Mon. Jan 20, 2014

DEVOTION:  "How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God? The Story pg. 31
 
Potiphar's wife lusted after Joseph and wanted to have him.  Joseph, on the other hand, resisted the temptation by thinking about what God would think of it.  Yet, even though he resisted he still suffered the consequences of the sin, even though he didn't do it. 
 
Sometimes those are the breaks.  We live in a sinful world, and we ourselves are sinful, so even though we don't always commit a sin directly we still suffer the consequences of the sin indirectly.  Which is ok, because we are really just making up for all the times we sin and don't suffer any consequences.
 
Don't think that God was unfair in what he allowed Joseph to suffer.  And don't think he is ever unfair in what he allows you to suffer.  He is working out your salvation even through these very hard times. 
 
Joseph knew full well that God was working through even the most dire of circumstances to bring about His will and His grace to the lives of his family and millions of others. 
 
This passage also gives us a very good way to keep ourselves from temptation.  We should have it posted somewhere in our house, or written on our hand or tattooed somewhere where we can see it all the time.  Every time we are tempted to sin we should ask this question!  "How can I do such a thing and sin against God?"  Say this out loud next time you are tempted to eat that third piece of cake before bed, when you are tempted to click on that link on your computer that will lead you where you shouldn't go, the next time you think you don't need church or worship. Then thank God for His eternal and complete grace when you do sin. 
 
Let us pray:  Lord God, help us to resist temptation just so that we can love and honor you, and also help us to realize that when we face hard times  you are teaching us and growing us in Your grace.  Amen.
 

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THURSDAY'S QUIZ: On what  mountain region did Abraham almost sacrifice Isaac? Moriah  (Someone besides Dianne really needs to step up and answer these questions!!)   haha
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MONDAY'S QUIZ: What did Joseph's brothers do to lie to their father and make him think Joseph was dead?
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CALENDAR:
Mon- Confirmation 5-6:15
Tues- Quilters 9-2; Bible Study 11:30-12:15; Council meeting 7pm
Wed- Choir 7pm
Fri- Assemble newsletter 9am
Sat- The Story Chapter 3 Study 4pm; worship 5pm
Sun- worship 8:30 and 11; Sunday school  and Adult Bible class on The Story Ch. 3 9:45; High School Bible Study at Imo's 5pm
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WORSHIP WORKERS FOR THIS COMING WEEKEND
Acolytes- 8:30- Austin Heitgerd; 11- Zack Hoelscher
Altar guild- Set up Marilyn Foster and Sue Ruhl; Clean up- Lois Boeger
Greeters- 8:30- Don Nolte; 11- Mike and Naomi Johnson
Elders- Sat- John Hachtel; 8:30- Rich Talbert; 11- Jim Rahn
Lay Readers- Sat- John Hachtel; Sun- Alan Hofeldt
Sat. Pianist- Molly Hendershot
Ushers- Scott Heitgerd, Tom Linke, Alex Heitgerd, Bob Linke
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NEWS:
THE STORY: CHAPTER 3  "Joseph, From Slave to Deputy Pharaoh"
 
Learn all about the amazing story of Joseph and how God used him and his trials to bring about salvation for His people.
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COUNCIL MEETING TUESDAY AT 7PM!!! 
Agendas are in the mailboxes of all of our officers and chairpersons. 
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STEAK DINNER AND AUCTION SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15 BEGINNING AT 6PM!! 
Tickets are on sale in the narthex before and after worship or you can call the church office during the week to get yours!  Come and enjoy a wonderful time, wonderful food, and get lots of good deals and on stuff that you will really use and need!!
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TRIVIA NIGHT THIS SATURDAY, JANUARY 25 STARTING AT 6PM!!!
Form a team of eight and call Marilyn  in the office to sign up or just come by yourself and we will add you to a team!!   Cost is $5 per adult and $2.50 for kids 18 and younger.  Bring your own snack and beverages. 
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WORK DAY THIS SATURDAY, JANUARY 25 BEGINNING AT 8AM! 
To connect the new lighting fixtures in the preschool room, and to work on a few other odds and ends that need to get done. 
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HELP FOR PARENTS TO GUIDE THEIR CHILDREN THROUGH THE STORY
A big part of The Story experience is that the whole family grows together in it as each person in the family reads it, you will all literally be on the same page.  yet, it may be hard to get discussion going or to help you get started together.   Are you looking for a way to connect with your kids as they and you read The Story together?  There's help!
 
If you click the link below you will find parent pages for all age groups that you can use to connect with your kids at least once a week.  Whenever your "together" time is, make it productive.  It is a .pdf file of parent pages that goes from lesson one all the way through 31.  Check it out and tell me what you think.  I think they are excellent!! 
https://assets1.mytrainsite.com/501196/the_story_parentpages_weeks1_31.pdf?r=1438

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NEW BIBLE STUDY DAY AND TIME ADDED TO THE SCHEDULE
In order to give everyone a chance to participate fully in The Story we have added a Saturday afternoon Bible study at 4pm.  This is especially good for those who normally attend worship on Saturday evening, but is for EVERYONE who wants to attend!!
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PRAYER REQUESTS:  (If you have a prayer request please reply to this email or call me at 636-359-1061)
 
DAVE CALLIES, undergoing knee replacement surgery on Tuesday.

