blogging the Small Catechism
Luther's Small Catechism is one of the most beloved gifts of the Church used through the centuries since the Reformation to pass down the Christian faith. For all too many, it is a tool used during Confirmation class and then tossed aside to gather dust. Luther didn't intend for it to be used this way. Generations of faithful . . .
collect for Trinity 14
Lord God, heavenly Father, who by Thy blessed word and Thy holy baptism hast mercifully cleansed all who believe from the fearful leprosy of sin, and daily dost grant us Thy gracious help in all our need: We beseech Thee so to enlighten our hearts by Thy Holy Spirit, that we may never forget these Thy blessings, but ever live in Thy . . .
Posted in: prayer
on praying through the Psalter
It is hard not to love the Psalms. They are earthy and real. They show human emotion at its most soaring and its most base. They are simultaneously reverent and painfully honest. They are worshipful and heart-felt. There is something in the Psalms to suit every emotion, every circumstance, and every season of life. It is a mine of riches . . .
on Pentecost
deeds, creeds, and the Holy Spirit
What help to us are Jesus' birth, life, suffering, and death; what help to us are His victory, His resurrection, ascension, and sitting at the right hand of the Father; what help to us are our knowledge and worship of God and Baptism and Communion, if the Holy Spirit does not come into our heart and create a living faith there? For . . .
faith in faith or faith in Christ
Living in Texas, Christianity here is highly influenced by revivalism and its decision-theology. Even traditions and denominations that reject this belief and practice can't help but be influenced by it, even if only to interact with other Christians around them. Yesterday some life-long Christians were asking about conversion experiences . . .
on being slow to speak
I have often repented of having spoken, but never of having been silent.
-- Abba Arsenius the Great
Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak...
-- James
This counsel, from both Holy Scripture and this saint of old, remind us of a great truth. Too often we . . .
on who works in worship
and why you should care
Every time a Barna survey comes out describing church attendance in America the numbers show a small but steady decline. There is no denying the trend. And, to be honest, I think this phenomenon is one we church leaders have created. Specifically, over the last couple decades, our churches and church planting efforts have more often . . .
