Throughout August, the Church remembers a great variety of people and helps us to see the great variety of those who have faith in Christ Jesus our Lord. As we look at these, our brothers and sisters who have gone on before us, we see how the Lord Himself does not show partiality (Acts 10:34-35) but raises up the poor, and the lowly, and the despised who trust in Him.

As always, these saints and days can be found in Lutheran Service Book on pages xi-xiii. Those that are italicized are not found in LSB, but are in Liturgies et Cantiques Luthériens, the French language hymnal prepared by LCC and used by our French-speaking sister congregations as well as French Lutherans around the world. These can also be found on pages xi-xiii of the LCL.

All Scripture quotations are from the Evangelical Heritage Version.

August 3: Joanna, Mary, and Salome, Myrrhbearers

Joanna, Mary, and Salome (1st century AD) were three of the myrrhbearing women who came to care for the body of our Lord after His death and were some of the first witnesses of His resurrection. Joanna was the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward. She is first mentioned in Luke 7 where she listed among the women who financially supported Jesus and His disciples. Mary was the mother of James the Younger and Joseph (also called Joses). Finally, there is Salome, who also was one who ministered to the needs of Jesus and the disciples and was present at the crucifixion of our Lord. There three women, along with Mary Magdalene, came to the tomb early on the day after the Sabbath out of love for their Lord to properly anoint Him for burial. Their love proved greater than the disciples for they were afraid and locked themselves away, but these women did not care if others identified them as followers of Jesus. Thus, through their loving actions their faith was shown. Rather than finding the Lord they instead found an open tomb and angels, proclaiming the glorious resurrection of their Saviour and commissioned them to spread this news to the fearful eleven. For such great love and faith we give thanks to God and we pray that He would grant us the same to bravely and confidently be identified as Christians, even when others fear.

[The angel] said to them, “Do not be alarmed. You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. But go, tell his disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.’”

Mark 16:6-7

August 8: Jean Vallière, Martyr

Jean Vallière (c. 1483 – August 8, 1523) was an Agustinian monk and French martyr during the Reformation. Vallière was a hermit who lived near Livry outside of Paris. He met the humanist Jacques Lefèvre d’Étaples at Meaux and it was there that he learned of the budding Reformation in Germany and was convinced of the saving Gospel. After teaching and preaching this in the surrounding villages he was arrested for spreading the “heresy of Luther.” In order to help discourage the populace from following this teaching he was falsely accused of various other blasphemies (this same tactic was employed at the Diets of both Worms and Augsburg). He was burnt alive in the centre of Paris wearing his hermit’s garb confessing that his only hope was in his Lord Jesus Christ and the grace of God. This martyrdom was one of the many early on during the Reformation and was little over a month after the first martyrs of the Reformation Hendrick Voes and Jan van Essen (also Augustinian monks) were put to death in Brussels. We give thanks to God for this martyr and his steadfast faith, and pray that He would likewise preserve us under trial.

[Jesus said,] “I have told you these things so that you will not fall away. They will put you out of the synagogues. In fact, a time is coming when anyone who murders you will think he is offering a service to God.”

John 16:1-2

August 10: Lawrence, Deacon and Martyr

Lawrence (December 31, 225 – August 10, 258) was a deacon in Rome and a martyr in the persecution of Emperor Valerian. As a deacon, Lawrence was one of those responsible for the care for the poor and other mercy work (such as ransoming prisoners of war, paying for the debt of those about to enter slavery, etc). Because many of these acts required the use of money there were rumours among the pagans that the Church was in possession of great wealth and treasures. Lawrence, one whom they knew was responsible for such work, was brought before the authorities and commanded to hand over the treasures of the Church or to be put to death. Lawrence agreed and went throughout the city gathering the poor, the lowly, and the despised and any whom the Church would care for. When questioned about the meaning of what he had done Lawrence replied that these people were the treasures of the Church. As a result, he was ordered to be put to death by being burned alive on a grill. Like many of the ancient martyrs, Lawrence went to his death with joy because he knew that His Saviour who purchased him with the precious treasure of His blood would receive him. At one point he is said to have told his executioners, “Turn me over, this side is finished!” In Lawrence we have an example to follow in his steadfast faith in the face of death and of love towards our neighbours, especially the poor, lowly, and despised.

For example, consider your call, brothers. Not many of you were wise from a human point of view, not many were powerful, and not many were born with high status. But God chose the foolish things of the world to put to shame those who are wise. God chose the weak things of the world to put to shame the things that are strong.

1 Corinthians 1:26-27

August 15: St. Mary, Mother of our Lord

The Blessed Virgin Mary (1st century AD) was the one whom our Lord and God favoured and chose to be the mother of the only-begotten Son in the flesh. By her own words in the Magnificat (her inspired song which we still sing at Vespers) she was from a poor and insignificant family, despite being a descendant of David. While still a virgin, the angel Gabriel appeared to her and told her of the miracle of the incarnation and virgin birth of the Saviour. In response, she gives the Amen of faith. She appears in a number of events in the life of her Son, our Saviour including at His circumcision, His presentation in the Temple, His questioning of the teachers at the Temple while a child, and at His first miracle at the wedding in Canna. She was also present at the crucifixion, where in tender love towards her, our Saviour gave her into the care of His beloved disciple John with whom she lived until she died. She is said to have died in Ephesus, where John was eventually bishop. It was here where the ecumenical council was held which answered the question of whether she should be called θεοτόκος (theotokos, God-bearer). The answer was yes, for her Son was both man and God, thus the one she bore is not a mere man, but God in the flesh. As such it is appropriate to call her the Mother of God. For this we give thanks, and call her blessed, for by God’s grace she holds a special position which none other can claim, bearing the Saviour of the world even though she did not deserve it. For this she is the most blessed of all women, and in her we see an example of pure faith in Jesus and God’s desire to save all by His grace even though they do not deserve such a gift. 

The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women!”

Luke 1:28

August 16: Isaac, Patriarch

Isaac (c. 2066 – 1886 BC) the son of Abraham, was one of the three major patriarchs leading up to the children of Israel. Isaac himself was the child of the promise which the Lord God made to Abraham and Sarah that even though in their old age they would have a child through whom all the nations of the world would be blessed. This ultimately finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, for through His death as a sacrifice for sin all nations are blessed and may be saved. There is far less in the Scriptures regarding Isaac compared to his father Abraham and his youngest son Jacob. However, there are a number of parallels and types of Christ in his life. In addition to being the child of promise, he was also a type of our Lord’s death and resurrection. In testing Abraham, God asked Abraham to offer to him his son, his beloved son, to Him. Isaac, like Christ, bears the wood of his sacrifice up the mountain to the altar. However, rather than dying, he is spared when the Lord provides a ram to sacrifice instead. This points us forward to God who gave His Son, His beloved Son, as a sacrifice for sin so that He might die in the place of sinners. As an ancestor of Christ, we give thanks to God for him, as well as for the ways in which he points forward to his holy Descendant who fulfills what he enacted by type and shadow.

Then Abraham fell on his face and laughed and said in his heart, “Will a child be born to someone who is one hundred years old? Will Sarah, who is ninety years old, give birth?” And Abraham said to God, “Oh, let Ishmael live in your presence!” But God said, “No, Sarah, your wife, will bear a son for you. You shall name him Isaac. I will establish my covenant with him as an everlasting covenant for his descendants after him.

Genesis 17:17-19

August 17: Johann Gerhard, Theologian

Johann Gerhard (October 17, 1582 – August 17, 1637) was a Lutheran theologian and pastor in the 17th century and played a large role in reacting to challenges from both Calvinist and Roman Catholic apologists. Today Gerhard is known for both his devotional and dogmatic writings. His devotional works are rich in imagery and display some of the finest examples of Lutheran piety which is saturated with Scripture and application to daily life while focusing on the work of our Saviour. His first great work, Sacred Meditations, was completed when he was only 22 years old. His dogmatic works include an in-depth systematic theology which builds on those of Martin Chemnitz and Philip Melanchthon and remains to this day one of the greatest works of Lutheran theology. Other works of his focus on the catholic character of the Evangelical Church by demonstrating that it is in harmony with the ancient and medieval Church, it is merely purified of innovations. Through all of these works his love for his Saviour and great faith is evident and he demonstrates for us how piety and orthodoxy should go hand in hand.

[Jesus] said to them, “Therefore every expert in the law who has been trained as a disciple in the kingdom of heaven is like the owner of a house who brings out of his treasure both new things and old things.”

