned. So Paul committed them to God’s care. He trusted that God would take care of them. He prayed that they would remember what he had taught them. Even though Paul wouldn’t see them in person, his teaching would live on. They would be able to stand up against the false teachers—as long as they remembered what they had been taught.

All of us also have pastors and teachers in our lives who have taught us about God. They love and care for us, pray for us, and commit us to God’s care. And because they’ve been so faithful in teaching us the truths of God’s Word, we naturally want to remember what they’ve taught us and live according to these truths.

So the next time you’re tempted to stop listening because it seems like your pastor or teacher is telling you something you’ve heard a thousand times before, don’t! Remember that they are living out their calling of preaching and teaching God’s Word. Then, live out what you’ve learned from them! Act in a way that reflects what they’ve taught you. That’s the best thank you that you could ever give them!

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank you for all the faithful pastors and teachers you have placed in our lives. Help us to always remember what they have taught us and live according to these teachings. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

Why was Paul so sad to say goodbye?
Discuss a way you can show appreciation to your pastor(s) and teacher this week.

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Think of three things you’ve learned about God from your pastor(s) and teachers.
Discuss one way you can better remember what you’ve learned.

Questions for Middle School and Above

Paul warned about “savage wolves” that hurt our faith. What wolf are you facing in your life today?
How does remembering what you’ve learned and have been taught help you to fight off these savage wolves?

Hymn: CW 375:1,4 – The King of Love My Shepherd Is

The King of love my shepherd is,
Whose goodness fails me never;
I nothing lack if I am his,
And he is mine forever.

In death’s dark vale I fear no ill
With you, dear Lord, beside me;
Your rod and staff my comfort still,
Your cross before to guide me.

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

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

My Shepherd Knows Me – Week of April 26, 2021

2021/04/26/in Devotions, ECME Devotions

My Shepherd Knows Me – Week of April 26, 2021

“I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me – just as the Father knows me and I know the Father – and I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.”

John 10:14-16

ECME Devotion April 26, 2021

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

By this time in the school year, we may feel like we know our students pretty well. I know who loves the art center and who will pull out the blocks at play time. I know my right handers and left handers. I know who is struggling with letter recognition and who is already reading. But there’s so much about my students I don’t know. Even after a year together, children find ways to surprise me.

Jesus, our Good Shepherd, is never surprised. He knows us even better than we know ourselves. He knows what brings us joy and what makes us cry. And he knows our deepest darkest secrets. Every sin we have ever committed, Jesus knows about. That might distress us; we don’t want Jesus to know about our sinful thoughts, our careless words, and our selfish actions. The amazing thing is that Jesus loves us anyway. He did what no earthly shepherd would do for lowly sheep. He laid down his life for us so we may be with him forever.

Our Shepherd knows us, and we know the Shepherd. God gives us his Word in the Bible so that we may get to know Jesus. God’s Word points out our need for our Savior because of our sins. We read about God’s plan of sending his own son to take those sins away. We receive the wonderful promise of a home in heaven with our Good Shepherd.

Then God uses us to share this knowledge with others. We get to talk about Jesus with our students every day. We use God’s Word to teach and correct and train them. And our students share their faith and strengthen us as well. We know we are part of God’s flock.

King David wrote about our Good Shepherd with these familiar words, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” (Psalm 23:1-3, 6)

Prayer:

Savior, like a shepherd lead us; much we need your tender care.
In your pleasant pastures feed us; for our use your folds prepare.
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus, you have bought us; yours we are.
Ever let us seek your favor; ever let us do your will.
Blessed Lord and only Savior, with your love our hope fulfill.
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus, you have loved us; love us still. Amen.
Let All the People Praise You, p. 262: 1, 3

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

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

Listen to Your Shepherd’s Voice – Family Devotion – April 26, 2021

2021/04/26/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: John 10:11-18

I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me… They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.
John 10:14,16

Listen to Your Shepherd’s Voice

Devotion based on John 10:14,16

See series: Devotions

Family Devotion – April 26, 2021

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

In a little town in Croatia (a country in Europe very far away from the United States), villagers raise sheep. They send their sheep out to graze in the morning, and then they call their sheep home at night. You’d think that would be a big mess—hundreds or even thousands of sheep all coming back to the village at the same time and trying to find their shepherds!

But it isn’t because the sheep only listen to their own shepherd’s voice. In fact, if a husband and wife each have their own sheep, the wife’s sheep won’t come when the husband calls, and vice versa. The sheep only listen to the voice of their shepherd, because he’s the one who watches over them, protects them, and even puts himself in harm’s way to keep them safe.

In today’s reading, Jesus calls himself our Good Shepherd. He watches over us. He knows each one of us by name. He protects us from the devil, who “prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8). He even put himself in harm’s way to keep us safe, laying down his life for us on the cross.

Someday you’ll be in heaven with Jesus and able to perfectly appreciate what he did for you, but what about your life right now? You can’t see Jesus, and even though you know he’s always there watching over you and protecting you, sometimes it seems like he’s really far away. When life is hard, when it seems like everything is going wrong, when your friends make fun of you for being a Christian, what good is a good shepherd that you can’t even see?

It’s true that you can’t see your Good Shepherd here on this earth, but you can still hear him speaking to you through his Word. As you read and study the Bible, you come to know his voice better and better. When it comes to making decisions—choosing how you’re going to behave—you don’t have to be distracted by all the other voices around you. They aren’t the voice of your Shepherd, and they aren’t the voices that are important.

So listen to the voice of your Good Shepherd! He’s the one who loves you, the one you can always trust, the one you’ll finally get to see face-to-face in heaven someday. He’s the one who loves you so much he laid down his life for you, and he’s always worth listening to!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for being our good shepherd and calling us to be your sheep. Help us to keep reading and studying your Word so that we can learn better and listen better to your voice. 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

Whose voice should we listen to?
As the Good Shepherd, who does Jesus protect us from?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Name two ways you can better learn what your Good Shepherd’s voice sounds like.
Do you like being compared to sheep? Why or why not?

