January 11, 2026
Today's Reading: Matthew 3:13-17
Daily Lectionary: Ezekiel 33:1-20; Romans 3:1-18
“Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented him, saying, ‘I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?’ But Jesus answered him, ‘Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.’" (Matthew 3:13-15)
In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.
John the Baptist was right, you know. Jesus had no need to be baptized. He is God made Man. He is the God-Man. He is righteousness enfleshed. Shouldn’t Jesus baptize the wild prophet from the wilderness instead? John at least understands how much of a sinner he is, and he knows that Jesus is the Lamb of God, the One who takes away the sin of the world. Jesus should be the one who baptizes!
Here again, though, you see the overwhelming grace of God at work for you. It seems ludicrous that Jesus insists that John baptize Him “to fulfill all righteousness.” But if you look at this from the perspective of Jesus being the only One who can do what you cannot, it makes perfect sense.
Here, Jesus goes even deeper into His State of Humiliation, setting aside His glory and might even more, going down into the muddy waters of the Jordan River to become the sponge that soaks up every sin washed into every font by every Baptism that happens throughout human history.
Jesus fulfills the righteous will of God the Father by absorbing into Himself, and even becoming, every sin ever committed. This is the moment when Jesus picks up your sinfulness, and every single sin you commit, and begins to bear it to His cross on Golgotha.
It’s still hard to comprehend. “No, Jesus! I don’t want you to have to carry my sin! You are God, why should you stoop so low and do such a distasteful thing?” But this is exactly what Jesus becomes man to do—to take from you what you cannot fix and restore it perfectly. To keep the Law of God perfectly, which you cannot. To love your neighbors more deeply than you ever could. To remake you into His perfect creation, a holy saint worthy of life with Him for all eternity.
All of that happens in the most pedestrian way possible. With plain water and the words “In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Righteousness, fulfilled for you.
In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.
Father in heaven, at the Baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River You proclaimed Him Your beloved Son and anointed Him with the Holy Spirit. Make all who are baptized in His name faithful in their calling as Your children and inheritors with Him of everlasting life; through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. (Collect for The Baptism of Our Lord).
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 10, 2026
Today's Reading: Introit for The Baptism of Our Lord - Psalm 89:1, 26-28; antiphon: Liturgical Text; Psalm 89:20
Daily Lectionary: Ezekiel 18:1-4, 19-32; Ezekiel 19:1-24:27; Romans 2:17-29
“I will sing of the steadfast love of the LORD, forever; with my mouth I will make known your faithfulness to all generations. He shall cry to me, ‘You are my Father, my God, and the Rock of my salvation.’ And I will make him the firstborn, the highest of the kings of the earth. My steadfast love I will keep for him forever, and my covenant will stand firm for him.” (From The Introit for The Baptism of Our Lord)
In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.
Tomorrow is the celebration of the Baptism of Our Lord and all of the strange and wonderful things that day brings: John the Baptist’s confusion, the voice from the rent-open heavens, the Holy Spirit descending “like a dove.” And God speaks to Jesus: “This is my beloved Son.”
The Introit for tomorrow helps set the stage with language you see all over Holy Scripture. Language of Father and Son, seen and explained by psalmists, prophets, Jesus Himself, and the writer to the Hebrews, to mention only a few.
In all of this, there is the clear proclamation that God the Father has sent God the Son to accomplish the task for which He was sent. The Son is obedient to the Father’s will and direction, and the Father honors Him for his steadfastness in the task ahead, even though it means a gruesome sacrifice to come.
The picture of perfection. The ideal that we sinful believers can never obtain on our own. The Son of God becomes man, submits Himself to God’s holy and righteous Law, lives a perfect life in our place, and stands as the substitute for our own deaths. Then, he gives the benefits of that perfection to all who call upon Him in faith. And in response, God the Father establishes His Son as the King of kings, the Lord of lords. He elevates Him to the highest place to honor what He has done for us and our salvation.
That shows you there’s a lot going on in the background of a simple Baptism in the Jordan River, doesn’t it? Our Lord and God does nothing halfway; He has a plan for everything. And that plan is to bring salvation to His people, to the world, to all who call upon His name in faith and trust.
