Thy Strong Word from KFUO Radio

The Rev. Dr. Curtis Deterding, pastor of Zion Lutheran Church in Fort Myers, FL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study the hymn, “O Little Town of Bethlehem.”It’s time to head into Bethlehem with hymn LSB 361: “O Little Town of Bethlehem.” Written by an Episcopal Priest inspired by his own visit to Bethlehem in 1865, this contemplative and peaceful carol has become one of the most popular Christmas hymns of our time. Come learn how this Christmas hymn urges us to reflect on the birth of Jesus. Learn more: hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/361Celebrate the birth of our Savior with Thy Strong Word’s Countdown to Christmas, a special series where we explore 10 of the most beloved Christmas hymns found in the Lutheran Service Book. Learn the history and meaning of these beautiful carols and how they reflect the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Each weekday we dive into every stanza of these classic hymns and discover the rich theology and joy it expresses. Don’t miss this opportunity to prepare your hearts to receive Christ anew and rejoice with Thy Strong Word: Countdown to Christmas.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.Lutheran Service Book 3611 O little town of Bethlehem,How still we see thee lie!Above thy deep and dreamless sleepThe silent stars go by;Yet in thy dark streets shinethThe everlasting light.The hopes and fears of all the yearsAre met in thee tonight.2 For Christ is born of Mary,And gathered all aboveWhile mortals sleep, the angels keepTheir watch of wond'ring love.O morning stars, togetherProclaim the holy birth,And praises sing to God the kingAnd peace to all the earth!3 How silently, how silentlyThe wondrous gift is giv'n!So God imparts to human heartsThe blessings of His heav'n.No ear may hear His coming;But in this world of sin,Where meek souls will receive Him, stillThe dear Christ enters in.4 O holy Child of Bethlehem,Descend to us, we pray;Cast out our sin, and enter in,Be born in us today.We hear the Christmas angelsThe great glad tidings tell;O come to us, abide with us,Our Lord Immanuel!Text InformationFirst Line: O little town of BethlehemTitle: O Little Town of BethlehemAuthor: Phillips Brooks, 1835-93Meter: 86 86 76 86Language: EnglishPublication Date: 2006Scripture: Luke 2:1-15; Luke 1:68-75; Ephesians 3:16-19; Micah 5:2Notes: Alternate tune: FOREST GREENTune InformationName: ST. LOUISComposer: Lewis H. Redner, 1831-1908Meter: 86 86 76 86Key: F MajorSource: Service Book and Hymnal, 1958, alt. (Setting)Learn more: hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/361

The Rev. John Lukomski, co-host of Wrestling with the Basics on KFUO Radio, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study the hymn “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”. Find Wrestling with the Basics at kfuo.org/WrestlingWithTheBasics.Turning now to LSB 357, we come to the ancient and beautiful Advent hymn, “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.” With lyrics tracing back in one form or another for over 1200 years, this hymn is based on the great ‘O Antiphons’ of the church which recall the Old Testament promises of the Messiah’s coming. This episode explores the history behind the hymn and reflects on its deep and contemplative meaning. Learn more: hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/357Celebrate the birth of our Savior with Thy Strong Word’s Countdown to Christmas, a special series where we explore 10 of the most beloved Christmas hymns found in the Lutheran Service Book. Learn the history and meaning of these beautiful carols and how they reflect the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Each weekday we dive into every stanza of these classic hymns and discover the rich theology and joy it expresses. Don’t miss this opportunity to prepare your hearts to receive Christ anew and rejoice with Thy Strong Word: Countdown to Christmas.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.Lutheran Service Book 3571 O come, O come, Emmanuel,And ransom captive Israel,That mourns in lonely exile hereUntil the Son of God appear.Refrain:Rejoice! Rejoice!EmmanuelShall come to thee,O Israel!2 O come, Thou Wisdom from on high,Who ord'rest all things mightily;To us the path of knowledge show,And teach us in her ways to go. [Refrain]3 O come, O come, Thou Lord of might,Who to Thy tribes on Sinai's heightIn ancient times didst give the LawIn cloud and majesty and awe. [Refrain]4 O come, Thou Branch of Jesse's tree,Free them from Satan's tyrannyThat trust Thy mighty pow'r to save,And give them vict'ry o'er the grave. [Refrain]5 O come, Thou Key of David, come,And open wide our heav'nly home;Make safe the way that leads on high,And close the path to misery. [Refrain]6 O come, Thou Dayspring from on high,And cheer us by Thy drawing nigh;Disperse the gloomy clouds of night,And death's dark shadows put to flight. [Refrain]7 O come, Desire of nations, bindIn one the hearts of all mankind;Bid Thou our sad divisions cease,And be Thyself our King of Peace. [Refrain]Text InformationFirst Line: O come, O come, Emmanuel,Title: O Come, O Come, EmmanuelTranslator: John Mason Neale, 1818-66 (alt.)Refrain First Line: Rejoice! Rejoice! EmmanuelMeter: L M and refrainLanguage: EnglishPublication Date: 2006Scripture: Isaiah 7:10-14; Isaiah 11:1-11; Matthew 1:23Source: Latin, c. 12th cent.; Psalteriolum Cantionum Catholicarum, Köln, 1710Tune InformationName: VENI EMMANUELArranger: C. Winfred Douglas, 1867-1944Meter: L M and refrainKey: e minorLearn more: hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/357