Questions for Middle School and Above

TRUE or FALSE: The voice of the Good Shepherd can be heard in the voices of your mom or dad.
Name two voices in your life right now that are distracting you from the voice of your good shepherd.

Hymn: CW 375:1,3 – The King of Love My Shepherd Is

The King of love my shepherd is,
Whose goodness fails me never;
I nothing lack if I am his,
And he is mine forever.

Confused and foolish oft I strayed,
But yet in love he sought me
And on his shoulder gently laid
And home, rejoicing, brought me.

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

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

Why the rage? – April 25, 2021

2021/04/25/in Devotions, Military Devotions

Why the rage? – April 25, 2021

Why do the nations rage? Why do the peoples grumble in vain? The kings of the earth take a stand, and the rulers join together against the Lord and against his Anointed One. “Let us tear off their chains and throw their ropes from us.” The one who is seated in heaven laughs. The Lord scoffs at them.
Psalm 2:1-4

Military Devotion – April 25, 2021

Devotion based on Psalm 2:1-4

See series: Military Devotions

Clenched fists. Broken windows. Screams of defiance. There is much anger in this world. Some would say there is much to protest against in this world since there is much wrong in this world.

The Christian has to agree that there is much wrong in the world because God has already said that. In fact, his report on the world’s condition is worse than ours. He sees and hears everything. His detection of evil is much more sensitive than ours.

We humans sometimes miss that beneath the anger we so easily express is a deeper irritation over what we consider to be the cause of our anger.

We might gripe against a certain authority in our life and stress over something going wrong in our life, but when we peel away the layers, God is found to be at the bottom of the pile. If he is the ultimate authority, if he has the power to do anything, then he must be the cause of whatever is wrong.

So we might think.

It insults the human ego to be told that the fault is actually with us. God even dares to say that we must obey him. He forbids the worship of other, so-called gods: “You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me” (Exodus 20:5).

Harsh words. Ultimately, the punishment would be eternal death.

It strikes us as strange that when their Creator offers life in glory to people dead in sin and destined for destruction, those people not only reject being rescued but become enraged at the Rescuer.

This is so obvious in the account of the life of Jesus of Nazareth upon this earth. He did not cheat anyone. He did not steal from anyone, He never did or said anything wrong to anyone.

So, how do we explain the vicious attacks against him? Wasn’t it enough that they were having him tortured and killed? Why did they feel the need to mock him as he was dying?

Why the rage against the Lord God and the Savior of sinners?

The answer was given already in the Garden of Eden when the holy God issued his judgment against the prince of evil: “And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel” (Genesis 3:15).

A state of war was declared on that day between the forces of good and the forces of evil. The battle rages to this day. Enmity is the cause of the rage.

There is nothing that evil can do to prevent God from gaining the victory. In reality, the battle has already been won.

The Son of God lived on earth. He died on earth. And he overcame sin, death, and the devil before he returned to heaven.

All the satanic forces can do is vent their anger against him and attempt to foil his plan to bring more people into his kingdom.

In the end, rage is the only response left. If not before, old age and death will bring the end of all hope in the battle against God.

The poet said it clearly:

“Do not go gentle into that good night,
Old age should burn and rave at close of day;
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.”

To live with rage and to die with rage is a sad life.

God laughs at the threat of puny humans shaking their fists at him.

Yet, God was willing to sacrifice his Son for the sake of such humans.

Instead of asking, “Why the rage?” we may well ask, “Why the love?”

Why would God love such people? Why would he love us?

It surely is love undeserved.

It is grace.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, forgive our sinful reactions to your offer of grace. Heavenly Father, forget our failures, which are covered by the blood of your Son. Fill us with your love. 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.

Transformed – teen devotion – April 25, 2021

2021/04/25/in Teen Devotions

On this mountain he will destroy the shroud that enfolds all peoples, the sheet that covers all nations; he will swallow up death forever. The Sovereign Lord will wipe away the tears from all faces; he will remove the disgrace of his people from all the earth. The Lord has spoken. In that day they will say, “Surely this is our God; we trusted in him, and he saved us. This is the Lord, we trusted in him; let us rejoice and be glad in his salvation.”
Isaiah 25:7-9

Death swallowed

Nine thousand, six hundred seventy-two. According to one study in Great Britain, that’s how many ailments and injuries the average person can expect during a lifetime.

The study even broke down the numbers according to ailment. The average person can expect approximately 860 headaches, 780 sore backs, 470 upset stomachs, 230 paper cuts, 150 blisters, 78 nose bleeds, 3 hospital stays, and 2 surgeries in a 78-year lifetime. And that’s just the average person!

Is it any wonder why death is always on the back of our minds?

Our hurting bodies constantly remind us that something is wrong. Our fluctuating health constantly teaches us that death lingers near. Our grieving hearts verify for us death’s daunting power. Death is, as the prophet Isaiah called it, the sheet that covers all people.

But death doesn’t have the final say on the matter of life. The Lord has spoken too about the end of death! Death isn’t the most powerful voice in the back of our minds or in the middle of the cemetery. Resurrected life is!

Long before Jesus’ body was placed in the tomb, Isaiah foretold the outcome. Death would be swallowed up in victory!

Long before you cry your last tear in the midst of death, Jesus’ resurrection has assured you of the outcome. He will wipe every tear away!

Long before you have your last paper cut, blister, nosebleed, surgery, or taken your last breath, you know who made the outcome of eternal life and victory possible. Surely this is our God! Let us rejoice and be glad in him!

Prayer: Jesus, when I grieve, comfort me. When I’m sick, provide healing and peace. When I’m afraid of death, assure me that you have swallowed it up in victory. 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.

