Die LTS Post ist da!

Posted on July 1, 2015 by Wilhelm Weber
Pastor Damaske accompanying the singing during Matins
Prof. Dr. Edward Kettner teaching Christology for 2 weeks intensive at the LTS in May 2015
Invigilating exams
Student representative Stanley Mokone
Together with Pastor Mntambo and student Mkhabela after the Confessional service

Liebe Freunde vom Lutherisch Theologischen Seminar in Tshwane (Pretoria, Südafrika):

Die neuste LTS Post ist da. Es ist eine Übersetzung der LTS News vom vergangenen Monat. Hoffentlich können wir so noch besser ausbreiten, was beim Seminar hier passiert: 2015,3 LTS Post

Mit freundlichem Gruss vom kalten Hochveld!

Posted in LTS in Tshwane | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Herrenhuter readings for Tuesday, the 30th June 2015

Posted on June 30, 2015 by Wilhelm Weber

bamberg

Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word. (Psalm 119,114) But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil. (2.Thessalonians 3,3)

In the end it’s not about this or that, but whether that to which your heart clings and where it finds its joy and rest, will hold or give way, be dependable, faithful and trustworthy or just fleeting sand. A  buck trusts in his speed or in his ability to camaflouge itself. A bird may rely on its wings and its high perch. Whereas the tortise will just draw its head in and hope that the shell will withstand the assaults of the predator. We Christians take our refuge with our triune God. He is our sanctuary, where we find shelter. He is the strong and mighty shield, which can repulse all poisonous arrows, fierce blows and crafty attacks of the wily foe. His holy Word is our sure foundation and very blessed keep and stay. It guards, protects and maintains us throughout. That is why we fear no ill. His rod and staff they comfort us + He is faithful. He will establish us and keep us from all evil. Yes, wonder above wonder he will actually keep us right in the midst of trouble and calamity. Like he kept Noah and his sons in that mother of all storms and deluge, which destroyed all and everything except those, who had on the account of God’s command built that ark and found refuge in the sure sanctuary, which God himself had envisioned for him. Or Jona in the very deep oceans right insight the gigantic fish and sea monster, which did not harm him, but rather on God’s appointment and calling kept and preserved him from drowning and loosing his way completely. It brought him back to land and set him up to go about his mission to Ninive, which was supposed to have been his duty and business from the start. Or Egypt, where the living God found a safe haven from the devouring dragon and evil persecutors – Herod and his ilk – for his baby boy Jesus and his holy mother, the blessed Virgin Mary. Or the desert, where the people of God found a safe hiding place from the tyrannical forces and murdering hordes chasing after them. Here they were established and kept from all evil for more than 40 years. Right there in the desolation and barren wasteland, the good and almighty God blessed and kept Israel. There he was around them with his gracious presence and peace. And see, that’s what our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ does too. From the very beginning he showed his disciples and more than doubting followers that he would establish them in all divine goodness and abundance, even whilst keeping them from evil and shielding them from all calamity and mishap. He fed the  thousands in the desert. He healed the ill and failing. He restored the fallen and lost. He forgave the sinners and brought the godless back into the family and house of the living God. He is the saviour of the world. Through his mighty word and blessed gospel he grants forgiveness of sins, peace, eternal life and blessed salvation. Through his realistic and effective word in his most gracious sacraments, he creates anew, washes and renews, vitalizes and uplifts, upholds and preserves, shields and protects, sustains and establishes saving faith in all those, who believe when and where it pleases him. His holy Word remains in eternity. „No one who hopes in you will ever be put to shame, but shame will come on those who are treacherous without cause.“ (Psalm 25:3) Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. (Isaiah 40:31)

“Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers. Not so the wicked! They are like chaff that the wind blows away. Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.” (Psalm 1)

  1. A mighty fortress is our God, a trusty shield and weapon; He helps us free from every need that hath us now overtaken. The old evil foe now means deadly woe; deep guile and great might Are his dread arms in fight; on Earth is not his equal.
  2. With might of ours can naught be done, soon were our loss effected; But for us fights the Valiant One, whom God Himself elected. Ask ye, who is this? Jesus Christ it is. Of Sabbath Lord, and there’s none other God; He holds the field forever.
  3. Though devils all the world should fill, all eager to devour us. We tremble not, we fear no ill, they shall not overpower us. This world’s prince may still scowl fierce as he will, He can harm us none, he’s judged; the deed is done; One little word can fell him.
  4. The Word they still shall let remain nor any thanks have for it; He’s by our side upon the plain with His good gifts and Spirit. And take they our life, goods, fame, child and wife, Let these all be gone, they yet have nothing won; The Kingdom ours remaineth. (Martin Luther)
Posted in Herrenhuter Readings | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Herrenhuter readings for Monday, the 29th June 2015

Posted on June 29, 2015 by Wilhelm Weber

crucifixion-of-jesus-c

The Lord thy God turned the curse into a blessing unto thee, because the Lord thy God loved thee. (Dt 23:5 – or 6 in some translations)  Jesus Christ says: „I came not to judge the world, but to save the world.“ (Joh 12,47)

