Victorious
Jesus’ descent into hell celebrates the fulfillment of the first gospel promise ever made: Jesus would crush Satan’s head. We go to church on Good Friday and Easter Sunday—a solemn…
Out from the shadows
I recently read a cute children’s book about a bear to my kids. The bear had a problem. This dark thing kept following him everywhere he went. Know what it…
“My life”: Part 2
Jesus’ purpose in laying down his life was so that after three days he could take it up victoriously. It was my first experience with death. I’ll never forget standing…
“My life”: Part 1
Jesus laid down his life so that life comes to us. “Mine!” cries the two-year-old to his one-year-old sister who has unknowingly laid hands on a favorite toy. “It’s my…
Painted into the picture
We are not only united with Jesus in his crucifixion but also in his resurrection. In 1633, the Dutch artist Rembrandt painted The Raising of the Cross. The painting shows…
Cleansed once and for all
Because of Jesus’ sacrifice, we have been cleansed from sin forever. Wouldn't it be nice to clean something once and then never have to clean it again? I would love…
Jesus’ hands are never tied
“I’m sorry, sir. There is nothing I can do. My hands are tied.” I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve heard that in my life. You’re on the…
You are forgiven
A woman distraught over her sins finds Jesus’ love and forgiveness at the cross. She sits across from me. Hunched over. Shoulders slumped. Hands covering her face. Sobs convulsing her.…
WELS news briefs: February 2023
WELS Discipleship A new three-part video Bible study resource is now available for youth ministry leaders to use with their teen groups. Written by Dr. Phil Huebner, “Who Am I?”…