Bells are ringing, gifts are being given, family and friends are celebrating, songs are being sung. It is a joyous occasion.
Really, it is, despite whatever disagreements you’ve had over what to get the kids or who’s family to spend more time with.
What? You still don’t believe me? I’m sorry to hear that. I guess you’ll have to try harder next year.
Don’t want to wait until next year? Tired of the Christmas frustrations? Then stop what you are doing for a moment and hear God’s Word on the topic. “The Virgin will bear a Son and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”
That infant in diapers in the manger is God himself. He is bigger than any disagreements you will have this Christmas, for He has taken away the world’s sin.
Joy to the earth, the Savior reigns!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Christmas Eve
Merry Christmas! The angels sang! The shepherds saw. Mary pondered. The shepherds rejoiced and told all that they saw and heard.
There will be Santa and mistletoe and cartoons filled with gleeful characters that bring a nostalgic smile to faces all the while families sit around decorated trees tearing into presents.
These things are all good. Enjoy the moments that God has provided for you this season.
But don’t miss the opportunity to receive the greatest gift of all; God in human flesh. Receive Jesus this season in His Holy Word. See Jesus, just as the shepherds saw him that first Christmas night, Jesus, in body and blood, residing in His Word for you.
Be gathered together by the Gospel call, like a child calling the family around the tree to open presents. Only this is the greatest present of all, Jesus bestowing His forgiveness on you.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Advent 4
In the hustle and bustle of the season, where family and friends enter our lives to join our celebrations, take time to ponder another family who made a journey to their home town. There amidst a normally sleepy little town, now bustling with weary travelers for a census, came a normal looking family.
But this normal looking family awaited an event that was foretold from the fall of man into sin; the birth of the Savior of the world. The one who would destroy sin and death forever. The one who would reunite our heavenly Father with His children eternally.
They would call Him Jesus, just as the angel said, for He would save the world from their sins. Come to reside in human flesh. God and man inseparably united together. Come to reside with you.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
But this normal looking family awaited an event that was foretold from the fall of man into sin; the birth of the Savior of the world. The one who would destroy sin and death forever. The one who would reunite our heavenly Father with His children eternally.
They would call Him Jesus, just as the angel said, for He would save the world from their sins. Come to reside in human flesh. God and man inseparably united together. Come to reside with you.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Advent 3
Paul says in his letter to the Philippians: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
The Lord is at hand. Yes, how true. After all, isn’t that what we are preparing to celebrate, the birth of Lord of hosts? Where Jesus’ presence is, there is peace. When Jesus touches the lives of people, there is peace. When He walked on the earth, the deaf heard and the dead were raised up. Now, as His Word goes out, good news is preached. That good news grants eternal peace wherever it goes.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
The Lord is at hand. Yes, how true. After all, isn’t that what we are preparing to celebrate, the birth of Lord of hosts? Where Jesus’ presence is, there is peace. When Jesus touches the lives of people, there is peace. When He walked on the earth, the deaf heard and the dead were raised up. Now, as His Word goes out, good news is preached. That good news grants eternal peace wherever it goes.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Advent 2
In Charles Dickens’ a Christmas Carol, the stingy, cranky, old Ebenezer Scrooge is confronted by 3 Ghosts. They prepared Scrooge’s heart to be receptive to a greater message.
John the Baptizer’s role was just like that of the Ghosts of Christmas in the Christmas Carol. To prepare the hearts of those to receive the work of the coming Savior.
Though your past may have been jaded, your present actions may be selfish, and your future is dim in your sinfulness.
Through messengers like John the Baptizer, God’s Law calls us to change our ways.
God reaches out: Like Marley did with Scrooge: he desires that you will not have an eternal life of pain and suffering. He calls you by the Gospel so that you may know that an eternal banquet feast has been prepared for you through Jesus Christ.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
John the Baptizer’s role was just like that of the Ghosts of Christmas in the Christmas Carol. To prepare the hearts of those to receive the work of the coming Savior.
Though your past may have been jaded, your present actions may be selfish, and your future is dim in your sinfulness.
Through messengers like John the Baptizer, God’s Law calls us to change our ways.
God reaches out: Like Marley did with Scrooge: he desires that you will not have an eternal life of pain and suffering. He calls you by the Gospel so that you may know that an eternal banquet feast has been prepared for you through Jesus Christ.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Advent 1
The First Sunday in Advent marks the beginning of a new year in the worship life of the church. The word Advent means “coming”. The coming is the fulfillment of the promise of Immanuel, God with us to accomplish the salvation the Father promised to us.
Advent is a season of preparation—not simply of our homes, meals, and presents, but also time of preparation for our hearts.
A time of recognizing with thanksgiving why our Lord came in the first place. We celebrate God coming to us in the flesh as a child in a lowly manger. A time to recognize why that infant child, born to be King, would one day receive a crown of thorns. We celebrate Christ as the Messiah, riding on a lowly donkey on His way to bear our sins on the cross and to rise again as our Savior.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Advent is a season of preparation—not simply of our homes, meals, and presents, but also time of preparation for our hearts.
A time of recognizing with thanksgiving why our Lord came in the first place. We celebrate God coming to us in the flesh as a child in a lowly manger. A time to recognize why that infant child, born to be King, would one day receive a crown of thorns. We celebrate Christ as the Messiah, riding on a lowly donkey on His way to bear our sins on the cross and to rise again as our Savior.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Thanksgiving
Stop! Before you carve that turkey. Put that fork down! Fold your hands and bow your heads. On this day of National Thanksgiving it is easy to be thankful for the food on the plate and the family that is there to share it with you. But before you say grace and move on, hear God’s Word through Paul to Timothy:
“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people… This is good and pleasing in the sight of God our Savior.”
Yes that is right, all people. Those government officials that you want to vote out of office. That schoolyard bully. Our nations’ enemies. Pray for them. This is good and pleasing to our Savior Jesus for He gave His life for them as well. Give thanks for that good and perfect gift!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people… This is good and pleasing in the sight of God our Savior.”
Yes that is right, all people. Those government officials that you want to vote out of office. That schoolyard bully. Our nations’ enemies. Pray for them. This is good and pleasing to our Savior Jesus for He gave His life for them as well. Give thanks for that good and perfect gift!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Proper 29
The end is near! Will it be chaotic? Dark? What will bring it to an end? You say I need a Savior now. What good will this Jesus do for me?
For those who are in Christ, they need not fear all of the earthly calamity that is happening now. Jesus says, “Heaven and Earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.” His words of promise and salvation are for all who trust in Him. When you are in Him, eternity is yours.
Stay awake!
Be ever vigilant. One never knows when Jesus will return. Keep your eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of your faith. He is coming again. Don’t turn your eyes from Him. Don’t let all of the tribulation of this world divert your eyes or lose faith. Stay awake! Salvation is sure and certain in Jesus.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
For those who are in Christ, they need not fear all of the earthly calamity that is happening now. Jesus says, “Heaven and Earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.” His words of promise and salvation are for all who trust in Him. When you are in Him, eternity is yours.
Stay awake!
Be ever vigilant. One never knows when Jesus will return. Keep your eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of your faith. He is coming again. Don’t turn your eyes from Him. Don’t let all of the tribulation of this world divert your eyes or lose faith. Stay awake! Salvation is sure and certain in Jesus.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Proper 28
Signs are everywhere. They tell us where to turn, what store we are in, and warn us when there is danger. The world is full of signs: The leaves are falling. Wars and worldly strife. Broken families. Wildfires, earthquakes, and hurricanes that tear the world apart and take life.
What do all of these signs have in common? They tell us a change is about to take place. Unfortunately the change isn’t as tame as fall turning into winter. But it is just as obvious. When we see all the pain, suffering, and death, Jesus says these are the beginning of the birth pains.
Not the birth pains of a new earthly child, but rather the glorious return of Jesus to take all who endure in faith to the end to be with himself forever where there is no more pain and, only glorious eternal life.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
What do all of these signs have in common? They tell us a change is about to take place. Unfortunately the change isn’t as tame as fall turning into winter. But it is just as obvious. When we see all the pain, suffering, and death, Jesus says these are the beginning of the birth pains.
