St. Paul Lutheran Church Grafton, WI

A DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: On this Patriot Day, our nation pauses to commemorate the almost 3000 individuals who died on September 11, 2001. We find strength in God's promises to us in Scripture. James tells us, "Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love Him" (1:12). May the Lord bless you with His peace.

Psalm 119

“Endure,” by Pastor Anderson, based on Hebrews 12:1-3.

Romans 12:19

A DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: Our Lutheran Church remembers Moses today, September 4. As the writer of the first five books of the Bible, the Pentateuch, he brought us much information on God's care for His people. We especially cherish the Ten Commandments received by Moses as God's will for all people and for all time. Yet, even more, God promised, "I will raise up for Israel a prophet like you." Jesus is that prophet and more. He not only communicates God's will, but fulfilled that will for us. Jesus frees us from sin, death, and the devil, and He offers us forgiveness when we fail to obey the Ten Commandments. Today we rejoice in the revelation of Moses and the greater Moses, Jesus.

Sermon

Romans 12:18

A DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: On this date, August 28, we remember Augustine of Hippo, who died on this date in A.D. 430. Augustine was one of the great early Christian theologians who was converted as a young man after living a rather wild life. A verse which moved him was Romans 13:13-14, where Paul said to "clothe yourself with the Lord Jesus Christ." Augustine realized his life of sin was not satisfying his real needs. He wrote his Confessions about his change in heart and later "On Christian Doctrine." In the latter work, he said "I believe in order to understand and I understand, the better to believe." Augustine understood God's grace in Christ and trusted God's Holy Word of Scripture, which he expounded for the rest of his life.

Psalm 26

"Expecting A Mountaintop Experience," by Pastor Maschkebased on Hebrews 12:18-24.

Romans 12:17

A DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: WATER--a beneficial blessing or a devastating force! We've seen the problems associated with too much water in our area recently as well as in other parts of the country. Yet, water is essential for life. Our bodies are over 50% water. Luther spoke of the condemnation as well as the benefits of water in his Flood Prayer in which he recalls Noah and his family being saved in the ark and the people of Israel walking through the Red Sea on dry land, yet Pharaoh's army being destroyed. May you rejoice in the waters of Baptism by which the Spirit worked faith and connected you to Jesus and eternal life with the Father.

Psalm 138

"Speaking Faithfully,” by Pastor Schultz based on Luke12:49–53 .

Romans 12:16

Don’t Be like a Duck; Be like a Bird,” by Pastor Anderson,based on Luke 12:22-34.

Living a New Life, by Pastor Schultz based on Luke12:13–21.

A DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: In Psalm 46:10, God reminds us to "Be still, and know that I am God." At times we are too eager to speak, whether it is in our prayer life or in our conversations with others. God reminds us especially to be silent before Him. As He said to Job, "Pay attention, Job, listen to Me. Keep silent and let Me speak...Keep silent and I will teach you wisdom." May you take the time this week to be silent before the Lord and listen to His Word of love, forgiveness, hope, and salvation.

Psalm 119