Reflections

January 2, 2026Today's Reading: Galatians 4:1-7Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 62:1-12; Luke 2:1-20“But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.” (Galatians 4:4-5)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.The word Paul uses for time here is "chronos," meaning clock time. The ticking of seconds. The seconds turned to minutes. The minutes adding to hours. The passing of days and the unfolding of history. And all of it, Paul says, was being directed by God toward one great moment: "When the fullness of time had come, God sent forth His Son." God stepped into the very timeline He created and directed it to its “fullness.” Born of a woman. Born under the Law. Why? So that slaves would become sons! So that orphans might be adopted. We were slaves to sin, chained to whatever empty promises caught our fancy: A life gratified by performance and defined by failure or pride. A life satiated by pleasure and defined by the excess or the lack. All of it occupying our “chronos” time until we slept in the dust of death and inherited the eternal hopelessness of Hell. But Christ Jesus, the true Son, entered that time to bring upon us the eternal status of beloved children of God. So when you look in the mirror, what do you see? A disappointment? A success story? Neither lie defines you nor gets the last word. The truth is far deeper: You are a baptized child of God the Father and a sibling of Christ Jesus; destined for the eternal inheritance, the resurrection of our bodies unto eternal glory and righteousness. That is who you are. Slaves to sin and the law cling to whatever the world says gives them value—titles, looks, surgical adjustments, opinions, success. But not you. You are no longer a slave. You are a son. And if a son, then an heir. Loved, redeemed, secure in the freedom to look at God and say, “This is my Father, and I am His beloved.”In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Heavenly Father, in the fullness of time, You sent forth Your Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, to redeem us and make us Your children. Grant that we who have received adoption through Baptism may live in the fullness that comes from Your eternal grace, may walk in the freedom of Your love and worship You as the only True God with Jesus Christ, our Lord, and the Holy Spirit; the Three in One and the One in the Three. Amen.Author: Rev. Matthew Synnott, associate pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Peoria, Illinois.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Work through the first ten chapters of Matthew and learn more about who Jesus is. As you move through this study, you’ll ponder the theological, practical, and historical considerations of the text. With ample room for personal notes, this study will have you feeling confident in your understanding of Matthew’s Gospel. Matthew 1:1-11:1 of the new Concordia Commentary Bible Study Series is available now.

January 1, 2026Today's Reading: Luke 2:21Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 61:1-11; Luke 1:57-80“And at the end of eight days, when he was circumcised, he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.” (Luke 2:21)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.There is something remarkable and yet so subtle in the Christmas story: the Holy Child of Bethlehem is not called Jesus until the eighth day when He is circumcised. Before verse 21, He is referred to as the baby, the child, Christ, and Lord, all glorious titles, but the personal, saving name of Jesus is bestowed upon Him in the covenant of circumcision. This is not merely a name His parents have placed upon Him from their own whims. It is the Name given by the Father in Heaven. “You shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21). Jesus means “YHWH saves.” This is God’s covenant Name for His Son. And Jesus lived by it to completion. He is what His Name declares: YHWH saves. From His circumcision to His crucifixion, from that first cut of blood to the New Creation of His resurrection, Jesus fulfills the meaning of His Name for you and me. And now, you who are baptized, you are in His Name. You have been baptized into the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19). You are clothed in Christ. His Name is on you even as you now dwell in His Name. When the Lord sees you, He does not remember your sin or your shame, but sees the beloved child now dwelling safely in the shelter of the Name of Jesus, “YHWH Saves!” So call upon His Name. Live under His Name. And rejoice that, as Acts 4:12 says, “there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” The Name was given, the flesh was cut, the covenant fulfilled. Your name was given, the Water and the Word applied, and now the salvation declared in the Holy Name of Jesus is yours.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Lord God, You made Your beloved Son, our Savior, subject to the Law and caused Him to shed His blood on our behalf. Grant us the true circumcision of the Spirit that our hearts may be made pure from all sins; through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.Author: Rev. Matthew Synnott, associate pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Peoria, Illinois.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Work through the first ten chapters of Matthew and learn more about who Jesus is. As you move through this study, you’ll ponder the theological, practical, and historical considerations of the text. With ample room for personal notes, this study will have you feeling confident in your understanding of Matthew’s Gospel. Matthew 1:1-11:1 of the new Concordia Commentary Bible Study Series is available now.

December 31, 2025Today's Reading: Luke 12:35-40Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 60:1-22; Luke 1:39-56“Blessed are those servants whom the master finds awake when he comes…You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” (Luke 12:37, 40)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Awake and ready! These are the words our Lord Jesus uses to describe the mission of His disciples, you and I included. In other words, Christ Jesus has served us with His everlasting love and mercy given on the cross, and He has summoned us to Christian vigilance. How different it is in the world on this day they call “New Year's Eve.” The past is drowned in licentiousness and over-indulgence in libations, the future is ushered in with revelry, and the next day brings the same old-same old. The same sinner led astray by the same sins and the same empty promises. Christian vigilance is different, though; it is a sanctified sobriety! When we hear the word “sober,” it’s easy to think it means somber, overly serious, or no fun. But go back to those words of our Lord, “Awake and ready.” To be awake means your eyes are open; open to the truth of the Gospel, open to the truth of what is pleasing in the sight of the Lord, and open to the joy of eternity with Christ. You are not lulled with the sleep of sin or the numbing pleasures of a passing era because your eyes are on the splendid promise of Christ Jesus. To be ready means that your eyes are not only opened, but you are dressed in your baptismal identity as servants of righteousness. Your belt tightened, your lamp of faith lit, and your hands ready to serve Him in the places He has given you responsibility. Jesus is not calling us to earn our salvation in watchfulness, but to live as those who by grace, belong to Jesus the master, and to live as those who know the joy that is coming. For when the Master returns, it is He who will dress Himself in action and serve us. This passage is not just a warning; it is a joyful promise of what is to come. He will serve us with resurrected bodies. He will serve us by gathering us unto His presence forever. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.“Wake, awake, for night is flying,” The watchmen on the heights are crying; “Awake, Jerusalem, arise!” Midnight hears the welcome voices And at the thrilling cry rejoices; “Oh, where are ye, ye virgins wise?” The Bridegroom comes, awake! Your lamps with gladness take! Alleluia! With bridal care Yourselves prepare To meet the Bridegroom, who is near.” (LSB 516:1)Author: Rev. Matthew Synnott, associate pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Peoria, Illinois.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Work through the first ten chapters of Matthew and learn more about who Jesus is. As you move through this study, you’ll ponder the theological, practical, and historical considerations of the text. With ample room for personal notes, this study will have you feeling confident in your understanding of Matthew’s Gospel. Matthew 1:1-11:1 of the new Concordia Commentary Bible Study Series is available now.

