A message from Pastor Berndt
Jesus said “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven.” (Luke 10)
In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. There is a war going on. It is not fought with conventional weapons. It is not a battle over land or property. It is a spiritual war – an angelic war. War arose in heaven, Michael and his angels fighting against the dragon. And the dragon and his angels fought back, but he was defeated, and there was no longer any place for them in heaven. (Revelation 12)
Satan is at war against the Lord's Church. Satan brings his lies and accusations against you. Satan lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies. (John 8) This war’s weapon is words. Lies versus the truth. Satan's deception versus the Word of God.
The Lord sends His Holy Angels to guard and protect you with God's Word. He will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. (Psalm 91) The word Angel means "messenger". What message do the angels bring? Jesus. The Word became flesh and dwelt among us. (John 1)
The angel Gabriel announced Jesus’ conception to Mary. The angel announced the Good News of Christ’s birth to lowly shepherds and was joined by the heavenly host singing "Gloria in Excelsis." “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” The angels were there on Easter morning announcing Christ’s victory over the grave. Christ has risen. He has risen indeed! Two men stood by them in dazzling apparel...Said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you. (Luke 24) Jesus’ Words – God's promises fulfilled in Christ for you the sinner – fight against all of Satan’s twisted lies.
They have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony. (Revelation 12)
Do not be afraid. God's Word has been signed in the Blood of the Lamb for your salvation. God's messengers come to deliver Good News of great joy that is for you. The Savior Christ has come. God's messengers fight against every evil scheme of the devil. God watches over His little ones – guarding and protecting you in the faith – by the Word of God.
You are called to hear God's life-saving message in the Gospel. Jesus has bled, Jesus has died, and Jesus has risen for you. This brings peace that reigns eternal. (Angels) Are they not all ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation? (Hebrews 1) Rejoice! You are called to hear and believe in Jesus. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.
521 Christ, the Lord of Hosts, Unshaken LSB 521:6
Jesus, send Your angel legions When the foe would us enslave.
Hold us fast when sin assaults us; Come, then, Lord, Your people save.
Overthrow at last the dragon; Send him to his fiery grave.