The Triune  God does great things. He creates all out of nothing. He overcomes evil with good. He also turns curse into blessing. All this he does, because of his gracious goodness and mercy, without any merit or worthiness on our part, because he loved us in Jesus Christ, his only begotten Son our Lord and God. In him he did not judge the world, but rather sought it out in all its misery and sinful corruption to forgive, repair, heal and restore. Countless examples go a long way to prove this. Many have been recorded for us by the apostles and evangelists, so that we too would believe and trust the loving goodness of our Lord. For example the story of Zacchaeus in Jericho, of the Samaritan women at Jacob’s well, of Mary Magdalene or that murderous villian hanging on the cross with Jesus. This history describes how our Lord brings forgiveness of sins and thus life and salvation to people, who were under the curse of evil and godlessness, who could not help themselves, but were sought out by him and restored to the family of God. They were brought out of the state of unrighteousness by his gracious pardon and restoration, justified by his holy and pure righteousness – vicarious justification – he for them – his righteousness coming from outside of them and imposed, imputed and put on to them as theirs. The curse is overcome, blessing has been granted. It’s a new creation, justified by grace, forgiven, restored and thus paradise regained. That is the wonderful doing of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is proclaimed as the good news for the poor and those living in darkness and shadow of death. It’s meant for those, who can’t help themselves, who are lost and given up, outside of hope, without choices and desperate. Because his light overcomes and dispels even this darkness. Calling lost cases like Saul, the worst persecutor of the church to repentance, to a new and different life – not against, but with Christ the Lord and saviour. So that now those things that before were high and mighty seem but poor and lowly and those that before were deemed just to poor and abominable now are the sure foundation of all: The suffering and dying of the crucified Jesus Christ is no longer God’s obvious proof of his divine curse, negation and disqualification of an abominable life, but rather brings about his glorious justification of sinners and the restoration of life and holiness through the wonderful creativity and goodness of the living God. He, who previously persecuted the crucified Christ and his faithful people therefore now after his conversion proclaims that same Christ as God’s way to salvation for all who believe. It’s the fundamental change of all and everything, the true focal and crucial point, the hinge of true life, the deciding and critical issue. For him, who is in Jesus Christ, there is no judgement. He has come from curse to blessing, from darkness to light, from death to life.  For he is the truth, the very light, the only way to the Father. Amen.

1. Hail, Thou once despised Jesus! Hail, Thou Galilean King! Thou didst suffer to release us; Thou didst free salvation bring. Hail, Thou universal Savior, Who hast borne our sin and shame, By whose merits we find favor! Life is given through Thy name.

2. Paschal Lamb, by God appointed, All our sins on Thee were laid; By almighty love anointed, Thou hast full atonement made. Every sin may be forgiven Through the virtue of Thy blood; Open is the gate of heaven, Peace is made ‘twist man and God.

3. Jesus, hail, enthroned in glory, There forever to abide! All the heavenly host adore Thee, Seated at Thy Father’s side. There for sinners Thou art pleading, There Thou dost our place prepare, Ever for us interceding Till in glory we appear.

4. Worship, honor, power, and blessing Thou art worthy to receive; Loudest praises, without ceasing, Meet it is for us to give. Help, ye bright angelic spirits, Bring your sweetest, noblest lays; Help to sing our Savior’s merits, Help to chant Immanuel’s praise.

(Author unknown London 1757)

Posted in Herrenhuter Readings | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Changing times for the church or is it but more of the same?

Posted on June 27, 2015 by Wilhelm Weber

Lucas_Cranach_d.Ä._-_Adam_und_Eva_(Gemäldepaar),_Herzog_Anton_Ulrich-Museum

If I remember correctly we Lutherans from Hermannsburg’s Kleine Kreuzkirche were ultimately  kicked out of the Hanoverian State church because the Prussian king at that time was Reformed and the changes he brought about in those parts of Lower Saxony were opposed to the Lutheran way of doing things, which had been the way since the Lutheran Reformation centuries ago. Quite a number of people in those Welfen lands considered these Prussian reforms in state and church to be more of a forceful revolution, than just a legal reformation for the betterment and advancement as the king would have liked to have them understood. Just because you have the power to do something, does not mean that this your doing is right, good and salutary as such. It – like you – remains subject to higher judgement – even if you are king or some kind of tribal chief or something of that sort. The superior firing power of the Prussian war machine and the dominating multitude of Prussian grenadiers and mercenaries did not give him the right to change the old traditional and God pleasing ways. That’s why he was wrong and  therefore our forebears remained radically opposed to him and all his doings – especially his changes in the church. See, they were conservatives at heart and the Prussian king was seen as a radical revolutionary, who would not even stop at the innermost circle of faith issues, which deterimened their lives and traditions. Instead he was just turning these old and proven orders on their head and with that attacking the foundations of their very life and faith. Something more or less in line with Napoleon and other  political tyrants of that time.

