When we want something to be perfect, we practice it over and over until it becomes part of us. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus encourages His followers to practice being perfect, because God already sees them that way, through faith in Christ.

Jesus said His followers would be light for the world. Dr. Michael Zeigler reflects on the nature of that light and the power behind it.

Many of us know what it’s like to try out for a team, for a role in a play, or first chair in the band. We might have been chosen first. We might have been chosen last. We might not have been chosen at all. We might have been cut. So, how does God choose His team?

To be blessed is more than just having good luck. When God blesses, He delivers. Hear how God blesses the poor in spirit and makes them the salt of the earth.

Christ’s Word of peace to those who have grown weary of words.

God saves people and then invites them to join Him in His mission to save others. And He gives instructions to help along the way. That’s the story the Bible tells and it illustrates the shape and order of the Christian life.

“Jesus will stop at nothing to get your attention, to get you, to grab hold of you. Even though He is the King of Kings and Heir of all creation, He came to serve you. Though He holds the keys of death and hell in His hand, He gave Himself to save you—because you matter to Him.”

Dignity, humility, and life in the presence of God: “Imagine your father or your father-in-law comes to your work and you spend the whole day showing him all the important things that you do. And the first thing he says to you is, ‘This is no good. Let me give you some advice.’ How would you react?”

“God doesn’t have to figure out something about you that He doesn’t already know. He doesn’t have to figure out if He loves you or if He’s committed to you or if you’re worth it. God’s not testing you to figure something out about you He didn’t already know. He’s testing you so that you can figure out something about Him that you didn’t know, so that you can figure out that you can trust Him.”

“Being pursued is a terrifying place to be. And, unfortunately, we all live there. But the good news is that we’re not the only ones being pursued. You and I have a Lord Who pursues the pursuer. We have a Saviour Who will not let the enemy of His people have the last word.”

Christians are not immune from relapses into sin and doubt. A Christian is at the same time both saint and sinner. Dr. Michael Zeigler tells how God loves us through our relapses.

“To believe is more than just acknowledging that Jesus is risen from the dead; it includes that, but there’s more. It’s about where you lay your fears, where you rest your concerns. It has to do with what gets your attention—with what gets you.”

Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, when Christians around the world remember the events leading up to the trial, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Dr. Michael Zeigler sets this within the context of the Exodus, the story of how God led His people to freedom out of slavery in Egypt.

The plagues described in the Book of Exodus show us what the wrath of God looks like. However, they also show the lengths to which God will go to save His people. These signs of God’s power are “labours of love” that seek to turn hardened hearts toward Him.

A weed is a stubborn thing, pushing its way up through a crack in the sidewalk. The human heart is a stubborn thing, insisting on going its own way. Dr. Michael Zeigler says God is stubborn, too. He talks about the stubborn love of God that reaches out to restore our relationship with our Creator.

Confiscation is a bad word. No one likes having their “stuff” confiscated. But what if it’s God Who does the confiscating? Dr. Michael Zeigler says God may take away some blessings He once gave in order to give back even more. Hear about God’s “Gracious Confiscation” in the book of Exodus and in our lives.

Dr. Michael Zeigler says forgiveness changes the way we experience real life, as God’s forgiving love cancels the continuous playback of our regrets.

Something needs to be done or said, and you find yourself called upon to do it. You might feel alone—but you’re not alone.

Jesus knows our failures, fears, pain and loss. He knows—and He knows how to lift us up and bring us through

Even in unhappy families, God is working to bring about good things. Dr. Dean Nadasdy says, “Where God is at work, treasured families can be restored.”

Sometimes, the difference between then and now, between what used to be and what is, comes in a single moment, a defining act. We call that a breakthrough. From living only for oneself to selfless giving of oneself, Dr. Michael Zeigler talks about the breakthrough that leads to new life.

Without the fire of the refiner’s forge, there can be no glittering gold. And so it is with us. You are more precious to God than gold. But, like gold, you and I need refining. Dr. Michael Zeigler tells how God refines through the crucible of Christ’s cross.

To rise, to fall, and rise again—everyone loves a good comeback story—but why? Maybe it’s because we are in one. Dr. Michael Zeigler says that’s the claim the Bible makes.

We might forget names and faces, dates and places, but God remembers those who are His through faith in Christ. To God, they are unforgettable. Dr. Dean Nadasdy says, as we remember Jesus in faith, even more so does God remember us.

Even at our lowest and worst, God wants to be with us—and, in Jesus, He is.

In the martial art called judo, the defender uses the force of the aggressor to defeat the aggressor. Dr. Michael Zeigler says that’s what God did at the cross of Jesus. He performed “spiritual judo.”

From the days of the prophet Jeremiah to our own, some things haven’t changed all that much. There’s still corruption, violence, injustice, tragedy, and suffering. That’s the bad news. However, “the Word of the Lord endures forever.” So does God’s love for us in Jesus Christ. And that’s the Good News.

So long as there is time, God won’t leave us alone—even if we say that’s what we want. The message of Christmas is that God has come to be with us and He’s here to stay. How do we know? Dr. Michael Zeigler says God has given us both direct and indirect signs that point us toward this truth.

God shows us a different kind of love. It’s love for the world that is not of this world, love that is focused outward, love that gives without requiring anything in return. Dr. Michael Zeigler talks about that love and how to put it into practice.

If we say that God’s purpose is simply to take our souls to heaven when we die, we might miss God’s bigger ‘yes’ … God’s ‘yes’ to putting bodies and souls back together again in the resurrection; God’s ‘yes’ to creation as He intended it to be.

We are not always who we say we are. What you say to yourself about yourself may or may not be what’s true. Dr. Michael Zeigler says, “Enough with the self-talk!” Who does God say you are? You’ll find that you are worse than you thought, and yet, more loved than you could ever imagine.

Love is not a transaction; it’s a gift from God to you.

Have you ever been asked to sacrifice what you love the most? Hear how God Himself made the costly sacrifice He wouldn’t let Abraham finish.

How do you deal with something that spoils the mood and brings everyone down? Dr. Michael Zeigler talks about an apparent “downer” that God used to lift us up.