Not the birth pains of a new earthly child, but rather the glorious return of Jesus to take all who endure in faith to the end to be with himself forever where there is no more pain and, only glorious eternal life.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Proper 27
Jesus talks about money a lot. So much so that one day, Mark records that Jesus sat down and watched the people putting money in the offering box. Many rich people put in large sums while a poor widow came and put in two small copper coins.
Jesus then said, "Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the offering box. For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.”
She gave all she had to live on. That makes so many of our gifts look tiny in comparison. That’s the giving God requires. And that is the giving Jesus gave. All He had to live on. No, all of His life unto death for you.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Jesus then said, "Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the offering box. For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.”
She gave all she had to live on. That makes so many of our gifts look tiny in comparison. That’s the giving God requires. And that is the giving Jesus gave. All He had to live on. No, all of His life unto death for you.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
All Saints Day
We have all seen those commercials that advertise the latest cleaning products. “Get’s out dried in stains, wine, and even blood.” Blood is something to be cleaned out, not cleaned with. But John writes in Revelation 7:
“They have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the lamb.”
The blood of the Lamb, Jesus, is the greatest detergent of all. It cleanses every filthy stain of sin from our life. Jesus delivers that cleansing blood to us through water and word, bread and wine.
For this we rejoice for those whose robes have been washed in the blood of the Jesus; who’s trust was in the true Christian faith and now rest from their labors in death.
But, lo, there breaks a yet more glorious day;
The saints triumphant rise in bright array;
The King of Glory passes on His way.
Alleluia!!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
“They have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the lamb.”
The blood of the Lamb, Jesus, is the greatest detergent of all. It cleanses every filthy stain of sin from our life. Jesus delivers that cleansing blood to us through water and word, bread and wine.
For this we rejoice for those whose robes have been washed in the blood of the Jesus; who’s trust was in the true Christian faith and now rest from their labors in death.
But, lo, there breaks a yet more glorious day;
The saints triumphant rise in bright array;
The King of Glory passes on His way.
Alleluia!!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Reformation
Reform. Change. Take something and make it different, better, more pristine. Key words for every aspect of our life.
The day labeled the Reformation is really about Jesus. Romans chapter 3 all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God and are justified freely by His grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. And later, For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from the works of the law.
You can add nothing to your salvation or your earthly holiness. Jesus has done it all.
This Reformation salvation message is still for you and me today. There is no adding to it or moving on from it and we never grow out of it. It is the one central truth of the Christian faith on which all others stand or fall. Remain in this Word of Truth forever!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
The day labeled the Reformation is really about Jesus. Romans chapter 3 all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God and are justified freely by His grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. And later, For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from the works of the law.
You can add nothing to your salvation or your earthly holiness. Jesus has done it all.
This Reformation salvation message is still for you and me today. There is no adding to it or moving on from it and we never grow out of it. It is the one central truth of the Christian faith on which all others stand or fall. Remain in this Word of Truth forever!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Proper 25
Blind Bartimaeus. The blind man who sat by the road. Not really an unusual place to sit, especially if you wanted help or someone to feel sorry for you.
This day, though, would be different than all the others. This day he would see. He heard that Jesus was coming and began to call out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me.” The cry of faith. Have mercy on me.
We too cry out, for peace from above, for salvation, for the Church, for the whole world, and for everyone who prays and worships the one true God. Lord, have mercy.
And just like Blind Bartimaeus who was given his sight at a simple word of Jesus and followed, so too we are given the mercy that comes down from Jesus in His spoken Word of forgiveness today. And we too follow. Yes, Lord have mercy.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
This day, though, would be different than all the others. This day he would see. He heard that Jesus was coming and began to call out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me.” The cry of faith. Have mercy on me.
We too cry out, for peace from above, for salvation, for the Church, for the whole world, and for everyone who prays and worships the one true God. Lord, have mercy.
And just like Blind Bartimaeus who was given his sight at a simple word of Jesus and followed, so too we are given the mercy that comes down from Jesus in His spoken Word of forgiveness today. And we too follow. Yes, Lord have mercy.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Proper 23
A rich man approached Jesus, calling Him Good Teacher, wanting to know how to get eternal life. Jesus responded to Him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone.” Jesus then proceeded to summarize all the commandments for this rich man.
The man responded, “Teacher, all these things I have kept from my youth.”
Now, how do you think Jesus responded? No one is that good. Everyone sins. Don’t you know you are a sinner.
No, Jesus looked at Him and loved him.
It is easy to overlook this because Jesus then tells the rich man to sell everything. He does this out of love, so that nothing would get in-between Jesus’ relationship with the rich man.
Jesus desires nothing to get in-between us and Him. Not possessions, fame, or pride. He makes our relationship perfect.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
The man responded, “Teacher, all these things I have kept from my youth.”
Now, how do you think Jesus responded? No one is that good. Everyone sins. Don’t you know you are a sinner.
No, Jesus looked at Him and loved him.
It is easy to overlook this because Jesus then tells the rich man to sell everything. He does this out of love, so that nothing would get in-between Jesus’ relationship with the rich man.
Jesus desires nothing to get in-between us and Him. Not possessions, fame, or pride. He makes our relationship perfect.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Proper 22
Marriage. Divorce. Alternative lifestyles. Hot topics for today’s world. Is God’s Word obsolete on these issues of today?
God’s Word is clear and as relevant today as ever. Let us let Jesus, the very Son of God, who is all knowing and only speaks the truth, quote Genesis. “But from the beginning of creation, ‘God made them male and female.’ ‘therefore a man will leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife and they shall become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”
Marriage is a pure and precious gift, one created by God, one that our sinful lives destroy. Even these are laid at the foot of Jesus’ cross for His forgiveness.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
God’s Word is clear and as relevant today as ever. Let us let Jesus, the very Son of God, who is all knowing and only speaks the truth, quote Genesis. “But from the beginning of creation, ‘God made them male and female.’ ‘therefore a man will leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife and they shall become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”
Marriage is a pure and precious gift, one created by God, one that our sinful lives destroy. Even these are laid at the foot of Jesus’ cross for His forgiveness.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Proper 21
Jesus uses very potent imagery in Mark 9. If your hand or foot causes you to sin, cut it off. If your eye causes you to sin, tear it out.
Is Jesus condoning self mutilation? Isn’t injuring ourselves sin?
No, Jesus isn’t condoning us hurting ourselves. Yet His point is very powerful. Do not let the things of this world, even your own body, lay risk to your salvation. It is better to be crippled or lame or have to squint than to spend an eternity in hell where the worm does not die and the fire is not quenched.
Our body leads us to sin when we disobey the commands of God. But more so, our body leads us to hell when it tempts us to trust in ourselves and our own good works, instead of in the sacrifice of Jesus.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Is Jesus condoning self mutilation? Isn’t injuring ourselves sin?
No, Jesus isn’t condoning us hurting ourselves. Yet His point is very powerful. Do not let the things of this world, even your own body, lay risk to your salvation. It is better to be crippled or lame or have to squint than to spend an eternity in hell where the worm does not die and the fire is not quenched.
Our body leads us to sin when we disobey the commands of God. But more so, our body leads us to hell when it tempts us to trust in ourselves and our own good works, instead of in the sacrifice of Jesus.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Proper 20
Jesus said, “If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.”
I recall how one of my teachers in grade school tried to drill this point home to us. When we would come in from recess we would have to line up at the door before we could enter the school. Occasionally he would invert the line, so that the last one was first and the first last.
While that wasn’t exactly what Jesus meant, it certainly has helped me remember this important biblical truth. Jesus was the last of all. He was the servant of all. Even though He should lead us from a high an lofty position, He came to earth to serve me by dying on the cross by a lowly and painful death. Thank you Jesus for being the last of all and the servant of all.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
I recall how one of my teachers in grade school tried to drill this point home to us. When we would come in from recess we would have to line up at the door before we could enter the school. Occasionally he would invert the line, so that the last one was first and the first last.