See before this Prussian intervention it was all straight forward Lutheranism in Hannover – at least more or less and even though they were struggling against the ever growing threats of rationalism and other godlessness, but that’s how the people understood this and the congregation of Pastor Ludwig Harms and he himself were no exception in this opposition. They had followed the Lutheran Agenda of Lower Saxony/Hannover without any questions before. That was their church order. The same held true for the Lutheran Hymnal and Luther’s Small Catechism off course. The Prussian king however wanted to change this and change it, he did. He put the Heidelberg Catechism on the same par as that of Luther’s. He demanded that his reformed soldiers were admitted to the Lord’s supper even in Lutheran sanctuaries and during their divine services.

As if this was not bad and offensive enough for the Lutheran pastors like Ludwig Harms and his brother Theodor along with their congregations, the king went even further in his provocation than this – and this is what makes it so relevant even today – he wanted to change the legalities of marriage and take away the prerogative of the Church to declare man and women husband and wife in the name of the triune God Father Son and Holy Spirit and change and revolutionize this divine institution into but another legal contract and secular institution of this world and changing time.

In the Church the pastor is authorized and mandated to utter the command and divine law of our Lord and God: „What therefore God hath joined together, let not man pull asunder“ (Mk.10:9) Now through political intervention it was supposed to be but a legal and just temporary contract, built solely on mutual consent of humans and lasting about as long as theirs lasted too. We Lutherans believe this to be an illegal interfering of the secular powers into spiritual matters of the Church. Here the words and confession of St. Peter hold true: „We have to obey God more than men“ (Acts 5:29) The king had overreached his authority. He was not mandated to change these basic rights of the Church to have marriage solemnized by the command and promise of our Lord and God – before him and in front of the Christian congregation. Obviously the king had the political right and even the societal power to follow whatever precepts he wanted and got through his parliament, but and that was the key issue – the Lutherans would not follow him through on that. They were critical of his absolute powers and believed them to be subject to higher, divine law and command still. Yes, these would be his and the Prussian’s laws, but not theirs and not God’s sanctioned and blessed ways either. They believed in religious freedom. They believed and held high the divine right, responsibility and obligation to follow God’s word and their own conscience in matters of life and faith as Dr. Luther had stressed under great duress in Worms. That’s why they would rather give up the relatively safe haven of monarchial and whatever state support and rather live independently of state intervention and interference as free Lutheran congregations and Churches bound only and founded entirely on the saving truth of God’s most holy Word in both the Old and New Testament in accordance with the Lutheran Confessions as the true and binding exposition of this very true and saving Holy Word of God. Even if thus they were considered rather like outlaws and even hated by the people – not just those up there, but also by those around and with them. 

That’s why the Hermannsburg people, who were on the mission from God to proclaim this truth not only in their political rulers and ecclesial authorities, but right to the very ends of the world went to far and distant places like Hermannsburg near Alice Springs in Australia – right in the outback. Or to India and to Ethiopia, but also to Zululand. See it was not due to some cultural hegemony or in favour of colonial expansion of similar political ideas that they went out there, but rather to proclaim the salvation of the gospel of Jesus Christ to those, who did not know it before and who were at a definite loss with out it. It was a question of eternal life and death, salvation or damnation.

In the final analysis it’s not because you or I or somebody dreams up polygamy as to be an outdated, selfish and pagan expression of family life, but because God himself in his very Word declares that marriage is between but one man and wife – like between the bridegroom Christ and his beloved, chosen and sanctified bride the congregation. That is why polygamy – simultaneous or consecutive or parallel – remains out of bonds and adultery not acceptable to the faithful Christians and the new creation either. That’s why the Church will encourage married couples to remain together in good and bad times. That’s why the Church doesn’t have a licence to sanction divorce or call something marriage, which obviously does not deserve that description but is an abomination in the eyes of the Lord, because it doesn’t pass his criteria of holy matrimony and blessed union of husband and wife, which he instituted right back in the good old days of paradise at the very beginning of all things. This is not just about the law of the Land or some tribal chieftain, but rather the Law of God. That’s why Rome as long as they want to remain in the ways of the Lord and his holy Christian Church can’t just change this to suit some poll or social development even if all press campaigns for such change – and if the evangelical church so easily accommodates fluctuations in society it’s not because it’s so authentic and true, but because it just goes this and that way the wind blows it. It’s fickle, but not faithful. All the more reason to cry out with all those, who love the Church: „Lord have mercy!“

In the Logics class many years back the Philosophy professor enlightened us about the right, legality and authority to do this or that. The baptism „played“ by the little child with her doll is obviously not one, which is as sure here on earth as it is in heaven. The words are uttered, the ritual is practiced in astonishing resemblance of the real thing, but it is very far from being authentic. That’s why it’s not just about rhetorics, when the pastor reminds the congregation before the absolution: „I as a called and ordained servant of the Word – by the command of God and founded on his promises – forgive you all your sins“ or in the same way „… pronounce you husband and wife!“ It is not for the king or some queen to do or undo. He/she can’t marry dolls, animals or anything but a husband and wife into what is rightly called marriage. It’s not for some bureaucrat or political animal either to come up with some novel idea or unique connections and conjugations, but rather reserved to the called and ordained servants to do the right, meet and salutary thing called „wedding“ to „married life“. Otherwise it’s a revolution, but not a reform. An experiment or adventure, but not a sanctified and holy institution for the good and blessing of the individual man and/or women – nor for the human family as a whole.

