Podcasts about LSB

March 4, 2026Today's Reading: Mark 7:1-23Daily Lectionary: Genesis 22:1-19; Mark 7:1-23“And he said, ‘What comes out of a person is what defiles him.'” (Mark 7:20)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.The topic of food can get complicated these days with all of the diets out there: keto, carnivore, Mediterranean, vegetarian, gluten-free, etc. In Jesus' day, food was a controversial topic. Lines were drawn in the sand. No ifs, ands, or buts about it. There was a food fight going on, so to speak. Certain foods were deemed “clean” and therefore okay to consume, while other foods were considered defiled and dirtied, leaving a person ritually unclean and unable to worship at the Temple. Jesus stops the food fight when He says, “Hear me, all of you, and understand: There is nothing outside a person that by going into him can defile him, but the things that come out of a person are what defile him.” (Mark 7:14b-15) The disciples have a tough time with this. It's not what their Jewish mothers taught them. They would've been well aware of the clean/unclean categories. Jesus rocks their world when He tells them that food can't defile anyone. Every bite passes the heart and is expelled. Jesus declares all foods clean! So then what makes a person defiled and dirty?Food isn't the real problem since the heart of the problem is the human heart! And he said, “What comes out of a person is what defiles him. For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.” (Mark 7:20-23) No one gets away guilt-free from that list! Ouch! Leaves us all realizing that we have had thoughts, words, and actions that defile and dirty us. We're all in the same boat. We confess together, “I, a poor, miserable sinner!” Dirty and defiled, we deserve damnation! Thanks be to God, we get what we don't deserve! Grace upon grace! Jesus is the One who defiles and dirties Himself! He touches the unclean leper, lifts up the unclean dead, eats and drinks with unclean sinners and tax collectors. He takes upon Himself the dirt and defilement that damns! He bears our sins to die our death! Yes, He cries out those words of abandonment that we'll never have to speak: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Mark 15:34). The Temple curtain is torn from top to bottom. The way to the Father is open to all through that godforsaken death on Good Friday. His blood cleanses us from all sin. “Take, drink, this is My blood shed for you for the forgiveness of all your sins.” There is food that sprinkles our hearts clean. Take, drink!       In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Mine is the sin, but Thine the righteousness; Mine is the guilt, but Thine the cleansing blood; Here is my robe, my refuge, and my peace: Thy blood, Thy righteousness, O Lord my God. (LSB 631:5)Rev. Aaron Schian is pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Auburn, MI.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.We wander through life looking for freedom, only to realize we have listened to the devil's call to serve our selves, our pleasures, and our lusts. Instead of freedom we find ourselves enslaved to sin. We wonder if we have sinned too often, too deep to ever be welcomed back to the Father's home, back into His loving embrace. Have we lost our inheritance as children of God?In this short book, author Bryan Wolfmueller digs into the popular parable of the Prodigal Son to bring hope and aid to our hurting conscience. Wolfmueller proclaims the freedom-giving Gospel that through Jesus' suffering, death, and resurrection, our place in the Father's house is secure, and forgiveness and welcome are ours in His outstretched arms. Fully Free, now available from CPH.

March 3, 2026Today's Reading: 1 Thessalonians 4:1-7 or Romans 5:1-5Daily Lectionary: Genesis 21:1-21; Mark 6:35-56“Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Romans 5:1)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. Through! What a tiny preposition, but that preposition is Good News for you! Paul states that “we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Romans 5:1b) Peace with God is not through our brains and brawn, our achievements and accomplishments, our degrees and pedigrees, likes and looks. Peace with God is not even through how good we are as Lutherans or how good we have Luther's Small Catechism memorized. Although it's not a bad idea to store those words in your heart. Peace with God is through our Lord Jesus Christ. Period. No one or nothing else. The Jesus who lived the perfect life we couldn't live. The Jesus who died the godforsaken death we deserved to die. The Jesus who was raised for our justification. Yes, you are justified–declared enough–all for Jesus' sake! This is Good News that's out of this World for everyone in this World! We have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ! There's more! Always more with the Good News! It's no trickle of Good News but an endless gushing fountain! Paul tells us that “through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand.” (Romans 5:2a) His grace and not our grit got us into God's House! What undeserved kindness and favor from God our heavenly Father! You need not doubt what God thinks of you. By faith in Jesus, you stand in God's House as His beloved Child. Your Baptism assures you of this. Paul encourages us to remain in the Father's House, a house that has grace as the floor, ceiling, and walls. In this grace place, “we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” (Romans 5:2b) We look forward to our glorious resurrection on the Last Day when everything wrong will be made right, beautiful, true, and good!  As we wait with Holy Spirit-ed confidence for the great-and-glorious Last Day, there will be pressures. You've felt them before, haven't you? Paul tells us that we get to rejoice in the pressures of life because they produce endurance, that is, a hunger and thirst for God's grace to sustain and shelter us 24/7. And endurance produces character, that is, we don't despair over the pressures, but depend on God, who is leading us by the hand through the pressures into Paradise. And character produces hope; that is, no matter what our eyes see, we know we will outlast the pressures, all because of that little preposition “though”! Through our Lord Jesus Christ! Yes, through Jesus, we have peace with God today, tomorrow, and forevermore!   In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. In God, my faithful God, I trust when dark my road; Great woes may overtake me, Yet He will not forsake me. My troubles He can alter; His hand lets nothing falter. (LSB 745:1)Rev. Aaron Schian is pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Auburn, MI.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.We wander through life looking for freedom, only to realize we have listened to the devil's call to serve our selves, our pleasures, and our lusts. Instead of freedom we find ourselves enslaved to sin. We wonder if we have sinned too often, too deep to ever be welcomed back to the Father's home, back into His loving embrace. Have we lost our inheritance as children of God?In this short book, author Bryan Wolfmueller digs into the popular parable of the Prodigal Son to bring hope and aid to our hurting conscience. Wolfmueller proclaims the freedom-giving Gospel that through Jesus' suffering, death, and resurrection, our place in the Father's house is secure, and forgiveness and welcome are ours in His outstretched arms. Fully Free, now available from CPH.

March 2, 2026Today's Reading: Genesis 32:22-32Daily Lectionary: Genesis 18:1-15; Genesis 18:16-20:18; Mark 6:14-34“Then he said, ‘Let me go, for the day has broken.' But Jacob said, ‘I will not let you go unless you bless me.'” (Genesis 32:26) In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. What a wrestling match in Genesis 32! Not the one we would expect. Wasn't the Lord on Jacob's side? Yes, but here it appeared that the Lord was Jacob's adversary. Not exactly what Jacob probably wanted. I mean, his life was already in deadly danger. Why? Well, you may remember when Jacob cut a deal with Esau, his older brother. Esau's birthright for a bowl of vegetable stew. And then, Jacob deceived his dad to get Esau's blessing. Not a happy camper! Filled with rage, Esau threatened to murder his baby brother. A family feud was in process. Jacob didn't want it to escalate to bloodshed! He desired his family to be safe and sound, so he made plans that could possibly cool off Esau's jets. Jacob prayed to the Lord and then sent his family ahead to Esau with loads of goodies.  Jacob, now alone, found himself wrestling all night. No match against a mere man but against the Lord Himself! Throughout the struggle, Jacob had quite the grip. The Lord even touched his hip and put it out of socket, but Jacob refused to tap out. At daybreak, the Lord said, “Let go!” “Not until you bless me,” Jacob yelled! The Lord came through for Jacob as He promised! He gave Jacob the new name “Israel,” which means “he who wrestles with God.” And then, the Lord blessed him. Jacob called the place “Penuel,” which refers to seeing the Lord's face. This wrestler wouldn't share his name even though Jacob wanted that. The name would be shared, though, many years later, by the angel Gabriel with the virgin Mary and her guardian Joseph. Yes, the One that Jacob wrestled with was the One that would come from Jacob's family tree and take down Sin, Death, and Satan for you and me.  We can feel like we're in a wrestling match with the Lord. It can look like God is against us as we get bumps and bruises from the rough and tumble of life. Some days we just limp along. Suffering and sickness tucker us out. Temptations wear us down. Even though it can seem like we're all alone, we're not! Jacob is an example for us. Hold onto the Lord's promises day after day until we see him face-to-face in the resurrection. We will! All of God's promises have their “yes” in Jesus! No promise will ever be broken by the One who has broken the powers of Sin, Death, and Satan by His wrestling match at Golgotha for us. Because Jesus has conquered, we will, too! It's His promise, and His grip on us won't slip. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. Jesus, lead Thou on Till our rest is won; And although the way be cheerless, We will follow calm and fearless, Guide us by Thy hand To our fatherland. (LSB 718:1)Rev. Aaron Schian is pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Auburn, MI.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.We wander through life looking for freedom, only to realize we have listened to the devil's call to serve our selves, our pleasures, and our lusts. Instead of freedom we find ourselves enslaved to sin. We wonder if we have sinned too often, too deep to ever be welcomed back to the Father's home, back into His loving embrace. Have we lost our inheritance as children of God?In this short book, author Bryan Wolfmueller digs into the popular parable of the Prodigal Son to bring hope and aid to our hurting conscience. Wolfmueller proclaims the freedom-giving Gospel that through Jesus' suffering, death, and resurrection, our place in the Father's house is secure, and forgiveness and welcome are ours in His outstretched arms. Fully Free, now available from CPH.

There are seasons in life when no matter how hard you try, nothing seems to move. You push forward, but the door won’t budge. You try to step back, but the path is blocked. You pray, plan, adjust, and strive—yet you still feel stuck. Psalm 40 reminds us that David knew this feeling well. He described being lifted from a “slimy pit” and set on solid ground. But later, when trouble surrounded him again, he didn’t pretend everything was fine. He cried out honestly, even urgently: “Come quickly, Lord, to help me.” Feeling stuck can bring frustration, fear, and even desperation. We may question why God hasn’t changed our situation yet. But Scripture shows us that waiting seasons are not wasted seasons. God is not absent in the delay. He remains present in the confinement. Sometimes God rescues immediately. Other times, He strengthens us within the waiting. Either way, He is our help and deliverer. He welcomes our honest prayers. He is not offended by our tears or our pleas for Him to hurry. If you feel wedged between circumstances you cannot control, remember: you are not trapped alone. The Lord is near. He hears you. He sustains you. And in time, He will place your feet on steady ground again. Main Takeaways Feeling stuck is a common and deeply human experience. David modeled honest, urgent prayer when he needed rescue. God is present in both deliverance and delay. Waiting seasons can strengthen faith and deepen reliance on God. The Lord remains our constant help, even when circumstances don’t immediately change. Today’s Bible Verse “As for me, I am afflicted and needy, May the Lord think of me. You are my help and the One who rescues me; Do not delay, O my God” (Psalm 40:17, LSB). Your Daily Prayer Prayer excerpt for listeners: “Help me to want You more than the relief, and to find hope in Your presence while I wait.” Listen to the full prayer here. To view the prayer in written format, visit the links below. Want More? Relevant Links & Resources Continue growing in faith and encouragement: LifeAudio.com – Christian podcasts and devotionals Crosswalk.com – Daily prayers, articles, and Bible study resources This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.orgTrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. https://trinitycredit.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This winter's cold and flu bug seems catchier than most. Has it caught you yet? Many of you would answer "yes" – despite your best efforts to stay away from sick people. No matter what you do to avoid it, at some point you find you've got it. Pride, man's besetting sickness, is also this way. No matter what steps we take, we find we have it. We don't catch it; we're born with it. At our worst, we mistake God's patience and forbearance toward us for His indifference, or tacit approval of our sin. And He'll take extraordinary means to remind us that we are made to worship Him, not ourselves. "... a voice came from heaven saying, 'King Nebuchadnezzar, to you it is said: the kingdom has been removed from you," Daniel 4:31 (LSB). While Babylon seemed untouchable, God was already at work vindicating His sovereign rule for the sake of His exiled people. This Lord's Day, we'll finish our look at Daniel 4 and its startling account of a powerful king's journey from pride to praise. God's compassion for Babylon's King Nebuchadnezzar expressed itself in a severe mercy: a prolonged season of insanity and isolation from all that he once boasted in—until the king was finally humbled. "... For all His works are true and His ways just, and He is able to humble those who walk in pride," Daniel 4:37. Join us this Sunday as we turn to the Scriptures to see pride exposed, judged, and — by mercy — overruled. I hope to see you here as we consider, "God's People in Exile: The King's Speech."

