Palm Sundays

It was only a matter of time

2011-12-19T12:02:00.000-08:00

Ecce Homo (Behold the man)

2011-11-08T13:05:00.000-08:00

(John 19:5 KJV) Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man!

When Pilate presented Jesus to the crowd, in Amtonio Ciscri’s painting above, he said “Ecce Homo” That is “Behold the man”! But Jesus is more than a man, he is also God. This Jesus was going to be made a curse for us as we are told in (Galatians 3:13 KJV) Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:.

Notice even the type of crown Jesus is wearing. It is part of God’s curse on this world as we are told in (Genesis 3:17-18 KJV) And unto Adam he said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life; Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field;.

Yes this God man standing before Pilate, was wearing a crown that symbolized what was going to happen to him, in order to redeem us from the curse.

Why did the devil rebel

2011-11-02T11:47:00.000-07:00

Although the bible does not tell us why the devil rebelled and carried off one third of the angels, it does give us hints.

One hint is that the bible does not teach that the Devil is omniscient. That is, he is not all knowing like God. He does not know what will happen in the future. This does not mean that he does not have a vast knowledge for he has had many millenniums to learn all about our weakness. Therefore the bible warns us in (1 Pet 5:8 KJV) Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:.

Another hint is that time has an arrow, that is it goes in one direction. The first three words of the bible “ In the beginning ….“ started time and then the bible tells of a history of God‘s dealing with his creation and that there will be an end when Jesus comes a second time.

With these two hints let us look at two ideas about why the devil rebelled.

1. One cause for jealousy and rebellion is: When the Devil saw that man would be elevated, in Christ, to the right hand of God in Christ’s Incarnation and Ascension.

2. Another cause is: When the devil saw that man and woman were made in the image of God.

Both of the above causes elevate mankind to the highest position in all of God’s creation.

Let us now establish a time line for these causes. First, there was no sin at the end of God’s creation for when he finished he declared it to be very good: (Gen 1:31 KJV) And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day. Second, during creation both man and woman were created in God’s image: (Gen 1:27 KJV) So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. Third, sin enters into God’s creation in the third chapter of Genesis when the serpent tempts Eve. And fourth Christ’s Incarnation and Ascension occurs Many millenniums in the future.

Because the devil, in chapter three of Genesis, would have had to look Many millenniums into the future to know of Christ’s Incarnation and Ascension, the first cause is eliminated, for the devil is not omniscient. However the second cause fits into the time line very well. Creation takes place in chapter one of Genesis and the devil has time to see this before chapter three when he temps Eve. Seeing this elevated position of the image of God could be the reason for the devil to rebel.

The most important video you could ever share with someone who has left Christianity

2011-11-02T10:30:00.000-07:00

Dr. Rod Rosenbladt on "The Gospel For Those Broken By The Church" from Faith Lutheran Church on Vimeo.

The off off Broadway Hit "Martin Get Your Nun" (the Musical)

2011-10-30T18:26:00.000-07:00

DISCLAIMER: These songs were written by our family this week as we were home recovering from the croup. They were written for our amusement and come with a restraining order to not be sung in 2 miles of an invocation or a benediction. (And, yes, we know they contain anachronistic uses of the term "Lutheran") We hope you enjoy. HAPPY REFORMATION DAY!!!

Martin the Lutheran (from the off off Broadway musical “Martin Get Your Nun”)

(to the tune “Buffalo Bill”)

Who's got the books that make the Pope go wild?

Baptizes every woman, man and child?

Who preaches Gospel when the Law shows all your sin?

(Who?)

Martin the Lutheran!

Whose choir sings in church without applause?

500 stanza and no altar calls!

10 communion hymns and there's a Christ-centered sermon?

(Who?)

Martin the Lutheran!

Have you ever seen a pastor with a beer?

(No we haven't!)

Or a church that has Epiphany each year?

(No we haven't!)

Or a German in a church who sheds a tear?

(No we haven't!)

Have you ever been to Wartburg?

(No sir!)

Then gather closer

And let me give you some of the atmosphere...

The hour is midnight and all is still

We see a friar climbing up a hill

Weary and worn from traveling

after the worst voter's meeting!

Diet of Worms condemned his doctrine all along.

The young reformer is on his steed

His trusty Bible resting on his knee

Knowing his life hangs by a thread

now that the pope declared him dead

Here I stand. I can do no other.

Suddenly there's a scene!

(Tell me, “What does this mean?”)

Tell me, “What does this mean?” you ask,

it's Lutherans.

(Lutherans?)

Lutherans!

(Lutherans!!)

Very musical, anti-enthusical Lutherans!

Just when the pope has come on with full force

Friends kidnap Luther riding on his horse.

To Wartburg castle where he'll do some translatin'

(Ulrich Zwingli?)

No! Martin the Lutheran!

Certainly this is pure doctrine

Better than all the Vatican

Better be on the go and in the know

with Martin the Lutheran!

There's No Lutherans like Old Lutherans

(to the tune "There's no Business Like Showbusiness”)

The vestments, the solas, the doctrine, the cross,

the acolyte that doesn't fit his gown.

The quilting, the organ, the potluck, the mites

the Altar Guild that never let's you down.

The prelude when your heart is beating fast.

The benediction and then Bible Class

There's no Lutherans like Old Lutherans like no Lutherans I know.

Everything about them is appealing.

Everything the elders will allow.

If you want to see them hit the ceiling

Just take their pew and they'll have a cow!

There's no Lutherans like Old Lutherans they smile when they are blue.

Yesterday Old Adam was drowned again.

We're Lutheran saints but we also sin.

Still with Absolution we will always win.

This is most certainly true.

The pastor, the choir, the hymnal, the young

the organist who warms the church at dawn

the name of the Father, the Spirit, the Son

Please make sure that your cell phones are not on!

The coffee and the donuts and the smell

The last quick word before they ring the bell!

There's no Lutherans like Old Lutherans if you tell me it's true

Confessing your sins is just so freeing!

Kneeling up at the communion rail.

Smiling as you see your sins go fleeing

although the sermon moves like a snail.

There's no Lutherans like Old Lutherans they smile when they are blue.

Even in November when the sun's so low

and you can actually see moss grow¹

still you wouldn't change it for a sack of gold.

This is my grandfather's church.

This is most certainly true!

1Other ancient authorities read: “the sidewalk's slippery and white with snow”

You Can't Get a Man with a Nun (from the musical “Martin Get Your Nun”)

O my mother was frightened by religion they say

that's why I gave the convent a shot!

I'd be out in the abbey and be silent all day

but now tell me what have I got?

I prayed with my sisters

that I could find a mister

and the preacher could make us one.

But my life's not so simple

because I wear a wimple.

No, you can't get a man with a nun.

When out in the garden

I pray all day for pardon

When my rosary is all done.

But God put men with women,

I do not think that's sinnin'

No, you can't get a man with a nun.

With a nun. With a nun, Oh you can't get a man with a nun.

If I met a blacksmith

someone to share my life with

I would have a ring of gold on.

So I'm getting kind of sick-ta

of Blessed Benedicta.

No, you can't get a man with a nun.

A man can be funny

and cuddle like a bunny

with his wife that he thinks is fun.

But I can't be a rabbit

while stuck here in this habit.

No, you can't get a man with a nun.

If I met a herder

is it worse than murder

to be Eve for my own Adam?

But I cain't fetch his apple

while locked up in the chapel.

No, you can't get a man with a nun.

With a nun. With a nun, Oh you can't get a man with a nun.

If I was a Missus

who got some hugs and kisses

I'd be true to my dearest one.

But you cain't get a mister

when he calls you sister

No, you can't get a man with a nun.

If I met a baker

or met a candlemaker

We would build a home out of love.

How will I find my Darrel

In a pickle barrel.

No, you can't get a man with a nun.

Though I'm like a pistol

I still can read my missal

I can be a wife like Sarah.

