St. John's Lutheran ChurchWarrenton, MO

Fwd: The Lutheran Hour: February 8, 2015

The Lutheran Hour with Rev.Gregory Seltz

Sermon Text for February 8, 2015

"The Gospel's Power for Gracious Living" #82-23

Presented on The Lutheran Hour on February 8, 2015
By Rev. Gregory Seltz, Lutheran Hour Speaker
(Why Does Christianity Seem to be Spreading Faster Internationally Than in the U.S.?)
Copyright 2015 Lutheran Hour Ministries

Text: 1 Corinthians 9:18-23

The Apostle Paul says, "For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them......I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings."

Christ is risen; He is risen indeed. Amen!

Things can change drastically when someone really cares. That's exactly what happened when Alvin and Anita Dickerson cared enough to get involved in a little girl's life. They were running errands in Sandy, Utah when they drove by a man and two women. For some reason, the man looked familiar to both of them. They stopped at a store to make some copies. As Anita left the store, she came within twenty feet of the man, getting a clear look at his face. She knew him. In fact, she just saw a picture of him the evening before on "America's Most Wanted," a television show that highlights unsolved criminal cases; in this particular case it was about a little girl who had been kidnapped. Anita got into her car and she told Alvin that she was going to call 911. As they drove home, she spoke to the police. She thought about that little girl, about her family, and because Anita was paying attention, because she cared about people, she helped police solve a confounding case. When the police notified her that her tip panned out, Anita said she got goose bumps. Who would have thought that paying attention to people could have such significant results?

But it does, doesn't it? Saying hello to a person can brighten his day. Greeting a store clerk and asking how she's doing can take her from feeling alone and overworked to feeling really cared about. Has anyone ever listened to you while you told them your troubles? Has a person ever taken time to take an interest in you? It feels good, doesn't it? In fact, it may have changed your life.

In grade school, I had a teacher like that. His name was Mr. Gerlach. He thought I could be a really good runner. Let's just say that, at that particular time, I didn't enjoy running very much in my life. But he would run with me after school, sometimes just the two of us. He challenged me to give it my all. He made sacrifices with such a joyful spirit. I didn't win much then, but later on in high school, I started to realize my potential. He had seen that all along. As I look back on some of those victorious moments, I realize that without his encouragement, it may have never happened. In fact, the attitude of service and concern that he and several of my teachers conveyed when I was in grade school, I'm sure that had a lot to do with me becoming a pastor today.

Gracious, relational living; taking the time to really serve and care for others even when they don't deserve it; that's what the Apostle Paul emphasized in 1 Corinthians, chapter nine. He said that he felt a burden to share the Good News of Jesus with others by serving others in His Name. He was given a sacred trust to connect with other people and freely give them news that would change their life. The free gift of the forgiveness of sins from God who loves all people was just too precious to keep to himself. So he lived graciously in a way that built relationships with others.

That's why Paul said: "For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I might share with them in its blessings" (1 Corinthians 9:18-23).

The Apostle Paul went to great lengths to live relationally, graciously towards others. He cared about people. He stepped into their lives. He noticed their needs. He showed flexibility and compassion because that's the way that people's lives can change, right? People change people's lives. E-mails don't usually do that. Junk mail ends up in the garbage. Recorded phone messages get deleted quickly. Impersonal presentations fall victim to distraction. But if a friend, or a family member, or a person you care about asks you for help, or invites you to go along, or personally recommends something, you very well may listen. You may try something new, lend a hand, or even adopt a new habit. People change people's lives and that's especially true when sharing the love of Jesus Christ.

Now, you need to understand that this isn't a message to merely challenge you to be more of an extrovert. In fact, to live graciously, relationally, you can be any personality type. You may be the type of person who thrives on meeting people, great. The Apostle Paul was probably on the timid side. The Bible gives us the impression that he wasn't the type of person who stood out in a crowd. It doesn't sound like he was an eloquent speaker. I don't think he was Mr. Popularity. He may have been an introvert--a bit shy, a bit quiet. But being an introvert doesn't disqualify you from living graciously or relationally either. In fact, it may give you some advantages.