March 1, 2026Today's Reading: Matthew 15:21-28Daily Lectionary: Genesis 16:1-9, 15-17:22; Mark 6:1-13“And [Jesus] answered, ‘It is not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs.'” (Matthew 15:26)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Jesus calls her what?!? A dog! What many Jews labeled the Canaanites! Looks like a roadblock! A wall! This mommy doesn't slink away, though, with her tail between her legs. Not defeated. What appears to be a pure “NO”, she hears as a “NO” that has a “YES” inside. A hidden “YES”! “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table.” (Matthew 15:27) “Ain't nothing but a hound dog!”Fine with her because even the dogs are family! Canaanites are part of Jesus' family tree. Rahab! Tamar! Ruth! Jew AND Gentile included in Jesus' Salvation Mission from day one! She believes that. Jesus is for her, even when everything says otherwise. She won't let Him go until she's proven right. And she is! She goes on her journey back home with His “for you” Word in her pocket! “O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire.” (Matthew 15:28) Jesus doesn't disappoint! Brings her beyond the wall, and she returns home not the same. Stretched! Surprised! Severed! Jesus stretched her to the breaking point, so she finds help and hope in Him alone. Jesus surprised her with growth, enlarging her heart to wait on Him alone. Jesus severed her from all attachments and allegiances that she feared, loved, and trusted, so He became her God and Lord alone! She expects walls ahead, but she can trust Jesus at every wall. He'll bring her through.  We'll have those moments where it's like we're on the autobahn of faith—cruising along and making the lights. Getting to our destinations. Sure, a few hiccups, but nothing horrible. Then one day, we slam the brakes. We only see red. Stopped! Stuck! What a standstill! All our plans thrown out the window. A wall before us. Can't get around it, over it, under it. What a wall! The wall comes in many shapes and sizes. Parents separate! Betrayed by friends! Shattered dreams! Failed a class! Cut from the team! A beloved family member dies! When we run up against the wall, we're confused. “Jesus loves me this I know!”Really? Jesus doesn't seem warm and friendly. No matter the wall, though, we cling to Jesus like this mommy. We trust Him at the wall. After all, on the Cross, He confronted all the walls we could ever run up against. And on Easter, He walked out of the Grave. Alive and well! The way through has been paved and paid! The journey of faith has begun, and Jesus will bring us through every wall. Not the same either. And certainly not alone. We're surrounded by one another. And Jesus leads the way. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Through long grief-darkened days help us, dear Lord, To trust Your grace for courage to endure, To rest our souls in Your supporting love, And find our hope within Your mercy sure. (LSB 764:5)Rev. Aaron Schian is pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Auburn, MI.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Finally Free: Three Lessons in the Parable of the Prodigal Sonby Bryan WolfmuellerWe wander through life looking for freedom, only to realize we have listened to the devil's call to serve our selves, our pleasures, and our lusts. Instead of freedom we find ourselves enslaved to sin. We wonder if we have sinned too often, too deep to ever be welcomed back to the Father's home, back into His loving embrace. Have we lost our inheritance as children of God?In this short book, author Bryan Wolfmueller digs into the popular parable of the Prodigal Son to bring hope and aid to our hurting conscience. Wolfmueller proclaims the freedom-giving Gospel that through Jesus' suffering, death, and resurrection, our place in the Father's house is secure, and forgiveness and welcome are ours in His outstretched arms. Fully Free, now available from CPH.

The Christian life is nothing other than a daily Baptism. Baptism does not just happen to us; by it, the Lord transforms us by death and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4). We walk in our Baptism each day by living in repentance and the gracious forgiveness found in Christ. The Lord enables our faith to flourish as we mortify the flesh (Romans 8:13), turning to Him and trusting that His forgiveness in Christ is ours. “God's own child I gladly say it, I am baptized into Christ.” (LSB 594, st. 1) Rev. Daniel Lewis, Assistant Professor of Theology, Concordia University, Seward, NE, joins Rev. Brady Finnern to conclude our study of Baptism as confessed in the Large Catechism. Find your copy of the Book of Concord - Concordia Reader's Edition at cph.org or read online at bookofconcord.org. Study the Lutheran Confession of Faith found in the Book of Concord with lively discussions led by host Rev. Brady Finnern, President of the LCMS Minnesota North District, and guest LCMS pastors. Join us as these Christ-confessing Concordians read through and discuss our Lutheran doctrine in the Book of Concord in order to gain a deeper understanding of our Lutheran faith and practical application for our vocations. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org. 

February 28, 2026Today's Reading: Introit for Lent 2 - Psalm 25:1-2a, 7-8, 11; antiphon: Psalm 25:6, 2b, 22Daily Lectionary: Genesis 15:1-21; Mark 5:21-43“Remember not the sins of my youth or my transgressions; according to your steadfast love remember me, for the sake of your goodness, O Lord!” (Psalm 25:7)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Did you know that a person's brain doesn't fully develop until about the age of twenty-five? David must have known this as well, and that's why he asks God not to remember the sins of his youth. People often hold the opinion that youth should not dwell on their failures but instead view their mistakes as opportunities to learn, adapt, and improve.While there may be some element of truth to that idea, some people are willing to excuse and overlook foolish and sinful behavior under the pretense of youthful ignorance. Does that mean God is willing to do the same? After all, God can't expect us to make good decisions all of the time, especially while we are young and still learning to navigate through life.   If all of this is true, at what point can a person expect to outgrow this phase of life and begin taking responsibility for oneself? In actuality, the problem was never so simple. It's not a rite of passage that we'll simply outgrow. Our Lutheran Confessions state “that since the fall of Adam, all who are naturally born are born with sin, that is, without the fear of God, without trust in God, and with the inclination to sin  . . .” And that never changes! The Old Adam, our old self or that old man in us, will never change. It will never get any better. It will never produce works that are pleasing to our Creator and Almighty God. And it will never be inclined to do good! We shouldn't think of the Christian life as a process of chipping away at the Old Adam until finally, someday, we'll be completely free from its evil influence. The sinful nature needs to be dealt with much more forcefully than that. It needs to be put to death, it needs to be drowned in the waters of Holy Baptism, and a New Man in Christ needs to be given life!  This is what the loving and merciful God has done for you. He has come to you in Baptism and united you with His Son, the Savior. And because of this, God no longer sees your sin; it was crucified and buried with Christ. Now your sins (all of them, not just the ones of your youth) are forgiven. You are washed clean in the blood of Christ. You are a New Man in Christ.   In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Jesus, refuge of the weary, Blest Redeemer, whom we love, Fountain in life's desert dreary, Savior from the world above: Often have Your eyes, offended, Gazed upon the sinner's fall; Yet upon the cross extended, You have borne the pain of all. (LSB 423:1)  Rev. Chad Hoover serves as Campus Pastor and theology teacher at Concordia Lutheran High School in Fort Wayne, IN and pastoral assistant at Emanuel Lutheran Church in New Haven, IN.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

February 27, 2026Today's Reading: Mark 5:1-20Daily Lectionary: Genesis 13:1-18; Genesis 14:1-24; Mark 5:1-20“And crying out with a loud voice, he said, ‘What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God?'” (Mark 5:7a) In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.“Jesus is my homeboy.” Have you ever heard anyone say something like that? Yes, Jesus took on human flesh, but does that make Him a fun-loving buddy you'd like to hang out with at the roller rink on Friday night? (That's still a thing, right?) Did the legion of demons that possessed the man in the country of the Gerasenes think that Jesus was a joke? Notice that the demons didn't come up to Jesus and try to dab him up or try to engage Him in casual conversation. When the man saw Jesus, he ran to Him, fell before him in fear, and cried out, “What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God?” Their knowledge of who Jesus is and their recognition of the power and authority He held over them was evident in their posture and pleading. Do we approach Jesus in the same way? Like those demons, we ought to recognize His power and authority over us. Unlike those demons, Christ is our Savior and has invited us into His presence through worship, through the study of His Word, and through our reception of the Lord's Supper. This should help you to understand why Lutherans take worship so seriously. In worship, God has promised to spare us from judgment. When we say things, “Lord, have mercy upon us,” we know that He does because of Christ's sacrifice and service to us. Unlike the demons, who stand condemned, we've been redeemed. Christ assures us of our place in His kingdom through His sacrificial death and resurrection. Additionally, in our worship, we should not act as if Jesus is anything less than God in the flesh who comes into our presence to bring us the fruits of His salvation. Jesus is not inaccessible to us. He has come near to save us. Once he was healed, the demon-possessed man longed to be with Jesus, but Jesus told him, “Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” That same admonition can be given to each one of us. We live in a world that needs to hear the Good News about Christ. So what does the world need? Another buddy? A real fun guy to go bowling with? Or does the world need a Savior - God in the flesh who has power over sin, death, and Hell and has mercy on you?   In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Before You, Lord, we bow, Our God who reigns above And rules the world below, Boundless in pow'r and love. Our thanks we bring In joy and praise, Our hearts we raise To You, our King! (LSB 966:1)  Rev. Chad Hoover serves as Campus Pastor and theology teacher at Concordia Lutheran High School in Fort Wayne, IN and pastoral assistant at Emanuel Lutheran Church in New Haven, IN.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

What is the Legacy Standard Bible (LSB), and how does it compare to the NASB? In this episode of Ask Dr. E, Dr. Michael Easley answers a listener's question about the LSB translation, explaining its connection to the New American Standard Bible and the translation philosophy behind it. He discusses formal equivalency, why certain wording choices were updated, and how readers should think about choosing a Bible translation. Dr. Easley also reminds listeners that while English speakers have access to dozens of translations, many languages around the world only have one — making the most important step simply reading Scripture consistently. If you've ever wondered which Bible translation to use for study or daily reading, this episode will help you think wisely and practically about the options available. Chapters 0:00 Intro to Ask Dr. E 0:22 Question about the Legacy Standard Bible (LSB) 1:05 Background of the NASB and LSB 2:17 Why reading the Bible's introduction matters 3:14 Translation changes in the LSB (Yahweh, doulos, etc.) 5:22 The MacArthur Study Bible and translation history 6:27 Formal vs. dynamic equivalency explained 7:20 Choosing a translation for study vs. reading 7:58 Final encouragement to read Scripture consistently Key Topics Covered -Legacy Standard Bible (LSB) overview -NASB translation history -Formal equivalency vs dynamic equivalency -Translating Yahweh in the Old Testament -The meaning of doulos (“slave” vs “bondservant”) -Choosing a Bible translation for study -Why consistency in Bible reading matters Links Mentioned Abner Chou on inContext Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

February 25, 2026Today's Reading: Hebrews 4:14-16Daily Lectionary: Genesis 8:13-9:17; Genesis 9:18-11:26; Mark 4:1-20“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.” (Hebrews 4:15)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.It could be argued that the best coaches in professional sports are the ones who've been athletes on the field. Vince Lombardi, one of the greatest NFL coaches of all time (that Super Bowl trophy is named after him), understood that playing experience helped to make him a better coach. He once said, “Coaches who can outline plays on a blackboard are a dime a dozen. The ones who win get inside their player and motivate.”Can the same be said about Jesus Christ? Is He able to motivate us because He knows what it's like to be human? Is that what makes Him such a great savior... because He doesn't expect us to do anything that He hasn't done Himself?   It's certainly encouraging that Jesus knows what it's like to be human because He is an actual human being! He was conceived, grew, and developed in His mother's womb. He was born and continued to grow from childhood into adulthood, just like human beings do. Throughout His life on earth, He experienced hunger, weariness, sadness, and anger. In every respect, He knows what it's like to be human, and yet He lived His life without sin. He can sympathize with our weaknesses, but He hasn't excused them. It's not like after His 33-year stint on earth, He reported back to His Father, “You know what, that was really hard. I think the expectation You have from them is just too high. You need to lower Your standards and give them some credit for trying real hard. I barely made it. You can't expect them to do much better.” Jesus came in the flesh, not to motivate. He came in the flesh as our substitute- to take our place under God's wrath against sin. He came to cover your sin with His righteousness. If He had not done this, we could never approach His throne of grace with confidence. Instead, we would live our lives in constant fear and trepidation, wondering if we've lived our lives “good enough” to be accepted by Him. Because Christ is our Great High Priest, who has succeeded where we have fallen short and showered us with God's grace and mercy, we have great confidence and hold fast the confession of faith that's been revealed to us. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.O Christ, You walked the road Our wand'ring feet must go. Stay with us through temptation's hour To fight our ancient foe. (LSB 424: 5) Rev. Chad Hoover serves as Campus Pastor and theology teacher at Concordia Lutheran High School in Fort Wayne, IN and pastoral assistant at Emanuel Lutheran Church in New Haven, IN.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