 
JONAS BORCHERT, grandson of Don Nolte, as he continues to deal with cancer in his lungs.

MARY AUBUCHON who is back home and recovering from pneumonia.
 
DONNA HEITGERD recovering at Scott and Lani Heitgerd's from a broken hip.
 
WILMA WEIGLE as she continues to recover from pneumonia and other complications due to brain surgery. 
 
PAMELA, a friend of Kathy Fischer, who is suffering with a different types of cancer and is recovering from surgery. 
 
 
         







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Update on Jonas Borchert



-------- Original message --------
From: B4eon@aol.com
Date:01/19/2014 6:15 PM (GMT-06:00)
To: JBllngh@aol.com,lindacallies@centurylink.net,dgwinter@centurylink.net,fritzi4e@gmail.com,ragjrg@att.net,molly_hendershot@yahoo.com,jmbiest@gmail.com,gretlsmom@sbcglobal.net,wkostman@gmail.com,kozhav@juno.com,jngk@frontier.com,lois.boeger@gmail.com,warrlutheran@centurytel.net,2msann@gmail.com,JeaneneMoritz@hotmail.com,Nevinelcj@aol.com,bnolte@att.net,gnjn@hotmail.com,revklaus@hotmail.com,Ragoss@SuddenLink.net,gdrapp@att.net,sayreet@sbcglobal.net,snsrobine@centurytel.net,rlgolter@yahoo.com,prkchopcop@aol.com,malveaux28@juno.com,damarwill@frontier.com,Witzl@aol.com
Subject: Fwd: (no subject)


Posted 1 day ago
The scans Jonas had on Wednesday showed that there was no new metastasis in his body. The radiation did reduce the one tumor in his right lung, but the cancer continues to grow and spread in the lungs in general.
Our new oncologist has put together a plan that would resemble something like the trial we were trying to enroll Jonas in. The first step is getting a biopsy of one of the tumors in the lungs and having it tested. They will check the tissue to make sure this is the same cancer- -Ewings Sarcoma - -that he has been treated for all along. (Chemotherapy, radiation, transfusions, etc....all of which Jonas has had.... can cause secondary cancers.) If this is a different type of cancer, we would need to attack it differently. The testing will also help to rule out drugs that will not work.
So, after scans on Wednesday, Jonas was scheduled for an immediate biopsy procedure. He went into the hospital on Wednesday evening, had laparoscopic surgery on Thursday, spent the Friday recovering and will be discharged this afternoon, Saturday.
Even though laparoscopic surgery is less invasive, it can still be very painful. In Jonas's case, they made three incisions into his left ribcage, under his left arm, through the spaces between his ribs to retrieve a slice of the largest tumor on his left lung. This tumor is attached to the lung but is growing outside the lung between the lung and the heart, extending out and attaching to the chest cavity wall. The surgery was very successful and they got a large slice of the tumor, but he is still pretty uncomfortable. He is well enough to go home today, recuperate tomorrow and start chemotherapy on Monday. It will take about ten days for the tissue to be analysed, at which point the chemotherapy regimen will be altered according to the findings.
For now, he's pretty doped up and resting comfortably.

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7 Message(s)

Posted 12 hours ago
Hope Jonas made it home today as planned and he's not too uncomfortable. That's good they are able to move forward next week with chemo before all the test results are back. We're thinking of Jonas and you all as he gets started with this new treatment plan!
Posted 20 hours ago
Thank you for sharing this update on Jonas. I think of you and Jonas on a daily basis and pray. The plan you outlined makes sense and I hope Jonas' pain is reduced quickly. Sending love and prayers.
Posted 22 hours ago
Thank you, Kristin, for the update. Jonas, we love you!
Posted 23 hours ago
A new plan is better than no plan...so sorry for all he has had to endure...love and hugs to all of you - especially for Jonas...
Posted 24 hours ago
How much can any family endure! Well wishes to Jonas. If you have time, please call me. My friend and doctor who remembers Jonas from one of our outings, always asks about him...and told me to tell you to contact Senator Cleaver to get Jonas into any trial at Children's Mercy...Please follow thru, if you haven't done so already. Our hearts break for you all, but we remain hopeful. Merryland and Koshieland
Posted 24 hours ago
So grateful that everything is moving forward. The best news is that he is able to come home. And also that he is resting comfortably. Still in my prayers. I know that he is a winner. It is so in him to thrive every breath he takes. Tell him that I keep wearing his bracelet and think of him often.
Love Aunt Stephanie
Posted 24 hours ago
You are in our prayers! Sending HOPE and Hugs!
Deliece Hofen
Welcome, angie

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About Jonas

Jonas is 15 years old now and was admitted to the hospital two
years ago to the day....with Ewings...

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The Lutheran Hour: January 19, 2014



-------- Original message --------
From: Lutheran Hour Ministries
Date:01/18/2014 9:16 PM (GMT-06:00)
To: revklaus@hotmail.com
Subject: The Lutheran Hour: January 19, 2014


 
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Sermon Text for January 19, 2014

 
"Just in Time" #81-20
Presented on The Lutheran Hour on January 19, 2014
By Rev. Gregory Seltz, Lutheran Hour Speaker
(Hate Our Father And Mother?)
Copyright 2014 Lutheran Hour Ministries

The Lutheran Hour audio button



Text: John 1:29-42

Christ Jesus, the Lamb who was slain, is risen and reigns in heaven forever. And because of Him, we can have eternal life now and forever. Amen.