While that wasn’t exactly what Jesus meant, it certainly has helped me remember this important biblical truth. Jesus was the last of all. He was the servant of all. Even though He should lead us from a high an lofty position, He came to earth to serve me by dying on the cross by a lowly and painful death. Thank you Jesus for being the last of all and the servant of all.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Proper 19
A man whose son was possessed by a demon cried out to Jesus for help, “’But if you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us.’ And Jesus said to him, "'If you can'! All things are possible for one who believes." Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, "I believe; help my unbelief!’"
Indeed Lord, “I believe; help my unbelief!” I see all of the works of evil, yet I know that you have won the victory, “I believe; help my unbelief.” I know that you care for my sick child, yet healing seems so far away. “I believe; help my unbelief.” I know that you have forgiven me through the blood of your Son on the cross, yet my sin seems so great. “I believe; help my unbelief.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Indeed Lord, “I believe; help my unbelief!” I see all of the works of evil, yet I know that you have won the victory, “I believe; help my unbelief.” I know that you care for my sick child, yet healing seems so far away. “I believe; help my unbelief.” I know that you have forgiven me through the blood of your Son on the cross, yet my sin seems so great. “I believe; help my unbelief.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Proper 18
When we read of miracles in the Bible, like those performed by Jesus, we can often become discouraged. After all, who of us hasn’t had a friend, family member, or even ourselves who were sick and we prayed for a miracle, but it didn’t seem to come. Mark 7 tells of such a man who was deaf and had a speech impediment. The deaf man’s friends begged Jesus to cure the man. And with Jesus’ own fingers and a little saliva, Jesus did.
While we may long for miracles that remove every disease from this world, in this earthly life, it will never come. Jesus’ miracles of healing showed His love for our physical bodies into eternal life. His redeeming sacrifice on the cross, redeems our bodies for the resurrection day when no more disease will ever diminish our bodies again.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
While we may long for miracles that remove every disease from this world, in this earthly life, it will never come. Jesus’ miracles of healing showed His love for our physical bodies into eternal life. His redeeming sacrifice on the cross, redeems our bodies for the resurrection day when no more disease will ever diminish our bodies again.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Proper 17
Therefore take up the whole armor of God that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.
When we think of armor, we might think of the towering Medieval knight with thick metal encasing his body. That metal had one purpose only: to protect the knight from whatever kind of attack the enemy could throw at him.
So also the whole armor of God, truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, and salvation. All of these pieces are there to protect you from the old evil foe who intends to do you eternal harm.
We have one sure and certain weapon, the sword of the Spirit that is the Word of God.
The very Word of God who is Jesus Christ has won the victory over sin, death and hell.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
When we think of armor, we might think of the towering Medieval knight with thick metal encasing his body. That metal had one purpose only: to protect the knight from whatever kind of attack the enemy could throw at him.
So also the whole armor of God, truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, and salvation. All of these pieces are there to protect you from the old evil foe who intends to do you eternal harm.
We have one sure and certain weapon, the sword of the Spirit that is the Word of God.
The very Word of God who is Jesus Christ has won the victory over sin, death and hell.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Proper 16
Marriage is a profound mystery. I can easily be talking about that beautiful relationship between husband and wife. That God would bring two people together to experience life for richer or for poorer in sickness and in health forsaking all others until death parts them. Because how can we accomplish that on our own? Indeed a profound mystery.
But Paul tells us in Ephesians that it is a profound mystery, and he says that earthly marriage refer to Christ and the church.
It is so profound because we reflect in our human married relationship the love that Christ has shown the church by giving Himself up for her in death to remove all of her sin. And the church acknowledges that Jesus is her head, submitting to His will, that is knowing that He has only good things for her.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
But Paul tells us in Ephesians that it is a profound mystery, and he says that earthly marriage refer to Christ and the church.
It is so profound because we reflect in our human married relationship the love that Christ has shown the church by giving Himself up for her in death to remove all of her sin. And the church acknowledges that Jesus is her head, submitting to His will, that is knowing that He has only good things for her.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Proper 15
Many are afraid of the dark. Darkness has this natural sense of uncertainty. That is why darkness is often used in movies as a way to communicate evil.
But often more fearful is that small amount of light that is cast from a nightlight or from a half moon that makes things eerie. The small amount of light begins to expose things and it creates shadows of the things that are real.
The light of God’s Word exposes the darkness that is in us, that is our sin. It exposes it for what it really is, that is worthy of eternal death.
Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you! The light that is Christ shines on you dispelling the darkness of your sin and bringing you into eternal life.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
But often more fearful is that small amount of light that is cast from a nightlight or from a half moon that makes things eerie. The small amount of light begins to expose things and it creates shadows of the things that are real.
The light of God’s Word exposes the darkness that is in us, that is our sin. It exposes it for what it really is, that is worthy of eternal death.
Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you! The light that is Christ shines on you dispelling the darkness of your sin and bringing you into eternal life.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Proper 14
God’s Word says, “And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”
Sounds easier to say, then do, doesn’t it? I can’t do that on my own. It sounds like the ideal world. And it is.
Did you notice how it is that you are able to do such things? “You were sealed for the day of redemption” with the Holy Spirit.
It is that beautiful gift of the Holy Spirit in baptism that seals you, forgiving you, to live this redeemed, forgiven and forgiving life. God’s work of Jesus, in and through you.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Sounds easier to say, then do, doesn’t it? I can’t do that on my own. It sounds like the ideal world. And it is.
Did you notice how it is that you are able to do such things? “You were sealed for the day of redemption” with the Holy Spirit.
It is that beautiful gift of the Holy Spirit in baptism that seals you, forgiving you, to live this redeemed, forgiven and forgiving life. God’s work of Jesus, in and through you.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Proper 13
It is a statement that is made to church leaders the country over: “I read my Bible, I pray, I believe in Jesus. That is enough for me.
Paul tells us in Ephesians chapter 4 why the body of Christ, that is His church, is so deftly important for us.
“so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ”
Christ’s body, His church builds us up with the gift of forgiveness, life and salvation in Jesus so that we may withstand the changes and chances and deceitfulness of this world.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Paul tells us in Ephesians chapter 4 why the body of Christ, that is His church, is so deftly important for us.
“so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ”
Christ’s body, His church builds us up with the gift of forgiveness, life and salvation in Jesus so that we may withstand the changes and chances and deceitfulness of this world.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Proper 12
For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.
Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen..
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen..
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Proper 11
Have you ever entered a room, maybe a convention or a party and took a deep breath knowing that you were a stranger and so were they. Strangers in a strange land.
Now contrast that with walking into a room full of your family and friends.
Quite a different feeling. A different reality.
God’s Word tells us that when Jesus went to the cross to die and take away our sin, we are now no longer strangers in a strange land. Instead we are members of the household of God.
God’s household is a household of peace, comfort and joy. Its foundation is that of the apostles and prophets with Christ Jesus, as the cornerstone. It is a household of certainty, of knowledge in the truth, and an assurance of salvation.
Christ’s church, your household here on earth.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Now contrast that with walking into a room full of your family and friends.
Quite a different feeling. A different reality.
God’s Word tells us that when Jesus went to the cross to die and take away our sin, we are now no longer strangers in a strange land. Instead we are members of the household of God.
God’s household is a household of peace, comfort and joy. Its foundation is that of the apostles and prophets with Christ Jesus, as the cornerstone. It is a household of certainty, of knowledge in the truth, and an assurance of salvation.
Christ’s church, your household here on earth.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Proper 10
Paul writes to the Ephesians:
In [Jesus] we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.
Heaven and earth seem about as far apart as things can get. Things in heaven are holy. Things on earth are dirty and corrupt. Yet God’s Holy Word them united. United in the person and work of Jesus. The gifts of Jesus’ all paying sacrifice make God’s will known to you: You are united to the holiness of heaven itself in the cross of Jesus.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
In [Jesus] we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.
Heaven and earth seem about as far apart as things can get. Things in heaven are holy. Things on earth are dirty and corrupt. Yet God’s Holy Word them united. United in the person and work of Jesus. The gifts of Jesus’ all paying sacrifice make God’s will known to you: You are united to the holiness of heaven itself in the cross of Jesus.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
July 4
Fireworks! Explosions! Celebration! Grilling out! Family and Friends! Party!!!
