Q&A: Are there times when it is okay to lie?
In the Bible, lying sometimes seems to be commended, as in the case of Rahab and the spies or the case of the Hebrew midwives. Are there times when it…
Q&A: How does remembering my baptism help with the guilt I carry?
I carry around a lot of guilt. I was told that I need to “remember my baptism.” How does that help me with my guilt? I struggle with guilt too.…
The gospel in song
Luther’s first congregational hymn puts the gospel right where it belongs: in the mouths of God’s people. Not everyone rejoiced when Luther’s first congregational hymn “Dear Christians, One and All,…
Psalms for the seasons of life: June
June 4–10 Psalm 129: “Psalm 129 contrasts with Psalm 128, which speaks of the blessing of the godly. The ungodly, who oppress the godly, will experience no blessing. . .…
Psalms for the seasons of life: May
April 30–May 6 Psalm 103: “Psalm 103 is one of the most beautiful psalms of comfort. It is especially appropriate during sickness or hospitalization. . . . We can say…
Psalms for the seasons of life: April
April 2–8 Psalm 78: “The introduction stresses the depth and the permanent relevance of God’s revelation. . . . The permanent and enduring relevance of God’s word is shown by…
Psalms for the seasons of life: March
March 5–March 11 Psalm 55: “Everything in this psalm fits with the time of Absalom’s conspiracy. . . . David repeats his confidence that the Lord will deliver him. Verse…
Psalms for the seasons of life: February
Jan. 29–Feb. 4 Psalm 25: “The first and last [parts of the psalm] look outward [and] deal with the psalmist’s enemies and afflictions. The middle [part looks] inward [and deals]…
Savor the rain
Martin Luther was not only a student of the Scriptures but also a keen observer of history. He was well aware of how the Christian church spread and grew from…