Another story I remember was as vicar in Gr.Oesingen, when after the funeral the chief of the fire brigade stood up and at the grave said: “Go in peace!” Well, those words were probably quite pious and even full of feeling and heart-felt emotions, but lastly really quite empty and meaningless. What peace could he possible give? He had none to give. He was powerless at that grave just as he was powerless against the powers of sin, death and devil. He was just blowing against the wind. Whereas Jesus Christ said to his disciples and his church: “Receive the Holy Spirit …” (cf Joh 20:22) That is why his admonition is still so noteworthy: “Give to Caesar, what is Caesars and to God, what is God’s.” (cf Mt 22:21) That’s the fundamental difference, why in the Church we’re busy with God-given and holy facts and the very realities of life – and not just with rhetorics and vain ideologies of men. Jesus Christ and his Holy Spirit vouchsafe for that.

Our forebears in Hermannsburg knew what it was they believed in. The true Church does so even today. We can’t get the churches agenda from some political party or ideological mainstream, but are called to remain in what has been true from the very beginning: The Word of God remains in eternity and thanks to the living God the true Church too will remain always. Perhaps not here or there, but where and when it please God.

  1. Lord Jesus Christ, with us abide, For round us falls the eventide; Nor let Thy Word, that heavenly light, For us be ever veiled in night.

  2. In these last days of sore distress Grant us, dear Lord, true steadfastness That pure we keep, till life is spent, Thy holy Word and Sacrament.

  3. Lord Jesus, help, Thy Church uphold, For we are sluggish, thoughtless, cold.Oh, prosper well Thy Word of grace And spread its truth in every place!

  4. Oh, keep us in Thy Word, we pray; The guile and rage of Satan stay!Oh, may Thy mercy never cease! Give concord, patience, courage, peace.

  5. O God, how sin’s dread works abound! Throughout the earth no rest is found, And falsehood’s spirit wide has spread, And error boldly rears its head.

  6. The haughty spirits, Lord, restrain Who o’er Thy Church with might would reign And always set forth something new, Devised to change Thy doctrine true.

  7. And since the cause and glory, Lord, Are Thine, not ours, to us afford Thy help and strength and constancy. With all our heart we trust in Thee.

  8. A trusty weapon is Thy Word, Thy Church’s buckler, shield and sword. Oh, let us in its power confide That we may seek no other guide!

  9. Oh, grant that in Thy holy Word We here may live and die, dear Lord; And when our journey endeth here, Receive us into glory there. (Nikolaus Selnecker) 

Posted in Gedankensplitter | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Herrenhuter readings for Friday, the 26th June 2015

Posted on June 26, 2015 by Wilhelm Weber

kostel_1600

Sing, O heavens; and be joyful, O earth; and break forth into singing, O mountains: for the LORD hath comforted his people, and will have mercy upon his afflicted. (Isa 49:13 KJV) For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men. (Tit 2:11 KJV)

One of the most astonishing revelations reading the psalms was to see, how at the end of the most sorrowful lamentations the psalmist changes the tune from crying out loud mournings to expressing deep convictions and confessions of salvation and help. This morning the great prophet of the living God calls upon us together with all the heavens and entire world in unison with mountains and people to sing, be joyful and break forth with lovely music for the triune God and creator and saviour of all has comforted his people and will still continue to have mercy on the afflicted, downhearted and sorrowful. That’s the overriding cantus firmus of all divine proclamation from the very beginning to the very end: “The Lord has comforted his people and will have mercy upon his afflicted!” Recall it, recite it, remember it oh my soul and don’t forget it, or take it lightly or as of little consequence. It’s the very truth and foundation of your daily song, personal joy and life’s music. That changes everything and gives all a new and wonderful look. For the Lord’s comfort is true and overcomes our most awful afflictions – as surely as he is the living God and surely does, what he promises!

Now our calamity is and remains that we don’t see and believe this as clearly and surely as we should. For as the saintly apostle writes to his student and fellow bishop: “The grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men.” That should wipe away all doubt, disbelief and lack of faith. Yet our eyes are so poor and our heart’s condition so miserable that we don’t see and grasp it as we should. God’s grace in Jesus Christ, the very lamb of God, who carries the sins of the world stands sure and firm as is to be expected of the Lord and God of all, the creator of everything visible and invisible, the saviour of the world and final judge, very centre and supreme good and goal of all in all eternity. He has appeared to all and everybody. His creation, which bears his clear signature and unfailing imprint is proclaiming this daily in all and everything. Nobody is excluded from his grace and his salvation is intended for all and everybody. That’s why the Church goes out and makes disciples of all nations even today – preaching all and everything he has entrusted to her, baptizing them in the name of the Father and Son and Holy Spirit for the forgiveness of sins and eternal life and blessed salvation. That is to overcome our sinful blindness and the callousness of our hearts so that we may believe and be saved. This holds true to the ends of the world and even until the very end of the world. At that time we’ll at last see the grace of God bringing salvation clearly in his glorious son Jesus Christ, who will then judge the living and the dead once and for all.