It's amazing in life that people, events, leaders often rise up and come along, just in time. Tomorrow the United States remembers the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. For so many, for even a nation, he was a man who came just in time, wasn't he? He came with an eloquent voice, a Scripture-filled message, to address the injustice and violence of racism. For the politics of freedom and justice for all, Dr. King came just in time.

Many of his words spoken in his famous "I Have a Dream" speech still ring true today. King declared:
I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character...

This is our hope. This is the faith that I go back to the South with...with this faith we will be able to work together, to pray together, to struggle together, to go to jail together, to stand up for freedom together, knowing that we will be free one day.

Martin Luther King brought a fresh and bold word to a nation that needed mending just in time. Through his sacrifice and leadership, a nation was able to face up to its racial discrimination and inequities, to forge a new future that started to live up to the very ideals upon which it was founded, just in time.

500 years earlier, King's namesake, Martin Luther stood before the Holy Roman Emperor and the Pope of Rome, literally laying his life on the line so that all people could know not just temporal freedom, but the even greater eternal freedom that comes by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone. That too was a moment where a man with a message was just in time. In many ways, the whole Western World was born in the Reformation that came through the fearless leadership of one man, Martin Luther. 

Certain people arrive just in time. And when they do, many are glad, even saved!

Last summer, on a hot day in Brooklyn, New York, a one-year-old baby boy managed to crawl up to a window in his second-story home. This little tot pushed aside some cardboard blocking an opening next to an air conditioning unit and he squeezed through the gap. The curious boy wanted to look out that window. Then he climbed out the window onto the fire escape when a near-disaster took place. He fell. He plummeted from the fire escape. That's just when Cristina Torre happened to be walking by. She saw what was happening and she ran to help. The baby hit an awning of a yogurt shop and bounced right into Cristina's arms. She caught the little boy before he hit the ground. She saved his life. There she was, just in time, and it made all the difference in the world to that little boy.

Cristina happens to be the daughter of former Yankees' manager and former big league catcher Joe Torre. He pointed out that this was the most important catch in the family, to be sure. 
Cristina was there, just in time. And people cheered.
That's what people do when someone arrives just in time to save the day!
That's what is going on in our text for today. The prophet named John the Baptizer is speaking to the people of his day, declaring as clearly as he can that the One Person this world needs to believe in; He has arrived, and it's just in time. He tells them, He tells you and me, "Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!" 

And did you hear the reaction in John chapter one? 

During John the Baptist's day, people were looking for the Messiah to arrive. They were hoping for one who would lead them to freedom, to prosperity. People were eager. People were excited. At first, because of John's bold preaching and unique character, many thought John the Baptist was that just in time leader. 

Well, in John chapter one, we hear the priests and the Levites were sent by the Pharisees to clearly ask him if he was the Messiah. Could he be the one? After all, he was a miracle baby of Zechariah and Elizabeth. He was the prophet in the wilderness who preached eloquently and who called people to repentance. Could he be the Messiah? John the Baptist gave the answer. 

"No, not me. I'm the one though, here to prepare His way." John made it clear that he wasn't the Messiah, but there was One who stood among them who was. Someone arrived just in time.

Wow! Who could it be? People were looking intently because they knew that if this One Person arrived just in time, it would literally change the world by changing lives, one at a time!

So, are you looking for the One who came just in time, just in time for you? If not, what are you looking for?

It seems like we're always looking for some leader, some guru, some politician to come in and save the day or change our communities for the moment. We do value just-in-time people who make the right thing happen for all by risking to do the right thing, by sacrificing their own comforts so that things might change for the better. On a day like tomorrow, we remember that on December 1, 1955, 42-year-old Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a public bus in Montgomery, Alabama. She was arrested for disobeying the white bus driver who told her to let white people take her seat. 

But, did you know about the faith that was at the center of her actions; the faith that caused her not only to stay seated, but to act with dignity in the face of injustice.

Parks ironically never planned to be arrested for breaking a racist law, but when told to get up from the white section and give a white person her seat by moving back. She was convinced that to do that would be wrong. So she said, "Since I have always been a strong believer in God, I knew that He was with me, and only He could get me through that next step." 

The story of Rosa Parks is a reminder of what a central role Christian faith has played in the civil rights movement. Dr. King was a Christian minister who turned the other cheek in the face of violence. And Jackie Robinson's Christian faith was what led Branch Rickey, another devout Christian, to choose him as the man to break the color barrier in baseball.

Don't miss the key, the central force in all their actions; faith. Faith in Christ. Today, people are looking for all kinds of things, all kinds of leaders. People are looking all over the place for anything that will make them feel better and fill the gaps of life. People are looking for the latest cell phone, the latest tablet, the latest big TV. Maybe those things will help them feel satisfied for a time; but what really can satisfy us deep in our souls? What can overcome the lasting problems that we face? 

People are looking for peace in a violent, turbulent, war torn world. People are looking for security in a fragile and uncertain economy. People are looking for unity and honesty in politics and leadership. People are looking for a cure for cancer, for Alzheimer's, for Parkinson's, for depression. People are looking for healing, for love. People are looking for purpose; for friendship; for hope. 