LSB 544, vv.1-2 • Lent 1 Midweek

February 24, 2026Today's Reading: Matthew 11:25-30Daily Lectionary: Genesis 7:11-8:12; Mark 3:20-35“Jesus declared, ‘Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.'” (Matthew 11:28)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Our bodies need rest. Your brain can only study for so long before you need a break. Your voice can only practice singing for so long before it starts to get strained. Your muscles can only work out for so long before they get sore (and not in the good way- you don't get swoll overnight, amiright?). A lot of times, we pride ourselves on working through the pain and struggle and boast about our achievements. But other times, we just get tired and we need to rest. Even then, is it always easy to shut your brain off and stop thinking about what else needs to be added to your list? Can you stop worrying about whether or not you've studied enough for the test, or wonder whether you've done enough reps to get ripped before Spring Break?    We struggle in this life, not only with bodily weariness, but also with spiritual weariness. Jesus invites us to rest in Him. He's the one who labors for us and assures us of everlasting rest in His kingdom.    Battles with sin will just keep coming in this life without reprieve. If we think we've conquered one sin, another is sure to arise and take its place. The Holy Spirit will continue to crush us with God's law, show us our sinfulness, and drive us to the despairing revelation that we are wretched in our sinfulness and tormented by this body of death (cf. Romans 7:24).Here's the promise that God has revealed: through His Word, His Holy Spirit, through Baptism, through Communion, you are yoked with Christ. There is no burden to keep the law. There is no mystery about what needs to be done in order to have salvation. Christ has done it all for you! There is only the promise of life everlasting. Even though we continue to struggle with sin and fail in the face of temptation, this is no indication of our status before God. Your status before Him is not determined by your ability to keep the law– rather, it is determined by your union with Christ.The Christian's struggle against the sinful flesh is truly wearying and burdensome, but Christ has promised you rest. He's promised you life and everlasting salvation in His kingdom despite your sinfulness.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.I rest my soul on Jesus, This weary soul of mine; His right hand me embraces; I on His breast recline. I love the name of Jesus, Immanuel, Christ, the Lord; Like fragrance on the breezes His name abroad is poured (LSB 606: 3)Rev. Chad Hoover serves as Campus Pastor and theology teacher at Concordia Lutheran High School in Fort Wayne, IN and pastoral assistant at Emanuel Lutheran Church in New Haven, IN.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

February 23, 2026Today's Reading: Genesis 3:1-21Daily Lectionary: Genesis 6:1-7:5; Mark 3:1-19“And they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden.” (Genesis 3:8)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Have you ever played hide and seek with a toddler? They're not very good at it. Either their incessant giggling or their inability to pull their entire body behind the sofa gives up their “hiding” spot in a matter of seconds. How do you respond? You pretend you don't hear the child or that you don't see their rump sticking out from underneath the coffee table because it's all part of the game.However, when Adam and Eve hid from God, it was no game at all. Their Fall into sin destroyed their peace and communion with God, and they hid from him because they were afraid, and rightly so. God couldn't pretend that He didn't see their sin or that it wasn't offensive to Him. Their Fall had consequences.    Adam and Eve's attempts to hide from God were ill-fated. God knew where they were hiding, and He knew exactly why they were trying to hide from Him. And yet, remarkably, God sought them. He called out for them and gave them an opportunity to confess their sin. Instead, it turned into the blame game. Adam blamed Eve (and God)! Eve blamed the serpent! God's creation was destroyed. Even still, this sin was not enough for God to stop loving His creation. Instead, He proclaimed the promise of redemption that would come through the seed of the woman, through Christ. He promised to care for mankind despite their Fall into sin.   We have all inherited the sinful nature from Adam. We know that we cannot hide our sin from God. He sees it all, and it is offensive to Him and deserving of His wrath and condemnation. But we also know that the Savior He promised to send has come. He has taken our sin upon Himself and cleanses us from it.  Although it can be painful for us to admit, we faithfully confess our sins, and God, who is faithful and just, will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.      In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.In Adam we have all been one, One huge rebellious man; We all have fled that evening voice That sought us as we ran . . . But Thy strong love, it sought us still And sent Thine only Son That we might hear His Shepherd's voice And, hearing Him, be one (LSB 569:1, 3)Rev. Chad Hoover serves as Campus Pastor and theology teacher at Concordia Lutheran High School in Fort Wayne, IN and pastoral assistant at Emanuel Lutheran Church in New Haven, IN.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

February 21, 2026Today's Reading: Introit for Lent 1 - Psalm 91:1-2, 9-10, 13; antiphon: Psalm 91:15a, c, 16Daily Lectionary: Genesis 3:1-24; Mark 2:1-17“With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.” (Psalm 91:16)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.I'm not from Missouri, but I know that Missouri is known as the “Show Me” state. You might know the phrase “actions speak louder than words.” We can say lots of things, but if our actions don't support our words, you can certainly doubt whether or not the person speaking those words really means it. So too, with love. We can say that we love someone, but if our actions seem contrary to our words, one might question the love we have for them. In other words, if you love me, show me!On Good Friday, the people who were gathered at the cross asked Jesus to show them that He really was who He said He was, the Son of God, by coming down from the cross. One of the criminals on the cross next to Jesus even told Him to save Himself and the two of them on either side of Him. Except the ONLY way that Jesus could show everyone that He really was who He said He was was by NOT coming down from the cross. The only way for Jesus to bring forgiveness and salvation was to remain there until He breathed His last breath and gave up His spirit. Love kept Jesus on the cross. Love for you, love for me, love for the whole world. And it is in His death and His subsequent resurrection from the dead where He is able to show them the salvation that He won for them. As Jesus appears to the women, the disciples, and over 500 people at one time, showing the nail marks in His hands and feet, and His side where the sword pierced Him, they are able to see just how Jesus saved them. It is in His death and resurrection that He shows the world that He has defeated sin, death, and the power of the devil, once and for all. And if Christ is not risen from the dead, our faith is futile, we are still in our sins, and there is no salvation for us. Thanks be to God that Christ has indeed risen from the dead, and will one day come back and take us to be with Him! Thanks be to God that He has given us His Word, where we can hear of His salvation. And thanks be to God that the Holy Spirit creates faith in us through the hearing of that Word, so that by faith we know we also have salvation. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Christ the redeeming Son, who shares our human birth, and by His death salvation won for ev'ry child of earth; Inspire our hearts, we pray, to tell Your love abroad, that all may honor Christ today and follow Him as Lord. (LSB 829:3)Rev. Glenn Worcester, pastor of Peace Lutheran Church, Winnipeg, ManitobaAudio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

February 20, 2026Today's Reading: Mark 1:29-45Daily Lectionary: Genesis 2:4-25; Mark 1:29-45“And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed.” (Mark 1:35)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Healings and more healings. This is what Jesus is doing. But amidst the healings is prayer. Jesus prays. We see this quite often with Jesus, that He goes off alone to pray. Sometimes it's to present specific requests to God and we get to hear them (like the High Priestly Prayer in John 17, or Jesus praying in the Garden of Gethsemane), but sometimes we don't get to hear the conversation He has alone with the Father. We do see that once He finishes praying, He's ready for what comes next. It's almost as if spending time alone with His Father in prayer refreshes, renews, and energizes Him. In Mark 1, after Jesus prays, He sets off for what's next: more healings. Life can be exhausting sometimes. I don't know if you would describe yourself as an introvert or an extrovert. All of us can get tired, exhausted, and worn down from something, whether it's the stresses we face, the pressures of school, family, work, or something else, like just living life. Some introverts are refreshed by being alone, spending time with themselves. I am not one of those people. I get refreshed and energized by being with people. Spending time in prayer can refresh us because we get to be with the One who created us, we get to cast all of our cares, concerns, worries, issues, and burdens on the One who is able to not only handle all of our stuff, but the One who can actually do something about our stuff. This doesn't mean that all of our prayers will be answered. Jesus knew what God's will was in the Garden of Gethsemane, and He prayed for His will to be done. He also asked that the cup would be removed from Him, even though He knew it wouldn't be. Paul writes, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7). Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, who brought peace between us and God through His death and resurrection, gives us peace no matter what God's answer to our prayers is. In Him we can have peace knowing that He is always with us when He says no, and when He says yes.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. Glenn Worcester, pastor of Peace Lutheran Church, Winnipeg, ManitobaAudio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

February 19, 2026Today's Reading: Catechism: Sixth CommandmentDaily Lectionary: Genesis 1:20-2:3; Mark 1:14-28“You shall not commit adultery. What does this mean?” (Sixth Commandment, Luther's Small Catechism)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.I have been a Lutheran for almost my whole life. I was baptized when I was just a couple of months old. I like to think of myself as a first-generation Lutheran because my mom and her whole family were Catholic until my brother and I were baptized in the Lutheran Church. What I have found in these 40+ years of being a Lutheran is that while Luther is great, he doesn't compare to Christ. While Luther in his catechism uses the phrase “what does this mean?”, we've seen it before in God's Word (Exodus 13:14, Acts 2:12). God's Word gives us this Sixth Commandment: You shall not commit adultery.We then insert, “What does this mean?” to which we hear: “We should fear and love God so that we lead a sexually pure and decent life in what we say and do, and husband and wife love and honor each other.”I'm going to be honest. Not my favorite commandment. I'd love to skip over this one. But I won't. I shouldn't. After all, it's one of God's Ten Commandments, right? I mean, two days ago we were talking about love and marriage, and now we get to talk about… lust. Well, lust is one part of this commandment, since God tells us, “everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart” (Matthew 5:28). I have done this too many times to count. Probably more often prior to being married, but even in marriage, the temptation is there. To desire something, someone, whom I have not made vows or promises to. Even though I cannot count the number of times I've broken the Sixth Commandment, every time God has brought me to repentance for these sins, He has forgiven me. More times than I can count. More times than I deserve. And then, by God's grace, I try to lead a life that is pleasing in His sight, not breaking the Sixth Commandment. I cannot do this on my own. I cannot love my wife sacrificially, unconditionally, honoring her with my own strength, without first knowing God's sacrificial, unconditional love for me. Thanks be to God that I can clearly see that in the death and resurrection of Jesus. I don't know what God has in store for you and your life, but my prayer is that He would help you lead a sexually pure and decent life in your singleness, and in your married life if the blessing of a spouse is given to you. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.O Spirit of the Father, breathe on them from above, so searching in Your pureness, so tender in Your love that, guarded by Your presence, and kept from strife and sin, their hearts may heed Your guidance, and know You dwell within (LSB 858:3)Rev. Glenn Worcester, pastor of Peace Lutheran Church, Winnipeg, ManitobaAudio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

LSB 544, v.1 • Ash Wednesday

February 18, 2026Today's Reading: Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21Daily Lectionary: Genesis 1:1-19; Mark 1:1-13“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:21)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.When you think about treasure, maybe you think about buried treasure, chests full of gold, pirates searching for that which is lost, maps where X marks the spot. Martin Luther said in theses #62 (of 95), “the true treasure of the church is the most holy gospel of the glory and grace of God.”The treasure of the Gospel is not about buried chests of gold; rather, it's about the death and burial of Jesus, who saves us “not with perishable things such as silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot” (1 Peter 1:18-19). It's not about pirates searching for lost treasure; it's about the Good Shepherd who seeks to save His lost sheep and bring all people to Himself. It's not about maps where X marks the spot. And if you rotate the X just a little bit, it becomes the shape of a cross. The cross marks the spot where true treasure is found, that cannot perish, spoil, or fade. Today is Ash Wednesday. There's a Lutheran joke that talks about a pastor who, on Ash Wednesday, says, “We are but dust.” To which the little kid in the pew says to their parent, “What's butt dust?” Ash Wednesday reminds us that we are but dust in the sense that “for you are dust and to dust you shall return” (Genesis 3:19). The ashes remind us that death is the punishment for our sin. And one day, when death comes for us, we might have a pastor speak over our body, “ashes to ashes, dust to dust,” as we are laid in the ground. But the ashes in the shape of a cross remind us that even though death may await us, physical death that is, Christ has given His life that we would not face eternal death, Hell. The cross reminds us of the Good News that Jesus took on the fullness of our humanity. He who was without sin became sin for us. And on the cross, He generously gave up His life out of love for us. But Jesus does not return to the dust of the ground because He rises from the dead on the third day. And so, the cross on our foreheads reminds us that though we may return to the dust, we will also rise to new life in Christ on the day of resurrection. Ashes to ashes, dust to dust, resurrection to resurrection, and life to life.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Death, you cannot end my gladness: I am baptized into Christ! When I die, I leave all sadness to inherit paradise! Though I lie in dust and ashes faith's assurance brightly flashes: Baptism has the strength divine to make life immortal mine. (LSB 594:4)Rev. Glenn Worcester, pastor of Peace Lutheran Church, Winnipeg, ManitobaAudio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

February 17, 2026Today's Reading: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13Daily Lectionary: Job 13:1-12; John 6:1-21“Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends.” (1 Corinthians 13:7-8)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.1 Corinthians 13 is a Scripture you might hear quite often at weddings. As a man and woman stand in the presence of God and His people, they declare their love for one another. They make vows to one another, they exchange rings, and are pronounced husband and wife. The vows they make are until death parts them, which means the commitment that they are making to each other to be husband and wife is to love each other in sickness and health, for better or worse, richer or poorer, in the good days and the bad, no matter what life brings them. They are committing to love that never ends. Until it does end.Because not every man and woman who makes those promises to one another keeps them. Not every man and woman who promises to love their spouse until death parts them does exactly that. If you're a child of divorce, like me, or if you have seen marriages of people that are close to you end, like me, you might know this quite well. So, why does this happen? Why do marriages end? Why can't people keep their promises? Why can't people love no matter the circumstances? In short, sin. Sin has caused all of us to be imperfect people. And imperfect people have imperfect marriages. Imperfect people don't keep promises. Imperfect people love conditionally, rather than unconditionally. This means their love for their spouse is conditional on certain things (their spouse loves them in return, does certain things for them making them worthy/deserving to be loved, etc.). If those conditions are not met, the spouse thinks he/she does not have to love them. Thank goodness this is not how God loves us! He loves us unconditionally. This means that His love for us is not conditional on anything we do. If it were, I know that God would not have very much love for me at all. I am unworthy of God's love, and He still loves me. In fact, He loves me so much that He sent His Only Son, Jesus Christ, for ME. To die on the cross for me, rise from the dead for me, for my sins, to bring me forgiveness, life, and salvation. And He has done the same for YOU. The unconditional, sacrificial love that God has for us is seen most clearly in Jesus Christ, who is the bridegroom of His bride, the Church. And His love for us never ends.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Father, You created Adam, crafted Eve, and made them one; Jesus, from their sin You saved us, as God's true incarnate Son; Holy Spirit, You forgive us; from our sins we are released. Bring us, Lord, at last to heaven, to the endless wedding feast. (LSB 860:5)Rev. Glenn Worcester, pastor of Peace Lutheran Church, Winnipeg, ManitobaAudio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