The Sweet Smell of the Gospel – Family Devotion – April 23, 2021

2021/04/23/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: 2 Corinthians 2:12-3:6

But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him. For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are the smell of death; to the other, the fragrance of life. And who is equal to such a task?
2 Corinthians 2:14-16

The Sweet Smell of the Gospel

Devotion based on 2 Corinthians 2:14-16

See series: Devotions

Family Devotion – April 23, 2021

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

When a general returned to Rome after he won a battle, he would lead a parade through the streets of the capital (kind of like Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade). People packed the streets to watch. What did they see? They saw carts and wagons stacked with gold and silver from the conquered land. Dancers went in front of and behind the chariot of the conqueror, carrying huge garlands of flowers and pots of fragrant incense that filled the air with an intoxicating aroma. Behind the fragrant flowers marched thousands of captives, divided into two groups:

The first group who followed behind were the lucky ones who would live.
The second group were not so lucky. Shackled together, they dragged heavy chains. They were doomed for execution.

As the procession weaved its way through the cheering crowds, the incense pots and fragrant flowers were to the first group a fragrance of life, while the same aroma was to the second group a fragrance of death.

Today, you are part of a triumph parade. It began when an angel at the empty tomb said, “He is NOT here. He is risen!” Every day since, the resurrection parade led by Christ continues. You always fall short. Jesus did not. When you think of homework, you cry out, “It’s never finished!” When Jesus thought of your sin, he cried out, “It is finished!” You’re in the parade directly behind the Conqueror himself. It means you’re part of the first group. You get to live!

As you walk the parade route today, at whom will you be pointing? When you point at yourself, you’re saying, “Look at me!” When you point at Christ the Conqueror, you’re saying, “Look at him!” And when you point out Christ to others, you’re really pointing them to the gospel, which is God’s power to save. You’re inviting them to live with Jesus.

But I warn you, the reaction to your pointing to Jesus will be mixed. Why do some people believe Jesus and find the fragrance of life? Why do others reject Jesus and only smell of death? How sad. It doesn’t seem to make sense.

But the victory parade goes on. You are still a part of it. Jesus promises to ALWAYS lead us in triumph. That’s why it is so important to keep pointing more people to Jesus. May God bless your efforts as you bring the sweet smell of the gospel to those around you!

Closing Prayer:

Dear God, help me to spread the fragrance of life in Jesus so that many more may believe in him as their Savior. 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

Recount the last time you were at a parade.
Why does Jesus lead Easter’s parade?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Describe the two groups following behind the conqueror in today’s parade. In which group are you?
Why is it so important for you to point Jesus out to others?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Why do some people believe Jesus and find the fragrance of life? Why do others reject Jesus and only smell of death?
Give two ways you can smell like the fragrance of Jesus in what you say or what you do.

Hymn: CW 560:1,2 – I Hear the Savior Calling

I hear the Savior calling! The gospel comes to me.
My eyes once closed in blindness are opened now to see
That I myself was helpless to live eternally,
But, dying, Christ did save me, and now he calls for me!

I hear the Savior calling! He leads a soul to me,
A soul in bitter anguish, one needing to be free.
The gift I have to offer is Christ, my Lord’s decree
That all have been forgiven My Savior calls for me!

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

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

One Way – Family Devotion – April 21, 2021

2021/04/21/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Acts 4:9-12

Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.
Acts 4:12

One Way

Devotion based on Acts 4:12

See series: Devotions

Family Devotion – April 21, 2021

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

The apostle Peter had quite the life. As a simple fisherman, he was called by Jesus to be one of his first disciples and became one of his closest friends. He was an eyewitness to many of Jesus’ miracles, most importantly his resurrection from the dead. During his ministry he performed miracles through the power of the Holy Spirit and was an important leader of the early Christian church.

Like us, Peter wasn’t perfect. There was the time he almost drowned after failing to fully trust Jesus. He had a quick temper. He sometimes didn’t know when to be quiet. One time, Peter even denied knowing Jesus. Peter was a sinner, but he was also a great man who is now with Jesus in heaven.

You know what had nothing to do with him being saved? The fact he was a great man. Peter knew this truth. Through the work of the Holy Spirit, Peter realized the only way to eternal life in heaven is through trusting in Jesus, the risen Savior. This is the clear message he taught in our reading for today and throughout his ministry.

Sadly, there are many people today who feel there are many ways to get to heaven. They believe the way to heaven is like a mountain with many paths leading to the top. They are convinced that it doesn’t matter what God you believe in, as long as you do the right thing and are a good person, you can earn your way to heaven. This type of teaching is false and very dangerous.

The Bible is clear that there is only one way to heaven, and that is through faith in Jesus. To the unbelieving world this message is foolishness. As God’s children, this message brings us peace. If our salvation was based on our goodness, there would be no hope for our future. We sin each and every day by the hurtful words we speak and our unkind actions towards others. That is what makes the message of Easter so remarkable. We have done nothing to deserve God’s love and grace, yet he did everything necessary for us to be saved. We thank God the Holy Spirit for leading us to trust in the only one who truly saves, Jesus!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Holy Spirit, forgive us for the times we are tempted to believe we play a part in you wanting to save us. Help us to trust in the only one who truly saves, our Savior Jesus. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

Name one thing you did today that proves you sin.
How did Jesus save you from your sins?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

How do many people incorrectly believe that we can get to heaven?
Why do we have peace knowing that Jesus did everything needed for us to be saved?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Why do we say the message of Jesus is foolishness to the unbelieving world?
What do other religions teach about the way to get to heaven?

Hymn: CW 76:3,4 – Jesus! Name of Wondrous Love

Jesus! Name of priceless worth
To the fallen here on earth
For the promise that it gave,
“Jesus shall his people save.”

Jesus! Only name that’s giv’n
Under all the mighty heav’n
Whereby all, to sin enslaved,
Burst their fetters and are saved.

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

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

Peace Be With You – Family Devotion – April 19, 2021

2021/04/19/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Luke 24:36-49

While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” They were startled and frightened, thinking they saw a ghost. He said to them, “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts rise in your minds? Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have.”
Luke 24:36-39

Peace Be With You!

Devotion based on Luke 24:36-39

See series: Devotions

Family Devotion – April 19, 2021

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

Being alone. The dark. Big animals. Bugs. Heights. What do all of these things have in common? They are fears of young children. After this past year, a new fear for many children might be pandemics. What can make a pandemic so scary is the uncertainty and confusion around it. When will it be safe to see my grandma and grandpa again? When can I go back to in-person school? When can I quit wearing a mask? Not knowing the answers to questions like these can lead us to be fearful and confused about the future.

The disciples were full of fear and confusion as they hid behind the locked door of their house. They had been told by close friends that Jesus’ tomb was empty and that he had risen from the dead, but they couldn’t believe it because this seemed like nonsense to them.

Then the unthinkable happened! Without the door being opened Jesus appeared to them and said, “Peace be with you.” The disciples were far from being at peace. They were even more frightened. They thought Jesus was a ghost. Then Jesus calmed their nerves by proving he was truly alive. He helped them understand and trust everything that happened over the past few days was part of God’s plan to save them and all people from their sins.

As we face challenges that make us afraid, we may wish we could just lock ourselves in a room. It isn’t just the global problems like natural disasters and pandemics that cause us to fear. There will always be something we must face each and every day. Maybe it’s the bully who constantly picks on us. The math lesson we just can’t figure out. The constant fighting that takes place in our homes. So often we find ourselves overwhelmed with fear and doubt.

Then we open our Bibles and hear our Savior say, “Peace be with you.” The Bible proves to us that Jesus rose from the dead and took care of our biggest problem: sin. That doesn’t mean we won’t face challenges or that our life here on earth as believers will be easy. What it does mean is that amidst the chaos of our lives we can have peace because our future in heaven is secure through Jesus. May Jesus’ words of comfort in John 14:27 calm your fears, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

Closing Prayer:

Dear Risen Savior, all too often we are overwhelmed with fear and doubt. Help us find comfort in your promises and discover peace in the truth of your Word. 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 are you most afraid of?
Who is more powerful than anything you might fear?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

What does God use to strengthen our faith in him and his promises?
How does Jesus’ resurrection from the dead give us peace even as we experience difficulties?

Questions for Middle School and Above

What part of this pandemic has caused you the most anxiety and fear?
What Bible passage(s) provides you with the most comfort as you face adversity?

Hymn: CW 158:3 – I Am Content! My Jesus Lives Again

I am content! My Jesus is my light, My radiant sun of grace.
His cheering rays beam blessings forth for all: Sweet comfort, hope, and peace.
This Easter sun has brought salvation and everlasting exultation.
I am content! I am content!

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

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

Justice – Week of April 19, 2021

2021/04/19/in Devotions, ECME Devotions

Justice – Week of April 19, 2021

My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father – Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.

1 John 2:1-2

ECME Devotion April 19, 2021

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

I saw the jury summons, and I wondered what the experience would be like. I spent two days in a courtroom watching the judge and lawyers select members for the jury. I wasn’t chosen, but I could see that each lawyer wanted people on the jury that would sympathize with their client. I don’t know how that particular trial turned out, but, if the system worked, justice was done.

True justice demands payment. If you do the crime, you’ll have to pay the price. God’s justice is no different. If we sin, even just once, we deserve eternal punishment. We all have to plead guilty before a just and holy God. But God had a different plan.

Imagine a courtroom where a criminal is brought before the judge. The proof is clear, this person is guilty. When it comes time for the verdict, the lawyer says, “Don’t punish my client. Give me the punishment instead.” The judge agrees, and the lawyer is sentenced to death. No one would do that.
But one person did. Jesus comes before his Father and advocates for us. We are clearly guilty, but Jesus gives us his perfection. He took the punishment we deserve when he suffered and died on the cross. “Not guilty,” God declares, and justice is done.

That was God’s plan all along. He promised the very first sinners, Adam and Eve, that he would send a Savior, and it would be his own son. Jesus came and lived the holy life we cannot live. His innocence was transferred to us. He took our punishment and gave us his perfection.

Now perfect in God’s eyes, we get to share Jesus’ victory. Death couldn’t hold on to Jesus, and it won’t be our end either. We will join our Savior in heaven where we will thank and praise him and live in his perfection forever.

Prayer:

Bold shall I stand in that great day – Who can a word against me say?
Fully through you absolved I am from sin and fear, from guilt and shame.
When from the dust of death I rise to claim my mansion in the skies,
E’en then this shall be all my plea; Jesus has lived and died for me.
Jesus, be worshiped endlessly! Your boundless mercy has for me,
For me and all your hands have made, an everlasting ransom paid. Amen.
Christian Worship 376:2, 5, 6

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

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

Transformed – teen devotion – April 18, 2021

2021/04/18/in Teen Devotions

Go at once and select the animals for your families and slaughter the Passover lamb. Take a bunch of hyssop, dip it into the blood in the basin and put some of the blood on the top and on both sides of the doorframe… When the Lord goes through the land to strike down the Egyptians, he will see the blood on the top and sides of the doorframe and will pass over that doorway, and he will not permit the destroyer to enter your houses and strike you down.
Exodus 12:21-23

Passover

Do you eat a special diet? Do you know anyone who eats a special diet?

God gave his people, the Israelites, a special Passover diet in Exodus 12. The main item on the menu was a blemish-free lamb. God instructed Israel on how to prepare it, eat it, and even what to do with the lamb’s blood. They were to paint it on their doorframes—almost like a Halloween movie scene.

Why did the Lord give this special meal and these specific instructions? He was setting the table for his deliverance. The Israelites were enslaved in Egypt at the time. But the Lord would deliver them in a special way—through the blood of a lamb!

But lamb wasn’t the only food on the menu. The Israelites were to eat bitter herbs to remind them of their bitter slavery and need for deliverance. You probably don’t need to eat herbs to be reminded of bitterness. Are you lonely, sick, frustrated, afraid, or struggling with sin? The reminders of bitterness are all around every day. Like Israel, you need deliverance too.

God has provided your deliverance through THE Lamb! All those Passover lambs set the table for Jesus, THE ultimate Passover Lamb to come. Years later, a man named John the Baptist pointed directly at Jesus and said, “Look, THE Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world!” (John 1:29).

At the Passover, every family had its own lamb. Every Israelite archway was covered in blood. God made his deliverance personal. God makes his deliverance personal to you too. In bread and wine, Jesus gives his body and blood for your forgiveness. On the archway of your heart and the framework of your conscience, God paints the certain promise that Jesus has, does, and will deliver us too.

Prayer: Jesus, when I am reminded of the bitterness of sin and life in a sin-filled world, deliver me and renew me in your saving love. Amen.

Teen Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

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

Babylon is fallen – April 18, 2021

2021/04/18/in Devotions, Military Devotions

Babylon is fallen – April 18, 2021

And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen…
Revelation 14:8 KJV

Military Devotion – April 18, 2021

Devotion based on Revelation 14:8 KJV

See series: Military Devotions

There is such a thing as an evil empire. History has shown us that despicable kingdoms can exist, that vicious and heartless powers can rule.

Examples quickly come to mind—those who systematically rounded up Jews for extermination qualify for our list of evil. Then we think of the purges in Russia and China that brought death to so many thousands.

We have seen a sinister type of evil that uses its position to torture others. American POWs have been on the receiving end of that.

We don’t forget that.

Neither could the Jews in the first century forget that the Babylonians had once smashed through their defenses, destroyed the Lord’s temple, slaughtered innocent people—and dragged many off to live out their lives as captives in a foreign land.

We hear the bitterness of those captives in their psalm of lament:
“O Daughter of Babylon, doomed to destruction,
happy is he who repays you for what you have done to us—
he who seizes your infants and dashes them against the rocks” (Psalm 137:8,9).

The bitterness seared Israeli hearts.

Babylon was a world power, seemingly invincible, with its capital a little north of Baghdad. For Israel of old, it represented the embodiment of evil.

Yet, far in advance of its downfall, the prophet, Isaiah, announced, “Babylon is fallen, is fallen!”

It was not a false claim. It was merely given before it absolutely would happen. Babylon fell overnight. The new Persian king freed the captives and let them go home if they wanted to.

It’s no wonder that centuries later, “Babylon” came to symbolize all the enemies of God’s people for all time, with Satan as its head.

No surprise then that the great evil empire’s destruction is announced in advance—just as ancient Babylon’s fall was.

The holy, powerful God has spoken. The angel in the book of Revelation can announce: “Babylon is fallen, is fallen!” The kingdom of evil is fallen. Thus, the Lord God has decreed.

But we don’t see that when we look out through our window on the world. The kingdom of evil seems to show itself alive and well—and growing.

Families are falling apart. Children are being raised without a moral compass. Modern technology has speeded up the spread of falsehood and filth.

The number of people that say there is no God or that God is not relevant is increasing.

Murder is on the rise. Rejection of Christian values is mounting.

God is openly disrespected—even in the land that declares, “In God We Trust.”

Each year it only seems to be getting worse.

Thus, we need to hear the true state of affairs. The announcement from heaven is: “Babylon is fallen, is fallen.”

The death knell of evil was sounded when the Son of God called out, “It is finished!”

When Jesus descended into hell after coming back to life, it was not to endure suffering. It was his victory lap in the arena of the damned. The war had been won. Only mopping up remains.

Warriors know about the dangers during mopping-up actions. The defeated can still kill. Likewise, Christians need to watch out lest they be laid low by Satan’s spiritual IEDs and snipers that aim to kill saving faith.

We have not yet left the battlefield. We have not been told to “Stand down!” Not yet. OPSEC must be maintained. We must stay alert.

But there is no doubt about Babylon, that kingdom of evil.

“Babylon is fallen, is fallen.”

It is fallen indeed!

Prayer: Lord of glory and Savior of mankind, the power of the forces of evil sometimes seems overwhelming. Remind us of the true state of affairs. Point out to us that you have already gained the victory for us, and evil will finally fail. Keep us safe until then. Keep us faithful. 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.

A Truly Happy Ending – Family Devotion – April 16, 2021

2021/04/16/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: 1 Corinthians 15:12-22

And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins. Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost. If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied. But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.
1 Corinthians 15:17-20

A Truly Happy Ending

Devotion based on 1 Corinthians 15:17-20

See series: Devotions

Family Devotion – April 16, 2021

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

Imagine if the following movies ended this way:

The glass slipper was accidentally dropped and shattered. Prince Charming ended up marrying one of Cinderella’s stepsisters.
Aladdin foolishly wasted his third and final wish on a Cherry Icee. The genie remains trapped in the lamp.
Luke Skywalker’s mission to destroy the reactor system of the Death Star failed. The Empire still rules the galaxy.

What a difference it would make for some of our favorite stories if these events were how they finished. They certainly wouldn’t be the feel-good movies, with a happy ending, that we love to watch over and over again.

Paul was dealing with individuals in the Corinthian church who were denying the happy ending of Easter. They were arguing that people are not able to be risen from the dead. What a devastating ending for Christians if true!

If people cannot be raised from the dead, that means Jesus did not rise from the dead. If Jesus did not come back to life that would mean our faith would be in a still dead Savior which would be pointless. We would remain lost in our sins and our hope of living eternally in heaven would be a false confidence.

Praise be to God that the message of Easter is not just a made-up story to make us feel better. It is an undeniable fact that Jesus physically rose from the dead. There were hundreds of eyewitnesses who saw Jesus in the flesh before he returned to heaven. Paul was so sure because he himself saw his risen Savior. The happy ending to Easter will never change!

The truth of Jesus’ resurrection means everything for us. On judgment day, everyone who ever lived will be raised from the dead. Those who have received the gift of faith in Jesus as their Savior will be joined with him in heaven. The best part of this happy ending for believers is that there is no ending. In the perfection of heaven, we will live forever with no end. There are still many people today who don’t believe in the resurrection of the dead, but we can have complete assurance that because Jesus lives, we also will live forever.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Risen Savior, you showed your power over sin and death by rising from the dead. Work in us the confidence of faith that we will also be raised on judgment day to live with you forever in heaven. 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 does it mean that people were eyewitnesses of Jesus resurrection?
What do you think heaven will be like?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

What would it mean for believers if Jesus didn’t truly rise from the dead?
Why can we be confident that Jesus did truly rise from the dead?

Questions for Middle School and Above

How does the assurance of Jesus’ resurrection provide us comfort as we face challenges throughout our life?
What can we learn from Paul as he defended the truth of the resurrection with those in the Corinth congregation who denied it?

Hymn: CW 152:7 – I Know that My Redeemer Lives

He lives and grants me daily breath;
He lives, and I shall conquer death.
He lives my mansion to prepare;
He lives to bring me safely there.

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

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

Bad News, Good News – Family Devotion – April 14, 2021

2021/04/14/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Acts 3:12-20

Repent therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out, that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus.
Acts 3:19,20

Bad News, Good News

Devotion based on Acts 3:19,20

See series: Devotions

Family Devotion – April 14, 2021

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

Have you ever had to tell someone bad news? It isn’t very fun. For example, you wouldn’t be overly excited to let your parents know you got in big trouble at school or to tell your best friend you are moving out of town. On the flip side, it is great to share good news. We love telling people about the A we got on our big project or that we made the team or were selected for the lead in the play. In our reading for today, Peter shares some bad news and good news.

Peter was talking to people who had recently shouted for Jesus to be crucified. He spoke the law to these people to show them their sin. By following their leaders, they were guilty of putting Jesus, the Savior of the world, to death. This bad news must have been hard for them to hear.

God’s law is difficult for us to hear as well. It shows us that it was also because of our sins, those times that we have sinful thoughts, speak unkindly to our parents, or hurt others, that Jesus had to die a terrible death. Our sins have ruined our relationship with Jesus.

Peter’s command to those in the crowd is the same for us. Repent! To repent means to feel sorry for our sins, admit them, turn from them, and trust that Jesus has forgiven them. That forgiveness of sins was won for us through Jesus when he died on the cross and rose from the dead.

That was the good news Peter shared with the crowd he was speaking to. It was the message of the gospel which showed the people their Savior. Even though they were guilty of killing Jesus, God used their evil actions to carry out his plan. This plan to was to save them and all people from their sins. We know this plan was successful because on Easter morning Jesus’ tomb was empty. He was alive!

That first Easter was over 2,000 years ago. Yet the message of Easter still remains the best news ever for all people of all time. Because Jesus rose from the dead, we can be certain that all of our sins are forgiven. Through the gift of faith, we can be sure that even though we don’t deserve it, we will live forever with Jesus in heaven.

May God give us the confidence of Peter to be honest with ourselves and others about the bad news of sin and the importance of repenting, and then give us the opportunity to point others to the solution to sin, our risen Savior, Jesus!

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, we have done nothing to deserve the love you showed us by dying on the cross and rising from the dead to save us. Guide us to share this good news with others. 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 it called when we disobey God’s commands?
What event do we celebrate on Easter?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

What does it mean to repent of your sins?
Why is Easter the most important day in the history of the world?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Name two barriers that get in the way of you and your family sharing Jesus with others?
Why is it so important that both the law and the gospel are taught?

Hymn: CW 149:1 – Christ the Lord Is Risen Today

“Christ the Lord is ris’n today!”
Saints on earth and angels say;
Raise your joys and triumphs high;
Sing, O heav’ns, and earth reply.

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

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

Peace Be with You! – Week of April 12, 2021

2021/04/12/in Devotions, ECME Devotions

Peace Be with You! – Week of April 12, 2021

On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.
Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”

John 20:19-23

ECME Devotion April 12, 2021

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

Peace – that’s not the first word most teachers associate with a busy classroom. Children play, shout out answers, sometimes argue. The classroom can be a joyful, noisy place, but peaceful? Not so often.

Peace – that’s probably not how the disciples were feeling that first Easter evening. They saw their Savior put on trial, crucified, and buried. Would they be next? Then some women told them that Jesus was alive. But that would be too good to be true. Confused, sad, scared – that’s what the disciples likely felt.

Peace – that was the first word Jesus said to his astonished disciples when he appeared to them in that locked room. With the realization that their Savior was alive, the disciples truly could have peace in their hearts. This peace was better than any earthly peace. Before his death, Jesus had told his disciples, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) Jesus brings everlasting peace. Troubles of this world will fade away, but we have what we need for eternity. We are washed clean of our sins, we will conquer death, and we will join Jesus in heaven. That is peace.

Jesus told his disciples not to keep this peace to themselves. “As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” (John 20:21). The disciples’ lifework became sharing that peace with the world. We also are sent to share God’s peace. Every day we get to share the special news with our students: “Jesus loves you. Jesus took your sins away. Jesus will always be with you.” And they share that peace with us too. When they sing their Jesus songs and proclaim their faith, they strengthen us. And when they go home and share what they’ve learned, Jesus’ peace is spread even further.

Peace isn’t a quiet classroom. Peace is a classroom of people who talk about Jesus, who know his love and share that love with others, who sing and pray and praise God. Peace be with you.

Prayer: Dear Jesus, thank you for bringing me true peace through your death and resurrection. Let that knowledge strengthen me so I can share your peace with others. Amen.

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

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

Prove It – Family Devotion – April 12, 2021

2021/04/12/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: John 20:19-31

Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe.” Jesus did many other miraculous signs in the presence of his disciples which are not recorded in this book. But these words are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.
John 20:29-31

Prove It

Devotion based on John 20:29-31

See series: Devotions

Family Devotion – April 12, 2021

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

There are certain things that are hard to believe unless you see it. In December there was a story about Steph Curry making 105 three pointers in a row at practice without missing. If you have ever played basketball, you know how impossible that sounds. With a quick Google search you can actually watch the 5-minute video of him making three after three until he finally misses on his 106th shot.

Three days after Jesus died on the cross, he appeared in person to his disciples. They could barely believe it, and they were surprised to see Jesus in the flesh. One of the disciples, Thomas, was not there that night. The disciples told Thomas they saw Jesus, but he would not believe unless he saw Jesus himself. This is why he is often called doubting Thomas.

A week later, Jesus again visited the disciples, and this time Thomas was there with them. Thomas talked with Jesus and even touched his wounds. After seeing Jesus face-to-face, Thomas stopped doubting and believed.