Yes, we're looking, but what's the most important thing of all to find? That's the question. I know you're looking for something, my friend, but John the Baptizer says there is One Person that you really need to meet, that you really need to listen to. John says "Look at Him!"

John "saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, 'Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!'" (John 1:29)

John was thrilled. Here was the One he was told about. This was the One he came to prepare the way for. And now the Son of God, the Messiah, He had arrived. This was the One promised to Adam and Eve. This was the One who was of the line of King David who even David would bow down to as Lord. This Man was the One, the Savior for all. 

The Bible says, "When the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoptions to sonship."

Look! There He is! Behold, the Lamb of God!

That exclamation was a just in time moment. Here was the One who was to fulfill all God's promises and sinful humanities greatest hopes and dreams. This was the Lamb, the sacrificial Messiah who had come for all, just in time.

In the Old Testament, rams and lambs were often sacrificial substitutes for sinners. Remember the heart-wrenching story about Abraham when he was commanded by God to sacrifice his son, Isaac. Together they marched to the mountain where God told them to go. Even young Isaac asked where the ram was. He saw the fire and the wood, but where was the ram? His father told him, "God will provide for himself the ram for the burnt offering" (Genesis 22:8). Then, after Isaac was tied to the altar, Abraham raised his knife and the angel of the Lord stopped him and provided a ram, just in time. The ram of God, like the coming Lamb of God, arrived as a substitute.

Remember the lamb in the story of Moses; the children of Israel were in bondage in Egypt. Remember the Angel of Death was ready to descend upon Egypt for their willful disobedience to God? Pharaoh had rejected God's call to let His people go. His direct opposition to God brought on that final plague: the death of all the firstborn. The only way to be spared from the Destroyer was to take a lamb without defect, sacrifice it, and spread the blood on the doorposts. The sacrifice of the lamb would rescue them from the angel of death. The Lamb of God would save them (Exodus 12), just in time.

So, imagine what the first-century Jewish crowd heard when John the Baptizer declared, "Look! Look at Him! The Lamb of God!" Provision from God, just in time. Rescue from God, just in time. Forgiveness from God, just in time. It was beyond what they were looking for and it was exactly what they needed.

And He is exactly what you and I need too. New cell phones fade fast. New TVs become old news quickly. Cures to the most challenging illnesses are wonderful, but only temporary. Love and friendships are very good, but they end when life ends. But Jesus, the Savior, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, is eternal. The new life He brings, the hope He gives, the healing He provides, it lasts forever. The purpose He places into your lives brings satisfaction and peace that never fade.

So, what are you looking for today? As good as some leaders have been for us in the past, even their leadership and sacrifice can't overcome the ultimate challenges of sin, and guilt, and heartache, and brokenness in our lives. John says you will find God's answer to those things, now and forever, in the Lamb of God. You will find it in Jesus Christ. 

That's what happened to John's disciples. They were searching. They thought John was the one. But then came Jesus, the Lamb of God. The Gospel writer tells it this way: Jesus turned and saw them following and said, 'What are you seeking?' And they said, 'Rabbi, where are you staying?' He said to them, 'Come and you will see.' So they came and saw where he was staying, and they stayed with him that day, for it was about the tenth hour. One of the two who heard John speak and followed Jesus was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. He first found his own brother Simon and said to him, 'We have found the Messiah' (which means Christ)" (John 1:37-41).

Everything they were looking for they found in Jesus. And they followed Him.

Friend, today your Savior comes to you just in time. He has heard your prayers. He shows up for you. In Him is everything you're looking for, everything you need. That's the message of the Bible. For Noah and his family living in the midst of evil and rebellion, God saved them just in time. For frightened people on the banks of the Red Sea, God brought them through the raging waters just in time. For the outnumbered army of Joshua, God showed him His power just in time. For three men thrown into the fiery furnace in Babylon, God kept the flames at bay just in time. For Daniel in the lion's den, God drew close with His protection and comfort just in time. That's the Savior God for you as testified to you in the Scriptures.

And even in our day, this is the Savior God who comes to us just in time. During a turbulent time in the history of the United States, a time of division and hatred, a just in time leader and pastor, called a nation to Christian brotherhood; not just to lip service, not to just hearing the Word, but to doing what the Word of God says. Martin Luther King was convinced that the scientific and technological advances of our day could easily distract us from the condition of our souls. Our laws can be wrong, our technology can leave us cold, our best efforts still need the power and purpose of God at the center to be a blessing to others. The spirit of Christian brotherhood, the spirit of Christ Himself was needed then and it's still needed today! In fact, it's even more necessary for our personal lives too. 

So, what about your life? The Lamb of God, Jesus, is here for you right now. He is your help in times of trouble. He brings the word of encouragement you need. He delivers to you the news of forgiveness when you need a new beginning. He bestows upon you the certain news of eternal life for your heart of grief. 

Yes, just in time. He is exactly what you need. He fills your empty soul. He restores your tired and weary heart. Just in time.

Jesus is just in time to you but He's also just in time through you. 

Did you notice that Jesus changed Peter's name right away. Jesus said to him, "You are Simon the son of John? You shall be called Cephas (which means Peter)" (John 1:42). To Simon's regular name, Jesus added "Cephas" which means "rock." A regular guy became a rock in the presence of Jesus. Something new was happening in Simon Peter's life because of Jesus.

