Thy Strong Word from KFUO Radio

In the concluding verses of Luke chapter 2, we find the account of twelve-year-old Jesus during the Feast of Passover in Jerusalem. After the festival and heading home, Mary and Joseph realize Jesus is missing and, after three days of searching, find Him in the temple, astonishing the teachers with His wisdom. When His parents express their concern, Jesus responds, "Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?" highlighting His awareness of His divine sonship and mission. Though His parents don't fully understand, Mary treasures these moments. Jesus then returns to Nazareth, growing in wisdom and favor with God and man. The Rev. Jacob Hercamp, pastor of Christ Lutheran Church in Noblesville, IN, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 2:41-52. The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ concern for the poor, outcasts, and social justice, this Gospel narrates parables and miracles that underscore the theme of God’s salvation for all people. Luke’s account is unique in its inclusion of the birth of John the Baptist, the parable of the Good Samaritan, and the story of the Prodigal Son, culminating in a vivid portrayal of Jesus’ death and resurrection, affirming the universal offer of redemption. This Gospel serves as an invitation to understand the depth of God’s love and the breadth of His grace extended to humanity through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

In these verses, we follow the Holy Family as they fulfill the Law of Moses by presenting the infant Jesus at the temple in Jerusalem. There, they encounter Simeon, a righteous and devout man who has been promised by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before seeing the Messiah. Upon seeing Jesus, Simeon takes Him in his arms and praises God, declaring Jesus as the light for revelation to the Gentiles and the glory of Israel. Anna, a prophetess, also recognizes Jesus and speaks about Him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem. These encounters highlight the fulfillment of God's promises and the recognition of Jesus as the long-awaited Savior. The Rev. Elden Kohn, pastor of Zion Lutheran Church in Macon, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 2:22-40. The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ concern for the poor, outcasts, and social justice, this Gospel narrates parables and miracles that underscore the theme of God’s salvation for all people. Luke’s account is unique in its inclusion of the birth of John the Baptist, the parable of the Good Samaritan, and the story of the Prodigal Son, culminating in a vivid portrayal of Jesus’ death and resurrection, affirming the universal offer of redemption. This Gospel serves as an invitation to understand the depth of God’s love and the breadth of His grace extended to humanity through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

Through Luke’s testimony, we witness the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ. Under Caesar Augustus' decree, Joseph and Mary journey to Bethlehem, where Jesus is born in a humble stable and laid in a manger. Nearby shepherds, startled by an angelic proclamation, receive the "good news of great joy" that the Savior has been born. They find the Holy Family and share the angel’s message, leaving everyone in amazement. Mary treasures these moments, while the shepherds glorify God. The Rev. David Boisclair, pastor of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Overland, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 2:1-12. The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ concern for the poor, outcasts, and social justice, this Gospel narrates parables and miracles that underscore the theme of God’s salvation for all people. Luke’s account is unique in its inclusion of the birth of John the Baptist, the parable of the Good Samaritan, and the story of the Prodigal Son, culminating in a vivid portrayal of Jesus’ death and resurrection, affirming the universal offer of redemption. This Gospel serves as an invitation to understand the depth of God’s love and the breadth of His grace extended to humanity through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

The arrival of Elizabeth's long-awaited son brings great joy and amazement to her neighbors and relatives, prompting them to praise God for His mercy. As Zechariah regains his speech after naming his son John, he is filled with the Holy Spirit and bursts forth in prophetic praise. His song, known as the Benedictus, proclaims God's faithfulness and the dawning of redemption for His people. Zechariah foretells John's role as the forerunner of the Messiah, who will guide our feet into the way of peace. The Rev. Robert Hiller, pastor at Community Lutheran Church in Escondido, CA, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 1:58-80. The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ concern for the poor, outcasts, and social justice, this Gospel narrates parables and miracles that underscore the theme of God’s salvation for all people. Luke’s account is unique in its inclusion of the birth of John the Baptist, the parable of the Good Samaritan, and the story of the Prodigal Son, culminating in a vivid portrayal of Jesus’ death and resurrection, affirming the universal offer of redemption. This Gospel serves as an invitation to understand the depth of God’s love and the breadth of His grace extended to humanity through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

Luke reports how Mary, newly aware of her divine pregnancy, hastens to the hill country to visit her cousin Elizabeth, herself miraculously expecting a child. As the two women meet, Elizabeth's unborn baby leaps with joy, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, proclaims blessings over Mary. In response, Mary exalts the Lord with her Magnificat, a song of praise that magnifies God's mercy, strength, and faithfulness. The Rev. Thomas Eckstein, pastor of Concordia Lutheran Church in Jamestown, ND, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 1:39-56. The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ concern for the poor, outcasts, and social justice, this Gospel narrates parables and miracles that underscore the theme of God’s salvation for all people. Luke’s account is unique in its inclusion of the birth of John the Baptist, the parable of the Good Samaritan, and the story of the Prodigal Son, culminating in a vivid portrayal of Jesus’ death and resurrection, affirming the universal offer of redemption. This Gospel serves as an invitation to understand the depth of God’s love and the breadth of His grace extended to humanity through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