Matthew 13:52

August 19: Bernard of Clairvaux, Hymnwriter and Theologian

Bernard of Clairvaux (1090 – August 19, 1153) was a prominent abbot, theologian, and hymnwriter in the 12th century. As a young man, Bernard joined a reformed Benedictine monastery at Citeaux (the first Cistercian monastery) that sought to follow the Rule of St. Benedict more strictly. Early on he was chosen to head a new monastery for the order. Bernard’s theology was often very devotional and many of his works were influential in shaping Lutheran devotional writers. Bernard also saw the importance of music and its role in theology and teaching. His hymns have been used continuously in the Church since his time and have been translated and used as the basis of new hymns as well, including some in our hymnal. Bernard was held up by the Reformers as an example of one of those in the past who sought out monasticism for the right reasons: in order to study the Scriptures and be devoted to teaching and contemplation while still trusting solely in Christ for his salvation.

Therefore I will praise you among the nations, Lord. To your name I will make music.

Psalm 18:49

August 20: Samuel, Prophet

Samuel (c. 1080 – c. 1010 BC) was a prophet and judge in pre-kingdom Israel. Samuel’s birth was the result of God’s special intervention and so his mother Hannah gave him to the tabernacle to serve the Lord. At this time, Hannah prayed the Exultavit Cor Meum, a song with themes very similar to St. Mary’s Magnificat. The Lord first called Samuel when he was young and gave him the difficult task of prophesying to Eli the priest the fall of his house. As judge, Samuel guided the people of Israel for many years before they demanded a king. The Lord used him to anoint His chosen king, Saul, and later when Saul lost the favour of God by his rebellion, Samuel was sent to anoint David. Samuel acts for us as an example of faithfulness to God amidst an unfaithful world. Samuel felt rejected when the people asked for a king, but the Lord comforted him telling him that the people were not rejecting him, but God Himself (1 Sam 8:7). Samuel had to live with the fact that not only his people, but even his own sons, rejected the way of God (1 Sam 8:1-3). In him we see God’s care for His faithful people, even when their children reject Him, and so may be strengthened if we face similar situations.

My heart rejoices in the Lord! In the Lord, my horn is raised high. My mouth is opened wide against my enemies, because I find joy in your salvation.

1 Samuel 2:1

August 24: St. Bartholomew, Apostle

St. Bartholomew (1st century AD), also called Nathanael in the Gospel of St. John, was an Apostle of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Bartholomew was called by St. Philip (John 1:43-51) and was originally sceptical of the Lord as the Messiah until hearing His words. Aside from his call, there is little mentioned of him in the New Testament besides the lists of the Disciples. According to tradition Bartholomew and St. Jude Thaddaeus brought the Gospel to the people of Armenia. He is remembered to have been martyred for the Lord by being flayed alive and then beheaded. As such, he is often depicted holding a knife in art. Bartholomew is an example for us of humble faith because he served the Lord not for notoriety or to gain anything, but because of his love for Him and out of thanks for the forgiveness of sins. His conversion is also an example of the Lord’s mercy and love for even those who doubt and of His powerful word to give us confidence in Him.

Jesus replied, “You believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree. You will see greater things than that!” Then he added, “Amen, Amen, I tell you: You will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”

John 1:50-51

August 26: Caesarius of Arles, Theologian

Caesarius of Arles (c. 468 – August 27, 582) was bishop of Arles in modern France. As bishop, Caesarius was responsible for overseeing the clergy under him. While some at this time were already treating this office as a political appointment, Caesarius stressed the need for the bishop to teach and care for the laity and clergy in their care. Because of this, Caesarius became known for his sermons, over 250 of which survive to this day. He also stressed the importance of the Word in the life of the Christian, both in the Divine Service and in the home. He desired that the people study and read or hear the Scriptures at home and to treasure the Scriptures just as much as they treasured the Sacraments. Caesarius oversaw the Synod of Orange in 529 which upheld the truth of the Gospel against semi-Pelagianism. This synod was used as an example by the Reformers of God preserving the pure Gospel within the Church at all times and as proof that the doctrine which they taught was not new but had always been believed and accepted. Caesarius serves as an example for pastors and all can be encouraged by his teaching and reminding us of the importance of the Word in our lives. 

Your words are a lamp for my feet and a light for my path.

Psalm 119:105

August 27: Monica, Mother of Augustine

Monica (c. 332 – 387) was the mother of Augustine and an example of patience and love for unbelieving children. Monica was from Thagaste in North Africa (modern Algeria) and married a pagan named Patricius, a city official. Patricius did not allow Monica to bring any of her children to be baptized and so they were raised in the usual way of Roman pagans. At one time in Augustine’s childhood while very ill, Monica convinced Patricius to allow Augustine to be baptized, but he reneged when he recovered. And so, through much of her life, Monica watched as her husband and children continued in unbelief while she alone held to saving faith. She remained in constant prayer for her family even when it seemed that they continued to go in the wrong direction. Eventually she saw her prayers answered when her son converted to Christianity while in Italy. On their way back to Africa after his baptism in Milan Monica was called to glory and died in peace in Ostia. For centuries, she has been an example to follow for those parents of unbelieving children and children who have left the faith. She is an example of continuing in prayer for them, keeping relationships with them, and entrusting them into the care of God alone who can convert their hearts.

Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks. For this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

August 28: Augustine, Pastor and Theologian

Augustine of Hippo (November 13, 354 – August 28, 430) was an influential North African pastor and theologian. Augustine grew up in a pagan manner after his father, despite the protests of his mother Monica. While going to school in Carthage he became a Manichaean and took to living with a woman outside of marriage and fathered a child. Augustine moved to Milan in order to take a position as a teacher of rhetoric. In Milan, influenced by his studies in various philosophies, his reading of the New Testament at the advice of his mother, and the preaching and conversations with Ambrose of Milan he was convinced of the truth of the Christian faith. After returning to Africa he was ordained at Hippo in 391. Four years later he was elected Bishop of Hippo. As the bishop Augustine gave himself to preaching and the study of the Scriptures. Augustine was one of the key figures who opposed Pelagius’ heresy, and many of his writings and commentaries became extremely influential in the Western Church. He is an example of a faithful pastor, of God’s mercy by way of his conversion later in life, and of a faithful theologian. 

The goal of this command is love that comes from a pure heart, from a good conscience, and from a sincere faith.

1 Timothy 1:5

August 29: Martyrdom of St. John the Baptist

According to Christian tradition, it was on this day in AD 28 when Herod Antipas put St. John the Baptist to death by having him beheaded while in prison (Mark 6:27). Through his life, St. John was the forerunner of Christ, “going before the Lord to prepare His way” (Luke 1:76). This happened in his birth, his preaching, his baptising of the Lord, and even in his innocent death. For John was not put to death for any crime but due to a grudge that Herodias, the illegitimate wife of Herod, had concerning his preaching of repentance from the Word of God. As the last prophet before the Messiah and last prophet of the Old Covenant, John points forward to the Messiah that he proclaimed even in his death. Even his burial is similar to that of his Lord’s, for John’s disciples came and took the body away to bury it after his death (Mark 6:29). And while during the Reformation the abuse of relics was connected to this festival (there are four places which claim to have the head of John the Baptist, including a mosque), this festival helps us to remember the example of John the Baptist and encourages us in the bearing of our crosses and out witness to our faith and the hope of everlasting life we have within us.

A white robe was given to each one of [the souls of the martyrs under the altar]. And they were told to rest a little longer until their number would be complete, when their fellow servants and their brothers would be put to death as they were.

Revelation 6:11

Through July, we have a variety of encouraging examples for us. Many this month are from the Old Testament including three prophets and a matriarch beginning the month. From there we have a number of those who were close to the Lord during His earthly ministry including two of the many New Testament Marys. There are also two who seem to not fit the general theme that emerges, however, this is due to the date of their heavenly birthdays. As you read this I hope you find the comfort of the Gospel and are encouraged by God’s care for His people of all times and of all nations for the sake of His beloved Son Jesus Christ.

July 6: Isaiah, Prophet

Isaiah (8th century BC – c. 681 BC) the son of Amoz, was a prophet in the kingdom of Judah. He prophesied during the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah (1:1). His book is filled with many prophecies of the Messiah and is quoted more than any other prophet in the New Testament. Some are so explicit and so clear, such as the Songs of the Suffering Servant, that he is sometimes known as the Fifth Evangelist. Much of his work is focused on calling people to repentance for their idolatry and oppression of the poor. He foretold the destruction of Jerusalem and the exile of the people if they would not repent. Yet, he also preached of the peace to come in the time of the Messiah, the defeat of death, the conversion of the nations, and God’s deliverance of the people after the exile through King Cyrus of Persia. Traditionally it is held that Isaiah was put to death on the orders of King Manasseh by being sawed in half (possibly referenced in Hebrews 11:37). Overall, Isaiah serves as both one who pointed to Christ by his office as prophet as well as serving as an example of hope.