Let freedom ring!
We pour much of our summer energy into celebrating this all important day for our country. Independence from someone over a distant sea ruling our land. Waving flags and banners, parades and carnivals. The victory that gives freedom.
And then we go back to our daily lives feeling as if freedom from ourselves and our addictions and bad habits and behaviors seems far away. Is the freedom given in this country enough?
No, it isn’t. But there is a greater freedom.
Paul says to the Romans “We know that our old self was crucified with (Jesus) in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. [For one who has died has been set free from sin. Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him.”]
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Let freedom ring!
We pour much of our summer energy into celebrating this all important day for our country. Independence from someone over a distant sea ruling our land. Waving flags and banners, parades and carnivals. The victory that gives freedom.
And then we go back to our daily lives feeling as if freedom from ourselves and our addictions and bad habits and behaviors seems far away. Is the freedom given in this country enough?
No, it isn’t. But there is a greater freedom.
Paul says to the Romans “We know that our old self was crucified with (Jesus) in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. [For one who has died has been set free from sin. Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him.”]
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Proper 8
The Gospel of Mark tells of two contrasting women: The first, Jairus’ daughter; young, yet near death and the second, a woman who had an ever increasing bleeding problem for twelve years. This woman trusted that she only had to touch Jesus’ cloak and she would be healed; something the doctors couldn’t accomplish over such a long period of time.
While Jesus had stopped and commended the faith of this woman, the most tragic news came. Jairus’ daughter had died.
Waiting on Jesus’ can be difficult. Sometimes it seems as if Jesus may never come or that He is already too late. But these two women of faith bear witness that Jesus always works in His time and in His chosen matter. And that always promises eternal health and eternal life.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn
While Jesus had stopped and commended the faith of this woman, the most tragic news came. Jairus’ daughter had died.
Waiting on Jesus’ can be difficult. Sometimes it seems as if Jesus may never come or that He is already too late. But these two women of faith bear witness that Jesus always works in His time and in His chosen matter. And that always promises eternal health and eternal life.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn
Proper 7
Jesus asleep in the stern of the boat. Up the winds did howl and the waves did break. The boat was tossed to and fro. But there slept Jesus. Seemingly oblivious to the precarious position He and the apostles were in. Wake up Jesus, don’t you know that we’re all going to die?
Now awake because of his disciples’ fear, Jesus utters only small words, “Peace.” “Be Still.”
Even the wind and waves obey even the smallest Words of Jesus.
And yes, even the winds of change and the storms of this life, whether created by your own sinfulness or those which are out of your control obey the gentle words of Jesus. “Peace.” “Be Still’ Even though there may be moments that it may seem that our Savior is sleeping in our lives, know that these words are for you, “Peace.” “Be Still.”
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn
Now awake because of his disciples’ fear, Jesus utters only small words, “Peace.” “Be Still.”
Even the wind and waves obey even the smallest Words of Jesus.
And yes, even the winds of change and the storms of this life, whether created by your own sinfulness or those which are out of your control obey the gentle words of Jesus. “Peace.” “Be Still’ Even though there may be moments that it may seem that our Savior is sleeping in our lives, know that these words are for you, “Peace.” “Be Still.”
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn
Monday, June 15, 2009
Series B Proper 6
And Jesus said, "The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground. He sleeps and rises night and day, and the seed sprouts and grows; he knows not how. The earth produces by itself, first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. But when the grain is ripe, at once he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come.
This Jesus spoke to tell about the power of the Word of God. The Word is scattered in the world. Over time we see the fruit of this scattered Word. It bears a harvest of salvation, even though oftentimes we know not how or when.
Truly God’s gracious action that by the power of the Holy Spirit that He produces saving faith by His scattered Word
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn
This Jesus spoke to tell about the power of the Word of God. The Word is scattered in the world. Over time we see the fruit of this scattered Word. It bears a harvest of salvation, even though oftentimes we know not how or when.
Truly God’s gracious action that by the power of the Holy Spirit that He produces saving faith by His scattered Word
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn
Holy Trinity
The teenagers push forward to see those singers or athletes whom they consider great. Autograph seekers make their best effort to gather signatures of human greatness all the time.
It’s common to hear the expression among Christians, often in jest “when I get to heaven I’m going to go up to God and ask….” Isaiah has such an opportunity in Isaiah 6. And his only possible response is, “I am ruined.” For I am a man of unclean lips, He isn’t talking about having a foul mouth. Rather this is his admitting that he is sinful
God should have struck Isaiah dead. But the seraphim took a coal from the place where offerings were burned in the temple, and touched to Isaiah's lips, saying "Your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for." And so is yours, by the blood of Jesus.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn
It’s common to hear the expression among Christians, often in jest “when I get to heaven I’m going to go up to God and ask….” Isaiah has such an opportunity in Isaiah 6. And his only possible response is, “I am ruined.” For I am a man of unclean lips, He isn’t talking about having a foul mouth. Rather this is his admitting that he is sinful
God should have struck Isaiah dead. But the seraphim took a coal from the place where offerings were burned in the temple, and touched to Isaiah's lips, saying "Your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for." And so is yours, by the blood of Jesus.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Ascension
Today is the celebration of the Ascension of Jesus into heaven.
After all, isn’t that the appropriate place for him? Jesus’ tour of duty on Battlefield Earth is done. The General of the Army has declared victory and now he returns to His throne in heaven through the clouds to sit back and look at what a good job he has done?
Actually, it is quite the opposite. Indeed, Jesus has gone back to where He came, the Father’s right hand of authority and power. The God/Man now reigns on the throne in His earthly body.
That is good news for you and me. He reigns as Your King of Kings, continuing to prepare a place for you in His kingdom. Jesus still keeps His promise to never leave us or forsake us.
All who believe in Him long to see Him in His heavenly glory. Yet now we must see Him hidden in Word and Water, Bread and Wine.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn
After all, isn’t that the appropriate place for him? Jesus’ tour of duty on Battlefield Earth is done. The General of the Army has declared victory and now he returns to His throne in heaven through the clouds to sit back and look at what a good job he has done?
Actually, it is quite the opposite. Indeed, Jesus has gone back to where He came, the Father’s right hand of authority and power. The God/Man now reigns on the throne in His earthly body.
That is good news for you and me. He reigns as Your King of Kings, continuing to prepare a place for you in His kingdom. Jesus still keeps His promise to never leave us or forsake us.
All who believe in Him long to see Him in His heavenly glory. Yet now we must see Him hidden in Word and Water, Bread and Wine.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Easter 6
As the school year draws to a close and graduations are here, there are so many graduates who are wondering: what will happen to my friends? Will we remain friends forever? Will we stay in touch through college? What about after I’m married and have kids and a job?
Friends are indeed precious to us. Our Savior knows the importance of friends. He says in John 15: “I know longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you.”
Friends share everything with each other. And so has our best friend, Jesus. What has He shared? That He has chosen us to be the recipients of His salvation. That’s what it means to be Jesus’ friend.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn
Friends are indeed precious to us. Our Savior knows the importance of friends. He says in John 15: “I know longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you.”
Friends share everything with each other. And so has our best friend, Jesus. What has He shared? That He has chosen us to be the recipients of His salvation. That’s what it means to be Jesus’ friend.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn
Easter 5
There is the twig that lays on the ground under the tree. Is it alive or dead?
If it is not dead already it will soon be dead because it is no longer attached to the trunk. The life giving and sustaining sap cannot get to the twig when it is laying on the ground. Should we expect any apples from that twig? Of course not.
Jesus own words tell us about that twig and the fruit in John 15. His words say, “stay connected to the trunk.” Or Jesus uses the image of the vine and the branches. “Stay connected to the vine.”
Jesus is even gracious enough to tell us how: “If you abide in me and my words abide in you.” That’s it! Stay in Jesus’ word. Which word? His resurrected Word. His forgiveness is for you word.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn
If it is not dead already it will soon be dead because it is no longer attached to the trunk. The life giving and sustaining sap cannot get to the twig when it is laying on the ground. Should we expect any apples from that twig? Of course not.