Until then the message goes out concerning the universal grace and mercy of our God, who forgives sins and all iniquity, does not hold those against us, but for his son’s sake forgives it all and for good – so that we may walk free and joyfully – saved by his divine grace and goodness, which covers up for all our blindness and lack of faith too. So let’s sing to his glorious name and praise his mercy and goodness, which is new every morning, and make music to God in the highest: Soli Deo Gloria +

  1. Oh, for a thousand tongues to sing My great Redeemer’s praise, The glories of my god and King, The triumphs of his grace!
  2. My gracious Master and my God, Assist me to proclaim, To spread through all the earth abroad  The honours of your name.
  3. The name of Jesus charms our fears And bids our sorrows cease, Sings music in the sinner’s ears, Brings life and health and peace.
  4. He breaks the power of cancelled sin; He sets the prisoner free. His blood can make the foulest clean; His blood avails for me.
  5. Look to the Lord, who did atone For sin, O fallen race. Look and be saved through faith alone, Be justified by grace.
  6. See all our sins on Jesus laid; The Lamb has made us whole. His soul was once an offering made For every human soul.
  7. To God all glory, praise, and love Be now and ever given By saints below and saints above The Church in earth and heaven.

Charles Wesley, 1707-1788

Posted in Herrenhuter Readings | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Lutheran Order of service in isiZulu and seTswana

Posted on June 25, 2015 by Wilhelm Weber

Christ_Taking_Leave_of_the_Apostles

The Lutheran Order of Service for the 4th Sunday after Trinity is available here in isiZulu and seTswana. Today it comes with a sermon based on God’s Word from the Holy Gospel of St. Luke in the 6th chapter verses 36-42 written by my father Rev. E.A.W.Weber DD (Welbedacht, KZN) into both isiZulu () and seTswana ().

The readings for the 4th Sunday after Trinity are:

  • Old Testament:       Genesis 50:15-21
  • The Epistle:            Romans 14:10-13
  • The Gospel:            St. Luke 6:36-42
  • Psalm:                    22:24a.25-27a

The liturgical colour is green.

May you have a very blessed weekend and have time to meditate on the watchword for the 4th Sunday after Trinity: Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. (Gal 6:2 KJV)

A collect for the 4th Sunday after Trinity: O Lord, grant that the course of this world may be so peaceably ordered by Your governance that Your Church may joyfully serve You in all godly quietness; through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. (Pastoral Companion 593)

If you are called to preach this weekend, may the triune God give you joy and strength, wisdom, knowledge and insight – and the true words and pictures to preach his holy will faithfully according to his most precious revelation of his will and promises in both the Old and New Testament! However if you are not preaching, but listening – then listen as if God is talking to you + His precious gospel is “the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes.” (Rom 1:16 NIV)

We thank the Lutheran Heritage Foundation for supporting the distribution of hard-copies of these orders of worship and sermons throughout Southern Africa. If you also want a copy please do not hesitate to subscribe by writing to EAWWeber@bundunet.co.za.

Posted in Lutheran Order of service | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Herrenhuter readings for Thursday, the 25th June 2015

Posted on June 25, 2015 by Wilhelm Weber

Prodigal Son by Eugene Burnand

Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you.  (Isa 30:18 NIV) Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. (Rev 3:20 KJV)

It is the image of the Father looking for his lost son combined with the only begotten Son Jesus Christ, who remained at home with the Father, but then went out in the power of the Holy Spirit – left his very own for us and our salvation – and became man like one of us from the holy mother of God, the very blessed Virgin Mary, so that he might seek and save the lost. He and the Father are one and they have the very same mind and approach in this most central mission of theirs: The mission of grace, forgiveness and bringing home, those long gone and away – so that they too will sit at the table with Abraham and all other patriarchs, prophets of old and most holy apostles, martyrs and faithful Christians from across the globe – for they all are children of the heavenly Father and siblings of our most precious brother, saviour and Lord Jesus Christ.

These biblical images of divine longing, waiting, looking forward to and awaiting the return of the children is wonderful and delightful. Perhaps as parent you know the feeling of great expectation when the children are about to return home. Whereas with us there are always some selfish motives and even sinful parts to the deal, the triune God is pure, innocent and truly holy – even as he awaits our eventual return and final homecoming. For him its all about us and our salvation. That’s what he longs for. That’s what he strives for. That is his hearts desire and innermost motivation for inviting to the great banquet and glorious wedding feast, when at last the bridegroom will take home his most beloved bride – the holy Christian Church – to be with her and she with him and nothing will ever separate them again.

That is why he is still sending out his messengers, ambassadors, missionaries, evangelists, teachers, bishops, theologians, envoys and servants out to the streets and byways of the world, the great cities and wayward rural places: Come – for the feast is prepared – the Lord of all and King of kings is calling you: Come and see, how friendly your God is + Come, taste and enjoy the  divine communion prepared for you by him and all his angels + Come home and be at peace in blessed union with God and all his people.  He has done it all and we are called to enjoy it now and forever. Amen.