Human beings have a frightening capacity for both good and evil. The different ways we relate to strangers reveal the contradiction of being human. Dr. Michael Zeigler explores this human contradiction and how God resolves it.

The signs along a hiking trail help to keep us on the right path. Dr. Michael Zeigler says, for the Christian, baptism is a sign like that, to remind us of who we are and where we’re going

Dr. Michael Zeigler talks about seeing ourselves from God’s perspective and of being seen through the lens of Christ’s cross and resurrection.

Pastor Ryan Tinetti explains what it means to “cut a covenant” and how God even keeps our part of the deal - because we couldn’t.

How do we find security in an uncertain world? By gaining more knowledge? Or by somehow getting on God’s “good side?” No, Dr. Michael Zeigler says there’s a better way, the one that God has made for us, through the death and resurrection of Jesus. In Christ, God draws us homeward to Himself.

Dr. Michael Zeigler helps us to better understand how God felt when He did what had to be done, in the Flood and on the cross.

An intervention brings help from the outside to someone who’s not yet quite ready to seek it on their own. Dr. Michael Zeigler says an intervention also describes how God works in our lives.

For all that’s good and beautiful in the world, it is still broken and suffering under a curse. Dr. Michael Zeigler tells what God has done, is doing, and will do to set things right again. Hear how the curse of God fell upon the Son of God—for you.

This week Dr. Michael Zeigler says we each have a part to play on God’s stage—with a script, without a try-out, with freedom and responsibility. How will you play your part?

The book of Genesis tells us that God made all things. But it won’t answer every question about when, how, and why God did it. That’s because Genesis is mostly about getting to know God.

A rule is more than a suggestion. Do God’s rules apply to you?

How to have a closed mind that’s open to the future and the things of God.

Learn about prayer that flows from faith in Christ.

God’s Word guides us along life’s journey, where Christ is the Way and heaven our destination.

The world says don’t get mad, get even. Pastor David Haberstock says, don’t do either; leave it up to God.

Learn how the core teachings of the Bible help to create and sustain our relationship with God and with others.

Baptism connects us to Jesus’ death and resurrection and marks a turning point in the life of a Christian.

Learn how prayer becomes a conversation with the God Who is genuinely and eternally interested in us.

Learn how the Apostles’ Creed expresses God’s identity and helps us get to know God better.

The Ten Commandments are more than a list of do’s and don’ts. They help us get to know God better because they express His values—what He loves and what He hates.

What’s the difference between knowing someone and just knowing about them? Learn how relationship language helps us get to know God better.

Can these dry bones live? Hear how God’s promise to the prophet Ezekiel is fulfilled in the resurrection of Christ.

Unseen and yet present through His Word and Sacraments, Jesus has sent the Holy Spirit to be our Advocate and Guide. Hear about the work of the Spirit with Dr. Michael Zeigler.

Who is the Holy Spirit and what does He do? The Holy Spirit’s number 1 mission is to make Jesus known. How He does that will vary from time to time, from place to place, and from one Christian to another. Dr. Michael Zeigler talks about the variety and the unity of the Holy Spirit’s work in the Church.

Jesus once helped His disciples catch 153 fish. Pastor Ryan Tinetti reflects on this curious detail and what it says about Jesus’ work in your life.

Hear how Jesus converts death into life and doubt into faith.

How valuable is a handful of mud? Hear how the muddy water of an Asian rice paddy teaches us about the flow of life and of God’s love for you, in Christ. Dr. Michael Zeigler says the God Who made the earth is also the God Who gets down into the mud with us, to lift us up out of it.

Dr. Michael Zeigler recounts the events of Good Friday as recorded in the Gospel according to St. John and his guests tell how faith in Christ brings us freedom from fear and creates unity among people from diverse backgrounds. In Christ, we receive a gift we want to share with others.

God is not the cause of the darkness. God is not the source of the darkness. The Adversary has brought darkness into God’s world. God is at work through the darkness. God is working like a double agent in the darkness to overthrow the darkness.

What is the key to a life worth living? Dr. Michael Zeigler tells a story of perseverance despite persecution.

Is death the end of all that came before, the beginning of what comes next—or something altogether different? Hear Dr. Michael Zeigler’s message.

God’s Law is like a perfect piece of music that only the composer’s Son could perform perfectly.

This week on The Lutheran Hour, a man who was born blind becomes the “visible stand-in” for the Saviour Who healed him.

If God is the Heavenly Father, who are His children? This week Dr. Michael Zeigler says God wants to be everybody’s Father—through faith in the Son He sent to redeem us.

God provides us with our daily bread, that is, everything we need from day to day. But there’s more to life than bread!

Christians want to share their faith with others, but division, distance, and doctrinal disagreement often get in the way and derail those efforts. Hear how Jesus used a simple conversation to bring about conversion.

Heaven is a space from which God rules and reigns over the whole Creation. And in Jesus, heaven has come to earth. Jesus is the place where heaven and earth overlap and intersect. So what does this mean for us? It means that the night is over and it’s time to stop snoozing and wake up!

Some problems can be quickly resolved. Others require us to interact with people, take time to know them, get involved with them. The Gospel is the answer to the hidden problem that separates us from God and from each other.

What do you need Jesus to restore for you? Where have you come up short? Know that Jesus has come to restore you—but not in your way, not in your time. In God’s way.

Faith does not exempt us from experiencing periods of loneliness and seasons of sadness. Dr. Tony Cook speaks for and to those who are living through what’s been called “the dark night of the soul.”

The people who wrote the Bible had reason to believe Jesus is the Savior of the world. But why should you believe it?

As you speak to others, do your words turn toward them, against them, or away from them? Hear how relationships are built through God’s Word to us and our words to each other.

Christ was born to save the world—but He was also born to save you.

Meet a king whose strength, bravery, and kindness inspires us to be braver, stronger and kinder.

What is joy? Dr. Tony Cook says joy is more than an emotion; it’s a certainty based on the sacrificial work of Christ for you.

To redeem is to buy back, rescue, liberate, ransom. Hear how Jesus’ redemptive love empowers us to serve others, in His name.