December 30, 2025Today's Reading: Isaiah 11:1-5 or 2 Samuel 7:1-16Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 58:1-59:3, 14-21; Luke 1:26-38“There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit. And the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him…” (Isaiah 11:1-2a)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Our lives and even this world (our newsfeeds, our headlines, our daily burdens) can so often feel like a dead stump. Hopeless. Lifeless. Good for nothing. Maybe your heart feels like that today; cut down & good for nothing. But God is not done with stumps. Hear the Word of the Lord: “There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit.” (Isaiah 11:1) From a line that looked like it had fallen prey to the lumberjack, the House and lineage of David, God promised a tender shoot. Not one more stump that reminds us of our sinful failure and faithlessness, but a shoot that would take root and grow into a glorious vine. Christ Jesus has taken what was dead, and by His miraculous conception in the blessed virgin and His glorious birth from her womb, the House of David is alive forevermore! And this Jesus declares, “I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me, and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit…” You are now a branch in the vine of David, and His mercy and forgiveness flow even into the places that you may have thought were dead and beyond repair. Baptized into Him, and fed with His Body and Blood flowing within you, let Him nourish you. He is the vine and the root that will never wither. He is the King who will never turn a blind eye to your need, whose Kingdom shall have no end. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.This flow’r, whose fragrance tender With sweetness fills the air, Dispels with glorious splendor The darkness everywhere. True man, yet very God. From sin and death He saves us And lightens every load. O Savior, child of Mary, Who felt our human woe; O Savior, King of glory, Who dost our weakness know: Bring us at length we pray To the bright courts of heaven, And to the endless day. (LSB 359:3-4)Author: Rev. Matthew Synnott, associate pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Peoria, Illinois.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Work through the first ten chapters of Matthew and learn more about who Jesus is. As you move through this study, you’ll ponder the theological, practical, and historical considerations of the text. With ample room for personal notes, this study will have you feeling confident in your understanding of Matthew’s Gospel. Matthew 1:1-11:1 of the new Concordia Commentary Bible Study Series is available now.

December 29, 2025Today's Reading: Luke 2:(22-32) 33-40Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 55:1-13; Luke 1:1-25“...for my eyes have seen your salvation that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples…” (Luke 2:30-31)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.It is now the fifth day of Christmas, and what is it that you see? Do your eyes gaze on a tree that was once brimming with anticipation, gifts, and loved ones? But now does it feel like an empty shell? Do you look at your house, dormitory, or apartment and see emptiness where there was once the hustle and bustle of family gatherings? Or perhaps you look at a countertop that is stacked with papers, a reminder of everything you failed to do before the rush of Christmas Eve/Day? Our dear brother, Simeon, by the Holy Spirit was promised “consolation.” His eyes, like many others, looked at a temple that was bereft of the glory of God; the LORD’s weighty and splendid presence no longer there. But all of it changed that day when the blessed Mother arrived at the temple with the Holy Child, Jesus. “That’s the One,” the Spirit of God affirmed in Simeon. And it is here that Simeon sings a crucial song about his eyes, “My eyes have seen your salvation that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples.” What is it that Simeon’s eyes see? A temple with no glory? No. A life that is too old or far gone? No. What is it that Simeon sees? He sees the reason that he can be set free in peace. He sees the very light that will lift the nations out of darkness and idolatry. He sees the glory of Israel. He sees SALVATION! What is it that Simeon beholds in faith? Jesus. And that is all he needs. It’s no wonder that after we have beheld and tasted of Christ, through His Body and Blood in, with, and under the bread and wine, we Lutherans sing with Simeon his song! For with eyes of faith, the light of Christ has cast away our sin with forgiveness, our death with Life. The glory of Jesus has crowned us, so that we may be changed from glory to glory (2 Corinthians 3:18). So then, it is now the fifth day of Christmas, and what is it that you see? Promises upon promises fulfilled in Christ, that is what you see.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Christ Jesus brought this gift to me, My faithful Savior, Whom You have made my eyes to see By Your favor. Now I know He is my life, My friend when I am dying. (LSB 938:2)Author: Rev. Matthew Synnott, associate pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Peoria, Illinois.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Work through the first ten chapters of Matthew and learn more about who Jesus is. As you move through this study, you’ll ponder the theological, practical, and historical considerations of the text. With ample room for personal notes, this study will have you feeling confident in your understanding of Matthew’s Gospel. Matthew 1:1-11:1 of the new Concordia Commentary Bible Study Series is available now.