For to us a child is born. To us a son is given. The authority to rule will rest on his shoulders. He will be named: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. There will be no limit to his authority and no end to the peace he brings. He will rule on David’s throne and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness from now on, into eternity. The zeal of the Lord of Armies will accomplish this.

Isaiah 9:6-7

July 16: Ruth

Ruth (11th century BC) was a Moabite who came to faith in the God of Israel and is an ancestor of David and the Lord Jesus. As a Moabite, Ruth grew up outside of the covenant, but during a famine in Judah she married a Bethlehemite named Mahlon, who was sojourning in Moab with his parents. By the time the famine was over, Ruth’s husband, brother-in-law, and father-in-law had died. As her mother-in-law Naomi was returning to Bethlehem she urged her daughter-in-laws to return to their people and their gods, but Ruth had come to faith and was loyal to Naomi and gave the confession, “Wherever you go, I will go, and wherever you make your home, I will make my home. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God.” On returning to Bethlehem she gleaned in order to support herself and Naomi. Eventually, she and Naomi would come to be redeemed by Boaz, who would marry her, and give her a son: Obed, the father of Jesse. Ruth is an example of God’s desire to save people from all nations, of patience and perseverance, and of a steadfast faith in trial.

But Ruth said, “Do not urge me to abandon you or to turn back from following you. Because wherever you go, I will go, and wherever you make your home, I will make my home. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God.

Ruth 1:16

July 20: Elijah, Prophet

Elijah (c. 900 BC – c. 849 BC) the Tishbite was a prophet in the kingdom of Israel in the time of King Ahab and his wife Jezebel. We do not know much about the beginning of Elijah’s life or call. He first appears in 1 Kings 17 where he announces to Ahab that the Lord will cause a drought in the land because of Ahab’s trust in the false fertility and rain god Baal. In response, Ahab and Jezebel persecuted the prophets of God and supported the prophets of Baal causing Elijah to go into hiding in the land of Zarephath. It is here where he prefigured Christ’s saving work by the raising of a widow’s son. Much of what we have in the Scriptures regarding Elijah points to a life of suffering for the faith. After the ending of the drought and the demonstration of the power of the Lord through the fire from heaven on Mount Carmel, Elijah was once again hunted by Jezebel. At this time the Lord led him to Mount Hebron/Sinai where he was for 40 days. Despite not writing anything, Elijah is seen as the prophet par excellence in the Scriptures. Malachi prophesies that the forerunner of the Messiah will come in the spirit and power of Elijah. At the end of his life, Elijah was taken up to heaven in a flaming whirlwind after appointing a successor. During the ministry of our Lord Jesus, Elijah appeared alongside Moses at the Transfiguration of Jesus and spoke with Him regarding His departure. Elijah for us serves as an example of steadfastness in trial and boldness in our confession of faith no matter the consequences. 

When the time of the evening sacrifice had arrived, Elijah the prophet stood up and said, “O Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, let it be known this day that you are God in Israel and that I am your servant and that I have done all these things by your word. 37 Answer me, Lord! Answer me so that this people will know that you, O Lord, are God and that you are turning their hearts back to you.”

1 Kings 18:36-37

July 21: Ezekiel, Prophet

Ezekiel (c. 622 BC – c. 570 BC) the son of Buzi, was a priest and prophet during the exile of the Jewish people in Babylon. As a prophet among the exiles, Ezekiel continued to call for the people to repent and believe that Jerusalem (which had not yet been destroyed) would be destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar. Many of these prophecies were to be enacted out in his person and actions. In this he exposed himself to ridicule. Yet, he followed the commands of the Lord and endured mocking for the name of God. In the time after the Temple was destroyed, he turned to comforting the people with the hope of the return to the land and God’s faithfulness in keeping His promises. Throughout all of this he points to the New Covenant and the Kingdom of God in Christ which would include all nations. His writing includes one of the most clear Old Testament prophecies regarding Holy Baptism (Ezekiel 36:25-27). We give thanks to God for raising up the prophet Ezekiel and for his witness of the coming Prophet like Moses, Jesus Christ.

I will sprinkle purifying water on you, and you will be clean. I will cleanse you from all your impurity and from all your filthy idols. Then I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit inside you. I will remove the heart of stone from your body and give you a heart of flesh. I will put my Spirit within you and will cause you to walk in my statutes, and you will carefully observe my ordinances.

Ezekiel 36:25-27

July 22: St. Mary Magdalene

St. Mary Magdalene (1st century AD) was a prominent female disciple of our Lord Jesus and the first witness of the resurrection. She most likely came from the town of Magdala on the Sea of Galilee and she began to follow Jesus after He drove out seven demons from her (Luke 8:2). She, along with a number of other women including Jesus’ mother Mary and the Apostle John were some of the only believers present at our Lord’s crucifixion. And while she has been identified throughout Church history with the woman who anointed our Lord with perfume and tears in Luke 7, but this is not certain. However, we do know that the Lord appeared to her after His resurrection and sent her to tell the Apostles of His resurrection. For this, she is known as the Apostle to the Apostles. In her we see both an example for us of repentance and service, for after her conversion she and other women provided for the Lord and His disciples. We are also strengthened by the example of the Lord’s mercy to her in driving out seven demons.

Jesus told her, “Do not continue to cling to me, for I have not yet ascended to my Father. But go to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father—to my God and your God.’” Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord!” She also told them the things he said to her.

John 20:17-18

July 25: St. James the Elder, Apostle

St. James the Elder (c. AD 3 – 44), also known as St. James the Great, and St. James the Greater, was the brother of St. John the Apostle and an apostle of our Lord. James was one of the “inner three” of the Lord’s disciples along with Peter and John and as such witnessed the Transfiguration, the raising of Jairus’ daughter, and was asked to stay awake while Jesus prayed in the garden of Gethsemane. After the resurrection and ascension of our Lord, James was the first of the Apostles to be martyred for the faith. He died at the hands of King Herod Agrippa in AD 44 by being put to death by the sword (Acts 12:1-2). Besides his steadfastness unto death, there are a number of examples in James’ life that serve us as disciples. The first is that our zeal for the truth must be tempered by love. For James asked the Lord when He was rejected at a Samaritan village if he and John should call down fire from heaven to destroy them (Luke 9:51-56). The Lord rebuked them for this, and later, at the preaching of the Gospel many of the Samaritans would come to faith, most likely including some from this unnamed village (Acts 8:4-8). Thus, our zeal for the truth of the Gospel must not result in desiring the destruction of our enemies (as James desired at first), but their conversion. The second example is that of humility. James and John both asked Jesus if they could sit at His right and left hand in His glory. In response, the Lord said that the greatest must be a servant, and the one who would be first must be a slave of all (Mark 10:43-44). Finally, there is his steadfastness to death. For all of these examples which God may use to strengthen us we give thanks to God.

Whoever wants to be great among you will be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you will be a slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.

Mark 10:43b-45

July 28: Johann Sebastian Bach, Kantor

Johann Sebastian Bach (March 31, 1685 – July 28, 1750) was a composer and remembered for his vocation as kantor within the Church. Bach grew up in a Lutheran household and this Christ-centred faith was a central component of his life. He knew well the doctrine of vocation and that all we do we do for the Lord. At the beginning of all his musical compositions (both secular and sacred) he would write I.I. which stood for Iesu Iuva, which means, Jesus Help Me; at the end he would write S.D.G. which stood for Soli Deo Gloria, which means, To God Alone be Glory. As the kantor in Leipzig he was responsible for the music for the church. As a result, he wrote cantatas for each Sunday and other festivals which would include the chorale meant for the day (like our hymn of the day). These works both added beauty and majesty to the worship of God while also proclaiming the Gospel through their words. Our own hymnals still use some of the music which he wrote and his other sacred works are still regularly performed around the world continuing to spread the Gospel accompanied by beautiful music meant to glorify God. For this we are thankful and give thanks to God for his example and works while also praying for God to continue to raise up and bless all church musicians who accompany our worship today.

Praise the Lord. Praise the Lord, O my soul. I will praise the Lord as long as I live. I will make music to my God as long as I exist.

