A Lenten Devotional 2021 - Zion Ev. Lutheran Church Friedheim Rev. Daniel F. Dahling - Zion-Friedheim Lutheran Church
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A Lenten Devotional
2021
Zion Ev. Lutheran Church
Friedheim
Rev. Daniel F. Dahling
These Forty Days is a simple guide for the reading of Scripture. These Forty Days includes reflections and
prayers for each day and is available for your personal growth.
Many churches and individuals around the world are using similar reading guides during the season of Lent.
We invite you to join us.
THESE FORTY DAYS: A LENTEN READING PLAN – Lent 2021
DAY 1: February 17, 2021 DAY 11: March 1, 2021
ASH WEDNESDAY – Galatians 2:20 Monday – Matthew 5:13
DAY 2: February 18, 2021 DAY 12: March 2, 2021
Thursday – Joel 2:12-17 Tuesday – Matthew 5:14-16
DAY 3: February 19, 2021 DAY 13: March 3, 2021
Friday – Isaiah 58: 1-7 Wednesday – Matthew 5:17-19
DAY 4: February 20, 2021 DAY 14: March 4, 2021
Saturday – Psalm 51: 1-12 Thursday – Matthew 5:20
SUNDAY: February 21, 2021 DAY 15: March 5, 2021
Lent 1 – Matthew 5: 1-12 Friday – Matthew 5:21-22
DAY 5: February 22, 2021 DAY 16: March 6, 2021
Monday – Matthew 5:3 Saturday – Matthew 5:23-26
DAY 6: February 23, 2021 SUNDAY: March 7, 2021
Tuesday – Matthew 5:4 Lent 3 – Matthew 5:27-28
DAY 7: February 24, 2021 DAY 17: March 8, 2021
Wednesday – Matthew 5:5 Monday – Matthew 5:29-30
DAY 8: February 25, 2021 DAY 18: March 9, 2021
Thursday – Matthew 5:6 Tuesday – Matthew 5:31-32
DAY 9: February 26, 2021 DAY 19: March 10, 2021
Friday – Matthew 5:7 Wednesday – Matthew 5:33-37
DAY 10: February 27, 2021 DAY 20: March 11, 2021
Saturday – Matthew 5:8 Thursday – Matthew 5:38-42
SUNDAY: February 28, 2021 DAY 21: March 12, 2021
Lent 2 – Matthew 5:9-12 Friday – Matthew 5:43-45
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DAY 22: March 13, 2021 DAY 32: March 25, 2021
Saturday – Matthew 5:46-47 Thursday – Matthew 7: 21-23
SUNDAY: March 14, 2021 DAY 33: March 26, 2021
Lent 4 – Matthew 5:48 Friday – Matthew 7: 24-27
DAY 23: March 15, 2021 DAY 34: March 27, 2021
Monday – Matthew 6: 1-4 Saturday – Matthew 7:28-29
DAY 24: March 16, 2021 HOLY WEEK
Tuesday – Matthew 6: 5-8
PALM SUNDAY: March 28, 2021
DAY 25: March 17, 2021 Matthew 21: 1-11
Wednesday – Matthew 6: 9-13
DAY 35: March 29, 2021
DAY 26: March 18, 2021 Monday – John 12:1-11
Thursday – Matthew 6: 14-15
DAY 36: March 30, 2021
DAY 27: March 19, 2021 Tuesday – John 12:20-36
Friday – Matthew 6: 16-18
DAY 37: March 31, 2021
DAY 28: March 20, 2021 Wednesday – John 13:21-32
Saturday – Matthew 6:19-34
DAY 38: MAUNDY THURSDAY, April 1, 2021
SUNDAY: March 21, 2021 1 Corinthians 11:23-26
Lent 5 – Matthew 7: 1-6
DAY 39: GOOD FRIDAY, April 2, 2021
DAY 29: March 22, 2021 Isaiah 53: 1-6
Monday – Matthew 7: 7-11
DAY 40: HOLY SATURDAY, April 3, 2021
DAY 30: March 23, 2021 John 19: 38-42
Tuesday – Matthew 7:12
EASTER SUNDAY: April 4, 2021
DAY 31: March 24, 2021 John 20: 1-18
Wednesday – Matthew 7: 13-20
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DAY 1: February 17, 2021 ASH WEDNESDAY – Galatians 2:20
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“It is no longer I who lives but Christ who lives in me.” Luther said, “By faith you are cemented to Christ that He and you
are one person.”2 “I am dead,” says St. Paul. But, never the less, “I live.” I have been crucified with Christ so now I live.
Believers see themselves living in a state of dependence. They are crucified with Christ, and yet Christ lives in them.
During this season of Lent, we will walk with the Savior observing His passion, suffering, death, and glorious
resurrection. As we begin this journey, we must remember our entire life centers on Christ. We do not live unto
ourselves. We focus on Christ. To live for Christ, we must daily die to self through repentance, contrition, and faith.
This Lenten journey is a constant reminder that daily we die to self only to be raised to live with Christ. This often
requires suffering, self-denial, and sacrifice. These demands run contrary to the world’s wisdom. There is a modern-
day epidemic of self-preoccupation! We construct in our minds how things should be for me to be happy and get “my
way.” In Lent, we simply die to self as we walk humbly with the Savior.
During this Lenten journey, remember you are not alone. You have been crucified with Christ. And, in Him, you live.
