Today we read Hebrews 2. Jesus, as true man, willingly humbled Himself to taste death. As resurrected Lord, and as our firstborn Brother (verse 11), He serves as our High Priest to intercede for us before the Father. Without a Savior, we would live in slavery to the fear of death. But Jesus has taken the consequence of our sin and removes our fear. Knowing our weaknesses, He will always help us when we are tempted. • Lord Jesus, You know my weakness. Help me always to turn away from sin and to put all my trust in You. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10660). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we begin a new book of the Bible: Hebrews. In this book we find many references to the Old Testament. Jesus, through whom the Father created all things, and by whose Word all things are sustained, clearly reveals the gracious will of the Father to us. Although Jesus is heavenly like the angels, He is no mere creature. He is the firstborn Son of the Father, who shares with us all that the Father has. He frees us to receive God’s ministry, including the ministry given through the angels. • Lord Jesus, thank You for creating and sustaining me. By Your Word, keep me in true faith, that I may inherit salvation. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10656). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read the short book of Philemon, which is a letter that Paul writes to a Christian slave-owner named Philemon whose slave Onesimus has run away and become a Christian. Paul is asking Philemon to treat his former slave like a brother in Christ and release him from slavery. Paul makes a plea for the freedom of Onesimus and bases his case on grace, love, and friendship. By example, Paul intercedes for Onesimus, just as Jesus Christ intercedes for us. Jesus has called us friend; to whom should we extend friendship in His name? As our friend, His grace and love give us salvation and the hope of eternal life. • Lord, hear me as a dear friend and fellow servant to those in need. Make me a gift to them. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10578). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we finish reading Paul’s letter to Pastor Titus. Paul’s closing remarks mention four co-workers who, with him, spread the Gospel and minister to churches in various locations. Paul and the others could not perform such ministries without the help of other Christians, so his closing includes instructions for their support. Whether or not we personally work in outreach ministry, we need to support others as they evangelize, teach, and minister in Christ’s name. God, who redeemed us with the precious blood of Jesus and saw to it that we received His dear message, will give us opportunities to serve and support others. What a privilege to serve with our brothers and sisters in Christ in God’s kingdom! • Entrust me, dear Lord, with the opportunity to tell another person of Your redeeming love. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10558). (Function). Kindle Edition.