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August 25, 2026Today's Reading: Isaiah 29:17-24Daily Lectionary: 1 Kings 7:51-8:21; 2 Corinthians 3:1-18“Is it not yet a very little while until Lebanon shall be turned into a fruitful field, and the fruitful field shall be regarded as a forest? In that day the deaf shall hear the words of a book, and out of their gloom and darkness the eyes of the blind shall see. The meek shall obtain fresh joy in the LORD, and the poor among mankind shall exult in the Holy One of Israel. For the ruthless shall come to nothing and the scoffer cease, and all who watch to do evil shall be cut off, who by a word make a man out to be an offender, and lay a snare for him who reproves in the gate, and with an empty plea turn aside him who is in the right. Therefore thus says the LORD, who redeemed Abraham, concerning the house of Jacob: ‘Jacob shall no more be ashamed, no more shall his face grow pale. For when he sees his children, the work of my hands, in his midst, they will sanctify my name; they will sanctify the Holy One of Jacob and will stand in awe of the God of Israel. And those who go astray in spirit will come to understanding, and those who murmur will accept instruction.'” (Isaiah 29:17–24)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.We live in the midst of a fruitful Lebanon. The First day of the Lord has come, and the prophet Isaiah spoke the words of God that would come to pass. The Gospel for this week was opening the ears of the deaf man. That man was healed, and he heard the words of Christ; he heard the Word of God speaking to him. We can also look at other places in Jesus' ministry and see him fulfilling this prophecy. Between putting down scoffers to the meek obtaining fresh joy, Jesus does it all. However, all of those miracles pale in comparison to the fulfillment of verses 22-24. This is where the effects of Jesus' mission on earth come to pass.Christ comes and sanctifies Jacob. Jesus' unblemished life, death, and resurrection take the shame of Jacob away. When Jacob sees his children, the work of God's hands, in his midst, they will sanctify God's name. Because of Jesus's work of salvation, not only are we made righteous before God, but God's name is sanctified as well. Yahweh dwells with his people and brings his people back to Himself. The relationship has been restored between God and man. Christ is the fulfillment of the prophets and is the fulfillment of the first prophecy made to Eve in the Garden. Jesus is the one to crush the head of the serpent forever. We live in the victory of Christ until he comes again to bring us to be with him for all eternity.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Anoint them prophets, men who are intent. To be Your witnesses in word and deed, their hearts aflame, their lips made eloquent. Their eyes awake to every human need. (LSB 682:2)Jonah Clausen, seminary student at Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne.

August 22, 2026Today's Reading: Introit for Trinity 12 - Psalm 70:2b, 4a, 5b; antiphon: Psalm 70:1-2aDaily Lectionary: 1 Kings 2:1-27; 1 Corinthians 14:1-16:24; 1 Corinthians 13:1-13“You are my help and my deliverer; O Lord, do not delay!” (Psalm 70:5)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. Psalm 70 expresses a prayer that every believer in God has prayed: “Help!” “Make haste, O God, to deliver me! O Lord, make haste to help me!” (v. 1). It is the most basic and sincerest prayer.What the exact situation of David, the author of the Psalm, was, we do not know. David had his sworn enemies. He had conquered rivals within Israel and many from other nations as well. The number of men slain by him was in the thousands. As a result, many people were out to get him. People who, as he put it, “delighted in my hurt.” (vs. 2)Some might think that a man like King David wouldn't need any help taking care of his enemies. Remember how quickly he dispatched Goliath? David could handle himself. Who would David have been afraid of? But David knew that his successes in battle were only a gift from God.For example, when they tried talking him out of fighting Goliath, he told them, “The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” And during the pre-battle trash-talking, David told Goliath, “You come to me with a sword … but I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you down…” (1st Samuel 17:45-46). David didn't trust in his own strength, but he relied on God, his help and deliverer.You probably haven't had anyone plot to kill you (and hopefully, you never will!) Yet, you can still relate to the need to be rescued from your enemies. Have you had kids put you down to build themselves up? Have they said unkind things? Made fun of you in front of others? Mocked you behind your back? Teenagers can be cruel. While going through these situations is no fun, take heart, cry out to God for help, and the Lord will deliver you, too. In fact, the Lord God Almighty has already delivered you from your greatest enemies: sin and death. Jesus, the Son of David, fought Satan and defeated him. He gave Himself up for you on the cross, and His victory over the grave in His resurrection is complete and final. Now all who are in Him are delivered and will be forever. Therefore, rejoice and be glad in Him and say evermore: “God is great!” (vs. 4)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. Seek Him alone Who did atone, Who did your souls deliver. O seek Him first, All you who thirst For grace that fails you never. In ev'ry need Seek Him indeed; To every heart He will impart His blessings without measure. (LSB 557:3)Rev. Joel Shaltanis, pastor of Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Plano, TX.

August 19, 2026Today's Reading: 2 Samuel 11:1-27Daily Lectionary: 2 Samuel 11:1-27; 1 Corinthians 11:17-34“But the thing that David had done displeased the Lord.” (2 Samuel 11:27b)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.How could this happen? God said that David was a man after His own heart: David trusted God and was a model of faithfulness, honoring God in both word and deed. But in our passage today, we read how this same great king slept with the wife of one of his trusted warriors, impregnated her, and tried to cover it up with lies. Then, when deception wouldn't work, he turned to murder. So, again: How could this happen? The same way it almost always does. “But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.” (James 1:14-15) It started with just one look. He saw a beautiful woman naked, and instead of looking away, he kept looking and started thinking. He started to wonder about and delight in the idea of something wicked. At some point, he also came up with a justification for himself. I imagine it went like this: I am the king. I should get to have any woman I want. I deserve this! And at that point, he said to his servant, Bring her to me.David had several wives and concubines. He wasn't starved for sexual attention. Though it may have started as lust, the real sin is greed (failing to be content with what you have been given). If he justified his actions the way I think he did, then it was ultimately driven by pride, accompanied by a sense of entitlement.As we will see tomorrow, the consequences of David's sins were enormous. So learn from his downfall. Don't excuse small sins. Look away from those images on the screen. Do not delight in wicked things. Be content with what you have and do not think you are entitled to more. You, too, are capable of great evil if you let sin go unchecked. For King David, what started with one look later grew into murder. So, take heed lest you stumble. (1 Cor. 10:12)The story of David's fall is an important warning, but here's something much more comforting: Christ Himself was tempted in every way as we are, yet was without sin. (Heb. 4:15) Where we and so many others have failed and given in to desire, Christ stood strong. He kept Himself holy and pure so He could offer Himself up as the perfect sacrifice for our sins. And that perfect sacrifice on the cross covers all sins -big and small- for those who trust in Him. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Should some lust or sharp temptation Fascinate my sinful mind, Draw me to Your cross and passion, And new courage I shall find. Or should Satan press me hard, Let me then be on my guard, ‘Saying Christ for me was wounded,' That the tempter flee confounded. (LSB 421:2)Rev. Joel Shaltanis, pastor of Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Plano, TX.

August 18, 2026Today's Reading: Ephesians 2:1-10 or 1 Corinthians 15:1-10Daily Lectionary: 2 Samuel 7:18-29; 1 Corinthians 10:23-11:16“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God…” (Ephesians 2:8)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Lutherans love to say we are saved by grace through faith. But, as Luther would ask in his catechism, What does this mean? No text explains this better than Ephesians 2. Paul explains to his readers that before coming to Christ, spiritually, they were dead. Not neutral or pretty good, or able to help themselves if they tried harder or anything like that. No. Spiritually, they were dead, and they were damned. Like the rest of mankind, they were following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air- that spirit now at work in the sons of disobedience, and carrying out the desires of the flesh. (v. 2-3) These are the three great enemies of God: the world, the flesh, and the devil.The world is the pressure we feel from outside of ourselves, coming from our friends or what is advertised to us as a good time. We want to fit in and be accepted, so we listen to these voices instead of listening to God. The flesh is our own personal weaknesses. We all have temptations to which we are prone, but they aren't all the same. Some people are particularly tempted by pride, while others are driven by envy, and still others by lust, and so on. Lastly, there is “the prince of the power of the air,” or as he is better known, the devil. He is real, and as Luther said somewhere, he never takes a vacation. He's like a roaring lion prowling around, waiting to devour you. (1 Peter 5:8) He suggests evil thoughts to you, like he did to Adam and Eve, and like he did to Jesus. And except for Jesus, he has a perfect record of getting people to sin! The world, the flesh, and the devil have made us, along with the rest of mankind, objects of God's wrath. With these things stacked against us, constantly leading us to sin, we are dead. What chance does anyone have given this situation?“But God being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ-by grace you have been saved…” (4-5) Why are some going to make it to heaven? Not because they were good enough. Not because they didn't sin, but because God is merciful and Christ our substitute was good enough. Amazingly, God loves sinners in spite of their sins. What's more, even though sinners are dead in their trespasses, He made some alive in Christ. That's what the Bible calls grace –God's undeserved kindness, His Gift of new life given to people who deserve to be dead.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.By grace! On this I'll rest when dying; In Jesus' promise I rejoice; For though I know my heart's condition, I also know my Savior's voice. My heart is glad, all grief has flown Since I am saved by grace alone. (LSB 566:2)Rev. Joel Shaltanis, pastor of Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Plano, TX.

August 17, 2026Today's Reading: Genesis 4:1-15Daily Lectionary: 2 Samuel 7:1-17; 1 Corinthians 9:24-10:22“sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is for you, and you must rule over it.” (Genesis 4:7b)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Cain and Abel both presented offerings to the LORD. Abel brought his best; Cain did not. The LORD regarded Abel's offering, but not Cain's. Cain was shown up by his little brother! “So Cain was very angry…”It's not wrong to get angry. Even Jesus got angry with moneychangers. But when Jesus was angry, He never acted inappropriately. That wasn't the case for Cain, and it often isn't the case with us. When someone else gets the recognition we wanted or thought we deserved, envy and anger are stirred up in us like they were with Cain. Pay attention, therefore, to what God says to him: “Why are you angry? If you do well, will you not be accepted?”The LORD encourages Cain by saying he can improve his situation. It isn't over for him; he can do better next time. So can we. When things don't go our way, we don't have to get angry; often, there's a way to fix the problem. Unfortunately, rage clouds our judgment, and we can't see it. Neither could Cain.The LORD explains that Cain is in a dangerous position: “If you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is contrary to you, but you must rule over it.” Like a predator waiting to pounce, sin wants to devour him. The LORD commands him to rule over it. Sadly, that command was ignored, and Cain murdered his brother.“What have you done?” said the LORD, “The voice of your brother's blood is crying to me from the ground.” And from there, he cursed Cain and condemned him to be a fugitive. God could have killed Cain. Instead, He exiled him. But Cain thought it was a trap: that he was being set up, “Whoever finds me will kill me!” he cried. But it wasn't a trap. God is really that forgiving. He proved it by putting a mark of protection on Cain to spare his life.I hope your anger never causes you to sin like Cain, and that the Holy Spirit will instead work in you the strength to overcome it. But when you do sin, know this: you also have a mark of protection on you. In Holy Baptism, you have been marked as God's own child. He will not abandon you or forsake you, even if the consequences of your sin cause you to suffer for a while. There's no sin you have committed that will cut you off from God. In the book of Hebrews, the author reminds us that in coming to Christ, we come, “to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.” (12:24) Abel's blood cried out for vengeance. But the precious blood of Jesus declares grace and full forgiveness to all who trust in Him.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Abel's blood for vengeance Pleaded to the skies; But the blood of Jesus For our pardon cries. (LSB 433:4)Rev. Joel Shaltanis, pastor of Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Plano, TX.