Do you have doubts? Feel like you don’t belong? The Bible’s book of Ruth tells the story of two widows and a farmer who lived 3,000 years ago. It’s also the story of how God works through ordinary people to accomplish His purposes.

Can old news still be good news? Dr. Michael Zeigler says yes, especially when it shows that Jesus is who He says He is.

Hear our guest speaker, Dr. Tony Cook, with a message about sin, sacrifices, and seaweed.

If you’ve ever thought of heaven as a place, like a venue for a really big wedding reception, Dr. Michael Zeigler wants you to know it’s much more than that.

Heaven is often pictured as eternal, everlasting bliss and blessedness. So, what’s the problem with heaven? This week on The Lutheran Hour, Dr. Michael Zeigler says it’s not so much who gets in—but rather, will we like it?

Do you feel like you are just a character in a bewildering story, at the mercy of an unreachable Author? This week on The Lutheran Hour, Dr. Michael Zeigler says your life is really a great work of non-fiction by an Author Who truly loves His creation.

To a world of relentless change, the Church brings a message that causes some to laugh and others to stumble. However, it is the message that gives life and hope to those who receive it in faith.

Fear is a fact of life, but faith in God harnesses fear and points it in the right direction.

“Life unworthy of life” was a slogan used to justify some of history’s worst atrocities. Rev. Perry Hart warns against our culture’s devaluation of life. He urges us to see ourselves and others as precious people, created by God and redeemed by Christ.

Jesus talked about cutting off hands and plucking out eyes if they lead us into sin. Radical surgery, for sure. But something even more radical was needed to redeem us from sin. Dr. Lawrence Rast tells how Jesus allowed Himself to be cut off—for us.

Animals don’t pray before they eat—but we can. Learn how the simple words of a common table prayer remind us of God’s good gifts and the spiritual dimension of everyday life as we present a classic message from Dr. Dale Meyer.

“The hiddenness of God, which is undeniable, becomes the openness of God when you see His Son, Jesus Christ. That is why we keep proclaiming Jesus Christ to people all over the world.” A classic message from Dr. Oswald Hoffmann.

Another classic message from the archives featuring the program’s founder and first speaker Dr. Walter Maier in a sermon first broadcast in 1937.

“The Good News is really good; good enough to believe, good enough to trust … Salvation is by faith in Christ, by faith from beginning to end … All of it is good news, and all of it is in Christ” A classic message from Dr. Oswald Hoffmann.

“We’re not open-minded when it comes to medicine. We believe there is a right prescription and a wrong one. Why should it be different when it comes to salvation?” Pastor Ken Klaus, on discerning what is best.

“Christian meditation is different than other kinds of meditation. Christian meditation is different because it is focused outward, focused on God Who meets and leads us through Jesus Christ.” Dr. Dale Meyer and the words of Psalm 36, in the light of Christ.

The people had seen or heard about Jesus’ miracles. They wanted Him to be their “Bread King” and provide for their every need. But Jesus refuses to be so confined, either by their expectations—or ours. In other words, Jesus refuses to be “pigeonholed.”

In our pursuit of happiness, we often turn inward instead of seeking happiness in serving others.

If the Christian Church were a boat, what kind of boat would it be? A battleship? A cruise liner? Noah’s Ark? This week on The Lutheran Hour, guest speaker Pastor Timothy Teuscher tells how the Savior Who stilled the storm with His word gets into the boat with us

It was getting late. More than 5,000 hungry people needed to be fed, and the “caterers” had only five loaves and two fish. But it was more than enough. Hear how God can take our inadequacies and use them to accomplish His purposes.

We all have feelings and emotions. It’s the way we were made and our Maker has something to say about them. Feelings and emotions are a big part of life, but life can get messy when those feelings go unchecked. Dr. Dale Meyer talks about our feelings and how they relate to God’s Word.

Each day brings with it more tragedy and trouble and raises some troubling questions. Does God exist? If so, what’s He doing and why doesn’t He do a better job of it? This week on The Lutheran Hour, Pastor Ken Klaus takes up the challenge of difficult questions and Dr. Dale Meyer points us to God’s ultimate Answer, in Christ.

This week on The Lutheran Hour, Dr. Dale Meyer says, as we get to know the people beyond our sanctuary walls, we learn that the true worship of God is not limited to what happens in church on Sunday morning. Hear how sharing our faith helps us to grow in faith.

"In a boat on a lake in the middle of a storm, Jesus’ disciples ask Him the question you and I are sometimes tempted to ask: “Jesus, don’t you care?” Pastor Ken Klaus tells how God graciously answers even our most foolish and faithless questions.

Jesus taught the disciples about God’s love, about His gracious rule and reign in our lives. And still today, Jesus’ parables have contact with the day-to-day life we live.

The Apostle Paul was shipwrecked, beaten, locked up in jail—and yet, he called it a “light momentary affliction.” How could he say that? How does it compare with what you are facing? Pastor Ken Klaus talks about patience in suffering and Dr. Dale Meyer looks at God’s purpose behind it all.

What does your calendar reveal about you and your priorities? This week on The Lutheran Hour, Dr. Dale Meyer says if you believe Jesus is the Lord of your life, He’s also Lord of your time. And Pastor Ken Klaus tells how Jesus redeems the time as we use it to serve others.

Can death hold us? Our experience says yes; however, God says otherwise. Pastor Ken Klaus tells how God makes the impossible possible. And Dr. Dale Meyer says the natural world tells us something about God, but not nearly enough.

A “functional atheist” is someone who believes in God—but lives as though God didn’t exist. Even Christian leaders can fall into that way of living, as if all depends on them and what they do.

Jesus is more than a prophet, a wise teacher, a shining example. Pastor Ken Klaus says Jesus will not fit inside the boxes we build for Him.

A broken world has many sharp edges. It teaches us to put on a tough face. People can be difficult, even mean-spirited. However, Dale Meyer says Jesus calls His followers to be different as they deal with difficult people.

The pursuit of happiness leads many into a wilderness of disappointment, even despair. However, Pastor Michael Newman says that’s where God does some of His best work. Learn how Jesus finds us in our wilderness with His gifts of hope and joy.