Celebrate the birth of our Savior with Thy Strong Word’s Countdown to Christmas, a special series where we explore 10 of the most beloved Christmas hymns found in the Lutheran Service Book. Learn the history and meaning of these beautiful carols and how they reflect the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Each weekday we dive into every stanza of these classic hymns and discover the rich theology and joy it expresses. Don’t miss this opportunity to prepare your hearts to receive Christ anew and rejoice with Thy Strong Word: Countdown to Christmas.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.

The Rev. Philip Hoppe, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Colby, KS, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study the hymn “The Angel Gabriel from Heaven Came.”Turn to page 356 in your hymnals because we are kicking off our countdown to Christmas with “The Angel Gabriel from Heaven Came.” Let God prepare your hearts this Advent as we explore the history behind the hymn and then, stanza-by-stanza, examine the themes and message of the lyrics against Scripture. You’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for this seasonal favorite. Learn more: hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/356.Celebrate the birth of our Savior with Thy Strong Word’s Countdown to Christmas, a special series where we explore 10 of the most beloved Christmas hymns found in the Lutheran Service Book. Learn the history and meaning of these beautiful carols and how they reflect the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Each weekday we dive into every stanza of these classic hymns and discover the rich theology and joy it expresses. Don’t miss this opportunity to prepare your hearts to receive Christ anew and rejoice with Thy Strong Word: Countdown to Christmas.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.Lutheran Service Book 3561 The angel Gabriel from heaven came,With wings as drifted snow, with eyes as flame:"All hail to thee, O lowly maiden Mary,Most highly favored lady." Gloria!2 "For know a blessed mother thou shalt be,All generations laud and honor thee;Thy son shall be Emmanuel, by seers foretold,Most highly favored lady." Gloria!3 Then gentle Mary meekly bowed her head;"To me be as it pleaseth God," she said."My soul shall laud and magnify God's holy name."Most highly favored lady, Gloria!4 Of her, Emmanuel, the Christ, was bornIn Bethlehem all on a Christmas morn,And Christian folk throughout the world will ever say:"Most highly favored lady." Gloria!Text InformationFirst Line: The angel Gabriel from heaven came,Title: The Angel Gabriel from Heaven CameParaphraser: Sabine Baring-Gould, 1834-1924Meter: 10 10 11 7 3Language: EnglishPublication Date: 2006Scripture: Luke 1:26-38; Isaiah 7:14Topic: Feasts and FestivalsSource: Basque, c. 18th cent.Tune InformationName: GABRIEL'S MESSAGEArranger: C. Edgar Pettman, 1865-1943Meter: 10 10 11 7 3Key: g minorSource: Basque, c. 18th cent.Copyright: Setting © 1955, ren. 1983 E. H. Freeman, ltd; admin Hal Leonard CorporationLearn more: hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/356

The Rev. Dr. Brian Kachelmeier, pastor of Mount Calvary Lutheran Church in San Antonio, TX, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Micah 7.In this final chapter, the prophet laments the corrupt state of society, and highlights the prevalence of deceit, oppression, and untrustworthiness among people. Amid this darkness, Micah expresses unwavering trust in God's faithfulness and mercy, encouraging hope in divine redemption. The chapter contrasts the flaws of humanity with the constancy of God's character, emphasizing His forgiveness and ability to restore. It ultimately ends on a note of assurance, expressing confidence in God's eventual vindication and His promise to shepherd His people with compassion, leading them to a place of restoration and prosperity.Micah, one of the few prophets of his time still faithful to God in Israel, rebukes the societal injustices of the Israelites and pronounces judgment on the wickedness of the religious and political leaders of the time. Notably, Micah is the prophet who foretells that the future messianic ruler will be born in Bethlehem. Jesus not only fulfilled that prophecy, but he embodies Micah's call for justice, mercy, and humility, bringing restoration and reconciliation through his life, death, and resurrection.