The Lenten season is upon us once again, O Lord God, and we come to You with the sign of ashes, and the sign of what
we are and what we have been. With repentant hearts, we come to You, begging You for forgiveness and life.3
Almighty God, You have created me out of the dust of the earth: Grant that these ashes may be to me a sign of my
mortality and penitence that I may remember that it is only by Your gracious gift that we are given everlasting life;
through Jesus Christ my Savior. Amen4
Savior, the season of Lent is upon us. You have directed us to come imploring, crying out in Your Father’s name. As we
have experienced the Father’s mercy and love, which You earned for us, may we demonstrate this same mercy with
others especially those who do not yet know You for You demand both mercy as well as sacrifice from those who would
bear Your name.5
1
Ash Wednesday jpg copyright © Google Images
2
Luther’s Works American Edition 26:168 copyright © Concordia Publishing St. Louis Fortress Philadelphia, 1955-86
3
Taken from the CPH Lenten Series Don’t Be Afraid © 1980 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis MO
4
Collect for Ash Wednesday http://www.liturgies.net/Lent/LentenCollects.htm
5
Collect for Ash Wednesday, http://www.liturgies.net/Lent/LentenCollects.htm
5
DAY 2: February 18, 2021 Thursday after Ash Wednesday – Joel 2:12-17
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“…rend your hearts and not your garments.” Return to the Lord your
God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in
steadfast love; and he relents over disaster.” – Joel 2:13
The Lord requires a change of the heart not merely an outward show.
The Psalmist reminds us, “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a
broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.” – Psalm 51:17
Especially in Lent, we come before our Lord confessing our sin with
actions of true repentance. We take responsibility for our sin. We come with genuine and authentic sorrow regretting
what we have done. We make attempts to fix or repair that which we have broken. Then there is an actual change in
our words and behavior. When we follow these steps – taking responsibility, displaying remorse, making strides to
repair, and moving forward to repeat not – we are making legitimate strides toward repentance.
Yet one step, an important step, is necessary in our recovery which is the reconciliation we receive from Jesus our
Savior. Christ is gracious and merciful. It is His nature to forgive. Christ forgives because of who He is. He is that suffering
servant, that Lamb of God which takes away the sin of the world.
Instead of giving us what we deserve, God has shown His compassion. To receive grace is to receive a gift you do not
deserve, God's riches at Christ's expense. To receive mercy is not having to endure the punishment we each deserve.
The psalmist reminds us of this reality when we read; “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in
spirit.” – Psalm 34:18 “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” – Psalm 147:3 “For he hath not despised
nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; neither hath he hid his face from him; but when he cried unto him, he heard.
– Psalm 102:17 “He will regard the prayer of the destitute, and not despise their prayer.” – Psalm 22:24
Direct us, O Lord, in all our doings with Your most gracious favor, and further us with Your continual help; that in all our
works begun continued, and ended in You, we may glorify Your holy Name, and, finally, by Your mercy, obtain
everlasting life, through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and
ever. Amen.7
Lord Jesus, Holy One of God, You showed that the kingdom of God had come by Your healing the sick and casting out
demons. Heal us in both body and soul by the medicine of immortality of Your body and blood that we may truly be Your
disciples; for You live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.8
6
The Crucifixion Schnorr Von Carolsfeld woodcuts copyright © WELS permission granted for personal and congregational use
7
Collect for Thursday after Ash Wednesday, http://www.liturgies.net/Lent/LentenCollects.htm
8
Collect for Thursday after Ash Wednesday Lutheran Service Book © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis
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DAY 3: February 19, 2021 Friday after Ash Wednesday – Isaiah 58: 1-7
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“Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house;
when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?” –
Isaiah 58:7
Israel was caught walking through the motions of fasting and prayer. Their actions were
accurate and right but unacceptable in the sight of God because of their misuse of the poor
and their neglect of those in need. In his epistle, James reminds us, “Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and
daily food. If one of you tells him, “Go in peace; stay warm and well fed,” but does not provide for his physical needs,
what good is that? So too, faith by itself, if it is not complemented by action, is dead.” – James 2:15-17 John in his first
epistles warns, “If anyone with earthly possessions sees his brother in need, but withholds his compassion from him,
how can the love of God abide in him? – 1 John 3:17
If we feel no compassion, if we turn away from a brother in need when we have the means to help him, our inactivity
condemns us. Luther reminds us, “God is merciful. Yet He is not idle. He does not let sinners go unpunished. To the
humble, who fear Him, He is merciful…There are several degrees of love…an enemy must not be offended, a brother
must be helped, a member of one’s household must be supported. You know Christ’s commands concerning love for
one’s enemies. But you owe more to a brother who loves you in return.”10
True, we are redeemed by grace through faith for Jesus’ sake. Grace, mercy, even faith are all gifts. When speaking to
the healed leper Jesus says, “Rise and go your way, “Your faith has made you well.” – Luke 17:19 Rise up. Go. And keep
going. Your faith has and continues to save you. Faith is always busy and active.
Lent is a time of meditation and service. We focus on the words and actions of Christ. We serve the neighbor as Christ
first serves us. We love as Christ first loved us. We provide for our neighbor as Christ has cared for us. May our words
and actions always be motivated by love in acts of mercy and care.
We beseech Thee, O Lord God, to turn Thy face from our sins, and to blot out all our transgressions; and as the publican,
who stood afar off, was heard in his humility, so hear us not for our own merits, but for the merits of Him who, being
co-equal with Thee, His Father, yet for our sakes took upon Him the form of a servant, our Lord Jesus Christ; who lives
and reigns with Thee and the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen11
Support us, O Lord, with Your gracious favor through the fast we have begun; that as we observe it by bodily self-denial,
so we may fulfill it with inner sincerity of heart; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the
Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.12
9
Luther’s Seal copyright © Ed Riojas Higher Things
10
Luther’s Works American Edition 30:278 copyright © Concordia Publishing St. Louis Fortress Philadelphia, 1955-86
11
A Lenten Prayer © 2005 Lutheran Liturgical Prayer Brotherhood
12
Collect for Friday after Ash Wednesday, http://www.liturgies.net/Lent/LentenCollects.htm
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DAY 4: February 20, 2021 Saturday after Ash Wednesday – Psalm 51: 1-12
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“Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to
your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions.” – Psalm 51:1
Psalm 51 is one of seven penitential psalms commonly referred to as psalms
of lament. [See also Psalm 6, 32, 38, 102, 130, 143]
The circumstances concerning this Psalm are explained in the introduction.
David wrote and prayed this Psalm after he was confronted by Nathan the
prophet regarding David’s affair with Bathsheba and the murder of Uriah
Bathsheba’s husband and the subsequent cover-up. The story can be found in 2 Samuel 11:1 – 12:25.
