Praise Band Director Dan Lamaestra and Director of Christian Education (and Praise Band member) Andy Muich talk about “Forever Reign.” Listen as they delve into the polarity-based approach to the lyrics and music. Andy focuses on verses in Psalms and Lamentations that are echoed in the lyrics. At the end of the podcast, our Praise Band performs the song. (Words and music by Jason Ingram, Reuben Morgan. © 2009 Hillsong Music Publishing CCLI #858354)

*To listen to the song first, go to the 30 min mark.

We often hear phrases like “The wind is calling me to . . .” or “I hear a voice calling me to . . .” In today’s Gospel, Jesus calls four fisherman to follow Him and spread the Good News of His saving grace. In today’s message, Pastor James asks us to consider how will we answer when we hear Jesus say, “Follow me.” Will we let our light shine amid the dimness of the world today? Will the light of Christ’s love shine bright as we respond to the call – “Follow me”?

What does it mean to be a Christian man? To answer this question, Pastor Johann suggests looking at the example provided by Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus. The biblical record about Joseph indicates that he was humble, faithful, sacrificing, serving, giving. In this Midweek Recharge, Pastor Johann explores the Christian character and points out that the qualities we see in Joseph are also those of all genuine Christians. Listen to music provided by Dan Lamaestra as you ponder this message.

God calls out to all Christ followers – not just to professional church workers and pastors – and we want to be ready to listen. In this sermon, Pastor Johann helps us learn these things from the story of young Samuel: God wants to speak to us; we don’t always hear very well; God speaks to us through His Word and through Jesus; and God is patient with us. We pray that, with Samuel, we would respond, “Speak, for your servant is listening.” 

Baptism is much more than a naming ceremony. In this Midweek Recharge, Pastor Johann explains that in Baptism, God Himself is present and bestows forgiveness, life, and salvation on his new, beloved child, born again of water and the Spirit. Heaven is opened to us when we are baptized. And every day, we are strengthened by these blessings. Thank God for His gift of Holy Baptism. At the end of the devotion, consider what you’ve heard as pianist Laura Owens provides music.

When we look at Jesus “Through the Eyes of the Wise Men,” what do we see? We glimpse Jesus’ mission, its scope, and our role in it. As Pastor Jon Diefenthaler reminds us in this message, Jesus came to live in our broken world and, through his life, death, and resurrection, gives to the entire world the hope of new life. We extend that mission today by supporting organizations such as Lutheran World Relief, which helps people in troubled parts of the world.

Many of us begin each new year with a list of resolutions. In this Midweek Recharge, Pastor Johann offers three new habits or goals to consider making a part of your life: Reflect all year long (not just at the end of the year); live generously; and grow closer to God. At the end of the devotion, consider what you’ve heard as pianist Laura Owens provides music.

Looking into the manger this Christmas, did you pause to reflect on what you saw in the face of the Baby? Did you see just the face of a baby, or did you see God with a human face? In Pastor James's message, we look into the face of the Baby - God with a human face - and see that we can have that same face, too.

As we continue to celebrate the Christmas season, please enjoy this Midweek Recharge, “Music of the Season,” presented by the Good Shepherd Music Ministry, and especially curated by music director Nemeh Azzam.

The “Nunc Dimittis” – sometimes called the Song of Simeon, sometimes referred to as “Peaceful Dismissal” – is a part of the Christian liturgy that occurs near the end of the worship service. While a dismissal can seem like the end of something, Pastor Johann in this message talks about how the Nunc Dimittis applies to our everyday lives as well: It’s OK to doubt; Joy comes in the waiting; Share your light with others. Be God’s gift to others this very week.