August 16, 2026Today's Reading: Luke 18:9-14Daily Lectionary: 2 Samuel 6:1-19; 1 Corinthians 9:1-23“God, be merciful to me, a sinner!” (Luke 18:13)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.One of the many problems with being a sinner is that we are turned in on ourselves, or self-centered. We tend to talk too much about ourselves and only think of our own problems and desires. As religiously serious people, we may even become impressed with ourselves and compare ourselves to others. The Pharisee in our text is an example of this. Even when he “prays” in the temple, all he really does is talk about himself to God. If you can believe it, he lets the Almighty know how great he is! And if you are honest, I bet you can believe it because you've probably done the same thing. We all have. If we aren't careful, our prayers can also become self-centered attempts to justify ourselves, rather than humbly thanking and praising our Maker and our Savior. The main underlying problem with the Pharisee is the sin of pride. He is so proud that he cannot do anything but brag about how great he is and condemn those whom he thinks are beneath him. He thanks God that he is not like them! Contrast this with the tax collector. That man cannot even raise his head. He has sinned terribly, and he knows it. When praying to God, he is full of anguish and shame. He beats his chest. He doesn't brag about how good he is. Instead, he goes before the Lord and barely spits out the only prayer appropriate: “God, be merciful to me, a sinner!” What a contrast: a pious, upstanding religious Pharisee, and a filthy, broken tax collector. If we had seen them that day, we would have certainly thought the one who had it all together, the polished, conservative religious man, was the kind of man God would approve of. But Jesus tells us otherwise. That man was too proud to receive God's grace or mercy. He thought those things unnecessary since he was so convinced of his own goodness. But not so the Tax Collector. Although his sin was great, Jesus tells us that the one who is truly humble, broken, and relies on God was the one who went home justified. Learn from this man whom our Lord praises and learn from him to look to God to have mercy on you and forgive you all your sins for Jesus' sake.Further, ask yourself: How do I pray? With humility or pride? In your conversations with others, how often do you talk about yourself versus listening and learning from others? How might you, as a fellow broken and humble sinner, let others know about the mercy of God in Jesus?In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.I lay my sins on Jesus, The spotless Lamb of God; He bears them all and frees us From the accursed load. I bring my guilt to Jesus, To wash my crimson stains Clean in His blood most precious Till not a spot remains. (LSB 606:1)Rev. Joel Shaltanis, pastor of Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Plano, TX.

Send Us a Message or Fan MailPreacher: Pastor Adam SteinbrennerSubmit sermon questions by emailing podcast@stjohndublin.orgLink to SermonChurch Website: stjohndublin.orgChurch Center: stjohndublin.churchcenter.comThank you to Higher Things Inc. for permission to use their recording of LSB 834 “O God, O Lord of Heaven and Earth”. (leader.higherthings.org)Thank you for listening to the Post-Sermon Podcast.

August 11, 2026 Today's Reading: Romans 9:30-10:4 or 1 Corinthians 12:1-11Daily Lectionary: 1 Samuel 26:1-25; 1 Samuel 27:1-28:2; 1 Corinthians 5:1-13“For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.” (Romans 10:4)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.When I converted to Lutheranism in 2005, I was amazed by the clarity of confession and the certainty of the Lutherans I met. Though I had grown up in and around the church, I didn't understand much of what was being said; however, every time my pastor preached the stern law which crushed me and the sweetest gospel to comfort me, it overwhelmed me with joy. I understood for the first time that because Christ forgives me, I lack nothing. Tough theological questions and discussions eventually came, but one thing remained steadfastly true through it all: Christ kept me in His Divine service to receive His Gifts with exceeding joy. Justification rests in Christ alone, who gives it freely by His work, His merit.Try telling that to the people of Paul's day… try telling many in our own day, try convincing yourself of this when you're drowning in sin. Paul wrestled with a profound mystery… righteousness… justification… just what is it? Where can it be found? Paul narrows it down to just two places. People either believe it comes by what a person does, thinks, acts, and says, OR it comes by faith in the only One, Jesus, Who actually did, thought, acted, and said EVERYTHING perfectly for us.Paul knew that the law wasn't the problem; the law is good, just, and holy. The problem was that many misused it for self-justification instead of its proper use of exposing sin and killing the sinner. Article 4 of the Apology clearly states: “The Law always accuses. Therefore it does not justify, because the conscience terrified by the Law flees from the judgment of God. Faith, however, comforts and saves.” (Apology IV) The law… drives us to Christ. St. Paul taught that the Gentiles had received the righteousness of God through the preaching of the Gospel, which meant that righteousness is received and imputed to us through faith in Christ. That is a great offense to the self-righteous. The stumbling block is Christ — because He overturns all self-reliance. He fulfills the law for us. The Gospel is offensive because it freely gives what we cannot produce: forgiveness, peace with God and neighbor. Jesus alone bears the curse the Law pronounces. (Gal. 3:13) The Law is not a sentence of death, but God lovingly revealing our desperate need for Jesus. Luther writes: “The Law says, ‘Do this,' and it is never done. The Gospel says, ‘Believe this,' and everything is done already.” (Luther's Works, Vol. 26, p. 5.)In the Name + of Jesus.Let us pray: Seek Him alone, Who did atone, Who did your souls deliver. O seek Him first, all you who thirst for grace that fails you never. In every need seek Him indeed; to every heart he will impart His blessings without measure. (LSB 557:3)Rev. Adam DeGroot, pastor of Calvary Lutheran Church in Rio Rancho, NM.

August 8, 2026Today's Reading: Introit for Trinity 10 - Psalm 55:1, 4-5, 16; antiphon: Psalm 55:16a, 17b, 18a, 22aDaily Lectionary: 1 Samuel 24:1-22; 1 Corinthians 1:26-2:16“Give ear to my prayer, O God, and hide not yourself from my plea for mercy!” (Psalm 55:1)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.The Lord desires that we call upon Him in the day of trouble. That is what we learn in the opening to the Lord's Prayer. We pray not to some big, scary God up there in the heavens who has not revealed Himself to us. If that were the case, we would not begin our prayer, “Our Father…”God is our Father, which means, of course, that we are His children. And as His children, He, as our heavenly Father, desires only what is good and beneficial to us. Sometimes what is good for us is chastisement and correction, which, while in the midst of it, never feels good, but in truth always is.Other times, what is for our good is protection and release from every form of evil that would do us temporal and eternal harm. This is what we pray for in the final Petition of the Lord's Prayer. It is pretty amazing that Jesus summarizes so succinctly what we find all over the place in the Psalms!Pray to your dear Father all that which troubles your conscience and your mind. Cast your burdens upon the stripped and beaten shoulders of Christ your Lord, who has already taken them all to the cross and bore them unto His death— knowing that in the hollowness of the empty tomb, He has the victory over all of these things and has placed them inside His own grave to be buried forever!The fallenness of this broken world will not cease to assail you. Your own sinful flesh will lead you down paths not helpful, but hurtful. Satan will fight tooth and nail to rob away the proclamation of the Gospel and the forgiveness of sins that Christ has already won for you. … That is why your Lord has granted to you the Gift of prayer, that you might seek refuge under the shadow of His wing, knowing that nothing can separate you from the love of God in Christ Jesus.God, your Heavenly Father, hears your pleas for mercy and redeems your soul in safety. The verdict has already been declared as Christ called out from the cross, “It is finished!” And so know for certain that in the midst of sin and strife and death and temptation, He will sustain you through the Gifts of the cross given you in His Church! In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.O God, forsake me not! Your gracious presence lend me; Lord, lead Your helpless child; Your Holy Spirit send me That I my course may run. O be my light, my lot, My staff, my rock, my shield– O God forsake me not! (LSB 731:1)Rev. Eli Lietzau, pastor of Wheat Ridge Evangelical Lutheran Church in Wheat Ridge, CO.

August 7, 2026Today's Reading: 1 Samuel 21:1-9Daily Lectionary: 1 Samuel 21:1-9“So the priest gave him the holy bread, for there was no bread there but the bread of Presence…” (1 Samuel 21:6a)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Holy things for unholy people. That's what happens in our text for today.If you remember, David is on the run. Saul doesn't like the man; he never has since that whole Goliath thing when the crowds gave David the king's welcome. He already tried to pin David to the wall with his spear, then seemed to come to his senses by giving one of his daughters in marriage to him, then went a little crazy again and tried to devise a plot for Jonathan and his servants to murder him.David evades the assassins (with the help of Saul's son and daughter) and heads for the hills. Which brings him eventually to Nob, where the tabernacle sits, and before the High Priest Ahimelech. There are a lot of moving pieces by now, and I'm not too sure Ahimelech was all that keen on helping David out, at least not initially. But by the end of it all, David receives five loaves of the Bread of Presence.This bread was only meant for the priests. Twelve loaves were made weekly and laid before the Lord in the tabernacle. On the Sabbath, the holy priests (made holy only by the designation of God) would consume the old bread and present the new. …David was no priest. He was not consecrated as holy, and yet Ahimelech superseded the Levitical Law for the sake of David's well-being.Fast forward 1,000+ years, and Jesus uses this very example to help show that man is not made for the Sabbath, but the Sabbath is made for man. Meaning, God desires to give His good Gifts to His people despite the fact that we are unworthy to receive them. And that's the whole thing about God: He is always the one at work, always the one making us worthy, always the one giving of Himself for our good.Receiving the Gifts of God is not about cleaning yourself up first in order to make yourself worthy to receive His Gifts. If that were the case, they wouldn't be Gifts, and they wouldn't be given; they would be wages earned. But we can never earn the things of God, can never make ourselves worthy enough or holy enough. But Christ has already done that for us, for you. He, through His holy, bitter suffering and precious death, has done it all, which is what makes you worthy to receive His good Gifts of life and salvation through Word and Sacrament.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.My Lord, You here have led me To this most holy place And with Yourself have fed me The treasures of Your grace; For You have freely given What earth could never buy, The bread of life from heaven, That now I shall not die. (LSB 642:2)Rev. Eli Lietzau, pastor of Wheat Ridge Evangelical Lutheran Church in Wheat Ridge, CO.

August 6, 2026Today's Reading: Catechism: The Sacrament of Holy Baptism - 4Daily Lectionary: 1 Samuel 20:1-23; Acts 28:16-31“We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” (Romans 6:4)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Baptism isn't a one-time thing. I mean, it is…. After all, we do confess in the Creed that we believe in one Baptism for the remission of sins. But what I mean is that Baptism, your Baptism, isn't just the physical event that happened however long ago. Grammatically speaking, then, we should speak about it in the Perfect tense instead of the Past tense. Past tense means that the event is done and over with no continual ramifications into the present or future. Perfect tense, instead, is an accomplished act in the past with continuous consequences into the future. … That is why it is also best to say, “I am baptized,” instead of, “I was baptized.”And, of course, we get all of this from Scripture. Paul, in Romans, is one of the prominent places. We continually, daily, go back to our Baptism. We do this for reassurance against the crafts and assaults of the devil. But we also do this so that Old Man Adam can be drowned again and again and again. For although Old Adam was drowned on the day that you were baptized and is still drowned each and every new day of your life, he is a terribly strong swimmer. He is going to pop his head above the waves constantly, and as the New Adam baptized into Christ, it is our duty to yank him down into the depths again, holding him there until he stops struggling for the service.But this “Perfect” tense is also why we can so confidently, in the face of struggles, strife, sin, Satan, and the cemetery, know for certain that our identity is not found in our sin or in the fact that we will die because of it one day. Our identity isn't in anything that Satan wishes us to identify with; it isn't found in the fallen world or the fallen flesh. No, our identity is found in Christ!Why? Because we were buried with Him through Baptism into His death. We have been made one with the One who has already paid the price for all of our sin and has prepared his final resting place to be the final resting place of our Old Adam. And then, so too, are we raised from the dead through the glory of the Father. New Adam, today and every day. New Adam for eternity.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.I bind this day to me forever, By pow'r of faith, Christ's incarnation, His Baptism in the Jordan River, His cross of death for my salvation, His bursting from the spiced tomb, His riding up the heav'nly way, His coming at the day of doom, I bind unto myself today. (LSB 604:2)Rev. Eli Lietzau, pastor of Wheat Ridge Evangelical Lutheran Church in Wheat Ridge, CO.

Send Us a Message or Fan MailPreacher: Pastor Adam SteinbrennerSubmit sermon questions by emailing podcast@stjohndublin.orgLink to SermonChurch Website: stjohndublin.orgChurch Center: stjohndublin.churchcenter.comThank you to Higher Things Inc. for permission to use their recording of LSB 834 “O God, O Lord of Heaven and Earth”. (leader.higherthings.org)Thank you for listening to the Post-Sermon Podcast.

