Connected in The Word 8-28-25
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Hebrews 13:8
Yesterday a group of children in Minnesota gathered for a Roman Catholic Mass to give thanks for a new school year. The focal point of the Catholic Mass, is the reception of the Body and Blood of Jesus, sometimes called the Eucharist, which comes from a word meaning to give thanks. Christians, especially those who are a part on a sacramental community, give thanks for the great Gift of our Lord’s Body and Blood in worship.
God’s people were gathered in that place to receive the Body and Blood of Jesus that was pierced and shed on the cross. But instead, the bodies of children were pierced and their blood was shed. When sin pierces our lives and horrific violence causes tears to be shed, we gather, we mourn, and we hold each other close. I can’t imagine the pain that community is experiencing.
I am a pastor at a LCMS church with a large school. Lutherans are also sacramental Christians who rejoice that Jesus is present (Body & Blood) in the Eucharist for the forgiveness of our sins and the strengthening of our faith. Like many, yesterday’s events caused me great sadness. But (and I know some won’t understand this) I also had a feeling of confidence, power, and even victory in the face of sin, death, and the devil. Yesterday evil pierced bodies and caused blood to be shed. Evil caused great pain and unbelievable grief. However, those students were gathered to receive and give thanks for the GIFT OF OUR LORD’S BODY AND BLOOD that was pierced and shed on the cross because of His great love for us. Yesterday, evil won a battle, but I have no doubt that the believers in that Christian sacramental community are fully aware that their Crucified and Risen Jesus has won the war! Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. NOTHING CAN CHANGE THAT TRUTH!
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