David Bahn - Reflections

I am using the YouVersion 49 Week Bible Challenge for these devotions. Today's readings are Luke 6; Proverbs 21; Psalm 79; Isaiah 15; 16.

I am using the YouVersion 49 Week Bible Challenge for these devotions. Today's readings are Mark 3; Exodus 35; Jeremiah 52; Job 33.

I am using the YouVersion 49 Week Bible Challenge for these devotions. Today's readings are John 5; Jeremiah 17; Nehemiah 3; and Job 10.

I am using the YouVersion 49 Week Bible Challenge for these devotions. Today's readings are Mark 2; Deuteronomy 23; 1 Samuel 21; 22.

I am using the YouVersion 49 Week Bible Challenge for these devotions. Today's readings are John 4; Genesis 33; Joshua 8; 24; Isaiah 12.

I am using the YouVersion 49 Week Bible Challenge for these devotions. Today's readings are John 3; Numbers 21; Proverbs 30.

I am using the YouVersion 49 Week Bible Challenge for these devotions. Today's readings are John 2; Genesis 41; Leviticus 1; Deuteronomy 14.

I am using the YouVersion 49 Week Bible Challenge for these devotions. Today's readings are Luke 5; Leviticus 14; Psalm 150; Isaiah 43.

I am using the YouVersion 49 Week Bible Challenge for these devotions. Today's readings are Luke 4; Deuteronomy 8; Numbers 15; 2 Kings 5.

I am using the YouVersion 49 Week Bible Challenge for these devotions. Today's readings are Matthew 4; Psalm 91; Isaiah 9; 1 Chronicles 21.

I am using the YouVersion 49 Week Bible Challenge for these devotions. Today's readings are Luke 3; Genesis 10; 11; 1 Chronicles 1; 2.

I am using the YouVersion 49 Week Bible Challenge for these devotions. Today's readings are Mark 1; Leviticus 13; Isaiah 44; 61.

I am using the YouVersion 49 Week Bible Challenge for these devotions. Today's readings are Luke 2:39-53; Deuteronomy 16; Psalm 48; Psalm 84. In today's readings, do you notice a promise to trust, a command to obey, a truth to embrace, a warning to heed, or an encouragement to rest in? What do you learn about God, about yourself, or about the world? Is there one verse or thought that stands out to you today? Talk to God about it.

I am using the YouVersion 49 Week Bible Challenge for these devotions. Today's readings are Matthew 2; Micah 5; Hosea 11; Numbers 24; Joshua 20.

Today's readings are Luke 2:1-38; Exodus 13; Leviticus 12; 2 Chronicles 7. In today's readings, do you notice a promise to trust, a command to obey, a truth to embrace, a warning to heed, or an encouragement to rest in? What do you learn about God, about yourself, or about the world? Is there one verse or thought that stands out to you today? Talk to God about it.

Today's readings are Matthew 1:18-25; Isaiah 7; Psalm 130; Deuteronomy 22. In today's readings, do you notice a promise to trust, a command to obey, a truth to embrace, a warning to heed, or an encouragement to rest in? What do you learn about God, about yourself, or about the world? Is there one verse or thought that stands out to you today? Talk to God about it.

Today's readings are Matthew 1:6-17; 2 Kings 3; 18; 19; 1 Chronicles 3. In today's readings, do you notice a promise to trust, a command to obey, a truth to embrace, a warning to heed, or an encouragement to rest in?What do you learn about God, about yourself, or about the world?Is there one verse or thought that stands out to you today? Talk to God about it.

Today's readings are Matthew 1:6-17; 2 Kings 3; 18; 19; 1 Chronicles 3. In today's readings, do you notice a promise to trust, a command to obey, a truth to embrace, a warning to heed, or an encouragement to rest in?What do you learn about God, about yourself, or about the world?Is there one verse or thought that stands out to you today? Talk to God about it.

Today's readings are Matthew 1:1-4; Genesis 38; 46; Numbers 7Baptized into the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, we carry the only name that ultimately matters. The name that saves. The people named in these genealogies testify of God's far-reaching grace. Shown in Jesus. Celebrated by saint and sinner alike.

Today's readings are from John 1:1-14; Psalm 36; Job 29; Exodus 40When the Second Person of the Holy Trinity takes on human flesh he becomes more real for us. And so does religion, faith, truth, hope, love, and salvation. The Word became flesh...full of grace and truth. So profound. So simple. Such a mystery. Such a blessing. This faith we profess and believe is not just a concept. It is embodied in a person, Jesus of Nazareth. Son of Mary. Son of God. Real religion honors him by trusting in him, believing his promises, aligning ourselves with the Truth of his word, and reflecting his grace to all people.