Jesus own words tell us about that twig and the fruit in John 15. His words say, “stay connected to the trunk.” Or Jesus uses the image of the vine and the branches. “Stay connected to the vine.”
Jesus is even gracious enough to tell us how: “If you abide in me and my words abide in you.” That’s it! Stay in Jesus’ word. Which word? His resurrected Word. His forgiveness is for you word.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn
Easter 4
The image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd brings many harmony and peace. There He stands, either a sheep draped over His shoulders or cuddled in His bosom. A gentle smile washing over His face as Jesus gazes lovingly into the tender ewe lamb’s eyes.
While that image is indeed true. It is not the only image of Jesus’ the Good Shepherd. John 10:11, Jesus says, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”
This good shepherd does more than cuddle and snuggle. This good shepherd goes to battle against the wolves of sin, death, and the devil and dies His life for His sheep.
But not only does He die, but He also has the authority take up His life in His resurrection so that He is our living and active Good Shepherd eternally.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn
While that image is indeed true. It is not the only image of Jesus’ the Good Shepherd. John 10:11, Jesus says, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”
This good shepherd does more than cuddle and snuggle. This good shepherd goes to battle against the wolves of sin, death, and the devil and dies His life for His sheep.
But not only does He die, but He also has the authority take up His life in His resurrection so that He is our living and active Good Shepherd eternally.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Easter 3
Have you ever had all the facts laid out for you, yet it still didn’t make any sense? When I was a linear algebra student oftentimes all the formulas were on the page, but the problem just didn’t make any sense. It would take the teacher to reveal it to me.
As the Emmaus road disciples walked with a man whom they didn’t recognize, they had all the facts laid out. We had hope Jesus would be the Messiah. He said he would be put to death and He was crucified. He said He would come back from the dead three days later, and the women at the tomb said it was empty.
They had all the facts, but the Truth hadn’t been revealed to them, that is until Jesus opened their eyes and gave Himself to them in the breaking of bread.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn
As the Emmaus road disciples walked with a man whom they didn’t recognize, they had all the facts laid out. We had hope Jesus would be the Messiah. He said he would be put to death and He was crucified. He said He would come back from the dead three days later, and the women at the tomb said it was empty.
They had all the facts, but the Truth hadn’t been revealed to them, that is until Jesus opened their eyes and gave Himself to them in the breaking of bread.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn
Friday, April 17, 2009
Easter 2
Seeing is believing. To see removes any doubt and makes certain any belief. Thomas heard the good news of a bodily resurrected Jesus that first Easter Eve but just couldn’t believe it without seeing it. So Jesus showed Thomas.
John writes, “Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but THESE ARE WRITTEN so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that BY BELIEVING YOU may have life in His name.”
Now we have the eyes of faith that see even without seeing physically. The eyes of faith make it certain that “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” We are truly blessed with a new life in Jesus; life in His Name.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn
John writes, “Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but THESE ARE WRITTEN so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that BY BELIEVING YOU may have life in His name.”
Now we have the eyes of faith that see even without seeing physically. The eyes of faith make it certain that “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” We are truly blessed with a new life in Jesus; life in His Name.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn
The Resurrection of Our Lord
Alleluia! Jesus is Risen! He is Risen Indeed! Alleluia!
There have been a lot of men who have died over six thousand or so years. The cross has been the instrument of death for many of them. Some men have even claimed to be a savior of the world.
Only one man has risen bodily from the dead and proved it by showing himself to over 500 people. That man is Jesus, God’s only begotten Son. Jesus rose physically from the dead because He cares about your physical body both now and into eternity. His physical resurrection is the victory march over the effects of sin, disease, infection, cancer, death. His physical resurrection is His promise to you that these things will not plague our bodies into eternity.
Alleluia! Jesus is Risen! He is Risen Indeed! Alleluia!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn
There have been a lot of men who have died over six thousand or so years. The cross has been the instrument of death for many of them. Some men have even claimed to be a savior of the world.
Only one man has risen bodily from the dead and proved it by showing himself to over 500 people. That man is Jesus, God’s only begotten Son. Jesus rose physically from the dead because He cares about your physical body both now and into eternity. His physical resurrection is the victory march over the effects of sin, disease, infection, cancer, death. His physical resurrection is His promise to you that these things will not plague our bodies into eternity.
Alleluia! Jesus is Risen! He is Risen Indeed! Alleluia!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn
Maundy Thursday
After one last meal where Jesus gives his own body and blood as food forever, they process out so that Jesus can be captured.
It seems foolish. What self respecting Savior would willingly die on a cross?
And besides, can any one man die for the punishment of the entire world’s guilt?
Only God is big enough to make that kind of sacrifice. But then, how weak must God be?
The Word of the Cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”
He was weak so that we would be strong. Jesus’ death, God’s death, is our life.
To those who believe, Jesus, the power of God who forgives their sins and raises them up to everlasting life, continues to give himself as eternal food under bread and wine for us now.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn
It seems foolish. What self respecting Savior would willingly die on a cross?
And besides, can any one man die for the punishment of the entire world’s guilt?
Only God is big enough to make that kind of sacrifice. But then, how weak must God be?
The Word of the Cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”
He was weak so that we would be strong. Jesus’ death, God’s death, is our life.
To those who believe, Jesus, the power of God who forgives their sins and raises them up to everlasting life, continues to give himself as eternal food under bread and wine for us now.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Palm Sunday
It is time for a parade! The most important dignitary of the whole wide world is coming to your town. Break out the banners! Strike up the band! Don’t forget the streamers. He’s right around the corner. Wait, he doesn’t seem to be all giddy with excitement. Oh he seems to be trying to smile, but are those tears in His eyes? Hmm… Oh it’s time to shout… Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!
Yes indeed, Blessed is He who continues to come to us in the name of the Lord through, Word and Water, Bread and Wine. That first Palm Sunday to enter to pay for the sin of the World. Now He comes to bring that forgiveness to you. Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord, Jesus our Savior King!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Yes indeed, Blessed is He who continues to come to us in the name of the Lord through, Word and Water, Bread and Wine. That first Palm Sunday to enter to pay for the sin of the World. Now He comes to bring that forgiveness to you. Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord, Jesus our Savior King!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Lent 5
“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and go give his life as a ransom for many.”
Not what you’d expect when God comes to earth is it? God doesn’t need your good deeds. He needs to serve you. Hard to let the most important man in human history serve you? That’s ok, you’re not alone. We’ve been trying to help God out since time began.
Realize this. He doesn’t need your help. But you need His. So He sent His Son, Jesus, to help you out to serve you by serving up His Son, very God himself, on the cross. It is the greatest act of service ever that this God/Man would give His life for you. It was the dirtiest job that only Jesus could do. And He did it for the whole world. Even you.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Not what you’d expect when God comes to earth is it? God doesn’t need your good deeds. He needs to serve you. Hard to let the most important man in human history serve you? That’s ok, you’re not alone. We’ve been trying to help God out since time began.
Realize this. He doesn’t need your help. But you need His. So He sent His Son, Jesus, to help you out to serve you by serving up His Son, very God himself, on the cross. It is the greatest act of service ever that this God/Man would give His life for you. It was the dirtiest job that only Jesus could do. And He did it for the whole world. Even you.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Lent 4
Grumbling and complaining over what they had and that they could have it better, so were the people of God. And with this unbelief came punishment, in the form of poisonous snakes and many died.
The people recognized their sin against God.
And God commanded Moses, “Make a fiery serpent and set it on a pole, and whoever is bitten, when he sees it, shall live.” Moses did it, and “if a serpent bit anyone, he would look at the bronze serpent and live.”
Jesus said, “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.”
Recognize your sin and your grumbling against God. Look to Jesus, the one who was lifted up on the cross, believe that His cross takes away your sin and live eternally!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
The people recognized their sin against God.
And God commanded Moses, “Make a fiery serpent and set it on a pole, and whoever is bitten, when he sees it, shall live.” Moses did it, and “if a serpent bit anyone, he would look at the bronze serpent and live.”
Jesus said, “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.”