Beware of imitations! That applies to products but also to the object of one’s faith. Pastor Ken Klaus says God offers real reconciliation through the sacrifice of a real Saviour. And Dr. Dale Meyer recalls how a debate that took place 500 years ago in Heidelberg reshaped church and society.

When things aren’t going well, do you react out of frustration—or respond with the same grace God shows to you? Dr. Dale Meyer tells how God’s Word leads us to trust that Christ is with us always, to give us peace in all circumstances. And Pastor Ken Klaus recalls a time when he needed that reminder.

If Jesus rose only in the imaginations of His followers, as some have claimed, would those followers have been willing to die for that? Pastor Ken Klaus says the resurrection of Christ is really real, and Dr. Dale Meyer shares some of the reasons why you can believe it.

Dr. Dale Meyer says the resurrection of Jesus turns our fear of death into hope and confidence for life, now and in the future. And Pastor Ken Klaus explains why he begins every sermon with the same three words: “Christ is risen!”

Years ago, the TV program “You Are There” made history come alive through reenactments and all the tools of modern media. But there’s one story they never covered. Pastor Ken Klaus takes us there, to the crucifixion of Jesus. And Dr. Dale Meyer explains how to keep Holy Week holy.

Dr. Dale Meyer says the realities of life in a broken world make us long for refuge, a safe place. We find that safe place in the promises of God. And Pastor Ken Klaus compares mastering fate with faith in the Master.

Today, it is fashionable to think of Jesus as being a rather dim bulb who never judges anyone but always accepts sinners just the way they are. If you look at Jesus and see Him as that kind of Savior, your belief is contrary to Scripture’s facts.

The most fearful darkness of all is when it dawns on us God will judge us and can punish us for our sins. When God surrounds us with fear of judgement and punishment, God is showing us that He is our only way out.

This week on The Lutheran Hour, Pastor Ken Klaus tells a story of courage, selflessness, and sacrifice set in a World War II prison camp. And Dr. Dale Meyer explains why the season of Lent wreaks havoc on a sinner’s self-esteem.

Every day, we hear and see things that encourage our sinful inclinations. All that we try to keep hidden will eventually be revealed. Dr. Dale Meyer tells how God’s forgiving love for us in Christ enables fundamentally flawed sinners to meet God with pure hearts.

Ever felt let down because someone wasn’t what you expected? Jesus’ words and actions confused His followers and angered His enemies. It’s still true today. Jesus is not what people expect—but He is the Savior we truly need.

In the cold light of distant stars, centuries of light years away, we might feel small—but not insignificant, not forgotten. This week on The Lutheran Hour, Dr. Dale Meyer says the God Who created the stars also made us and, for our sake, carried a cross.

As respect for leaders and institutions erodes, who speaks anymore with authority? This week on The Lutheran Hour, Pastor Ken Klaus asks, “To whom are you listening?” And Dr. Dale Meyer relates insights he’s gained from memorising and reciting the Gospel according to St. Mark.

Not knowing the path but sure of the destination—that’s what it means to follow Jesus. This week on The Lutheran Hour, Dr. Dale Meyer and Pastor Ken Klaus discuss Jesus’ call to deeper faith, and how God meets us through His Word, the Bible.

God knows everything about you! This week on The Lutheran Hour, Pastor Ken Klaus says that truth can be a comfort—or a curse--but the God Who knows everything about you is also the God of grace Who forgives on account of Christ. And Dr. Dale Meyer answers questions about lingering guilt.

Now that we’re past the winter solstice, the days are starting to get longer again. This week on The Lutheran Hour, Dr. Dale Meyer explores themes of spiritual light and darkness. The light of Christ dispels our darkness—and that’s “breaking news” for a broken world.

The promises God makes are not like New Year’s resolutions we so often break. This week on The Lutheran Hour, Dr. Tony Cook says all who believe and trust in Jesus are children of a promise God made long ago to a man named Abraham.

This week on The Lutheran Hour, Pastor Ken Klaus says many popular movies and novels are just variations on the same basic plot. But the greatest story is the one that God reveals to us in the Bible, the story of our sin and Christ’s redemption.

Psalm 90 says, “Teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.” This week on The Lutheran Hour, Dr. Dale Meyer says life narrows down. Our limitations increase as our possibilities decrease. Life narrows down—and focuses our attention on Jesus.

With Christmas less than three weeks away, it’s prep time! Shopping, baking, decorating—and repenting? This week on The Lutheran Hour, Pastor Ken Klaus asks, “How are you preparing for the Rescuer who came to save us?”

This week on The Lutheran Hour, Dr. Dale Meyer says age and experience have weakened his feelings of faith but have also strengthened his trust in God. Pastor Ken Klaus tells why faith is needed in a world in which facts come with an expiration date

Christians reflect Christ’s love to others. Pastor Ken Klaus says Christians do good deeds to show others the good God whose love motivates them

A day of reckoning is coming. However, Dr. Dale Meyer says there’s an upside, a resurrection side for those who fear, love, and trust in God. Pastor Ken Klaus tackles difficult questions about heaven, hell, and God’s sense of proportion.

It’s been said, “Where there’s life, there’s hope.” Pastor Ken Klaus says, “Where’s there’s Jesus, there’s life and hope.” Dr. Dale Meyer tells how hope comes naturally to those who practice it every day and in every situation.

“Blessed are the pure in heart.” Jesus said that in his Sermon on the Mount. But who has a heart that’s truly pure? Dr. Dale Meyer tells how we can claim Christ’s purity as our own, by faith. Pastor Ken Klaus comments on the Beatitudes.

Dr. Gregory Seltz concludes his tenure as Lutheran Hour Speaker with a message that commemorates the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, recorded in Wittenberg, Germany. Dr. Dale Meyer and Pastor Ken Klaus discuss the Reformation’s enduring legacy.

31st of October 1517—a moment in time that echoes down through the centuries to us. Martin Luther touches off a Reformation that changed the way people thought about God, government, freedom, and their vocations.

This week Dr. Gregory Seltz takes us to Wittenberg, Germany—home of Martin Luther and the place where the Reformation began and took hold 500 years ago. Dr. Dale Meyer and Pastor Ken Klaus share insights into the man God used to rediscover the message of grace.