Portions of this Psalm have found their way into our worship life. Verses 10-11 are used in the Offertory. Verse 15 is
used as the opening sentence of Matins and Vespers. Portions of this Psalm are used in the Introit for Ash Wednesday.
This psalm is an intense personal lament over sin and its consequence. It explains not only the consequences of sin that
are present in all people. He also walks us through the process of coming openly before God, confessing our sin then
finding restoration through the mercies of God.
The Psalm is outlined in clear, logical order. The format follows – Verses 1-2 an appeal for mercy, Verses 3-6 a confession
of sin, Verses 7-12 prayers for cleansing, Verses 13-17 willing service of a contrite heart, Verses 18-19 a concluding
prayer for Zion.
As David begins his prayer, he appeals to God’s steadfast love and His abundant mercy. When we pray and especially
when we come seeking His mercy, forgiveness and cleansing we appeal not only to the Lord’s justice but especially to
His mercy care and loving kindness.
We are in the early days of Lent. Use this Psalm often especially when we need to petition the only One who can act
for us cleansing us from our sin.
Rejoice, O Lord, the countenance of Thy servants; and deliver our souls from the lowest hell, that protected by Thy
mercy, we may with spiritual strength tread fleshly desires under foot; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and
reigns with Thee and the Holy Ghost, One God, world without end. Amen.14
Almighty and everlasting God, mercifully look upon our infirmities, and in all our dangers and necessities stretch forth
Your right hand to help and defend us; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit,
one God, forever and ever. Amen.15
God of might and compassion, You sent Your Word into the world as a watchman to announce the dawn of salvation.
Do not leave us in the depths of our sins, but listen to Your Church pleading for the fullness of Your redeeming grace;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.16
13
Schnorr Von Carolsfeld woodcuts copyright © WELS permission granted for personal and congregational use
14
A Lenten Prayer © 2005 Lutheran Liturgical Prayer Brotherhood
15
Collect for Saturday after Ash Wednesday, http://www.liturgies.net/Lent/LentenCollects.htm
16
For All the Saints A Prayer book For and By the Church; The American Lutheran Publicity Bureau © 1995 Delhi, NY Vol. II Year 1 The
Season After Pentecost p. 741
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SUNDAY: February 21, 2021 Lent 1 – Matthew 5: 1-2
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Today we direct our thoughts to the words and teachings of Jesus in
what is commonly referred to as His Sermon on the Mount. Matthew
simply tells us that Jesus directed His disciples to go to a certain
mountain where He would teach them.
Teaching on mountains are common themes and images throughout
the Scriptures. Moses saw the burning bush and had his first
encounter with God on a mountain. He received the Ten
Commandments on a mountain. God spoke to Elijah on the
mountain. The Lord was found not in the wind, an earthquake, not
in the fire but in the sound of a gentle blowing.
Peter would remind us, “For we did not follow cleverly devised tales when we made known to you the power and coming
of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty. For when He received honor and glory from God the
Father, such an utterance as this was made to Him by the Majestic Glory, "This is My beloved Son with whom I am well-
pleased"-- and we ourselves heard this utterance made from heaven when we were with Him on the holy mountain.” –
2 Peter 1:16-18
When Jesus sat with His disciples on the mountain, one greater than Moses begins to teach. Jesus, the man sent by
God to redeem the world, speaks to us as no one can. As Rabbis typically would sit down to teach Jesus, the greatest
teacher of all opens His mouth that we may apply His words to wisdom.
Lent is a time for learning. During this season, learn from Him who has done all things well. Listen to Jesus as He speaks
God’s truth.
Almighty God, whom to know is everlasting life, grant us perfectly to know Your Son, Jesus Christ to be the way, the
truth and the life, that following His steps we may steadfastly walk in the way that leads to eternal life; through the
same Jesus Christ our Lord.18
Almighty God, whose blessed Son was led by the Spirit to be tempted by Satan; Come quickly to help us who are
assaulted by many temptations; and, as You know the weaknesses of each of us, let each one find You mighty to save;
through Jesus Christ Your Son my Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Amen.19
O Lord God, You led Your ancient people through the wilderness and brought them to the promised land. Guide the
people of Your Church that following our Savior we may walk through the wilderness of this world toward the glory of
the world to come; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one
God, now and forever.20
17
The Sermon on the Mount Schnorr Von Carolsfeld woodcuts copyright © WELS permission granted for personal and
congregational use
18
Collect for the right knowledge of Christ, Lutheran Service Book © 2006 Concordia Publish House, St, Louis
19
Collect for First Sunday in Lent, http://www.liturgies.net/Lent/LentenCollects.htm
20
Collect for Lent 1 Lutheran Service Book © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis
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DAY 5: February 22, 2021 Monday of Lent 1 – Matthew 5:3
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” –
Matthew 5:3
Jesus will begin His Sermon on the Mount declaring nine times that His
disciples are blessed. They are blessed because of what He has done for
them. These beatitudes are not demands Jesus is foisting upon you. Rather,
this is your new reality in Christ. These are the gifts that the Savior bestows.
These beatitudes are not prescriptive – steps and demands you must
accomplish – they are descriptive. This is your truth as you await the new
heaven and new earth. (See Revelation 21:1) 21
The beatitudes are found throughout the Scriptures in such places as Psalm 1:1; Luke 11:28; Revelation 19:9.
In Lent, we lay bare our sin, our imperfections, our weaknesses. We come to the Lord, not only confessing our sin, but
realizing our own inadequacies.
The spiritually poor – those persons who acknowledge their moral bankruptcy – theirs is the kingdom of heaven. The
kingdom of heaven is yours. It is yours, not by what you strive to accomplish but by the gift which is given to you by
faith. Even now, by faith, you receive this gift. This reward is repeated also in verse 10.
Blessed are they, the poor in spirit
Theirs is the kingdom of God.
Rejoice and be glad!
Blessed are you, holy are you.
Rejoice and be glad!