December 28, 2025Today's Reading: Matthew 2:13-18Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 52:13-54:10; Matthew 2:13-23“Then was fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet Jeremiah: ‘A voice was heard in Ramah, weeping and loud lamentation, Rachel weeping for her children; she refused to be comforted for they are no more.’” (Matthew 2:17-18)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Christmas is war. That may sound jarring in our ears, but we cannot forget that truth. Yes, the incarnation of our Lord has raised up the sons of Adam out of the sinful curse of thorns and thistles, dust and ashes. Yes, the birth of our Lord proclaims that we now live in Anno Domini (A.D.), salvation is ours, and eternal glory with God is ours by Christ as a free gift. But Rachel, who was buried in Bethlehem, becomes the embodiment of every Mother in Bethlehem whose son was murdered by Herod. And she weeps, mourns, and wails because Christmas is war, and war has spilled upon the innocent. The birth of the Savior is the first blow against the gates of Hell. It is terror unto demons and those who have allowed themselves to be twisted in wickedness, like King Herod. Herod understood that his wicked act was not merely of the earthly sort. He heard the Magi, he sought the scribes, he listened to the prophecy; Herod sought to fight against God. And this was a fight He’d never win. Today we remember these innocents, who died in the place of Christ, but we do not only remember in bitter tears, but with quiet hope because eventually Christ would die for them. We remember the promise that “precious/costly in the sight of the LORD, are the death of His saints.” (Psalm 116:15) What was lost and stolen from them has already been restored by His innocent death and glorious resurrection. And He will restore fully at His final Advent. And on that day, we will stand in the fullness of God’s glory along with these blessed children, along with Rachel, and we will be comforted; our sorrow transformed by the radiant splendor of our God and King. Until then, Christmas remains a war, but a war that has been won by Christ. So do not grow weary; let the demons tremble, let the wicked repent and return to their gracious King Jesus, and let the redeemed stand tall in the splendor of the Gospel.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.All praise for infant martyrs, Whom Your mysterious love Called early from their warfare To share Your home above. O Rachel, cease your weeping; They rest from earthly cares! Lord, grant us crowns as brilliant And faith as sure as theirs. (LSB 517:9)Author: Rev. Matthew Synnott, associate pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Peoria, Illinois.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Work through the first ten chapters of Matthew and learn more about who Jesus is. As you move through this study, you’ll ponder the theological, practical, and historical considerations of the text. With ample room for personal notes, this study will have you feeling confident in your understanding of Matthew’s Gospel. Matthew 1:1-11:1 of the new Concordia Commentary Bible Study Series is available now.

December 27, 2025Today's Reading: John 21:20-25Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 51:17-52:12; Matthew 2:1-12“If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow me!” (John 21:22)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.It’s easy to make comparisons to others. The flesh wants to be on top, number one, the best at everything. You see it in children who cry and throw tantrums when they lose at something or feel slighted by another child. Adults are no different, only they throw tantrums in different ways.The disciples were not immune to the Old Adam, and the Gospels record their quest for greatness and penchant for comparisons amongst themselves. In Matthew (20:20-28) and Mark (10:35-45) we hear the story of James and John seeking a place by Jesus. Of course, the other ten disciples are “indignant at the two brothers.” Also, in Matthew (18:1-6) and Mark (9:33-36) are the accounts of the disciples debating the question, “who is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven?” It’s not just in sports, then, the question “Who is the GOAT (Greatest Of All Time)?” It happens in the Church, even amongst Jesus’ very own disciples.Despite Jesus’ teaching, old habits die hard, and the Old Adam never ceases to rear his ugly head. Even in the last section of John’s gospel, Peter is worrying about others, not himself. He’s interested in John’s future: “Lord, what about this man?” But it’s none of Peter’s business. John’s outcome will reside in the hidden will of God, as does the fate of everyone. For Peter, the instructions are clear: “follow me” says the Lord.We’re no different from the disciples in that we make comparisons that can easily give rise to wretched jealousy and anger over the neighbor. But in God’s Church, this has no place. Such sins require that daily repentance before Christ seeking forgiveness for all those times we exalted ourselves and forgot about our sin. All those times we compared ourselves with others in the Church, thought we were better, or despised those we judged to be ahead in pious works and the eyes of others—we’re called to repentance of such sins and to faith in God. We’re given a baptized life where those good works flow from faith excluding hubris and comparisons, jealousy and discontentment with ourselves before God.Our eyes need to be on Jesus, and we need to listen to His voice, “follow Me.” The neighbor is in God’s hands, whose days are numbered like ours. The measure of days God knows and thus we’re content knowing our lives are in the hands of a loving Creator Who has redeemed us by the blood of His Son calling us to bear our crosses and follow Him.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Almighty God, forgive us of our pride and by Thy Word bring us daily to repentance and faith trusting in You to bring us through the vale of tears into that life everlasting You have prepared for us by Your cross and blood. Amen. Author: Rev. Ryan Ogrodowicz, senior pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Brenham, TX.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Work through the first ten chapters of Matthew and learn more about who Jesus is. As you move through this study, you’ll ponder the theological, practical, and historical considerations of the text. With ample room for personal notes, this study will have you feeling confident in your understanding of Matthew’s Gospel. Matthew 1:1-11:1 of the new Concordia Commentary Bible Study Series is available now.

December 26, 2025Today's Reading: Matthew 23:34-39Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 49:22-26; 50:4-51:8, 12-16; Matthew 1:18-25“Truly, I say to you all these things will come upon this generation” (Matthew 23:36)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.This text speaks about Jerusalem’s rejection of Christ. Prophets and wise men will come from God only to suffer death, a pattern history reveals in the examples of Abel and Zechariah the son of Barachiah, the latter being “murdered between the sanctuary and the altar.” Nevertheless, vindication will come. God’s justice will prevail when “righteous blood” falls upon those rejecting the grace of God. In God’s court, the murderers and persecuting unbelievers have no Advocate. The verdict is death for those despising the only Mediator between heaven and earth.The target audience in Jesus’ teaching here plays a part in this prophecy when before Pilate they cry “His blood be on us and on our children!” (Matthew 24:25), a striking statement brimming with theological importance. Indeed, Jesus’ blood will atone for the entire world, even the ungodly. His justification for man fulfilled at the cross is universal, not partial and selective. Still, Jesus’ enemies boldly claim responsibility for His death. Killing the Messiah in raw defiance is blasphemy before the Lord of justice and mercy. “This generation” is Jesus’ designation of the wicked, the unbelievers, the enemies of God opposing prophet, disciple, and pastor because of their hatred of God. All things will come to pass according to the divine Word and “this generation” is no exception to God’s judgment.This is a sad narrative of Jesus’ lament for His children. After everything He did for His people, the result was rejection. Jesus’ words “you were not willing” place the onus square on the sinner, not God. Unbelief resides in the flesh of man to look at God’s promise to gather us as the hen gathers her brood under her wings and say “no.” Such rejection and the persecution of God’s people will continue until the Last Day. Baptized believers live with no delusion of grandeur that life will be easy for the Church. This text teaches us what’s in store for the Church of God as she makes her pilgrimage in this life fraught with difficulty and trial. Still, The Lord is merciful to gather us under His wing, to grant His people protection and peace; to confirm for us His promise of salvation at His glorious return when every knee shall bow and confess before the Lord of glory Who keeps his Word. Just as judgment comes to pass, so does Jesus’ promise to save.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Lord, grant your Church steadfast faith to endure persecution and find comfort and hope in Your steadfast love that endures for all generations. Amen.Author: Rev. Ryan Ogrodowicz, senior pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Brenham, TX.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Work through the first ten chapters of Matthew and learn more about who Jesus is. As you move through this study, you’ll ponder the theological, practical, and historical considerations of the text. With ample room for personal notes, this study will have you feeling confident in your understanding of Matthew’s Gospel. Matthew 1:1-11:1 of the new Concordia Commentary Bible Study Series is available now.

December 25, 2025Today's Reading: John 1:1-18Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 49:1-18; Matthew 1:1-17“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.The words “in the beginning” take us back to Genesis. We know the story: a perfect, pristine creation by God in six days comes crashing down under the curse of sin by one man’s trespass that “led to condemnation for all men” (Romans 5:18). The darkness of sin and man’s condemnation under the law is only overcome by divine Light.  The inspired writer John proclaims this Light, this redemption found in the Word made flesh Who dwelt among us. John’s description of Jesus is still worthy of faithful contemplation, for he speaks of Jesus’ divinity as the everlasting Word in the beginning through Whom all things were made. Whereas the other Gospels begin emphasizing the humanity of Jesus, John begins with His divinity. Christ wasn’t another prophet or rabbi, but the everlasting Word Incarnate, God having come to dwell among us not in a Temple or Tent, but in the flesh and blood person of Christ crucified and risen from the dead. We behold our Advocate with the Father in the Son Who testifies “I and the Father are One” (John 10:30) and “before Abraham was, I Am” (John 8:58). In the face of so many heresies decrying Jesus as God, this confession of Christ as Lord must go forth in that courageous conviction only God brings forth in His blessed children. There’s no other way to the Father than through the Son, Who is the “Way, the Truth, and the Life” (John 14:6) and calls sinners to repentance and faith in He Who still outshines a dark world.The children of God believe and confess this Word by faith, and John also clarifies for us that this is God’s work. Children of God aren’t made so by the will of the flesh but God. It’s His divine work to bring life from death. The dark, cold, stoney heart becomes one brimming with life at the good deposit entrusted to the baptized believer—faith in the Word made flesh. It’s this faith that seeks comfort and solace in the promises of God when it seems the darkness has won and thus any victory belongs to the “ruler of this world” (John 12:31). Feelings should fall to the wayside of Jesus’ promises. No, the darkness doesn’t win. The Word Incarnate has made sure of it. The darkness doesn’t overcome the Light Who shines now and for all eternity. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Into flesh is made the Word, alleluia! He, our refuge and our Lord, alleluia! On this day God gave us Christ, His Son, to save us; Christ, His Son, to save us (LSB 381)Author: Rev. Ryan Ogrodowicz, senior pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Brenham, TX.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Work through the first ten chapters of Matthew and learn more about who Jesus is. As you move through this study, you’ll ponder the theological, practical, and historical considerations of the text. With ample room for personal notes, this study will have you feeling confident in your understanding of Matthew’s Gospel. Matthew 1:1-11:1 of the new Concordia Commentary Bible Study Series is available now.

December 24, 2025Today's Reading: Matthew 1:18-25Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 44:21-45:13, 20-25; Daniel 10:1-12:13; Isaiah 48:1-22; Revelation 12:1-17“She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Isaiah 44:21-45:13 makes the point that God is in control of conducting affairs and uses people according to His good and gracious will. His Word won’t return void but always accomplishes His purpose. So, despite how chaotic and unpredictable the world seems at times, the world still exists under the God Who knows when the sparrow falls and the number of hairs on the head; the God turning the hearts of Kings and working through them as instruments for His divine command. Cyrus was one more King in a line of those ruling powerful empires whose lifespans were always framed by God’s divine boundaries. He was a subduer of nations whose hand God held to loosen the belts of kings and open gates to territories powerless before God. The point is clear: God works through people to fulfill His holy will.Against this backdrop we can read a passage like Matthew 1:18-25 and see again the LORD working through people, only this time it’s not a powerful earthly King but the virgin Mary. God doesn’t rely on the strength of the flesh and needs no temporal Kings to bring forth the One True King ruling on His throne, even in the womb. It’s a reversal from what we see in the Old Testament—the God Who uses Kings now uses the lowly virgin in the delicate womb to carry the Christ Who will establish His own Kingdom by blood.Matthew 1:21 is the divine Word of God foretelling salvation in the Christ Who will save His people from their sins. The birth of Jesus fulfills another prophecy in Isaiah 7:14 that says “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel.” Joseph is righteous not only in how he treats Mary when suspecting her of adultery, but in that he believes the Word from the angel of the Lord. He does according to God’s command and calls the child “Jesus.”The world still turns under God’s watch, which is a comforting truth alongside the Gospel teaching us that in this world of kings coming and going, nations rising and falling, chaos, pain, suffering, and death, God is good to keep His Word once again in sending His Son to fulfill His promise of saving sinners. The child in Mary’s womb would do it, showing again God faithfulness in keeping His Word to redeem the world which happens only by Jesus’ cross and blood.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Here a maid was found with child, Yet remained a virgin mild. In her womb this truth was shown: God was there upon His throne (LSB 332:3)Author: Rev. Ryan Ogrodowicz, senior pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Brenham, TX.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Work through the first ten chapters of Matthew and learn more about who Jesus is. As you move through this study, you’ll ponder the theological, practical, and historical considerations of the text. With ample room for personal notes, this study will have you feeling confident in your understanding of Matthew’s Gospel. Matthew 1:1-11:1 of the new Concordia Commentary Bible Study Series is available now.