August 5, 2026Today's Reading: Acts 28:1-15Daily Lectionary: Acts 28:1-15“After we were brought safely through…” (Acts 28:1a)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.It had been three long years since Paul had been arrested by a Jewish mob in Jerusalem and thrown before the High Priest Ananias. The Jews had made a plot to kill him, but that plot had been foiled, and he was skirted away to Caesarea to be put under the authority of Felix, the governor. During the next 36 months, Paul would appeal to be heard by Caesar, speak in front of rulers and authorities, sail for Rome, be caught at sea by a storm, and be shipwrecked on the island of Malta.Luke begins our Reading for today with the words, “After we were brought safely through…” It was the providential will of God that Paul would not find his end at the hands of a Jewish mob in Jerusalem, but instead that he would go on proclaiming the Gospel all the way to the steps of Rome. Christ crucified would be made known throughout the world despite his imprisonment. (Dare I say even because of it?)Is it any wonder that Paul would be able to pen in Romans that, “God works all things for good for those who are called according to his purpose,” and, in 2 Corinthians, “For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”The Christian gives thanks to the Lord above for the faithful witness of His apostles. It's no mere accident that these men suffered imprisonment, torture, persecution, and martyrdom; for as Christ said, “A servant is not above his master.” But these things took place so that you and I might know what Christ is and who He is for us 2000 years after the Apostle Paul met his blessed end.God had seen Paul through all of these hardships with you in mind, so that you might “have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge.” (Ephesians 3:18-19a)The doctrine handed down by the Apostles is the very doctrine that is preached and proclaimed in your congregations. It is the foolishness of the cross, the stumbling block of a crucified Savior risen from the dead for the forgiveness of your sins. We confess these truths in the Creeds, and we receive these truths in the Divine Service. We profess these promises to the lost and fallen world around us. And we live in the grace and mercy of the Gospel until Christ comes again in glory.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.I trust, O Lord, Your holy name; O let me not be put to shame Nor let me be confounded. My faith, O Lord, Be in Your Word Forever firmly grounded. (LSB 734:1)Rev. Eli Lietzau, pastor of Wheat Ridge Evangelical Lutheran Church in Wheat Ridge, CO.

August 4, 2026Today's Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:6-13Daily Lectionary: 1 Samuel 18:10-30; Acts 27:27-44“No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Paul is presenting a typology. Fancy word, I know, but it just means that one thing is a type of another, or one thing is an example. The Church at Corinth has fallen into the same trap as the Israelites of old who wandered in the desert. Each thought that because they were God's chosen people, they could go about and live however they desired, free from judgment or temporal punishment. That is why the five examples that Paul gives in our Reading for today are each specific sins that the Corinthians are struggling with.This is a very specific warning about viewing the Gospel as a license to sin as opposed to the grace to fight against temptation. Christ and His cross has accomplished everything of the Law, and He has done it for you, but that doesn't give you permission to indulge in the sinful things of the flesh like idolatry, sexual immorality, and covetousness. … In the most simple of ways: the cross grants you forgiveness, not permission.And so against any sort of haughtiness that is prevalent in our sinful flesh, Paul urges us not to be so pompous as to think we cannot sin (v. 11). Instead, he confronts us with the reality that the sinner within the Christian is just as susceptible to temptation if he relies on his own reason or strength as the unbeliever. What is worse, the Christian has been given the Law so that he knows what loving God and loving his neighbor actually looks like. The good works of the Law are necessary for the Christian; they are just not necessary for salvation.Luther tells us, when commenting on verse 13, “‘But God is faithful, and He will not let you be tempted beyond your strength' … however different it appears to human reason and however much every temptation seems to be beyond measure and intolerable.” Call out to the Lord in the day of trouble, and He will answer you. Pray fervently to your Heavenly Father that He will stand firm in His promise to you and trust Him fully that He will do what He says.But most importantly, when you succumb to those temptations, do not despair as if you have no hope. Be forgiven for the sake of Christ and be raised to new life in your baptismal identity in Him.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.With prayer the Father we implore: O Father, glorious evermore, We plead with Thee for grace and pow'r To conquer in temptation's hour, Alleluia! On Christ, the true bread, let us feed; Let Him to us be drink indeed; And let us taste with joyfulness The Holy Spirit's plenteousness. Alleluia! ( LSB 874: 3, 5)Rev. Eli Lietzau, pastor of Wheat Ridge Evangelical Lutheran Church in Wheat Ridge, CO.

August 3, 2026Today's Reading: 2 Samuel 22:26-34Daily Lectionary: 1 Samuel 17:48-18:9; Acts 27:9-26“For you are my lamp, O Lord, and my God lightens my darkness. For by you I can run against a troop, and by my God I can leap over a wall. This God–his way is perfect; the word of the Lord proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him.” (2 Samuel 22:29-31)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.David isn't a very good man… We think quite fondly of him, and perhaps we should, but tell me, after reading through 2 Samuel, can you really come to the conclusion that David was the type of guy you would want your son to emulate? Sure, the first part of his life is pretty commendable. Humble shepherd boy who trusts in God even when all of Israel doesn't. Grappling with Goliath and with Saul alike, just in different ways. Never striving for the throne, even though it had been promised to him. Just trusting in God to protect, provide, and fulfill all that He had promised…And then that whole Bathsheba and Uriah thing happened when David was in his 40s, and the rest of his life was but double, double toil and trouble. It's amazing the dominoes that can tumble in the aftermath of adultery (and that is putting the best construction on 2 Samuel 11:1-5) and murder. David's sons go mad: they abuse their sister, kill each other, and try to commit regicide.For two long decades, David's life had been in turmoil, and yet the Lord had seen him through it for His sake alone. All that David did along the way was believe the promises of God (and even that he had trouble doing at times)... The Law would crush him, and the Gospel would revive him, and all along David would know that his salvation had nothing to do with him and everything to do with Yahweh.And so near the end of his life, only five more trips around the sun to go, David pens this song of deliverance. We find it in 2 Samuel, but it is also in Psalm 18. It is a song and a Psalm about the work of God, who He is, and who he is for David. It can and should be your song, too. For you and I are no different than that Israelite king of old: Simul Justus et Peccator, the whole lot of us. Christ is the lamp that lightens our dark world of sin, death, and the devil; our Rock and our fortress; our strong refuge, making us blameless for His sake alone!In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.O Word of God incarnate, O Wisdom from on high; O truth unchanged, unchanging, O Light of our dark sky: We praise You for the radiance That from the hallowed page, A lantern to our footsteps, Shines on from age to age. (LSB 523:1)Rev. Eli Lietzau, pastor of Wheat Ridge Evangelical Lutheran Church in Wheat Ridge, CO.

August 1, 2026Today's Reading: Introit for Trinity 9 - Psalm 54:1-3, 7; antiphon: Psalm 54:4-5Daily Lectionary: 1 Samuel 17:1-19; Acts 26:1-23“For he has delivered me from every trouble, and my eye has looked in triumph on my enemies.” (Psalm 54:7)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.A Christian has enemies. From the moment when you were baptized, you became God's child and Christ's brother. But you also inherited Christ's enemies: the devil, the world, and your flesh. Granted, none of these were extras that had to be given to you. You always had your flesh, your sinful nature. You have always been in the world. And the devil has already been around. But these became your enemies the moment God claimed you as His and sealed that claim to you by the sacrament of Baptism.Because Christians have enemies that, quite frankly, we can't escape, what can we do? We can't leave our flesh. We can't leave the world. No one can beat the devil in a footrace. But we likewise cannot fight. Our strength is too weak, our forces too scattered, our plans too clumsy. So we can't fight, and we can't run.The good news is, there is One who fights for us. And it is to Him alone we cry. In our prayers, we call upon God our loving Father through our Lord Jesus Christ. And in the faith caused by the Holy Spirit, we trust that God not only hears our prayers but answers them. God promises that even when earthly enemies rise against you, He will still be your helper and sustain you.And what is even more - not only will God help you. But He already has. Past tense. He has helped you in every trial. Your eye has looked in triumph on your enemies. For God sent His only Son to fight the enemies of the devil, the world, and your sinful nature. Here is the almighty arm of God - the crucified Jesus who dies for the sins of the world. Here is how God saves you by His name - His Son acts in God's name and by His authority as He lays down His life for the sheep. Here is how God helps you - by sending His Son to do what you could not, in your place, that by trusting in Him, you are free. And now baptized into Christ, your God has claimed you as His own and given you undying love. God is a Father who guards His dear children, His believers. And it is in Christ crucified and the Word that proclaims this and the Sacraments that convey the blessings of this, that your enemies have been defeated. God be praised.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Faint not nor fear, His arms are near; He changes not who holds you dear; Only believe, and you will see That Christ is all eternally. (LSB 664:4)Rev. Robert Mayes, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church and Zion St. John Lutheran Church, Beemer and Wisner, NE.

July 31, 2026Today's Reading: 1 Samuel 16:1-23Daily Lectionary: 1 Samuel 16:1-23; Acts 25:13-27“Whenever the harmful spirit from God was upon Saul, David took the lyre and played it with his hand. So Saul was refreshed and was well, and the harmful spirit departed from him.” (1 Samuel 16:23)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Martin Luther once observed that God's gift of music was second only to His gift of theology. For no other discipline could drive away the devil with his temptations, accusations, discouragement, and cunning. Theology could, as you would expect. But music does, too. We see that with David, whose music drove away the harmful spirit that troubled Saul.Luther was right in calling music a powerful gift of God. Seeing how music can drive away sadness (and harmful spirits, too!), just think how much more powerful music is when it joins God's Word. To prove this, go hear hymns sung at Higher Things conferences online. That's power. But the power of music is nothing compared to the Word, for God the Holy Spirit has promised He will work by the Word to bring people to faith in Christ. He has not promised this for music in itself.Music in the church can be a fine vehicle for the Word to come in, but the Word always must be the driver. Like a car rolling down the road without a driver, so music leads to wrecks when theology doesn't guide it. Therefore, church music promotes Jesus and His true teaching. It does not promote the performers, the soloist, or itself. This is why musicians were traditionally placed in the back of the church or in a special side section of the sanctuary. The focus was not on the musicians, in other words. It was on Christ and His Word. This is also why we don't clap in church. The music is for God's glory, not man's. God can clap if He wants to.The best church music strengthens faith by its excellent teaching. Faith clings to Jesus who lived perfectly for you, died in your place, and rose from the dead. Church music should be churchly. It should gladly proclaim the free justification of sinners. Even in its notes and rhythms, church music should resemble our Lord who was not part of His culture, but ran counter to what His culture said. So music for God should be countercultural, reflecting the culture of heaven. We do not want music in the church to sound like what's popular now - we want music that's timeless. Does your favorite hymn sing Christ boldly? I hope so! I hope the music in your church supports the teaching of God's Word and doesn't water it down. That way, God's Word is taught even better, and the devil must flee.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Alleluia! Sing to Jesus, His the scepter, His the throne; Alleluia! His the triumph, His the victory alone. Hark! The songs of peaceful Zion Thunder like a mighty flood: ‘Jesus out of ev'ry nation Has redeemed us by His blood.' (LSB 821:1)Rev. Robert Mayes, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church and Zion St. John Lutheran Church, Beemer and Wisner, NE.

July 30, 2026Today's Reading: Catechism: The Sacrament of Holy Baptism- Third PartDaily Lectionary: 1 Samuel 15:10-35; Acts 24:24-25:12“How can water do such great things? Certainly not just water, but the Word of God in and with the water does these things, along with the faith which trusts this Word of God in the water. For without God's Word the water is plain water and no Baptism. But with the Word of God it is a Baptism, that is, a life-giving water, rich in grace, and a washing of the new birth in the Holy Spirit, as St. Paul says in Titus, chapter 3: ‘He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by His grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. This is a trustworthy saying” (Titus 3:5-8, quoted in the Catechism: Holy Baptism- Third Part)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Water alone gets you wet. It has no power to save. In this, Lutherans agree with other Protestants. They say that simple water can't make you God's child, or give the Holy Spirit, or forgive, or establish you in a new, godly life. To that, Lutherans say, “You're right. Simple water can't do that.”But Baptism is more than just simple water, just as God's Word added with the water is more than just a simple word. God's Word does things. God's Word works. The washing of water with the Word gives us a new birth as God's children, a renewal of life that had been corrupted by sin, and it is a means of salvation.Why is it that simply speaking words over this water actually connects the Word to the water? You can read Holy Scripture over many other things - textbooks, your locker, your game system, and the Word is not joined to those things. But we say God's Word is joined to the water of Baptism. Why is this? Remember, Jesus is also called “the Word of God” (John 1:1). As “the Word of God,” Jesus stood in the water at His own baptism. There, God called Jesus His beloved Son. The Holy Spirit was given to Him. And Jesus took His place among sinful men, that He might redeem sinful men. Because the Word of God - Jesus - was joined to that water then, so this same Word of God, Jesus, is also joined to the water of Baptism now. The Baptismal words of God also bring along the Incarnate Word of God, Jesus, who joins the two together. And there, God reveals Himself as your Father, Christ as your brother, the Holy Spirit as your treasure.Thus, the water of Baptism is more than just simple water. As the Catechism says, it is indeed “a life-giving water, rich in grace.”In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Miracle each time it happens As the door to heaven opens And the Father beams, ‘Beloved, Heir of gifts a king would covet! (LSB 593:2)Rev. Robert Mayes, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church and Zion St. John Lutheran Church, Beemer and Wisner, NE.