Yours is the kingdom of God.22
Lord Jesus, prepare us for that eternal Sabbath when You will rest in us, just as now You work in us. The rest that we
shall enjoy will be Yours, just as the work that we now do is Your work done through us. But You, O Lord, are eternally
at work and eternally at rest. It is not time that You see or in time that You move or in time that You rest, yet You make
what we see in time. You make time itself and the repose which comes when time ceases; for You live and reign with
the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.23
Almighty and everlasting God, mercifully increase in us Your gifts of holy discipline, in almsgiving, prayer and fasting;
that our lives may be directed to the fulfilling of Your most gracious will; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and
reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.24
21
Lift High the Cross copyright © Ed Riojas Higher Things
22
Blessed are They Lutheran Service Book copyright © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis
23
Collect for Monday of Lent 1 Lutheran Service Book © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis
24
Collect for Monday of Lent 1, http://www.liturgies.net/Lent/LentenCollects.htm
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DAY 6: February 23, 2021 Tuesday of Lent 1 – Matthew 5:4
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” – Matthew 5:4 25
“In the midst of life we are in death. From whom may we seek help? From You alone,
O Lord, who by our sins art justly angered. Holy God holy and mighty, holy and
merciful Savior, deliver us not into the bitterness of eternal death.” This 14th Century
hymn has been used for thousands of years as part of the Christian committal
service. Death is the result of the first great catastrophe known to man – the
rebellion of our first parents Adam and Eve in the garden. In the midst of life, we are
in death.
In this life, we experience sorrow. Sorrow over our sin and its consequences, sorrow over our failures and misgivings,
sorrow over the loss of friends and family members, sorrow over our own mortality. Every time you arrive at church
you are reminded of this certainty as you drive past the cemetery.
Yet Christ flips death on its head by promising us new life. Paul reminds us, “If our hope in Christ is for this life alone,
we are to be pitied more than all men. But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the first-fruits of those who
have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man.” – 1
Corinthians 15:19-21
Remember Jesus’ promise, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have
tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33
Because of Christ’s suffering death and glorious resurrection, we can say, “In the midst of death we are in life.”
Blessed are they, full of sorrow;
They shall be consoled.
Rejoice and be glad!
Blessed are you, holy are you.
Rejoice and be glad!
Yours is the kingdom of God. 26
Grant to your people, Lord, grace to withstand the temptations of the world, the flesh and the devil, and with pure
hearts and minds to follow you, the only True God; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and
the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.27
25
Easter image copyright © Ed Riojas Higher Things
26
Blessed are They Lutheran Service Book copyright © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis
27
Collect for Tuesday of Lent 1, http://www.liturgies.net/Lent/LentenCollects.htm11
DAY 7: February 24, 2021 Wednesday of Lent 1 – Matthew 5:5
“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” – Matthew 5:5
The meek. Who are they? They are the lowly. The humble. Meekness is
an attribute of human nature and behavior. It has been defined several
ways as righteous, humble, teachable, and patient under suffering, long
suffering willing to follow after Christ; an attribute of a true disciple.
The follower of Christ receives with meekness the words implanted in us
by the Holy Spirit. In the epistle, James instructs us, “…for man’s anger
does not bring about the righteousness that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and every expression of evil,
and humbly receive the word planted in you, which can save your souls.” – James 1:21
Lent is a time of reflection. When the Word of God through the Law judges and chastens us; when it divides between
soul and spirit, and joints and marrow; when it crushes and humbles us; when it takes away; when it lays us bare – then
it is vital to be quiet and meek and admit that the Word of the Lord is right. The Law always convicts, hunts us down to
confront us. Then, we need to keep our mouth closed instead of answering back, defending and excusing ourselves.
When the Law crushes us, we need to hear the message of the Gospel.
Then, you will be led further on the way of life, the way of Christ. You shall inherit the earth. You are the salt and light
in this world.
Blest are they, the lowly ones;
They shall inherit the earth.
Rejoice and be glad!
Blessed are you, holy are you.
Rejoice and be glad!
Yours is the kingdom of God.28
Bless us, O God, in this holy season, in which our hearts seek Your help and healing; and so purify us by Your discipline
that we may grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and
the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.29
28
Blessed are They Lutheran Service Book copyright © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St, Louis
29
Collect for Wednesday of Lent 1, http://www.liturgies.net/Lent/LentenCollects.htm12
DAY 8: February 25, 2021 Thursday of Lent 1 – Matthew 5:6
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be
satisfied.” – Matthew 5:6
In the Gospel of John, Jesus said, “If anyone thirst, let him come to me and drink.
Whoever believes in me as the Scripture has said, ‘out of his heart will flow rivers
of living water.” – John 7:37-38 Christ’s death and resurrection proclaimed in the
Gospel brings life to all who thirst for Him and His blessings.
Luther reminds us, “We have a clear assurance that God does not cast aside
sinners, that is, those who recognize their sin and desire to come to their senses, who thirst for righteousness.”30
Today marks the 183rd anniversary of the signing of our congregation’s charter. By God’s grace, may we continue to
hunger and thirst for righteousness; the righteousness of Christ. The story of Friedheim, “the house of peace,” is a
testimony of the Lord’s faithfulness. He was faithful to His people then; He is faithful to His people now and will remain
faithful to His people forever. Thankful for the blessings of the past, confident of the Lord’s presence in our lives, we
can look to the future certain that our life in Christ is secure.
O Holy Spirit, bring refreshing showers of blessing each day of my life.31
Blest are they who hunger and thirst;
They shall have their fill.
Rejoice and be glad!
Blessed are you, holy are you.
Rejoice and be glad!
Yours is the kingdom of God.32
Multiply Thy strength, O Lord, in the souls of Thy humble servants, that while we ever worship Thee in Thy holy temple,
we may, together with Thy holy angels, rejoice in beholding Thee; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns
with Thee and the Holy Ghost, One God, world without end. Amen.33
Strengthen us, O Lord, by Your grace, that in Your might we may overcome all spiritual enemies, and with pure hearts
serve You through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.