Continuing in Luke’s Gospel, Gabriel appears to Mary, who is troubled at his appearance. But Gabriel brings a message of favor, grace and hope, for from Mary, through the power of the Holy Spirit, would be born the Savior of the world. Mary responds as a humble servant of Christ, willingly accepting the Lord’s will for her. Rev. David Boisclair, pastor of Faith and Bethesda and Our Redeemer in North St. Louis County, MO, joins guest host Rev. John Shank to study Luke 1:26-38.The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ concern for the poor, outcasts, and social justice, this Gospel narrates parables and miracles that underscore the theme of God’s salvation for all people. Luke’s account is unique in its inclusion of the birth of John the Baptist, the parable of the Good Samaritan, and the story of the Prodigal Son, culminating in a vivid portrayal of Jesus’ death and resurrection, affirming the universal offer of redemption. This Gospel serves as an invitation to understand the depth of God’s love and the breadth of His grace extended to humanity through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

In the opening verses of Luke's Gospel, the curtain rises on a tale of an elderly priest, a barren wife, and a promise that defies nature. As the faithful Zechariah performs his sacred duties, an angelic messenger appears, shattering the silence with a prophecy of joy and fulfillment that will pave the way for the Messiah. This is a story of unexpected blessings and divine orchestration, where the ordinary is touched by the extraordinary, leading to the birth of John the Baptist, the forerunner of our Savior.The Rev. Joshua Heimbuck, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Ashland, OR, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Luke 1:1-25.The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ concern for the poor, outcasts, and social justice, this Gospel narrates parables and miracles that underscore the theme of God’s salvation for all people. Luke’s account is unique in its inclusion of the birth of John the Baptist, the parable of the Good Samaritan, and the story of the Prodigal Son, culminating in a vivid portrayal of Jesus’ death and resurrection, affirming the universal offer of redemption. This Gospel serves as an invitation to understand the depth of God’s love and the breadth of His grace extended to humanity through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

The Gospel of Luke, filled with rich narratives and detailed accounts, offers an inspired and historical perspective on the life and teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing Jesus’ concern for the poor, outcasts, and social justice, this Gospel narrates parables and miracles that underscore the theme of God’s salvation for all people. Luke’s account is unique in its inclusion of the birth of John the Baptist, the parable of the Good Samaritan, and the story of the Prodigal Son, culminating in a vivid portrayal of Jesus’ death and resurrection, affirming the universal offer of redemption. This Gospel serves as an invitation to understand the depth of God’s love and the breadth of His grace extended to humanity through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God’s Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations.Thy Strong Word is graciously underwritten by the Lutheran Heritage Foundation. Through the mission gifts of people like you, LHF translates, publishes, distributes and introduces books that are Bible-based, Christ-centered and Reformation-driven. Learn more at lhfmissions.org.

Proverbs 31, attributed to King Lemuel, provides a two-part collection of wisdom. The first part contains Lemuel's mother's advice to him on leadership and avoiding vices. The second part describes the qualities of a virtuous woman, emphasizing her industriousness, wisdom, and kindness. Often perceived as an ideal that may seem burdensome, this chapter, when unpacked, reveals a blessing for believers, highlighting the virtues of diligence, integrity, and fear of the Lord. It serves as an inspiration and guide to righteous living and mutual respect within relationships.The Rev. Matthew Tassey, pastor of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Shawnee, OK, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Proverbs 31.Step into the spiritually rich landscape of the Book of Proverbs, a text divinely inspired and attributed to Solomon, the sage king endowed by God with unsurpassed wisdom. This ancient scripture begins with heartfelt lessons from a father to a son, laying a foundation of moral and ethical guidance before unfolding into a collection of timeless proverbs. It uniquely personifies wisdom and folly as two paths that stand before humanity, offering a choice between a life filled with virtue, fear of the Lord, and understanding, and one marred by shortsighted pleasures and foolishness. Proverbs serves as a compass for those seeking to walk in righteousness, offering insights that resonate deeply with the human experience, guiding us toward a life of purpose and discernment according to God’s will.

Proverbs 30 is attributed to Agur son of Jakeh and consists of his observations and reflections on wisdom, humility, and the natural world. Agur begins with an acknowledgment of his own limitations and a reverence for God's wisdom. The chapter includes a series of numerical proverbs, which list various things that are remarkable or puzzling, such as things that are never satisfied and things that are too wonderful to understand. Agur emphasizes the importance of humility, contentment, and reverence for God.The Rev. Ryan Kleimola, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Toledo, OH, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Proverbs 30:1-33.Step into the spiritually rich landscape of the Book of Proverbs, a text divinely inspired and attributed to Solomon, the sage king endowed by God with unsurpassed wisdom. This ancient scripture begins with heartfelt lessons from a father to a son, laying a foundation of moral and ethical guidance before unfolding into a collection of timeless proverbs. It uniquely personifies wisdom and folly as two paths that stand before humanity, offering a choice between a life filled with virtue, fear of the Lord, and understanding, and one marred by shortsighted pleasures and foolishness. Proverbs serves as a compass for those seeking to walk in righteousness, offering insights that resonate deeply with the human experience, guiding us toward a life of purpose and discernment according to God’s will.