February 15, 2026Today's Reading: Luke 18:31-43Daily Lectionary: Job 11:1-20; John 5:19-29“And those who were in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent. But he cried out all the more, ‘Son of David, have mercy on me!'” (Luke 18:39)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Have you ever had someone ask you to do something, and you didn't listen to them? A parent? A friend? A sibling? A teacher? A coach? A boss? Or have you ever asked someone to do something for you, and they didn't listen to you?Depending on the situation, sometimes when people don't listen to what we're saying, in order to get them to hear us, we might shout it. I have three kids, ages nine, seven, and four. There have been plenty of times where we've had to shout at our kids because we want to keep them safe (crossing the street without looking, running in a parking lot, running on a dock without a life jacket on, play fighting with pointy sticks, the list goes on and on).The blind beggar cried out to Jesus because he wanted Him. When the people tried to silence him, he cried out even louder. Even though this blind beggar had not seen Jesus, he had heard about Him and believed in Him. Sometimes you hear faith described as “believing without seeing.” Certainly, in this instance, it's fitting. And what did he want from Jesus? Mercy. I've sometimes heard mercy described as “not getting what we deserve.” We, who have not seen Jesus, ask Him to be merciful to us, too. In our confession of sins, sometimes we say the words of the tax collector, “God be merciful to me a sinner” (Luke 18:13). We do not deserve God's forgiveness because we are sinners. We deserve death, we deserve Hell. God would be just and right in giving us that. Instead, God in His mercy gives us Jesus to be the atonement for our sins, sacrificing His life voluntarily on the cross for us, not giving us what we deserve. He gives what we deserve to Jesus. Jesus suffered death and Hell for us. And in faith, gifted to us by the Holy Spirit, we receive Christ's mercy. In faith, we don't get Hell; we get heaven and eternal life. Thanks be to God!And in our daily living, we can cry out to God for healing, for help in struggles, for whatever we need. And no matter how loud we are, we know He hears us, and answers according to His good and gracious will.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.O God of mercy, God of might, in love and pity infinite, teach us, as ever in Thy sight, to live our lives in Thee. And Thou, who cam'st on earth to die that our lost world might live thereby, O hear us; for to Thee we cry, in hope O Lord, to Thee. (LSB 852:1, 2)Rev. Glenn Worcester, pastor of Peace Lutheran Church, Winnipeg, ManitobaAudio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

February 13, 2026Today's Reading: John 4:46-54Daily Lectionary: Job 9:1-35 “Jesus said to him, 'Go; your son will live.” (John 4:50)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Isn't it amazing how Jesus can make the most ridiculously absurd statements and no one from among His followers ever questions Him? Pharisees and Sadducees seemingly get paid by the inquiry, but that's for another time. But really, if we made some of the claims Jesus did, people would stare at us and no doubt argue.  Not so, though, with Jesus. Because Jesus does something we cannot do. He backs up every statement He makes with proof, with action. In fact, without fail, everything He says comes to pass!  What a reading we have before us today. In John 4, Jesus heals the official's son. The man desperately searches out the One he has heard could do something for his son—heal him before he dies.  If only we had the faith of this official. While we give lip service to knowing the One who heals the sick, casts out demons, raises the dead, and saves the sinner, all too often our actions don't support that. Deep down, we cling to bits of doubt. Yes, Jesus has healed, but what if He doesn't this time? Sure, He has risen from the dead, but what if I am not worthy enough? I know He has forgiven some sins, but what if He doesn't forgive mine? Surely I have to assist in salvation in some way.  Such thinking is dangerous and does not seem to enter the mind of the official in our text. “The official said to him, ‘Sir, come down before my child dies.'  Jesus said to him, 'Go; your son will live.' The man believed the word that Jesus spoke to him and went on his way.  As he was going down, his servants met him and told him that his son was recovering.” (John 4:49-51) Now, here is what we need to remember from this account. First, what faith this man has to believe Jesus would do exactly what He says. Second, Jesus NEVER enters the official's house. He NEVER physically looks upon his dying child. He doesn't need to. His power does not lie solely in seeing or touching… No! What we sing in the hymn “Thy Strong Word” is absolutely true. What breaks the darkness? What bespeaks us righteous?  The strong, powerful Word of God! In Baptism, in the Lord's Supper, Creation, the Word of God holds ALL the power! It does. In His Word, He declares you to be His precious child. In His Word, He declares you forgiven of all your sins! In the Word which became flesh and dwelt among us, who took you who were dead in your trespasses and sins and raised you to new life. Nothing our Lord says is ridiculous, absurd, or untrue. He speaks peace, truth, and life for you. Which is why He urges us to “abide in My word.” (John 8:31) Remain in that which holds all the power. That which creates, gives light, and makes us righteous. The Word of God.    In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Thy strong word did cleave the darkness At Thy speaking it was done For created light we thank Thee While Thy ordered seasons run. (LSB 578:1)Rev. Timothy Chase, pastor at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Truman, MNAudio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

February 12, 2026Today's Reading: Catechism: Fifth CommandmentDaily Lectionary: Job 8:1-22; John 4:27-45You shall not murder. What does this mean? We should fear and love God so that we do not hurt or harm our neighbor in his body, but help and support him in every physical need.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.This might sound absurd to say, but the Fifth Commandment is a hard life lesson to learn. Face value, it could be our favorite, though. You shall not kill? I will go out on a limb and say that everyone reading this devotion today can say, “Yes! I have kept this commandment! I haven't killed anyone, mark it down as the only commandment I have kept!”  Enter Martin Luther, who is the killjoy of the party. The Lord God says, “You shall not kill.” Luther says in his explanation of this Commandment, “We should fear and love God so that we do not hurt or harm our neighbor in his body…” (Explanation of the 5th Commandment)  How many can check that box? A few less to be sure.  And then we realize Jesus has something to say about this. He says, “Everyone who is angry with his brother is liable to judgment… [and] the fires of hell.” (Matthew 5:22)St. John even gets in on the action and says, “Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.” (1 John 3:15)All of a sudden, we are all standing here condemned by the Law in the sight of God, realizing we deserve to be cast into the outer darkness, where Jesus says there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.    Thanks be to God for the Gospel! Praise God, He has taught us through parents, pastors, and teachers that even this sin lies forgiven in His sight for the sake of Jesus. To the one who hates His brother, who has hurt or harmed his brother, even the one who has taken a life, Jesus took that to the cross and died for it.  Understand, it is for this reason that God continues to send His messengers to call us to repentance. Jesus' death is the payment for ALL sin. What the prophet Ezekiel was inspired to write is true! “Repent and turn from all your transgressions, lest iniquity be your ruin. Cast away from you all the transgressions that you have committed, and make yourselves a new heart and a new spirit! Why will you die, O house of Israel? For I have no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Lord God; so turn, and live.” (Ezekiel 18:30-32)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Chief of Sinners though I be, Jesus shed His blood for me. Died that I might live on high, Lives that I might never die. As the branch is to the vine, I am His and He is mine. (LSB 611:1)Rev. Timothy Chase, pastor at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Truman, MNAudio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the one-hundredth-and-thirtieth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.' Hosted by MAJ Amy Beatty, the Task Force Executive Officer Observer-Coach-Trainer from Task Force Sustainment (Division Sustainment Support Battalion / Light Support Battalion) on behalf of the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today's guest is MAJ Alice Bechtol, the Executive Officer for the 325th Light Support Battalion of 3rd Mobile Brigade, 25th Infantry Division.   The 325th Light Support Battalion, known by its Hollywood call sign “Mustang” and guided by the motto “Support to the Front,” serves as the sustainment backbone of 3rd Brigade Combat Team. Stationed in Hawaii and aligned to fight in the Indo-Pacific, the battalion traces its lineage to the Army's modular transformation era, evolving from a Brigade Support Battalion into a Light Support Battalion under the Army's restructuring efforts. As part of the “Bronco” Brigade within the 25th Infantry Division, the 325th LSB has adapted its structure and sustainment concepts to meet the demands of archipelagic and jungle operations, emphasizing smaller distribution packages, agile base cluster designs, and expeditionary logistics capable of supporting dispersed maneuver forces across restrictive terrain.      This episode examines lessons learned from a Light Support Battalion (LSB) executing a DATE-Pacific archipelago rotation at JPMRC, with a strong focus on sustainment command-and-control, base cluster design, and staff proficiency under high turnover. A central theme is the deliberate investment in MDMP repetitions prior to deployment—conducting multiple internal reps despite 80% personnel turnover—to build shared understanding and accelerate staff performance in the box. Leaders discuss the importance of not waiting for a “perfect” higher headquarters order, instead executing concurrent MDMP, publishing early, and refining through FRAGOs to maintain tempo. The battalion's approach to battle tracking—assigning mission numbers to both forecasted and unforecasted sustainment requirements—allowed the staff to regain control of chaotic demand signals and manage flash taskings without losing visibility. Additionally, the LSB experimented with splitting its staff between tactical and main command posts to preserve survivability while maintaining continuity in day/night operations, accepting friction in order to train to the harder standard.    The discussion also highlights the sustainment realities of operating in a Pacific archipelago environment, where terrain, vegetation, and dispersed maneuver elements require smaller, more agile distribution packages. Leaders describe efforts to break bulk commodities down earlier in the sustainment chain, leverage smaller platforms, experiment with caches, and refine fuel and water distribution concepts to better support infantry formations operating at slower movement rates in restrictive terrain. Integration with the Division Sustainment Brigade under the new R-struct proved beneficial, particularly through synchronized battle rhythms and shared intelligence and communications awareness, while maintaining strong habitual relationships with maneuver battalions and their Combat Logistics Companies (CLCs). The overarching takeaway is that success in this environment required disciplined MDMP, flexible sustainment packaging, protected staff development, and a willingness to adapt systems and processes in real time to preserve tempo and survivability in LSCO.   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.

February 11, 2026Today's Reading: Job 7:1-21Daily Lectionary: John 4:7-26“What is man, that you make so much of him, and that you set your heart on him, visit him every morning and test him every moment?” (Job 7:17-18)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Not the most uplifting text from Job 7, is it? So much so that I almost didn't pick it.  Job wasn't very happy…and why should he be? His life was in shambles, a complete disaster. He lost children, servants, animals, everything! And in His sorrow and depression, he has the wherewithal to write it all down? Not to be mean, but who would want to read an entire chapter of complaining? Did you happen to catch the title of Job 7? “My life has no hope.” It is a Biblical temper tantrum!  And yet, in the midst of his frustrations, there is a clear Gospel message. Look at verses 1-21 again. Did you see it? Probably not. But, I promise it is there!  Think about this. Job is complaining to no end, having a bit of a hissy fit. Who, I ask you, heard that hissy fit? Who heard Job as he complained about his miserable life?  God! Job felt unrighteous and unworthy in every way. Even though he felt that he had been abandoned to Sheol, even though he felt lonely, sad, and even a bit depressed, guess what? It was only a feeling. And that feeling was far from the truth. God was there. The truth is, though Job had lost so much, though He felt like all was lost and that he was alone, God never left Job's side!  You might not feel all that different from Job. Abandoned, lonely, depressed, unholy, unworthy of the love of the Father.   And yet, God is as near to you as He was to Job! You are in His presence daily because He is always with you. Through Confession and Absolution, He purifies you and brings you into His presence as you come into His holy house to be served by Him each Lord's Day.  This was the same truth for the woman in our other reading today from John 4, whom Jesus encountered at the well. She didn't belong in the presence of Jesus any more than Jesus belonged at the well at high noon. And yet, the love of Jesus knows no barriers. He doesn't come only to those who are worthy and pure. For Jesus Himself says, “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” (Luke 19:10) He Himself is the purifier and perfector of all things through His death upon the cross.    And what joy, He comes, calls, and purifies you for His name's sake. Thanks be to God.  In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Just as I am, without one plea But that Thy blood was shed for me And that Thou bidd'st me come to Thee O Lamb of God I come, I come. (LSB 570:1)Rev. Timothy Chase, pastor at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Truman, MNAudio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

February 10, 2026Today's Reading: 2 Corinthians 11:19-12:9Daily Lectionary: Job 6:14-30; John 3:22-4:6“He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'” (2 Corinthians 12:9)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.What an excellent reminder of what we discussed on Monday, how our Lord plants the seeds of faith everywhere, even in places that seem unlikely. We all know Paul's past, soiled with persecution of Christians, dragging men, women, and children bound in chains to Jerusalem to be put to death for following “the Way” Acts 9:2. And yet, the seed which was planted in his heart bore fruit that day on the road to Damascus.  You would think that going from persecutor to champion of the faith would be a great lifestyle change—from turmoil to tranquil, almost. However, Paul's life, post-conversion, post-planting of the faith (though his heart was indeed a pleasant planting), was anything but a peaceful valley of blooming flowers.  The words that we read today, especially from 2 Corinthians 12, are very familiar to us. “Thorns in the flesh.” “Messengers of Satan.” He never says exactly what this struggle that plagues him is, and for good reason. The truth is, these messengers and thorns show up in all shapes, sizes, and forms. Satan surrounds us day and night to harass us and steal our focus from where it should be.  Dark secrets, addictions, hatred, jealousy, whatever it is, they all seek to distract us from the truth, turn our eyes away from God, and in turn destroy our faith. As we daily struggle with these thorns, Paul's prayer, while not specifically written down, becomes our prayer. “Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'” (2 Corinthians 12:8-9)God's grace is sufficient. God's grace strengthens and sustains you. In His Grace, He sent His only begotten Son to be born of the Virgin Mary. So that He would, by what is seen as weakness by worldly standards (being betrayed, beaten, and crucified, and in a humiliating way), He would reveal His power and glory. And, what is more, by the death of the only begotten Son, He would destroy the messengers and thorns of Satan!  It is by our Baptism into the death and resurrection of His Son that the victory has been passed on to us. He has cast out the messengers of Satan that harass us. They have been rendered powerless against us by the work of Jesus Christ. Thanks be to God for such sufficient grace!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 566:6)Rev. Timothy Chase, pastor at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Truman, MNAudio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

Preacher: Seminarian Brian SchneckSubmit 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.Text Your Questions & Comments Here!