Amen.34
30
Luther’s Works American Edition 2:41 copyright © Concordia Publishing St. Louis Fortress Philadelphia, 1955-86
31
The Lutheran Study Bible copyright © 2009 Concordia Publishing House, St, Louis
32
Blessed are They Lutheran Service Book copyright © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St, Louis
33
© 2005 Lutheran Liturgical Prayer Brotherhood
34
Collect for Thursday of Lent 1, http://www.liturgies.net/Lent/LentenCollects.htm13
DAY 9: February 26, 2021 Friday of Lent 1 – Matthew 5:7
“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.” – Matthew 5:7
Jesus declares in Luke 6:36, “Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.” How do we define
“mercy”? Solomon instructs us in Proverbs 19:17, “Whoever is generous to the poor lends to
the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.” To the extent that we serve our neighbor, the
Lord is watching. He sees all. Simply stated, having pity on the poor, or helping them when
you can, is like giving directly to God.35
Lent a time for self-giving, rather than merely 'giving something up.’ Giving helps us connect more effectively and
lovingly with others in our lives, for we have taken time to see them and the needs they have. This was something Jesus
did to a masterful level. He stopped and touched people. He asked them what they needed from him, and he met their
needs — not only in loving ways, but also in miraculous ways. His love for you drove Him to the cross. The cross is the
mark of Christ’s mercy. It is the emblem of love.
Take time today to think about your Lenten journey and how you are preparing yourself for Christ’s coming at Easter.
Think about prayer, fasting and giving. Find ways to fulfill each area of preparation during this season. How are your
words and actions motivated by mercy?
“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared
for you from the foundation of the world. 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…Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.” –
Matthew 25:34-36, 40
Blessed are they who show mercy;
Mercy shall be theirs.
Rejoice and be glad!
Blessed are you, holy are you.
Rejoice and be glad!
Yours is the kingdom of God.36
Lord Christ, our eternal Redeemer, grant us such fellowship in Your sufferings, that filled with Your Holy Spirit, we may
subdue the flesh to the spirit, and the spirit to You, and at the last attain to the glory of Your resurrection; who live and
reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.37
Lord Jesus, Son of the Most High God, You freed many from their bondage to demons, demonstrating Your power over
the evil one. Show us Your mercy when we are overcome by the darkness of sin, death, and the devil, and protect us by
Your mighty Word that does what it says; for You live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and
forever.38
35
Luther’s Seal copyright © Ed Riojas Higher Things
36
Blessed are They Lutheran Service book copyright © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St, Louis
37
Collect for Friday of Lent 1, http://www.liturgies.net/Lent/LentenCollects.htm
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Collect for Friday of Lent 1 Lutheran Service Book © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis14
DAY 10: February 27, 2021 Saturday of Lent 1 – Matthew 5:8
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” – Matthew 5:8
Those who are the “pure in heart” are defined in scripture as follows…
“He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to
what is false.” – Psalm 24:4
“Having purified your souls by your obedience to the truth for a sincere
brotherly love, love one another earnestly from a pure heart.” – 1 Peter 1:22
“Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will
see the Lord.” – Hebrews 12:1
“Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears
we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is.” – 1 John 3:2-3
“They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads.” – Revelation 22:4
The pure in heart are the children of God. They are truthful, with sincere love; they strive for peace with everyone.
They look forward to the dawn of a new day that lasts into eternity. They are Christ-like.
Now you hear His voice. When Christ appears, you shall see His face.
Blessed are they, the pure in heart;
They shall see God!
Rejoice and be glad!
Blessed are you, holy are you.
Rejoice and be glad!
Yours is the kingdom of God.39
O God, by Your Word You marvelously carry out the work of reconciliation: Grant that in our Lenten fast we may be
devoted to You with all our hearts, and united with one another in prayer and holy love; through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.40
39
Blessed are They Lutheran Service Book copyright © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St, Louis
40
Collect for Saturday of Lent 1, http://www.liturgies.net/Lent/LentenCollects.htm15
SUNDAY: February 28, 2021 Lent 2 – Matthew 5:9-12
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. Blessed are those who are
persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when others
revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice
and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before
you.” – Matthew 5:9-12
Making peace is not a passive activity. Sometimes it requires confrontation when we would personally feel more
peaceful if we simply ignored the problem and quietly walked away. Sometimes making peace requires taking a
tough stand. Making peace is a pursuit. It is action, not apathy. Sometimes you will suffer for it. Would you rather
be liked or respected? How you answer this question leads to the Savior’s announcement –“I have said these
things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have
overcome the world.” – John 16:10
People can use backward, stupid, gullible, nave, prudish, judgmental, insensitive and cruel words; words which
hurt God’s ears. That kind of behavior quickly brings ridicule. That is not being persecuted. You receive
mistreatment because you are insulting and offensive. Are you abusive or promoting harmony? Are you
peacemaker or a troublemaker? Are you mistreated because of your need to be right or because you belong to
Christ? In this life, there will be trouble. The wisdom of Jesus will serve us well. “Behold, I am sending you out as
sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.” – Matthew 10:16 Choose the words
you use – but choose wisely!
Blest are they who seek peace
They are the children of God.
Blest are they who suffer in faith;
The glory of God is theirs.
Blessed are you who suffer hate,
All because of Me.
Rejoice and be glad, yours is the kingdom;
Shine for all to see
Rejoice and be glad!
Blessed are you, holy are you.
Rejoice and be glad!
Yours is the kingdom of God.41
O God, whose glory it is always to have mercy: Be gracious to all who have gone astray from Your ways, and bring
them again with penitent hearts and steadfast faith to embrace and hold fast the unchangeable truth of Your
Word, Jesus Christ Your Son; who with You and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, forever and ever. Amen.42
O God, You see that of ourselves we have no strength. By Your mighty power defend us from all adversities that
may happen to the body and from all evil thoughts that may assault and hurt the soul; through Jesus Christ, Your
Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever .43
4141
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Collect for Lent 2 Lutheran Service Book © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis16
DAY 11: March 1, 2021 Monday of Lent 2 – Matthew 5:13
“You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be
restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under
people’s feet. – Matthew 5:13 44
A free translation of this verse might read as follows, “You are the salt of the earth, but if
salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored or be again salted? It is no longer
good or has the strength for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under
people's feet.”