When someone poses for a “selfie” they usually put themselves front and centre in the foreground. That’s a pretty self-centred way to look at life. Dr. Gregory Seltz talks about the virtues of becoming selfless in a “selfie” world.

Where do we find the power to overcome worry and anxiety? Pastor Gregory Seltz says, “Be thankful; God is in the fight with you.”

Some polls are made to measure popular opinion; others are meant to manipulate it. This week on The Lutheran Hour, Pastor Ken Klaus talks about truth that transcends popular opinion. And we’ll learn about a new online forum that provides a place for dialogue about life, faith, and Jesus.

A message about impossible debt and undeserved forgiveness, this week on The Lutheran Hour.

Pastor Gregory Seltz helps us to understand what true greatness is all about. It’s not measured by success but by sacrifice; it’s not who gets the most but who gives the most. We’ll also discuss the key to building stronger relationships and learn why the Reformation took hold in Europe 500 years ago.

Pastor Gregory Seltz uses the interaction between golf pros and their caddies to illustrate the life of service Christians live for others. Peter Kirby describes the risks missionaries face in places like Mongolia and we consider how God is at work in both the Church and the civil realm.

On Resurrection Sunday there was absolutely nothing to see. The faith of today’s Christian, like the faith of every believer of the past and the future, is based on the absolute nothingness of Jesus’ empty tomb.

Pastor Ken Klaus talks about the time Jesus compared certain people to dogs at the dinner table and how those seemingly harsh words prompted a surprising display of faith.

This week on The Lutheran Hour, it’s “Archives August.” Dr. Dale Meyer reflects on the Lord’s Prayer and what it means that we can call upon God as “our Father.”

This week on The Lutheran Hour, we present a classic message by Dr. Dale Meyer. Hear how the joy and hope of Christ’s resurrection renews relationships as families worship together.

This week on The Lutheran Hour, Pastor Gregory Seltz tells how God enables us to look past our circumstances with confidence and faith.

“No pain, no gain!” Your coaches might have said that on the practice field. This week on The Lutheran Hour, Pastor Gregory Seltz says it also applies to sharing the message of God’s love with others.

If we cheer when stray dogs and cats find their “forever homes”, how much better when children are adopted into a loving family? Pastor Gregory Seltz tells how God makes spiritual orphans part of His family and gives them a new identity and purpose, through faith in Christ.

What to do when life gets out of control? Pastor Gregory Seltz says we can’t even live up to our own standards, let alone what God demands! Time, activity, and logic are not the answer. Christ is!

We no longer have debtors’ prisons, but debt can itself become a prison of sorts. Pastor Gregory Seltz tells how Christ paid the debt of sin that held us captive. Hear how His gift frees us to live and serve others.

The air is hazy and smells of smoke. The night sky glows red. Pastor Ken Klaus says a devouring wildfire is much like the destructive ideas that have spread across our culture. He tells how God’s Word provides a spiritual “fireguard” for our faith.

This week on The Lutheran Hour, Pastor Gregory Seltz says we can be thankful God deals with us according to His grace, rather than our obedience.

Where is God when life turns upside down? Pastor Gregory Seltz talks about what we don’t know and what we do know about God’s presence and plans.

Have you become spiritually numb? Does God seem somehow more distant? Pastor Gregory Seltz tells how God’s surprising shout of grace revives us to an abundant life that overflows to bless others.

When all things sacred are being demolished or profaned, where will you stand? Pastor Ken Klaus tells the stories of people who, with God’s help, did the best of things in the worst of times.

Pastor Gregory Seltz says a life lived apart from God is the worst kind of separation. But God has sent us a Helper Who connects us by faith to our Saviour and is our source of real power for life.

Being saved by Jesus Christ is not religion, it is reliance—reliance upon God’s grace, God’s doing, God’s amazing love for you—and help, God’s help in your helplessness.

Pastor Gregory Seltz looks at three ways we wander away from God’s abundant grace. He shows how Jesus is the Good Shepherd Who puts Himself into our story in order to bring us back once again.

The Apostle Peter spoke to a crowd of people that had seen Jesus of Nazareth perform wondrous works. They knew He died on a Roman cross at Jerusalem and three days later, His grave was empty. They had the facts; they just didn’t know what it all meant. How about you?

No matter how this weary world tries to shake our faith and joy, we have an inheritance in Christ that can never be taken away.

Jesus’ resurrection gives His followers hope and the assurance that their sins are forgiven and they will live with Him eternally, because God has acted in history to fulfil His promises.

When a great leader rides into town to make things right, things change. A humble hero rode into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, not to claim an earthly throne but to begin the journey that would lead to a cross, an empty tomb, and change our world forever.

Your past need not be your prison. Pastor Gregory Seltz tells how captive souls gain freedom through faith in Christ.

Pastor Ken Klaus says that “it is hard for someone who is suffering to understand why God would allow tragedies of life to upset their apple carts. Judging God, they mistakenly decide, intentionally or unintentionally, God is out to get them”.

Pastor Gregory Seltz tells how thirsty souls receive the living water only Christ can supply. A listener wonders if all religions are really the same.

Pastor Gregory Seltz says an inside-out world needs God’s help from the outside in. We’ll also discuss life and recovery beyond divorce and whether holding up a “John 3:16” sign is an effective way of spreading the Gospel.

Pastor Gregory Seltz says the devil is a bully and a deceiver, but Jesus is the Saviour who fights for us. The devil tries to weaken us, confuse us, and dominate us, but God’s Word strengthens us.

Even in this age of social media over-sharing, there are things about ourselves we keep hidden. God knows everything about us, including our sins and the secret guilt we feel. Pastor Ken Klaus tells how God unlocks the prison of guilt.

Pastor Gregory Seltz says we are called to love others as we have been loved by God - and that includes friends, family, acquaintances, strangers - even enemies. He’ll also discuss the right way to read the Bible and the key to understanding its message.

The answer to anxiety and bitterness in your own life isn’t to be found in having everyone else change in order to please you. The answer is for you to choose life, to bless others as you have been blessed by your Saviour, Jesus Christ.

Pastor Gregory Seltz directs our attention away from distractions, big and small, to focus on the one thing, the one Person that really matters.