  1. Dear Christians, one and all, rejoice, With exultation springing, And, with united heart and voice And holy rapture singing, Proclaim the wonders God hath done, How His right arm the victory won; Right dearly it hath cost Him.
  2. Fast bound in Satan’s chains I lay, Death brooded darkly o’er me, Sin was my torment night and day, In sin my mother bore me; Yea, deep and deeper still I fell, Life had become a living hell, So firmly sin possessed me.
  3. My own good works availed me naught, No merit they attaining; Free will against God’s judgment fought, Dead to all good remaining. My fears increased till sheer despair Left naught but death to be my share; The pangs of hell I suffered.
  4. But God beheld my wretched state Before the world’s foundation, And, mindful of His mercies great, He planned my soul’s salvation. A father’s heart He turned to me, Sought my redemption fervently: He gave His dearest Treasure.
  5. He spoke to His beloved Son: ‘Tis time to have compassion. Then go, bright Jewel of My crown, And bring to man salvation; From sin and sorrow set him free, Slay bitter death for him that he May live with Thee forever.
  6. This Son obeyed His Father’s will, Was born of virgin mother, And God’s good pleasure to fulfill, He came to be my Brother. No garb of pomp or power He wore, A servant’s form, like mine, He bore, To lead the devil captive.
  7. To me He spake: Hold fast to Me, I am thy Rock and Castle; Thy Ransom I Myself will be, For thee I strive and wrestle; For I am with thee, I am thine, And evermore thou shalt be Mine; The Foe shall not divide us.
  8. The Foe shall shed My precious blood, Me of My life bereaving. All this I suffer for thy good; Be steadfast and believing. Life shall from death the victory win, My innocence shall bear thy sin; So art thou blest forever.
  9. Now to My Father I depart, The Holy Spirit sending And, heavenly wisdom to impart, My help to thee extending. He shall in trouble comfort thee, Teach thee to know and follow Me, And in all truth shall guide thee.
  10. What I have done and taught, teach thou, My ways forsake thou never; So shall My kingdom flourish now And God be praised forever. Take heed lest men with base alloy The heavenly treasure should destroy; This counsel I bequeath thee.

Hymn 387 The Lutheran Hymnal (TLH) Text: Rom. 3: 28. Dr.  Martin Luther, 1483-1546 translated by: Richard Massie, 1854, alt. Titled: “Nun freut euch, liebe Christen g’mein“

Posted in Herrenhuter Readings | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Herrenhuter readings for Wednesday, the 24th June 2015

Posted on June 24, 2015 by Wilhelm Weber

4164-original

Turn, O backsliding children, saith the LORD; for I am married unto you: and I will take you one of a city, and two of a family, and I will bring you to Zion: (Jer 3:14 KJV) In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. (Mat 3:1-2 KJV)

Sounds like fun: “Backsliding”. Awakens memories of sliding down garden embankments as a child and down sandy dunes later. Yet backsliding is something else – and it’s not funny, no child’s play but risky business and even life threatening. Yes, if not stopped and reversed in good time its damning and has deadly outcomes for sure. See, our good and loving God – the heavenly Father – has created us to be his own. In his Son Jesus Christ he has called us to live in his kingdom as his holy people. That’s what the Holy Spirit’s business is about day in day out – calling, enlightening, keeping us in unison with the holy Trinity and in the true faith.   For the living God has not just affiliated us loosely to himself, but rather married to us – and what God has joined together let man not pull asunder. Backsliding in this matter would be like adultery and that’s just another biblical image for the most contemptuous and abominable idolatry. Not fun stuff, but deadly business – even if it looks different in our eyes!

That’s why the living God calls the tempted and even fallen backsliders to turn, to repent and to remain with him and his grace and goodness. It’s this very grace and goodness, that makes him call us back out of sinful lives, faithlessness and deathly unbelief. He’s out to get us back in the good sense of this Sunday’s gospel message – the good shepherd seeking and finding that lost sheep and to return it on his shoulders and in his arms to where it belongs – home and in the sanctuary of the holy Christian Church and divine family. That’s why he sent out apostles and prophets like the saint John the Baptist: “Repent ye: For the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” That’s why even today pastors, evangelists, missionaries, teachers, bishops and other elders carry out that inviting message: “Turn, o backsliding children!”

God’s call is effective. Thanks to it, there are people heeding the divine call throughout the world. They not only listen, but through this very word of invitation, but also reprimand and warning are brought back from the brink and even out of the depths of woe and deaths dark vale into the heavenly realms and blessed sanctuaries of God’s holy presence and blessed activity. They are returned to the city of God – the holy city of Zion – the blessed and beloved Church, the very centre of God’s gracious ministry and saving service: Your sins are forgiven. Depart in peace + Not to leave God’s presence, but to carry on with our daily lives in his healing and saving presence – now and always. Amen.