The same is true for you and me. Something new is happening in you because of Jesus. Just think about it. He opens doors for you to serve others and to use your gifts. He provides people who believe in you. A new year is tough. People are looking for something new. They try health club memberships, and the workouts fade away. We make resolutions, and they are forgotten. We're hoping for the best in a new year, but a new year seems to bring the same old stuff. But you, my friend, not only can know this Jesus as the key to your life, now and forever, but through your life you can also bring Christ to those who need Him, too.

What we all need this new year and always; we need the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! We need Jesus! John says "Look! Here He is. He's the Answer. Our Hope. Our Savior. The Son of God. Jesus. Today in His living Word, in the living water of baptism, His body and blood at communion, here is the Lamb of God. He's exactly what we need, what we're looking for." 

Here is Jesus! Just in time and He has come for you. If you want to know Him, know that He wants to know you, and we here at The Lutheran Hour are here to help you get to know Jesus Christ. Call us, write us, we're here for you because we want you to know and believe there's no one like Jesus and He is here for you and me, just in time!

Amen.



LUTHERAN HOUR MAILBOX (Questions & Answers) for January 19, 2014
Topic: Hate Our Father And Mother?

ANNOUNCER: Now, Pastor Gregory Seltz responds to questions. I'm Mark Eischer. Here's a question I've always had concerning this one passage in the Bible, Jesus says, 'If anyone comes to me but does not hate his father, or his mother, his wife, his children, yes, even his own life, he can not be my disciple.' How can Jesus tell us to hate, He's the Savior who came to love and to show us how to love others? 

SELTZ: Wow, what a verse. I know this has troubled a lot of our listeners, too. But the first thing we need to understand is that this is a Hebrew figure of speech that was often used to make a point.

ANNOUNCER: So He might not be saying "Hate your mother and father" literally, but He's trying to make a point?

SELTZ: Yes, in fact Jesus is not saying "Hate father, and mother, etc." but speaks about it in reference to "being a disciple." So, it's not a general discussion about love and hate, it's a discussion about defining our ultimate loves.

ANNOUNCER: Could you explain that?

SELTZ: Will do. The love/hate statement has to do with what you give your ultimate preference, your ultimate allegiance to. Jesus is even saying, "If you love anything more than Me or anything in the place of Me, you can have no part of Me or the salvation that I have for you by grace."

ANNOUNCER: And that salvation is a reconciled relationship with God through Jesus and it's really the key to loving those that God sends into our lives. 

SELTZ: It sure is. We know that Jesus teaches us elsewhere about love and how to loves others. He even says, "You should love God, and love your neighbor as yourself." At the cross, while being crucified to save the world, there He worried about His mother and made sure that she was cared for. But, Jesus' point here is, "if you want to love others, you have to have a relationship with God through Me," that's first, that's foremost in your life and that alone makes real love possible through your life to others. 

ANNOUNCER: Which is another way of saying, "Seek first the Kingdom of God and then all these other things find their proper place."

SELTZ: That's an excellent way to summarize it, Mark. When Jesus says "seek first," He really is saying "Seek only the Kingdom of God." Again, priority, first and foremost talk.

ANNOUNCER: So why couldn't Jesus just say that? Why did He have to use such shocking language?

SELTZ: Well, it's important to put the phrase in context. Jesus was speaking to the crowds and many of them in the crowds had their own opinion about what He stood for. Some thought He was a miracle worker, a rabbi, a political leader. Many had their own idea of how Jesus should help them.

ANNOUNCER: But, He didn't come to just help them, He came to save them.

SELTZ: Exactly. The people had a political, even false religious view, of Him and He's trying to make the point, "I'm not here merely to help or give advice, I'm here to save you, to bring God's love and forgiveness to you as a gift." And so to make that very, very, very clear, He uses this either/or, love/hate language.

ANNOUNCER: And we find that language shocking to our ears, but I suppose they would have understood that as an idiomatic way of speaking and hopefully they got the point.

SELTZ: Yeah, they did and it was shocking to them for sure, but that's why it's also important for us to hear it properly too. Jesus is the One and only Savior. That's what He is saying. He is our Lord, our Messiah, our King. There is nothing in this world that should or could take His place in our lives. If anything or anyone does, the Bible would call that idolatry, that's putting our faith and our love in the wrong place. Such misplaced allegiances actually inhibit and constrain our ability to really love people too. 

ANNOUNCER: Because, ironically, by putting our faith and trust solely in Christ, we're unleashing God's love in our lives and that enables us to better love those that He sends into our lives. 

SELTZ: That's exactly right. Faith in Christ alone empowers a believer's true, lasting love to others. It's all about priority, about ultimate allegiances. It's about knowing where one's true resource for love really lies. When that is right, when our faith and love are focused on Christ, when we, another way of saying it is spurn anything else that demands our faith and focus more than Him, when we are focused on Him, we gain all those other things as well.

ANNOUNCER: So we can take Christ's shocking language not just as a warning, but also an invitation to receive and then share God's love in all its fullness.

SELTZ: Exactly.

ANNOUNCER: Thank you, Pastor Seltz. This has been a presentation of Lutheran Hour Ministries.



Music Selections for this program:

"A Mighty Fortress" arranged by Chris Bergmann. Used by permission.