What some regard as foolishness is really the sign of God’s love and faithfulness. This week Pastor Ken Klaus asks, “Where do you put your faith, in the wisdom of the world or in the cross of Christ?”

We are constantly being bombarded with conflicting messages that compete for our attention. This week Pastor Gregory Seltz says that “when it comes to the things that really matter there is no competition. God does not compete for our approval and the message of the cross is real power for life”.

St. Augustine said, “We could not even have begun to seek for God unless God had already found us.” This week on The Lutheran Hour, Pastor Gregory Seltz says, “Come and see the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world.”

Life and its troubles can trample us down and quench our spirit. Pastor Gregory Seltz talks about the Saviour who restores bruised reeds and reignites smouldering wicks.

Pastor Gregory Selz says this is the right time to receive God’s gift of faith and new life.

Is what you want for Christmas what you really need? This week on The Lutheran Hour, Pastor Ken Klaus says true contentment is found in receiving the gift God gave us that first Christmas Day.

What if you stopped trying to make Christmas perfect? What if you took a deep breath and let God’s Word fill you and the love of Jesus flow through you before you began to tackle every Christmas task? Pastor Gregory Seltz talks about finding real and lasting peace.

This week on The Lutheran Hour, hear how, through faith in Christ, all of life becomes an adventure full of promise and hope, whether we see it or not.

We all feel a tension between the way life is and the way it’s supposed to be. Pastor Gregory Seltz says Christmas points to a new day of restoration that is and will be.

Is a perfect Christmas possible? This week on The Lutheran Hour, Pastor Ken Klaus says even the first Christmas was far from perfect, but then again, if everything had been just as it should be, we wouldn’t have needed a Saviour.

A story of light and darkness and rescue from above.

Where is God when hope seems hard to find? Pastor Gregory Seltz tells how God comes to us in the midst of our helplessness.

How do those who have been blessed behave? They bring God’s blessing to others.

What spiritual legacy will you leave to your family? Pastor Ken Klaus says the best bequest is a legacy of faith.

Can there be such a thing as good agony? Pastor Gregory Seltz offers a new perspective on a race worth running and a fight worth fighting.

Your life depends on air, water, food and every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.

Life’s big questions need God’s big answers. Pastor Gregory Seltz says we exercise our faith when we wrestle with God.

What we think we need vs. what we really need. Pastor Gregory Seltz talks about God’s gift of faith.

How can something be unlimited and yet have limits? This week on The Lutheran Hour, Pastor Ken Klaus explains the paradox of God’s perfect patience. We’ll also learn about international mission trips and hear how volunteers are putting their passports to good use for the sake of others.

This week on The Lutheran Hour, Dr. Gregory Seltz says the things we own are not our own—they are gifts of God, entrusted to our care. We’ll also discuss creation with Pastor Steve Misch and hear how bad news makes us thankful for good news.

Tolkien wrote, “Not all those who wander are lost.” But, sadly, some are—and it will take a Good Shepherd to find them.

This week Dr. Gregory Seltz says we get to choose how we deal with others. Will our words build them up or tear them down?

What happens when human pride pushes God out of the way?

They are not all bad, and they are not all good. Because they are like the rest of us, the Psalmist said it is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in politicians.

The story of Mary and Martha is not so much about Mary or Martha--or us. It's really about Jesus. (Luke 10:38-42)

Through His love and sacrifice, Jesus is the extreme neighbor to you and all people. (Luke 10:25-37)

In Christ, you are free from being ruled by your burdens, free to serve others for the glory of God. (Galations 6:1-18)

What is the Gospel? It's the good news of God's forgiving love for us, in Jesus Christ. (Galatians 1:11-24)

Nobody likes to have their identity stolen, and that includes the Lord who said, "You shall have no other gods before Me." (Galatians 1:5-8)

The Bread of Life, Living Water, Good Shepherd: Jesus' statements leave no doubt as to who He is, for you. (John 8:48-58)

Jesus doesn't want you to be in the dark about how much He loves you. (John 14:23-31)

Prayer begins in the heart of Jesus Christ who intercedes for you, offering prayers on your behalf to God the Father. (John 17:20-26)

God loves you. He wants to hear from you. Ask Him anything and everything. Go ahead, ask! (John 16:22-33)

Heaven will be more beautiful than we can imagine; it will rectify our problems and satisfy our most profound longings. (Revelation 21:1-7)

Jesus' miracles were signs of God breaking into a sinful world, but the religious leaders saw it as a threat to their kingdoms. (John 10:22-30)

Jesus shows up and shows us that God is close and God cares. (John 21:1-14)

By faith in Jesus, you are blessed-even as your struggles continue. (John 20:19-31)

Pastor Ken Klaus asked several non-believing friends to help him write his Easter sermon. Hear what they said. (Luke 24:5-6)

Christianity is about putting to work what God has already given us, in Christ. (Philippians 2:5-11)

God calls us to be the right people in the wrong place, for the sake of others. (Philippians 3:8-14)

Through forgiveness, God gives us another way to deal with people who have hurt us. (2 Corinthians 5:17-20)

(Matthew 9:9)

(Philippians 3:17-4:1)

Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. Everyone? Yes! (Romans 10:11-13 )

Life is not a do-it-yourself project. To live life to its fullest, we need Jesus. (Luke 9:28-36)

God wants us to love Him in response to His love for us. (Luke 4:42b-43)

Jesus brings the jarring message that real freedom can only be received from Him and real freedom is following Him in all things. (Luke 4:16-21)

Jesus turns water into wine and challenges our notions of what God should or shouldn't do. (John 2:1-11)

Life is not up for grabs or out of control. Find real life in the context of Christ's cross and resurrection. (Ephesians 1:3-14)

Jesus invites you to leave your burden of regret at the foot of His cross. (1Timothy 1:16)

From the manger to the cross to resurrection life, God is in the giving business for all of us to receive and believe. (Luke 2:8-12)

God's message is simple and straightforward: Jesus is near-put your trust in Him! (Philippians 4:4-7)

The voice of John the Baptist calls us to repent and trust in the Savior Who walked in our shoes. (Luke 3:1-20)