How will I find Prince Charmin'

While at the convent farmin'

'Cuz no fool would dare tool

With the Benedict Rule.

No, you can't get a man with a nun.

Hymns for November 2011

2011-09-19T22:15:00.001-07:00

All Saints' Sunday (6 November 2011)

For All the Saints LSB 677

Jerusalem the Golden TLH 613 (!)

Saints, See the Cloud of Witnesses LSB 667

Behold a Host LSB 676

Oh, What their Joy LSB 675

Second Last Sunday of the Church Year (13 November 2011) (Matins)

Lord, Enthroned in Heav'nly Splendor LSB 534
Lo! He Comes with Clouds Descending LSB 336
The Day is Surely Drawing Near LSB 508
O God, Our Help in Ages Past LSB 733

Last Sunday of the Church Year (20 November 2011)Come, Thou Bright and Morning Star LSB 872
Wake, Awake, for Night is Flying LSB 516
The Bridegroom Soon will Call Us LSB 514
Thine the amen, Thine the Praise LSB 680
Crown Him with Many Crowns LSB 525

First Sunday of Advent (27 November 2011)

The Advent of our King (LSB 331)
O Lord, How Shall I Meet You (LSB 334)
Lift up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates (LSB 340)
O Bride of Christ, Rejoice (LSB 335)

Hymns for October 2011

2011-09-19T21:31:00.000-07:00

2 October 2011 (New Member Reception)

All who believe and are baptized (LSB 601)

Have no fear, little flock (LSB 735)

A mighty fortress is our God (LSB 656)
Sing praise to God, the highest good (LSB 819)

Children of the heav'nly Father (LSB 725)

9 October 2011 (Confirmation) ( ! Divine Service Setting 4 ! )

Thy Strong Word (LSB 578)

Let Me Be Thine Forever (LSB 689)

Soul, Adorn Thyself with Gladness (LSB 636

God's own child, I gladly say it (LSB 594)

16 October 2011

The Church's one foundation (LSB 644)

Seek where you may to find a way (LSB 557)

I come, O Savior, to Thy table (LSB 618)
Son of God, eternal Savior (LSB 842)

23 October 2011 (Prayer and Preaching)

All hail the pow'r of Jesus' name (LSB 549)

One thing's needful; Lord, this treasure (LSB 536)
Lord, Thee I love with all my heart (LSB 708)

Abide, O dearest Jesus (LSB 919)

30 October 2011 (Reformation Sunday, Divine Service Setting 4)

The Lord my God be Praised (LSB 794)

By Grace I'm Saved (LSB 566)

Salvation unto Us has come (LSB 555)

A Mighty Fortress (LSB 656)

Hymns for 25 September 2011, 14th Sunday after Trinity

2011-09-19T19:28:00.001-07:00

Father, we praise Thee (LSB 875)
Jesus, grant that balm and healing (LSB 421)

Praise the One who breaks the darkness (LSB 849)

Praise, my soul, the King of heaven (LSB 793)

Hymns for 18 Sept 2011

2011-09-13T09:05:00.001-07:00

Praise to the Lord, the Almighty (LSB 790)

Lord of glory, You have bought us (LSB 851)

If God Himself be for me (LSB 724)

Lord, Thee I love with all my heart (LSB 708)

Let us ever walk with Jesus (LSB 685)

Hymns for 11 September 2011, the 12th Sunday after Trinity

2011-09-07T10:17:00.001-07:00

O Holy Spirit, enter in LSB 913

Come, Thou Fount of ev’ry blessing LSB 686

Oh, for a thousand tongues to sing LSB 528

Crown Him with Many Crowns LSB 525

Hymns for 1 September 2011, the Eleventh Sunday after Trinity

2011-08-31T12:36:00.001-07:00

Chief of sinners though I be LSB 611

Baptismal Waters Cover Me LSB 616

Let all Mortal Flesh Keep Silence LSB 621

Christ, the Life of all the living LSB 420

In God, my faithful God LSB 745

Memory assignment for Wed 8/23

2011-08-23T12:05:00.000-07:00

Holy Baptism parts 1 and 2

First:

What is Baptism?

Which is that Word of God?

Second:

What Benefits does baptism Give?

Which are these words and promises of God?

Memory Assignment for Thursday 8/11

2011-08-10T18:21:00.001-07:00

Finish any remaining work on the First Article of the Creed and the Meaning.

And memorize Bible Verse #340, 1 Peter 5:8-9

Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. ⁹ Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

Catechism day 4 assignment for Monday

2011-08-04T12:52:00.001-07:00

9^th and 10^th Commandments

See y’all in Church on Sunday.

Pastor+

Catechism Memory assignment for Thursday

2011-08-03T14:13:00.001-07:00

We’re keeping up the pace and doing a lot of these while they are still short and easy. Since the catechumens proved that 4 commandments a day is easy:

Tomorrow’s Assignment is:

5^th Commandment

6^th Commandment

7^th Commandment and

8^th Commandment

Plus second and third year students memorize Bible Verse numbers:

132 (Romans 3:22-23) and

169 (Ephesians 4:32)

The extra fast pace will lighten the load when we get to the Big Ones next week!

Today we covered the 4^th and 5^th Commandments. Ask your child what they learned. (After all, what parent WOULDN’T want to ask what their child learned about the 4^th Commandment?)

God Bless you this night,

Pastor+

Day 2 summary and memory work assignments

2011-08-02T12:11:00.000-07:00

Psalm 1 worked pretty well. Did the King James Language throw anyone off? Did it make it easier?

Since these next ones are so easy, we are doing a lot for tomorrow:

1^st Commandment

2^nd Commandment

3^rd Commandment

4^th Commandment

and meanings

Also (since you learned all of that last year) 2^nd and 3^rd year catechumens can also learn:

Psalm 50:15

Call upon me in the day of trouble;
I will deliver you, and you will honor me.

Today we studied the 2^nd and 3^rd commandments. We also added The Tree of Life for an additional hymn.

I look forward to tomorrow as well,

Pastor+

First day!

2011-08-01T12:44:00.001-07:00

A good start to our work!

Tonight’s memory assignment is Psalm 1:

Psalm 1:1 Blessed is the man that

walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly,

nor standeth in the way of sinners,

nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD;

and in his law doth he meditate day and night.

3 And he shall be like a tree

planted by the rivers of water,

that bringeth forth his fruit in his season;

his leaf also shall not wither;

and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

4 The ungodly are not so:

but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.

5 Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment,

nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.

6 For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous:

but the way of the ungodly shall perish.

This is a big assignment, but it will prime the pump for learning and make all the further memory work easier. Work hard tonight and it will pay off.

Also, for those of you who like to sing, our hymns this week are:

Salvation unto Us is Come

Come Holy Ghost, God and Lord

and The Tree of Life

God willing it I will see all tomorrow, rested, ready and reciting!

Pastor+

Hymns for August Historic Trinity 7, 8, 9 and 10

2011-07-25T19:36:00.001-07:00

All Hymns from Lutheran Service Book (LSB) unless otherwise noted.

7 August 2011, the Seventh Sunday after Trinity (Historic)

815 All Praise to Thee for Thou, O King Divine

642 O Living Bread from Heaven

638 Eat This Bread

625 Lord Jesus Christ, Thou Living Bread

918 Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer

14 August 2011, the Eighth Sunday after Trinity (Historic)

644 The Church's one Foundation

663 Rise my Soul to Watch and Pray

658 Preserve your Word, O Savior

668 Rise! To Arms! With Prayer Employ You

21 August 2011, the Ninth Sunday after Trinity (Historic)

497 Come Holy Ghost God and Lord

730 What Is the World to Me

556 Dear Christians One and All Rejoice

924 Lord Dismiss us With Your Blessing

28 August 2011 the Tenth Sunday after Trinity

915 Today Your Mercy Calls us

583 God has Spoken by His Prophets

563 Jesus Thy Blood and Righteousness

661 The Son of God Goes Forth to War

How to Read Your Bible: Choosing a Bible Translation

2011-07-21T11:22:00.000-07:00

and getting the most out of the one you use. Analysis of approaches to Bible Translations with particular focus on KJV/NKJV vs. modern translations, formal equivalence vs. dynamic equivalence, and a sampling of translations including, NIV, ESV, NKJV, HCSB, NLT and The Message.

Newsflash: Rob Bell may actually be Richard Dawkins!

2011-07-13T10:36:00.000-07:00

Photographic "evidence" below:

ht: Ship of Fools

When False Doctrine Steers Christian Practice

2011-07-12T10:44:00.000-07:00

Good Old Fashioned, Small Town Entrepreneurial Spirit

2011-07-11T10:29:00.000-07:00

Found pasted to the back of a picture frame.

Liturgical Catechesis: Why do we start the service with Confession and Absolution?

2011-06-28T10:33:00.000-07:00

You are about to encounter God. Are you ready?

In our casual society we have become casual about nearly everything – even approaching God. I am not talking about the way that we dress for church (although that reflects some of the same thinking) but I am talking about how we prepare ourselves and comport ourselves to meet God.

Certainly there is little casual about encountering God in the scriptures:

Now Moses was keeping the flock of his father-in-law, Jethro, the priest of Midian, and he led his flock to the west side of the wilderness and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. And the angel of the LORD appeared to him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush. He looked, and behold, the bush was burning, yet it was not consumed. And Moses said, "I will turn aside to see this great sight, why the bush is not burned." When the LORD saw that he turned aside to see, God called to him out of the bush, "Moses, Moses!" And he said, "Here I am." Then he said, "Do not come near; take your sandals off your feet, for the place on which you are standing is holy ground." And he said, "I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob." And Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look at God. (Exodus 3:1-6)

The reaction was not Moses' alone:

Now when all the people saw the thunder and the flashes of lightning and the sound of the trumpet and the mountain smoking, the people were afraid and trembled, and they stood far off and said to Moses, “You speak to us, and we will listen; but do not let God speak to us, lest we die.” Moses said to the people, “Do not fear, for God has come to test you, that the fear of him may be before you, that you may not sin.” The people stood far off, while Moses drew near to the thick darkness where God was. (Exodus 20:18-21)

But Jesus, you may say, was always easily approachable by both his disciples and even gentiles. He walked with his disciples in a state of humiliation in which he did not show the fullness of his Deity, nor did he freely use all his divine power. Now He is ascended and has reclaimed his heavenly throne. In fullness of glory He now shows himself entirely to be Who He is: God most high. We see what it is like to see the most high God in the book of Revelation:

Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war. His eyes are like a flame of fire, and on his head are many diadems, and he has a name written that no one knows but himself. He is clothed in a robe dipped in blood, and the name by which he is called is The Word of God. And the armies of heaven, arrayed in fine linen, white and pure, were following him on white horses. From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron. He will tread the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty. On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords.. On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords. (Revelation 19:11-16)

The writer to the Hebrews explains our situation:

For you have not come to what may be touched, a blazing fire and darkness and gloom and a tempest and the sound of a trumpet and a voice whose words made the hearers beg that no further messages be spoken to them. For they could not endure the order that was given, "If even a beast touches the mountain, it shall be stoned." Indeed, so terrifying was the sight that Moses said, "I tremble with fear." But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to innumerable angels in festal gathering, and to the assembly of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven, and to God, the judge of all, and to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.

See that you do not refuse him who is speaking. For if they did not escape when they refused him who warned them on earth, much less will we escape if we reject him who warns from heaven. At that time his voice shook the earth, but now he has promised, "Yet once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens." This phrase, "Yet once more," indicates the removal of things that are shaken—that is, things that have been made—in order that the things that cannot be shaken may remain. Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire. (Hebrews 12:18-29)

So it is no surprise that Isaiah, seeing God, despairs, “Woe is me! For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts!” (Isaiah 6:5.) Are we holier than Isaiah or Moses? That is why we confess our sins at the beginning of our worship service. We need the burning coal of the absolution pass from the pastor's lips to ours to cleanse us and make us ready to speak to the most high (See Isaiah 6:6-7).

The good news is that not only has Jesus offered forgiveness for His sake, but he has given the authority and command that the sins of the penitent must be forgiven. “And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld." (John 20:22-23.)

That word of forgiveness makes us ready and bold to approach the very throne of God, knowing we are forgiven for Jesus' sake.

Pastor JDPalm+

Hymns for July 2011

2011-06-28T10:10:00.001-07:00

3 July 2011, 2^nd Sunday after Trinity

One thing’s needful; Lord, this treasure LSB 536

A multitude comes from the east and the west LSB 510

Thine the amen, Thine the praise LSB 680

Christ Jesus lay in death’s strong bands LSB 458

O Lord, we praise Thee LSB 617

10 July 2011 3^rd Sunday after Trinity

Just as I am, without one plea LSB 570

Jesus sinners doth receive LSB 609

Chief of sinners though I be LSB 611

God’s own child, I gladly say it LSB 594

17 July 2011 4^th Sunday after Trinity

Sing praise to God, the highest good LSB 819

"Forgive our sins as we forgive" LSB 843

Jesus sinners doth receive LSB 609

O God, my faithful God LSB 696

Lord of glory, You have bought us LSB 851

24 July 2011 5^th Sunday After Trinity

Thy strong word did cleave the darkness LSB 578

How clear is our vocation, Lord LSB 853

"Come, follow Me," the Savior spake LSB 688

My faith looks up to Thee LSB 702

31 July 2011 6^th Sunday after Trinity

Baptized into Your name most holy LSB 590

All mankind fell in Adam’s fall LSB 562

I Come, O Savior, to Thy Table LSB 618

Jesus, Thy blood and righteousness LSB 563

Savior, Again to Thy Dear Name We Raise LSB 917

An E-mail question: Why would God create a world where he knew people would sin and go to hell?

2011-06-02T12:19:00.000-07:00

Hi Pastor Palm,

I'm often think about the following question and I haven't been able to come up with a good answer.

Why would God have even created a world where he knew people would sin and therefore end up in hell? If he is all knowing and knew this would happen, why did he create people in the first place? Aren't some people doomed to fail? After all, he had the knowledge to realize that some people would end up in hell. But if he hadn't created them they wouldn't suffer?

Any help you could give me would be much appreciated! Thanks for your time.

Hi,

Thanks for writing your question. I can assure you this first. You are not the only one to have asked this question. I believe that most Christians wonder this at some time or another. I am not sure that the answer that I give you is the best and it is certainly not the most authoritative answer you can be given, but it is how I have come to understand it for myself.

When you look at the question of Why God would create a world he knew would be destroyed by sin and Why God would create people knowing that some would be cut off from Him forever in hell I think we need to look at the effect of the alternative. Since God knew that this would happen, He also knew that there would be some benefit and good to come out of it worth all the trouble. Remember that God not only knew that people would sin and some would go to hell, but He also knew that if He created this world and the people in it, His own Son would have to suffer hell and die to redeem it. The moment he took up the task of creation, He had already committed Himself to the cross, knowing that man would sin.

Why would He do it? Certainly he knew the cost. The one necessary conclusion is this: God created a world that he knew would be destroyed by sin because He loves you so much. The alternative (not creating the world) would mean that you would never exist. God so wanted you to live with Him eternally in heaven that he went through with creation. Did He know what this would mean? Yes, he knew that some would suffer hell, and that His own Son would likewise suffer for all of man’s sin, but I am convinced that if you were the only person in the world that he would rescue for heaven, he would still have gone through it all for you.

By the way, this also helps us understand why Christ is “delayed” in returning, and why God does not simply destroy everything and start fresh. He patiently waits for every soul to be redeemed who will believe. He would not lose one, even though the cost is great.

I also struggled with this question for a long time, but recognizing the depth of God’s love for His redeemed people, the Church, helped me see the beauty and wonder of God’s grace.

I would love to talk more with you some time. If you have more questions I am glad to answer as best I can.

Pastor Palm+

Hymns for June 2011

2011-05-24T11:02:00.001-07:00

Ascension 2 June 2011

A hymn of glory let us sing LSB 493
Up through endless ranks of angels LSB 491
On Christ’s ascension I now build LSB 492

5 June 2011 Sunday after the Ascension

Also known as the 7th Sunday of Easter

Come, We that Love the Lord LSB 669

Rise, my soul, to watch and pray LSB 663

Built on the Rock LSB 645

If God Himself Be for Me LSB 724

Lord Keep Us Steadfast In Your Word LSB 655

Pentecost Sunday, 12 June 2011

Come, Holy Ghost, God and Lord LSB 497

Hail thee, festival day LSB 489 (Choir, ss. 2,4,6)

Choir: Brother James’ Air (Offering)

O Holy Spirit, enter in LSB 913

Thy Strong Word LSB 598

Lift High the Cross LSB 837

Trinity Sunday 19 June 2011

I Bind Unto Myself Today LSB 604

Choir: God So Loved the World

We All Believe in One True God LSB 954

Holy, Holy Holy LSB 507

Holy God We Praise Your Name LSB 940

Choir: A Choral Benediction

Trinity 1, 26 June 2011

Praise the Almighty LSB 797

To God the Holy Spirit Let us Pray LSB 768

Oh, what their joy and their glory must be LSB 675

Hymns for 5 June 2011 Sunday after the Ascension

2011-05-18T12:05:00.000-07:00

Also known as the 7^th Sunday of Easter

Come, We that Love the Lord LSB 669

Rise, my soul, to watch and pray LSB 663

Built on the Rock LSB 645

If God Himself Be for Me LSB 724

Lord Keep Us Steadfast In Your Word LSB 655

Hymns for Ascension 2 June 2011

2011-05-18T11:13:00.000-07:00

A hymn of glory let us sing LSB 493
Up through endless ranks of angels LSB 491
On Christ’s ascension I now build LSB 492

The Other-than-us of God

2011-05-18T09:25:00.000-07:00

In the Thursday bible class the pastor was teaching us a very hard lesson about what our attitude should be about those that have sinned greatly against their fellow man. It is so easy to take joy in the down fall or punishment of a murderer because of what he has done. But is this what we are called to do? Does God have an other-than-us attitude toward those that sin. As always let us go to the Word for our answer and then with the help of the Spirit try to accept God's way of dealing with sinners.

First of all, God is not bashful about telling us that indeed He is different than us. In Isaiah we read ( KJV) For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. ( KJV) For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. With these verses in mind, let us first took at how lost mankind feels about those who oppose them, then how God feels about this group of people, and finally what God tells us what we are to do.

First mankind: David was worried that if anything happened to him then his enemies would rejoice, so he prays (-.3 KJV) Consider and hear me, 0 LORD my God: lighten mine eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death; ( KJV) Lest mine enemy say, I have prevailed against him; and those that trouble me rejoice when I am moved. David knew how sinful man acted and went to God for help. In Judges we are told how a whole nation acted when Samson was delivered unto the Philistines. ( KJV) Then the lords of the Philistines gathered them together for to offer a great sacrifice unto Dagon their god, and to rejoice: for they said, Our god hath delivered Samson our enemy into our hand. Samson's misfortune gave the Philistines a reason to rejoice.

Second God: In the Old Testament God tells Ezekiel : (-.11 KJV) Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, 0 house of Israel? Notice that in this one verse, God is not satisfied to ask Israel to turn from their evil ways only one time, but He ask them two times.

And finally what does God tell us to do and not to do: The Proverbs tell us ( KJV) Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth: ( KJV) Lest the LORD see it, and it displease him, and he turn away his wrath from him. It seems that our rejoicing in our enemies fall interferes with God's dealing with that enemy. Then, God the Son challenges us to a higher standard as we read in Matthew. ( KJV) Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbor, and hate thine enemy. ( KJV) But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; ( KJV) That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. ( KJV) For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? ( KJV) And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so? ( KJV) Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. Yes we are challenged to be different than our natural inclination and be more like Him who is always and totally other-than-us in His person and actions.

2011 Holy Week Services at Concordia Lutheran Church, Oak Harbor WA

2011-04-20T10:31:00.000-07:00

6:30 pm Wednesday, 20 April 2011: Stations of the Cross
6:30 pm Thursday, 21 April 2011: Maundy Thursday
7:00 pm Friday, 22 April 2011: Good Friday Tenebrae
8:00 pm Saturday 23 April 2011: Easter Vigil
8:30 am Sunday 24 April 2011: Easter Breakfast
10:00 am Sunday 24 April 2011: Easter Worship

Concordia Lutheran Church is located at the intersection of N Oak Harbor St and 7th Ave NW (2 blocks West of OfficeMax)
590 N Oak Harbor St Oak Harbor WA 98277.

Concordia Lutheran Church, Oak Harbor WA is a congregation of the Lutheran Church -- Missouri Synod (LCMS).

Pull out the 128' Erdbeben stops for Easter!

2011-04-20T09:53:00.000-07:00

The 128' Erdbeben pipes ("Earthquake")on our organ is used on rare occasions.

That's why.

Hymns for Maundy Thursday, 21 April 2011

2011-04-06T11:49:00.001-07:00

“On My Heart Imprint Your Image” LSB 422

“Jesus Christ our Blessed Savior” ss. 1-7 LSB 627
The Sermon

“Jesus Christ our Blessed Savior” ss. 8-10 LSB 627

The Death of Jesus Christ, Our Lord LSB 634

Liturgical Abuse: A case against writing creative responses for worship

2011-04-06T10:19:00.001-07:00

Or “Poetry works great for hymns, but please don’t make me read poetry in worship”

I was looking through an old file of Holy Week services and found this from a Maundy Thursday service. (I’ll not mention the pastor or congregation involved to protect the guilty.) Read it aloud for full effect:

Left Side: “Forgive our sins as we forgive,”
You taught us, Lord, to pray,
But You alone can grant us grace
To live the words we say.

Right Side: How can Your pardon reach and bless
The unforgiving heart
That broods on wrongs and will not let
Old bitterness depart?

The message is not heretical, but the sing-song poetry trivializes it. The quality of the poetry reminds me of the dreck I was required to recite for a 3^rd grade Halloween program.

Reading poetry well is a difficult skill.

Forcing synchronized poetry reading is liturgical abuse.

Hymns for Palm Sunday, 17 April 2011

2011-04-06T09:43:00.001-07:00

All glory, laud, and honor LSB 442

No tramp of soldiers’ marching feet LSB 444

Lift high the cross LSB 837

Hosanna, loud hosanna LSB 443

Ride on, ride on in majesty LSB 441

Hymns for 10 April 2010, 5th Sunday in Lent (Judica)

2011-03-30T09:37:00.001-07:00

Let us ever walk with Jesus LSB 685

My song is love unknown LSB 430

A Lamb goes uncomplaining forth LSB 438

“I am Jesus’ Little Lamb” LSB 740 (Mite Ingathering Hymn)

Sing, my tongue, the glorious battle LSB 454

Hymns for 3 April 2011, The Fourth Sunday of Lent (Laetare)

2011-03-28T09:25:00.001-07:00

Christ, the Life of all the living LSB 420

Jesus, priceless treasure LSB 743

The Church’s one foundation LSB 644

O living Bread from heaven LSB 642

Sent forth By God’s Blessing LSB 643

Hymns for the 3rd Sunday of Lent, 27 March 2011

2011-03-22T11:47:00.001-07:00

Sunday School Children Sing “On my Heart Imprint Your Image”

God’s own child, I gladly say it LSB 594

Lord of our life and God of our salvation LSB 659

My Soul Rejoices LSB 933 (replacing the New Testament Canticle)

Jesus has come and brings pleasure eternal LSB 533

The Son of David is our Champion

2011-03-17T12:29:00.000-07:00

You may have noticed the box under the altar. That’s where our Alleluia is buried. You see, Alleluia is our song of joy, and nowhere is our joy more complete then when the victory is won.

Sometimes a whole army was represented in battle by a single warrior, set in battle against another. In this way, a whole army’s victory or defeat could be accomplished by one man. Goliath of Gath was the champion of the Philistines.

And there came out from the camp of the Philistines a champion named Goliath of Gath, whose height was six cubits and a span. He had a helmet of bronze on his head, and he was armed with a coat of mail, and the weight of the coat was five thousand shekels of bronze. And he had bronze armor on his legs, and a javelin of bronze slung between his shoulders. The shaft of his spear was like a weaver’s beam, and his spear’s head weighed six hundred shekels of iron. And his shield-bearer went before him. He stood and shouted to the ranks of Israel, “Why have you come out to draw up for battle? Am I not a Philistine, and are you not servants of Saul? Choose a man for yourselves, and let him come down to me. If he is able to fight with me and kill me, then we will be your servants. But if I prevail against him and kill him, then you shall be our servants and serve us.” And the Philistine said, “I defy the ranks of Israel this day. Give me a man, that we may fight together.” When Saul and all Israel heard these words of the Philistine, they were dismayed and greatly afraid. 1 Samuel 17:4-11 ESV

The defiant taunts of the enemy had disheartened the whole army of Israel None from Saul’s army dared to battle one on one against this brute. None, that is, until young David came bringing food for his brothers as they served in Israel’s army. David was determined to silence the blasphemies and curses shouted by the giant. He refused the kings armor and weapon, and trusted in the Lord. He took only his staff, sling and five stones and went to meet Goliath.

And the Philistine said to David, “Am I a dog, that you come to me with sticks?” And the Philistine cursed David by his gods. v. 43

But with one stone, the son of Jesse laid low the Philistine, and cut off his head using Goliath’s own sword.

Jesus is the champion sent by God to fight for us against the enemies we were powerless to resist: sin, death and the devil. As the army of Israel could not sing songs of victory or cry out shouts of joy as long as their enemy taunted them, we also cannot sing our Alleluias of joy while Satan taunts us. The unconquered champion of hell can overpower any man except God’s own champion. Jesus absorbed the taunts and curses of the enemy as he went to do battle on the cross, carrying two sticks of the cross to the battle field of that rock called Golgotha. There, what looked like sure and disastrous defeat was changed to victory, when Jesus seized the foe’s sword of death and used His own death to decapitate the enemy. Jesus won the battle by the hurling of one stone – the stone that blocked the entrance to the tomb. Jesus resurrection is complete victory.

We are the army of Christ. Helpless to battle the great foe, our Champion, the Son of David fought for us. On Easter, once again, return our shouts of victory and our songs of Alleluia.

Rejoice with me in Christ’s victory.

Hymns for 20 March 2011, the Second Sunday in Lent

2011-03-17T10:01:00.000-07:00

Hear us, Father, when we pray LSB 773

When in the hour of deepest need LSB 615

What a Friend we have in Jesus LSB770

I bind unto myself today LSB 604

Evening and morning LSB 726

Hymns for 1st Sunday of Lent, 13 March 2011

2011-03-09T09:45:00.001-08:00

The tree of life with ev’ry good LSB 561

A mighty fortress is our God LSB 656

Sing, my tongue, the glorious battle LSB 454

Hymns for 6 March 2010 Quinquagesima

2011-03-03T09:28:00.001-08:00

Father most holy, merciful and tender LSB 504)

Choir sings: “Thanks Be to You, O Lord” by George F. Handel (Before OT reading)

Let us ever walk with Jesus LSB 685

My song is love unknown LSB 430

Praise to the Lord, the Almighty LSB 790

Alleluia, song of gladness LSB 417 (Choir sings ss. 1,3, Congregation ss. 2,4)

Hymns for 20 February 2011 Septuagesima Sunday

2011-02-16T12:05:00.001-08:00

Rock of ages, cleft for me LSB 761

The Tree of Life LSB 561

Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise LSB 802

Jesus, Thy Blood and Righteousness LSB 563

Guide me, O Thou great Redeemer LSB 918

Not unarmed

2011-02-03T11:58:00.000-08:00

from World Magazine:

Thirteen-year-old Walter Eikrem was walking home from school in the Norwegian town of Rakkestad when he encountered a pack of wolves, four to be precise. All alone in the sloping hills between school and his farmhouse, Walter remembered his mother's warning never to run away from wild animals, then realized he was not defenseless. Yanking out his earbuds, he blared Creed's Christian rock anthem "Overcome" from his cell phone, waved his arms, and yelled along with the music. The wolves turned and scampered the other way.

Hymns for 6 February 2010 the 5th Sunday after Epiphany

2011-02-01T16:04:00.001-08:00

Lutheran Service Book Divine Service Setting Three

837 Lift High the Cross

663 Rise my Soul to Watch and Pray

761 Rock of Ages

861 Christ be my Leader

685 Let us Ever Walk with Jesus

921 On What has Now been Sown

Is music neutral? Hollywood definitely doesn't think so.

2011-01-26T14:13:00.000-08:00

One thought current among church leaders is that music is only an neutral vessel for carrying words. One tune is as good as another. One instrumentation is as good as another. It is only a matter of preference. If that is the case, though, why do movie directors carefully select and even have custom composed music for their films. Wouldn't anything off the shelf be fine?

Consider this scene from the movie The Matrix. In this scene Neo goes to a nightclub where he first meets Trinity. Take note of the music and the mood set by the background music. (Content Warning: Language)

Having observed that click here to see the same scene in which someone has creatively edited different music into the scene. (Same Content Warning Applies)

Finally, click here to see a different scene from The Matrix with even more unlikely background music. (Content Warning: Gratuitous Violence, Language)

Then tell me, is music a neutral vessel, or does it carry a message? What should this tell us about our selection of music for the Divine Service?

Hymns for 30 January 2011, 4th Sunday after Epiphany

2011-01-25T11:26:00.001-08:00

Divine Service Setting 3 (Lutheran Service Book)

Blessed Jesus, at Your Word LSB 904

O Love, How Deep, How Broad, How High LSB 544

Jesus, Savior, Pilot Me LSB 715

Children of the Heavenly Father LSB 725

In Thee is Gladness LSB 818

Eternal Father, Strong to Save LSB 717 (using original stanzas for ss. 2-3 on facing page)

Kenneth Korby Sermon: the Righteous Live by Faith

2011-01-20T12:00:00.000-08:00

Preached at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, St. Paul, Minnesota on 25 October 1992 for the Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost.

Doc 20110117124707

Hymns for 23 January 2011, the 3rd Sunday after Epiphany

2011-01-20T09:06:00.001-08:00

Service of Prayer and Preaching

Come, Thou bright and Morning Star (LSB 872)
All Christians who have been baptized (LSB 596)
From God the Father, virgin-born (LSB 401)

The Counterstrike Begins

2011-01-19T10:21:00.000-08:00

16 January 2011
Marriage and the Wedding Feast at Cana

Why did Jesus have to be Baptized?

2011-01-18T10:12:00.000-08:00

The Baptism of our Lord, 9 January 2011

Now if the District Presidents will Follow this Example

2011-01-17T10:01:00.000-08:00

Via Pr. T. Messer at Abide in My Word

Installation of PASTOR Harrison

Last Sunday (Jan. 9), LCMS President Rev. Matthew C. Harrison was installed as Assistant Pastor at Village Lutheran Church in Ladue, MO. This marks the first time in several generations that the LCMS President has been called to serve a congregation as pastor. Pr. Paul McCain, who was among the clergy participating in the Installation Service, shared some thoughts here about the occasion, including something Pr. Harrison said to him after the Service: "The closer the Synod president is to bedpans, the better." I concur with Pr. McCain that there is a lot of wisdom in that statement, and I believe our synod is very blessed to have a leader such as Pastor Harrison at the helm.

District Presidents, take note! Pastoral leadership should not be severed from the Office of the Ministry. Thank you Pastor Harrison.

Worst Praise Song Ever Nominee -- Why Aping Secular Music is a Bad Idea

2011-01-13T12:05:00.001-08:00

Nooooooo!!

Jesus is a Cool Dude
(To the tune of "We Will Rock You")

Jesus is a cool dude,
40 days with no food,
He died on the cross but that's O.K.
He's got love on his face,
Full of grace!
He's kickin' that devil all over the place!
Singin', We will, we will
Praise him WOO, praise him WOO (2x)

Hymns for 2nd Sunday After Epiphany

2011-01-13T09:24:00.001-08:00

Lutheran Service Book One Year Series

Divine Service Setting One

Songs of thankfulness and praise LSB 394

The only Son from heaven LSB 402

O Morning Star, how fair and bright LSB 395

At the Lamb’s high feast we sing LSB 633

Come, join in Cana’s feast LSB 408

Maybe some CCM writers are getting it?

2011-01-09T05:28:00.000-08:00

Kudos to Matt Redman for this reflection about the implications of all the "Jesus is my Boyfriend" praise songs out there. I don't follow his career, by any means, but perhaps this bodes well for his more recent music.

Yet another Nominee for Worst Praise Song

2011-01-07T10:06:00.000-08:00

First, let me give due compliments to the song's author, Andy Park. He uses Biblical language in his second verse. Unfortunately, when the references to 1 Corinthians 9 and Hebrews 12 are set in the context of a me-centered, "Jesus is my Boyfriend" song it makes it sound rather Pelagian.

Second, the premise that we can meet Jesus and get to know Him better by meeting Him in a secret, quiet place is unbiblical. Jesus does not promise to come to us alone, but in the assembly of the believers. He promises to be with His Church through the Word proclaimed, Baptism and the Lord's Supper. This is the same problem as the old time religion song, "In the Garden." I love to garden and to be outdoors, but Jesus has not promised to meet me there. From nature I can see that God exists, but I can never learn that Jesus is my Savior from walking in the garden, no matter how lovely. Faith must come through the proclamation of the Word of God.

“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” But not all the Israelites accepted the good news. For Isaiah says, “Lord, who has believed our message?” Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ. Romans 10:13-17

Jesus said to [Thomas], “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” John 20:29 ESV

Third, the song is definitely on the creepier side of the "Jesus is my Boyfriend" genre. When I was in Junior High School the principal banned certain songs from school dances for being too suggestive. This song might have made the list.

What can you know about sheep?

2011-01-05T09:50:00.000-08:00

From Head Heart Hand by David Murray:

Throughout Scripture, sinners in general, and God’s people in particular, are described as sheep. And those God sends to lead them are equally frequently called shepherds. Today we will look at the character of the sheep, and tomorrow at the character of the shepherd. We start with the sheep because the key to leading as a shepherd is in understanding the nature of sheep.
I pastored for 12 years in the Scottish Highlands. During that time, I was surrounded by sheep: sheep on the roads, sheep on the mountains, sheep on the beeches, sheep in my yard. O, yes, and sometimes sheep in the shepherds' fields. My study on the Isle of Lewis was 12 inches away from a field full of sheep. Sometimes at night I would look up from my computer and see many pairs of luminous green eyes staring at me through my window! I got to know sheep pretty well. What did I learn?

1. Sheep are foolish
I don’t know what sheep would score in an animal IQ, but I think they would be close to the bottom of the scale. They seem to only know how to do one thing well – eat grass (and produce more grass-eating sheep).

It's possible to know little, yet not be foolish; but not if you are a sheep. They are so irrational. You watch them as they pause in front of a stream. They know they can’t jump it or swim it. So what do they do? They jump in anyway!
2. Sheep are slow to learn
Every shepherd will tell you countless stories about how sheep can be taught a very painful lesson, and yet fail to learn the painful lesson. A sheep may get caught in barbed wire trying to break through a fence. And the next day it will try it again, and again,…

Read the other 10 items here.

Hymns for 9 January 2010, The Baptism of our Lord

2011-01-04T11:03:00.001-08:00

I bind unto myself today LSB 604

To Jordan came the Christ, our Lord LSB 406, ss. 1-4 before sermon, ss. 5-7 after sermon

Jesus, Priceless Treasure LSB 743 Mite Ingathering Hymn

God’s own child, I gladly say it LSB 594

Jesus' Genealogies Reconciled (video)

2011-01-03T10:08:00.000-08:00

Several proposals have been made to reconcile the genealogies of Jesus given in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. Using information from the fourth century historian Eusebius, this video explains how levirate marriage and remarriage explain the difference between the two and show how God directed events to get around the curse on Jeconiah.

Hymns for 2 January, the Second Sunday after Christmas

2010-12-30T09:39:00.001-08:00

O sing of Christ, whose birth made known LSB 362

From east to west LSB 385

The star proclaims the King is here LSB 399

Let All Together Praise the Lord LSB 389

Let our gladness have no end LSB 381

Hymns for 26 December 2010, St. Stephen, Martyr

2010-12-20T12:01:00.001-08:00

O Sing of Christ 362

Come, Your Hearts and Voices Raising 375

By All Thy Saints in Warfare 517, ss, 1, 7, 3

See Amid the Winter Snow 373

2010 Christmas Services at Concordia Lutheran Church, Oak Harbor WA

2010-12-20T11:03:00.001-08:00

For updates visit ConcordiaLutheranWhidbey.org

Join us for Christmas this year at Concordia. Our services are as follows:

7 pm Christmas Eve Children’s Program, Lessons and Carols

11 pm Christmas Midnight Candlelight Worship (with Holy Communion)

10 am Christmas Day Worship with Holy Communion

Below are the hymns (Lutheran Service Book) for the services:

Christmas Eve 7 pm

363 Silent Night

364 Away in a Manger

--- While By our Sheep

--- We Three Kings

--- The First Noel

358 From Heaven Above

378 Break Forth O Beauteous Heavenly Light

374 Gentle Mary Laid Her Child

Choir Ding Dong Merrily on High

368 Angels We Have Heard on High

387 Joy to the World

Christmas Midnight 11 pm

384 Of the Father’s Love Begotten

360 All My Heart this Night Rejoices

370 What Child is This

366 It Came Upon a Midnight Clear

380 Hark! The Herald Angel Sings

393 Infant Holy, Infant Lowly

621 Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence

363 Silent Night

Christmas Day 10 am

386 Now Sing We Now Rejoice

372 O Jesus Christ, Thy Manger is

383 A Great and Mighty Wonder

376 Once in Royal David’s City

367 Angels from the Realms of Glory

387 Joy to the World

Hymns for 19 December 2010, Advent 4 (corrected)

2010-12-16T09:39:00.001-08:00

O Come All Ye Faithful (LSB 379)
----Sunday School st. 1, Congregation ss. 2-4
Break Forth, O Beauteous Heavenly Light (LSB378)
----After Epistle Reading, Choir ss 1-2, Congregation st. 3
O come, O come, Emmanuel (LSB 357)
Comfort, comfort ye My people (LSB 347)
Come, Thou precious Ransom, come (LSB 350)
Let the earth now praise the Lord (LSB 352)