Salt cannot lose itself. Christianity is the preservative of the world. When it is lost, it is good for nothing. Salt and light
must be seen through the life and actions of Jesus. Christ was literally trampled underfoot. They killed the shepherd.
And the sheep scattered.
Jesus calls His imperfect people “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world.” (Matthew 5:14). That’s because the
Lord Jesus came not to abolish the Law or the Prophets “but to fulfill them” (Matthew 5:17) in perfect faith and love.
Christ’s followers are described as “the salt of the earth.” His responsibility toward the world are to be understood in
terms of the various qualities of salt, such as strengthening, flavoring, preserving, purifying, etc. Jesus saw His followers
as leveling agents in an impure world. Their example would keep the fire of faith alive even under stress.
Indeed here is the righteousness that exceeds the righteousness of Pharisees—a righteousness that does not come
from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ. This righteousness is literally a gift from God, a gift that is
given because of the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, a redemption that was purchased with the blood of Jesus.45
Humanity will not benefit if salt – or disciples, Christ followers – become useless. One might as well throw it out to be
trampled underfoot. It is therefore imperative that we remain connected to Christ at all times.
The word “salary” comes from the word salt. The Romans would pay their soldiers not in gold but in salt. A faithful
worker was literally “worth his salt.” Christ says of you, “You are the salt of the world.” That is, a preservative in this
corrupt and sinful world. God preserves the world, so that Christians may serve Him here.
Lent is a season of witness. The Lord has bestowed upon you talents, abilities and gifts to be shared with your neighbor
for his benefit. Think how you can impart a person’s life. What opportunities await you to be the hands and feet the
fingers and toes of Jesus?
Let your Spirit, O Lord, come into the midst of us to wash us with the pure water of repentance, and prepare us to be
always a living sacrifice to You; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one
God, forever and ever. Amen.46
44
Go into all the world copyright © Ed Riojas Higher Things
45
Rev. Dr. Daniel J Brege study notes for Epiphany 5 Series A
46
Collect for Monday of Lent 2, http://www.liturgies.net/Lent/LentenCollects.htm17
DAY 12: March 2, 2021 Tuesday of Lent 2- Matthew 5:14-16
47
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do
people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light
to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that
they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
– Matthew 5:14-16
And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. And God saw that the
light was good. And God separated the light from the darkness. God called the
light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And there was evening and there
was morning, the first day. – Genesis 1:3-5
Just as the Lord spoke light into the universe on the first day of creation, through His Word He is able to create saving
faith in the heart of the believer. Jesus, the light of the world shines in the lives of His people thus He can say you are
His light.
This light cannot be hidden. What does light do? It eliminates darkness. A candle in total darkness can be seen for
thirty miles. The light of a city standing on a hill cannot be hidden. Likewise, the light of Christ in the life of a believer
in Christ cannot be hidden.
Christ is the light coming into the world. In the Nicene Creed we confess concerning Jesus that He is “Light of Light,
very God of very God, begotten, not made.” In the Creed, the Church states that Jesus was truly God with the phrases
beginning with “Light of Light.” They continued to emphasize the equality of Father and Son with the phrases, “Very
God of Very God, Begotten, not made; of one essence with the Father.” In the Creed, “begotten” has a special meaning
assigned to it. Jesus is “begotten,” not created. Everything that exists is created by God. Only God Himself, the Trinity,
is not created. Jesus existed from all time with the Father and the Holy Spirit. This one holy eternal God brings light to
you through faith.
The city cannot be hidden. It is set on the mountain. This is a promise rather than a demand. It is impossible for the
Church not to bear witness of Christ. May Christ’s light shine forth in you.
O God, You willed to redeem us from all iniquity by Your Son: Deliver us when we are tempted to regard sin without
abhorrence, and let the virtue of his passion come between us and our mortal enemy; through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives, and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen48
47
First Day of Creation Schnorr Von Carolsfeld woodcuts ‘The first day of creation’ copyright © WELS permission granted for
personal and congregational use
48
Collect for Tuesday of Lent 2, http://www.liturgies.net/Lent/LentenCollects.htm18
DAY 13: March 3, 2021 Wednesday of Lent 2 – Matthew 5:17-19
Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to
abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away,
not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished. Therefore whoever
relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will
be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will
be called great in the kingdom of heaven.- Matthew 5:17-19
Jesus came not to abolish the Law and the Prophets but to fulfill them. In His life, His
ministry, His teaching, His actions, Jesus fulfilled all that was written concerning Himself
in the Old Testament Scriptures. When Jesus makes reference to “the Law and the
Prophets” He is referring to the Old Testament as a whole. He kept the commands of the
Law perfectly.
Jesus is able to empathize with us in our struggles especially when we face temptation. The writer to the Hebrews
reminds us, “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every
respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.” Hebrews 4:15
From the Catechism we are taught concerning the Sixth Petition of the Lord’s Prayer “And lead us not into temptation.”
God tempts no one. We pray in this petition that God would guard and keep us so that the devil, the world, and our
sinful nature may not deceive us or misled us into false belief, despair, and other great shame and vice. Although we
are attacked by these things, we pray that we may finally overcome them and win the victory.
In Lent, we remember and recall that we are vulnerable to temptation. We often flounder and fall. Jesus was able to
withstand temptation. Jesus understands our struggles. He understands how vulnerable we can be. He was victorious
when we so often fail. Thus, Jesus becomes the perfect sacrifice for sin. He withstood temptation. He lived the perfect
life for you.
Living according to the precepts of the Law still matters. The teachers of the Law were apt to suggest that the
requirements were no longer applicable. Not so. Jesus warns, we have no business in relaxing the requirements of
God’s Law. We need to be serious with regards to our behavior. But when we falter or fail, we look to Jesus our
champion. The blood of Jesus covers all sin.
