Most of us would agree that the Small Catechism is an invaluable resource. Our churches subscribe to it as a faithful expression of Scripture. Yet, that being said, it doesn’t seem to be used for much outside of confirmation instruction. As much as we value it, I think that most of us have a difficult time teaching it in our home.
Something Wonderful! The Easter Story
Reading books to young children, with their eyes full of wonder and discovery, must be one of the most delightful tasks an adult can experience. Whether from the lyrical rhythm of words or the telling illustrations, the responsive zeal of children is contagious.
Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross
It’s easy for me to look forward to Easter so much that I feel impatient with Lent. Nancy Guthrie, author, grief counselor, and Bible teacher, understands. She was concerned that many of us miss out on the full significance of Easter when we fail to contemplate the cross.
The Augsburg Confession: Its Meaning for Our Day
Christianity Today released an article in October 2018, highlighting an alarming report from Ligonier Ministries. It noted, “More than two-thirds (69%) of Americans disagree that the smallest sin deserves eternal damnation. . . .” Putting the most charitable construction on the findings of the report, the state of theology in America today is confused. Well-intentioned people are revisiting ancient teachings the Church has deemed heretical. That being said, how does the average church member protect himself from being led into one of these teachings?
Devotional Thoughts
When you hear the name of Carl Olof Rosenius, you may think of his classic titles, The Believer Free from the Law, A Faithful Guide to Peace with God, or his devotional resource, Day by Day with God. But few are aware of his two-volume resource, Devotional Thoughts, which provides six months of devotional readings in each volume.
The Heritage Series
“Convictions, unless discussed and taught, die.” These words were penned by Rev. John Strand more than 25 years ago. They are words that convey the importance of teaching our biblical Lutheran heritage. Words that express a grave possibility if teaching is neglected.
Counting to Christmas: Family Advent Devotions and Calendar
Advent is a wonderful time of the year filled with joy, wonder, and anticipation. It is a time we prepare our hearts and focus on our need of a Savior and God filling that need by sending His one and only perfect Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe
In C.S. Lewis’ The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, four siblings travel to the English countryside to escape World War II. But when the children stumble through a magical wardrobe into Narnia, they quickly realize they have escaped one war only to be embroiled in a new one. Except this time, there are umbrella-carrying fauns, bickering beavers, a prophecy that the four siblings will rule Narnia, and a wicked witch determined to enslave them all.
Come, Lord Jesus! An Advent Devotional for All God’s Children
Advent season is a time when many families change from their regular devotional material to Scripture readings that emphasize the beautiful prophecies of our Savior and the Gospel accounts of His birth. This season is also the busiest time of year for many families, and an Advent devotional guide can help us slow down and take comfort in God’s Word and His promises.
Echo: Unbroken Truth. Worth Repeating. Again.
Certain words can create strong reactions in people. Something about the verb “blanch” makes me not hungry anymore. Maybe there’s a new diet idea.
Sadly, this also happens when talking about the most basic teachings of Christianity. Notice, I didn’t say “doctrines.” I don’t want to lose your attention.
Amazing Grace for a Woman’s Heart / Loved Beyond Measure
Life is busy. In between all the tasks we try to accomplish each day and all the roles we are trying to fill, it can be hard to spend the amount of time we’d like to in devotions each week. Regardless of how much we know we need that time each day with God, it’s amazing how quickly everything else can come between us and Him. This is why small devotional booklets like Amazing Grace for a Woman’s Heartand Loved Beyond Measure can serve such a great purpose, giving us a few brief moments to stop and turn our focus back to God.
Baptism & Spiritual Life
Dr. Iver Olson gave a series of lectures in 1951 on the subject, “Baptism and the Spiritual Life.” From those lectures, we have this little book of the same title. Do not let the length of the book (86 pages) deceive you; it is a helpful study of pertinent biblical texts regarding Baptism.