Received as Angel (Galatians 4:14)

"You did not scorn or despise me, but received me as an angel of God, as Christ Jesus" (Galatians 4:14). Luther writes in regards to the Third Commandment, "We should fear and love God so that we do not despise preaching and [God's] Word, but hold it sacred and gladly hear and learn it." The pastor comes to you as an angel of God. Angel meaning messenger. This is why we are commanded to hold the preaching of God's Word sacred. This is why we are commanded to gladly hear and learn it. Not to scorn or despise it as a drudgery. To receive it as the heavenly Bread of Life that falls from your heavenly Father's hand. God's Word gives you the Good News of the Gospel that Jesus has delivered you from your sins. There is no greater message you can receive. And your pastor is given the privilege of delivering this message to you weekly. Receive his gift and privilege. Amen.