Monthly Archives: December 2010

I went to seminary to become a pastor and theologian, but it was of all places, as a member of the Seminary Chorus where I most learned to be a theologian.  This was because Henry, or rather Pastor Gerike, had … Continue reading →

I had the privilege of meeting the author (Jaroslav Vajda) and composer (Carl Schalk) of this hymn several years ago at a hymn festival at Concordia Seminary.  I recall singing this hymn as part of the Seminary Chorus (though I do not … Continue reading →

O Emmanuel, our King and our Lord, the anointed for the nations and their Savior: Come and save us, O Lord our God. Readings:  Isaiah 7:1-8:10 / Matthew 1:18-25 “God helps those who help themselves.” It almost sounds biblical. Some people think … Continue reading →

Fortunately the answer to both these questions is the very same thing.  In fact, that is at the essence of what Lutherans believe about all matters of doctrine:  Lutherans believe what Scripture teaches; no more and no less.  Now there … Continue reading →

O King of nations, the ruler they long for, the cornerstone uniting all people: Come and save us all, whom you formed out of clay. Readings:  Zechariah 9:9-10 / 1 Peter 2:4-6 Jesus is both King and Cornerstone. As King, he governs by … Continue reading →

I have the order of service set for Christmas Eve.  Here are “videos” (though some are pictures with sound) of the hymns we will sing: O Come, All Ye Faithful Hark! The Herald Angels Sing Come, Your Hearts and Voices … Continue reading →

O Dayspring, splendor of light everlasting: Come and enlighten those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death. Readings:  Isaiah 9:1-7 / Malachi 4:2 / Revelation 22:16 Today is the shortest day of the year in the northern hemisphere. And the … Continue reading →

Dr. Nagel reads the Christmas story from Luke 2 in English and Aussie: Christmas with Dr. Norman Nagel (46:53)

O Key of David and scepter of the house of Israel, you open and no one can close, you close and no one can open: Come and rescue the prisoners who are in darkness and the shadow of death. Readings:  … Continue reading →