"Hail to the Lord's Anointed" From Music for the November Feasts by the Schola Cantorum of St. Peter's, Chicago (© 1995 The Order of St. Benedict, Inc.)

"To Jordan's River Came Our Lord" From The Concordia Organist (© 2009 Concordia Publishing House)

"Lord, Keep Us Steadfast in Your Word" From The Concordia Organist (© 2009 Concordia Publishing House)

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Warren County Bookcase Project

For the third year in a row, Warren County Literacy Inc. is giving away oak bookcases to underprivileged kids in Warren County.  This year there are 85 kids from the Headstart program and other resources who are in need of these bookcases and books.  They are handmade bookcases by Rich Lageman (a retired principal and teacher from Wright City) with help from  students from Wright City. 
 
There is a real problem of illiteracy and under literacy in our community.  This program is an excellent way to combat this and help kids to be proud of their ability to read and their books. 
 
Allan Dreyer, Marlys Mertens, and Pastor Klaustermeier are on this board and are willing to answer any questions you may have.
 
Would you please consider giving to this very worthy cause?  Each bookcase costs $55.
 
Checks made out the same as In the past: Warren County Bookcase Project
 
 Send to: Warren County Bookcase Project
               c/o First State Community Bank
               1022 N. Hwy 47
               Warrenton, MO

Thurs. Jan 16, 2014

DEVOTION:  Some time later  God tested Abraham.  He said to him, "Abraham!" "Here I am," Abraham replied.   The God said, "Take your son, your only son, who you love-- Isaac-- and go to the region of Moriah.  Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on a mountain I will show you."   The Story pg. 19  Genesis 22:1-2
 
Have you ever thought that God was testing you as you go through a particularly tough time?  You may have wondered what God wants you to do in a particular situation.  You may have wondered what God's purpose was in letting you go through some of the toughest and most trying times in your life.  He may just be testing you.
 
A test is a measure of how much you know, how strong you are, how much you have gained or lost, or just where you are at a certain time in your life.  The test isn't as much for the one giving the test as it is for the one taking/going through the test. 
 
Every time you take a test you then know what areas need work.  If you take a math test you know after the test if you know everything well enough or if you have to work a specific area that you don't know well enough.  If it is a fitness test it will tell you whether you are fit enough, if you have to lose weight, if you have to get a certain muscle group stronger, if you have to eat better, or whatever the case might be.
 
There are spiritual tests that God puts us through from time to time.  These tests do a number of things:
1. They show you who is in charge, that as much as you like to think you are in control of your circumstances, you aren't.
 
2. They show you that you need to pray more.  Every test I have ever been through in my life has caused me to talk to God more. 
 
3. They show you where you need help in your spiritual life.  A lot of times you need more humility.  Sometimes you need to learn to confess your sins more.  Still other times, you need to give or receive forgiveness from someone else or from God.  Etc.  When you are going through tough times you need to ask God what He is trying to teach you.  If you need help with the answer to your questions or how to deal with what God is telling you, that is what pastors are for!
 
4. They make you stronger.  Just knowing your weaknesses gives you clarity of lie and helps you grow in God's strength.
 
5. It helps you to appreciate all the more God's mercy and grace. 
 
Prayer:  Lord God help me to grow through my trials and to even appreciate them as times of growth and repentance.  Make me see your work through these times that I may grow in your grace till the end.  Amen.
 

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________
WEDNESDAY'S QUIZ: What chapter in Hebrews is about Abraham?  Chapter 11  (Can anyone answer before Dianne?  She seems to be the quickest!  Let's see who else has the answer.)
____________________________________________________________________
THURSDAY'S QUIZ: On what  mountain region did Abraham almost sacrifice Isaac?
_____________________________________________________________________
CALENDAR:
Fri- Jr Hi and High school lock in 7pm-7am
Sat- Life Study 4pm; worship 5pm
Sun- worship 8:30 and 11; Sunday school  and Adult Bible class on Life issues 9:45; Elders meeting noon
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
WORSHIP WORKERS FOR THIS COMING WEEKEND
Acolytes- 8:30- Grace Hargrove; 11- Alaina Heitgerd
Altar guild- Set up Marilyn Foster and Sue Ruhl; Clean up- Terry McKenzie
Greeters- 8:30- Dianne Feldkamp; 11- Charlie and Lynn Figura
Elders- Sat- Don Turnure; 8:30- Randy Sweet; 11- Charlie Figura
Lay Readers- Sat- Marcia Sevier; Sun- Lynn Figura
Sat. Pianist- Tim Sherman
Ushers- Alan Hoeldt, Tim Linke, Rich Talbert, Don Turnure
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
NEWS:
LIFE WEEKEND IS THIS WEEKEND!!
We are going to take a short break from The Story to celebrate life.  For 44 years now on the third weekend of January (around the anniversary of Roe vs. Wade).  We celebrate the life that God has given us which begins at conception.  God formed us in our mother's wombs and we have no right to ever take that life away.  For the moment of conception to our last breath God is the one in control of our lives.  This weekend we are going to celebrate God's gift of life to us!!  Please join us in celebrating life!!
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
JR AND SR HI LOCK IN THIS FRIDAY NIGHT 7am-7pm.
All kids in 7-12 grade are invited to attend and bring friends!!  We are going to have a lot of fun!!  Let pastor know that you are coming!! 
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
HELP FOR PARENTS TO GUIDE THEIR CHILDREN THROUGH THE STORY
A big part of The Story experience is that the whole family grows together in it as each person in the family reads it, you will all literally be on the same page.  yet, it may be hard to get discussion going or to help you get started together.   Are you looking for a way to connect with your kids as they and you read The Story together?  There's help!
 