  1. Jesus sinners doth receive; May they all this saying ponder Who in sin’s delusions live And from God and heaven wander! Here is hope for all who grieve: Jesus sinners doth receive.
  2. We deserve but grief and shame, Yet his words, rich grace revealing, Pardon, peace, and life proclaim. Here our ills have perfect healing; We with humble hearts believe Jesus sinners doth receive.
  3. When their sheep have lost their way, Faithful shepherds go to seek them; Jesus watches all who stray, Faithfully to find and take them In his arms that they may live Jesus sinners doth receive.
  4. Come, O sinners, one and all, Come, accept his invitation; Come, obey his gracious call, Come and take his free salvation! Firmly in these words believe: Jesus sinners doth receive.
  5. Jesus sinners doth receive. Even me he has forgiven; And when I this earth must leave, I shall find an open heaven. Dying, still to him I cleave Jesus sinners doth receive.

Lutheran Worship 229 by: Erdmann Neumeister (1671-1756) Tune: Meinen Jesum lass ich nicht

Posted in Herrenhuter Readings | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Herrenhuter readings for Tuesday, the 23rd June 2015

Posted on June 23, 2015 by Wilhelm Weber

Claude_Monet_-_The_Magpie

Thou hast put gladness in my heart, more than in the time that their corn and their wine increased. (Psa 4:7 KJV) Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. (Phi 4:11 KJV)

Rejoicing in times of harvest and when the treasures and vaults are filled seems natural and easy. In today’s reading from Psalm 4 a more complex relation is touched on and the various translations try to come to grips with this tension. On the one side is the gladness in the heart of the psalmist and on the other side is the increase of corn and wine of “others” – family, friends or rivals. Whereas the KJV uses this as a plain comparison, Luther puts it in stark contrast: I rejoice even though they have plenty. This reminds of the conflict and temptation to doubt God’s goodness and faithfulness when the godless prosper and flourish as is described in Psalms 37 and 73 for instance.

In any case the psalmist makes it clear that it is God, who puts gladness in my heart. He makes me content, joyful and at peace. The wonderful thing is that God does this often even in the most desperate situations. Even when the faithful live in stressful times as Daniel in the lion’s den, Joseph in the Egyptian slavery and prison, Jacob in exile and hard done by his father-in-law, St. Paul’s in the dungeon of Philippi or the African treasurer in lonely stretches of desert and parched lands – it’s by God’s grace and mercy that they can rejoice and go their way joyfully and with gratitude in their hearts. The gifted songwriter Paul Gerhard puts it into the memorable words: “Gibt schöne rote Wangen oft bei geringem Mahl und die da sind gefangen, die führt er aus der Qual!“ (He gives a delightful complection even with poor meals and the prisoners are relieved from their suffering)

St.Paul summarizes the result of this wonderful doing of our living God with the word “contentment”. This is God’s gift and he creates this in good and in bad times, in times of riches and poverty, in captivity and liberty – always and everywhere he lets all things serve to our best (Rom.8:31ff). Here he phrases it: “I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” (Phi 4:12-13 KJV)

It’s not what we have or don’t have. It’s not about what we have done or still can do. It’s not about our situation past or present, but rather all about Christ Jesus in and with us all the days of our life. Being in him and belonging to him and his life and destination frees us from the contextualities and eventualities of this time and age – lifts us beyond these strictures and human boundaries even as we are still very much bound up in this body and time. He let’s me dwell in safety and at peace. Amen.

We pray with the Psalmist: Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness: thou hast enlarged me when I was in distress; have mercy upon me, and hear my prayer. O ye sons of men, how long will ye turn my glory into shame? how long will ye love vanity, and seek after leasing? But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the LORD will hear when I call unto him. Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the LORD. There be many that say, Who will shew us any good? LORD, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us. Thou hast put gladness in my heart, more than in the time that their corn and their wine increased. I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety. (Psa 4:1-8 KJV)

