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The Large Catechism – part 118
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Luke 11:27–28
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
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From the Confessions: The Large Catechism, The Ten Commandments
The Fourth Commandment
Honor your father and your mother, (that your days may be long in the land which the Lord your God is giving you.)
In this manner, we would have had godly children, properly taught, reared in true blessedness, and kept at home in obedience to their parents and in their service. People would have had blessing and joy from the spectacle. However, it was not tolerated for God’s commandment to be taught with care and diligence. It was neglected and trampled underfoot so that a child could not take it to heart. Meanwhile they gaped at the plans we devised, without once giving honor to God.
Pulling It Together: How ironic that we consider the Fourth Commandment while reading today’s gospel lesson. A woman in the crowd seeks to honor the mother of Jesus, and Jesus improves upon her blessing in a way that some might think dishonors Mary. He does her no dishonor but carries the blessing to the top, to his Father in heaven, whose name is to be hallowed among us. Truly, it is those who have been taught his Word and obeyed it who will be a blessing, not only to their heavenly Father but, to their earthly parents too.
Prayer: Help me, Father, to listen to you today. Amen.
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Author
Rev. Dr. Mark E. Ryman has served as Pastor for St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Salisbury, NC, since 2021. Previously, Pastor Ryman served congregations in North Carolina and Ohio, as well as a call to specialized ministry with Sola Publishing.
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