If you click the link below you will find parent pages for all age groups that you can use to connect with your kids at least once a week.  Whenever your "together" time is, make it productive.  It is a .pdf file of parent pages that goes from lesson one all the way through 31.  Check it out and tell me what you think.  I think they are excellent!! 
https://assets1.mytrainsite.com/501196/the_story_parentpages_weeks1_31.pdf?r=1438

____________________________________________________________________________________________________
NEW BIBLE STUDY DAY AND TIME ADDED TO THE SCHEDULE
In order to give everyone a chance to participate fully in The Story we have added a Saturday afternoon Bible study at 4pm.  This is especially good for those who normally attend worship on Saturday evening, but is for EVERYONE who wants to attend!!

________________________________________________________________________________________________
ANY INTEREST IN STARTING A SMALL GROUP TO STUDY THE STORY?????
If anyone is interested in starting a small group Bible Study, please call, text, or email me.  I am ALWAYS OPEN FOR NEW IDEAS!!
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
ELDER'S MEETING THIS SUNDAY AT NOON!!
Please be there so we can start the new year off on the right foot!
___________________________________________________________________________________________
PRAYER REQUESTS:  (If you have a prayer request please reply to this email or call me at 636-359-1061)
 
JONAS BORCHERT, grandson of Don Nolte, as he continues to deal with cancer in his lungs.

MARY AUBUCHON who is back home and recovering from pneumonia.
 
DONNA HEITGERD recovering at Scott and Lani Heitgerd's from a broken hip.
 
WILMA WEIGLE as she continues to recover from pneumonia and other complications due to brain surgery. 
 
PAMELA, a friend of Kathy Fischer, who is suffering with a different types of cancer and is recovering from surgery. 
 
 
         





Winter Jam at Scottrade this Sunday, doors open at 5pm

WInter Jam is an even Contemporary Christian Music festival of all the best artists and musicians in Christian music. 
 
The cost is $10 at the door. 
 
 
We will need to leave church around 2:30pm and stand in line for an hour or so to get decent seats.
 
 
DOES ANY ONE WANT TO GO?  If you do please reply to this email asap so I know how many are going. 
 
 

Update on Jonas Borchert, Don Nolte grandson



-------- Original message --------
From: B4eon@aol.com
Date:01/15/2014 6:28 PM (GMT-06:00)
To: JBllngh@aol.com,lindacallies@centurylink.net,dgwinter@centurylink.net,ragjrg@att.net,molly_hendershot@yahoo.com,jmbiest@gmail.com,wkostman@gmail.com,jngk@frontier.com,kozhav@juno.com,lois.boeger@gmail.com,warrlutheran@centurytel.net,2msann@gmail.com,JeaneneMoritz@hotmail.com,Nevinelcj@aol.com,bnolte@att.net,gnjn@hotmail.com,rockntaz37@yahoo.com,revklaus@hotmail.com,sayreet@sbcglobal.net,snsrobine@centurytel.net,rlgolter@yahoo.com,damarwill@frontier.com,Witzl@aol.com
Subject: Fwd: Jonas


In the month of December, Jonas had developed a dry cough. Our radiologist said that his his lung could detect a mass in there and was trying to cough it out. (Which, of course, it could not. If only you could just cough out a tumor.) The largest of tumors in this lungs is on the right main bronchial tube. Doctors told us that because of its framework along the bronchial tube it cannot be removed without removing the entire lung, which is not an option. There is such a thing as a lung transplant, but cancer patients are not a good risk and, as I understand, cannot get one even if they wanted to. About two weeks ago Jonas completed 15 daily rounds of radiation to just that tumor in his right lung. His radiologist says that she expects to see a very measurable success. We think so, too. The cough was all but gone by time we got to the last 3 or 4 radiation treatments. This tells us that the tumor has shrunk considerably.

By the end of December we also recieved our final answer from Children's Mercy Hospital -- that they would not even be considering Jonas for the clinical trial he was elligible for. I'm still trying to process it all and I may post more about it here later, but let me bring you up to speed from there. We decided to enroll Jonas in the trial at a different hospital and by the time we had gotten all our paperwork to them, the trial had closed...nationally. So, we won't be getting in on that trial. It's too bad, really. Jonas had develped a great sense of hope with the thought of this trial. And sometimes, hope is all you need.

Now we need to get back to chemotherapy that will treat ALL of his cancer systemically. Before we can proceed he will need to have a full set of scans to tell us just where his cancer progression stands. Scans are scheduled for tomorrow.

Thank you to everyone who helped us get through Christmas. It was a special one.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_UKJLsOe5rM



Sent from AOL Mobile Mail

Tues. Jan 14, 2014

DEVOTION:  "After this the Lord came to Abram in a vision: 'Do not be afraid, Abram.  I am your shield, your very great reward."   Genesis 15:1
 
What are you afraid of?  Are you afraid of the dark?  Are you afraid of public speaking?  Are you afraid that a relationship is deteriorating too much to keep going?  Are you afraid for your financial future?  Are you afraid for your kid's safety? 
 