Psalm 146:1-2

July 29: Mary, Martha, and Lazarus of Bethany

Mary, Martha, and Lazarus (1st century AD) were three siblings from Bethany near Jerusalem (not to be confused with Bethany beyond the Jordan) and disciples of Christ. These siblings were not only disciples, but good friends of our Lord. In Luke 10 Jesus and His disciples stayed at their home and He taught there. He also stayed at their home prior to the triumphal entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday (John 12). Lazarus, through his resurrection by Jesus, pointed forward to Jesus’ own resurrection from the dead. The faith of these siblings is for us a great example. Mary demonstrates for us the importance of Christ and His teaching being the thing of greatest importance in our lives. For when Martha asked Jesus to rebuke her sister for sitting at His feet and learning while she prepared a meal, Jesus said that Mary had chosen the better portion. Following this, Mary demonstrates a love willing to sacrifice goods in using an expensive perfume to anoint Jesus before the triumphal entry. In addition, their faith in the resurrection from the dead and hope in the midst of death is a great example for us. For they believed and had hope in the resurrection on the Last Day when their brother died. And when the Lord said that He was the resurrection and the life, they likewise had faith in Him. Thus, we give thanks for these three siblings who God has used to show us the life and hope of a disciple in times of mourning.

Jesus said to [Martha], “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me will live, even if he dies. And whoever lives and believes in me will never perish. Do you believe this?” “Yes, Lord,” she told him. “I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who was to come into the world.”

John 11:25-27

July 30: Robert Barnes, Confessor and Martyr

Robert Barnes (1495 – July 30, 1540) was an English martyr during the Reformation. Barnes was an Augustinian friar who studied at both Cambridge and Lueven, earning his Doctor of Divinity. While at Cambridge, Barnes was a member of the faculty who met at the White Horse Tavern to discuss theology. It was here that he first became aware of seriously and read the writings of Martin Luther and was convinced of the evangelical truth. As a result he began to preach this truth in his sermons. After being condemned for this he was put under house arrest where he continued to preach to his visitors and distribute evangelical works in English. He later escaped to the continent where he spent some time in Wittenberg and stayed at the home of Martin Luther. Because of this he became a good mediator between Henry VIII and the Wittenberg faculty when he returned to England. While there he continued to preach and write the truth of Lutheran doctrine. After one particularly fiery sermon in 1540 he was arrested. After refusing to recant and remaining steadfast in the faith, he was put to death by being burnt at the stake. Later, Luther would say of him, “This Dr. Robert Barnes we certainly knew, and it is a particular joy for me to hear that our good, pious dinner guest and houseguest has been so graciously called by God to pour out his blood and to become a holy martyr for the sake of His dear Son.” We likewise give thanks to God for this martyr who held the faith steadfast even unto death.

Do not fear anything that you are about to suffer. Look, the Devil is about to throw some of you into prison so that you will be tested, and you will suffer for ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.

Revelation 2:10

July 31: Joseph of Arimathea

Joseph of Arimathea (1st century AD) was a member of the Sanhedrin and a disciple of Jesus. Like Nicodemus, a Pharisee who sought Jesus out by night so as not to be seen as a disciple, Joseph was a secret disciple of Jesus because of his position on the ruling council of the Sanhedrin. However, the death of our Lord (which he did not agree with (Luke 23:51)) brought out a change of heart in him (and Nicodemus). When Jesus had died, he openly became a disciple and used his influence as a member of the Sanhedrin in order to approach Pilate boldly to ask for the body of Jesus that they might bury Him. Joseph and Nicodemus then took the Lord down from the cross and wrapped him in linen with aloes before placing Him in Joseph’s own new tomb, thus fulfilling the prophecies of the burial of the Messiah. Joseph is especially an example for us in boldness of our confession, even when it will cost us influence, friends, and prestige in this life. For while at first he was afraid of a public confession, he later was given the courage to profess His faith by God’s grace. May we always be encouraged by this, and pray that God would grant us this same grace when we feel timid about confessing our faith.

Joseph from Arimathea, a prominent member of the Council, who was himself waiting for the kingdom of God, boldly went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Pilate was surprised that he was already dead. He summoned the centurion and asked him if Jesus had been dead for a long time. When he learned from the centurion that it was so, he granted the body to Joseph. Joseph bought a linen cloth, took him down, and wrapped him in the linen cloth. He laid him in a tomb that had been cut out of rock, and he rolled a stone against the entrance of the tomb.

Mark 15:43-46

In June we remember two events that mark great professions of doctrine that happened around 1200 years apart. We also remember many martyrs who died confessing this true faith and preaching the Gospel. However, it is still a large mix of people from the Old Testament, New Testament, and beyond, including laymen and apostles, men and women, from many vocations. We see how Christ has called into His body the Church people from all places into saving faith in Him.

June 1: Justin, Martyr

Justin (c. 100 – c. 165), also known as Justin Martyr, was an early Christian apologist and martyr. Justin was raised and educated as a pagan. He studied in various philosophical schools (which often had religious overtones) seeking the truth. His conversion came as a result of an elderly man suggesting he read the Prophets and Apostles to find the truth. The Holy Spirit worked through the Word to bring Justin to faith. As an apologist Justin wrote much in defense of the Christian faith before both Jews and pagans who made spurious claims against the faith. Of his writings, three survive: The Apology, written to the Emperor Antonius Pius; The Second Apology, written to the Senate; and Dialogue with Trypho, a defense of Jesus as the Jewish Messiah. In his defense of the faith to Antonius, Justin gives the outline of the Divine Service, proving that while it was done in secret, there was nothing evil happening. Much of what Justin describes is still done today in our service. Justin serves as an example for all Christians in being able to give an answer for the hope within us.

But regard the Lord, the Christ, as holy in your hearts. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give a reason for the hope that is in you.

1 Peter 3:15

June 2: The Martyrs of Lyons

The Martyrs of Lyons (AD 177) were 48 Christians of Lyons and Vienne who were martyred for their faith in modern Lyons, France. Leading up to the mass execution on June 2, 177 Christians in Lyons were forbidden to be in the marketplace, in the public baths, and even in the general public. If they were found outside of their homes they were beaten, robbed, mocked, and ridiculed. At this time many Christian homes were vandalized and even destroyed. Eventually the government endorsed this persecution by charging the Christians with cannibalism (because of the Eucharist) and incest (because we are all brothers and sisters in Christ). Church leaders and prominent Christians were tortured and eventually put to death in the arena. Only some names have been passed on from the 48: Pothinus, Sanctus, Attalus, Maturus, and Blandina. Through their example, the Lord has demonstrated His grace in that even in mass persecution He keeps His saints steadfast in the true faith.

Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.

Matthew 5:11

June 4: Clothilde, Christian Ruler

Clothilde (c. 474 – 545) was a princess of Burgundy and wife of the Franksih king Clovis I and is remembered for her role in the conversion of her husband and her works of mercy. Although Clothilde was a Christian she was married to the pagan Clovis. As a faithful Christian mother, she had her children baptized, even though Clovis was opposed to it. Eventually, after much prayer for her husband and through her witness, the Holy Spirit brought Clovis to faith. With Clovis’ conversion, many of the other Frankish leaders followed suit and a Christian pastors and missionaries were given great freedom in spreading the faith throughout the realm. Clothilde is also remembered for her great works of charity and mercy towards the poor in their midst, using her wealth to the benefit of her neighbours. She is thus a good example for Christians who have unbelieving family members because of her persistent prayer, as well as for all Christians for her faith and stewardship. 

Charm is deceptive, and beauty is vapor that vanishes, but a woman who fears the Lord should be praised. Give her credit for the fruit of her hands, and let her accomplishments praise her in the city gates.

Proverbs 31:30-31

June 5: Boniface of Mainz, Missionary to the Germans

Boniface (c. 675 – June 5, 754) was an Anglo-Saxon missionary to the German peoples and eventually, Bishop of Mainz. Boniface was from a well-off family in Anglo-Saxon England and against his father’s wishes pursued theological study and joined a monastery. In 716 Boniface went on a missionary journey to Frisia. After difficulty there due to war, Boniface continued his work in Hesse and Bavaria. After cutting down an oak tree, seen as sacred by the German pagans and dedicated to Thor, Boniface was able to prove that the gods of the Germans were powerless and empty. As a result of this many came to the true faith. Boniface appealed to the Anglo-Saxons in England to help their pagan kin and many supplies, funds, books, and missionaries were sent to help Boniface. During all of this, Boniface also helped lead reforms in the Frankish Church. He was martyred on June 5, 754 when he and those travelling with them were attacked by pagan bandits hoping they were carrying riches. However, the only riches they had were those of God’s Word which reveal eternal life. Boniface is an example of a steadfast faith and strong desire to bring the faith to those who have not heard.

The Lord is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?

