Beloved do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. (1 Pet. 4:12).
“Beloved” is a strong word. It includes love, affection, protection, and compassion all rolled into one word. Peter wrote to those who were beloved by God, particularly because so many were enduring suffering on account of the faith and virtuous life they lived in Christ.
Read MorePaul’s letter to the Corinthians explains the deep truths of love for Christians. It ends with a familiar verse: Faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love. (1 Cor. 13:13). Have you ever wondered why he says love is the greatest? 1 Corinthians 13 is a profound chapter dedicated entirely to explaining the way of love. In it, Paul depicts, defines, and describes love. Specifically, according to God’s perspective, both what it is and what it is not.
Read MoreThe Walz Administration has recently taken two actions which appear to show a disregard both for our State and Federal Constitution as well as the right and duty of parents to direct the education of their children. This is concerning to us.
Read MoreAnd this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?” He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, “I am not the Christ.” (John 1:19-20) The Jews asked John the Baptist a simple question: “Who are you?” It’s a common question. Most of us have been asked it. How do you typically answer? With your name? Your title or position? Your place in your family? John was asked because of what he was doing and what he was saying.
Read MoreLutheran schools are an integral part of many LCMS congregations. In fact, early in our history, any congregation wishing to join the LCMS was required to operate a Christian day school. And why were schools deemed so essential?
Read MoreWorship forms continue to be a talking point within our Lutheran circles. At the heart of those discussions are often disagreements about who is right and who is wrong, which form is best, what Divine Setting is most pure, or what instrument is most proper. Unfortunately, those considerations can get hijacked by intense emotions and we lose the ability to speak in ways that the other can hear or loses sight of what and Who is at the heart of our worship.
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