We now move beyond the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) and begin reading the Book of Acts. The author is Luke. We again read about the Ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven. Yet Jesus is not really gone. He comes to us in His true body and blood every time we take the Lord’s Supper in bread and wine. Sadly, this is something many of you in certain countries have not yet experienced. But we pray that the political situation would someday change, so you too can be baptized (at which point you will definitely receive the Holy Spirit) and can also receive the Lord’s Supper regularly in a faithful church in your area!

Today we read Matthew 28. Alleluia, Christ is risen from the dead! In order to grow His Kingdom, He gives to His disciples and to all pastors since then what we call the “Great Commission,” namely to baptize and teach all people around the world. You who read this website every day: we thank God that Holy Scripture is teaching you about the true faith, and we pray that circumstances would someday allow that you can be baptized as well.

Today we read Matthew 27. Jesus actually dies on the cross. This is very important to know because there are some who falsely claim that this did not happen. Jesus voluntarily took the death penalty for your sins and mine–and for the sins of the whole world. He took our punishment, so that we will not have to pay the price for our own sins. How amazing. But does Jesus stay dead? Find out tomorrow!

Today we read Matthew 26. Jesus’ institution of the Lord’s Supper is extremely important in this chapter. His true body and blood given to us in bread and wine is how He forgives us and strengthens us spiritually. Along with His Word (that is, the Bible) and Holy Baptism, these are some of His greatest gifts to us. If you are currently living in a place where you cannot receive these gifts, I pray that someday the situation would change so Jesus can come to you in these ways.