It is my custom to read the full Matthew Passion, preaching a brief homily and letting the Passion do much of the preaching. In the Name of the Father and of the + Son and of the Holy Spirit             Today’s Epistle begins with these words, Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in […]

In the Name of the Father and of the + Son and of the Holy Spirit             “I see it, but I wish it was not there.” That was the remark of a well-meaning layman when shown a citation in our Symbolic Books concerning a particular practice of the Evangelical-Lutheran Church. Perhaps you have been […]

Johann Heermann on Judica Sunday (John 8:46–59) Translation © Matthew Carver, 2012. Sure cure and remedy Against death’s potency In the name of Christ Jesus, our Physician, who has prescribed for us a tested remedy against death’s potency, and by His honest mouth assures that all orthodox hearts who use this medicine shall not taste […]

Johann Heermann on Laetare Sunday (John 6) Translation © Matthew Carver, 2012. Distich: In Jesus Christ the Lord rejoice! / Who with all joy His work employs. Invocation: …Following the admonition of David, who says “Delight in the Lord and trust in Him, and He will give you what your heart desires,” let us put […]

In the Name of the Father and of the + Son and of the Holy Spirit             Trust me. Easy to say, very hard to do, especially in this cynical age. Jesus asks Philip a “trust me” question when He asks, where are we to buy bread, so that these people may eat? Saint John […]