A Baptism to set the stage for every Baptism. A Baptism that works the miracle of resurrection and salvation for all those baptized in the name of the Triune God. So the Father honors the Son for His saving work for you. And in response, we, too, give thanks to God for His mighty work.
In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.
New songs of celebration render To Him who has great wonders done; Love sits enthroned in ageless splendor; Come and adore the mighty One. He has made known His great salvation Which all His friends with joy confess. He has revealed to ev’ry nation His everlasting righteousness. (LSB 792:1)
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.
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 9, 2026
Today's Reading: Ezekiel 3:12-27
Daily Lectionary: Ezekiel 3:12-27; Ezekiel 4:1-11:25; Romans 2:1-16
“Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel. Whenever you hear a word from my mouth, you shall give them warning from me…But when I speak with you, I will open your mouth, and you shall say to them, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD.’ He who will hear, let him hear; and he who will refuse to hear, let him refuse, for they are a rebellious house.” (Ezekiel 3:17, 27)
In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.
One of the most comforting (and also scary) things that it frequently takes pastors a long time to realize is what the Lord God says to Ezekiel: “I will open your mouth and you shall say.” Pastors sometimes get a little squirrely because they can be too concerned about how the people in their charge will hear the Word of the Lord. But that isn’t part of this discussion, is it?
Pastors speak what has been given them to speak, because they have been charged to do so by the Lord of the Church. Whether or not those with ears want to hear is irrelevant; the Word must be proclaimed so that it may accomplish that for which He sent it forth, as Isaiah says.
And this is what the hearers of that proclaimed Word need to hear: “[you] are a rebellious house.” Yes, the people of God, the hearers of His Holy Word, are rebellious, and they don’t want to listen. Sound familiar? Ever been a little stubborn about hearing what you needed to hear? That’s the Old Adam in you, that is your sinful nature, rebelling against the pure and holy Word of God because it is not pleasant for the dark sin within to be bathed in such holy light.
Yet, God the Father gives you a pastor to proclaim His Word to you, whether you want to hear it or not, because you need to hear it. You need to know how much your God and Lord loves you. You need to hear that His Son, Jesus, became flesh for you to live your life, to die your death, to bear your sin, to make you new.
It may not be pleasant to hear, and you may not like the fact that you cannot do all of this on your own, but that’s how it is. Almighty God does all of the work of saving you through the life, death, and resurrection of His Son. He baptizes you into that death and resurrection, and he grants eternal life to those who trust in that truth. So hear and trust that Word, even if it is difficult.
In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.
Oh, what blessing to be near You And to listen to Your voice; Let me ever love and hear You, Let Your Word be now my choice! Many hardened sinners, Lord, Flee in terror at Your Word; But to all who feel sin’s burden You give words of peace and pardon. (LSB 589:2)
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.
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 8, 2026
Today's Reading: Catechism - Table of Duties: To Everyone
Daily Lectionary: Ezekiel 2:1-3:11; Romans 1:18-32
“The commandments...are summed up in this one rule: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.’ (Romans 13:9)
I urge…that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone. (1 Timothy 2:1)” (Small Catechism, Table of Duties, To Everyone)
In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.
Do you want to fulfill God’s Law perfectly? It isn’t difficult. Jesus said to one of the Pharisees who questioned him about the Law that loving God with every fiber of your being and loving your neighbor as yourself is how you keep God’s Law. Easy-peasy, right? Just love God and your neighbors perfectly, and you have it all sorted out!
Except it isn’t that easy, is it? St. Paul tells Timothy that we should pray for everyone. Since all of Holy Scripture applies to all of us, those prayers for everyone are part of loving God perfectly, because He has given us those neighbors for whom we should pray. Even the neighbors we don’t necessarily like or even want to pray for. Oops.
No matter how much you try, you will never be able to be perfect or keep God’s Law perfectly; it is impossible because of sin. You just can’t do it. But that doesn’t mean you give up on it, either. For the command has been given to us to love and pray for our neighbors, regardless of our ability (or even desire!) to do it properly.
And that is actually the comforting part of these commands of God. Even though He knows you can’t do it perfectly, He still gives you the opportunity. Just like learning a new skill or a new sport, God sends His Holy Spirit to teach, guide, and coach you in the way you should go. He puts all kinds of neighbors in your life so that you can learn how to love them and how to care for them with your words, actions, prayers, and more.