February 7, 2026Today's Reading: Introit for Sexagesima - Psalm 44:1-2, 7-8; antiphon: Psalm 44:23, 25a, 26aDaily Lectionary: Job 4:1-21; John 2:1-12“But you have saved us from our foes and have put to shame those who hate us. In God we have boasted continually, and we will give thanks to your name forever.” (Psalm 44:7-8)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Almighty God has enemies. And by extension, so do those who are baptized into Christ and bear His holy Name. That may sound strange at first. Who would be foolish enough to stand against the Almighty? And yet the Devil did exactly that. He rebelled, and ever since, he has waged war against God and His people. Death entered the world as a result of sin, a grim reminder that the world is not the way it was meant to be. Sin itself constantly seeks to overthrow the Lord and set up idols in His place, false gods of wealth, comfort, power, and self.These enemies of Satan, death, and sin are no match for God, but they are formidable foes for us. Death breaks into our lives, stealing loved ones and filling us with dread. The Devil entices with lies that seem reasonable, and he preys on our weaknesses. Sin deceives us into thinking we know better than God. And we must admit that we are not just victims. Our sinful nature eagerly follows along. The old Adam within us is not reluctant; he is a willing participant in rebellion.But God is not absent or passive. His strength is not found in raw displays of power, but in the humility and sacrifice of Christ Jesus. The cross, which looks like weakness and foolishness to the world, is in truth the power of God unto salvation. There, Christ disarmed the Devil, broke the power of death, and bore the weight of all sin. What looked like defeat was the decisive victory.Through Jesus' death and resurrection, the enemies of God and of us, His people, have been put to shame. The Devil has lost his accusing voice. Death has lost its sting. Sin has been atoned for. And so, like the psalmist, we boast in the Lord. We boast not in ourselves, not in our strength, but in Christ alone. He has saved us from these terrible foes.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.O little flock, fear not the foe who madly seeks your overthrow; dread not his rage and pow'r. And though your courage sometimes faints, his seeming triumph o'er God's saints lasts but a little hour. Amen. (LSB 666:1)Rev. Christopher Brademeyer, St. John's Lutheran Church in Oakes, NDAudio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

February 6, 2026Today's Reading: Job 3:11-26Daily Lectionary: John 1:35-51“I am not at ease, nor am I quiet; I have no rest, but trouble comes.” (Job 3:26)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Everyone has a bad day. Some days are worse than others. In fact, some are downright terrible. Job had one of these terrible times. He was robbed of his children, his possessions, even his health. The book of Job is often hard to read. He is utterly miserable, even longing for death. This is not easy stuff for us to hear or think about. And while preachers and teachers often hold up Job as a model of steadfast faith amid hardship, we should not overlook the depth of his despair.Statistically speaking, many today feel just like Job. Anxiety and depression, even to the point of wishing for death, are increasingly common. Chances are, everyone reading this either knows someone who suffers from these afflictions or has struggled with them personally. What makes this kind of suffering so difficult is that it is not visible like a physical wound. There is no easy bandage or quick remedy for the grief of the heart and the anguish of the soul.But the book of Job does not leave him wallowing in the dust. His friends Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar came to sit with him. They did not get everything right; they even made some things worse with their advice. But they came. They showed up. They sat in silence for seven days. And even in their imperfection, they remind us what Christian compassion can look like. We may not be able to fix a given situation or explain it, but we can show up.Most importantly, God did not abandon Job. Though Job struggled, he never cursed God, because he knew, somehow, that God was still his Redeemer. And Job was right. In chapter 19, Job makes a bold confession: “I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last He will stand upon the earth.” He believed in the resurrection. He trusted in a Deliverer.God does not promise us a life without suffering. In fact, He prepares us to expect it. But He does give us something even greater: Jesus Christ, who suffered in our place, endured the cross, and rose again. He meets us in our darkest days and leads us through death and despair to resurrection and life everlasting.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.When in the hour of deepest need we know not where to look for aid; when days and nights of anxious thought no help or counsel yet have brought, then is our comfort this alone that we may meet before Your throne; to You, O faithful God, we cry for rescue in our misery. For You have promised, Lord, to heed Your children's cries in time of need through Him whose name alone is great, our Savior and our advocate. Amen. (LSB 615:1-3)Rev. Christopher Brademeyer, St. John's Lutheran Church in Oakes, NDAudio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

February 4, 2026Today's Reading: 1 Corinthians 9:24-10:5Daily Lectionary: Job 1:1-22; John 1:1-18“But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.” (1 Corinthians 9:27)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.The Christian life is a life of discipline. We do not let the passions of the flesh, our bodily desires and appetites, rule over us. We do not indulge every fancy or feeling we have. We certainly do not assume that whatever our inner selves want is automatically good and right. As Jesus says, “It is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person” (Matthew 15:11).St. Paul warns us here of the real spiritual danger in allowing our sinful desires to go unchecked. We must discipline ourselves. We must struggle daily against sin. We must drown the Old Adam, our sinful nature, in the waters of our Baptism every single day. And this is no mere lifestyle management. As Paul goes on to note, if we allow ourselves to grow complacent and let down our guard, we may find ourselves drifting away from the faith and forfeiting the promises given in Christ, just as not everyone who crossed the Red Sea entered the Promised Land.This is a hard but necessary Word from God, spoken through the Apostle Paul. We are encouraged to fight the good fight, run the race faithfully, and remain diligent and watchful against sin and every form of evil in our own persons. We must resist the popular idea that doctrine is unimportant, that all religions are equally true, or that all our inborn desires are good and wholesome.In a world that tells us to follow our hearts and trust our feelings, St. Paul reminds us that the Christian life is not about comfort, but cross-bearing. Discipline is not about self-perfection; it is about staying close to Jesus. And what is the reward of this disciplined life? The very salvation won for us by Christ. Not because our efforts earn this great gift, but because such discipline keeps our eyes fixed on the prize. It keeps us oriented away from this world and its countless distractions and our attention fixed on our Savior. We do not run aimlessly. We do not live without purpose. Our goal is Christ, the One who gave Himself for us and our forgiveness.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Let no false doctrine me beguile; Let Satan not my soul defile. Give strength and patience unto me to bear my cross and follow Thee. Lord Jesus Christ, my God and Lord, my God and Lord, in death Thy comfort still afford. Amen. (LSB 708:2)Rev. Christopher Brademeyer, St. John's Lutheran Church in Oakes, NDAudio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

February 3, 2026Today's Reading: Exodus 17:1-7Daily Lectionary: Zechariah 14:1-21; Titus 2:7-3:15“Behold, I will stand before you there on the rock at Horeb, and you shall strike the rock, and water shall come out of it, and the people will drink.' And Moses did so, in the sight of the elders of Israel.” (Exodus 17:6)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.It often seems that the more we have, the more we complain. Think of a child who gets everything he or she wants and still throws a fit in the toy store. We chuckle or roll our eyes at such a child, but if we are honest, we have all acted like that. Perhaps it was not in the toy aisle, but in our hearts, our homes, and even our prayers.In modern life, especially in the United States, we are constantly surrounded by abundance. The average American household ranks among the top 1% of global income earners. We have homes, cars, phones, entertainment, food, and medicine in abundance. These gifts are things that previous generations could not even have seen in their sweetest of dreams. And yet we still find things to be dissatisfied about. Whether coveting a better job, a newer phone, more vacation time, or different people in our lives, we grumble, even when our lives are overflowing with gifts.Spiritually speaking, this grumbling is not a small thing. It reveals that we are often ungrateful toward God. The Lord teaches us to pray for daily bread, and He provides it, but instead of giving thanks, we often complain that it is not the kind of bread we wanted. This is the sin of Israel in the wilderness. God had delivered them from slavery in Egypt. He parted the Red Sea, fed them with manna from heaven, and led them by a pillar of cloud and fire. Yet they grumbled: “Why did you bring us out here to die? We miss Egypt!”But God did something remarkable. He did not destroy His people. He did not send them back to Egypt. Instead, He gave them water from a rock, a miraculous sign of His grace and provision. And that rock, says St. Paul in 1 Corinthians 10:4, was Christ. He is the Rock from whom living water flows. He is the One who hears our complaints, bears our sins, and still gives us grace. Even for ungrateful people like us, He offers forgiveness and life. So repent of your grumbling. Return thanks to God. And drink deeply of the mercy that flows from Christ your Rock.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.O my God, my rock and tower, grant that in Your death I trust, knowing death has lost its power since You crushed it in the dust. Amen. (LSB 421:6)Rev. Christopher Brademeyer, St. John's Lutheran Church in Oakes, NDAudio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

Scripture Reading: Revelation 14:9-20 In the middle of a biblical text about the dreadful wrath of God is a passage designed to be a great encouragement to Christians.  Following a passage declaring the God's wrath "poured full strength into the cup of his anger" (Rev 14:10), we read about the "perseverance of the saints who keep the commandments of God and their faith in Jesus" (Rev 14:12, LSB). The doctrine of the perseverance of the saints is the idea that, having been changed at the deepest level of one's being by the Spirit of God, Christians "can neither totally nor finally fall away from the state of grace; but shall certainly persevere therein to the end, and be eternally saved" (Westminster Confession of Faith, XVII:1). Perseverance in the Christian faith is both a wondrous encouragement and a sober test.  We are able to hold fast to our faith, and will hold it fast, because we have become reconciled to God … and because of this reconciliation Christ will one day present us before God the Father as holy.  This is ultimate security in Christ.  The sober test is this … perseverance in the faith is evidence that someone's faith is genuine.  Those who have true faith continue in the faith.  Those who do not continue in the faith only show they have never been reconciled to God in the first place.