Recognize your sin and your grumbling against God. Look to Jesus, the one who was lifted up on the cross, believe that His cross takes away your sin and live eternally!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Lent 3
Jesus said, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up." The Jews then said, "It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will you raise it up in three days?" But he was speaking about the temple of his body. When therefore he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this, and they believed the Scripture and the word that Jesus had spoken.
Yes, that is the message of Lent from John 2. Yes, destroy the temple of Jesus’ body that is heavy laden with your sin. Yes, destroy it there on the cross. Gone with that glorious destruction is your sin.
See His glorious resurrection just as Jesus promised? He has raised it spotless, clean, new. Believe the good news that your sins are removed from you forever.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Yes, that is the message of Lent from John 2. Yes, destroy the temple of Jesus’ body that is heavy laden with your sin. Yes, destroy it there on the cross. Gone with that glorious destruction is your sin.
See His glorious resurrection just as Jesus promised? He has raised it spotless, clean, new. Believe the good news that your sins are removed from you forever.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Lent 2
Jesus looked at His disciples and asked “Who do you say that I am?”
You are the Christ! Peter boldly proclaims. Good answer Peter, now let me tell you what that means. That means I’m going suffer at the hands of the people you normally look up to. I am going to be killed then three days later I’m going to rise again.
No way, Jesus! Never, we won’t let this happen to you. After all, you are the Christ!
Get behind me Satan, says Jesus.
Anyone who doesn’t want Jesus to go to the cross, to be a suffering savior, is wanting the things of Satan not the things of God.
Jesus had to be the suffering, dying, and rising Messiah so that you can have eternal life by the forgiveness of sins.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
You are the Christ! Peter boldly proclaims. Good answer Peter, now let me tell you what that means. That means I’m going suffer at the hands of the people you normally look up to. I am going to be killed then three days later I’m going to rise again.
No way, Jesus! Never, we won’t let this happen to you. After all, you are the Christ!
Get behind me Satan, says Jesus.
Anyone who doesn’t want Jesus to go to the cross, to be a suffering savior, is wanting the things of Satan not the things of God.
Jesus had to be the suffering, dying, and rising Messiah so that you can have eternal life by the forgiveness of sins.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Lent 1
“The devil made me do it!” cries the child, trying to convince his parents why he shouldn’t be punished. Parents quickly see through that charade knowing that the only thing that made their child disobey was their own selfish desire to do what they should not do.
Temptations to do what we should not do abound. They come in forms as subtle as TV commercials and as blatant as friends saying, “c’mon give it a try.” Jesus as He walked this earth was not exempt from temptations. And He even had a batch handed out by the Devil himself.
Jesus overcame all of these temptations by using God’s Holy Word to live a spotless life in our place. When we succumb to our own temptations, cling to God’s Holy Word of promise of forgiveness of sins in Jesus death and resurrection.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Temptations to do what we should not do abound. They come in forms as subtle as TV commercials and as blatant as friends saying, “c’mon give it a try.” Jesus as He walked this earth was not exempt from temptations. And He even had a batch handed out by the Devil himself.
Jesus overcame all of these temptations by using God’s Holy Word to live a spotless life in our place. When we succumb to our own temptations, cling to God’s Holy Word of promise of forgiveness of sins in Jesus death and resurrection.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, Nebraska. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Ash Wednesday
Even though we are in the midst of cold temperatures and an occasional snow shower, we are coming upon a dusty season. No, I’m not predicting another dry spring, although I could be, since God cursed the ground when Adam and Eve first sinned thus meaning that we would have to labor and toil all our days. Instead, though, I am talking about the dusty season of Lent, beginning with Ash Wednesday.
God punished our first parents Adam and Eve in Genesis 3:19, “for you are dust and to dust you shall return.” We also live under that same punishment. Ash Wednesday then is a reminder of our mortality caused by our first parent’s sin and yes even our own sin. “Earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust.” You hear this at nearly every Committal Service just before the body is lowered into the ground. Death.
God sent His Son, Jesus into the dust of our human flesh so that the dusty mortal’s curse would be placed on Him. Jesus came into our flesh that dies and returns to dust. He surely did die our death on the cross. As we begin this season of Lent, a time of our repentance from sin and seeing anew the suffering that our Lord bore for us, it is good to see our mortality in light of our Suffering Savior. Our mortality is swallowed up with His immortality won by Jesus sacrifice on the cross. We look forward to the victory of immortality won as Christ’s tomb burst open, empty on Easter morn, showing the entire world that our sinful mortality has been purchased with the blood of Jesus.
God punished our first parents Adam and Eve in Genesis 3:19, “for you are dust and to dust you shall return.” We also live under that same punishment. Ash Wednesday then is a reminder of our mortality caused by our first parent’s sin and yes even our own sin. “Earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust.” You hear this at nearly every Committal Service just before the body is lowered into the ground. Death.
God sent His Son, Jesus into the dust of our human flesh so that the dusty mortal’s curse would be placed on Him. Jesus came into our flesh that dies and returns to dust. He surely did die our death on the cross. As we begin this season of Lent, a time of our repentance from sin and seeing anew the suffering that our Lord bore for us, it is good to see our mortality in light of our Suffering Savior. Our mortality is swallowed up with His immortality won by Jesus sacrifice on the cross. We look forward to the victory of immortality won as Christ’s tomb burst open, empty on Easter morn, showing the entire world that our sinful mortality has been purchased with the blood of Jesus.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Transfiguration of Our Lord
One more happy time. One more glimpse of glory. One more precious moment to make a memory last forever. These are things that people wish for when they are in the midst of sorrow and suffering. One last hurrah.
In the church calendar we get one more high point before going into the somber season of Lent. We see Jesus standing on a mountain with his clothes as white as light hearing a booming voice from the Father, “This is my beloved Son, with Him I am well pleased. Listen to Him.”
Why the glimpse of glory before the slew of sadness? So that we, who live most of our lives in the valley may know that we can listen to the Word of God and trust that He ascended the mountain of the cross for you and me.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
In the church calendar we get one more high point before going into the somber season of Lent. We see Jesus standing on a mountain with his clothes as white as light hearing a booming voice from the Father, “This is my beloved Son, with Him I am well pleased. Listen to Him.”
Why the glimpse of glory before the slew of sadness? So that we, who live most of our lives in the valley may know that we can listen to the Word of God and trust that He ascended the mountain of the cross for you and me.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Epiphany 6
Simply wash in some dirty water and be clean? Naaman thought it sounded too simply ridiculous to do, as we hear in 2 Kings 5. But he was willing to do so much more, so his servants challenged him to do what was lesser, to simply wash in the small, dirty, Jordan River.
And he did. And the Word of the Lord that came through Elisha did as it said. Naaman was cleansed. The power of God through such humble means.
How it is with us. We look for the great and the stupendous to do so that we may be cleansed and right with God. But the humble means of Jesus are enough. His Word proclaims in 1 Peter 3, “Baptism now saves you.” And it does. Simple water. Simple Words. Eternal results for you.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
And he did. And the Word of the Lord that came through Elisha did as it said. Naaman was cleansed. The power of God through such humble means.
How it is with us. We look for the great and the stupendous to do so that we may be cleansed and right with God. But the humble means of Jesus are enough. His Word proclaims in 1 Peter 3, “Baptism now saves you.” And it does. Simple water. Simple Words. Eternal results for you.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Epiphany 5
It can be tiring to always be wanted. Moms and dads of young children know this feeling full well. Whether its to show them their latest finger painting or needing help going to the bathroom, mom or dad must always be informed. And let’s not forget when they can’t actually accomplish something on their own, then mom or dad is needed immediately.
How it was for Jesus. Every town He went to, every home He entered, there was a need. Fevers, diseases, demons. A never ending job. A task to great for mere man. Even Jesus the God/man needed time to pray.
Therein lies our lesson. All of the tasks that Jesus had to accomplish were way too much for any mere man. A task to big for us. All that He accomplished He did so that we would know what eternity is like with Him.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
How it was for Jesus. Every town He went to, every home He entered, there was a need. Fevers, diseases, demons. A never ending job. A task to great for mere man. Even Jesus the God/man needed time to pray.
