PLUNGE READINGS FOR JANUARY 25, 2009

What would you do if you knew today would be your last day on earth? “I’m but a stranger here – Heaven is my home” (Lutheran Service Book, pg 748). God tells us our time is short and this earth will pass away (1 Corinthians 7:29-31). So what do we do? I suppose one could fret and hang on tight to the things of this world as long as we can, but that won’t make it last forever and it’s not what God wants for us. In this weeks readings, God tells us to: listen to the message HE proclaims - repent and believe (Jonah 3:1-5, 40), rest and trust in Him ALONE as our rock and our salvation (Psalm 62), and follow His Son (Mark 1:14-20). Jesus Christ – our Jonah (Luke 11:28-30) suffered, died, and rose again to conquer sin, death, and the power of the devil – thereby assuring that when this earth passes away, we, by Grace through faith, have an eternal home in Heaven. We can enjoy the blessings God gives us this side of heaven, but we must look beyond them, standing firm on the saving Gospel of Jesus Christ, as we look forward to the eternal blessings we have through Jesus.

Prayer: “Lord, keep us steadfast in Your Word, curb those who by deceit or sword, would wrest the kingdom from Your Son and bring to naught all He has done. Lord Jesus Christ Your power make known for you are Lord of Lords alone. Defend your Holy Church that we may (Lutheran Service Book pg 655 vrs 1 and 2)

Church Season – 3rd Sunday in Epiphany
Week ending: JANUARY 25, 2009

Monday – (Old Testament)
Jonah 3:1-5, 10 – Look at the effect God’s Message had on the Ninevites. There is Power in God’s Word and blessings when we follow it.

Tuesday – Psalm 62 - “On Christ the Solid Rock I stand – all other ground is sinking sand”

Wednesday –(Epistle)
1 Corinthians 7:29-31 - Time is short – the world is passing away – what, or whom are you focusing your life on? LOOK TO JESUS (Hebrews 12:2)

Thursday – (Gospel)
Mark 1:14-20 -
Jesus said: “I AM the Way, the Truth and the Life” (John 14:6) – COME FOLLOW ME!!

Friday – Does this week’s readings give us a warning – how do you respond? (Check out Isaiah 30:15, 18)

Saturday – Share how God has led you to come and see Jesus!!

Sunday – rest and be refreshed by God’s Grace, love, forgiveness