Let's face it.  There is more than enough stuff in this world to fear.  You can take your pick.  The trouble is that when we start letting our fears control us we are forgetting the extremely real comfort that is found in the verse above.  We forget that God is our shield against all things and that He alone is our greatest reward. 
 
Things might harm us.  We might feel discomfort and even very bad pain in this world.  We will experience loss, frustration, bitterness, etc....  These things are very real too and too often cannot be avoided. The good news is that these things only last for a little while.  There is an end to all of it.  None of it will last forever.  He will deflect the everlasting effects of sin from us and in sin's place He will put everlasting peace, love and forgiveness.   
 
Abram suffered a long time with discomfort, pain, and loss.  He had all sorts of trouble.  Some of it was his own doing.  Some of it was from the people around him, like Lot.  In all of this Abram's faith remained and so he stayed in God's grace and was blest with eternal life because of it. 
 
Live in faith today, so that no matter what happens God will be your shield and your great reward. 
 
Prayer:  Lord God, thank you for giving me faith and for shielding me from the lasting effects of Satan. Help me to trust in you for all things forever.  Amen.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________
YESTERDAY'S QUIZ:  In what chapter and verse of Genesis are Abram and Sarai's names changed to Abraham and Sarah?  In Genesis 17:5 Abram is changed to Abraham.  In Genesis 17:15 Sarai is changed to Sarah   (Good job again Dianne!)
_______________________________________________________________________
TODAY'S QUIZ: What chapter in Hebrews is about Abraham?
____________________________________________________________________
CALENDAR:
Tues- Quilters 9-2; The Story Study 11:30-12:15; Trustees 7pm
Wed- Ladies Aid noon; Choir 7pm; FEB NEWSLETTER DEADLINE
Fri- Jr Hi and High school lock in 7pm-7am
Sat- The Story Study 4pm; worship 5pm
Sun- worship 8:30 and 11; Sunday school 9:45; Elders meeting noon
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
WORSHIP WORKERS FOR THIS COMING WEEKEND
Acolytes- 8:30- Grace Hargrove; 11- Alaina Heitgerd
Altar guild- Set up Marilyn Foster and Sue Ruhl; Clean up- Terry McKenzie
Greeters- 8:30- Dianne Feldkamp; 11- Charlie and Lynn Figura
Elders- Sat- Don Turnure; 8:30- Randy Sweet; 11- Charlie Figura
Lay Readers- Sat- Marcia Sevier; Sun- Lynn Figura
Sat. Pianist- Tim Sherman
Ushers- Alan Hoeldt, Tim Linke, Rich Talbert, Don Turnure
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
NEWS:
LIFE WEEKEND IS THIS WEEKEND!!
We are going to take a short break from The Story to celebrate life.  For 44 years now on the third weekend of January (around the anniversary of Roe vs. Wade).  We celebrate the life that God has given us which begins at conception.  God formed us in our mother's wombs and we have no right to ever take that life away.  For the moment of conception to our last breath God is the one in control of our lives.  This weekend we are going to celebrate God's gift of life to us!!  Please join us in celebrating life!!
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
JR AND SR HI LOCK IN THIS FRIDAY NIGHT 7am-7pm.
All kids in 7-12 grade are invited to attend and bring friends!!  We are going to have a lot of fun!!  Let pastor know that you are coming!! 
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
HELP FOR PARENTS TO GUIDE THEIR CHILDREN THROUGH THE STORY
A big part of The Story experience is that the whole family grows together in it as each person in the family reads it, you will all literally be on the same page.  yet, it may be hard to get discussion going or to help you get started together.   Are you looking for a way to connect with your kids as they and you read The Story together?  There's help!
 
If you click the link below you will find parent pages for all age groups that you can use to connect with your kids at least once a week.  Whenever your "together" time is, make it productive.  It is a .pdf file of parent pages that goes from lesson one all the way through 31.  Check it out and tell me what you think.  I think they are excellent!! 
https://assets1.mytrainsite.com/501196/the_story_parentpages_weeks1_31.pdf?r=1438

____________________________________________________________________________________________________
NEW BIBLE STUDY DAY AND TIME ADDED TO THE SCHEDULE
In order to give everyone a chance to participate fully in The Story we have added a Saturday afternoon Bible study at 4pm.  This is especially good for those who normally attend worship on Saturday evening, but is for EVERYONE who wants to attend!!

________________________________________________________________________________________________
ANY INTEREST IN STARTING A SMALL GROUP TO STUDY THE STORY?????
If anyone is interested in starting a small group Bible Study, please call, text, or email me.  I am ALWAYS OPEN FOR NEW IDEAS!!
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
ELDER'S MEETING THIS SUNDAY AT NOON!!
Please be there so we can start the new year off on the right foot!
___________________________________________________________________________________________
PRAYER REQUESTS:  (If you have a prayer request please reply to this email or call me at 636-359-1061)

MARY AUBUCHON who is back home and recovering from pneumonia.
 
DONNA HEITGERD recovering at Scott and Lani Heitgerd's from a broken hip.
 
WILMA WEIGLE as she continues to recover from pneumonia and other complications due to brain surgery. 
 
PAMELA, a friend of Kathy Fischer, who is suffering with a different types of cancer and is recovering from surgery. 
 
 
            


           



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