Therein lies our lesson. All of the tasks that Jesus had to accomplish were way too much for any mere man. A task to big for us. All that He accomplished He did so that we would know what eternity is like with Him.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Apologies
I apologize for there not being an updated Seeds of Faith. I will make no excuses. Please accept this backlog of Seeds as a token of my appreciation for reading.
Epiphany 4
“[The evil spirit said,] I know who you are, the Holy One of God.” But Jesus rebuked him saying, "Be silent, and come out of him!" And the unclean spirit, convulsing him and crying out with a loud voice, came out of him. And they were all amazed, so that they questioned among themselves, saying, "What is this? A new teaching with authority! He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him."
Here we see the glory of God himself in the Gospel of Mark 1:25. No mere man commands such authority that even the demons recognize him as God. No mere man commands such authority that even the demons obey. No mere man commands such authority as to forgive your sins. This is God revealed to us in Jesus!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Here we see the glory of God himself in the Gospel of Mark 1:25. No mere man commands such authority that even the demons recognize him as God. No mere man commands such authority that even the demons obey. No mere man commands such authority as to forgive your sins. This is God revealed to us in Jesus!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Epiphany 3
How Jonah ever thought he would escape, we may never know. But then again, it was only words from heaven that told him to go to a wicked and sinful city.
How Jonah ever thought he would escape, we may never know. But then again, it was only a big fish that swallowed him to safety after he had been thrown overboard into the raging sea.
How those fishermen ever thought they would escape, we may never know. But then again, it was only the Son of God calling them to be fishers of men, that is to share the saving message of Jesus’ death and resurrection to the entire world.
Why would we want to escape from the grace of Jesus, who has completed salvation for the entire world and continues to call us through His Word proclaimed into our lives?
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
How Jonah ever thought he would escape, we may never know. But then again, it was only a big fish that swallowed him to safety after he had been thrown overboard into the raging sea.
How those fishermen ever thought they would escape, we may never know. But then again, it was only the Son of God calling them to be fishers of men, that is to share the saving message of Jesus’ death and resurrection to the entire world.
Why would we want to escape from the grace of Jesus, who has completed salvation for the entire world and continues to call us through His Word proclaimed into our lives?
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Epiphany 2
What is the dominant image of Jesus during the Christmas season? Of course, it’s a baby in a manger. Infant human flesh smiling on shepherds and wise men.
We still see human flesh smiling on humanity in these weeks after Christmas, called the season of Epiphany. But now we see something so much more.
We see the divinity of Jesus showing through.
The divinity that was there from the foundation of the world.
The divinity that was present when Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit.
How do we see it? At Jesus’ baptism when the Father proclaims, “This is my beloved Son, with you I am well pleased.” And the Holy Spirit descends on Jesus.
We see Jesus’ divinity when He sees Nathanael sitting under a fig tree who’s branches hide him. The God/man Jesus is being revealed for all to see.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
We still see human flesh smiling on humanity in these weeks after Christmas, called the season of Epiphany. But now we see something so much more.
We see the divinity of Jesus showing through.
The divinity that was there from the foundation of the world.
The divinity that was present when Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit.
How do we see it? At Jesus’ baptism when the Father proclaims, “This is my beloved Son, with you I am well pleased.” And the Holy Spirit descends on Jesus.
We see Jesus’ divinity when He sees Nathanael sitting under a fig tree who’s branches hide him. The God/man Jesus is being revealed for all to see.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
New Years
Happy New Year!
So when will the resolutions start? After all the Christmas cookies are out of the cookie jar? Or maybe when all the family goes home? Or is your response… “what resolutions?”
The New Year has been a popular time to try and change our own lives. Resolutions come and go and few actually become permanent
So in this time of out with the old and in with the new, it might be a good time to ponder a change that is good and does happen without any effort on our part. “But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons.”
Being a forgiven child of God is a great way to begin the new year!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
So when will the resolutions start? After all the Christmas cookies are out of the cookie jar? Or maybe when all the family goes home? Or is your response… “what resolutions?”
The New Year has been a popular time to try and change our own lives. Resolutions come and go and few actually become permanent
So in this time of out with the old and in with the new, it might be a good time to ponder a change that is good and does happen without any effort on our part. “But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons.”
Being a forgiven child of God is a great way to begin the new year!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Christmas 1
Bells are ringing, gifts are being given, family and friends are celebrating, songs are being sung. It is a joyous occasion.
Really, it is, despite whatever disagreements you’ve had over what to get the kids or who’s family to spend more time with.
What? You still don’t believe me? I’m sorry to hear that. I guess you’ll have to try harder next year.
Don’t want to wait until next year? Tired of the Christmas frustrations? Then stop what you are doing for a moment and hear God’s Word on the topic. “The Virgin will bear a Son and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”
That infant in diapers in the manger is God himself. He is bigger than any disagreements you will have this Christmas, for He has taken away the world’s sin.
Joy to the earth, the Savior reigns!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Really, it is, despite whatever disagreements you’ve had over what to get the kids or who’s family to spend more time with.
What? You still don’t believe me? I’m sorry to hear that. I guess you’ll have to try harder next year.
Don’t want to wait until next year? Tired of the Christmas frustrations? Then stop what you are doing for a moment and hear God’s Word on the topic. “The Virgin will bear a Son and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”
That infant in diapers in the manger is God himself. He is bigger than any disagreements you will have this Christmas, for He has taken away the world’s sin.
Joy to the earth, the Savior reigns!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Christmas Day
Merry Christmas! The angels sang! The shepherds saw. Mary pondered. The shepherds rejoiced and told all that they saw and heard.
There will be Santa and mistletoe and cartoons filled with gleeful characters that bring a nostalgic smile to faces all the while families sit around decorated trees tearing into presents.
These things are all good. Enjoy the moments that God has provided for you this season.
But don’t miss the opportunity to receive the greatest gift of all; God in human flesh. Receive Jesus this season in His Holy Word. See Jesus, just as the shepherds saw him that first Christmas night, Jesus, in body and blood, residing in His Word for you.
Be gathered together by the Gospel call, like a child calling the family around the tree to open presents. Only this is the greatest present of all, Jesus bestowing His forgiveness on you.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
There will be Santa and mistletoe and cartoons filled with gleeful characters that bring a nostalgic smile to faces all the while families sit around decorated trees tearing into presents.
These things are all good. Enjoy the moments that God has provided for you this season.
But don’t miss the opportunity to receive the greatest gift of all; God in human flesh. Receive Jesus this season in His Holy Word. See Jesus, just as the shepherds saw him that first Christmas night, Jesus, in body and blood, residing in His Word for you.
Be gathered together by the Gospel call, like a child calling the family around the tree to open presents. Only this is the greatest present of all, Jesus bestowing His forgiveness on you.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Advent 4
In the hustle and bustle of the season, where family and friends enter our lives to join our celebrations, take time to ponder another family who made a journey to their home town. There amidst a normally sleepy little town, now bustling with weary travelers for a census, came a normal looking family.
But this normal looking family awaited an event that was foretold from the fall of man into sin; the birth of the Savior of the world. The one who would destroy sin and death forever. The one who would reunite our heavenly Father with His children eternally.
They would call Him Jesus, just as the angel said, for He would save the world from their sins. Come to reside in human flesh. God and man inseparably united together. Come to reside with you.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
But this normal looking family awaited an event that was foretold from the fall of man into sin; the birth of the Savior of the world. The one who would destroy sin and death forever. The one who would reunite our heavenly Father with His children eternally.
They would call Him Jesus, just as the angel said, for He would save the world from their sins. Come to reside in human flesh. God and man inseparably united together. Come to reside with you.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Advent 3
Every celebration requires the right attire. Do you have your Christmas clothes yet? The time is coming quickly. In these weeks leading up to Christmas, it is good to think about what you will wear to the celebration that will last forever.
The prophet Isaiah speaks of it this way:
…for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation;
he has covered me with the robe of righteousness,
as a bridegroom decks himself like a priest with a beautiful headdress,
and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.