In her book, "Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking," Susan Cain described some of the most influential corporate leaders from a study by business guru Jim Collins. These heads of companies caused their businesses to thrive. Were they in your face, loud, and relentless? Not at all. Cain said, "Those who worked with these leaders tended to describe them with the following words: quiet, humble, modest, reserved, shy, gracious, mild-mannered, self-effacing, understated. The lesson is clear. We don't need giant personalities to transform companies. We need leaders who build not their own egos but the institutions they run," (p.55). They focus on people becoming the best they can be.

The bigger point; God wants His people, as graced people, whether extroverts or introverts, to live graciously towards others with His love and forgiveness so that all who believe can eternally become what God intended. He wants people who care as He cares, people not trying to build their own egos, but people who seek to bless. That's a love that transforms things, changes people's lives, even eternally.

That's how the Apostle Paul lived as a believer. He lived graciously, relationally. And that is your purpose here on earth as a follower of Jesus too: to live a life that blesses people, that builds people up, that shows love and encouragement and affirmation; that serves others. You have the gift and calling of caring about and connecting with people so that they can know God's love and God's forgiveness in Jesus Christ.

But wait one moment, there are obstacles to all this, right? Perhaps you missed what I said because a text message was coming in, or your phone rang, or you were multi-tasking.

It's difficult to stay focused today on our life, let alone the lives of others, isn't it? There're so many things distracting us today. It's even more difficult to cultivate relationships these days. These days, people sit at tables in restaurants and each person is looking at his or her phone. No conversation is happening! These days, it's not easy to carry on a conversation when televisions are blaring, phones are buzzing, and computers are chiming in. Distractions keep us from relationships.

Fear, too, is also a barrier to relationships. You can become afraid of people who are different than you. You can be filled with fear because of high crime rates and a violent world. Fear of being hurt emotionally can cause you to seal yourself off from relationships with others. Fear, too, is a serious obstacle.

Being hurried is another. We live in a time of busyness. Schedules are packed, appointments are plentiful, and things-to-do lists are overflowing. There's not much time for anything or anyone else these days. Being in a constant rush can make you miss the cries of help all around you.

So the Apostle Paul made the effort to explain what truly, graciously connecting with others is all about. Secure in his relationship with God through Christ, resourced by His love; he was willing to invest his life in others in order to win them over. If God always had his back, if God was his certain and sure resource of love, and grace, and forgiveness, well, that's the power to open up his life to others.

Let me say it in other words, by grace, through Jesus, he could also give up his list of things to do, eliminate unnecessary distractions, put fears aside, and really get to know people. He took an interest. He listened to them. He walked in their shoes. He tried to understand what they were going through so he could be a blessing to them, just as God in Christ was for him.

And, people's needs today are the same as then. Above it all, people need the blessing of God; they need His love and grace like they need air to breathe. You can see it when people yearn to be heard, or to be valued, or to be understood. They might not realize it's a God thing, but you do. And, you are there in His Name, for them!

That's what Paul was trying to do. He was trying to open up people's eyes to God's blessing, a blessing that was all around them. Some people missed it because they were afraid to consider anything but their own traditions. Others were missing it because they were living by rules or guidelines of their own making. Some were weak, unwilling to believe they had any value. Some were full of themselves, unwilling to see their flaws and needs. And to those people, he jumped right into their lives. He walked with them, listened to them, got to know them. He lived relationally. Why? To be a blessing--God's blessing of grace for the lonely, the sad, the stuck, or the frantic. Paul declared: "I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings" (1 Corinthians 9:22-23).

So, dear friend, with a God who loves you that much, let me ask you this, "Who is God placing in your life so you can freely share with them God's blessing of grace and love?" Is it your doctor? How about your caregiver, or your kids, or a teacher, or a friend? Could it be the person in the office or cubicle next to you, or the person you eat lunch with almost every day at work?

