In the notes of The Lutheran Study Bible the Gospel Reading is summarized with these words: “Jesus descends from the Transfiguration and meets a defiant demon, an anxious father, an astonished crowd, and despairing disciples.” Defiance. Anxiety. Astonishment. And despair. These words could easily describe many of our situations today as well. And given encounters with unmitigated evil in our times, as disciples of our Lord Jesus we too can quickly give in to despair…
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Grace Notes 2024-09-18On a good day I realize and will admit that I am getting older. Sometimes my body helps me to be reminded. And I am realizing that there are benefits to growing older. The inevitability of going the way of all the earth sets in. Oddly, that can make the present moment more precious. Likewise, it can help set the mind and heart on the things that really matter.
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Isa 55:8-9).
As Lutherans we faithfully teach that God’s Law has three functions. In shorthand the three uses are often taught: As a curb, as a mirror, and as a guide.