December 23, 2025Today's Reading: Deuteronomy 18:15-19Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 43:25-44:20; Revelation 11:1-19“…I will put my words in his mouth, and he shall speak to them all that I command him” (Deuteronomy 18:18)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.God charges every prophet, disciple, apostle, and pastor to speak His Word; thus, the wide sense of Deuteronomy 18:18. God gives His Word to His men bearing the task of speaking the full counsel of the divine Word. God desires His office bearers to speak what He says without addition and subtraction to the mighty Word, a point any faithful pastor knows well. But is there an individual in mind here, or is God speaking about the Office for men tasked with the ministry in various points in human history?There are scholars arguing that God is only speaking about the prophets in general, without anyone in mind. Often, these arguments spin out of unbelief in the inspired text. People doubt the Bible to be God’s inerrant Word and concoct arguments from the premise that the Scriptures are void of any divine inspiration. The Bible without its divine character becomes just another book, a collection of myths by mortals under the familiar confines of a fallen world and sinful flesh. Our confession, however, is that the Bible can be trusted, and that it is the holy, infallible Word of God, inspired by the Holy Spirit, Who always testifies to God’s redemption won for us by Christ. Luther looked at this passage (Deuteronomy 18:18) and saw not only its divine character as the Word of God, but in light of Jesus, Who says about the Scriptures, “It is they that bear witness about me” (John 5:39), he saw Deuteronomy testifying to Christ. The “prophet” in chapter 18 is Christ from the blood of the Jews Who perfectly and completely taught the Word of God and fulfilled it in His suffering and death.Moses, a great leader and prophet in his own right, would not be the last. God would raise a large company of prophets, ultimately leading to Christ, the Prophet from the Jews, giving us the Holy Word of God, testifying to Himself as the Savior of the nations. The warning is clear: “whoever will not listen to my words that he shall speak in my name, I myself will require it of him” (Deuteronomy 18:19). Our task is to listen, a listening that always entails repentance and faith in the Prophet Who still speaks in His Word, teaches, leads, and guides us gathering in His Name and reading His Word on the pages of our Bibles testifying to God’s salvation in that Prophet, that Savior sent from God, our crucified and risen Savior Who is Jesus.  In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Lord Jesus, turn us daily to your Word and grant us repentance and faith always that leads to life everlasting obtained for us by Your blood that washes away all sin and makes us your Church. Amen.Author: Rev. Ryan Ogrodowicz, senior pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Brenham, TX.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Work through the first ten chapters of Matthew and learn more about who Jesus is. As you move through this study, you’ll ponder the theological, practical, and historical considerations of the text. With ample room for personal notes, this study will have you feeling confident in your understanding of Matthew’s Gospel. Matthew 1:1-11:1 of the new Concordia Commentary Bible Study Series is available now.

December 22, 2025Today's Reading: John 1:19-28 Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 43:1-24; Revelation 9:13-10:11“I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord,’ as the prophet Isaiah said” (John 1:23)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.The Pharisees sent priests and Levites to scope out the preacher, the first of many encounters between God and His enemies recorded in the Gospels. Their questions aren’t for idle curiosity and genuine desire for the truth. The higher-ups want to know what they’re dealing with and who the new preacher in town is, drawing the people away from themselves to Bethany across the Jordan.We know from Matthew and Luke that John knew this wasn’t a harmless delegation when he called them a “brood of vipers.” Still, he doesn’t shy or shirk from his duty. Boldly, John confesses that he isn’t the Christ, but rather a fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy. He is “the voice” calling people to readiness before the coming One Whose sandals he’s not worthy to untie.The blessed Christmas season highlights the birth of Jesus, and as we reflect upon His coming by the virgin Mary in a stable, John’s words are for us to hear: “Make straight the way of the Lord.” We crumple and break the ways of God in our sin. We know the Law, what God commands us to do, but daily our pesky, wretched Old Adam gets the upper hand. Try as we might, the Law still convicts, and our reliance before God can only be the One about Whom John boldly testifies and confesses. John calls us to straighten things out, get on the right path, and stop twisting and turning. In other words, John calls us to repentance. Christ is coming, the theme of Advent, and our lives anticipating His return for Judgment. Christ is coming on the Last Day and comes even now in Word and Sacrament. Repentance and faith define the life of the baptized believer, availing Himself of Christ and His gifts whenever possible.Finally, we should note John’s courage to confess in the face of enemies. It happens when the Christian knows persecution from those asking questions with evil intentions is coming. The Truth, however, prevails, and it’s another fruit of faith to be bold in the face of danger, knowing the One Who comes is the One Who has saved us from sin, risen from the dead, and gives to His Church that hope and freedom the devil and God’s enemies cannot overcome.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Once He came in blessing, All our sins redressing; Came in likeness lowly, son of God most holy; Bore the cross to save us; Hope and freedom gave us (LSB, 333:1)Author: Rev. Ryan Ogrodowicz, senior pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Brenham, TX.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Work through the first ten chapters of Matthew and learn more about who Jesus is. As you move through this study, you’ll ponder the theological, practical, and historical considerations of the text. With ample room for personal notes, this study will have you feeling confident in your understanding of Matthew’s Gospel. Matthew 1:1-11:1 of the new Concordia Commentary Bible Study Series is available now.