God puts people all around you and me. He does it for a reason: the world doesn't bring much blessing on its own. It brings heartbreaking headlines, stressful schedules, and worry after worry. It brings financial pressure, unexpected car repairs, and health issues that lay you low. But you? You can bring blessing. True, you need some alone time. Yes, you need rest on occasion. It's true you can't be around people constantly, and we all need privacy; but people are there. And God calls you to dive into those relationships for the sake of the Gospel so that you may share with them in its blessings.

Of course, this doesn't mean you target people in order to make a spiritual conquest. And it doesn't mean that you live carelessly, putting your own integrity at risk. It just simply means showing self-sacrificial love. And remember, the key to it all is to remember where you get that kind of love. It comes from the One who first showed it to you and me.

You see, Jesus gave up everything to be in a relationship with us. Listen to the way that Paul describes that in Philippians, chapter two. He says it this way: "Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, (or held onto) but he emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross" (Philippians 2:2-8).

Jesus took complete interest in you and He does the same today. He entered into human flesh and died with your sins upon Himself. He humbled Himself so that you could be encouraged, so that you could be blessed with forgiveness and new life. And now He stays with you. He said, "I am with you always, even to the end of the age" (Matthew 28:20).

You are not a conquest in Jesus' ledger of lives won for Himself; you are a person, a person Jesus values, a person Jesus is interested in. You are in a relationship with your Savior. And because of it, you have a refuge and a strength in times of peril. You have Someone you can cast your cares on. You have Someone who listens to you when you speak and who helps you in time of need. You have Someone who gives you the blessing of eternal life. Jesus cares about you.
And now, in Him, you are free to care about others. You are sent to bless people with what is truly good and uplifting. You are free to take an interest in people, to give them an encouraging word, to show them that joy still exists and someone is still out there who cares about them. You are free to share the reason for the hope you have: your Savior and friend, Jesus Christ.

I'll never forget hearing about a woman named Nancy. She was going through a rough patch of life and felt extremely lonely and depressed. Her co-worker, Joanie, had become a friend to her over the years. As Joanie noticed Nancy's sadness, they talked together. Joanie offered to pray with her. Nancy accepted the offer. Months of conversations went by. Joanie encouraged her friend and listened to her. Then one day, Nancy asked if she could hear more about Joanie's beliefs. Joanie shared that she could never make it through the day without Jesus' help and strength. She confessed that some of the difficulties she faces may only find their resolution one day in heaven. And she held on to that hope in Him. Nancy wanted to know more, so Joanie invited her to come with her to church. Just a few weeks later, Nancy was baptized. She needed what Joanie had: God's blessing in the middle of a difficult life. Nancy and Joanie are still good friends. They're glad to walk in faith now and in life together.

And that's the point of this life this side of heaven; living relationally deepens your walk with Christ as it brings blessing to people that He brings into your life. Living relationally is what God created you for. From His relationship with you, you bring His encouraging love to others.

Sometimes it simply means stopping, looking, noticing, and speaking up.

I mentioned Anita Dickerson at the beginning of this message. After she called the police, several officers approached the man and two women Anita and her husband saw that day. One officer was certain he recognized the woman who was wearing big sunglasses and a wig. He looked her in her eyes, took her aside, and he asked her, "Are you Elizabeth Smart?"

Fourteen-year-old Elizabeth was abducted from her home just nine months earlier. Massive searches yielded no clues. Many thought she had perished. But Officer Victor Quezada took time to look very carefully at this young girl dressed like an older woman. The frightened girl's heart was beating fast and hard. The officer could see her fear and apprehension. It was true that some thought Elizabeth would never be found. It was true that, as a busy police officer, he had many other things he could be doing that day. But he also knew how important it was at that moment to connect with this young girl in distress. So he asked her again, "Are you Elizabeth Smart? Your family is looking for you." Finally, in spite of the intimidation of her captors, the frightened young woman admitted that she was, indeed, Elizabeth Smart. You can imagine the reaction of her parents when they found out their daughter was found. You can imagine the celebration and the joy that permeated Elizabeth's hometown that day. It all happened because people cared.