He has recreated you in your Baptism as His own child. He continues to speak to you and teach you through His Word and your pastor’s sermons and Bible classes. He forgives you in confession and Absolution. And he forgives, sustains, and strengthens you in the Lord’s Supper, too.
All of these things He does for you, even though you so often fail spectacularly at keeping His Commandments and loving your neighbors. So take heart and go boldly out into this world and love your neighbors as best you can, pray for them, and give thanks for their presence in your life, knowing that when you do fail, the Blood of Christ covers even those sins.
In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.
Called by worship to Your service, Forth in Your dear name we go, To the child, the youth the aged, Love in living deeds to show; Hope and health, goodwill and comfort, Counsel aid, and peace we give, That Your servants, Lord, in freedom May Your mercy know and live. (LSB 848:4)
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.
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 7, 2026
Today's Reading: 1 Peter 4:12-19
Daily Lectionary: Ezekiel 1:1-14, 22-28; Habakkuk 1:1-3:19; Romans 1:1-17
“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. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.” (1 Peter 4:12-13)
In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.
“Do you intend to continue steadfast in this confession and Church and to suffer all, even death, rather than fall away from it? Then answer: ‘I do, by the grace of God.’” This is the most difficult question of all to ask (and even answer!) in the Rite of Confirmation. I have known pastors in years gone by who left it out of the rite because it was so uncomfortable, and also because “This is America, persecution will never happen here!”
It may well be that wide-scale suffering of Christians will never happen here. Then again, Satan is a wily foe, and you never know what he has planned next. But look at what St. Peter urges of the Christian: “Do not be surprised” when it comes. After all, your Lord Christ was the Son of God in the flesh, the Savior, and look how he was treated by those who opposed Him. Rejected, scorned, despised, and that was even before the Romans got hold of Him!
What makes you think that you should be spared the same fate as the One who lived your life and died your death? That’s why St. Peter says you should not be surprised. This sinful world hates the truth, and as one of the baptized, you are also of the truth, so you should expect some pushback from sin, death, and the Devil.
But don’t miss the last sentence, because it isn’t all bad news. Rejoice that the world treats you so, because their derision towards you is a sign that you are Christ’s. And if you are Christ’s, He has promised to come again in glory for you on the Last Day to gather you with all the faithful into the New Creation and the wedding feast of the Lamb that has no end. So, don’t despair when the world treats you poorly. Know that your eternity is secure in Jesus. Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!
In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.
Lord Jesus Christ, before whom all in heaven and earth shall bow, grant courage that Your children may confess Your saving name in the face of any opposition from a world hostile to the Gospel. Help them to remember Your faithful people who sacrificed much and even faced death rather than dishonor You when called upon to deny the faith. By Your Spirit, strengthen them to be faithful and to confess You boldly, knowing that You will confess Your own before the Father in heaven, with whom You and the Holy Spirit live and reign, one God, now and forever. Amen. (Collect for Persecuted Christians)
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.
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 6, 2026
Today's Reading: Matthew 2:1-12
Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 66:1-20; Luke 3:21-38
“When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh.” (Matthew 2:10-11)
In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.
Strange men visiting from a foreign country, stately men bowing down to a toddler, and very odd gifts being given—the Feast of Epiphany can certainly seem a bit weird, can’t it? Observed only thirteen days after Christmas, it may seem a bit of an odd celebration, with this focus on foreign visitors and the aftermath.
But isn’t this the whole point of the Son of God becoming Man? To come in the flesh for the salvation of the world? To temporarily veil the Glory of God in Jesus so that He may fulfill all of God’s Law for us?
That’s what the gifts from the foreign visitors mean, too. They point to Jesus’s work for us and for our salvation. Gold, a gift fitting for a king, the one who rules in power and might from His throne. But this one isn’t only a king. He also serves as priest (and ultimately the perfect sacrifice), so it is also proper that he be given frankincense, the aroma of which reminds people of the rising of their prayers to God’s throne, and the smoke reminding them that God receives their sacrifice. And don’t forget the myrrh. This is the most difficult one, for it is the spice and balm of death, used to obscure the smell of decay. Already as a child, Jesus is reminded of what is to come: his suffering and death for all.