Psalm 27:1

June 11: St. Barnabas, Apostle

St. Barnabas (1st century AD) was a companion of St. Paul and apostle (Acts 14:14). In the Scripture, Barnabas is mentioned throughout the book of Acts and he is also mentioned by Paul in 1 Corinthians, Galatians, and Colossians. Barnabas was a Levite and native of the island of Cyprus. When the Christians that fled the persecution in Judea went to Antioch and began preaching to Gentiles with great success, Barnabas was sent to oversee the mission. Later, Barnabas accompanied Paul on his first missionary journey, and seemed to have been the more eloquent and greater of the two in the eyes of men, for when they were in Lystra, the local pagans thought that Paul was Hermes and Barnabas Zeus (Acts 14:12). Along with Paul, Barnabas was an important figure at the Jerusalem Council, where the account of their missionary journey showed the Holy Spirit’s approval of the acceptance of Gentiles into the Church without circumcision and the keeping of the whole Law. Although not one of the Twelve, Barnabas is counted as an Apostle along with Paul because together they were recognized by the Apostles in Jerusalem and extended the right hand of fellowship (Gal. 2). Barnabas and Paul later split up after a disagreement about taking John Mark with them on the second missionary journey. After this, the book of Acts no more mentions him. However, Church tradition says that Barnabas went to his homeland of Cyprus to continue his work of spreading the Gospel where he was eventually martyred for the faith. Barnabas’ example is one of faith in uncertain times and joy in the Gospel and its spread. 

While they were worshipping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”

Acts 13:2

June 12: The Ecumenical Council of Nicea, AD 325

The Ecumenical Council of Nicea (325), also called the First Council of Nicea, was the first ecumenical council of the Church, and was convened in order to deal with the Arian heresy. The Council was convened by Emperor Constantine I to meet at Nicea in order to bring peace to the Church after the teachings of Arius were stirring up division and strife. Bishops from all over the Empire and beyond were invited to attend the Council, with 318 being able to make it. At the Council the Emperor charged the assembled bishops to believe what the Scriptures said regarding the divine nature of Christ, that they may be the judge. In the end the Council agreed that the Son of God, who became incarnate in Christ Jesus, was homoousios with the Father, that is: being of one substance. The Old Nicene Creed was also composed here, to act as a confession of the true faith. This is also when the Church agreed when to celebrate the Resurrection of our Lord (on the first Sunday after the first full moon after the spring equinox). This Council was an important event in the Church’s life, and helped set the pattern of creeds and confessions.

Look, how good and how pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!  It is like the precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, the beard of Aaron, running down on the collar of his robes.

Psalm 133:1-2

June 14: Elisha, Prophet

Elisah (9th century BC – c. 798 BC) was the successor of Elijah as the leader of the prophets in the northern Kingdom of Israel. Elisha was chosen by Elijah as his successor and was given the gift of being able to see Elijah taken up in a whirlwind of fire. According to his request, he was given a double portion of the Spirit which rested on Elijah (2 Kings 2:9-10). As such, Elisha’s life was filled with miracles that pointed forward to the greater miracles of Jesus Christ, the Prophet to whom all prophets pointed. These include, raising the son of a widow from the dead, multiplying loaves to feed a crowd, and healing a man of leprosy. Elisha was also faithful in carrying out all that he was called to do in calling the kings of Israel to repentance, anointing new kings of both Israel and Syria who were to later overthrow their kings whom God had deposed. The final miracle of God through Elisha is one that points very clearly to our relationship with Jesus Christ. After Elisha’s death, after only his bones remained, a man was placed into his tomb and was resurrected after sharing his grave and touching his bones (2 Kings 13:20-21). This miracle points us ultimately to our relationship with Christ, for we who have been baptized into Christ have been baptized into His death. Sharing in His death, we are also raised with Him and share in His life. Thanks be to God, for his servant Elisha whose preaching and miracles point us to Jesus Christ, the Son of God!

In fact, no prophecy ever came by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were being carried along by the Holy Spirit.

2 Peter 1:21

June 24: Nativity of St. John the Baptist

Most feasts and festivals with connections to the saints commemorate their death, but on this day, the Church remembers the birth of John the Baptist. In the first chapter of Luke, the first half is filled not only with the annunciation and birth of Jesus, but also of John the Baptist. John was the son of Zechariah, a priest, and Elizabeth, a relative of Mary, the Mother of our Lord. In more than just his preaching, John the Baptist was the forerunner of Christ.This day remembers how his birth pointed forward to the birth of Christ. John followed in the pattern of Old Testament births which pointed to Christ by being born of parents who were barren and in old age. This and other miracle births all pointed forward to the ultimate miracle birth: Jesus’ virginal birth. At the birth of John the Baptist, when it was time to name him, John’s father Zecheriah sang a prophetic song (which we call the Benedictus) which speaks of the salvation which will come through God coming to earth in the person of His Son and in the role John will play in being His forerunner. Appropriately, John’s nativity is celebrated six months before that of our Lord, for according to Luke, when Elizabeth was six months pregnant when Gabriel appeared to Mary (Luke 1:26).

And you, child, will be called a prophet of the Most High, because you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways, to give his people the knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins.

Luke 1:76-77

June 25: Presentation of the Augsburg Confession, AD 1530

On June 25, 1530 7 princes, and 2 city councils presented the Augsburg Confession to Emperor Charles V at the Diet of Augsburg in order to demonstrate that their faith was none other than the catholic faith purified of certain abuses. The Augsburg Confession itself presented 21 articles in common with the Church catholic in distinction to the Anabaptists and Zwinglians. The last 7 articles were those that showed abuses which had been corrected. While the Roman theologians present did not accept this confession, the Augsburg Confession became the chief confession of the Evangelical Church and all Lutheran theologians and churches have from the beginning accepted it. The Church has likewise always remembered this day, and there were many paintings and printings commissioned to commemorate it and demonstrate its teachings (such as the image here from an altar). Those who presented it knew that in doing so they were putting their lives at risk from the Emperor, yet they likewise knew the importance of confessing the true faith of the Scriptures. For this clear confession of faith and for the steadfast faith of its presenters we give thanks to God.

Then I will speak of your testimonies before kings, and I will not be put to shame.

Psalm 119:46

June 26: Jeremiah, Prophet

Jeremiah (c. 650 BC – c. 580 BC) was a prophet and author of the book which bears his name whom God called to preach in the southern kingdom of Judah. Jeremiah was from a priestly family that lived in Ananoath outside of Jerusalem. He was called with the especially hard task of preaching repentance and the coming destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians while being surrounded by false prophets who preferred to flatter the king rather than preach repentance. Because of this he was often jailed, mocked, and had few who would listen to his warnings. Yet, the Lord promised to and did preserve a faithful remnant who heard the word of the Lord through Jeremiah and were repentant. Jeremiah also prophesied of the end of the old and beginning of the new covenant and the reign of Christ Jesus. Against his wishes, Jeremiah was taken by refugees of Jerusalem to Egypt, where he died. Although filled with dire warnings, his book is also a book of hope and consolation that promises salvation and deliverance, even when the Lord chastises because of sin. Jeremiah’s sufferings and preaching point us to Christ who suffered for us that we may have salvation from sin, and whose words are filled with comfort and hope for all who believe.

But this is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the Lord. I will put my law in their minds, and I will write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. No longer will each one teach his neighbor, or each one teach his brother, saying, “Know the Lord,” because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest, declares the Lord, for I will forgive their guilt, and I will remember their sins no more.

Jeremiah 31:33-34

June 27: Cyril of Alexandria, Pastor and Confessor

Cyril (c. AD 337 – 444) was the Patriarch of Alexandria and a highly influential theologian in the Nestorian controversy where he courageously argued for the teaching that while Christ Jesus has two complete natures, He is yet one person. When the Patriarch of Constantinople Nestorius began teaching that it was right to call Mary the Mother of Christ but not the Mother of God, because she could only give birth to His human nature, Cyril came to the defense of the doctrine of the hypostatic union, that is: that in Jesus there are two complete natures, yet one person (Greek, hypostasis). Thus, everything He did He did as both God and Man in one Person. Cyril’s writings proved influential at the Council of Ephesus which condemned Nestorius’ position for effectively making two Christs. Cyril’s writings were also very influential on the Reformers and his Christology is clearly evident in the Formula of Concord and he is quoted very often in the Catalog of Testimonies. Martin Chemnitz, who wrote On the Two Natures of Christ, found in Cyril and fellow workman in the defense of this doctrine. Thus, we give thanks to God for preserving this doctrine through Cyril’s confession and faithful teaching.

 But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son to be born of a woman, so that he would be born under the law, in order to redeem those under the law, so that we would be adopted as sons.