Well, that's what God is calling us to do and more. Living graciously, relationally, we get to be agents of His blessing in the lives of people. Can you see people in your life whom God is calling you to notice today? Can you imagine God's abundant grace overflowing from you to them, so that they can be blessed in Him too? Let's find out together, in Him.

Amen.

LUTHERAN HOUR MAILBOX (Questions & Answers) for Feb 08, 2015
Topic: Why Does Christianity Seem to be Spreading Faster Internationally Than in the U.S.?

ANNOUNCER: Now, Pastor Gregory Seltz responds to questions. I'm Mark Eischer. Pastor, a listener wonders why Christianity seems to be spreading faster in other parts of the world than here in North America.

SELTZ: Wow, Mark, that's a complex question, but there's one thing to keep in mind. According to Revelation 7, God is bringing people to faith from every tribe and nation; so we shouldn't be surprised to see it happening all over the world!

ANNOUNCER: Now, many people are being brought to faith in Jesus in what's been called the "Global South."

SELTZ: I'm glad that you didn't name some of the countries because the Christian faith is forbidden in a number of them, but suffice it to say that in Africa, many parts of Asia, and the Middle East, many areas of Central and South America, we are seeing a rapid increase in the number of believers.

ANNOUNCER: What accounts for that increase and why are we not seeing that same kind of activity in the U. S. and Canada?

SELTZ: First, let's be clear about the reason for the increase. Just as in the United States, there are people coming to faith in Jesus by the power of the Holy Spirit working through the Word of God to transform their hearts and lives. And let's be honest: there are many reasons that people in the Global South are hungering and thirsting for an eternal hope that the risen Savior Jesus gives; maybe more so than in North America.

ANNOUNCER: In many of those places people are facing oppression, violence, and suffering of all kinds.

SELTZ: They are. And that can create an openness to the hope and help of the Savior Jesus. There is something about desperation in the face of tribulation that causes people to cry out to God for help. And God calls out to them in Hebrews 4; it says "Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:16).

ANNOUNCER: But what about our nation? Are we crying out to God for help?

SELTZ: I think that's the real question. We've got immense challenges in our nation. But, it is important to know that even here, even now, God is still mightily at work and there are many who are still turning to God for answers. I know the studies and statistics have been painting a bleak picture of the Christian Church in the United States and Canada, but the same Spirit of God is alive and well.

ANNOUNCER: That's a good point; but wouldn't you also say there are some big obstacles though?

SELTZ: Of course. Each nation, region, and community has its own obstacles. I think in the West, we're struggling with a long list of challenges: materialism distracts us from what is important, giving people kind of a false feeling of contentment; post-modern philosophy causes people to doubt truth and so they become cynical about everything. And then, of course, with all the stuff we have there's this narcissistic individualism that leads people to focus selfishly on ourselves and not even consider the things of God. So, I find that people feel more overwhelmed today with everything, causing a hopelessness amidst abundant blessings.

ANNOUNCER: And once you miss that purpose of life that's found in Christ, it's easy to become apathetic and complacent.

SELTZ: Yeah, it sure is. Some of the worst tendencies of people come out when they have all that they want and they still aren't satisfied. Unfortunately, that can affect Christians, forgiven sinners, too.

ANNOUNCER: Any examples of that?

SELTZ: Sure, the church even becomes embroiled sometimes in infighting at the brink of harvest. Or, our faithful confession as Christians can become tainted by immorality, racism, and meanness. We've all got to be on our guard not to get in God's way even among us and through us. We always need to remember that we too are forgiven sinners, even broken healers, and we are bearers of Christ's news alone!

ANNOUNCER: And would you say that's why the church seems to be developing more slowly here?

SELTZ: I believe that it could be. In fact, our wealth and prosperity, which are blessings from God, can be a distraction to His eternal riches of grace in Christ. And, I also believe there are times and seasons for the movement of the Holy Spirit. So, let's prayerfully realize that these challenges exist everywhere, and certain challenges arise at certain times in every nation's life, but, amidst it all, our calling is clear in all those places. With love for our neighbors, we preach "Christ Crucified" the power of God for all who believe. Today's opportunity is tomorrow's harvest; today's harvest brings unique challenges too.