In all of this, Jesus is revealed to the world as the one sent from God to be the Savior of mankind. The Wise Men certainly didn’t make this kind of journey for every royal child born; there is something exceptional here. Just as creation would later mark Jesus’ death with darkness and an earthquake, his birth was also marked and noted by creation; a star that blossomed in the sky and led them to seek out the child on a journey that lasted for many months and crossed entire empires.
All of this is done to reveal the light that no darkness can overcome. The brilliance of Christ's purifying light shines in our dark world to draw all to his saving Word and work. Christ has been revealed to the nations and to you so that you may trust that this One is your Savior and Lord.
In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.
Once far off but now invited, We approach Your sacred throne, In Your covenant united, Reconciled, redeemed, made one. Now revealed to eastern sages, See the Star of Mercy shine, Myst’ry hid in former ages, Myst’ry great of love divine. (LSB 409:2)
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.
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 5, 2026
Today's Reading: Genesis 46:1-7
Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 65:8-25; Luke 3:1-20
“I am God, the God of your father. Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for there I will make you into a great nation. I myself will go down with you to Egypt, and I will also bring you up again, and Joseph’s hand shall close your eyes.” (Genesis 46:3-4)
In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.
Several years ago, I received a Divine Call away from my home state. It was an existential crisis for me to move away, even though I knew it was at the Lord’s direction and that He would guide me along the way. Now, I’ve returned “home” from that “exile” and everything is perfect, right? Of course not!
Jacob also doesn’t want to leave the Promised Land he had been given by God, even though it was God’s plan for him to do so. He wants to stay where he is because that was how he understood God’s promise to Abraham, his grandfather. But the Lord’s plans for us often follow unexpected detours.
Like Jacob, we want to bypass struggle and get straight to glory. We are sure we know better than God how our lives should play out, so we doubt God’s plans and direction. Except our all-powerful God isn’t tied to one place. Sure, Canaan is the land He promised to Jacob, but this time in Egypt is only one small step on the road of God’s people being established for eternity.
God told Abraham this would happen (in Genesis 15); it was the plan all along for Jacob’s family to live in Egypt for generations and to grow there into the nation that Moses and Joshua would lead back “home.” The Lord God did not desert His people, even when it seemed so. He had a future planned for them from the start, and He guided them to it.
In a similar way, the years away from family for me were difficult. Even so, the Lord’s work was being done; His great nation was being made in His way and on His schedule. Even now, I’m not really “home.” I won’t be until the Last Day when the true Promised Land is revealed in the New Creation.
That’s the underlying truth of Jacob’s move, and of your life. No matter how this world may change for Christians, God’s mercy remains unchanged. His guiding hand will lead you home to the inexplicable glory of His presence that you see veiled now in preached Word and Sacramental Gifts, but then face to face.
In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.
Almighty God, our heavenly Father, because of Your tender love toward us sinners You have given us Your Son that, believing in Him, we might have everlasting life. Continue to grant us Your Holy Spirit that we may remain steadfast in this faith to the end and finally come to life everlasting; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. (Collect for Steadfast Faith)
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.
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 4, 2026
Today's Reading: Matthew 2:13-23
Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 63:15-65:7; Luke 2:41-52
“And he rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed to Egypt and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, ‘Out of Egypt I called my son.’” (Matthew 2:14-15)
In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.
There is a deep thread of exodus that flows through Holy Scripture. And so often, that exodus crosses a body of water. God calls his people out of Egypt and across the Red Sea. Joshua leads the Israelites across the Jordan River into Canaan. Jacob wrestles with an angel at the Jabbok. Even Noah and his family in the ark is a kind of exodus: at God’s command, they flee sinful earth, cross over the waters, and step ashore in a new land, unburdened with the sin of the past. And John the Baptist conducts much of his ministry at and in the Jordan.
Over and over again, this image repeats itself in God’s Word. God’s people end up in Egypt so that God can preserve them from a famine, but that isn’t their ultimate home. Even the Promised Land they return to under Joshua’s leadership isn’t their ultimate home. There are more exoduses to come.
