(Revelation 21:1-7). The message is one of hope for John’s persecuted people and for us. The person who stands firm, who conquers in his language here, will be in this band of festive-clad people. This sermon was preached on the Fifth Sunday of Easter and on Confirmation Day (May 18, 2025) for our congregation.

Psalm 23

Psalm 23 reveals three reasons why we need this Good Shepherd: He knows our needs, transforms our lives, and brings us home in thankfulness. Today we are celebrating that Jesus is our Good Shepherd.

Acts 9:1–22

Saul meets Jesus, and everything changes. We meet Jesus, and everything changes. Meeting Jesus, Risen and Alive, Makes a Difference in Every Area of Life.

(Philippians 3:8-14 ). St. Paul had violently opposed God’s Son (Phil 3:6), but now he had discovered that the true inheritance was “the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (3:14, emphasis added). What we know our future to be can actually change our present.

(Philippians 3:17-4:1). Models of faithful following of Jesus are significant parts of the Holy Spirit’s bringing up God’s children in the way that they are to go. We learn to follow Paul’s example in walking Christ’s way in the family, the congregation of his people.

(Luke 4:1-13) The Holy Spirit drives Jesus into the wilderness and leads Him into temptation and victory. That same Spirit of God, poured out by Jesus, unites me to His victory. I need to participate in that victory of Christ.

(Luke 9:28-36) The three “inner circle” disciples witnessed the transfiguration of their Lord, heard God the Father’s voice, looked upon Jesus who was found alone and then we are told that they kept silent. What? Yes! It may be a bit counterintuitive, but we also carry an open secret until an opportune time comes to share it.

(Genesis 45:3-15) Joseph embraces his brothers, weeps, and they finally talk. Even in their sinful attempt to murder him, God was saving lives. Relationships can be restored. God is at work even in the most difficult of places right now. How can we see even the worst things of life as occasions when God works for the good of people, often despite the actions of people?

How can we enjoy the good things of life without turning them into idols? Jesus gives an “orientation flight” to his disciples and to us, so that we remember to keep Him as our top priority, find our way back home to God and give orientation flights also for our children, grandchildren and others.

(Luke 5:1-11) Peter returned to his boats and the fishing he had already once left. Jesus found him there, called him, and gave him a new purpose. Yes, he would follow, but he would also fish for men.  If you are going to follow Jesus, just be ready because you are following a God of surprises.