ANNOUNCER: So, in closing, let's rejoice in all that our faithful God is doing all around the world.

SELTZ: Yes, with that joyful spirit, let's see what God can still do with us here in this place too. I talk about it all the time; lets learn to be ourselves, graced people in Jesus, for others, people who strive to live graciously where God has planted them!

ANNOUNCER: And, let's see what God can do with us!

SELTZ: Indeed!

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.

"Love Divine, All Loves Excelling" arr. Henry Gerike. Used by permission.

"Hail, O Source of Every Blessing" From The Concordia Organist (© 2009 Concordia Publishing House)

"O Wondrous Type! O Vision Fair" From The Concordia Organist (© 2009 Concordia Publishing House)

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660 Mason Ridge Center Dr.
St. Louis, MO 63141
1-800-876-9880

prayer request from Shawn Jaeger

Please pray for Brian Wielms and the Wielms family as they recently lost their house in a fire.

Tickets still available For steak dinner and auction

There are still quite a few tickets available for the auction on Saturday night. $25 a piece. Come and enjoy some great food, fellowship, and deals on lots of good stuff!

Men's breakfast NEXT Saturday, February 14 @ 8am

Mark your calendars and make plans to attend men's breakfast next Saturday, February 14. We will have biscuits and gravy and a couple of us will be making egg bakes (casseroles).

Our topic will be "What does the Bible say about the separation of Church and State?"

We will be talking about the role, or what should be the lack of a role the government plays in the affairs of the church, but also how Christians, who know God's will, should be active in the affairs of the state as well, so that God's will is done on earth as it is in heaven.

Please rsvp to let me know you will be joining us.

Devotion and News: Thursday, February 5, 2015

Daily Devotions from Lutheran Hour Ministries
By Pastor Ken Klaus, Speaker Emeritus of The Lutheran Hour

Use these devotions in your newsletter and bulletin! Used by permission; all rights reserved by the Int'l LLL (LHM).

"Don't Miss the Party"
February 5, 2015

Now this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds. They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. Ephesians 4:17-18
Great Britain's five-year-old Alex Nash is a popular guy.

Being popular and getting invited to places can be a good thing unless you find yourself being asked to go to too many places. That was the situation for Nash.

Nash was invited and accepted an offer to attend a friend's birthday party at a ski and snowboard center. It was to be quite the production. But Nash is a popular guy, and he was also asked to spend some time, the same time, with his grandparents. It was a tough choice, but eventually time with the grandparents won out.

Nash ended up missing the birthday party with his pal. Normally, that would be the end of the story, but this is hardly a normal story.

A few days after the party had taken place, Nash's dad, Derek, received a letter, which included a bill for $24. It took Nash a while to figure out his son was being charged for not having gone to his buddy's birthday party. It seems the folks throwing the party had to pay $24 for non-showing Nash. They didn't mind paying his price for admission if he had come, but they were pretty upset for having to pay for him not showing.

You know, I think maybe Jesus feels the same way.

He came into this world to rescue us from sin, death and devil. To that end He lived His life, He suffered, and was crucified. It was a tremendous price to pay, but He was willing to do it so heaven might be filled with saved and forgiven sinners.

Jesus gave His all so we might be invited and received into that never-ending heavenly party.

Sadly, there are people who aren't going to be there. You may even know some of them. They are the ones whose understanding is darkened; who are ignorant of the life Jesus wishes to give them; whose hearts are hard and unreceptive to the risen Redeemer and the Holy Spirit's call.

It is a sad picture, and it is also a picture that will not last forever.

The day is coming when Jesus will stop calling. The day is coming when He will move away from these lost souls, and the time of salvation will be over. The day is coming when those who wanted to live without Jesus will be granted that wish, and they will live forever without Him.