January 31, 2026Today's Reading: Introit for Septuagesima - Psalm 18:1-2a, 27, 32, 49; antiphon: Psalm 18:5-6aDaily Lectionary: Zechariah 10:1-11:3; 2 Timothy 3:1-17“I love you, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer.” (Psalm 18:1-2a)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.David had once soothed Saul's troubled soul with his music (1 Samuel 16:23). Soon, though, Saul became suspicious of David and jealous of his successes. Jealousy soon turned to hatred, and Saul attempted to kill David on multiple occasions. But the Lord was with David and delivered him from Saul as he had delivered him from the lion, the bear, and the giant Goliath. His response is a love Psalm. “I love you, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer.” These words begin a litany of praise for God's mighty works. The Psalm concludes, “For this I will praise you, O Lord, among the nations, and sing to your name. Great salvation he brings to his king, and shows steadfast love to his anointed, to David and his offspring forever” (Psalm 18:49-50). It's such an important Psalm that Scripture records it twice: first, in the 18th entry of the book of Psalms, and second in 2 Samuel 22. Why the repetition? This Psalm, as with every other Psalm, is only secondarily a Psalm of David (or of any other author). The Psalms are primarily the songs of Jesus. He is the author by His Holy Spirit, and He has only lent these words to His forefathers in the flesh until the time that He takes them upon His lips. Psalm 18 is important because it also speaks of the mightiest act of God: “the cords of Sheol entangled me; the snares of death confronted me. In my distress I called upon the Lord; to my God I cried for help. From his temple he heard my voice, and my cry to him reached his ears” (Psalm 18:5b-6). Psalm 18 sings of the resurrection. Where David only came near death, Jesus was ensnared by it. But as Jesus prayed Psalm 18, His Father, the Lord God Almighty, heard His voice, and He delivered Him from the grave on the third day. There is no greater love than someone laying down His life for His friends. The Lord has laid down His life for you. He is the Rock who emerged from the tomb cut in the rock. He is the mighty fortress that stands strong against all foes. He is the deliverer from death and the grave.I love You, O Lord.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Thee will I love, my strength, my tower; Thee will I love, my hope, my joy. Thee will I love with all my power, With ardor time shall ne'er destroy. Thee will I love, O Light divine, So long as life is mine. (LSB 694:1)Author: Rev. Jacob Ehrhard, pastor of St. John's Lutheran Church and School in Chicago, IL.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

January 30, 2026Today's Reading: Catechism: Third CommandmentDaily Lectionary: Zechariah 9:1-17; 2 Timothy 2:1-26“But what is meant by keeping it holy?” “Nothing else than to be occupied with holy words, works, and life.” (Large Catechism I 87)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.The first holy day was the seventh day of creation. “So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it God rested from all his work that he had done in creation” (Genesis 2:3). It was a holy day not because it was more special than the days that had preceded it. In fact, each of the first six days could be considered more special because of God's wonderful creations on each day. The seventh day was distinct not because of the work God accomplished, but because of the Word He spoke. His blessing blessed His day of rest.Whether it's a day of rest or a day of work, a day is holy because it “is a day the Lord has made” (Psalm 118:24) and a day in which God speaks and blesses. The government or other earthly institutions may declare some days to be holidays, but a true holiday (holy day) is the one that is made holy by God's Word, whether the world recognizes it or not.God makes a day a holy day, but we are commanded to keep it holy. The Large Catechism gives three ways that we keep the day holy.First, we should be occupied with holy words. This begins with God's Word. A day of rest isn't purely to pursue leisure, but to clear room to attend the Divine Service, where God speaks publicly through the ministry of the church. And having received God's holy Word, we then speak holy words. First in prayer, praise, and thanksgiving to God for His great works. For when we rest, God goes to work in us to make us holy by His Word. And having been sanctified, we commit to sanctified speech with one another.Second, we should be occupied with holy works. Holy works are not distinct from other works because of their quality, but because they are works performed by holy people. God sanctifies us by His Word, which also extends to our works. Yes, we still sin on account of the weakness of our flesh, but God continues to sanctify us and the things that we do by His mercy, forgiveness, and the gifts of His grace.Finally, we should be occupied with a holy life. Holy words and works should not be sequestered to the time of worship—the holiness of God, which He imparts to us, should pervade our lives. We should be occupied by holy words and works every day. Thus, every day becomes a Sabbath Day made holy by God's Word and blessing. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.“You shall observe the worship day That peace may fill your home, and pray, And put aside the work you do, So that God may work in you.”Have mercy, Lord! (LSB 581:4)Author: Rev. Jacob Ehrhard, pastor of St. John's Lutheran Church and School in Chicago, IL.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

January 29, 2026Today's Reading: 2 Peter 1:16-21Daily Lectionary: Zechariah 8:1-23; 2 Timothy 1:1-18“And we have the prophetic word more fully confirmed, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place.” (2 Peter 1:19a)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.The Transfiguration of our Lord was certainly a spectacle. Literally, it was something that Peter, James, and John saw with their own eyes. Peter confirms this: “For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty” (2 Peter 1:16). And not only did they see with their own eyes, they also heard with their own ears: “For when he received honor and glory from God the Father, and the voice was borne to him by the Majestic Glory, ‘This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased,' we ourselves heard this very voice borne from heaven, for we were with him on the holy mountain” (2 Peter 1:17–18).But only three people saw the spectacle of the divine majesty on the holy mountain and heard the voice borne from heaven. If God really wants the world to believe in Him and be saved, wouldn't it make sense to show that majesty to everyone, to speak from heaven so that the whole world could hear? Why not let everyone see with their own eyes and hear with their own ears?The irony is that, should God reveal His majestic glory and speak from heaven, it would not be for our good. Remember that Peter, James, and John fell down like dead men and were clueless at the time as to what the revelation meant. Further, God does not want to be known as blinding glory and a disembodied voice. He wants to be known in the flesh because He does not save the world by showing His glory; He saves the world by suffering death on a cross.So, “we have the prophetic word more fully confirmed, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts, knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation. For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit” (2 Peter 1:19-20). The light of Scripture isn't the blinding majestic glory, but the Christ, crucified and risen as the morning star before the dawn of a new creation.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.God's Word is our great heritage And shall be ours forever; To spread its light from age to age Shall be our chief endeavor. Through life it guides our way, In death it is our stay. Lord, grant, while worlds endure, We keep its teachings pure Throughout all generations. (LSB 581:1)Author: Rev. Jacob Ehrhard, pastor of St. John's Lutheran Church and School in Chicago, IL.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

January 28, 2026Today's Reading: Exodus 34:29-35 or Exodus 3:1-14Daily Lectionary: Zechariah 6:1-7:14; Romans 16:17-27“Moses did not know that the skin of his face shone because he had been talking with God.” (Exodus 34:29)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.In the Transfiguration of our Lord, we see the communication, or the delivery, of the divine majesty to the human nature of Jesus. This means that things that are normally only true of God are also true of the human being Jesus Christ. Normally, human flesh and blood does not shine with uncreated light as bright as the sun. But the human flesh of Jesus shines with the light of divine glory. This is not because of any quality of the human nature, but because in the union of God and man in the person of Jesus, the divine nature lends its light to the human.But that's Jesus. The God-man. The one and only Son of God who assumed human nature in the unity of person. The one in whom the whole fullness of Deity dwells bodily (Colossians 2:9). No other human being who has ever walked this earth has been personally united with one of the persons of the Holy Trinity. But the fact that the Son of God has communicated His divine glory to the human flesh and blood He assumed in His person opens the possibility for other flesh-and-blood humans to receive the Gifts of divine majesty.And Moses shows that it does, in fact, happen. After conversing with God and writing the commands of God on a replacement set of stone tables, he comes back down the mountain. “Moses did not know that the skin of his face shone because he had been talking with God.” Normally, human flesh does not shine with light. But Moses' skin shone. While Scripture does not say that its brilliance was like the sun (as was the Transfiguration of Jesus), they still had to put a veil over his face (Exodus 34:33).If Jesus' face shone like the sun with its own divine light, then the face of Moses shone like the moon, reflecting the glory of God. And do not miss the cause: “because he had been talking with God.” Moses' face shines with borrowed light communicated to him by the Word of God.You, too, shine with a certain borrowed light when you hear the Word of God and keep it. St. Paul urges you to be “children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life” (Philippians 2:15b–16a). This light is God's by nature, but yours by grace. Follow Jesus and you will not walk in darkness, but you will have the light of life (John 8:12).In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Renew me, O eternal Light, And let my heart and soul be bright, Illumined with the light of grace That issues from Your holy face. (LSB 704:1)Author: Rev. Jacob Ehrhard, pastor of St. John's Lutheran Church and School in Chicago, IL.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

January 27, 2026Today's Reading: Matthew 17:1-9Daily Lectionary: Zechariah 4:1-5:11; Romans 15:14-33“And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became white as light.” (Matthew 17:2)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Had you encountered Jesus during His time of humiliation, that is, from His incarnation and birth through His final breath on the cross and His burial, there would be nothing remarkable to behold. Isaiah prophesied this when he wrote, “he had no form or majesty that we should look at him, and no beauty that we should desire him” (Isaiah 53:2). Jesus looked like any other human being.What gained Him notoriety were the things He did and the things He said. Healings and other marvels, like feeding thousands on a couple of occasions, drew attention. His words cut two ways: some clung to them for dear life; others grew ever more resentful until they were driven to murder to shut His mouth. But He looked like any other person when He did the things He did and said the things He said. Even when He walked on water, He looked like an ordinary person doing an extraordinary thing.The exception was His Transfiguration. On that mountain, He took on a new form. Not that He abandoned the flesh and blood He had assumed at His incarnation—rather, He set aside for a moment the form of a servant He had taken at His incarnation (Philippians 2:7). The figure He revealed on the mountain was the figure of a man and also at the same time more than man. Jesus revealed the divine glory and majesty that He had humbly hidden, but was always there.The Transfiguration demonstrates the full and complete unity of God and man in the person of Jesus Christ. This union is so full and complete that the Son of God communicates the divine majesty to human flesh and blood. The regular, ordinary, normally unremarkable human being who said and did some noteworthy things shines with the glory of God. In this union, God elevates the human creature to a heavenly life. The glimpse of divine glory Jesus reveals on the mountain is also a preview of the glory that awaits those who are in Christ. By faith in His Word and participation in His body in the Sacrament, we become members of His body, which shines with divine glory. For a time in this world, the glory remains hidden under suffering and the cross. But “this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison” (2 Corinthians 4:17) when Jesus returns.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.With shining face and bright array Christ deigns to manifest today What glory shall be theirs above Who joy in God with perfect love. (LSB 413:3)Author: Rev. Jacob Ehrhard, pastor of St. John's Lutheran Church and School in Chicago, IL.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

House, funk, soul, disco, reggae, hip hop, afrobeats, UKG, drum & bass and all manner of beats for open-minded listeners. Fresh releases and classic gems, presented by DJ D'Francisco direct from London. New episode every Sunday night. Catch the pod live every Friday afternoon on www.musicboxradio.co.uk 3-5 UK time, as a podcast or at www.mixcloud.com/francisco Contact: fdisco@hotmail.com / @frankiedisco54 Tracklist: Kels - Gone Son Little - Your Love Will Blow Me Away Liz Lands - One Mans Poison Capleton - No Sell Your Souls ft. The Irie Ites Gappy Ranks - Put The Stereo On Super Cat - History Corrado Alunni - Any Time Art of Tones - Bootyshaker Martin Circus - Disco Circus (FK Edit) The Fatback Band - Keep On Steppin' Calibre - Living in Truth DRS - The View (ft. LSB & Tyler Daley) PFM - One and Only Groove Armada - Love Sweet Sound (Nautica Remix) A Studio - S.O.S (Dubdeluxe Mix) Adeva - Respect (Miltons Slutty Mix) Your friend daao - Shadow Dance Shadow Child & Bodhi - Um (MJ Cole Mix) Masterstepz - Melody MoMa Ready - Late Night Love Oli Furness - OverJack Gee & Pig Bwoy - Take You Inside 4 For Money - Its A Moment In Time (Rising High Dub) Sound Design - Razen Theme  

Luxembourg School of Business research challenges generational stereotypes on job-hopping, hybrid work and values. Are younger generations really less loyal at work? Do they care more about purpose than pay? And is hybrid working fundamentally a Gen Z demand? A new Luxembourg School of Business (LSB) report, conducted by Dr Adam Petersen suggests the answers are far more nuanced than the headlines imply. This week on The Lisa Burke Show, I was joined by Dr Adam Petersen, Professor of Management Practice at LSB and host of RTL Today Radio's Office Hours, to discuss the findings of the Generational Attitudes Study (released 26 January 2026) a Luxembourg-focused survey examining values, work preferences, and career expectations across generations. Adam started this research because organisations are increasingly asking for training on managing generations, yet much of what circulates online is based on stereotypes rather than evidence. What the data shows, and what it doesn't The study analysed 326 Luxembourg-based respondents, largely drawn from business school students, alumni and professionals connected to LSB; a group broadly aligned with the private-sector talent many employers seek to attract. One of the most persistent workplace assumptions is that younger generations are less loyal and more prone to job-hopping. The data does show that younger respondents expect shorter tenure in early career roles, but Adam cautions against interpreting this as weaker commitment. Instead, he points to changed incentives. Earlier generations often benefited from defined-benefit pension schemes and long-term security. Today, salary progression and housing affordability pressures mean moving jobs can be a rational financial strategy rather than a sign of disengagement. Purpose vs pay: the stereotype flips Another widely held belief is that Gen Z and Millennials prioritise purpose over salary. The LSB data challenges this narrative. When respondents were asked to rank company priorities such as profit, people and planet, and choose between higher pay or working for a socially engaged organisation, younger cohorts were more likely to prioritise salary, while older respondents showed slightly greater emphasis on societal contribution. In a high-cost country like Luxembourg, Adam suggests this reflects economic reality rather than generational values: younger workers are often focused on achieving financial independence before they can afford to prioritise anything else. Hybrid work: not a generational divide Hybrid working is often framed as a generational battleground. Yet the report finds no clear evidence that younger generations want to work from home more than older ones. Overall, respondents across generations favour hybrid models, with preferences shaped more by role and seniority than age. Notably, Generation Z showed the highest preference for online meetings, but the lowest likelihood of reporting higher productivity when working from home. One of the most revealing questions asked who should decide which days employees come into the office: the manager or the employee. Older generations leaned more towards managerial decision-making, but Adam's conclusion was pragmatic rather than ideological: “You cannot manage organisations using simple generational rules. You have to get to know your team.” Bias, leadership and career stages The report also uncovered subtle age-related biases. Respondents tended to prefer peers from their own generation, favoured older managers, and preferred to manage younger colleagues, suggesting an ingrained association between age, authority and competence. Adam warned that these assumptions can quietly influence promotion decisions and performance evaluations, reinforcing the need for data-driven people processes rather than intuition or stereotype. The bigger takeaway Perhaps the most important conclusion from the study is this: generational labels are weak predictors of workplace attitudes. Career stage, organisational culture, and incentive structures matter far more. For leaders, HR teams and policymakers, the message is clear. If we want better engagement, retention and performance, the answer isn't learning how to ‘handle Gen Z' but to design systems that recognise how people's priorities evolve across a working life. Links Generational Attitudes Study (LSB Voices): https://luxsb.lu/lsb-voices/ Office Hours with Adam Petersen (RTL Play): https://play.rtl.lu/shows/en/office-hours/episodes Adam Petersen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-petersen/

