Epiphany 2 2012

[John 2:1-11; Exodus 33:12-33; Ephesians 5:22-33]

When Moses asked to see the LORD’S glory as a sign and promise, he desired to know that God was still in covenant fellowship with him. He wanted to know that he and the people were the LORD’s chosen. The revelation of God’s glory was fully revealed in the Son of God, and his eternal fellowship with us as bride and bridegroom. Marriage is reflection of the glorious grace and mercy of God, lived out in our own homes. From the marriage of Christ and church we learn what it is to be a faithful husband or wife. In our marriage we learn how to love in the way that God has loved us in Jesus.

Listen to the sermon: Divine Service 2012-01-14

The Baptism of Our Lord 2012 – Matthew 3:13-17

When Jesus came to John to be baptized, John tried to prevent him. Jesus gives John a short answer “let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” What does Jesus mean? How is this unique Baptism a unique event in the whole of history? The old types and figures are assumed into Jesus. From Jesus new and saving waters spring forth. Water once destroyed, now saves. Listen: Divine Service 2012-01-13

Epiphany 1 2012 – Luke 2:41-52

The LORD is in His holy temple. The tabernacle and temple has their relics and visible presence of YHWH. Do we have the same? Where is the true presence of YHWH today? Where is Jesus today? This is the same question. Jesus is manifest through tangible, worldly, and visible in preaching and the Holy Sacraments. It is fitting for us to set apart a sanctuary to hear and receive. When we do, we are not conformed to the world but transformed by Christ. Thus, our worship is not different that the temple or heaven. It is worship with the Lord, singing, conducting liturgy, and receiving His blessing. Listen to the sermon here: Divine Service 2012-01-07