Today's readings are Luke 1:39-80; 1 Samuel 2; Ezekiel 24 & 29God doesn't smite people for fun - an overstatement to be sure. His ways are part of a more sweeping story of creation, fall, redemption, and consummation. The rise and fall of Babylon, Egypt, and Israel are part of the cosmic span of history. The manner of setting things right falls on the shoulders of Jesus, who will take the strike of God's hand of justice so that we may experience the mercy of God. There will be a day. And on that day we who wait, hope, and trust humbly in God's faithful and gracious love will rejoice in God's salvation.

Today's readings are Luke 1:14-38; Malachi 4; Leviticus 10; Jeremiah 33Most followers of Jesus are willing to play second fiddle to Jesus. But as Christ-followers, we are also to be willing to play second fiddle to one another. Philippians 2:3 says, "Don't be selfish; don't try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves." In other words we ought always be willing to be second.

When we go to worship in a church building we can thank God for those who built it and who make it available for us even today. Although God is present everywhere. He has promised to be present in a very special way where two or three are gathered in his name, and when we receive the Lord's Supper where Jesus' body and blood are present in a mysterious, miraculous, and merciful way.God delights to be with us. We should delight to be with him as well. 

The Great Commission is recorded in some form or another in Matthew 28:16-20; Mark 16:15-16; Luke 24:46-47; John 20:21-23; and Acts 1:8. These words of Jesus reflect at least 10 references in the Old Testament! This is no new commission. It is the Great Commission. Under the authority of the risen Jesus, for all people of all time to hear the Good News of his redemption and invitation into the reign and rule of God.

This is God's gift - a peace beyond understanding, a peace unlike the world gives. A peace that is not just a greeting, salutation or closing. “Peace to you,” he says. Believe it. Receive it!Peace,dlb

Jesus' resurrection, profoundly good news, and the Holy Spirit's work through the two change hearts, hope, future, purpose, and people.  This is the heart-changing power of God at work—through the risen Christ, the truly good news, and the outpoured Spirit. And just as those first disciples were transformed from fear into joyful witness, so we too are called, equipped, and sent to live boldly in the light of the resurrection, bearing the hope that cannot die and the message that still changes hearts today.

God's Word has created light where there was darkness, hope where there was despair, and life where there was death. Now, through His living Word—Jesus Christ—He calls us to reflect His light into the world."For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,' has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ." - 2 Corinthians 4:6

God's promises are sure to be fulfilled. Our prayers in Jesus' name will be answered. Our sins have been forgiven. We have an eternal hope stored up for us. Every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.Jesus has also said, "I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak" (Matthew 12:36). Words matter. Our words can wound or heal. God's words will never fail. His Word to us is the embodiment of grace and truth.

I preached at Messiah Lutheran Church in Houston on April 27. The text is John 21:19-31. Enjoy this special edition of my podcast.

Jesus meets us right where we are—troubled, doubting, hungry for reassurance. He doesn't shame us for our questions; instead, He offers Himself. His scars. His peace. His life.And just like the disciples in that upper room, we are invited not just to believe about Him but to know Him, trust Him, and rejoice in the living Lord who comes to us even now, saying:"Peace be with you.”

Your story may not be as dramatic as that of the Emmaus disciples. But it is the same Lord Jesus who has touched your heart and given you new life. We've all got a story to tell. If we tell it rightly we won't be the hero. We'll point others to Jesus and he will be source of praise, worship, and joy.

God moments. Spiritual awakenings. Moments of inspiration. Wesley spoke of his heart being strangely warmed as he read Luther's introduction to Luther's commentary on Romans. Luther said, when he discovered the gospel message, "It was as though I was born again, and entered into paradise itself." It is the inner peace of Christ, the peace that passes understanding. The Emmaus disciples experienced this when they were in Jesus' very presence.Grounded in Scripture. Centered in Jesus. Not the source of faith, but a beautiful touch of the Holy Spirit's presence and grace. Leading us to honor Jesus and trust him more fully.

Scripture witnesses to the truth of all Jesus said. In one of his parables, Abraham tells the Rich Man, “They have Moses and the Prophets...If they do not hear Moses and the Prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead.” Jesus' resurrection validates the message of Moses and the prophets. What more do you need to believe?

Sometimes we may need a bump in the road to gain a new perspective. The pathway there is made possible by Jesus' resurrection. And we can gain that new understanding whenever we remember that the tomb is empty and Jesus is alive!

Next time you have difficulty remembering someone's name, rejoice that Jesus knows your name, he has your name written in the book of life. And keep your eyes open for his presence among his people as he has promised - and especially in the breaking of the bread of the Lord's Supper. He is our loving and living Lord and Savior.

On that Friday long ago...One man confessed: “Certainly this man was innocent!”Some beat their breasts in agonizing shame.A few watched, and waited, and then rested on the Sabbath.And Jesus' body rested in a borrowed tomb.

As we celebrate Holy Communion we're not just doing a thing that Jesus told us to do. We're participating in the celebration of all that God was and is doing through his Son, Jesus of Nazareth. We do well to believe Jesus' words. We do better by not trying to figure out how to explain his words, or worse, explain them away. We do best when we "do this in remembrance of" all that Jesus has done, is doing, and will ultimately accomplish for us in the life of the world to come.