December 21, 2025Today's Reading: John 20:24-29Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 42:1-25; Revelation 9:1-12“Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” (John 20:29)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Thomas refused to believe his brothers’ testimony of the risen Christ. He wanted concrete proof, a living body he could feel, a real visual for the eyes. This makes sense. Jesus had prophesied His resurrection, and Thomas wanted evidence. Why would he give up everything for a lie? He’s doubting, thus the moniker “doubting Thomas”; still, no disciple abandons everything for a cause he knows is untrue. Jesus’ words “blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” are a gentle rebuke for Thomas and us who make demands on God when the Word is sufficient. Christ is merciful to give Thomas what He seeks and prompts that great confession, “My Lord and my God!” Thomas sees, believes, and goes on to exercise Jesus’ charge to forgive and retain sins (John 20:22-23) in a firm faith only God can give.It’s not hard to find people denying God while claiming a lack of proof. But how many stories are in the Bible recording miraculous events only for the people to continue in unbelief? The Israelites crossed the Red Sea in miraculous fashion, only to grumble about food. Jesus healed on the Sabbath before enemies seeking His death. Miracles, we find, don’t always result in faith and a proper understanding of Jesus. The devil who masquerades as an angel of light would love to have us turn to something other than the Word, telling us we need proof and evidence before faith. But the Scriptures are clear to teach us the power of the Holy Word and its sufficiency, therefore to create faith that believes and thus one is blessed without the eyes, without reason’s confirmation of God via the senses. The disciples’ witness of the living Christ is foundational to the testimony today going forth, echoing what Thomas and the others saw—the risen Christ Whose scars mean forgiveness and life. The Church still echoes this testimony and responds to Jesus in the words “My Lord and my God!” The Holy Spirit, Who works still in His Word, is good to create such faith before our risen Savior, Who speaks, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Almighty and ever-living God, You strengthened Your apostle Thomas with firm and certain faith in the resurrection of Your Son. Grant us such faith in Jesus Christ, our Lord and our God, that we may never be found wanting in Your sight; through the same Jesus Chris, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.Author: Rev. Ryan Ogrodowicz, senior pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Brenham, TX.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Work through the first ten chapters of Matthew and learn more about who Jesus is. As you move through this study, you’ll ponder the theological, practical, and historical considerations of the text. With ample room for personal notes, this study will have you feeling confident in your understanding of Matthew’s Gospel. Matthew 1:1-11:1 of the new Concordia Commentary Bible Study Series is available now.

December 20, 2025Today's Reading: Introit for Advent 4 - Psalm 19:1, 4-6; antiphon: Isaiah 45:8aDaily Lectionary: Isaiah 40:18-41:10; Revelation 8:1-13"The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork." (Psalm 19:1)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.The heavens declare. The sky proclaims. The glory of God is spoken. The handiwork of God is revealed. Creation itself shows us who God is. Not fully; we have the Scriptures to tell us in detail who God is and of His great sacrifice on the cross on our behalf. However, Almighty God, as creator and sustainer of life, is not unknowable apart from His Word. God’s creation reveals Him as Creator. The complex systems that are in place for sustaining our basic needs are all designed. And we can know whether or not we have sinned, because we do have a conscience within us. These are all the natural order of things. So all are without excuse when they stand before the Lord on the Last Day.That God is revealed in the natural order of things should drive us all the more to the place where He speaks about Himself. Yes, we can see God through His creation, but we know what He thinks of us by listening to His Word itself. We can see just how much our sin hurts ourselves and those around us when we listen to Him. And we can see just how much He cares for us by becoming a human being just like us. Standing in our place to take what we have earned by our sins. The heavens declare God's glory. But as amazing as the heavens are, it is the glory of Christ on His cross that gives us hope. God sacrificed Himself to save His creation, to save you and me. To make His advent here two thousand or so years ago. Be born, taking on our humanity to stand in our place and receive what we had earned. Then giving us His place, His righteousness, His life. And by that Gift, He gives us all others as well, including the beauty we see in His creation.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.O Savior rend the heavens wide; Come down, come down with mighty stride; Unlock the gates, the doors break down; Unbar the way to heaven's crown. (LSB 355:1)Author: Rev. Eli Davis, pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Grants Pass, OR.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Work through the first ten chapters of Matthew and learn more about who Jesus is. As you move through this study, you’ll ponder the theological, practical, and historical considerations of the text. With ample room for personal notes, this study will have you feeling confident in your understanding of Matthew’s Gospel. Matthew 1:1-11:1 of the new Concordia Commentary Bible Study Series is available now.

December 19, 2025Today's Reading: Revelation 7:1-17Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 40:1-17; Revelation 7:1-17"These are the ones coming out of the great tribulation. They have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb." (Revelation 7:14b)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.As we said on Wednesday, Revelation is not a timeline of the last days, but an image of Christ and His Church at all times. And also, there is once again a difference between what is heard and what is seen. 144,000 is 12 (the number of the church, both Old and New Testament) squared, times 1,000 (the number of completeness). We know it isn't meant to be a literal number of those saved, because we see how many are saved: more than we can count. Who are these countless number? They are the ones coming out of the great tribulation. Now, imagine the worst trouble you can think of. Does it fit the word tribulation in your mind? Is it worse than a perfect world where humanity was made by God to not die, being infected by sin, which destroys ourselves, harms one another, and causes all people to die? This fallen world is the great tribulation that Christ calls us out of. And He does so by washing us. That Baptism He gives you delivers the death of Jesus to you. It brings where He shed His blood to where you are now. And by that blood, your dirty, filthy, rotten sin is taken away. By His death on the cross, your sins are paid in full. And you are made clean, purified. Your Baptism is the seal that the Lord has put upon you. He has written His name across you, to let the world know that you are His. That's why He gives so much to save you. That's why He dies so that you would live. You are that important to Him. So important that He wants you to be in eternity with Him. He has grafted you into His people. He places you before His throne. He shelters you with His presence. He feeds you and gives you drink from Himself, so that you will hunger and thirst for righteousness no more. He has delivered it to you. And Jesus Christ, on the Last Day, in eternity, will indeed wipe away every tear from your eye.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Behold a host, arrayed in white, Like thousand snow-clad mountains bright! With palms they stand; Who is this band Before the throne of light? These are the saints of glorious fame, Who from the great affliction came And in the flood Of Jesus' blood Are cleansed from guilt and shame. They now serve God both day and night; They sing their songs in endless light. Their anthems ring As they all sing With angels shining bright. (LSB 676:1)Author: Rev. Eli Davis, pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Grants Pass, OR.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Work through the first ten chapters of Matthew and learn more about who Jesus is. As you move through this study, you’ll ponder the theological, practical, and historical considerations of the text. With ample room for personal notes, this study will have you feeling confident in your understanding of Matthew’s Gospel. Matthew 1:1-11:1 of the new Concordia Commentary Bible Study Series is available now.