O God, You so loved the world that you gave Your only begotten Son to reconcile earth with heaven; Grant that we,
loving You above all things, may love our friends in You, and our enemies for Your sake; through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.49
49
Collect for Wednesday of Lent 2, http://www.liturgies.net/Lent/LentenCollects.htm19
DAY 14: March 4, 2021 Thursday of Lent 2 – Matthew 5:20
Jesus declares, "For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and
Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." 50
When most people consider righteousness, they think of being a very good person, a person
who obeys the Ten Commandments. This is not wrong thinking. Certainly, God desires that we
be good people and that we obey His Commandments. In Jesus’ day, the Pharisees were viewed
as the most righteous people on earth. They had dissected God’s law (Ten Commandments and
special Jewish laws) into over 630 laws, and they maintained that they kept such laws; they were indeed outwardly
righteous, and people considered them to possess the ultimate righteousness.
Jesus said that our righteousness must exceed that of the Pharisees. How can we be more righteous than the most
righteous people on earth? It can happen—as revealed in both the Old and New Testaments—because we can have a
righteousness that does not come from our obedience to God’s laws.
An Old Testament example of this righteousness is found in the classic verse about Abram’s faith: And he believed the
Lord, and he [God] counted it to him as righteousness. – Genesis 15:6. Abram was given righteousness; it was a
righteousness that was from outside of Abram, for it was a righteousness that came by God’s declaration based upon
Abram’s faith. This declared righteousness is called justification.
Why would God do this? Why would God declare someone righteous? Is their faith considered the greatest act of
righteousness? No, God declares someone righteous—including Old Testament believers—because their faith is in
Christ. Jesus, the object of faith, gives righteousness. Abram’s faith was in the Christ who was at the center of God’s
promises given in Genesis 15.
In his letter to the Romans (3:20-24), the Apostle Paul clearly presents the differences between righteousness that is
derived from keeping God’s law and righteousness that is given as a gift to a believer in Jesus. Of the righteousness
from keeping God’s law, he wrote: For by works of the law no human being will be justified [declared righteous] in his
sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin. For us there is no righteousness before God in keeping God’s law;
instead, sin is thus exposed. But of the real righteousness before God Paul then wrote: But now the righteousness of
God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law [writings of Moses] and the Prophets bear witness to
it—the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: for all have
sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified [declared righteous] by his grace as a gift, through the
redemption that is in Christ Jesus.51
O Lord, strong and mighty, Lord of Hosts and King of glory: Cleanse our hearts from sin, keep our hands pure, and turn
our minds from what is passing away; so that at the last we may stand in Your holy place and receive Your blessing;
through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen52
50
Luther’s Seal copyright © Ed Riojas Higher Things
51
Rev Dr. Daniel J Brege Commentary on the Gospel lesson for Epiphany 5 Series A
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Collect for Thursday of Lent 2, http://www.liturgies.net/Lent/LentenCollects.htm20
DAY 15: March 5, 2021 Friday of Lent 2 – Matthew 5:21-22
“You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder; and whoever
murders will be liable to judgment.’ But I say to you that everyone who is angry with
his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the
council; and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be liable to the hell of fire – Matthew 5:21-
22 53
Jesus begins this section with these words, “And I say to you…” Who is this “I”? Who
is presumptuous to go beyond what Moses said? Who does the “I” think he is – one
greater than Moses, the mighty prophet of God? Here we
confront Christological considerations. Jesus is speaking. Here we find a greater than
Moses. In the words, “I say to you.” Jesus is placing Himself above all other religious
teachers and prophets. How can He rightfully do this? Jesus speaks as God’s Son, the Word made flesh. He has the
mind, the Spirit, and the essence of God the Father. As the Word of God, Jesus’ word is truth excelling all other teachers.
Thus, the Scriptures testify of Him and we interpret them in the light of Christ.54
Anger is a raw emotion. Paul would remind us, “Be angry but do not sin.” – Ephesians 4:6 Moses got angry when the
people made an idol. Prophets got angry when widows and orphans were neglected and when the stranger wasn’t
provided with hospitality. Jesus got angry and overturned the tables of those who were profiting from poor worshipers.
The problem comes, even with righteous anger, when we are so angry that we do harm. The problem comes when we
stay angry instead of letting that anger subside and morph into looking for creative and constructive solutions to unjust
actions and systems. The problem comes when anger is a way of life, or a lens through which we view other people.
The problem comes when anger interferes with relationships.
Insults and angry words almost never help things; they make things worse. In angry times, it’s important that we rebuild
broken relationships. It’s important that we offer criticism in such a way that it constructs bridges instead of barriers.
It’s important that we let love for our fellow human beings turn anger into listening, and then into action. Otherwise,
our anger will kill us.55
Grant O Lord, that as Your Son Jesus Christ prayed for His enemies on the cross, so we may have grace to forgive those
who wrongfully or scornfully use us, that we ourselves may be able to receive Your forgiveness; through Jesus Christ our
Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.56
Lord Jesus, Bread of Life, in Your great compassion You fed the multitudes with a few loaves and a few fish. Feed us the
holy food of Your Word broken open that hearts may burn and Your very body and blood that eyes may be opened to
see You as the very Bread of heaven; for You live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit; one God, now and
forever.57
53
The Water and the Blood copyright © Ed Riojas Higher Things
54
Text notes Epiphany 6 – Series A
55
https://melissabanesevier.wordpress.com/2017/02/06/anger-and-murder/
56
Collect for Friday of Lent 2, , http://www.liturgies.net/Lent/LentenCollects.htm
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Collect for Friday of Lent 2, Lutheran Service Book © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis21
DAY 16: March 6, 2021 Saturday of Lent 2 – Matthew 5:23-26
So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember
that your brother has something against you, leave your gift
there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your
brother, and then come and offer your gift. Come to terms
quickly with your accuser while you are going with him to court,
lest your accuser hand you over to the judge, and the judge to
the guard, and you be put in prison. Truly, I say to you, you
will never get out until you have paid the last penny.” – Matthew
5:23-26
Our only hope of reconciliation with others comes from the death
and resurrection of Jesus. Paul would remind us, “in Christ God was reconciling the
world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us
the message of reconciliation. – 2 Corinthians 5:19 Paul further explains, “Blessed
is the man whose sin the Lord will never count against him." – Romans 4:8
God, in His endless love, has given His Son for you, who has assumed your nature,
and died in your stead. Through Christ’s death and his glorious resurrection, the
Father’s anger is stilled. He is satisfied with Jesus’ work and action. God's decision
to not count the sins of which we are guilty against us is a gift of His grace. Not
only does faith receive this work of Christ personally; the Spirit directs and
motivates us to become reconciled with others and to forgive.
