May 8, 2023
Today’s Reading: Acts 6:1-9; 7:2a, 51-60
Daily Lectionary: Leviticus 21:1-24; Luke 12:1-12
And he said, “Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” (Acts 7:56)
In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. Alleluia! Christ is risen! Today is the 78th anniversary of V-E Day, when victory was celebrated in Europe after over 6 hard years of fighting during World War II. Adolf Hitler, the Nazi Party, and the German army, had been a nearly unstoppable force. Over the previous 12 years, they had not only transformed the landscape of Europe through bombings and invasions, but they had convinced thousands that Hitler was a messiah figure who had come to establish a millennial kingdom. Under that deception, millions of Jews lost their lives by the claim that he was purifying the human race. No wonder V-E Day was such an occasion for celebration!
From the moment in time which we occupy, it can often seem like the evil powers are winning the day. Cultural Marxism is sweeping the country. The transgender political beast rages. Millions have left the church they grew up in, only to be catechized by social media.
In the time after Jesus’ Crucifixion, Death, and burial, it sure seemed like evil had won the day. After all, the murderous Sanhedrin had gotten their way. Jesus’ followers would eventually disperse, and Jewish life would get back to waiting for the “true” Messiah. But we know that is not the case.
That first day of the week, Jesus rose and appeared to His disciples. The truth spread over against the lies: Jesus is the Christ, who has conquered sin, death, and the devil! After forty days with His disciples, Jesus ascended to the right hand of God. He sent the Holy Spirit who equipped the apostles and grew the Church by the Word they proclaimed. The Holy Spirit gave boldness and words to Stephen to preach to these Jews—not simply to diminish their earthly influence—but to save their souls.
As the powerful and unbelieving were stoning Stephen, he was given a vision of the truth: Jesus is risen, and is seated at the right hand of God the Father Almighty. From thence, He will come to judge the living and the dead. Even though the mighty prevailed that day, the living Lord has won the battle for eternity. That victory belongs to every believer, delivered to you in your Baptism. Even though we see the wicked raging for now, the Holy Spirit keeps you in the truth: Christ is risen indeed! Alleluia! In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.
But short was their triumph; the Savior arose, And death, hell, and Satan, He vanquished His foes. The conquering Lord lifts His banner on high; He lives, yes, He lives, and will nevermore die. (He’s Risen, He’s Risen, LSB 480:3)
– Pastor Michael A. Miller is Pastor at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Lebanon, OR.
Audio Reflections Speaker: Jonathan Lackey is an LCMS seminarian.
Study Christ’s words on the cross to see how you can show more Christlike grace in your life. Perfect for group or individual study, each chapter has a Q&A at the end, and the back of the book includes a leader guide. Available now from Concordia Publishing House.