January 23, 2026Today's Reading: Introit for The Transfiguration of Our Lord - Psalm 84:1-2a, 4, 10-11; antiphon: Psalm 77:18bDaily Lectionary: Joel 2:18-32; Romans 11:25-12:13“How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord of hosts!” (Psalm 84:1)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.When Peter saw the Lord Jesus transfigured on the mountain with Moses and Elijah standing beside him, he offered to build three tents (Mark 9:5). Perhaps this was a purely practical response, to provide some shelter for an extended visit. Perhaps, though, perceiving the glory of God shining in the face of Jesus and the appearance of the Law and the Prophets, Peter was transported back to the earliest days of the people of Israel, when the glory of the Lord dwelt in a tent, or the Tabernacle. The Tabernacle was a lovely dwelling. God Himself had designed it and had chosen the artisans to build it. It was made with the finest materials and craftsmanship to reflect Him whom it housed. Further, its design was oriented around its purpose, not only as a dwelling place for God, but also as the place where God dwelt for the forgiveness of His people. The Tabernacle was the place of sacrifice.King David (who did not appear at the Transfiguration) was not happy that God dwelt in a tent when he dwelt in a lovely house of cedar (2 Samuel 7:2). David wanted to build a permanent house for God, but God objected—He preferred to dwell in His tent. But God relented, and David's son built the house David longed for. The Temple was a lovely dwelling place, perhaps even exceeding the luxury of the Tabernacle. But it, too, was lovely because it was a place of sacrifice and forgiveness.In the course of history, this lovely Temple was destroyed, rebuilt, expanded, and destroyed again. One problem with a Temple built with hands is that it does not go with the people, as the Tabernacle had. A further problem is that the Lord of heaven and earth does not live in temples made by man (Acts 17:24). Neither the Temple nor the Tabernacle before it could contain the glory of God, nor could the tents Peter offered to build.Instead, God has pitched His tent, so to speak, in human flesh. “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us,” writes St. John (John 1:14). There, in the flesh of Jesus, all the fullness of the Deity dwells bodily (Colossians 2:9). It is a lovely dwelling place, not for gold or cedar or beautiful garments, but because Jesus is the place where God is present for the forgiveness of sins. The flesh of Jesus is the new Temple, the new Tabernacle, the dwelling place of the Lord of hosts. And how lovely it is!In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.To Your temple, Lord, I come, For it is my worship home. This earth has no better place, Here I see my Savior's face. (LSB 981:1)Author: Rev. Jacob Ehrhard, pastor of St. John's Lutheran Church and School in Chicago, IL.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

January 22, 2026Today's Reading: Catechism: Second CommandmentDaily Lectionary: Joel 2:1-17; Romans 11:1-24“To confuse the devil, I say, we should always have this holy name in our mouth, so that the devil may not be able to injure us as he wishes.” (Large Catechism I 72)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Have you ever considered that the first person in the Bible to invoke the name of God was the devil? “Did God really say…?” (Genesis 3:1). It's not God's peculiar name, the name He reveals to Moses from the burning bush, but the devil has God's name in his mouth nonetheless. But He uses God's name not for prayer or praise or thanksgiving to the one who created him and the creation around him. He uses it to confuse the issue, to cause injury. Out of envy, he twists God's Word ever so much and thereby profanes His name. Questioning God in such a way makes Him a liar and drags His name through the mud.The proper response to the devil's misuse of God's name would be a proper use of God's name. How is God's name properly used? “We should…call upon it in every trouble…” (Small Catechism, Explanation to the Second Commandment). Eve and Adam were certainly in trouble at that moment. Rather than engage the devil in a debate built on a false invocation of God's name, they should have immediately turned to prayer. Furthermore, God's name is used properly when it is used to apply right teaching (Large Catechism I 64). When the devil says, “Did God really say…?” the proper response according to the Second Commandment is, “Thus says the Lord.” When you have the words of Holy Scripture in your mouth (for there is where you find what the Lord says), you have the holy name of God in your mouth. This confuses the devil because he is used to people simply taking him at his word. But his word does not support the truth. His word is not oriented towards the good. His word is not a living, active, creative word. His words are empty. The devil wants to injure us with his word, and we still bear the wounds of his first injury in the sin that has been passed down to us. But God's Word heals, and whoever calls upon His name will be saved.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.How sweet the name of Jesus sounds In a believer's ear! It soothes our sorrows, heals our wounds, And drives away our fear. (LSB 524:1)Author: Rev. Jacob Ehrhard, pastor of St. John's Lutheran Church and School in Chicago, IL.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

Nelver - Proud Eagle Radio Show #608 @ 14 YEARS ONLINE [Pirate Station Online] (21-01-2026) ‼️ This episode to the "Proud Eagle Radio Show" is dedicated to birthday (14 Years Old) of the project! ✅ Subscribe to Telegram channel: https://t.me/nelvermusic All episodes: https://band.link/proudeagle YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/tdToMUU9jQU Tracklist: 01. JJL - Action 02. Sub Focus & Grimes - Entwined 03. ICONS & Bass Banditz & Mazin Amadi - Strangest Secret 04. Dub Elements - Balance 05. ICONS & Tyler Garrett - Big Time 06. Venjent - Ancient Techniques 07. Hackmorizon - Hold Me In The Dark 08. Fade Black - Iced Out 09. WAVHART - Conqueror 10. T & Sugah & Justin Hawkes - Bebe 11. NOGE - Screech [No Joke] (feat. Madrush MC) 12. Screamarts - Cultus 13. Minor Forms - Used To It 14. Optimus & Freddy B - Break This 15. Ostere - Sable 16. TER3NCE - Irresolute 17. L-Side - No Stress 18. Waeys - Dredge 19. Direct Assault - Ray Gun 20. Re:growth & Dub Ten - SPV 21. Teej - Chagrin (Resslek Remix) 22. L-Side - Bad That 23. Telm & Wilson - Droplet 24. XOHNE - Say Nothin 25. Sub Filla & Density - Haunted 26. XOHNE & Hedara - Fade Away 27. Typeсell - Dawn 28. Scurrow - Kicking You Out 29. T>I - Mode 30. Gifta - Any Which Way 31. Emplicit - Coda 32. So-Low - Good For Each Other 33. Low:r - Hedonism 34. MAG - Velvet Flow 35. Nelver - Sakura 36. Soulful Nature - Slow Burner 37. Bluefootjai - Mandala Orbit 38. Oliver Ferrer - Amen Time 39. Nelver - Dayfall 40. Vectasonic - Silence 41. BCee - Seal The Deal 42. Nelver & Ian Urbina - Ocean of Rain 43. Bilateral Signals - Everything 44. Nelver - Free Fantasy 45. Mr Joseph - All The Way 46. Melinki & Low:r - Inta 47. Scurrow - Hypocrit 48. Senchai - Starlight 49. Liquefaction - Memories 50. Nelver - City Lights 51. LSB - 175 52. Tokyo Prose - Brilliant Corners (Anile Remix) 53. Qumulus - Breathless (feat. Mark Menzies) 54. Arcatype - Snow Days 55. Nelver & Radicall - Hundred Lives 56. Nelver - Trying 57. Forum - Sonar 58. Nelver - Doesn't Take 59. A K A - Departing 60. Nelver - White Clouds Weekly updated Playlist "Proud Eagle" on Spotify: https://bit.ly/4ncuv3g Follow Nelver: https://www.instagram.com/nelvermusic/ https://vk.com/nelver https://spoti.fi/2ThGKDT https://soundcloud.com/nelver https://www.facebook.com/nelverdnb/ https://www.mixcloud.com/Nelver/ https://twitter.com/Nelvermusic #nelvermusic #drumandbass #newmusic #electronicmusic #dnbculture #vibes #mood #exclusive #trending #viral #proudeagle

January 21, 2026Today's Reading: Ephesians 5:22-33 or Romans 12:6-16Daily Lectionary: Joel 1:1-20; Romans 10:1-21“Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.” (Romans 12:9)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Love does not exist apart from those who love and those things they love. Love is intentional; that is, it is always aimed at something. Love finds delight in that which is beloved and is drawn to it. Love is not simply an emotion; love motivates action.It's possible to do things that look loving, but with the wrong intentions. So St. Paul exhorts us, “Let love be genuine.” More literally, St. Paul writes that love should not be hypocritical. Typically, people think of hypocrites as people who believe the right things but do the wrong things. Think of the regular charges of hypocrisy that the secular world makes against Christians: “You believe in Jesus, but you don't help the poor!” Hypocrite!A hypokritos in Greek culture was a play-actor who covered his face to play his part. This means that a hypocrite is someone who makes a public display of something he is not. Someone who acts the part, but is something different under the mask. It's the opposite of what the secular world calls hypocrisy.The world is filled with hypocritical love. People do loving acts to hide their true selves. They do things that appear loving, but their intentions are misdirected. So St. Paul clarifies his exhortation: “Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.” A hypocritical love behaves well but holds fast to evil and abhors what is good. Genuine love is oriented to that which is good.St. Paul then lists some indicators of genuine love: brotherly affection, showing honor, fervor of spirit, service to the Lord, joy in hope, patience in tribulation, constant prayer, and, yes, contributing to the needs of the saints and hospitality (Romans 12:10-13). St. Paul's exhortation to genuine love, then, is not that you should do these things, but that you should be the kind of person who does these things. How can you be this kind of person? “For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned” (Romans 12:3). Genuine love begins with the grace of God and a generous measure of faith. Genuine love does not mask cruel intentions, but under the mask of good works is the pure love of God alone.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)Author: Rev. Jacob Ehrhard, pastor of St. John's Lutheran Church and School in Chicago, IL.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

January 20, 2026Today's Reading: Exodus 33:12-23 or Amos 9:11-15Daily Lectionary: Ezekiel 47:1-14, 21-23; Romans 9:19-33“Moses said, ‘Please show me your glory.'” (Exodus 33:18)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Moses has a request for the Lord. “Please show me your glory.” It is an odd request, considering that Moses had already seen the Lord's glory. In the burning bush, Moses saw the Lord's glory. In the Exodus, the Lord's glory went before them and behind them in fire and cloud. It enveloped the mountain. It descended on the tent of meeting when Moses spoke to the Lord as a friend. What more is there to see?The Lord's face. When Moses saw the burning bush, he had to hide his face for fear (Exodus 3:6). Now he grows bolder. “Please show me your glory.” “Please show me your face.” The Lord responds, “I will make all my goodness pass before you and will proclaim before you my name ‘The Lord.' And I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will show mercy on whom I will show mercy. But, you cannot see my face, for man shall not see me and live” (Exodus 33:19-20). God's holy face is a death sentence for sinful man. Even the great prophet Moses could not endure the judgment of that revelation. If the Lord were to emerge from the fire or the cloud, it would not be a gracious face shining upon you but a stern countenance darkened by anger.Yet, the Lord will be gracious. He will show mercy. But not by stepping out of the fire or the cloud to show His face. Not at this moment. But as a promise of things to come, the Lord offers a glimpse. He hides Moses in the cleft of the rock and shows him His back. Even this compromise changes Moses, though. His own face begins to shine with the reflected radiance of God's glory, with a brilliance such that he has to wear a veil. At the end of Moses' story, the book of Deuteronomy says, “And there has not arisen a prophet since in Israel like Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face” (Deuteronomy 34:10). This is an ironic summary of Moses' ministry, considering how the Lord explicitly denied him the sight of His face. But it's not the end of the Moses story. Moses again makes an appearance. “And [Jesus] was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became white as light. And behold, there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him” (Matthew 17:2-3). The face of Jesus masks the darkened countenance of God and presents the gracious face of God. This gracious face of God also shines upon you in the ministry of the Church. Having put on a face of flesh and blood, the Lord says to you, “Look on my face and live.”In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.The Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you. (Benediction, LSB p. 166)Author: Rev. Jacob Ehrhard, pastor of St. John's Lutheran Church and School in Chicago, IL.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