July 28, 2026Today's Reading: Acts 20:27-38 or Romans 8:12-17Daily Lectionary: 1 Samuel 13:1-18; Acts 23:12-35“For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, ‘Abba! Father!'” (Romans 8:15)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Were your ancestors slaves? Believe it or not, everyone should say yes. It doesn't matter who your parents are, or your family lineage, or where your ancestors came from. All people, since the Fall into sin, were born as slaves of sin. Just as a child born to slaves on a plantation was also a slave, so a child born to sinners is also a slave to sin. And that means everyone except Jesus. You included.A slave does the will of his master. In the case of sin, the slave continues to sin. Willfully, intentionally, or simply because he can't help himself, the slave to sin feeds his sinful nature and sets his mind on the things of the flesh. That includes pornography, revenge, sinful pride instead of humble helping of others, rebellion against proper authorities, and self-righteousness. One cannot set his mind on doing such things and live before God. He is a slave, chained to his sin, and gladly serving it.Jesus, however, came to set slaves of sin free. To do this, He first had to break the chains of sins. He had to live as the substitute in the place of sinners, and yet give up this perfect life to suffer the punishment for all sin. Christ Jesus has taken your place in death, which your sins deserved, and now is risen from the dead and proclaims you right with God. This is not because of how deserving you are, but simply out of God's great mercy and love to redeem sinners, a mercy rooted in Jesus.To set slaves free from sins, Jesus also sent the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit brings Christ's righteousness to us and creates faith in the heart that receives this righteousness. From faith in Christ, the Holy Spirit also leads and compels believers to what the Lutheran Confessions call “the new obedience.” Yes, we are to do good works. The phrase “good works” is not inherently bad. We just realize that good works are the fruits of faith, not the cause of faith. The Holy Spirit given to us allows us to set our minds on the things of the Spirit, which includes all of faith and a godly life. Therefore, we are adopted by God as His dear children, whom we cry out to in our prayers. What slave to sin can do this? But you are not a slave to sin. Therefore, set your mind on the things of the Spirit.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Though He giveth or He taketh, God His children ne'er forsaketh; His the loving purpose solely To preserve them pure and holy. (LSB 725:4)Rev. Robert Mayes, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church and Zion St. John Lutheran Church, Beemer and Wisner, NE.

July 24, 2026Today's Reading: Introit for Trinity 8 - Psalm 48:1, 3, 11, 14; antiphon: Psalm 48:9-10Daily Lectionary: 1 Samuel 8:1-22; Acts 21:15-36“As your name, O God, so your praise reaches to the ends of the earth. Your right hand is filled with righteousness.” (Psalm 48:10)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. “Praise” gets met with hesitancy too much in our little pocket of Lutheranism. Yesterday's reflection was about the dangers of enthusiasm. There are places where an insistence on praise goes awry. Measuring praise as a feeling and insisting that the only right expression of faith is joy and gratitude is dangerous. There are Psalms of lament, too. Faithful Christians hurt, worry, and weep this side of glory. It isn't a question of whether or not we should feel these things. It's a question of whether or not there's a place to take them. Bring them to Jesus. This is actually right praise. Praise is not measured by how much you feel gratitude. Praise is an expression of judgment. God has done something good. Here's the thing about praise, and why we hesitate too quickly when it comes to praise. You can't praise God unless He's first done something for you. To praise God is to first recognize what He has done. God only does that which is good. So everything God does is praiseworthy, even when you also need to lament something. Praise doesn't mean everything around you feels good. Praise means God has worked good in everything around you. And the only way this is possible to see is through the lens of the cross. Nothing looks praiseworthy there, but it's the most praiseworthy act of all time. The cross is the reason God is always working good for us. He has redeemed you. He is not punishing you or casting you off. Even if you hurt now. He has promised to work all things for your good. So there is reason to praise Him even if we don't feel it, and even if it needs to be joined to a psalm of lament. As God's name goes out into the ends of the earth, it brings praise, because His right hand, where Christ is seated, is filled with righteousness. He who is seated at the right hand of the Father makes you righteous by His death. He has died for all. So let His name and so His praise reach the ends of the earth. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; Praise Him, all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heav'nly host: Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. (LSB 805)Rev. Harrison Goodman, Executive Director of Mission and Theology for Higher Things.

What happens when someone leaves everything behind to follow Jesus Christ?In this powerful episode of the Man Up God's Way Podcast, Jody Burkeen sits down with Shahriq Khan, a former Muslim whose life was radically transformed by the gospel of Jesus Christ. Shahriq shares his remarkable testimony, the cost of following Christ, and his passion for proclaiming the truth of God's Word to a world that desperately needs hope.Together, they discuss what it means to stand firm in biblical truth, boldly proclaim Jesus Christ, and remain faithful even when following Him comes with sacrifice. Shahriq offers personal insights into his journey from Islam to Christianity, practical wisdom for evangelism, and encouragement for every believer to move beyond comfort and live on mission for God's kingdom.Whether you're seeking to grow in your faith, become more confident in sharing the gospel, or be challenged to live wholeheartedly for Christ, this conversation will encourage and equip you.In this episode you'll discover: Shahriq's journey from Islam to faith in Jesus Christ. The cost and joy of following Christ. Why every Christian is called to make disciples. How to boldly share your faith with confidence and compassion. Remaining faithful in a culture that opposes biblical truth. Practical encouragement to live as a disciple of Christ every day. If this episode encourages you, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this message."Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit." (Matthew 28:19, LSB)

Teleskop Jamesa Webba przynosi nam wyzwania wobec aktualnie obowiązujących teorii (i mniej więcej, dlatego został wysłany w kosmos). To ten teleskop zaobserwował galaktykę powstałą raptem 280 milionów lat po Wielkim Wybuchu. Niejaka MOM-z14 zaskakuje swoją jasnością i zawartością chemiczną – krótko mówiąc, jest nie taka jak byśmy się spodziewali. I to tylko jedna z zagadek współczesnej nauki o galaktykach, a opowiada o nich w Radiu Naukowym dr Anna Durkalec z NCBJ.

July 23, 2026Today's Reading: Catechism: The Sacrament of Holy Baptism - 2Daily Lectionary: 1 Samuel 6:19-7:17; Acts 19:23-21:14; Acts 19:1-22What benefits does Baptism give?It works forgiveness of sins, rescues from death and the devil, and gives eternal salvation to all who believe this, as the words and promises of God declare.Which are these words and promises of God?Christ our Lord says in the last chapter of Mark: “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” (Mark 16:16)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.The devil wants you to think of your Baptism as a symbol, insisting that you place your faith in Jesus and not in water. It's because the devil wants to make Jesus impossible to find when you need Him. A Jesus whom you trust to save you but can't when you need Him to is pretty terrible. Because if you can't find Jesus in the water, you have to find Him in your heart. On your good days, that's not so bad. When everyone sings the hymns, and you sing along and feel uplifted, strong, and steadfast, that's great. On the bad days, it's demonic, though. Because on the bad days, when you need Jesus the most, when you don't feel uplifted or strong or steadfast, if you try to measure Jesus in your heart, He feels missing. When you look in your heart for Jesus, whenever you need Him the most, He feels the farthest away. It's called enthusiasm, and I hate it. You should, too. Instead of looking in your heart for Jesus, look in the font. Jesus saves. But it isn't that Jesus saves so Baptism doesn't. It's that Jesus saves you through Baptism. The Bible says Jesus alone saves you. The Bible also says Baptism now saves you (1 Peter 3:21). Instead of insisting that God contradicts Himself and dismissing the sacrament, recognize HOW God saves you, and even why. It's not from your heart or measured in your heart. It's for your heart. Now, when you wrestle with guilt and shame, when you feel low and far from God, you have the promise of something near. You were drowned in salvation. You exist today as the Scriptures say. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.In Baptism we now put on Christ— Our shame is fully covered With all that He once sacrificed And freely for us suffered. For here the flood of His own blood Now makes us holy, right, and good Before our heav'nly Father. (LSB 596:4)Rev. Harrison Goodman, Executive Director of Mission and Theology for Higher Things.

From Felony to Freedom | The Powerful Testimony of Christopher BrownWhat happens when a man who was trapped in gangs, violence, addiction, organized crime, and prison encounters the saving grace of Jesus Christ?In this powerful episode, Jody Burkeen sits down with Christopher Brown to hear one of the most remarkable testimonies you'll ever hear. Christopher shares how a childhood filled with chaos and dysfunction led him into a life of crime that ultimately resulted in more than five years in prison, including time in maximum security and over ten months in solitary confinement.After his release, the cycle of destruction continued through addiction, broken relationships, spiritual darkness, and violence until a life-altering event changed everything. Following a near-death experience in which he died twice and was placed into a medically induced coma, Christopher came face-to-face with the reality that life apart from God is complete separation and hopelessness.In 2020, Jesus Christ radically transformed his life.Today, the man who once lived for the world now lives to proclaim the Gospel. God has taken Christopher from felony to freedom, from prison to purpose, and from darkness into the light of Christ. His journey has led him to a calling in West Africa, where he and his wife are preparing for long-term missions work, sharing the hope of Jesus with people who have never heard the Gospel.In this episode, you'll hear: Christopher's journey from crime, gangs, and prison. How a near-death experience became a turning point in his life. The moment he surrendered his life to Jesus Christ. How God called him into missions in West Africa. Why no one is beyond the reach of God's grace. If you've ever wondered whether God can redeem a broken life, this conversation is a powerful reminder that no one is too far gone for the transforming power of the Gospel.Connect with Christopher BrownIf you'd like to learn more about Christopher's ministry or partner with his mission through prayer or financial support, be sure to listen through the end of the episode for more information.Subscribe to the Man Up God's Way Podcast for more conversations that challenge men to follow Jesus Christ, lead courageously, and live with biblical purpose."Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come." (2 Corinthians 5:17, LSB)

July 21, 2026Today's Reading: Romans 6:19-23Daily Lectionary: 1 Samuel 4:1-22; Acts 17:1-34; Acts 16:23-40“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Calling the faithful “slaves of God” in the year of our Lord 2025 feels uncomfortable. It feels like it needs a lot of context for what it isn't. Paul doesn't give it. Instead of his next words justifying the hyperbole, he justifies the sinner. He doesn't minimize what slavery looks like. He just asks us to consider how freedom in regard to righteousness actually goes. You are either slaves to sin or slaves to God because you're not actually God. To Paul, it's not even a question of ability. It's a question of whether or not it would be a good thing if you were. If you actually were the most powerful being in the universe…how would that go? Back before you belonged to God, what fruit were you getting at that time from the things of which you are now ashamed? For the end of those things is death. It's your death because you're not God. But if you were, how would it not just be someone else's death who got in your way? Instead of arguing over whether or not your sinful flesh is powerful enough to escape the grave, Paul asks whether or not having sinful flesh is good in the first place. Whether it be your death or the death of everyone who got in your way, God would rather it be His. The wages of sin is death, and so He pays it for you. The free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. You are not free. You have a Lord. There are other lords. Many try to be lords themselves. But yours is the one who lays down His life to save yours. Rather than bickering about who's in charge, Paul points to the results—your salvation. You are not free in regard to righteousness. You are not free to sin. You are free from it, though. You are free from death. On the Last Day, you will rise. You are even free from having to deal with all the enemies in your way to live. Sin. Death. The power of the devil. All come undone in Him who owns you and treats you as a treasure. Calling the faithful “slaves of God” was never a comfortable statement. It was never supposed to be. Rather, Paul lets our comfort be in Him who sets us free from death. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.When You woke that Thursday morning, Savior, teacher, faithful friend, Thoughts of self and safety scorning, Knowing how the day would end; Lamb of God, foretold for ages, Now at last the hour had come When but One could pay sin's wages: You assumed their dreadful sum. (LSB 445:1) Rev. Harrison Goodman, Executive Director of Mission and Theology for Higher Things.