Advent looks forward to Christmas and that final day when Christ will return. Are you ready? (Luke 21:34-36)

Heart-songs of praise are sung by those who realize the Lord loves the unlovable and saves those who thought they were beyond saving. (Ephesians 5:18b-21)

Our most advanced technology soon becomes worthless and obsolete, but God has a life for you in Jesus that lasts forever. (Mark 13:1-13)

If you think Jesus is just one of those very good and capable people who show us a better way to treat others, you haven't really captured who Jesus is. (Hebrews 9:24-28)

Don't just look up, down, or around-look to Jesus Christ for life and salvation. (Isaiah 51:4-6)

People have risked and even sacrificed their lives so that we could come to know the joy of God's forgiving love for us in Jesus. (Romans 1:16-17)

Faith in Jesus means you can live knowing that Someone "up there" really, really loves you (Mark 10:23-31)

Is there room in your life for that which is truly meaningful, important, and precious? (Mark 10:17-22)

Who's fighting for you? Who are you fighting for? (Hebrews 2:14-18)

When our sins and guilt stick to us like glue, Jesus makes us unstuck. (John 8:34-36)

What role do traditions play in our relationships to God and each other? (Mark 7:1-13)

God has something more in store for all who put their faith in Him. (Isaiah 50:4-10)

God opens hearts to new life and new opportunities, through faith in Christ. (Mark 7:31-37)

God's saving truth reaches out to a world steeped in lies. (1 John 1:1-3)

"If God be for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31)

Pontius Pilate asks the question each of us must answer: "What shall I do with Jesus?" (Matthew 27:22)

Everyone seems to have an opinion about Jesus; however, faith is what counts. (Matthew 22:41-43)

Flawed human reason has lost sight of God's divine Truth. (John 18:38)

God's love and forgiveness is to be welcomed, savored, enjoyed, and relished. Drink deeply of His grace! (2 Peter 2:9-10)

Someone from the inside has to come outside and welcome us home. (Ephesians 2:13-21)

In Christ, we find rescue, forgiveness, and new life. Outside of Christ, all is still broken, dying, or dead. (Ephesians 1:3-14)

The recipe for a successful life calls for more of Jesus and less of ourselves. (2 Corinthians 12:1-10)

We aren't perfect and we can't change, but we can receive the benefits of Christ's perfection and sacrifice. (Matthew 5:43-48)

When the waves begin to rock your boat, is Christ in the boat with you? (Mark 4:35-41)

Faith is God's work, not ours. (Mark 4)

Do you see a 'Road Construction Ahead' sign? Did God put it there? (2 Corinthians 4:13-5:1)

God shows grace to sinners but His patience has its limits. (2 Peter 3:9-10)

Pentecost is a day to celebrate God's gift of the Holy Spirit as Counselor and Comforter, sent by Jesus to bless you! (John 15:26-27, 16:14-15)

Jesus prays for us because He knows we are vulnerable and need protection from a world that seeks to steal us away from God. (John 17:11-19)

God's love excludes no one. (Acts 10:34-38)

A life that is meaningful is one that is connected to Jesus. (John 15:1-8)

Tolerance and open-mindedness are values much touted, but truth is even better. (Acts 4:12)

Our risen Savior enables us to hold on when troubled times tempt us to bail out. (Luke 24:36-49)

Jesus shows up in your life today with His gifts of forgiveness and new life. (John 20:19-38)

Your future is not a mystery. Our risen Savior is one step ahead and He leads you to eternal life. (Mark 16:1-8)

Jesus really did die and three days later He really did conquer death through His resurrection. (John 19:17-18)

In the end, forgiven sinners will not regret having followed Jesus. (Matthew 16:21-26)

Jesus offers reconciliation and restoration to those overcome by trouble and regret. (John 16:33)

When sinful pride lays us low, God's grace in Christ lifts us up again. (Psalm 103:8-12)

When Christ's story becomes yours by faith, life changes. (2 Corinthians 7:10)

Through Christ's forgiveness, regrets give way to restoration. (Luke 15)

Jesus is God's love in action for you. Listen to Him! (Mark 9)

Christ empowers His followers to live lives that encourage, affirm, and serve others. (1 Corinthians 9:18-23)

Jesus' enemies considered Him too dangerous to let live, but we have wrapped the Savior in a cloak of dullness. (Mark 1:21-28)

God's truth, as revealed in the Bible, remains true regardless of whether anyone believes it or not. (Isaiah 5:20-21)

Jesus is the antidote for our cynicism and doubt. (John 1:43-51)

God qualifies us for eternal life through our baptism into Christ's death and resurrection. (Romans 6:1-11)

Jesus teaches us to be patient and wait with hope in God's promises. (Luke 2:40-52)

Unknown monsters lurk in the shadows of the new year but Christ will carry us through. (Romans 8:37-39)

God's grace comes as a surprise and blessing to those who deserve none of it. (Luke 1:26-38)

God's grace restores those broken by sin and grief. (Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11)

Jesus exchanges our weakness for His strength. (Mark 1:1-8)

Christians serve God and their neighbors as they watch and wait for Christ's return. (Mark 13:33)

Thanksgiving is not just a made-up holiday; it's an attitude that is the key to life. (Luke 17:11-19)

God's SOS brings real lasting hope and rescue, an SOS that shows us our Savior. (1 Thessalonians 5:9-11)

Christ's work on the cross shows that God is really on our side and wants what is eternally best for us. (1Thessalonians 4:13-18)

During hard times, God is still with you and at work for you. (Matthew 5:1-12)

The Bible's message is simple and straightforward: the wages of sin is death but the free gift of God is eternal life in Jesus Christ, our Lord. (Romans 3:22-25)

Jesus calls and enables us to be peacemakers who share His gifts with others in a broken world. (Philippians 4:4-13)

The ruins of ancient Pompeii show how life can change in an instant. (Footsteps of St. Paul, part 5) (Revelation 7:9-12 )

St. Paul urges us to get down to brass tacks, face faith facts, and trust in the Good News of God's grace in Jesus. (Footsteps of St. Paul, part 4) (Ephesians 2:8-10)