From Luther’s Small Catechism we are reminded:
We pray in this petition that our Father in heaven would not look upon our sins, nor
on their account deny our prayer; for we are not worthy of anything we ask, neither
have we de-served it. But we pray that He would give us everything by grace, for we
daily sin much and deserve nothing but punishment; and we on our part will heartily
forgive and readily do good to those who sin against us.58
Grant, most merciful Lord, to Your faithful people pardon and peace, that they may
be cleansed from all their sins, and serve You with a quiet mind; through Jesus
Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and
forever.59
God our Father, by your gifts to us on earth we already share in your life. In all we do, guide us to the light of your
kingdom. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God,
forever and ever. Amen60
58
Explanation for the 5th Petition of the Lord’s Prayer, Luther’s Small Catechism copyright © 2006 Concordia Publishing House,
St. Louis
59
Collect for Saturday of Lent 2 http://liturgues.net/Lent/LentenCollects.htm
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Prayer for Saturday of the Week of Lent, For All the Saints A prayer Book For and By the Church Vol.1 copyright © 1994 The
America Lutheran Publicity Bureau Delhi, NY22
SUNDAY: March 7, 2021 Lent 3 – Matthew 5:27-28
You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman
with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart. – Matthew 5:27-28
61 To exceed the “righteousness of the Pharisees and the scribes,” you must
“exceed” the letter of the law, and Jesus gives examples of what “exceeding”
looks like. Take, for example, “adultery.” Many may claim they have
been faithful to their spouse. They have been serious
concerning their marriage vows. Yet Jesus explains,
“But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has
already committed adultery with her in his heart.”
Jesus goes well beyond Moses to explain that the
problem of the scribe and the Pharisee. They only read
the commandment. They had a regard for an outward form
in religion. They placed their attention on the letter of the law rather than the
spirit.
Humility is that righteousness that exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, because
humility is directional, it re-orientates man toward God, and it is in that re-
orientating that we discover just how ill we really are, and how desperately we need
the healing grace of our Great Physician to become “fully alive.” Jesus directs us
to see that all these laws have one thing in common; they have to do with the
Christian community in the present. Anger destroys community, lust destroys
community, divorces destroys community, and hate destroys community.
The fulfillment of the Commands, or works, is not the means by which salvation is
earned; rather, salvation begins in the attempt and the failure of attempting to keep
them, for it is only in failing that humility is to be found. Humility gives us an
accurate picture of ourselves, unlike our friends the scribes and the Pharisees, who
were concerned only with outward show. And if we’re honest, humility shows us that
we too have often thought merely keeping the Commandments externally was enough,
after all, none of us are murderers, but we all have the capacity for anger. None of
us has committed adultery, but we all have the capacity for lustful thoughts.
Humility is that righteousness that exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, because
humility is directional, it re-orientates man toward God, and it is in that re-
orientating that we discover just how ill we really are, and how desperately we need
the healing grace of our Great Physician to become “fully alive.”62
Almighty God, You know that I have no power in myself to help myself: Keep me both outwardly in my body and inwardly
in my soul, that I may be defended from all adversities which may happen to the body, and from all evil thoughts which
may assault and hurt the soul; through Jesus Christ the Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God,
forever and ever. Amen63
61
Chi Rho copyright © Ed Riojas Higher Things
62
Notes and commentary on Matthew 5 copyright © Pr. Ken Kelly July 2017
63
Collect for the Third Sunday in Lent, http://www.liturgies.net/Lent/LentenCollects.htm23
DAY 17: March 8, 2021 Monday of Lent 3 – Matthew 5:29-30
If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. For it is better that you
lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell. And if your
right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. For it is better that you lose
one of your members than that your whole body go into hell.-Matthew 5:29-30 64
Jesus will use hyperbole to drive home a serious point. Sin has
its consequences. Jesus is addressing sinful actions and
behaviors. They destroy families and personal relationships. They
create scars with deep and lasting wounds. “What was I thinking?”
is the statement made in regret when we consider the deep
consequences for our words and actions.
Whatever is causing you to sin, take drastic measures to get that thing out of your life.
“It is better for you to enter life maimed or crippled than to have two hands or two
feet and be thrown into eternal fire…It is better for you to enter life with one eye
than to have two eyes and be thrown into the fire of hell” (Matthew 18:8–9). Nothing is
worth missing heaven for. Nothing is worth going to hell for. Nothing.
Realize the importance of the soul and its destiny, "It is profitable for thee that one
of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell."
(KJV) If an eye or hand leads one to commit sin, it would be better to get rid of these
body parts than to go into hell.
God takes sin seriously—seriously enough to sacrifice His only begotten Son to destroy
it. We must take sin seriously as well. A lack of repentance is a crime punishable by
eternal death. It is better to deny our flesh, to pluck out an eye or cut off a hand, as
it were than to risk sinning against God. We naturally tend to pamper ourselves and
excuse our sin. That is why we need Jesus’ shocking, radical hyperbole to wake us from
our spiritual complacency.
Jesus does not demand that we do the impossible – to live a perfect life. In His
conversation with Nicodemus, Jesus gave no mention of right living. The only condition
He gave for eternal life was faith in Him alone. (John 3:16) He called people to recognize
their sinfulness and then look to Him to forgiveness and life.
Look upon the heart-felt desires of Your humble servants, Almighty God, and stretch forth
the right hand of Your majesty to be our defense against all our enemies; through Jesus
Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and
ever. Amen65
Luther’s Seal copyright © Ed Riojas Higher Things
64
65
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