July 20, 2026Today's Reading: Genesis 2:7-17Daily Lectionary: 1 Samuel 3:1-21; Acts 16:1-22“but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.” (Genesis 2:17)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.There's this Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, where if you eat it, you die in the Garden of Eden. And that kinda feels messed up. Is it a good tree? God said yes. We're not sure. We tend to think that if it's not a trap, it's at least a test. Which says plenty about what you actually think about the God who put it there. We still think He's, if not setting traps for us, at least testing us.A loving God doesn't "test" us with death any more than I, who love you less than God, would test whether or not you remember how a fire drill works by lighting the building on fire. Also, an all-knowing God would know this whole thing plays out poorly. What if the Tree that God called Good was not a test or a trap? What if He called it good because it was given with a good purpose, to reveal who God is? To teach Adam and Eve that all of evil should be contained on a tree for man to behold and know the peace of not having to die because God bore the sin that would kill them for them? What if the tree was good because it was the very first church? Adam and Eve could worship here, celebrate the mystery of the God who hangs evil on the tree that they would not die. The thing is, mystery is only good if you trust the guy behind the curtain. But if the tree wasn't a good thing, then it's pretty solid proof God who put it there wasn't so good either. This is how the serpent tempted. But God met them in the garden, not to destroy, but to promise a child born of woman to hang on a second tree to crush the head of the serpent forever. God saw the tree in the garden. God saw the tragedy that changed you forever. God saw everything that's gone wrong since and hated it too. So He assumes it. Climbs down from heaven to walk up the hill of Golgotha and die on the cross. For you. For them. For those who have faced the tragedies that leave us speechless and bitter and broken. For the forgiveness of all your sins. Your quiet mistrust. Your open rebellion. Jesus died for that. Because God still insists on gathering up all the evil in the world and hanging it on the tree so that death would have no power over us and sin would not define us. Look at the tree of the cross and call it good, because this is who your God is. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.What mercy God showed to our race, A plan of rescue by His grace: In sending One from woman's seed, The One to fill our greatest need— For on a tree uplifted high His only Son for sin would die, Would drink the cup of scorn and dread To crush the ancient serpent's head! (LSB 561:3)Rev. Harrison Goodman, Executive Director of Mission and Theology for Higher Things.

July 18, 2026Today's Reading: Introit for Trinity 7 - Psalm 47:3, 6-8; antiphon: Psalm 47:1-2Daily Lectionary: 1 Samuel 1:21-2:17; Galatians 6:1-18“God reigns over the nations; God sits on his holy throne.” (Psalm 47:8)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.What does it mean that God reigns over the nations? Does it mean He seeks power over all to control the people of the world? Or is it a declaration of His love for all of creation, and even as sin continues to wreck the world and Satan and his minions ravage and destroy, there is a God, and He hears the cries of those who suffer? It is true: the Lord reigns over all. He is the Almighty. His will is done whether we like it or not. Our God is all-powerful and deserving of worship, as the psalmist says. The Lord sits on His holy throne, and sinners cannot approach Him. Evil cannot stand against Him. This is our God. We can take comfort in knowing the God of all has made Himself known to us. But the all-knowing, all-powerful, all-present God uses His “God-ness” to do wonderful things. God reigns over the nations on His holy throne, not to bring power to Christians but to forgive sinners.From His holy throne, He descended, taking on human flesh to make Himself known to all nations. He came not as a mighty ruler but as a servant. God heard the cries of hurting people from the time of Adam and Eve's first sin. To heal the open wound of a sinful, broken world, He sent forth His only Son. And this good news, this Gospel is not just for one people or nation, but for all people, that many more may come to faith in Christ. Even while the Lord sits on His holy throne, those who are in Christ are not excluded from His presence. Having been made holy, we will see the Lord in all His glory on the Last Day, when all nations and peoples will bow and proclaim the name of the Lord. The Lord our God is mighty and reigns over the nations. He calls them to Himself, that they may remain in His house forever. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.What God's almighty pow'r has made, in mercy He is keeping. By morning glow or evening shade His eye is never sleeping. Within the kingdom of His might all things are just and good and right: to God all praise and glory!” (LSB 819:2)Deac. Emma Heinz, registrar for Higher Things.

July 17, 2026Today's Reading: 1 Samuel 1:1-20Daily Lectionary: 1 Samuel 1:1-20; Galatians 5:1-26“Then Eli answered, ‘Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition that you have made to him.'” (1 Samuel 1:17)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Hannah's prayer is for a child - and not even for a child she will keep and raise, but one she will give to the Lord for His service. She is burdened by her bareness and even tormented for it by her husband's other wife. So she prays to the Lord, seeking comfort and peace. Prayer, in any circumstance, is chiefly about comfort. It is a gift of God given to those who would seek refuge in Him. Hannah knows the Lord will hear her and has the power to grant her petition. Eli's benediction to Hannah is further comfort. Eli did not, in that moment, call upon God, of his own accord, to be the baby delivery guy, but to give comfort to a hurting soul—a soul burdened by sin and its effects. Eli, a priest, the shepherd of God's people, gives her comfort and peace. In that moment, God's Word was spoken to Hannah, and she would return to Eli with her son, Samuel, in due time. God's will was accomplished. It might be tempting to see this account as proof that if you pray hard enough or feel deep enough, God will hear your prayer and grant it. This turns God into more of a vending machine rather than the Almighty God, but what do you do when prayers go “unanswered?” Understand that “unanswered” is in quotes. God answers prayer, always, even when the answer isn't what we'd prefer. Our prayers do not sway Him; His good and gracious will is always done among us. His good and gracious will was to grant Hannah a son, who would grow into the faithful prophet and priest, Samuel. We don't know how many times Hannah, or her husband for that matter, prayed about her barrenness. But she knew that God heard every cry to Him and He would, in His time, answer her.When you are burdened by suffering or hardship or sin, call out to your heavenly father. He hears you. And when you have groanings too deep for words, He still hears you and sees you. Hannah's prayer was made in faith and made in something greater than a spiritual vending machine. The God of Israel is your God, who made heaven and earth, sent His Son to redeem creation, and gives the Holy Spirit that we might be first and foremost, reconciled to God, and also comforted in our affliction because God has given us His forgiveness and peace.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Though He giveth or He taketh, God His children ne'er forsaketh; His the loving purpose solely to preserve them pure and holy. (LSB 725:4)Deac. Emma Heinz, registrar for Higher Things.

July 16, 2026Today's Reading: Catechism: The Sacrament of Holy Baptism - 1Daily Lectionary: Judges 16:4-30; Judges 17:1-21:25; Galatians 4:12-31“Baptism is not simply water, but it is the water included in God's command, and combined with God's Word.” (Luther's Small Catechism)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Water is necessary for life. Water helps plants grow, so all living creatures have something to eat. Staying hydrated is important, too, so drink more water, kids! Water cleans things by washing away dirt. Water also has a great capacity for destruction. Too much rain leads to flooding, mighty tides of water that pummel everything they crash into, leaving devastation in its wake. Rough water can drag a person down into the deep to drown and die. Tsunamis, hurricanes, and floods are all deadly. They are an example of how broken and sinful the world has become. Instead of bringing life, it ends it. All of creation is no longer “good,” but tainted by sin and death. All things wither and die. Our sinful nature compels us to do harm to our neighbors and ourselves. The devil, the world, and our sinful flesh hate God, wanting nothing to do with him. We turn good gifts into weapons against the life God would have us defend and uphold. But God takes what is broken, sinful, and dying and makes new life. He creates abundant life in the midst of death, decay, and destruction. So, then, water, when combined with the Word of God, becomes a source of resurrection—a place where Christians are made. God names you in His Triune Name, marking you as one whom death has no claim over. Your sins are washed away, and a new, clean robe is given to you. The stain of sin, taken on by Christ, is no longer yours to bear. Jesus takes our sin and drowns it, burying it and leaving it behind. God restores life to where death and sin reigned. Water is necessary for life, and it is this creation of God, paired with His Word, that gives us life eternal. The Word of God, which spoke everything into existence, in Baptism, now calls the dead sinner to life, out of the waters and into light.  In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.“Though around us death is seething, God, His two-edged sword unsheathing, by His Spirit life is breathing through the living active Word.” (LSB 597:4)Deac. Emma Heinz, registrar for Higher Things.

July 15, 2026Today's Reading: Galatians 3:23-4:11Daily Lectionary: Judges 15:1-16:3; Galatians 3:23-4:11“For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's offspring, heirs according to promise.” (Galatians 3:27–29)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Baptism makes all equal in the eyes of God. Baptism makes us one with Christ, as we are united with Him in a death like His and in a resurrection like His. We all stand before God as justified, redeemed, and sanctified. We are all descendants of Abraham as heirs of the promise. The Jews believed it was their earthly, blood relation to Abraham that made them God's people. Their people had followed God's commands and observed all His statutes. This is why many of the Jewish Christians demanded that the Gentiles be circumcised - so they might be included in Abraham's line. The emphasis was on works of the law. In the minds of the “circumcision party,” the Greeks had to become Jewish before they could really be saved. St. Paul's point is that once a person is baptized into Christ, nothing else matters before God. Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision matters before God. Your ethnic background doesn't have a say in your salvation, nor your sex, nor your status in this life. This is because when God looks at you, He sees an heir according to the promise the Lord made to Abraham, “in you will all nations be blessed.” This promised offspring was the Messiah, Jesus, Who would come through Abraham's lineage. Abraham's offspring would bless the nations by redeeming them - all people were redeemed through Jesus' death on the cross. So when a person is baptized, they are united to Christ and indistinguishable from any other Christian. And this Baptism is a free Gift, not tied to any work performed by us. God calls you His child, an heir of eternal life through the promise made to Abraham and fulfilled in Christ Jesus, your Lord. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.In Baptism we now put on Christ - our shame is fully covered with all that HE once sacrificed and freely for us suffered. For here the flood of His own blood now makes us holy, right and good before our heav'nly Father. (LSB 596:4)Deac. Emma Heinz, registrar for Higher Things.

July 14, 2026Today's Reading: Romans 6:(1-2) 3-11Daily Lectionary: Judges 14:1-20; Galatians 3:1-22“What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it?” (Romans 6:1–2)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.St. Paul is responding to a general vibe of “Well, if all sin is forgiven, then I can do whatever I want.” His “by no means” is a polite way of saying, “That's not how this works. That's not how ANY of this works!” What does it mean, then, when he says, “How can we who died to sin still live in it?” He's talking about Baptism, where the old sinful self is drowned, and the new Adam is raised to life. We have been united to Jesus in a death like His that we might have a resurrection like His. Paul's point is that once a person comes to faith, everything is different. They do not act the same way or think the same way because the Holy Spirit is now working sanctification in them. What he means is this: Christians should act a certain way because Christians look a certain way - they follow a pattern. This pattern is coming from and returning to the gifts of Christ, freely given to sinners. Christians should not live in open sin - nor should they encourage others to do so. We are not competing to see who can be forgiven by God the most amount of times. That won't end well, and it's not a true representation of God's people. We do know that even while the Baptized are sanctified saints of God, we are still sinners, and we will be in need of Jesus' forgiveness until we die. But don't go out trying to be the chief of sinners. Live as one dead to sin and alive to Christ. Live the baptismal grace of God, that all your doings, being ordered by His governance, may be righteous in His sight. You have been made new. The sin and brokenness inherent in you have been paid for by the death and resurrection of Christ. Rejoice, dear Christian, for, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.“Christ Jesus is the ground of faith, Who was made flesh and suffered death; all then who trust in Him alone are built on this chief cornerstone.” (LSB 571:2)Deac. Emma Heinz, registrar for Higher Things.

July 13, 2026Today's Reading: Exodus 20:1-17Daily Lectionary: Judges 13:1-25; Ruth 1:1-4:22; Galatians 2:1-21 “I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.” (Exodus 20:2)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.The Lord tells His people Who He is and what He has done for them. He brought them out of Egypt, which included preserving them from the plagues, bringing them through the Red Sea on dry ground, saving them from Pharaoh's pursuing army, and providing them with bread from heaven and water from a rock. All of this was done so that they might be freed from the house of slavery. And now that God has brought them to the wilderness, He sets before them His Commandments. The Commandments tell us what God wants for His people. He wants to be their God alone. He wants them to love their neighbors as themselves. He desires His will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. The law of God is always good, even when we do not feel good about it. As you and I know, and as the Israelites constantly showed through their time in the wilderness, we break God's law. We sin. We choose to do evil instead of good. St. Paul even says we can't do good, even if we wanted to. We are, in Paul's words, “slaves to sin.” The people in the wilderness, while no longer slaves to the Egyptians, were still slaves to sin. But God did not leave them in that house of slavery either, nor has He left us to die in the house of slavery. The hope of the Israelites and the hope of us now is in the Messiah - the Savior Who breaks the power of sin, death, and the devil. In Christ, we are no longer slaves to sin but slaves to righteousness. Our sinful flesh still wages war against us, but in Christ, we are strengthened to see the Law of God as a benefit, even when it accuses us. God's will is that sinners would be forgiven. When the law presses heavily on your heart, go and receive Christ's forgiveness from your pastor. Following God's law will not save you, but Jesus already has. He is the Lord, your God, who brought you out of the house of slavery that you might live in Him, eternally. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.To Jesus we for refuge flee, Who from the curse has set us free, and humbly worship at His throne, saved by His grace through faith alone. (LSB 579:6)Deac. Emma Heinz, registrar for Higher Things.