December 18, 2025Today's Reading: Catechism - Table of Duties: To WidowsDaily Lectionary: Isaiah 34:1-2, 8-35:10; Micah 1:1-7:20; Revelation 6:1-17"She who is truly a widow, left all alone, has set her hope on God and continues in supplications and prayers night and day, but she who is self-indulgent is dead even while she lives." (1 Timothy 5:5-6)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.The Table of Duties tells us how we should live in the vocations that the Lord has placed us in. Even though not very many reading these Higher Things devotions are widows at the moment, that doesn't mean we skip these. Because in your congregations, you will almost always find widows. Some are helping wherever they can. Some are unsure of what to do next. All have faced one of the greatest losses a person can face. In this world, we are encouraged to be alone. That a video chat is as good as being there in person. That you can do all your work virtually. That your physical presence isn't necessary. But it doesn't work that way in the Church. To put your trust in the Lord is to never be alone. Yes, God is always with you, and that is never to be underestimated. However, you are not a Christian in isolation. The Lord put you into a congregation so that you would have people around you. Brothers and sisters in the faith. All part of one family, the Church.Yes, widows need someone to be there. However, they are very good at being there for you when you need them, too. They've been through more than you can imagine, and they understand where you're at better than you do. And they can do so, because in their darkest hours, our Lord is there for them. They face the loss of death every day. But they can face it together with the One who has overcome death Himself. Jesus brings them into His Church so they will not be alone in this. Jesus brings you into His Church for the same reason. If we live to ourselves alone, we will find this world a very lonely and empty place. But that's not who our Lord made us to be. When we hear those words of Absolution from our Lord, we do so with our brothers and sisters in the faith. When we receive Christ's Body and Blood, we do so shoulder to shoulder with our Church family. So that whenever you feel alone, not only do you have the Lord to turn to, you have His Church to turn to as well.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.No saint on earth lives life to self alone Nor dies alone, for we with Christ are one. So if we live, for Christ alone we live, And if we die, to Christ our dying give. In living and in dying this confess: We are the Lord's, safe in God's faithfulness. (LSB 747:1)Author: Rev. Eli Davis, pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Grants Pass, OR.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Work through the first ten chapters of Matthew and learn more about who Jesus is. As you move through this study, you’ll ponder the theological, practical, and historical considerations of the text. With ample room for personal notes, this study will have you feeling confident in your understanding of Matthew’s Gospel. Matthew 1:1-11:1 of the new Concordia Commentary Bible Study Series is available now.

December 17, 2025Today's Reading: Revelation 5:1-14Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 33:1-24; Revelation 5:1-14"...I saw a Lamb standing, as though it had been slain..." (Revelation 5:6)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Revelation is not a timeline of the last days, but an image of Christ and His Church at all times. Sure, the pictures described inside make the imagination run wild. But all of Scripture tells us about Jesus and what He has done for us. This chapter is no different. There is only one worthy to open or close the book of life. Hailed as the Lion of the tribe of Judah, we instead see someone very different. A slain Lamb. Slain, yet standing. The English is a bit awkward here, since the Lamb doesn't merely appear slain, yet isn't actually slain. No, the Lamb is slain, and yet stands alive. This is Jesus. The one who can reveal the sealed is the same one who is the lionlike Lamb and is the same one who died and yet lives. And he has revealed to you that He has written your name in His book of life. After all, He has placed His own name upon you. The name I AM when He speaks of Himself. The name Yahweh, which is Hebrew for HE IS, when we say it. His name, which He gives to you, also gives what it says. You are, through Him. You exist, you live, through Him. And to put that name upon you, the lionlike Lamb, the one who stands though slain, the one through whom all things exist, died. And He died for you. Only God can lay down His life and pick it back up again. And that's exactly what He did. Almighty God traded His life in exchange for yours. He suffered in your place for your sins. He was nailed to a cross so that you would be saved. His blood is what blots out all the sins written in crimson, and your name is written in His book. You are buried with Him by baptism into death in order that when He rose, you now have His resurrection promised to you. This is why all the powers of heaven praise Him. Because He has gone out and found you, rescued you, saved you. That's what every verse in Scripture is about, including these.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Yea, her sins our God will pardon, Blotting out each dark misdeed; All that well deserved his anger He will no more see nor heed. She hath suffered many a day, Now her griefs have passed away; God will change her pining sadness Into ever-springing gladness. (LSB 347:2)Author: Rev. Eli Davis, pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Grants Pass, OR.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Work through the first ten chapters of Matthew and learn more about who Jesus is. As you move through this study, you’ll ponder the theological, practical, and historical considerations of the text. With ample room for personal notes, this study will have you feeling confident in your understanding of Matthew’s Gospel. Matthew 1:1-11:1 of the new Concordia Commentary Bible Study Series is available now.

