Monday, June 22, 2009

June 21, 2009 - 3rd Sunday after Pentecost

Due to the English District Convention being held in Hales Corners, WI, Dr. Thomas Kraus (pastor emeritus of Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church) was asked to preach and preside at the Divine Service on June 21. Dr. Kraus preached on the Gospel Reading for the day, the account of Jesus calming the storm on the Sea of Galilee (Mark 4:35-41).

St. Mark's account includes the question from the disciples who witnessed Jesus' actions: "Who then is this, that even wind and sea obey Him?" The answer gets to the heart of who Jesus is: the incarnate Son of God, through whom all things were made. It is important to know this answer, for then one knows who their Redeemer is. He who made the world also took residence in His creation, becoming man, so that He could give salvation to sinners like you and me. Even the wind and the sea obey Jesus, for they are subservient to Him. What He speaks must be obeyed. And that same dynamic word is spoken to you and me. So we may trust that the words of Jesus will be fulfilled when He says: "You are redeemed. Your salvation has been accomplished. You are forgiven. You are My people. You will have a place in the new heaven and new earth." So may you hear and believe.

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