July 11, 2026Today's Reading: Introit for Trinity 6 - Psalm 28:1-2, 7; antiphon: Psalm 28:8-9Daily Lectionary: Judges 6:25-40; Acts 15:6-21“Save Your people, And bless Your inheritance; Shepherd them also, And bear them up forever” (Psalm 28:9) In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. In Psalm 28:9, David prays that God would save his “people” and bless his “heritage.” He then adds the image of a shepherd and his flock: “Be their shepherd and carry them forever.” Psalm 23 and John 10 immediately come to mind. Yet what about this image of a “heritage” or “inheritance?” How can we, God's people, be called his inheritance? Throughout Scripture, “inheritance” typically refers to the gift or portion that God gives to His people—first, the land of promise, and ultimately, eternal life in Christ. God himself is also his chosen people's inheritance:“I am your portion and your inheritance” (Numbers 18:20).“The Lord is my portion” (Lamentations 3:24).“Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world” (Matthew 25:34).“In him we have obtained an inheritance” (Ephesians 1:11). Yet here in Psalm 28:9, the relationship is reversed—God's people are called his heritage! How can this be? After Moses ascended Mount Sinai a second time to receive the tablets of the Law, he prayed, “Take us for your inheritance.” Likewise, Moses wrote, “The Lord has taken you … to be a people of his own inheritance” (Deuteronomy 4:20). St. Peter takes up this same theme when he declares, “You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession” (1 Peter 2:9), and St. Paul prays that believers may know “the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints” (Ephesians 1:18). Paul also joins this “heritage” and “shepherd” imagery in his charge to the Ephesian elders: “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock … the church of God, which he purchased with his own blood” (Acts 20:28). This is how we become God's inheritance! He has purchased his flock with his own holy blood! Psalm 74:2 echoes the same truth: “Remember your congregation, which you have purchased of old, which you have redeemed to be the tribe of your heritage!”   We are God's heritage—his treasured possession. He has purchased us with his own blood, sealed us with his name, and joined us to his death and resurrection in Holy Baptism. We are his, and he is ours. Where he is, there we shall be also. He is the Vine, and we are the branches. Will God be silent to us? Will he turn his face away and ignore our pleas for mercy? No—“The Lord is my strength and shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped” (Psalm 28:7). In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. He never shall forsake His flock, His chosen generation; He is their refuge and their rock, Their peace and their salvation. As with a mother's tender hand, He leads His own, His chosen band: To God all praise and glory! (LSB 819:4)Rev. David Woelmer, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church, Smithville, Texas. 

July 10, 2026Today's Reading: Acts 14:19-15:5Daily Lectionary: Judges 6:1-24; Acts 14:19-15:5“Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God” (Acts 14:22) In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. After preaching the Gospel to both Jews and Greeks in Iconium, Paul remained there a while, “speaking boldly in the Lord” (Acts 14:3), before departing for Lystra. However, a great number of both Jews and Greeks believed that Satan shot his flaming darts through the “poison” of the unbelieving Jews. He sowed the seeds of division and violence, stirring up some Gentiles and Jews to stone Paul and Barnabas. Upon learning of this, they fled to Lystra and Derbe. Yet some Jews pursued him, coming from Antioch and Iconium to persuade the crowds to stone Paul. What God said to Ananias concerning Paul came true: “I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name” (Acts 9:16). He is afflicted by such violence, but is he crushed? He is perplexed by unbelief, but is he despairing? He is persecuted, but is he forsaken? He is struck down and even assumed dead (Acts 14:19), but is he destroyed? Not at all—for the very life of Jesus is manifested in his earthly body. The power of Christ rests upon him in his weakness. He shares Christ's suffering and becomes like him in his death. So, after arising and entering the city with the disciples, he journeys onward to Derbe the very next day. He is not crushed but renewed. He is not driven to despair but filled with hope. He is not forsaken but filled with the Spirit. He is not destroyed but strengthened for the work God has called him to do. Each trial becomes an occasion for endurance, for building character, and for rejoicing in the promise of God's eternal glory. After preaching the gospel to Derbe, he again returns to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, “strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God” (Acts 14:22). What an encouragement! Elders are appointed for ministry in the church, and the hearts of the faithful are committed to the Lord through prayer and fasting. From Pisidia to Antioch, the Word of God takes root, and a door of faith is opened to the Gentiles (Acts 14:27). In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. My walk is heav'nward all the way; Await, my soul, the morrow, When God's good healing shall allay All suff'ring, sin, and sorrow. Then, worldly pomp, begone! To heav'n I now press on. For all the world I would not stay; My walk is heav'nward all the way. (LSB 716:6)Rev. David Woelmer, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church, Smithville, Texas. 

July 9, 2026Today's Reading: Catechism: The Lord's Prayer - The ConclusionDaily Lectionary: Judges 4:1-24; Judges 5:1-31; Acts 14:1-18“He Himself has commanded us to pray in this way and has promised to hear us.” In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. When Jesus teaches the disciples the Lord's Prayer in Luke 11, he not only teaches them what to pray for, but also how to pray. There, he tells the parable of a man who goes to his friend at midnight asking for bread. The friend's door is shut, his whole family is asleep, and he says, “Do not bother me; I cannot get up and give you anything.” Yet Jesus says that when this friend finally helps, it will not be because of their friendship, but because of the man's impudence— his shameless persistence. Because he keeps asking and knocking, his friend will give him what he needs. Jesus then gives the how of prayer: ask, seek, and knock. “Ask, and it will be given to you.” And if it is not given to you, “seek, and you will find.” Seek again the wisdom of God's Word, and discover what the Lord has given you to pray for. Then “knock, and it will be opened to you.” Be that man who persistently knocks on his friend's door at midnight. Pray always. Jesus wants us to bother him, to pester him with our prayers, to knock and keep knocking. Finally, Jesus compares prayer to the relationship between a father and his child. If a son asks for a fish, will his father give him a serpent? Or if he asks for an egg, will he hand him a scorpion? Of course not. So, Jesus concludes: “If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?” The Father delights to hear our requests and answer them. He has commanded us to pray and has promised to hear us. Yet Jesus doesn't want us to think of prayer mechanically, as though God listens only because of our many repetitions. When he tells the parable of the persistent widow in Luke 18, it is “to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart.” If this widow persevered and “prayed always,” trusting that her persistence would move even an unjust judge to grant her justice, how much more should we persevere in prayer and “not lose heart,” we who call upon the God who delights to give justice to his elect? If the “judge of unrighteousness” granted justice at last, will not the “Judge of all righteousness” bring justice to his elect? That is why we pray both day and night, confident in his mercy and steadfast love. We won't receive justice because we persevere in prayer; we persevere in prayer because we know that God will give us justice. And if he delays, we remember that even his delay is for our good—to strengthen our faith. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. Amen, that is, so shall it be. Make strong our faith in You, that we May doubt not but with trust believe That what we ask we shall receive. Thus in Your name and at Your Word We say, “Amen, O hear us, Lord!” (LSB 766:9)Rev. David Woelmer, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church, Smithville, Texas. 

July 8, 2026Today's Reading: Acts 13:42-52Daily Lectionary: Judges 3:7-31; Acts 13:42-52“I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth” (Acts 13:47)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.What were “these things” that those in Antioch to whom Paul preached wanted to hear about the next Sabbath? What are “these things” that Paul preached, which stirred the Jews and proselytes to follow Paul and Barnabas? Put simply, “these things” are the great works of God. Paul preached in Acts 13:17-41 that God chose the patriarchs and multiplied his people during their sojourn in Egypt. With an uplifted arm, he led them out of bondage, patiently enduring their stubbornness in the wilderness. He destroyed the seven nations in Canaan and gave his people the Promised Land as an inheritance. He raised up judges to lead them until the time of Samuel the prophet. When the people demanded a king, he gave them Saul, and when Saul proved unfaithful, God raised up David—a man after his own heart. Finally, from David's descendants, God fulfilled his promise by bringing to Israel a Savior, Jesus, for whom John the Baptist prepared the way. Paul proclaims “these things” to the men of Israel, assuring them that the Gospel, this “message of salvation,” was sent first to them (Acts 13:26, 46). Yet since the leaders of the Jews in Jerusalem rejected Jesus as the fulfillment of God's works, the prophets' words, and the promise given to their fathers—since they “thrust it aside and judged themselves unworthy of eternal life” (Acts 13:46)—Paul declares that “these things” are not for the Jews alone, but also for the Gentiles. Indeed, this has always been God's plan of salvation foretold by Isaiah (45:22, 49:6) and confessed by Simeon after Jesus' birth (Luke 2:29-32). Just as Jesus Christ was appointed a light for revelation to the Gentiles, so Paul and Barnabas have been made lights for the Gentiles as they bear the light of Christ. “How beautiful are the feet of him who brings good news” (Isaiah 52:7) and “brings salvation to the ends of the earth” (Acts 13:47)! Though persecution arises on account of Paul and Barnabas' preaching, the disciples of Jesus are “filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit” (Acts 13:52). “These things” have now been fulfilled in their midst, and they are glad to suffer for the name of Jesus Christ. They count it all joy to meet such trials, rejoicing in their sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, endurance produces character, and character produces hope—a hope that does not put them to shame, because God's love has been poured into their hearts through the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:3-5).  In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.May God bestow on us His grace, With blessings rich provide us; And may the brightness of His face To life eternal guide us, That we His saving health may know, His gracious will and pleasure, And also to the nations show Christ's riches without measure And unto God convert them. (LSB 823:1)Rev. David Woelmer, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church, Smithville, Texas. 

Send Us a Message or Fan MailPreacher: Pastor Adam SteinbrennerSubmit sermon questions by emailing podcast@stjohndublin.orgLink to Romans 8 SermonLink to 1 Kings 19 SermonChurch Website: stjohndublin.orgChurch Center: stjohndublin.churchcenter.comThank you to Higher Things Inc. for permission to use their recording of LSB 834 “O God, O Lord of Heaven and Earth”. (leader.higherthings.org)Thank you for listening to the Post-Sermon Podcast.

July 6, 2026Today's Reading: 1 Kings 19:11-21Daily Lectionary: Joshua 24:1-31; Judges 1:1-36; Acts 13:1-12“I, even I only, am left, and they seek my life” (1 Kings 19:10, 14) In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Elijah, wearied from forty days and forty nights of wandering toward Mount Horeb, waits in the cave for “the word of the Lord.” He waits alone, afraid for his life. If it were only Jezebel who sought to kill him, perhaps he could endure it—but it is not just the queen. It is the “people of Israel” themselves who seek his life, to take it away. If he had even one faithful prophet besides him, perhaps he could bear it—but no, he alone remains. All the rest have bowed their knees to Baal. They have forsaken God's covenant, thrown down his altars, and slain his prophets. Twice, the Lord asks Elijah a question he may already be asking himself: “What are you doing here, Elijah?” Perhaps Elijah restrains himself from asking the same in return: “What are you doing here, Lord?” And the Lord answers that unspoken cry—not in the wind, nor the earthquake, nor the fire—but in a still, small voice. A prophet in solitude, prophets in death, a covenant broken, and altars overthrown—Elijah cries into the silence and believes alone.Yet how does God answer Elijah's zealous lament? Elijah, who fears Jezebel's injustice, is given the power to anoint leaders in both church and state who will bring justice to the land. The Lord of heaven and earth, who commands wind and land and fire, commands the weary prophet to anoint two kings and one prophet. From Hazael to Jehu to Elisha, none will escape the sword. Elijah, who shrank back because of Israel's faithlessness, is welcomed into the company of seven thousand men who have not bowed their knees to Baal. God shows His love to a thousand generations of those who love Him and keep His Commandments. Finally, Elijah, who mourned in lonely exile, departs and finds a faithful companion near. Elisha receives the prophet's cloak, call, and commission, and commits himself to the Lord's work. Strengthened by the presence of his God on Mount Horeb, Elijah descends to the plain to proclaim—together with Elisha—“the word of the Lord.” In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.God of the prophets, bless the prophets' sons; Elijah's mantle o'er Elisha cast. Each age its solemn task may claim but once; Make each one nobler, stronger than the last. Anoint them prophets, men who are intent To be Your witnesses in word and deed, Their hearts aflame, their lips made eloquent, Their eyes awake to ev'ry human need. (LSB 682:1-2)Rev. David Woelmer, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church, Smithville, Texas. 