Hymns and readings for 22 December 2010

2010-12-07T10:55:00.001-08:00

337 The Night will Soon Be Ending

335 O Bride of Chirst Rejoice

Psalm 70

Heb 10:19-39

Mark 13:33-37

Hymns and Readings for 15 December 2010

2010-12-07T09:56:00.001-08:00

348 The King Shall Come

349 Hark the Glad Sound

Psalm 96

Zech 8:1-9

Luke 21:25-36

Hymns and Readings for 8 December 2010

2010-12-07T09:39:00.001-08:00

516 Wake Awake

354 Arise, O Christian People

Psalm 45

Romans 13:11-14

Luke 12:35-40

Hymns for 12 December 2010, The Third Sunday in Advent

2010-12-07T09:31:00.001-08:00

349 Hark the Glad Sound

343 Prepare the Royal Highway

833 Listen God is Calling

345 Hark! A Thrilling Voice is Calling

Readings and hymns for 1 Dec 2010

2010-11-30T10:48:00.000-08:00

Psalm 143:1-8

Isaiah 64:1-9

1 Th 4:13-18

Mk 13:32-37

336 Lo! He Comes with Clouds Descending

338 Come Thou Long Expected Jesus

Hymns for 5 December 2010, Advent 2

2010-11-29T12:51:00.000-08:00

LSB One year series, Divine Service 3

Rejoice, rejoice, believers (LSB 515)

Lo! He comes with clouds descending (LSB 336)

O Savior, rend the heavens wide (LSB 355)

Once He came in blessing (LSB 333)

Come, We that Love the Lord (LSB 669)

Hymns for 28 November 2010, First Sunday of Advent, Ad Te Levavi

2010-11-24T10:29:00.000-08:00

Lutheran Service Book Matins

O Lord, How Shall I Meet Thee 334

Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates 341 (Psalm Hymn)

Savior of the Nations, Come 332

O Bride of Christ, Rejoice 335

Hymns for Thanksgiving day, 25 November 2010

2010-11-22T11:30:00.000-08:00

Lutheran Service Book Divine Service Setting Four

Sing Praise to God, the Highest Good 819

We Praise You and Acknowledge You 941

Come, Ye Thankful People, Come 892

Now Thank We All Our God 895

This nominee for Worst Praise Song Ever is not serious

2010-11-14T15:11:00.000-08:00

But it is still a symptom of the problem that we would ever produce such garbage. Such things do not enhance the gospel message. Rather they teach children that the faith is something silly and unimportant.

You judge:

Hymns for the Last Sunday of the Church Year, 21 November 2010

2010-11-08T12:34:00.000-08:00

Lutheran Service Book Divine Service Setting 1

738 Lord of all Hopefulness

516 Wake, Awake, for Night is Flying

680 Thine the Amen, Thine the Praise

534 Lord, Enthroned in Heavenly Splendor

336 Lo! He Comes with Clouds Descending

Hymns for 14 November 2010, Second last Sunday of the Church Year

2010-11-08T12:12:00.001-08:00

Lutheran Service Book, Matins

873 Christ, Whose Glory Fills the Skies

802 Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise

508 The Day is Surely Drawing Near, ss. 1-4 before Sermon, ss. 5-7 after

733 O God our Help in Ages Past

Hymns for 7 November 2010, All Saints' Sunday

2010-11-02T12:04:00.000-07:00

Lutheran Service Book

677 For All the Saints

667 Saints, See the Cloud of Witnesses

676 Behold a Host

TLH 613 Jerusalem the Golden

675 Oh What their Joy

Luthreans in Africa and how to talk to a Methodist and how to explain Baptism

2010-10-28T11:52:00.000-07:00

As I referenced in Choir last night, here are the videos that include footage from the work of Lutherans in Africa:

Hymns for the Festival of the Reformation 31 October 2010, 10 am service

2010-10-26T11:50:00.001-07:00

Lutheran Service Book Divine Service setting 3

God’s Own Child LSB 594, Sunday School sings st. 1

Salvation unto Us has come LSB 555

The Lord my God be Praised LSB 794

By Grace I’m Saved LSB 566

A Mighty Fortress LSB 656

Fool Proof Apologetics

2010-10-26T09:46:00.000-07:00

As mentioned in the Sunday morning adult Bible class and courtesy of Fighting for the Faith, Answers in Genesis and Dr. Jason Lisle: this lecture describes how to engage in apologetics, not by refuting points, but by leading others to reconsider their worldview assumptions. Specifically, in regard to the question of evil, Dr. Lisle's approach is similar to the one Dr. Del Tackett presents in The Truth Project. In the end, only Christianity has a worldview that is 100% consistent within and without.

Hymns for 24 October 2010, Pentecost 22 (Proper 25)

2010-10-18T11:32:00.001-07:00

Lutheran Service Book Matins

Just as I am 570

I am Jesus Little Lamb 740

Jesus Sinners Doth Receive 609

Chief of Sinners Though I be 611

Hymns for 17 October 2010, Pentecost 21 (Proper 24)

2010-10-13T11:45:00.001-07:00

Lutheran Service Book, Divine Service Setting 1

Hear us, Father, when we pray LSB 773

Sing Praise to God, the Highest Good LSB 819

Rejoice, my heart, be glad and sing LSB 737

Eternal Spirit of the living Christ LSB 769

Holy God, we praise Thy name LSB 940

The Privileged Planet

2010-10-11T09:45:00.000-07:00

Here is the video I made reference to in Bible Class yesterday. Enjoy!

Hymns for 10 October 2010, Pentecost 20

2010-10-06T09:23:00.001-07:00

Lutheran Service Book, Series C Proper 23

Matins

Come, Thou Fount of ev’ry blessing LSB 686
Now thank we all our God LSB 895
Jesus, grant that balm and healing LSB 421
Praise to the Lord, the Almighty LSB 790

Hymns for 3 October 2010, Pentecost 19 (Proper 22)

2010-09-29T12:19:00.001-07:00

Let us ever walk with Jesus LSB 685

One Thing’s Needful LSB 536

Draw near and take the body of the Lord LSB 637

Jesus Comes Today with Healing LSB 620

How Can I Thank You, Lord LSB 703

Hymns for 26 September 2010, Pentecost 18 (Proper 21)

2010-09-22T10:42:00.001-07:00

Father, Most Holy, Merciful and Tender LSB 504

Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven LSB 793

Lord, You I Love with All My Heart LSB 708

Savior, Again to Thy Dear Name We Raise LSB 917

Hymns for 19 September 2010, Pentecost 17 (Proper 20)

2010-09-15T09:41:00.001-07:00

Lutheran Service Book

I Bind Unto Myself Today LSB 604

One thing’s needful; Lord, this treasure LSB 536

Seek where you may to find a way LSB 557

What is the world to me LSB 730

Thine Forever, God of Love 687

Hymns for 12 September 2010, Pentecost 16 (Proper 19)

2010-09-08T11:27:00.001-07:00

Rally Sunday

Matins

Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us LSB 711

Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise LSB 802 (Office Hymn)

Jesus Sinners Doth Receive LSB 609 (Sermon Hymn)

Shepherd of Tender Youth LSB 864

Sermon: Jesus and Proverbs of the Feast

2010-09-02T12:26:00.000-07:00

29 August 2010, Pentecost 14 (Proper 17) LSB Series C
Based on Luke 14:1-14

Hymns for 5 September 2010, Pentecost 15 (Proper 18)

2010-09-01T09:59:00.001-07:00

Lutheran Service Book series C

In the Cross of Christ I Glory LSB 427

Praise the Almighty, My Soul, Adore Him LSB 797

At the Lamb’s High Feast we Sing LSB 633

Lord of Glory, You Have Bought Us LSB 851

Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer LSB 918

Hymns for 29 August 2010, Pentecost 14 (Proper 17)

2010-08-26T10:31:00.001-07:00

Lutheran Service Book Setting 4

Lift High the Cross LSB 837

Son of God, Eternal Savior LSB 842

Soul, Adorn Yourself with Gladness LSB 636

Where Charity and Love Prevail LSB 845

Abide, O Dearest Jesus LSB 919

Liturgical Catechism: Which Side? Gospel Side or Epistle Side

2010-08-25T11:47:00.001-07:00

If you ask where you should place the lovely vase of flowers, and someone answered, on the left side of the altar you wouldn’t be confused. But the pastor might. Unlike the members of the congregation, the pastor spends a lot of the service turning around. Sometimes he faces toward the congregation and sometimes toward the altar. Sometimes he stands behind the altar facing the congregation, only enhancing his confusion. How is the pastor to know which side of the sanctuary is which? The answer takes us back through the history of church architecture to the days before lecterns were popular. Churches in various times and places did not have lecterns for the reading of the scriptures. In such places the reader would simply stand and hold the book and read from it, but since he was not tied to the lectern he would read it from a place that would reinforce the meaning of what was being read.