The ultimate exodus for God’s people is the one from death to eternal life in the New Creation. And that exodus can’t happen unless the way, the path to that life, is blazed and made known. So Jesus goes into Egypt, into the historic land of bondage and slavery, to establish that way.
He is put into the shoes of every child of God and begins a journey out of that land of sin and death, bondage and slavery. He is called out of that place by God onto the way prepared by John the Baptist to show us the way to eternal life and righteousness.
And in this journey, Jesus is made into Israel, reduced to one. He is the entirety of the Christian Church contained in one man. He becomes man to lead sinful humanity into perfection and righteousness.
God the Father calls Jesus out of Egypt as a child so that He may later call him out of death and into life again on Easter Sunday. Jesus goes into death for you to pull you out of death and into life by His Word, your Baptism, and His Supper.
In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.
Almighty God, You have poured into our hearts the true Light of Your incarnate Word. Grant that this Light may shine forth in our lives; through the same Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen (Collect for The Second Sunday after Christmas)
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.
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 3, 2026
Today's Reading: Introit for Second Sunday After Christmas - Psalm 8:1, 4-6; antiphon: Psalm 8:2
Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 63:1-14; Luke 2:21-40
“Out of the mouth of babies and infants, you have established strength because of your foes, to still the enemy and the avenger.” (Psalm 8:2)
In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.
Christmas provides us with a unique lens to contemplate Psalm 8:2. Almighty God stills the enemy and the avenger. To still in the Hebrew is “lehashbit.” It is where we get the word “sabbath.” It means to cease or to put rest. In the context of God’s enemies, it means He stops them dead in their tracks. Those wicked forces at work by the demonic or our own sin (think Herod) are stopped dead in their tracks from derailing the Lord’s plan of redemption. But how does He do this? Through the mouth of babies and infants! Not with the blunt force of angelic or earthly armies, not with an iron fist, but through the weakest and most vulnerable, babies and infants. God defeats the violent and arrogant lies of Satan, the world, and our sinful flesh with what the wisdom of the world would call “weak” or “foolish.” Think of this: While Jesus is the Son of God, rightly ordering the existence of the universe, He was a vulnerable baby dependent upon the arms and milk of His blessed mother! And this “weakness” begins the downfall of death and the devil. And the strength of weakness continues; beaten, bloody, and mocked on the cross, the gates of Heaven open to us, and the strength of Hell is slammed shut. And what does the Apostle Paul say, “God chose the weak in the world to shame the strong…so that no human being might boast before God.” (1 Corinthians 1:27-29) Christ within you, and you within Christ through Word and Sacrament, your faith clings to Him alone! And that faith which hangs on the Gospel causes the accuser and the powers of darkness to quake. Not because you are strong, but because you are as weak and helpless as a baby, and your strength is in the God-man born, crucified, raised, and ascended for you, our Lord Jesus! So at Christmastime, learn from St. Mary, “magnify the LORD and rejoice in God Your Savior.” Join with the blessed St. Paul and boast all the more gladly in your own weakness, so that the power of Christ may rest upon you (2 Corinthians 12:9).
In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.
You still the wicked’s very boast, Establish strength to the utmost, By babes and mouths of infants small, Our enemies in silence fall. (Metered version of Psalm 8:2 to the tune of Vom Himmel Hoch found in LSB 358. Stanza written by Rev. Matthew Synnott)
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 2, 2026
Today's Reading: Galatians 4:1-7
Daily 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, 2026
Today's Reading: Luke 2:21
Daily 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, 2025
Today's Reading: Luke 12:35-40
Daily 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, 2025
Today's Reading: Isaiah 11:1-5 or 2 Samuel 7:1-16
Daily 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, 2025
Today's Reading: Luke 2:(22-32) 33-40
Daily 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, 2025
Today's Reading: Matthew 2:13-18
Daily 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, 2025
Today's Reading: John 21:20-25
Daily 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, 2025
Today's Reading: Matthew 23:34-39
Daily 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, 2025
Today's Reading: John 1:1-18
Daily 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, 2025
Today's Reading: Matthew 1:18-25
Daily 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, 2025
Today's Reading: Deuteronomy 18:15-19
Daily 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.