On our own we are clothed with the sin stained clothes of a beggar. But that is not good enough for our God. Instead, this Christmas he has clothed us with the baptismal robes of righteousness given to us by a babe in Bethlehem by the name of Jesus.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
The prophet Isaiah speaks of it this way:
…for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation;
he has covered me with the robe of righteousness,
as a bridegroom decks himself like a priest with a beautiful headdress,
and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.
On our own we are clothed with the sin stained clothes of a beggar. But that is not good enough for our God. Instead, this Christmas he has clothed us with the baptismal robes of righteousness given to us by a babe in Bethlehem by the name of Jesus.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Advent 2
What brought you comfort as a child? Was it your special blanket? Your favorite doll? Retreating to your room? Was it mom’s gentle voice or dad’s strong arms? Why did you need comfort? Was it because you had a fight or you were afraid of what might hurt you?
The prophet Isaiah cried out, “Comfort, comfort, my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem and cry to her that her warfare is ended, that her iniquity is pardoned….”
There is nothing more comforting than the gentle words of our Heavenly Father enfleshed in the person of His Son, Jesus. In His flesh is the forgiveness of all of our sins. This is true comfort. The end to the war between our sinful flesh and our perfect God is found in a babe in Bethlehem. Comfort that lasts into eternity!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
The prophet Isaiah cried out, “Comfort, comfort, my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem and cry to her that her warfare is ended, that her iniquity is pardoned….”
There is nothing more comforting than the gentle words of our Heavenly Father enfleshed in the person of His Son, Jesus. In His flesh is the forgiveness of all of our sins. This is true comfort. The end to the war between our sinful flesh and our perfect God is found in a babe in Bethlehem. Comfort that lasts into eternity!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Thanksgiving
Stop! Before you carve that turkey. Put that fork down! Fold your hands and bow your heads. On this day of National Thanksgiving it is easy to be thankful for the food on the plate and the family that is there to share it with you. But before you say grace and move on, hear God’s Word through Paul to Timothy:
“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people… This is good and pleasing in the sight of God our Savior.”
Yes that is right, all people. Those government officials that you want to vote out of office. That schoolyard bully. Our nations’ enemies. Pray for them. This is good and pleasing to our Savior Jesus for He gave His life for them as well. Give thanks for that good and perfect gift!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people… This is good and pleasing in the sight of God our Savior.”
Yes that is right, all people. Those government officials that you want to vote out of office. That schoolyard bully. Our nations’ enemies. Pray for them. This is good and pleasing to our Savior Jesus for He gave His life for them as well. Give thanks for that good and perfect gift!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Last Sunday in the Church Year
Jesus likes to compare sheep and goats. Not that earthly goats are bad. Sheep, that is believers, go to heaven when Jesus comes again and goats, that is unbelievers, go to hell.
Jesus says of the sheep in Matthew 25:35ff:
For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.'
Yet it wasn’t that these sheep did great things, for they responded…
Then the righteous will answer him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink?
It wasn’t that they tried to do good, it was that they lived in faith as forgiven, redeemed children of God, through the blood of Jesus.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Jesus says of the sheep in Matthew 25:35ff:
For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.'
Yet it wasn’t that these sheep did great things, for they responded…
Then the righteous will answer him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink?
It wasn’t that they tried to do good, it was that they lived in faith as forgiven, redeemed children of God, through the blood of Jesus.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
27th Sunday after Pentecost
Faithful. It’s such a little word. Yet it has major implications when we are not faithful. We pledge faithfulness to our spouse. When we aren’t faithful it hurts the relationship. Many end up in divorce. We are asked to faithfully carry out our duties at our job. When we don’t, there are consequences; garnished wages, lack of productivity, or being fired.
The same is true for our God in heaven. He demands perfect faithfulness. If you thought faithfulness to your spouse or boss was a challenge, faithfulness to a God who demands perfection is impossible.
So how can God say in Matthew 25, “well done good and faithful servant?” If I can’t be perfect, than I need the One who has been perfect in my place, Jesus Christ. To be faithful to Him is to trust that He has forgiven all my sins.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
The same is true for our God in heaven. He demands perfect faithfulness. If you thought faithfulness to your spouse or boss was a challenge, faithfulness to a God who demands perfection is impossible.
So how can God say in Matthew 25, “well done good and faithful servant?” If I can’t be perfect, than I need the One who has been perfect in my place, Jesus Christ. To be faithful to Him is to trust that He has forgiven all my sins.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
26th Sunday after Pentecost
It is easy to stare at death and see no hope. It is so final. Yet Paul tells the Thessalonians
But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep.… For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise…. (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18)
We do not look back at our deeds or at death to see hope. Rather we look forward to the promise that when Jesus comes again, all who die in Christ will rise again, in their body to eternal life with Him.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep.… For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise…. (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18)
We do not look back at our deeds or at death to see hope. Rather we look forward to the promise that when Jesus comes again, all who die in Christ will rise again, in their body to eternal life with Him.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
All Saints
We have all seen those commercials that advertise the latest cleaning products. “Get’s out dried in stains, wine, and even blood.” Blood is something to be cleaned out, not cleaned with. But John writes in Revelation 7:
“They have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the lamb.”
The blood of the Lamb, Jesus, is the greatest detergent of all. It cleanses every filthy stain of sin from our life. Jesus delivers that cleansing blood to us through water and word, bread and wine.
For this we rejoice for those whose robes have been washed in the blood of the Jesus; who’s trust was in the true Christian faith and now rest from their labors in death.
But, lo, there breaks a yet more glorious day;
The saints triumphant rise in bright array;
The King of Glory passes on His way.
Alleluia!!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
“They have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the lamb.”
The blood of the Lamb, Jesus, is the greatest detergent of all. It cleanses every filthy stain of sin from our life. Jesus delivers that cleansing blood to us through water and word, bread and wine.
For this we rejoice for those whose robes have been washed in the blood of the Jesus; who’s trust was in the true Christian faith and now rest from their labors in death.
But, lo, there breaks a yet more glorious day;
The saints triumphant rise in bright array;
The King of Glory passes on His way.
Alleluia!!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Reformation
Reform. Change. Take something and make it different, better, more pristine. Key words this election year.
The day labeled the Reformation is really about Jesus. Romans chapter 3 all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God and are justified freely by His grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. And later, For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from the works of the law.
You can add nothing to your salvation or your earthly holiness. Jesus has done it all.
This Reformation salvation message is still for you and me today. There is no adding to it or moving on from it and we never grow out of it. It is the one central truth of the Christian faith on which all others stand or fall. Remain in this Word of Truth forever!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
The day labeled the Reformation is really about Jesus. Romans chapter 3 all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God and are justified freely by His grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. And later, For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from the works of the law.
You can add nothing to your salvation or your earthly holiness. Jesus has done it all.
This Reformation salvation message is still for you and me today. There is no adding to it or moving on from it and we never grow out of it. It is the one central truth of the Christian faith on which all others stand or fall. Remain in this Word of Truth forever!
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Proper 24
“Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and to God the things that are God’s.” (Matthew 22:21) Who ever said Jesus had nothing to say about money and taxes?
Yes, that’s right. Pay what you owe. No matter which politician is going to try and save you the most money this election season, whether your taxes go up or down, we have a God given responsibility to pay our taxes. Don’t seek loopholes and a way to bend the truth.
But there is a greater, equally true message that has to do with a lot more than money. “Give to God, what is God’s.” What can we give God, after all, He has it all? He doesn’t need your money. What He needs is what you need; for you to believe that Jesus has taken away all your sins.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
Yes, that’s right. Pay what you owe. No matter which politician is going to try and save you the most money this election season, whether your taxes go up or down, we have a God given responsibility to pay our taxes. Don’t seek loopholes and a way to bend the truth.
But there is a greater, equally true message that has to do with a lot more than money. “Give to God, what is God’s.” What can we give God, after all, He has it all? He doesn’t need your money. What He needs is what you need; for you to believe that Jesus has taken away all your sins.
These Seeds of Faith have been sown by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, NE. I’m Pastor Allen Strawn.
My apologies
I apologize for there not being updates to the blog. I will give you a nice backlog of them shortly.
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