The Small Catechism – part 168
Scripture Text: Revelation 4:11
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From the Word: You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and they were created and exist through your will. (Revelation 4:11)
From the Confessions: The Small Catechism
The Third Petition
Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
What does this mean?
The good and gracious will of God is done indeed without our prayer, but we pray in this petition that it will also be done among us.
How is this done?
God’s will is done when he hinders and destroys every evil design and purpose of the devil, the world, and our sinful nature that would keep us from hallowing his name and prevent the coming of his kingdom. And God’s will is done when he strengthens us and keeps us steadfast in his Word and in faith to the end of our earthly lives. This is his good and gracious will.
Pulling It Together: We were created as temporal beings; we exist within time. Therefore, we must learn patience. Patience is a virtue because it is so necessary and because it is God’s will. By his creation of all time-based things, he also dictates that we must be patiently faithful. In our waiting, especially in this season of Advent, we are aware of God’s seeming absence, yet we also become keenly aware of his promise. He is returning (John 14:3; Rev 3:11; 22:7, 12). In the interval of patient expectation, we find that our creator is worthy of all glory and honor and power. His seeming delay brings forth the fruit of patience in those who faithfully watch, for in waiting they learn the blessed will of the Father, and are at peace.
Prayer: Come quickly, Lord Jesus. Amen.
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The Basics of the Christian Faith is an edition of the catechism that is aimed at seekers, visitors, and those that may not come from a Lutheran background. It is recommended for use in outreach, as a visitor welcome gift, or in new member packets.
Author
Rev. Mark E. Ryman serves as Pastor for St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Salisbury, NC. Previously, Pastor Ryman has served other congregations in North Carolina and Ohio, as well as a call to specialized ministry with Sola Publishing.
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