July 4, 2026Today's Reading: Introit for Trinity 5 - Psalm 27:1a, 11-12, 14; antiphon: Psalm 27:7, 9bDaily Lectionary: Joshua 10:1-25; Joshua 10:28-22:34; Acts 11:19-30“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” (Psalm 27:1a)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.As a young child, I don't really think I was scared of the dark; I just didn't like it. I wanted to be able to see where I was walking if I got up. And there was simply a little comfort in the soft glow of the night light.As an adult most of my ministry has been in towns with plenty of light coming through our windows, so that it is never truly “dark.” I still find the comfort and convenience of a little light to make my way to the bathroom, or kitchen for some water.For some, though, there are things to be fearful in the dark. In a dangerous neighborhood there may be someone lurking and waiting to rob. Or maybe there is uneven ground or pavement, and someone can easily trip and be injured. In this sinful, broken world, there are many dangers that can await us there. These dangers have but one remedy. Light. And not just any light. Not a night light, or a lamp, or even a flood light.Jesus says, “I am the light of the world.” (John 8:12) That is no mere opinion. It's not even a comparison to other sources of light in creation. It simply is pure truth that Christ Jesus IS the Light of the world. When the darkness of sin, death, and the devil feel like they are closing in on you, and you are being pulled into the depths of darkness, Jesus is the Light who is giving the comfort and the sure and certain hope.The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? (Psalm 27:1a) The Light of the world is Jesus, whose very name means “The Lord saves.” He IS salvation. King David is singing the sweet and powerful truth to you that Jesus is the LORD, He is the Light of the world, and He is salvation in the flesh. Your Savior is all this for you. And so you have nothing to fear.The devil, the world, and your own sinful flesh are constantly lurking in dark places to ambush you. Yet your Lord Jesus, the Light of the world, has overcome the darkness for you. He defends and protects you, and His whole Church, as He calls you, His baptized child, out of darkness into His marvelous light. (1 Peter 2:9)Fear not. Jesus is the Light of the world, for you.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Fear not! I am with you, O be not dismayed, For I am your God and will still give you aid; I'll strengthen you, help you, and cause you to stand, Upheld by My righteous, omnipotent hand. (LSB 728:2)Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.

July 3, 2026Today's Reading: Catechism: The Lord's Prayer - 7th PetitionDaily Lectionary: Joshua 8:1-28; Acts 11:1-18“But deliver us from evil. What does this mean? We pray in this petition, in summary, that our Father in heaven would rescue us from every evil of body and soul, possessions and reputation, and finally, when our last hour comes, give us a blessed end, and graciously take us from this valley of sorrow to Himself in heaven.” (Small Catechism: Lord's Prayer - 7th Petition)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.I don't know about you, but it feels like there is a lot of evil all around. Voters in any major party these days will talk of their opponents as evil, even when they don't use that specific word. News on television or the Internet is constantly filled with stories of violent assaults and murder. Abortions are justified and even celebrated by massive amounts of people. And just about everyone knows someone with an ex-spouse who became vindictive and cruel in their dealings with them.But settle down, Christian. You have that log to pull out of your own eye, again. There is lots of evil that Old Adam has swum back to the surface and accomplished. You're not just an innocent bystander.Our loving and forgiving Lord knows that. And He died and rose for that. He suffered the absolute worst that evil could unleash at Him, and He won. Evil is defeated. The evil one is limited and knows he is doomed to the prison of hell. That is why his misery-loves-company self hurls all that he can at us, to attempt to drag us down with him in unbelief. The evil one wants you to get so discouraged that you “curse God and die.” (Job 2:9) Daily, he rages against Christ and His Church, with anything he can think of. But try as he might, even Satan can not steal you from God. He is a created angel, and can never overcome the Lord God. No one can snatch them out of My hand. (John 10:28)The Lord sends the Comforter, who calls you by the Gospel, enlightens you with Christ's gifts, sanctifies you and keeps you in the one true faith.That's really what we are praying for here. That the Lord continues to give His gifts and keep us in the faith, even when the devil is hurling evil at us. Jesus keeps you. Jesus preserves you. And even when you suffer assaults to body, mind, and spirit, He delivers you from evil by keeping you in that one true faith.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.From evil, Lord deliver us; The ties and days are perilous. Redeem us from eternal death, And, when we yield our dying breath, Console us, grant us calm release, And take our souls to You in peace. (LSB 766:8)Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.

July 2, 2026Today's Reading: Luke 1:39-45 (46-56)Daily Lectionary: Joshua 7:1-26; Acts 10:34-48“‘Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!” (Luke 1:42b)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Saint Elizabeth was blessed. Her young relative from Nazareth had arrived at her home, and she was happy to see her. You can just see her in your mind, coming to the doorway, seeing Mary, and shrieking with excitement! The crazy thing is, the Blessed Virgin would not even be one month into pregnancy yet. She's not showing. But St. Elizabeth knows! And she knows Who is in the womb of her relative, since God has revealed that to her.Saint John the Baptizer was blessed. Today's world might dismiss him as merely a six-month-developed fetus. But that precious baby in his mother's womb was gifted by God also to know! St. John wasn't just kicking like babies normally do inside their mothers; he was leaping for joy at the presence of God! He was not able to use his voice yet to preach and point others to Christ, so he used movement to do the preaching. “Mom! Look! God is here!”The Virgin Mary is blessed. God, in His wisdom and grace, chose this girl to be the Mother of God-with-us. She was blessed to hear the Word of God through the Angel Gabriel, and through faith to believe it. Then she was blessed to actually carry God in her womb! Nine precious months with the Creator inside a creature, the Nourisher and Sustainer of all being nourished and sustained by His mother.All of these saints are blessed not from themselves, but from their connection to THE Blessed One. Take some time to go through the Psalms. Did you ever notice how many times it talks about the Blessed Man? It's not David bragging about how good he is. It's not even praising some prophet or other man. It's all about Jesus! Christ is THE Blessed One. And through His holy life, innocent death, and glorious resurrection, He gives that blessedness to you and all His Church.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God, my Savior. For He has regarded the lowliness of His handmaiden. For behold from this day all generations will call me blessed. For the Mighty One has done great things to me, and holy is His name; and His mercy is on those who fear Him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has cast down the mighty from their thrones and has exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich He has sent empty away. He has helped His servant Israel in remembrance of His mercy as He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to His seed forever. (LSB 248)Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.

July 1, 2026Today's Reading: Romans 12:14-21 or Romans 8:18-23Daily Lectionary: Joshua 6:6-27; Acts 10:18-33“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:21)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.It's like Paul is saying, “Don't lower yourselves to their level.” Only he isn't wording it condescendingly or negatively. “Win them over by love and goodness.” Yes, that is more like it.When Paul had been the Pharisee of Pharisees, seeking out the supposed heretics - the Christians among the Jews, he had one thing in mind: lock them up, and if they don't recant, we will stone them all to death. He thought they were evil. And he was attempting to overcome their evil by the evil of killing them.Jesus had other plans. He came and stood before this zealous and religious man, and came crashing down with the accusation: “Why are you persecuting Me?” (Acts 9:4). And then He sent Ananias. But Ananias is not there to punish Paul. He does not come with weapons, a jail sentence, or even more words of judgment. Ananias is sent to call Paul “brother,” to restore his sight, and to baptize him. Ananias overcomes evil with good.Ultimately, that is what Christ Jesus Himself had done. Betrayed by one of the Twelve, beaten, spit on, stripped, humiliated, and then nailed to a cross to die of asphyxiation. You are hard-pressed to find anyone suffering more evil than that. Yet Jesus does not return evil for evil. The King of the Universe could have demanded justice against those transgressors and responded with agonizing punishment. But He did not. He knew the great paradox of His salvation for mankind was in overcoming evil with good. Jesus Christ remained good and holy even in suffering all evil. And the goodness of God is what overcame sin, death, and the devil in His sacrifice.Now, Paul says, you do the same. Not simply as some example that you follow. Not because you are supposed to do it. The Law has been fulfilled by God the Son when He overcame evil with good at the cross. So now, you do this from the love of Jesus that fills you. In faith, the Lord grants that you respond to Him by loving your neighbor and doing good. Doing good can only come from faith in Christ, the One who has truly overcome evil with good. And as “little Christs,” as Luther calls you, you are happy to not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.O grant that nothing in my soul May dwell but Thy pure love alone; Oh, may Thy love possess me whole, My joy, my treasure, and my crown! All coldness from my heart remove; My ev'ry act, word, thought be love. (LSB 683:2)Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.

June 30, 2026Today's Reading: Genesis 50:15-21Daily Lectionary: Joshua 5:1-6:5; Acts 10:1-17“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.” (Genesis 50:20)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Joseph's brothers had a lot of specks in their eyes. They had gone for two decades without seeing him, after their tempers grew short that dreadful day. Nine of them wanted to kill him outright. Reuben persuaded a change of plan, and they threw him down a dry cistern. (Everyone else thought they were leaving him to die of hunger and thirst; only Reuben had a plan to return after everyone's tempers calmed down.) Then the plan changed again, and they sold Joseph into slavery. That was the last they saw of him for 20 years. Of course, it had gotten worse. Joseph was treated well and completely trusted by his master, only to have the master's wife falsely accuse him of attempted rape. Off to prison he went. By the time Joseph was brought before Pharaoh to interpret his dreams, Joseph had been a slave or imprisoned for 13 years. Isolation. Cut off from his family, homeland, and language. Loss of freedom. Joseph suffered much, and humanly speaking, had a lot to be angry about.Yet none of the brothers knew or understood the work and timing of God. The Lord was giving Joseph these experiences and placing him in locations that would lead to the saving of lives. Not just his and his family's, but the lives of thousands upon thousands in and around Egypt. Entire peoples were given life and delivered from death through the innocent suffering of Joseph.You would think that after 17 years of living together in the land of Egypt, everyone would be relaxed and trusting at last. But the brothers were fearful that Joseph would come and judge them for all those specks when their father Jacob died. They came before him like beggars, ready to be his servants.The Lord has mercy. In His mercy, He gave Joseph wisdom and understanding to see that the evil deeds done against him were actually setting a plan in motion that would save entire nations. None of them would be alive if it weren't for their past transgressions. As God had forgiven them, so also Joseph had forgiven. I'm sure he even saw the log in his own eye about the arrogance and in-your-face reporting of his boyhood dreams. In truth, we are all beggars. Joseph knew this. He was forgiven. And that forgiveness spilled over to those around him, understanding that God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.For Your Son has suffered for me, Giv'n Himself to rescue me, Died to save me and restore me, Reconciled and set me free, Jesus' cross alone can vanquish These dark fears and soothe this anguish. (LSB 608:3)Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.

June 29, 2026Today's Reading: Matthew 16:13-19Daily Lectionary: Joshua 4:1-24; Acts 9:23-43“And Jesus answered him, ‘Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 16:17)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Peter and Paul. The “Prince of the Apostles” and the “Apostle to the Gentiles.” They both are great movers and shakers in the first generation of the New Testament Church—heroes of the faith. And we remember them with appreciation and thanksgiving, sometimes in our stained glass windows, or even with statues flanking the Risen Christ on some altars. It is good to remember them and give thanks.But is it the wisdom and skill of Simon and Saul? Did Simon Peter pass some exam with flying colors, giving Jesus the right answer? Did Saul of Tarsus suddenly realize he was wrong on the Road to Damascus, and shout, “My bad!” as he made up his own mind to start a new life? Here is a hint: even with the greatest saints, they could “not by [their] own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ [their] Lord, or come to Him.”The Father in heaven gave His Spirit to these men, that they might come to faith in Christ, and be great apostles to build the foundation of the Church. These two had a great many things in common. Peter raised Dorcas from the dead; Paul raised Eutychus. Peter was released from jail in Jerusalem by an angel; Paul by an angel in Philippi. Both preach to thousands, both Jew and Gentile, around the Roman Empire. And then, the last thing they shared in common: they both were martyred in Rome during Nero's persecution of Christians. Paul, as a Roman citizen, was given a swift, less torturous death by beheading. Peter, as merely a subject of the Empire, was crucified.Ah! But there is yet another thing in common. These two saints now rest from their labors, asleep in Jesus. And they are awaiting the Resurrection at the Last Day. The Resurrection foreshadowed in the empty tomb, and revealed to Peter in the Upper Room and at breakfast on the beach. The Resurrection was revealed to Paul when he was “knocked off his high horse” and saw and heard the Risen Christ on the Road to Damascus.The Gospel of this Resurrection is revealed to you, too. Through the Word of God delivered by these two saints (and so many others!), you have been blessed and are being prepared for the Resurrection.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.We praise You for Saint Peter; We praise You for Saint Paul; They taught both Jew and Gentile That Christ is all in all. To cross and sword they yielded And saw Your kingdom come; O God, these two apostles Reached life through martyrdom. (LSB 518:19)Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.