At times we can be a lot like Thomas. We might doubt if God is real. We might doubt if Jesus could truly forgive us for a horrible thing that we have done. We might doubt if certain parts of the Bible at true. We might doubt that doing good things doesn’t save us. As with Thomas we want God to show us proof.

That is exactly what God does in the Bible. We certainly can’t see Jesus with our own eyes, but in the Bible, we can learn that Jesus did everything needed to save us from our sins. While he was on earth Jesus never sinned once, he gave up his own life for us by dying on the cross, and three days later his tomb was empty because he had risen from the dead. God gave us the Bible so that we might know and believe in Jesus as our Savior.

Each time we read and study the Bible at home or at church, God the Holy Spirit is working to strengthen our faith and trust in Jesus. The next time you find yourself doubting, open up your Bible and read God’s perfect promises. Believe! Trust! Jesus your Savior is truly alive!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, forgive us for the times that we doubt the truth found in your Word. Lead us to study the Bible often and increase our trust in your perfect promises. 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 nickname that people often call Thomas?
Where can we learn about Jesus and all that he did to save us from our sins?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

If you were Thomas, do you think that you would have believed the other disciples when they said Jesus appeared to them?
What parts of the Bible do you sometimes have doubts about or have trouble understanding?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Why do you think so many people today have such a hard time believing the Bible is true?
What steps can you take this upcoming week to be more regular in studying God’s Word?

Hymn: CW 165:8 – O Sons and Daughters of the King

Blessed are they that have not seen
And yet whose faith has constant been;
In life eternal they shall reign.
Alleluia!

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

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

Tidings of joy – April 11, 2021

2021/04/11/in Devotions, Military Devotions

Tidings of joy – April 11, 2021

While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen!
Luke 24:4,5

Military Devotion – April 11, 2021

Devotion based on Luke 24:4,5

See series: Military Devotions

In the excitement of Easter, we must not forget about Mary, the one who was engaged to Joseph and became the mother of Jesus.

Words from an angel startled her with the message that she would have a son, “…and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High” (Luke 1:31-32). She pondered those words.

She again heard of words from angels when she gave birth to that Son. Shepherds reported what they had heard from an angel over the fields of Bethlehem: “Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10,11).

We sing of Bethlehem on that night, “The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.”

Hopes and fears marked the life of the young woman who told the angel, “I am the Lord’s servant.”

She surely hoped that her son would be great. But fear invaded her life when Herod gave orders to hunt her son down and kill him. Fear again arose when she heard that it was not safe to return to Bethlehem even after Herod died.

Hope must have blossomed as she saw her son grow “…in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man” (Luke 2:52).

Hope must have filled her heart as she saw him ride into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday.

Then, fear struck with the news that he had been arrested. Confusion and dread flooded in with the word that he would be executed.

She must have wondered, “How can this be?” “How can he die now?”

But it happened. She saw him being crucified with her own eyes. She stood at the foot of the cross with the other women who had come from Galilee until Jesus told John to take care of her as if she was his own mother.

She walked away from the cross to face a dark night of sorrow. Women from Galilee stayed to the end. Then, from a distance, they watched as strangers took down the body and carried it into a tomb.

The dawn of the Sabbath brought no relief.

At the dawn of the next day, the third day, some of those women from Galilee returned to the tomb to finish anointing the body for burial.

They were startled to have an angel tell them, “He is not here; he has risen!”

The words came to Mary as if the floodgates of joy had opened up. Fear was replaced by hope—by hope fulfilled.

“Tidings of joy” are what the Christmas angels announced.

“Tidings of joy” are what the Easter angels announced.

Along with Mary of old, those tidings fill us with joy yet today.

We can call to one another, “The Lord has risen. He is risen indeed!!”

Prayer: God of the living, who brought life to mankind by the resurrection of your Son from the dead, remind us that your promises are always true, and your love never fails. Let our hearts not be overcome by fear. Plant into us an everlasting hope. Let us taste again the Easter joy. 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.

Transformed – teen devotion – April 11, 2021

2021/04/11/in Teen Devotions

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

Scars that heal

Every scar has a story.

The scar on the athlete’s knee tells of the torn ligament and the lost season. The scar on the child’s chin tells of the hard fall when learning to ride a bike. Do you remember the stories behind your scars?

Over 700 years before Jesus was born, the prophet Isaiah wrote about the scars the suffering Savior would receive. We cringe as the nails drew innocent blood from Jesus’ hands and feet on a cross. We sigh as the spear pierced his lifeless body. Do you remember the story behind Jesus’ scars?

Jesus’ scars tell the seriousness of sin. Our holy God demands that sin be punished, and the punishment deserved for our sin is death. But Jesus’ scars also tell the seriousness of God’s peace. Jesus willingly and lovingly took the punishment in our place. He got what we deserved. In exchange, he gives us what we didn’t deserve—his forgiveness and peace.

Every scar has a story.

But not all scars are visible. Thomas, one of Jesus’ disciples, was scarred with doubt. He wouldn’t believe Jesus had risen unless he saw the scars and touched them. Jesus appeared and removed all doubt. Jesus’ scars brought Thomas what Isaiah had prophesied long ago—healing peace. They still do!

Do you have any “invisible scars?” Are you scarred by grief? Have you been hurt by a friend or bullied by an enemy? Do you have deep pains inside from some heavy burden? Then, remember Isaiah’s words. Look upon Jesus’ scars. Find healing and peace in Jesus!

Prayer: Jesus, heal my wounds physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Help me to find healing and peace in your wounds and your great love for me. 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.

Christ First, Then Us – Family Devotion – April 9, 2021

2021/04/09/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: 1 Corinthians 15:19-26

But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. But each in turn: Christ, the firstfruits; then, when he comes, those who belong to him.
1 Corinthians 15:20-23

Christ First, Then Us

Devotion based on Isaiah 25:6,8

See series: Devotions

Family Devotion – April 9, 2021

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

The summer months are fantastic. Not only do kids have off school and families go on vacations, but it’s also one of the best food times of the year. Yep, you guessed it, it’s time for sweet corn! After months of nourishment and growth and care, when the ears are still firm and the husks still green, farmers begin harvesting for hungry corn lovers everywhere. And perhaps that first batch of sweet corn harvested is the best—because it means there’s lots more to come!