Galatians 4:4-5

June 28: Irenaeus of Lyons, Pastor

Irenaeus (c. AD 130 – c. 202) was the bishop of Lyons in southern France and known for his defense of the true faith against Gnostics who were attempting to disrupt the Church. In early 177 Irenaeus was sent to Rome as a presbyter to deliver a letter to the bishop of Rome. While he was in Rome the persecution of Christians in Lyons took place so that 48 Christians were put to death for their faith, including the leader of the local church. When he returned, he was made bishop and faithfully led the people. Part of his role was writing against the Gnostics, who also claimed to follow Christ, in order to both defend the true faith as well as to inform and guard the congregations from this deadly false teaching Irenaeus wrote Against Heresies which systematically showed the errors of Gnosticism and showed forth the true teaching of the faith according to the Scriptures. It is not known whether Irenaeus died a martyr or in peace, as different sources vary, but he is remembered for his faithful leadership in Lyons including his defense of the faith. 

But you, O man of God, flee from these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness.

1 Timothy 6:11

June 29: St. Peter and St. Paul, Apostles

St. Peter (c. AD 1 – c. 64/67) and St. Paul (c. AD 5 – c. 64/67) were apostles of the Lord Jesus, and two very important missionaries in the early Church as presented in Acts. Peter (also known in the Scriptures as Simon, Simon Peter, and Cephas) was the brother of Andrew and like him was originally a disciple of John the Baptist before being called by our Lord Jesus Christ. He, along with James and John were part of the inner group within the Twelve and witnesses of the Transfiguration, the raising of Jairus’ daughter, and other miracles. Peter originally claimed that he would rather die with Jesus than deny Him on the night when He was betrayed (Matt 26:30-35), but according to the Lord’s word, he did indeed deny Jesus three times (Matt 26:69-75). Yet, after the resurrection Peter was restored by the Lord (John 21:15-19) and after the ascension was a prominent leader in the Church and boldly proclaimed the Gospel message. Because of his evangelism among his people he is sometimes known as the Apostle to the Jews.

Paul (also known as Saul) was a member of the party of the Pharisees and originally a harsh opponent of the faith, ravaging churches by persecuting Christians (Acts 8:2, 9:3). However, the Lord appeared to him on the way to Damascus, for he was a chosen instrument of His in order to bring the Gospel to the nations (Acts 19:1-19). Paul went on multiple missionary journeys which took him throughout the land around the Medditerranian. Because he preached the Gospel far and wide he also wrote many letters to churches he both founded, visited, and would later visit. Almost half of the New Testament books were written by Paul, more than any other New Testament writer. Because of his evangelism to the nations he is sometimes known as the Apostle to the Gentiles.

According to tradition, both St. Peter and St. Paul were martyred on the same day under Emperor Nero. Peter was crucified (according to the word of Christ in John 21:18-19), tradition said that he asked to be crucified upside down because he was not worthy of dying in the same way as his Lord. As Paul was a Roman citizen, he was martyred by beheading. In both Peter and Paul we see the grace of our Lord in that He forgave Peter of his denial and Paul of his persecution and bringing them to saving faith.

He also showed that there is no distinction between us and them, cleansing their hearts by faith.  Now then, why are you testing God by putting on the necks of the disciples a yoke, which neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear? On the contrary! We believe that we are saved in the same way they are—through the grace of our Lord Jesus.

Acts 15:9-11

In May we remember many people and events at key points in the history of the Church and see how God has always cared for His people and brought about growth to His Church. The saying goes, “April showers bring May flowers,” and this month we remember these men and women of flowers of God which He raised up and used as His instruments to bring about the growth and flourishing of His Church throughout history.

May 1: St. Philip and St. James, Apostles

St. Philip (1st century AD – 80) is one of the Twelve Apostles and is not to be confused with Philip the Deacon who is featured prominently in Acts. St. Philip is listed in the apostolic lists in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, but other than that does not appear. However, in John, Philip is featured prominently in a number of events including the feeding of the five thousand where Jesus tests Philip by asking him where they will buy bread (John 6:1-7); Philip was approached by some Greeks who wished to see Jesus as He neared His passion (John 12:20-23); and he asked Jesus to show them the Father when they were gathered at the Last Supper to which Jesus answers “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father,” (John 14:1-14). Philip is also a great example of the way Christians witness to friends and family, for after being called by Jesus as a disciple Philip finds his friend Nathaniel to tell him about Jesus (John 1:43-45).

St. James (1st century AD) the Less, also known as the son of Alphaeus, is like Philip, one of the Twelve. Like Philip, he is not to be confused with other Jameses in the New Testament including James the Greater (the son of Zebedee) and James the Just (of Jerusalem). Not much is known about James, other than that he was younger or shorter than James the son of Zebedee. Despite both being members of the Twelve we know little of Philip and James, even in extra-biblical tradition. However, in this we see an example for us in the faith today. Not much is recorded because it would seem, not much is extraordinary about them. They were called by the Lord and they continued steadfast in their vocation with no care as to whether they would be remembered, only focusing on sharing the Gospel so that more would know Jesus as the Christ, the Son of God, and be saved.

Philip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.”

John 1:45

May 2: Athanasius of Alexandria, Pastor and Confessor

Athanasius of Alexandria (c. 296/298 – May 2, 373), was bishop of Alexandria, staunch defender of the deity of Christ, and theologian. Athanasius was born to a Christian family and was given a good secular education. While still a deacon he wrote his famous treatise On the Incarnation of the Word of God which clearly and beautifully teaches on the incarnation of the Word in human flesh. He was close to his bishop Alexander and accompanied him to the Council of Nicea which was convened in 325 in order to deal with the heresy of Arius, a presbyter from Alexandria who argued that Jesus was not fully God. At the death of Alexander Athanasius was elected bishop of Alexandria and continued to steadfastly defend the deity of Christ and His being of “one substance with the Father.” His outspoken defense of Christ’s deity would cause him trouble with Arian (Constantine II), pagan (Julian the Apostate), and Arian friendly (Valens) emperors. Because of this, he would be exiled five times while bishop of Alexandria. While not written by him, the Athanasian Creed is named in his honour because it confesses the same truth which he defended throughout his life.

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

John 1:1

May 4: Friedrich Wyneken, Pastor and Missionary

Friedrich Conrad Dietrich Wyneken (May 13, 1810 – May 4, 1876), was a missionary in the Americas and pastor who helped with the formation of the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Wyneken was born in the Kingdom of Hanover and came to America in order to serve the many Lutherans who at this time had a very difficult time getting pastors. In addition to his time he served as a parish pastor in Friedheim and Fort Wayne, Indiana, he also served as a missionary to the First Nations people in Indiana, Ohio, and Michigan. In response to the difficulties he saw among German Lutherans in getting pastors, he wrote “The Distress of the German Lutherans in North America” calling on Europeans to send pastors to North America. This book is that which inspired Wilhelm Loehe to begin his work of training and sending pastors to North America. He also founded Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne and was its first president. As the second president of the LCMS he helped to continue to shape its confessional character and helped to organize it, gathering German speaking Lutherans together from Canada to South America.

And how can they preach unless they are sent? Just as it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news of peace, who preach the gospel of good things!

Romans 10:15

May 5: Frederick the Wise, Christian Ruler

Frederick the Wise (January 17, 1463 – May 5, 1525), was Elector of Saxony and is remembered as a wise and just Christian ruler. Frederick founded the University of Wittenberg, which would become a centre of the Reformation and Reformation teachers. He fought for the cause of justice regarding the various trials of Martin Luther, ensuring that he would not be treated by the Empire like Jan Hus, that is, promised a fair trial and safety but then executed. Because of this, he refused to let Luther go to Rome to face trial. Following the Diet of Worms in 1521 when Luther was formally declared an outlaw in the Empire and thus could be killed by anyone with impunity, Frederick had him kidnapped and hid in Wartburg Castle so that he would be protected from those who sought his life. On his deathbed Frederick received Holy Communion in both kinds, a mark of his confession of the Evangelical faith. He was succeeded by his brother, John the Steadfast, who continued to provide protection for the Reformers in Saxony and advanced the cause of the Reformation among other princes and rulers. 

For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to evil. Would you like to have no fear of the one in authority? Do what is good, and you will receive praise from him.