Jesus is Wisdom personified. He redeems us from sin and the world's futility. (Footsteps of St. Paul, part 3) (Acts 17)

God used the Roman legal system to bring the Apostle Paul and the Gospel message to Rome. (Footsteps of St. Paul, part 2) (Acts 28:11-16, 28-31)

The journeys of St. Paul teach us how God's message of grace has been translated so that all might believe. (Footsteps of St. Paul, part 1) (Acts 2:1-39)

Jesus bore the weight of the cross and all of our sin. How big is the cross God calls you to carry? (Matthew 16:24-26)

Life seldom goes as planned. However, by God's grace things can turn out better than we deserve. (Matthew 16:21-23)

Many regard Jesus as an urban legend, a cultural myth, or just another teacher. Jesus won't let you have this opinion of Him. (Matthew 16:13-20)

Jesus is the Savior who goes where no one else could go in order to rescue, heal, and save us. (Matthew 15:21-28)

The Savior who walked on water still comes to us in our time of need. (Matthew 14:22-30)

We're spiritually hungry and yet we often try to fill ourselves up with everything but God. Faith in Jesus is food for souls that hunger. (Matthew 14:13-21)

Nothing in all of creation can separate you from the love of God which is yours in Jesus Christ. (Romans 8:38-39)

In Christ, we wait in hope and confidence that our struggles have purpose for our life now and in the world to come. (Romans 8:18-27)

There are many destructive voices that call to us. Jesus has another word, a clear voice of life and salvation. (Romans 8:12-17)

Real rest is a gift from a gracious God Who draws us to Himself and fills the emptiness in our souls. (Matthew 11:25-30)

Jesus will not let Himself be remade in our image or His mission reshaped into what we think it should be. (Matthew 10:34-42)

God's forgiving love for us in Christ is a dream come true that dispels the nightmare of sin and death. (Romans 6:12-23)

Jesus has been given all authority in heaven and on earth. We live in the certainty of His grace and the power of His Name. (Matthew 28:18-20)

The Holy Spirit convinces us that we need the help only God can provide. (John 16:1-15)

The key to winning the spiritual battle: God fights for us. Christ won the victory and leads us through each step of life. (1 Peter 5:6-11)

As we remember those who died to preserve our freedom, we remember the Savior who died and rose to save us from eternal death. (Psalms 25:7)

God's presence in Christ plus God's promises through Christ equals God's peace with Christ, forever. (John 14:1-14)

God calls us to be good-doers, rather than do-gooders. (1 Peter 2:19-25)

When God makes a way possible where there is no way, you can trust Him that you will finish the journey well. (1 Peter 1:17-25)

Why didn't Jesus' enemies produce a corpse and nip this new faith in the bud? (John 20:25)

With eyes focused on the risen Christ, we can take whatever the world dishes out, overcome it and give thanks through it all. (Colossians 3:1-4)

More than a hero, Jesus is the only Savior of sinners. (Philippians 2:5-11)

When our lives were on the line, Jesus dug deep to defeat sin and death. (John 11:1-45)

Pastor Ken Klaus says God is not out to get you. (John 9:1-41)

A surprise encounter with a stranger at a well brings about a surprising blessing. (John 4:5-42)

Spiritual rebirth is not a work for us to do but a gift to receive. (John 3:1-17)

Satan tempts us to adopt his flawed idea of God's design for our lives. (Matthew 4:1-11)

The story of Jesus' death and resurrection is not an ancient urban legend. (2 Peter 1:16-21)

Loneliness is a wall we build, a moat others dig around us. (Matthew 28:20)

Breathe in God's life-giving Word today and choose life, choose good. (Deuteronomy 30:15-20)

No matter what, you're still in the game and have a purpose in God's Kingdom. (Matthew 5:14-20)

Jesus understands your pain and has a heart of mercy for your hurt. (Hebrews 2:14-15)

Jesus transcends the labels and limits that people try to put on Him. (Luke 4:24)

Jesus is the sacrificial Lamb of God Who brings hope and new life to all, just in time. (John 1:29-42)

God really does keep score, but in Christ He counts you among the righteous. (Romans 6:1-11)

The Lord's Prayer ends with a doxology of praise and a challenge for all who pray it. (Psalm 150)

Christ's forgiveness enables us to start the new year with gratitude instead of regret. (1 John 1:9)

(Ephesians 6:10-17)

Forgiveness is God's gift that keeps on giving when our giving gives out. (Matthew 18:21-35)

We can pray to God for daily bread because He's already given us Jesus, the Bread of Life. (Matthew 6:31-34)

God is at work in the world today and provides a way for His will to transform your life. (Revelation 22:1-5)

Give thanks to God because it's the right thing to do and because others need to hear it, too. (Luke 17:15-16)

Believers are blessed with royal power, protection, and purpose because they bear the name of the King of kings and Lord of lords. (John 17:6-12)

We can call God our Father only because Jesus has made that relationship possible. (Matthew 7:7-12)

Jesus invites us to pray, His way, and in His Name. (Luke 11:1-2)

Truth is not putty. Truth is a Person. (John 14:6)

God's Word delivers absolute grace to a world of itching ears and empty promises. (2 Timothy 3:15-4:5)

Jesus invites you to embark on a voyage of faith, trusting in His promises. (Luke 17:11-19)

God isn't ignoring you. You can wait for Him in faith. (Habakkuk 2:1-4)

(Ephesians 4:10-13)

God invites us to pray to Him at all times because He hears us and His promises are sure. (1 Timothy 2:1-15)

Losers and weepers rejoice when Jesus is the Seeker who finds the lost. (Luke 15:1-10)

God calls you to come home to a life He has already made possible for you, a life you can live abundantly by His grace. (Deuteronomy 30:15-20)

God frees us from selfishness and challenges us to lead a new way of life, in His name. (Hebrews 13:1-11)

To those who wish to follow Him, Jesus asks, 'Are you sure?'(Luke 13:22-24)

Run the race by grace with victory assured, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the Pioneer and Perfecter of our faith. (Hebrews 12:1-3)

God cares. Trust God to always work for your good, even when others do not.

Distractions can be deadly, especially if they take our attention away from our relationship with God.