You might call that first batch of corn the firstfruits. That’s what God’s Old Testament people called the very first of their grain harvest every year. And it’s an appropriate name—it was the first of the fruit of the ground, the very first of the wheat or the barley brought in from the fields.

But why, then, does the Bible call Jesus the firstfruits? That’s what the apostle Paul said in our reading: “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.” What does that mean? Why is Paul comparing Jesus to a plant?

That’s the good news about Easter! Just like the first of the harvest means there’s lots more grain or corn to come, so also the first resurrection—Jesus’ resurrection—means there are more resurrections to come. Or more simply: Jesus’ resurrection means we too will rise from the dead! Jesus is the firstfruits because he’s the first of many, including you and me, to be raised from death!

Think about what that means. On that first Easter, Jesus’ once lifeless body lived again. His eyes that had closed in death only days ago, opened. His voice that had become silent, spoke. His feet that had walked among his followers, stood among them again. His hands that had broken bread with his disciples, shared a meal with them once more. Jesus, once dead, lived!

So shall you and I. On the last day, when our Savior returns to raise all the dead, we too will live again. Our eyes will open. Our voices will speak. Our feet that once ran, jumped, skipped, and danced will run, jump, skip, and dance once more. Only this time, when Jesus raises us it will be forever! Just as Jesus lives and will never die again, so also we will live with Jesus and never die again.

We too will defeat death. Jesus, our firstfruits, is the guarantee. Because he lives, we too will live!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for rising from the dead so that one day my eyes will open, my voice will speak, my ears will hear, and I will live with you forever—never to die again. 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 very first of the harvest called?
What happened to Jesus’ body on Easter?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

When does Paul say that we will rise from the dead?
In this life, we run and get tired, we fall and break bones, we catch a cold and get sick. When we rise, our bodies will be like Jesus’ body. What do you think that will be like?

Questions for Middle School and Above

The apostle Paul says that Jesus is “the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.” Why do you think he calls our death a sleep?
Look again at verses 21-22. Why have all people died in Adam? Why will all believers live through Christ?

Hymn: CW 152:7,8 – I Know that My Redeemer Lives

He lives and grants me daily breath;
He lives, and I shall conquer death.
He lives my mansion to prepare;
He lives to bring me safely there.

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!”

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

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

Death and Tears Are Gone – Family Devotion – April 7, 2021

2021/04/07/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Isaiah 25:6-9

On this mountain the LORD Almighty will prepare
a feast of rich food for all peoples,
a banquet of aged wine—
the best of meats and the finest of wines…
he will swallow up death forever.
The Sovereign LORD will wipe away the tears
from all faces;
he will remove his people’s disgrace
from all the earth.
The LORD has spoken.
Isaiah 25:6,8

Death and Tears Are Gone

Devotion based on Isaiah 25:6,8

See series: Devotions

Family Devotion – April 7, 2021

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

Can you see it in your mind? You step into the banquet hall, and the aroma of your favorite foods fills the air. The meal is ready, the drinks are being poured, and dessert (triple chocolate cake with chocolate frosting?) is fresh from the oven. The sound of happy conversation, of laughter, and of joyful praise mingles together. You take a step forward and see your place at the table—reserved there, by name, just for you. And then comes a voice, a familiar voice, the voice of Jesus: “Sit friend, I’ve prepared everything.” And so the feasting begins.

That’s one of the ways the Bible pictures heaven—a great feast, a feast unlike any other. There are people from every place and of every language; every believer in Jesus is gathered together. There’s only the finest food and drink, the tastiest meal to enjoy. And our Savior Jesus is there—the host who’s prepared it all.

But there’s something else that’s special about this feast—something we can’t fully understand: the joy of the feast never ends.

Sure, we experience happy times in life—birthday parties, family get-togethers, celebrations, graduations. But all of these come to an end. The laughter dies out. The smiles fade. The games stop. Eventually everyone goes home. And on top of this, there are plenty of outright sad times in life too! Times when we’re sick, when our feelings are hurt, or when we miss people we love. Times of pain. Times of loneliness. Times of tears.

But when the Bible talks about heaven, it talks about joy that never ends. It talks about Jesus wiping every tear from our eyes. It talks about rejoicing and celebrating and praising that never stops and never gets old. Yes, it talks about life with God forever!

How can this be? Only because of Easter! You see, when Jesus rose from the dead, he didn’t just come back to life—he defeated death, he destroyed it, he swallowed it up forever! And not just death, but all pain and tears and sadness, yours and mine too! That’s the story of Easter. Because Jesus lives, you and I will one day live with him. Because Jesus lives, all our sicknesses, all our hurts, all our loneliness, all our tears—yes, all our pain will end. Because Jesus lives, our place at heaven’s feast is prepared, ready and waiting for us.

Now that’s a reason to rejoice and be glad!

Closing Prayer:

Dear God, we praise you for defeating death, pain, and sadness through Jesus’ rising from the dead. Lead us to always trust in your promise to bring us home to heaven. 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 your favorite food you’d like to enjoy in heaven?
What will happen to sadness and pain when we’re in heaven?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Why do you think the Bible calls heaven a “banquet” instead of just a simple meal? What’s the difference?
Think of the best party you’ve ever experienced. What made it so great? How will heaven compare to that?

Questions for Middle School and Above

We all have hurts, we all feel pain, we all shed tears. Is there a hurt that you especially look forward to leaving behind when you go to heaven?
What do you think will be the best part of heaven and living forever? Why?

Hymn: CW 152:3,5 – I Know that My Redeemer Lives

He lives to bless me with his love;
He lives to plead for me above.
He lives, my hungry soul to feed;
He lives to help in time of need.

He lives to silence all my fears;
He lives to wipe away my tears.
He lives to calm my troubled heart;
He lives all blessings to impart.