In whatever manner the events  of Holy Week unfolded, the fact remains that Jesus and his disciples were focusing on the deep spiritual meaning of the Passover while the Jewish leaders were counting votes. Jesus knew it was going to unfold toward his suffering and death. The Passover would soon be fulfilled for all time. That's not a fleeting political calculation. That's an eternal reality.

This week is a great week to focus on God. We best not worry about a "how to" series of sermons and studies - all these about being happier and more successful. Better we listen to the accounts of Jesus' last days on earth, and be reminded of God's unwavering faithfulness, grace, goodness, and love. Those are some of the most beautiful facets of God's faithfulness.

Jesus quotes from two Psalms in this chapter, Psalm 118 and 110. These two Psalm verses show that Jesus is God and man. Lord and Servant. But he will not be dismissed. He is the chief of the corner, and we who build our lives on him will not be put to shame.

God uses people to advance the cause of his reign and rule in the hearts of people, by grace, through faith. What a privilege it would be to provide even a manger for Jesus to be laid in. What a joy to know that you could give a drink of water to Jesus on a hot day at noon. How thankful you would be if Jesus used your gift of pure nard to tell of his coming death and said that your action would be told for generations to come. What would it be like to have offered your upper room for Jesus' last Supper with his disciples. What an honor to provide even your tomb on loan for Jesus' lifeless body - if only for three days. Hosanna! Blessed is the King who has come in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest! Are we ready to offer whatever Jesus needs to honor him? 

I cannot fail to draw a conclusion about this parable that relates to the secondary motivation for obedience and faithfulness. That's fear. It's not the primary motivation, but sometimes we need to haul ourselves up short rather than give in to temptation out of fear of God. Sometimes we need to use our talents for fear of being reprimanded if we do not.Better always, we resist temptation and use our gifts faithfully because we love and trust in God. But this is a good reminder that we are to fear God as well. So we say, "We should fear, love, and trust in God above all things." This is most certainly true!

Our story may not be as dramatic as Zacchaeus' story. But Jesus' grace is as far reaching, and our salvation is just as extraordinary. And his presence in our hearts and lives is just as gracious. 

Just as the people of Jesus' day didn't really know what to expect in the Messiah, we are very likely not fully to know what it will be like when Jesus returns and when we are with him face to face. In the meantime, we do well to cultivate a humble faith.

The tax collector in Jesus' parable went home justified not because he was impressive, but because he knew he wasn't. He threw himself on the mercy of God—and that's exactly where grace meets us.Humility isn't something we muster—it's something that happens when we stand before the cross and realize what Jesus did to gain our salvation. There we find what we could never achieve on our own: the smile of God, the welcome of Jesus, and the joy of going home justified.

The fullness of joy is found in a life of faithful gratitude. I'm thankful to God for his faithfulness, and grateful to him even as I pray, "Lord, increase my faith."PS: Here's my diagram of the interplay between faith and gratitude. What do you think?Faith & Gratitude Diagram

We may always have the poor among us. But that should not erode our awareness of them or blind us to the opportunities we have to serve them. After all that is what Jesus did to serve poor miserable sinners such as us. He didn't overlook us. He served and saved us and calls us to do the same. Furthermore, Jesus has risen from the dead. Surely we will listen to him!

This parable is one of a trio in the Lost and Found chapter. The lost and found sheep, one of 100. The lost and found coin, one of 10. The lost and found son, one of two. But there is a refrain at the end of the first two parables. This third one describes this truth: “There is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”Will we join the celebration? Will we return to God if we are far off? Will we come in if we're standing aloof in bitterness and anger? Every gathering of God's people is to be a foretaste of the joy to come, a celebration of God's grace and joy in the fellowship of the redeemed. Don't be mad or sad. Be glad and rejoice in God's grace every day.

The feast of which Jesus speaks is for those who have been made new. They love God and their neighbor. They rejoice when the outcast is redeemed. They celebrate as all God's people gather around Jesus, giving him the honor and praise he deserves. We will certainly not want to miss this feast!This is the Feast Hymn on Youtube

Jesus was committed only to pleasing God and loving others. So he healed the bent over woman. On the Sabbath. In front of the whole synagogue. And he took away her infirmity. And he took on their ire. He calls them to account in the process, saying, "And ought not this woman, a daughter of Abraham whom Satan bound for eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath day?”There are two reactions to Jesus' healing touch. Luke tells us, "As he said these things, all his adversaries were put to shame, and all the people rejoiced at all the glorious things that were done by him." 

Jesus is on his way to Jerusalem. He is aware that this is a critical time, and the danger of getting derailed is imminent. The pressure is building from the criticisms of the Jewish leaders and the impatient crowds and the confused disciples. These are not peaceful times in his ministry. Jesus must stay the course if he is to usher in the reign and rule of God.