In the Old Testament you may have read a description of the Altar at the Temple or Tabernacle. There were stone projections sticking off the corners of the altar. These were called “horns.” Sometimes, people would flee to the altar and hold onto the horns of the altar to try to have sanctuary and not be killed. This is because it was understood that the horns of the altar were a place of God’s mercy. In the same way, the altars in our churches are the symbol of God’s presence and mercy. (That is also why it is customary to bow when we approach or cross the front of the altar.)

When there is no lectern, the readings take place from the corners of the altar. The front right corner (as you face the front of the church) was where the Epistle was read. Sometimes the gospel was read from the middle of the congregation to symbolize “The Word was made flesh and dwelt among us.” At other times it was read from the front left corner of the altar.

For this reason the right side of the sanctuary and altar is called the epistle side, and the left side is called the gospel side. Sometimes I continue the tradition of reading the gospel from the corner of the altar to continue teaching which is the gospel side and that the Good News comes from the altar of God.

Whether you sit on the epistle side or the gospel side, the Word of God is his message of mercy, and the altar is the symbol of his presence, as you worship the One who brings you the Good News of His mercy shown in Jesus Christ, our Lord.

Sword

2010-08-24T21:59:00.001-07:00

About ten years ago I was watching a panel on TV discussing the different world religions. A young lady said that Christianity was no different than Islam for both were founded by warriors. She tried to justify her statement by quoting from Matthew (Mat 10:34 KJV) Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.

I had always disagreed with her statement, but until the today's Gospel reading of Luke I could not give a good scriptural answer to her statement. Luke's parallel verse is (Luke 12:51 KJV) Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division:.

In a biblical sense, these two verses show that sword and division are synonyms. Hebrews uses these two words to describe "The Word of God" . (Heb 4:12 KJV) For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

And in Ephesians we are told to put on the whole armor of God. (Eph 6:12 KJV) For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. (Eph 6:13 KJV) Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. (Eph 6:14 KJV) Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; (Eph 6:15 KJV) And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; (Eph 6:16 KJV) Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. (Eph 6:17 KJV) And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:.

So, this sword that divides is not of metal but of written words that is "The Word of God". Just as a metal sword can divide joints and marrow so also the word of God that Jesus brings, divides belief from unbelief. There are Christians who have been divided from family, friends, and heritage because of the cross of Christ. As painful as that division is, it throws us into the arms of God's love.

And besides all of this, Jesus discourages his followers from using a worldly sword (Mat 26:52 KJV) Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword.

Hymns for 22 August 2010, Pentecost 13 (Series C Proper 16)

2010-08-18T10:02:00.000-07:00

Sing my Tongue LSB 454

Jerusalem, My Happy Home LSB 673 (Psalm Hymn)

A Multitude Comes from the East and the West LSB 510

O Christ Our True and Only Light LSB 839

Hymns and readings for 15 August 2010, Pentecost 12 (Proper 15)

2010-08-11T11:33:00.001-07:00

Built on the Rock the Church shall stand LSB 645

Saints, see the cloud of witnesses LSB 667

Thine the amen, Thine the praise LSB 680

The day is surely drawing near LSB 508

The Lord, My God, Be Praised LSB 794

Hymns for 25 July 2010

2010-07-21T12:21:00.001-07:00

What a Friend we Have in Jesus LSB 770

Praise the Almighty My Soul Adore Him LSB 797 (Psalm Hymn)

Father most holy, merciful and tender LSB 504

A Mighty Fortress is Our God LSB 656

Hymns for 18 July 2010, Pentecost 8

2010-07-14T09:22:00.001-07:00

Lutheran Service Book Divine Service setting 1

Rise, Shine, You People 825

The Church’s one foundation 644
Thy strong word did cleave the darkness 578
One Thing’s Needful 536

Crown Him with Many Crowns 525

Catechism day 3 assignment

2010-07-08T12:21:00.000-07:00

Commandments 4, 5 and 6 and meanings

Catechism day 2 assignment

2010-07-07T21:05:00.000-07:00

Commandments 1-3 and meanings

Catechism day 1 assignment

2010-07-06T12:14:00.000-07:00

Learn by heart the books of the Old Testament in order.

Hymns for 11 July 2010, 7th sunday after Pentecost (Proper 10)

2010-07-01T10:20:00.001-07:00

From the Lutheran Service Book

869 With the Lord Begin Your Task

845 Where charity and love prevail

851 Lord of Glory, You Have Bought Us

803 Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee

1 and 2 Kings and the problem of Evil

2010-06-30T09:47:00.000-07:00

What if the problem of evil isn’t a problem? asks Christopher Benson. Benson explores some areas that are surprisingly similar to things we are studying in our new member class/Bible Study of 1 and 2 Kings.

He explores the connections between the condemnations and praise or various kings of Israel and Judea with a new book about Evil:

British literary critic Terry Eagleton is onto something very promising in his new book, On Evil, when he writes:

Evil is a form of transcendence, even if from the point of view of good it is a transcendence gone awry. Perhaps it is the only form of transcendence left in a postreligious world. We know nothing any more of choirs of heavenly hosts, but we know about Auschwitz. Maybe all that now survives of God is this negative trace of him known as wickedness, rather as all that may survive of some great symphony is the silence which it imprints on the air like an inaudible sound as it shimmers to a close. Perhaps evil is all that now keeps warm the space where God used to be.

He goes on to connect how the lack of ANY good kings in the northern kingdom does not prove that God does not exist, but only proves how absent Israel had become to Him. The great evil that we see in the world around us does not prove that God does not exist, as some have accused, but it proves how desperately lost we are without Him.

Manute Bol's Radical Christianity

2010-06-30T09:41:00.000-07:00

The untimely death of the Christian Sudanese immigrant NBA star, Manute Bol, shows the light of Christ shining through his Christians. But "the darkness has not comprehended it."

During his final years, Bol suffered more than mere mockery in the service of others. While he was doing relief work in the Sudan, he contracted a painful skin disease that ultimately contributed to his death.
Bol's life and death throws into sharp relief the trivialized manner in which sports journalists employ the concept of redemption. In the world of sports media players are redeemed when they overcome some prior "humiliation" by playing well. Redemption then is deeply connected to personal gain and celebrity. It leads to fatter contracts, shoe endorsements, and adoring women.
Yet as Bol reminds us, the Christian understanding of redemption has always involved lowering and humbling oneself. It leads to suffering and even death.
It is of little surprise, then, that the sort of radical Christianity exemplified by Bol is rarely understood by sports journalists. For all its interest in the intimate details of players' lives, the media has long been tone deaf to the way devout Christianity profoundly shapes some of them.
Obituary titles for Bol, for example, described him as a humanitarian rather than a Christian. The remarkable charity and personal character of other NBA players, including David Robinson, A. C. Green and Dwight Howard, are almost never explicitly connected to their own intense Christian faith. They are simply good guys.

Read the rest here: Jon Shields: Manute Bol's Radical Christianity - WSJ.com