The Rev. Dr. Benjamin Squires, pastor of Bethel Lutheran Church in Gurnee, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Micah 6.Micah 6 captures a profound dialogue between God and humanity, as the prophet challenges the people of Israel to remember their covenant with God. The passage begins with God's plea for the people to recall His faithfulness and righteousness, contrasting it with their disobedience and lack of gratitude. YHWH emphasizes that He desires justice, kindness, and humility rather than ritualistic offerings. The chapter concludes with a reminder of God's expectations: to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with Him.Micah, one of the few prophets of his time still faithful to God in Israel, rebukes the societal injustices of the Israelites and pronounces judgment on the wickedness of the religious and political leaders of the time. Notably, Micah is the prophet who foretells that the future messianic ruler will be born in Bethlehem. Jesus not only fulfilled that prophecy, but he embodies Micah's call for justice, mercy, and humility, bringing restoration and reconciliation through his life, death, and resurrection.

The Rev. Roger Mullet, pastor of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Buffalo, WY, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Micah 5.Micah prophesies the birth of a future ruler from Bethlehem, emphasizing the humble origins of this figure who will bring peace and security to Israel. Despite Bethlehem's small size, this ruler's significance will extend far beyond, bringing a restoration of Israel's strength and prestige. This chapter unmistakably points to the birth of the Savior in Bethlehem, echoing the Gospel accounts of Jesus' birth.Micah, one of the few prophets of his time still faithful to God in Israel, rebukes the societal injustices of the Israelites and pronounces judgment on the wickedness of the religious and political leaders of the time. Notably, Micah is the prophet who foretells that the future messianic ruler will be born in Bethlehem. Jesus not only fulfilled that prophecy, but he embodies Micah's call for justice, mercy, and humility, bringing restoration and reconciliation through his life, death, and resurrection.

The Rev. Kevin Parviz, pastor of Congregation Chai v’ Shalom in St. Louis, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Micah 4.In dramatic contrast to the warnings and judgments of chapter 3, Micah foresees a day when God will establish His kingdom in Jerusalem and bring lasting peace and justice to all nations. People worldwide will seek God's teaching and walk in His ways. War will cease, and weapons will become tools. Everyone will live securely and without fear. Zion will be exalted again as a source of instruction for the peoples.Micah, one of the few prophets of his time still faithful to God in Israel, rebukes the societal injustices of the Israelites and pronounces judgment on the wickedness of the religious and political leaders of the time. Notably, Micah is the prophet who foretells that the future messianic ruler will be born in Bethlehem. Jesus not only fulfilled that prophecy, but he embodies Micah's call for justice, mercy, and humility, bringing restoration and reconciliation through his life, death, and resurrection.

The Rev. Jim Daub, pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Havelock, NC, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Micah 3.The prophet Micah condemns, in particular, the corrupt leaders of Judah and Israel for their injustice, greed, and failure to care for God's people. God declares woe upon the political and religious leaders who rule for their own gain, accept bribes, and refuse to seek justice and righteousness. Micah warns that because of their sins, Zion will be plowed as a field and Jerusalem will become a heap of ruins. Yet even in the midst of his warnings, Micah offers a message of hope for the future.Micah, one of the few prophets of his time still faithful to God in Israel, rebukes the societal injustices of the Israelites and pronounces judgment on the wickedness of the religious and political leaders of the time. Notably, Micah is the prophet who foretells that the future messianic ruler will be born in Bethlehem. Jesus not only fulfilled that prophecy, but he embodies Micah's call for justice, mercy, and humility, bringing restoration and reconciliation through his life, death, and resurrection.

The Rev. Doug Griebenaw, pastor and Mission Advocate at KFUO Radio, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Micah 2.The prophet continues his condemnation of injustice and social oppression prevalent in Israel. Through Micah, God denounces those who devise evil schemes and exploit the vulnerable, warning of the judgment that awaits them for their greed and cruelty. The chapter highlights how the powerful were confiscating land, displacing families, and disregarding God's principles of justice and compassion. Micah underscores that their actions will lead to their downfall and the loss of their ill-gotten gains.Micah, one of the few prophets of his time still faithful to God in Israel, rebukes the societal injustices of the Israelites and pronounces judgment on the wickedness of the religious and political leaders of the time. Notably, Micah is the prophet who foretells that the future messianic ruler will be born in Bethlehem. Jesus not only fulfilled that prophecy, but he embodies Micah's call for justice, mercy, and humility, bringing restoration and reconciliation through his life, death, and resurrection.