  1. If God Himself be for me, I may a host defy; For when I pray, before me My foes, confounded, fly. If Christ, my Head and Master, Befriend me from above, What foe or what disaster Can drive me from His love?
  2. This I believe, yea, rather, Of this I make my boast, That God is my dear Father, The Friend who loves me most, And that, whate’er betide me, My Saviour is at hand Through stormy seas to guide me And bring me safe to land.
  3. I build on this foundation, That Jesus and His blood Alone are my salvation, The true, eternal good. Without Him all that pleases Is valueless on earth; The gifts I owe to Jesus Alone my love are worth.
  4. My Jesus is my Splendour, My Sun, my Light, alone; Were He not my Defender Before God’s awe-full throne, I never should find favour And mercy in His sight, But be destroyed forever As darkness by the light.
  5. He cancelled my offenses, Delivered me from death; He is the Lord who cleanses My soul from sin through faith. In Him I can be cheerful, Bold, and undaunted aye; In Him I am not fearful Of God’s great Judgment Day.
  6. Naught, naught, can now condemn me Nor set my hope aside; Now hell no more can claim me, Its fury I deride. No sentence e’er reproves me, No ill destroys my peace; For Christ, my Saviour, loves me And shields me with His grace.
  7. His Spirit in me dwelleth, And o’er my mind He reigns. All sorrow He dispelleth And soothes away all pains. He crowns His work with blessing And helpeth me to cry, “My Father!” without ceasing, To Him who dwells on high.
  8. And when my soul is lying Weak, trembling, and opprest, He pleads with groans and sighing That cannot be exprest; But God’s quick eye discerns them, Although they give no sound, And into language turns them E’en in the heart’s deep ground.
  9. To mine His Spirit speaketh Sweet word of holy cheer, How God to him that seeketh For rest is always near And how He hath erected A city fair and new, Where what our faith expected We evermore shall view.
  10. In yonder home doth flourish My heritage, my lot; Though here I die and perish, My heaven shall fail me not. Though care my life oft saddens And causeth tears to flow, The light of Jesus gladdens And sweetens every woe.
  11. Who clings with resolution To Him whom Satan hates Must look for persecution; For him the burden waits Of mockery, shame, and losses, Heaped on his blameless head; A thousand plagues and crosses Will be his daily bread.
  12. From me this is not hidden, Yet I am not afraid; I leave my cares, as bidden, To whom my vows were paid. Though life and limb it cost me And everything I won, Unshaken shall I trust Thee And cleave to Thee alone.
  13. Though earth be rent asunder, Thou’rt mine eternally; Not fire nor sword nor thunder Shall sever me from Thee; Not hunger, thirst, nor danger, Not pain nor poverty Nor mighty princes’ anger Shall ever hinder me.
  14. No angel and no gladness, No throne, no pomp, no show, No love, no hate, no sadness, No pain, no depth of woe, No scheme of man’s contrivance, However small or great, Shall draw me from Thy guidance Nor from Thee separate.
  15. My heart for joy is springing And can no more be sad, ‘Tis full of mirth and singing, Sees naught but sunshine glad. The Sun that cheers my spirit Is Jesus Christ, my King; That which I shall inherit Makes me rejoice and sing.

Hymn #528  The Lutheran Hymnal Rom. 8:31-39 Author: Paul Gerhardt, 1607-1676 Translated by  Richard Massie, 1857: Ist Gott für mich, so trete gleich alles hinter…

Posted in Herrenhuter Readings | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Herrenhuter readings for Monday, the 22nd June 2015

Posted on June 22, 2015 by Wilhelm Weber

winterscape_snow

You provide a broad path for my feet, so that my ankles do not give way. (2Sa 22:37 NIV) As Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector’s booth. “Follow me,” he told him, and Matthew got up and followed him. (Mat 9:9 NIV)

Looking back on Father’s Day gives another chance to view the wonderful and miraculous way the triune God has led us throughout our lives. From our very first steps and even before that when we couldn’t even walk yet, but crawled around inquisitively he has already kept his watchful eyes over us so that we would not come to harm. The Holy Scriptures inform us that God did this gracious and merciful work of watching over us and keeping and preserving us even before we started thinking about this and as we just lay helplessly in some cot or in our mother’s arms after having been conceived in hidden places. God makes it clear that from the very beginning, he was focussed on us with loads of love and caring goodness – making sure that we would become who we are – living in trusting and grateful faith all the days of our life. For it is God himself, who provides a broad path for us and our endangered feet, so that our feet don’t slip, stumble or give way in some way or another. Rather by his grace and goodness we are to walk our path safe and sound – his rod and staff comfort me. And even if we should stumble or fall, he’s there to hold and keep us protected and in good care. Nothing can snatch us from his fatherly hands.

This holds true in our daily lives from the very earliest of days and throughout our toil and sojourning here on earth – be it now seventy or eighty years (or only 30 or 20 for that matter!), but especially as we follow his calling into his service and mission. St. Matthew was one of the first, who was called by our Lord Jesus Christ into his fellowship and lifelong discipleship. And although our Lord and saviour’s words hold true for him and us as for St. Peter: “Very truly I tell you, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” (Joh 21:18 NIV) Even then our Lord provides, granting sure footing and safe passage even as our feet grow feeble, start to falter and stumble along – for he leads and guides us for his very name’s sake. Ensuring that we reach our heavenly destination – our lives goal thanks to his goodness and loving care. Amen.

  1. Jesus, lead Thou on  Till our rest is won;  And although the way be cheerless, We will follow calm and fearless. Guide us by Thy hand  To our fatherland.
  1. If the way be drear, If the foe be near, Let not faithless fears o’ertake us; Let not faith and hope forsake us; For through many a woe To our home we go.
  1. When we seek relief  From a long-felt grief; When temptations come alluring, Make us patient and enduring; Show us that bright shore Where we weep no more.
  1. Jesus, lead Thou on Till our rest is won. Heavenly Leader, still direct us,  Still support, control, protect us, Till we safely stand  In our fatherland.

The Lutheran Hymnal Hymn #410  Text: Luke 5:1 Author: Cento by Christian Gregor, 1778 translated by: Jane Borthwick, 1854, alt.  Titled: “Jesu, geh voran” Composer: Adam Drese, 1697 Tune: “Seelenbräutigam”.

Posted in Herrenhuter Readings | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment