Today’s Verse:
Jeremiah 23:5 ESV

Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, and he shall reign as king and deal wisely, and shall execute justice and righteousness in the land.

On this downright frigid Inauguration Day, as we witness the peaceful transition of power, we reflect on the words of the prophet Jeremiah:

“Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, and he shall reign as king and deal wisely, and shall execute justice and righteousness in the land.” — Jeremiah 23:5

This prophecy points to Jesus Christ, the promised Messiah, who embodies perfect justice and righteousness. While earthly leaders strive to govern wisely, they are human and fallible. In contrast, Christ's reign is marked by divine wisdom and unwavering righteousness. As we observe today's ceremonies, let us remember that true and ultimate justice is found in Christ alone. May we place our hope and trust not solely in human institutions, but in Jesus, our Righteous Savior.

Prayers

A Prayer for Today:

Heavenly Father, we thank You for sending Jesus, the Righteous Branch from David's line. As our nation inaugurates President Donald Trump today, grant our leaders wisdom and a heart for justice. Help us to remember that while human leaders come and go, Your sovereignty remains forever. Guide us to seek Your righteousness in all we do. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Apostles’ Creed:

I believe in God, the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth.

And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended into hell. The third day He rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty. From thence He will come to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Christian Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

The Lord’s Prayer:

Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name, Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven; give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.

Luther’s Morning Prayer:

I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands, I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen.

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A Song for Today