June 27, 2026Today's Reading: Introit for Trinity 4 - Psalm 27:3-4a, 5; antiphon: Psalm 27:1-2Daily Lectionary: Joshua 2:1-24; Acts 8:26-40“The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.In the beginning, God said, “Let there be light.” Out of the nothingness and darkness, God spoke, and light was created. And God said it was good. John's gospel opens with “In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God…the light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:1, 5) The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life, of whom shall I be afraid? All this talk of light. Why? Because there is darkness in this life. There is suffering and hardship. And there are things we fear. On our own, we are left hurting and broken with no hope and no lasting help.Sin breaks stuff. The world is broken, and so are we. The suffering we endure in this life, often as a consequence of our own sin, is persistent and heavy, and overpowering. The devil seeks to devour us. The world seeks to destroy us. Our sinful nature hates God and would call evil everything He has called good. The sinful flesh has reason to fear the darkness and shadow. But God is not afraid of the dark. God's solution to this darkness and evil, and brokenness is not to turn His back on us. He does not leave us in the dark. He sends light and life. He sends Jesus. Jesus, the light no darkness can overcome. Jesus, who died that sinners might live eternally. Jesus, Who rose that we might also rise in Him to newness of life. There is much to fear, but you, dear child of God, need not fear. The Lord of life and death calls you His own. You have been given life and light, forgiveness and salvation, freely. You have been given the Gift of dwelling in the house of your God all the days of your life, now and in eternity. Though an army encamps against her, Jesus will not forsake His Bride, the Church, and that includes you. When you find yourself in the valley of the shadow of death, remember these words: Jesus is my light and salvation, Jesus is the stronghold of my life, of whom shall I be afraid?In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Jesus comes in joy and sorrow, shares alike out hopes and fears; Jesus comes whate'er befalls us, cheers our hearts and dries our tears; Alleluia! Alleluia! Comforts us in failing years. (LSB 353:4)Deac. Emma Heinz, registrar for Higher Things.

June 26, 2026Today's Reading: Acts 8:1-25Daily Lectionary: Joshua 1:1-18; Acts 8:1-25“Now when Simon [the magician] saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money, saying, ‘Give me this power also, so that anyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.'” (Acts 8:18–19)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Simon the magician likes a spectacle. He profited from the deeds and signs he performed. The people called him “the power of God that is called Great.” It seemed, outwardly, he possessed great power. When the disciples came, preaching the Good News of Jesus, Simon the magician and many others believed and were baptized, having been amazed by signs and wonders. To magic Simon, this was power! Peter and John came to lay on hands, that the people might receive the Holy Spirit, and it was then that Simon came with money to purchase this power. Peter rebukes him harshly, warning of destruction for Simon if he does not repent. Simon believed he could buy the gifts of God with money. Simon then asks Peter to intercede with the Lord on his behalf. But the truth is clear: God and His gifts cannot be bought. The sinful flesh and world seek power and will take it by whatever means necessary. We see this in the account of Simon the magician, but we see it in ourselves as well. We want power over others; we want control. Simon's desire to literally buy power is the most obvious depiction of our inner desire to be God and use that authority our way.Thanks be to God, His ways are not our ways! Instead of having to pay anything to receive God, He gives Himself freely to sinners who believe. We should repent when we seek to wield the love of God as a means to our own ends. God's power cannot be bought. His love cannot be taken by force. It is only given, and this is Good News to you and me. Instead of withholding life and salvation or His own Spirit from sinners who misuse it, God, in His mercy, pours out Himself that sinners may be forgiven and the dead and dying may live. Jesus paid the price, in His death and resurrection, so we may be given life-saving grace, free of charge. Simon mistook the power of God as a tool for him to wield. He was wrong. The power of God is freely given to forgive sinners. It cannot be bought and does not need to be. It is yours, dear Christian, that you may have life in Christ now and always. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.What costly sacrifice to cover human sin! Who but Christ Jesus had the right to enter in? His blood, that sprinkled price, so we might be assured that our inheritance in light has been secured. (LSB 564:4)Deac. Emma Heinz, registrar for Higher Things.

God has attached His name, honor, and reputation to His people; and that reality cannot help but shape our prayers—and our expectations of God. "O Lord, listen! O Lord, forgive! O Lord, give heed and take action! For Your own sake, O my God, do not delay...," Daniel 9:19 (LSB). As Daniel realized Israel's exile was nearing its promised end, he also recognized that God's people were not ready to receive the renewal God had promised. Unrepentance and complacency characterized many in exile when humble, penitent loyalty was in order. So Daniel prayed. In the opening verses of Daniel 9, we saw how Daniel's private character led him to pray. This week, we'll see specifically how he prays—and what his prayer teaches us. His prayer, recorded in Daniel 9, is a model prayer for God's people, especially those experiencing His discipline, longing for His deliverance, and seeking renewal from His hand. This Lord's Day, we'll return to our study of Daniel 9, focusing on what to pray when God's people have drifted from Him, are slow to acknowledge their sin, and seem unprepared to receive the renewal He has promised. Join us as we consider, "Back to the Future: How to Pray in the Dark." Prepare for Sunday: Read and meditate on Daniel 9:4-19. How, specifically, should the church pray as Daniel prayed? What does this prayer proclaim about God? What does this prayer acknowledge about His covenant people? Why do you think Daniel included himself in this prayer of corporate confession? What anchors Daniel's confidence in God's response? Note: This Sunday we'll also come to the Lord's Table and rejoice in the very promises Daniel's prayer highlights. Let's prepare

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the one-hundredth-and-sixty-fourth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.' Hosted by MAJ Amy Beatty, the G-4 Senior Sustainment Planner from Plans / Exercise Maneuver Control Task Force on behalf of the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today's guest is the Battalion Commander for the 82nd Light Support Battalion, LTC Peter van Howe.   The 82nd Light Support Battalion (LSB), formerly the 82nd Brigade Support Battalion (BSB), serves as the sustainment backbone of the 3rd Mobile Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, providing logistics, maintenance, medical, transportation, and distribution support to enable the brigade's rapid deployment and expeditionary operations worldwide. Known by its Hollywood call-sign, “Gator,” the battalion has a long history of supporting airborne and contingency operations, ensuring paratroopers can seize, hold, and fight from key terrain under austere conditions. As the Army transitions from the BSB to the LSB construct, the battalion continues to evolve its sustainment capabilities to support dispersed operations, contested logistics, and prolonged combat against peer threats. The battalion's motto, “Service to the Line,” reflects its enduring commitment to projecting, generating, and preserving combat power for the brigade, ensuring maneuver forces remain lethal, mobile, and ready to fight whenever and wherever the Nation calls.   This episode explores the employment of the Light Support Battalion (LSB) and how sustainment formations are adapting to survive and sustain maneuver forces on the modern battlefield. The discussion focuses on base cluster design, command and control, survivability, distribution operations, and the constant balance between protection and sustainment throughput. Leaders examine different approaches to organizing the Brigade Support Area, emphasizing that there is no single solution and that sustainment leaders must remain flexible based on the enemy situation, terrain, mission requirements, and available resources. Topics include dispersed versus consolidated support areas, use of forward logistics elements, deception operations, engineer support, survivability positions, signature management, and the employment of decoy command posts. A recurring theme throughout the episode is that sustainment formations must think and fight like maneuver formations, continuously adapting their posture to maintain survivability while preserving the ability to project, generate, and preserve combat power for the brigade.    The conversation also focuses on the critical relationship between maneuver units and the sustainment enterprise. Leaders discuss the importance of accurate LOGSTAT reporting, synchronization across echelons, understanding the roles of the S4, Support Operations Officer (SPO), G4, and G8, and ensuring sustainment is integrated into planning from the outset. Additional topics include running estimates, logistics common operating pictures, rehearsals, battle rhythm events, sustainment forecasting, and the role of NCOs in MDMP. The episode highlights how sustainment success depends on shared understanding, continuous communication, and deliberate synchronization in time and space. Ultimately, the discussion reinforces that the LSB is far more than a logistics provider—it is a combat multiplier that enables brigade operations by ensuring forces can continue to fight, move, communicate, recover, and sustain themselves throughout prolonged operations against a capable peer threat.      Part of S05 “Beans, Bullets, Band-Aids, Batteries, Water, & Fuel” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast.   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we'd like to thank our guests for participating. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

How God's people respond to prophecy—especially prophecy portending hardship—reveals where ultimate priorities lie. Some respond in fear to warnings of coming tribulation, while others respond with speculative diagnoses that match today's headlines with Bible prophecy. Daniel responded with faith in God's character and confidence in His promises; he prayed in the direction of both. "So I gave my face to the Lord God to seek Him by prayer and supplications, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes," Daniel 9:3 (LSB). God gave Daniel prophetic visions of Israel's scary future not to satisfy his curiosity, but to realign His people to His priorities, and strengthen their faithfulness to Him. That's why Daniel's prayer in Chapter 9 shows the same pattern we find in the apostles praying Psalm 2, in John's vision of heaven, and in Christ's instruction to His disciples concerning prayer. When God promises His people something, we're meant to think and pray in the direction of those promises, letting His word direct our petitions, and then our lives. This Lord's Day, we'll begin our look at Daniel 9, starting with a prayer that precedes one of the Old Testament's clear prophecies of our Lord's first advent, Calvary, and the inauguration of His covenant of grace. Join us as we turn to Daniel 9:1-3 and consider "Back to the Future: When Prophecy Prompts Prayer." Prepare for Sunday: Read Daniel 9:1-19, meditating on verses 1-3. What historic setting is described in verses 1-3? What specifically was Daniel reading? What was Daniel's immediate response after understanding God's promise? What does Daniel's attention to Jeremiah's prophecy reveal about his view of Scri

“Once upon a time, a princess was born ...”  Three hundred years before Martin Luther was kidnapped and taken to Wartburg Castle for his own safety, the towering Schloss hosted another notable saint of God: Elizabeth of Hungary.   Born in 1207 in Sárospatak, Hungary, Elizabeth was the daughter of King Andrew II of Hungary. At the age of four, she left home to be betrothed to Hermann, son of the Count of Thuringia in present-day Germany.   In this episode, Sarah tells the story of one of the more obscure saints on the Lutheran calendar of commemorations (LSB xiii), celebrating especially her devout faith and selfless acts of charity. Although Elizabeth was a product (and in some ways a tragic victim) of the Medieval church that Luther later sought to reform, her example of piety and generosity continues to inspire Christians to this day.   For further reading, check out the following resources:  Philipp I, Landgrave of Hesse – Reformation 500  Philipp of Hesse: Unlikely Hero of the Reformation - Concordia Publishing House  St. Elizabeth's Church, Marburg - Wikipedia  Elizabeth of Hungary - Wikipedia  Philip I, Landgrave of Hesse - Wikipedia  George I, Landgrave of Hesse-Darmstadt - Wikipedia  Louis V, Landgrave of Hesse-Darmstadt - Wikipedia  George II, Landgrave of Hesse-Darmstadt - Wikipedia  Anna Sophia II, Abbess of Quedlinburg - Wikipedia  Connect with the Lutheran Ladies on social media in The Lutheran Ladies' Lounge Facebook discussion group (facebook.com/groups/LutheranLadiesLounge) and on Instagram @lutheranladieslounge. Follow Sarah (@hymnnerd), Rachel (@rachbomberger), and Erin (@erinaltered) on Instagram! Sign up for the Lutheran Ladies' Lounge monthly e-newsletter here, and email the Ladies at lutheranladies@kfuo.org.