Romans 13:3

May 7: C. F. W. Walther, Theologian

Carl Ferdinand Wilhelm Walther (October 25, 1811 – May 7, 1887) was a pastor and important theologian, not just in the founding of the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod, but for all Lutherans. Walther was one of the pastors who emigrated with the group of pastors and lay people to the United States under Bishop Martin Stephen in order to freely worship after fears of a Union Church (a forced merger of Lutherans and Reformed) began in Saxony. After the sexual misconduct of Martin Stephen resulted in his defrocking and exile, there were serious questions among the immigrants as to whether they were still a church without a bishop. Walther rose to prominence at this time, arguing from the Scriptures and the writings of Luther that a bishop was not of the necessity of the church, but instead it was the pastoral office and laypeople together who made up the church. In the founding of the LCMS, Walther supported a strong confessional position, and encouraged familiarity with the Augsburg Confession among the laity. He founded Der Lutheraner, a magazine which helped to bring many independent German Lutheran congregations into the LCMS. He also founded Concordia Seminary in St. Louis and was its first president. Important works of his include On the Proper Distinction Between Law and Gospel, and Church and Ministry. He also served twice as president of the LCMS.

You see, if I preach the gospel, I have nothing to boast about, because an obligation is laid on me, and woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!

1 Corinthians 9:16

May 9: Job

Job (late 3rd or early 2nd millennium BC) was a blameless and upright man from the land of Uz (Job 1:1) (thought to be connected with Edom, on the west of the Jordan River) and the main person in the book that bears his name. Job was not an Israelite, but predated Jacob, and thus is an example of God’s mercy and love in always ensuring a remnant and that He is remembered. Job, like Melchizedek (another righteous non-Israelite), would have learned of the Lord from the descendants of Noah after the flood who kept the worship of the Lord alive. In the book of Job we see how in the midst of so many trials and temptations that Job remained faithful and steadfast to the Lord God. Because of this, he is cited and alluded to numerous times as an example of steadfastness in the New Testament (Jas. 5:11, 1 Cor. 10:13, 2 Cor. 12:7-10). In the midst of his suffering, Job also confessed the belief in the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come, and in doing so, he also prophesied of the coming Messiah who is God and Man in one person (Job 19:23-27). Thus, Job is an example of faithfulness and patience in suffering and holding to the hope of the resurrection and eternal life in the new heavens and new earth.

As for me, I know that my Redeemer lives, and that at the end of time he will stand over the dust. Then, even after my skin has been destroyed, nevertheless, in my own flesh I will see God.

Job 19:25-26

May 11: Cyril and Methodius, Missionaries to the Slavs

Cyril (826 – 869) and Methodius (815 – 885) were two brothers who together through their mission work among the Slavic peoples brought the light of Christ to them. Cyril and Methodius were from Thessolonica and later moved to Constantinople for theological and philosophical study. Around 860, Cyril was first sent as a missionary to the Khazars. By 862, both Cyril and Methodius were sent as missionaries to the Slavic kingdom of Great Moravia. While there, they worked tirelessly to bring the faith to the Slavic peoples. Rather than working in Latin (the language of the West) or Greek (the language of the East and their native language), the two brothers evangelized in the local language. They even invented an alphabet in order to help in the spreading of the faith so that the Scriptures could be translated and passed on in Slavonic. In addition, they used the local language in the liturgy that they developed for the Churches. Combined with the translation of the Scripture this meant that the people would be able to worship and hear the Scripture in their own language. Cyril and Methodius are remembered for their missionary work and are an example for us today in bringing the Gospel to the people in their own language. We give thanks to God for the work among the Slavic peoples that He did through them.

Sing to the Lord a new song. Sing to the Lord, all the earth. Sing to the Lord. Praise his name. Proclaim the good news of his salvation from day to day. Tell about his glory among the nations, about his marvelous deeds among all peoples

Psalm 96:1-3

May 21: Constantine, Christian Ruler and Helena, the Mother of Constantine

Constantine (February 27, 272 – May 22, 337) was the first Christian Roman Emperor, and the one responsible for the legalization of Christianity so that it could no longer be persecuted by the government. While Constantine was raised as a pagan in the Roman imperial religion before the Battle of the Milvian Bridge on October 28, 312 the Lord showed him a vision of a staurogram (⳨) and said, “In this sign, conquer.” Constantine ordered that this be painted on all the army’s shields and when they won the battle, he credited it to the intervention of the God of the Christians. By 313, when the Edict of Milan legalized Christianity, Constantine himself was a Christian. It was under him that the First Council of Nicea was called in order to deal with the Arian heresy. 

Helena (c. 246/248 – c. 330) was the mother of Constantine and an important figure for her work in Jerusalem and Palestine. Eusebius of Caesaria, the Christian historian from the time of Constantine, said that Helena converted to the true faith shortly after her son. On a pilgrimage to Jerusalem Helena searched for where the local Christians held that many of the events of Christ’s life took place. At her direction both the Church of the Holy Sepulchre (at the site of Jesus’ death and burial) and the Church of the Nativity (at the place of His birth) were built. According to tradition, she is said to have also discovered the true cross while they were building the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, but this cannot be certain. Together, her and her son are examples of Christian rulers who work to promote peace so that the Gospel of Christ may have free course throughout the realm.

[Wisdom says,] By me kings reign, and rulers administer justice. By me officials govern, as well as nobles and all just judges. I certainly love those who love me, and those who eagerly look for me find me.

Proverbs 8:15-17

May 24: Esther

Esther (500s – mid 400s BC), was a Jewish exile and eventually queen wife of Xerxes I of Persia (Ahasuerus in Hebrew). While in exile, the Lord raised up Esther and used her influence in order to save His people from the plot of Haman after it was discovered by her adoptive father, Mordechai (Esther 2:19-7:10). In order for this to happen, she needed to approach and speak to the king, something which was forbidden and punishable by death if the king did not accept her (Esther 4:11). By God’s grace, Xerxes heard her, and she was able to tell him of the plot of Haman to kill the Jewish people, including her. At this, Xerxes ordered Haman and all the enemies of the Jewish people in Sus, the capital city, to be killed. In great irony Haman was hung on the very gallows he built to hang Mordechai and the other Jews. The Jewish Feast of Purim is held in honour of Esther and God’s deliverance through her. For us Christians she is an example of courage in the face of danger and speaking up for what is right. 

If at this time you keep totally silent, relief and deliverance for the Jews will spring up from somewhere, but you and the house of your father will perish. Who knows whether you have become queen for a time like this!

Esther 4:14

May 25: Bede the Venerable, Theologian

Bede (c. 672 – May 26, 735) was an English monk in Northumbria and is known for his historical writings regarding the Church in England as well as his theology. Today Bede is most known for his work, The Ecclesiastical History of the English People, a book that documents the history of the Gospel in England, and a good source of history for the time period. He is also known for helping to popularize the method of dating we use today, Anno Domini, which uses the time of Christ’s birth as the dividing line. However, in his own day and after Bede was known as a theologian. He wrote commentaries on multiple books of the Bible and was also known for his preaching in the monastery where he lived. Today his sermons and commentaries are still valuable resources exegeting the Scriptures and pointing to the centrality of Christ. At the end of his life Bede translated the Gospel of John into Old English demonstrating the importance to him of having the Gospel in the language of the people.

[Jesus] said to them, “Therefore every expert in the law who has been trained as a disciple in the kingdom of heaven is like the owner of a house who brings out of his treasure both new things and old things.”

Matthew 13:52

May 31: The Visitation (Three Year Lectionary)

The Visitation of St. Mary to St. Elizabeth, is a feast which celebrates and commemorates the visit of the Virgin Mary, the Mother of our Lord, to her relative Elizabeth following the annunciation. This event is found in the Scriptures in Luke 1:39-56. In this event in the life of our Saviour we have many memorable scenes which declare what our Lord came to do. It is here where Elizabeth calls Mary, “The mother of my Lord,” confessing the divinity of the Son that Mary carried within her womb. Here too, the Holy Spirit causes St. John the Baptist, still in the womb of his mother Elizabeth, jumped with joy at hearing the sound of Mary’s voice. Thus, even in the womb, John the Baptist pointed to Christ. Finally, it is during the visitation where the Magnificat, the song of Mary, is recorded. The Magnificat is a wonderful hymn of praise which speaks to all that the Lord God will do through Mary’s Son, the Son of God, and as such has been remembered by the Church in having it as the canticle sung at Vespers. If a congregation is following the One Year Lectionary, this feast is celebrated in July.

Just as Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. She called out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why am I so favored that the mother of my Lord should come to me?”

Luke 1:41-43

Truth, goodness, and beauty are sometimes referred to as transcendentals, those things that come before and excel everything else. These things find their fullness in God who is the Truth, Goodness, and Beauty beyond all measure. Likewise, these things are reflected in creation, and in His creatures. This is also true in His people, the Church. This month we remember those who have gone before us who have, in the service of God, demonstrated these things including artists, parish pastors, and theologians. Through all these, our Lord has shown us His desire to save all people and has given us pictures of His grace in the lives of people.

