There’s something about the birth of a baby that is so exciting. Understatement of the year, I know, but hear me out.

Have you ever prayed against yourself? Think about that one for a moment. My guess is that you’re struggling to find an example. The truth is, you have.

Meditation is often associated with Eastern religions. But biblical meditation or Meditatio as Luther explains is much different.

As Christians, we thank God for the gift to his church of men like Martin Luther. God used Luther to accomplish many things, most notably a rediscovery of the truth that we are declared “not guilty” because the righteousness of Christ has been given to us through faith. Luther also prompted a return to studying the Scriptures.

I think generally, we’re a thankful people here at Eastside. We spent the first part of our service speaking words of thanksgiving as we’ve quoted various different words of Scripture. We’ve sung hymns of thanksgiving. In a few minutes, we’ll approach the throne of God’s grace and thank him again for specific blessings. I’ve even heard people who are so thankful, that they say, “Thanks for nothing!” Can you believe that?