January 19, 2026Today's Reading: John 2:1-11Daily Lectionary: Ezekiel 44:1-16, 23-29; Romans 9:1-18“On the third day there was a wedding at Cana in Galilee” (John 2:1a)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.“On the third day there was a wedding at Cana in Galilee…” Starting John's Gospel at 2:1 needs a little more context. Third day of what? We need to go back a chapter.Three days before the wedding, Jesus called Philip and Nathanael. “The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, ‘Follow me.'” (John 1:43). Wait, the next day after what? Back again.Jesus calls more disciples (Andrew and Simon Peter), and John (the baptizing one) makes a declaration. “The next day again John was standing with two of his disciples, and he looked at Jesus as he walked by and said, ‘Behold, the Lamb of God!'” (John 1:35-36). Oh, another next day. Gotta read back further.“The next day he (John—the baptizing one) saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” Another next day!“And this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, ‘Who are you?'” (John 1:19). If you go back any further than this, you don't get a day, you just get the beginning. “In the beginning was the Word…” (John 1:1).John begins his Gospel with a week. The first week in the Bible was a week of creation (Genesis 1:2-2:3). But that first week was ruined by the advent of sin in the world. Now the New Testament begins a new week of new creation, starting with the Baptism of the Lamb of God Who takes away the sin of the world. The first week of the Bible ended with a wedding. God brought Eve to Adam and instituted holy matrimony. The New Testament also ends its first week with a wedding at Cana. The bride and groom of that wedding aren't important; it's the presence of Jesus that's important. His first sign, the water into wine, creates faith in His disciples.But the last day of this week is also introduced with an unmistakably Easter phrase: “on the third day…” You just want to finish with, “He rose again from the dead.” But that's really the point. The resurrection of Jesus on the third day is a recapitulation of all creation and the beginning of the eternal wedding feast of the Lamb in His kingdom, which has no end.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Gather us together, we pray, from the ends of the earth to celebrate with all the faithful the marriage feast of the Lamb in His kingdom, which has no end. Amen. (Prayer of Thanksgiving, LSB p. 161)Author: Rev. Jacob Ehrhard, pastor of St. John's Lutheran Church and School in Chicago, IL.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

January 16, 2026Today's Reading: Romans 7:1-20Daily Lectionary: Ezekiel 38:1-23; Romans 7:1-20“For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me.” (Romans 7:18-20)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.I know that one candy bar is enough, but I'm going to eat three anyway. I know I shouldn't flame the Social Media Influencer of the Moment on TikTok, but I'm going to do it anyway. I know I shouldn't text my friend three pews behind me during church, but I'm going to do it anyway. The examples are endless.And the endless examples put the lie to the idea that one can keep God's Law as He wishes it to be kept—perfectly. It simply can't be done, no matter how hard you try, because even your understanding of “good works” is broken because of the sin that ravages you, and the constant lies of Satan in your ears.This is what St. Paul is trying to beat into our thick Lutheran skulls. That no amount of trying to do good is going to benefit you. And it certainly isn't going to save you! Even when you want to do the right thing, to do what is pleasing to God, it is so difficult because of the sin that permeates you and the evil that is close by all around you.And you can only see the truth of this when you use the eyes of faith. Eyes of faith, given to you in your Baptism when you were crucified, died, buried, and resurrected with Christ. Eyes of faith, strengthened in the read and proclaimed Gospel. Eyes of faith, strengthened and sustained in the receiving of Christ's true Body and Blood in the Sacrament, given for your forgiveness. Only by stepping back from your own flailing attempts to do “good,” and instead receiving what your Lord Christ gives freely as Gift can you see the truth. That the only good you do is done by Christ in you. He equips you to love your neighbor. He equips you to be an example to those around you. He does all things to His glory and for your salvation.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Let us ever walk with Jesus, Follow His example pure, Through a world that would deceive us And to sin our spirits lure. Onward in His footsteps treading, Pilgrims here, our home above, Full of faith and hope and love, Let us do the Father's bidding. Faithful Lord, with me abide; I shall follow where You guide. (LSB 685:1)Author: Rev. Duane Bamsch, pastor of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Wichita Falls, TX.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

January 15, 2026Today's Reading: Catechism: First CommandmentDaily Lectionary: Ezekiel 37:15-28; Romans 6:1-23“You shall have no other gods. What does this mean? We should fear, love, and trust in God above all things.” (The Small Catechism, The First Commandment)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.One of my favorite exercises in Confirmation is having the confirmands noodle on the question of how many commandments you can break at one time with one sin. It is always interesting to see how they think through the process because we so often think we can reduce that number to one, but we have to sin on a Sunday to break the Third Commandment!The point of the exercise is to make it clear that the Commandments are so intertwined that it doesn't matter how many Commandments you break; breaking any single one of them is a damnable offense. And the reason you break Commandments Two through Ten is because you've already thrown the First into the trash.Why do you despise God's Word and His preaching? Because you decided you didn't want to hear from God that day. Why did you want to throat punch someone? Because you know better than God that he really deserves it! Why did you ignore Mom's request to take out the trash? Because you know better how your time should be spent, not her.All of these sins have one thing in common: you are the one who knows best, not God your Father. You decided that you know better than God how to live your life. You have made yourself God, then. It may not seem like it, but that is the truth of the matter. Any time you decide that you know better than Almighty God how to live your life, you have replaced Him as God.The blessing in all of this is that once you realize how you try to game the system, you can dial back the idolatry of self (which is what this behavior actually is) and see how you can react positively to God's Word and commands. You can take comfort in the forgiveness given you in Christ, and resting in that peace, you can fear, love, and trust in God above all things.No, you never will be able to keep the Commandments properly. But by striving in faith to love and trust in God as He desires to be loved, by following the examples of faithful Christians around you, and by gladly receiving the Gifts God freely gives, you begin to learn how you can live faithfully: with a repentant heart and trusting that His forgiveness is yours, because He loves you more than you will ever know.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.I know my faith is founded On Jesus Christ, my God and Lord; And this my faith confessing, Unmoved I stand on His sure Word. Our reason cannot fathom The truth of God profound; Who trusts in human wisdom Relies on shifting ground. God's Word is all sufficient, It makes divinely sure; And trusting in its wisdom, My faith shall rest secure. (LSB 587:1)Author: Rev. Duane Bamsch, pastor of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Wichita Falls, TX.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

January 14, 2026Today's Reading: Ezekiel 36:33-37:14Daily Lectionary: Ezekiel 36:33-37:14; Romans 5:1-21“Then he said to me, ‘Prophesy to the breath; prophesy, son of man, and say to the breath, Thus says the Lord GOD: Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe on these slain, that they may live.' So I prophesied as he commanded me, and the breath came into them, and they lived and stood on their feet, an exceedingly great army.” (Ezekiel 37:9–10)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.One of the most memorable and strangest passages in Holy Scripture is the Valley of Dry Bones. It is a gruesome and fascinating text: dried human bones scattered across a barren valley reassemble into skeletons and then fully formed bodies at a word from the prophet.But then, after the rattling of bones reassembling, it is quiet once again. A valley now scattered with still, silent bodies. It isn't until Almighty God commands Ezekiel to speak breath into them that they live, breathe, and stand on their own feet. How weird is that? It's really weird until you realize that God speaking breath and life into darkness and death is pretty much how it always works. “Let there be…” and there is. “Lazarus, come out!” and he does. Ezekiel is given to see a future and a promise for God's people who are lost in exile in a foreign land, and he speaks to them in comfort and proclamation. “This is not the end of your life; God has a plan and a future for his faithful children.” It may seem like you are at wits' end, lost in a maze, or a wilderness, or a dark place with seemingly no way out and no future, but God has other things in mind for you. He has a promise and a future: life everlasting, and he gives it to you through the power of the breath, His Holy Spirit.Jesus breathes that Spirit on His disciples on Easter evening. That Spirit breathes on the assembled hearers at Pentecost, and that Spirit breathes new life and faith into you at your Baptism. The life, forgiveness, and salvation won for you in Christ Jesus's death and resurrection are given to you while you are still lost and dead in sin, given completely by God's grace and favor for you.When you feel like you have no way out, or that you are completely lost, hear the Word of the Lord and let His breath refresh you and revive you.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.O Holy Spirit, enter in, And in our hearts Your work begin, Your dwelling place now make us. Sun of the soul, O Light divine, Around and in us brightly shine, To joy and gladness wake us That we may be Truly living, To You giving Prayer unceasing And in love be still increasing. (LSB 913:1)Author: Rev. Duane Bamsch, pastor of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Wichita Falls, TX.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

January 12, 2026Today's Reading: Joshua 3:1-3, 7-8, 13-17 or Isaiah 42:1-7Daily Lectionary: Ezekiel 34:1-24; Romans 3:19-31“I am the LORD; I have called you in righteousness; I will take you by the hand and keep you; I will give you as a covenant for the people, a light for the nations, to open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness.” (Isaiah 42:6–7)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Too often, we see the Old Testament—and especially the words of the prophets—as bad news. As nothing but proclamations of “Woe!” and “Misery!” and “Punishment!” upon the people. But that's not all it says. Sure, there are those passages, but sweet words of promise are also scattered throughout the Old Testament, and this is a prime example of the Gospel.This text is the first of the “Servant Songs” Isaiah proclaims to the people of Israel. The first of the clarifications of the coming Messiah and his mission among God's people. What he will and will not do in order to restore creation to perfection in the age to come.We can't read these words and not see Jesus, though, can we? We've spent our whole lives hearing these words (or quotations of them from Sts. Matthew and Luke) and knowing that Jesus was the fulfillment of these promises. But to the Israelites, these were new ideas. These were promises that they didn't really understand, because they were unsure of their future, and for good reason.Almighty God proclaims through Isaiah that suffering is coming to his people (there's the misery part!). They have sinned and continue to sin by flouting God's commands and worshiping idols. But even this will be forgiven them when they hear the One God sends to them and turn to him in repentance.God does not want to destroy his people. He wants to restore, heal, and lift them up. He wants to gather them together into the place he's set aside for them, and that will happen through the work of the One to come, the One who will open eyes and free prisoners.And He will do that with His words and His hands, and ultimately in the giving of His life for all people. The ultimate release from prison is resurrection and life everlasting. Death is the darkest dungeon, and Jesus has destroyed even that.Isaiah proclaims that this is what is in store for God's faithful people. Isaiah proclaims to you the same thing. Jesus has come to break God's people out of bondage and make them a home in his presence for eternity. This is your future, with Him, forever.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Hail to the Lord's anointed, Great David's greater Son! Hail, in the time appointed, His reign on earth begun! He comes to break oppression, To set the captive free, To take away transgression And rule in equity. (LSB 398:1)Author: Rev. Duane Bamsch, pastor of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Wichita Falls, TX.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the one-hundredth-and-twenty-third episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.' Hosted by MAJ Amy Beatty, the Task Force Executive Officer Observer-Coach-Trainer from Task Force Sustainment (Division Sustainment Support Battalion / Light Support Battalion) on behalf of the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today's guest is LTC Ryan Wilson, the Battalion Commander for the 307th Light Support Battalion, 1st Mobile Brigade Combat Team (MBCT), 82nd Airborne Division.*   The 307th Light Support Battalion, formerly the 307th Brigade Support Battalion, is the sustainment backbone of the 1st Mobile Brigade Combat Team (MBCT), 82nd Airborne Division. Known by its Hollywood call sign “Blackdevil” and guided by the motto “Ready to Support,” the 307th traces its lineage to World War II, where it supported airborne operations in the European Theater before continuing service through the Cold War, the Global War on Terror, and into today's LSCO-focused force. As a Light Support Battalion, the 307th has evolved from traditional rear-area logistics into a highly mobile, dispersed, and survivable sustainment formation—capable of supporting forced entry, austere operations, and prolonged combat while operating under constant enemy observation.   This episode examines tactical sustainment and logistics in LSCO, focusing on how Brigade Support Battalions must modernize to survive, enable maneuver, and remain relevant on a transparent, multi-domain battlefield. The discussion highlights evolving base cluster design as a survivability and command-and-control problem, not just a logistical one. Rather than mirroring legacy company-based layouts, effective units organize sustainment nodes around capability, unity of command, and protection, deliberately reducing signatures while preserving functionality. The episode also addresses the persistent friction between moving versus maneuvering logistics, emphasizing that sustainment formations are designed to distribute bulk commodities, not fight their way forward without protection. Best practices include integrating FSCs early into planning, rehearsing transitions from bulk to retail distribution, and treating sustainment as a shared responsibility between maneuver and support units rather than a transactional service.    The conversation further explores multi-domain and modernization challenges shaping the sustainment fight, including EMS vulnerability, convoy survivability, and the difficulty of maintaining synchronization during frequent displacement. Leaders discuss how degraded communications, leadership attrition, and mass casualties compound sustainment friction, requiring disciplined initiative and empowered NCO leadership at echelon. Repeated emphasis is placed on concealment, noise and light discipline, timeliness, and rehearsed staff processes as decisive factors that protect sustainment combat power. The episode underscores that logistics in LSCO is not a rear-area function but a contested fight where culture, repetition, and leader-driven standards determine success. Ultimately, the takeaway is clear: units that modernize sustainment through protection, integration, and disciplined execution are better positioned to sustain the fight and enable decisive maneuver during the opening and sustaining battles of LSCO.    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.   *For the purposes of this podcast, the titles LSB and BSB are interchangeable just as DSSB and CSSB.