All of these saints and days can be found in the Lutheran Service Book on pages xi-xiii. Those that are italicized are not found in LSB, but are in Liturgies et Cantiques Luthériens, the French language hymnal prepared by LCC and used by our French-speaking sister congregations as well as French Lutherans around the world. These can also be found on pages xi-xiii of the LCL.

All Scripture quotations are from the Evangelical Heritage Version.

April 6: Lucas Cranach and Albrecht Duerer, Artists

Lucas Cranach (c. 1472 – October 16, 1553) and Albrecht Duerer (May 2, 1471 – April 6, 1528) were two of the brightest lights in the Northern Renaissance. Both of these artists used their art to glorify God and depict the beauty of His creation. Lucas Cranach was the court painter of Frederick the Wise, Elector of Saxony. Because of this he had ready access to Luther and the other reformers and theologians in Wittenburg. Cranach supported the work of the Reformation and used his workshop to create paintings and woodcuts which proclaimed the Gospel and Scriptural teachings. He was also responsible for painting many of the portraits of those associated with the Reformation. Some of his other great works included many altar pieces which still adorn churches in Germany. Albrecht Duerer was court painter for Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I. After the emperor died, he returned to his hometown of Nuremberg, where he continued to work. Duerer also had many religious themes in his artwork, including woodcut series on the Revelation to St. John as well as the Passion of our Lord. His own writings and those of his friends demonstrate that he too was a supporter of the Reformation. The council and mayor of his city, Nuremberg, was one of the original presenters of the Augsburg Confession in 1530. Both of these men in their vocation as artists glorified God through their skill as well as in much of the subject matter of their paintings. We give thanks to God for them and how God has shone through them as well as for all artists who continue to skillfully work today.

Ascribe to the Lord the glory of his name. Bring an offering and come before him. Worship the Lord in the splendor of holiness.

1 Chronicles 16:29

April 20: Johannes Bugenhagen, Pastor

Johannes Bugenhagen (June 24, 1485 – April 20, 1558), also known as Pomeranius, was a parish pastor in Wittenberg and responsible for organizing the reforming Church in Pomerania and Denmark-Norway. Bugenhagen was the parish pastor at St. Mary’s in Wittenberg during the Reformation and so often shared preaching and teaching duties with Martin Luther. One of the gifts which God had given Bugenhagen was that of organization and administration. This is demonstrated in his helping with Luther’s translation of the Bible, writing new Church Orders for a number of northern territories including Demnark-Norway, and eventually being appointed Superintendent of the Church in Saxony and overseeing all other pastors. In recognition of the importance of his work in Scandinavia, he is sometimes known as “the second apostle to the north” for his work in bringing the pure Gospel to the people whom Ansgar (the first “apostle to the north”) first brought the Gospel. In all of this, he was still also a pastor to the people in Wittenberg and continued to preach and administer the sacraments. Following Luther’s death Bugenhagen cared for his widow and children. We give thanks to God for the grace he has shown us in His servant Johannes Bugenhagen, and pray that He would continue to uphold all pastors in their vocations of serving His people.

He himself gave the apostles, as well as the prophets, as well as the evangelists, as well as the pastors and teachers, for the purpose of training the saints for the work of serving, in order to build up the body of Christ.

Ephesians 4:11-12

April 21: Anselm of Canterbury, Theologian

Anselm of Canterbury (c. 1033 – April 21, 1109) was an Archbishop of Canterbury and author of a very important and influential work on the incarnation and atonement. Anselm grew up in what is now Italy and after a time of carefree living eventually ended up in a monastery in Bec, France. Due to his relationship with Lafranc, the last Archbishop of Canterbury, the English bishops earnestly desired to have Anselm take his place. While originally reluctant, he accepted the position. As archbishop, Anselm took up the job of reforming the Church in England, including dealing with the investiture controversy. As a result, he ran into conflict with the secular authorities and was exiled on more than one occasion. In the midst of all this Anselm wrote many theological and philosophical writings. Because of this he is known as the Father of Scholasticism. One of his most important works, Cur Deus Homo (Why the God-Man? or Why did God Become Man?), explores purpose of the incarnation according to the Scriptures and what happened in the atonement. In it, he beautifully writes and explains Christ making satisfaction for sins by means of being a substitute for humanity in His death. We give thanks to God for Anselm, who taught the truth and clearly pointed to Christ as our substitute who vicariously died for us.

For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in [Jesus], and through him to reconcile all things to himself (whether things on earth or in heaven) by making peace through the blood of his cross.

Colossians 1:19-20

April 23: George, Martyr

George (d. April 23, 303) was a soldier in the Roman military, and martyr in the Roman Emperor Diocletian’s persecution of Christians within the army. Not too much is known of George’s life. He was born to a father of Greek background and mother from Palestine in the province of Cappadocia in modern day Turkey. After his father’s death, George and his mother returned to Palestine. It was there where he joined the Roman army. As a soldier, George did not hide his faith in Christ, but openly followed the Lord. As a result, he would not pray to the specific pagan gods associated with his legion nor to the emperor. When Diocletian ordered the persecution of Christians George refused to give up the faith and so was executed. The Holy Spirit, working through George’s proclamation of Christ in his death, brought some of the witnesses of his martyrdom to faith in Christ. Around 700 years later, the account of his life grew so great that it was said he saved an entire village from a dragon. While this much later addition is legendary, we know George was a faithful witness for Christ and even today gives us encouragement to remain faithful to Christ even in the face of death.

But you, O man of God, flee from these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith. Take hold of eternal life, to which you were called and about which you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.

1 Timothy 6:11-12

April 24: Johann Walter, Kantor

Johann Walter (1496 – March 25, 1570) was a composer of sacred music during the time of the Reformation. Walter was the chief cantor in the court of Duke Frederick the Wise of Saxony. Walter wrote the music for many of the early evangelical hymns, putting the Gospel message and teaching of true doctrine into the mouths of clergy and laypeople alike in the form of song. Because he was in Wittenberg, Walter often worked with Luther to write tunes and setting the for choir. Some examples are the credal hymn “We All Believe in One True God,” the Easter hymn “Christ Jesus Lay in Death’s Strong Bands,” and other hymns such as “A Mighty Fortress is Our God” (click here for a choral setting of “A Mighty Fortress”). Walter also was the editor of the first hymnal made for choirs during the Reformation, allowing the truth of God to be spread by song and to accompany the Word of God with beauty. He also wrote hymn texts as well, and in our hymnal we can find this in LSB 514, “The Bridegroom Soon Will Call Us.” Following the death of Frederick the Wise Walter accepted a call to be the cantor of the choir in Torgau where he continued to praise and glorify God through his music while also teaching the faith and building up the Church. We give thanks to God for Johann Walter and all other church musicians and all musicians who glorify God with their talents.

Shout for joy, you heavens, because of what the Lord is doing. Make a joyful shout, you depths of the earth. Burst forth with shouts of joy, you mountains, you forest and every tree in it, because the Lord has redeemed Jacob, and in Israel he will display his beauty.

Isaiah 44:23

April 25: St. Mark, Evangelist

St. Mark (5 – April 25, 68) the evangelist is one of the four writers of the Gospels which we have in the Holy Scriptures giving us an account of the Lord Jesus Christ’s life, death, and resurrection. Mark’s Gospel gives us the name for the four books because it begins “The beginning of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God” (Mark 1:1). Mark is often identified with John Mark, the cousin of Barnabas, who is mentioned throughout the book of Acts as a companion of St. Paul and Barnabas (Acts 12:25, 13:5, 13:13-14, 15:37-40). Marks’ Gospel is often characterized as fast moving. It begins with the ministry of John the Baptist and the baptism of Jesus and continues with events happening one after another after another. Many times these events in Jesus’ life are connected with the adverb, “immediately.” Because of a number of thoughts of Peter in the Gospel (such as Mark 9:5-6 “Peter said to Jesus, ‘Rabbi, it is good for us to be here. Let us make three tents: one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.’ He did not know what to say because they were terrified.”) it is traditionally said that Peter was the source for Mark’s Gospel, for he himself was not an eyewitness to these things. Traditionally Mark is said to have later went to Egypt after he completed his Gospel, where he founded the Church in Alexandria. In art, each of the four evangelists are identified with one of the four living creatures in Revelation. Mark is identified with the winged lion because of the forcefulness of which he presents Jesus’ preaching and teaching. In the three year lectionary the second year is dedicated to focusing primarily on Mark’s Gospel, as we are this year. We give thanks to God for His apostles and evangelists through whom He brought the word of salvation to so many in their day and continues to do so through their words in His Church.

The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

Mark 1:1