December 16, 2025Today's Reading: 1 Corinthians 4:1-5Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 32:1-20; Revelation 4:1-11"This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God." (1 Corinthians 4:1)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.It is important to know what a pastor isn't and what a pastor is. Since he's in front of the congregation all the time, we sometimes think he's the most important person there. He's not. We sometimes think that because he knows so much of God's Word, he must be holier than everyone else. He isn't. We sometimes think that he must have a secret line to God that the rest of us don't get. He doesn't. Pastors are people just like everyone else. We have the same sins, the same struggles, the same losses. What makes a pastor different is the vocation into which God has placed him. He speaks on Jesus’ behalf. When the Lord forgives sins, the pastor speaks Christ's forgiveness. When the Lord feeds His people, the pastor brings out what God has prepared. You see, Christ did not come as a master but as a servant. Likewise, those He sends to speak on His behalf do not come as masters but as servants—to serve as our Lord serves. That's why our worship is called the Divine Service—not because we serve the divine but because Christ serves you. He teaches you His Law, what He expects you to do. He teaches His Gospel, what He has done for you, especially at the cross. He washes your sins away. He clothes you with His righteousness. He sets you at His table, serving you His own body and blood to eat and drink. He gives you the gift of forgiveness, life, and salvation. So also the pastors whom God calls do these things at His command. Teaching, preaching, washing, serving. These things which God gives are important enough for Him to set a steward over them for your sake. A steward is someone who takes care of his master's things, does his master's business. And that is what a pastor does. God put him here for you. Not as someone far off beyond your reach, but someone, like Christ, who comes to where you are, to serve you where you need.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.The everlasting Son Incarnate deigns to be, Himself a servant form puts on To set His servants free. (LSB 331:2)Author: Rev. Eli Davis, pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Grants Pass, OR.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Work through the first ten chapters of Matthew and learn more about who Jesus is. As you move through this study, you’ll ponder the theological, practical, and historical considerations of the text. With ample room for personal notes, this study will have you feeling confident in your understanding of Matthew’s Gospel. Matthew 1:1-11:1 of the new Concordia Commentary Bible Study Series is available now.

December 15, 2025Today's Reading: Isaiah 40:1-11Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 30:27-31:9; Revelation 3:1-22"A voice cries: ‘In the wilderness prepare the way of the LORD; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain." (Isaiah 40:3-4)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.When John the Baptizer was asked who he was, he pointed to this verse from Isaiah. So, how did he change the landscape? By preaching repentance. Turns out people aren't generally keen on confessing their sins. The world is not a very forgiving place. We ourselves have been trained from the earliest ages to find reasons why our wrongs were actually rights. A child who is confronted with knocking over a lamp might blame a stuffed animal. That doesn't work, but our reasoning gets more sophisticated as we grow. It was a sibling's fault. It was a parent's fault for putting the lamp so close to the edge. It was an emergency, so haste was more important than the lamp. Whatever the reason, it doesn't matter. So long as someone believes it, we show ourselves to be right.We live in a world that demands self-righteousness. If you cannot justify yourself, you will be blamed. However, when people without faith sin in such a way that they cannot justify themselves, it breaks them. Guilt overwhelms them. All that self-justification was actually protection. And without it, people lose their minds, which is why confession and absolution in the Church is so weird to people. Why would anyone willingly put themselves through such guilt and shame? However, the repentance of a Christian has two parts. First is sorrow over our sin. That is the same as anyone else. It's the second part that is different. The second part is hope. A sure and certain hope that all our sin is forgiven. The guilt is made Christ's. The shame hangs on His shoulders. His blood pays for it. And His life is given for our salvation.Without Christ, we would make mountains to hide our sin behind. We would bury in whatever valley we could. But the way of the Lord leaves nowhere for our sin to hide. All our hiding places are made an open field, so the sin can all be seen. And so that Jesus can take it all away. That is why we are so willing to turn in repentance. That is why we willingly confess our sins. Because we know the one who takes them and makes them His. And they're ours no longer. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Make ye straight what long was crooked; Make the rougher places plain. Let your hearts be true and humble, As befits His holy reign. For the glory of the Lord Now o'er earth is shed abroad, and all flesh shall see the token That His Word is never broken. (LSB 347:4)Author: Rev. Eli Davis, pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Grants Pass, OR.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Work through the first ten chapters of Matthew and learn more about who Jesus is. As you move through this study, you’ll ponder the theological, practical, and historical considerations of the text. With ample room for personal notes, this study will have you feeling confident in your understanding of Matthew’s Gospel. Matthew 1:1-11:1 of the new Concordia Commentary Bible Study Series is available now.

December 14, 2025Today's Reading: Matthew 11:2-11Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 30:15-26; Revelation 2:1-29"Are you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?" (Matthew 11:3)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.John the Baptizer has been faithful since before he was born. John leapt in his mother Elizabeth's womb in greeting when Jesus visited inside Mary before He was born. He proclaimed a baptism of repentance while dressed in camel's hair and eating locusts. He stood against Herod marrying his brother's wife, which is why he was in prison. But such faithfulness doesn't make doubt impossible, especially when things don't work out the way you hoped they would. We, too, might be faithful in much of what God gives to us. We have confessed Christ when it cost us. We have shared the Gospel with those who needed it, even if they didn't want it. We have called upon Him in times of great need. But what happens when things don't turn out the way we planned? That prayer didn't receive the answer we wanted? That friend betrayed us? A loved one dies? In those moments, we want Christ to answer us: Are you the right one? Or is it someone else? Jesus answers John, John's disciples, and us in the same way, by actually doing the things that He promised. And every promise finds its yes in Jesus' death and resurrection. Because Jesus died for you. Those things that didn't go according to our plan? Remember that God's plan included a cross for Christ to die on. Prayer didn't get the answer we wanted? Jesus prayed for the cup to pass from Him, though not if it was against the Father's will. And the Father's will was for us to be saved from our sin. That friend who betrayed us? By Jesus' betrayal, the price for sin was paid forever on our behalf. A loved one dies? By the death of Jesus, death itself is destroyed. It may have seemed like things were not working throughout Jesus' passion and death. But as Easter morning dawned, sin was forgiven, paid in blood. Death was conquered, as Jesus rose as the firstborn from the dead. The devil had no more claim on anyone, as Christ kicked down the gates of Hell itself in victory. Yes, those moments of doubt come. But all God's promises are answered with “yes” at His cross. Look there, and see what our Lord thinks of you. You are worth God giving up His own life to save. And what can matter more than that?In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Lord Jesus Christ, we implore You to hear our prayers and to lighten the darkness of our hearts by Your gracious visitation; for You live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. (Collect for the Third Sunday in Advent)Author: Rev. Eli Davis, pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Grants Pass, OR.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Work through the first ten chapters of Matthew and learn more about who Jesus is. As you move through this study, you’ll ponder the theological, practical, and historical considerations of the text. With ample room for personal notes, this study will have you feeling confident in your understanding of Matthew’s Gospel. Matthew 1:1-11:1 of the new Concordia Commentary Bible Study Series is available now.