That's tragic, and it is also why you and I, our Synod, and Lutheran Hour Ministries must continue to do all we can so Jesus may gain admission to those hearts.

THE PRAYER: Dear Lord, I give thanks for Jesus' sacrifice and His invitation to forgiveness and salvation. May others join us in believing and allow the Savior to come in. In Jesus' Name I ask it. Amen.

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YESTERDAY"S QUIZ: Which tribe did God choose to be priests forever? Levites (Pat King pointed out that now it is Christians who have been counted as part of the nation of Israel and the tribe of Levi through faith. Thanks Pat)

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TODAY'S QUIZ: What was the total number of all the men 20 years old and older who were able to serve in the army during the time of the first census?

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CALENDAR:

Thurs- Alzheimers support group 1pm; karate 5:30-7:30; Praise Band practice 6-8

Sat- Worship 5pm; STEAK DINNER AND AUCTION  DOORS OPEN AT 5; SUPPER STARTS AT 6!!
Sun- Worship 8:30; Sunday school 9:45; Worship 11
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WORSHIP WORKERS:
Acolyte- 8:30- Hailey Blechle, 11- Ian Brunson
Ushers- Figura family
Altar- Set up- Terry McKenzie; Clean Up- Wanda Turnure
Communion Assistants- Sat- Randy Fischer; 8:30- Don Turnure; 11- Steve McDowell
Greeters- 8:30- Lew and Dianne Feldkamp 11- Steve and Katie McDowell
Lay readers- Sat- Kathy Fischer  8:30- Amber Vossen; 11- Steve McDowell
Sat Pianist- Barb Dreyer

Organist: Melissa Pedersen

Projectionists: Sat- Tony and Sandra Perricone; Sun 8:30- Zack Hoelscher; 11- Hannah Johnson
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NEWS:

STEAK DINNER AND AUCTION THIS SATURDAY!!! DOORS OPEN AT 5;!! DINNER STARTS AT 6!!

Get your tickets today by calling Christy Winn at 314-479-5543

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THE CHOIR NEEDS YOU FOR LENT AND ESPECIALLY HOLY WEEK!!!

The choir is preparing a cantata for Holy Week and Easter. Parts of it will be presented at 3 different services (Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday and Easter Sunday). It would be wonderful to have some additional voices. If you enjoy singing, please consider joining the choir from now until Easter. You will be blessed by it! Rehearsals are on Wednesdays from 7:00-8:30 in the balcony.

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VOLUNTEER NEEDED TO BE LUTHERANS FOR LIFE REPRESENTATIVE FOR ST. JOHN'S

Lutheran for Life is an organization that supports and defends life at ALL STAGES from the moment of conception to the last breath. Every life matters. There is a chapter of LFL in St Charles County of which we re a part. They are in need of someone to be the contact person and liaison from our congregation. Denise Schlesselmann was, but since she is in the Czech Republic she is unable to right now.

All it requires is an email address and a phone number at which you can receive information and then relay that information to our congregation.

They are hosting a breakfast for all of our board members and church contacts on February 21st at Caleco's Bar and Grill in St. Peters. They will be saying thank you as well as sharing many exciting things that we have in the works for this year.

One thing that they are talking about right now is that they have money available for those who are thinking about or are in the process of adoption. It is a great organization with A LOT to offer!

Please let me know if you are interested and I can give you more info.

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BIBLE STUDY DATE AT HENDERSHOTS CHANGED

Bible study at the Hendershots house will be on February 20 and not the 13th as it says on the calendar.

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ONE MORE FOOD, FAITH, AND FAMILY NIGHT NEXT MONDAY AT 6PM!!

Italian night next Monday! Bring your favorite Italian dish to share. We'd love to see you!! It's a fun time! Please join us!

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NEW ELDER GROUPS HAVE BEEN FORMED

The person assigned to be your elder may have changed!! New lists will be posted asap. If you need to know who your elder is before they are posted, call the church office.

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BLUE ENVELOPES

When using the blue offering envelopes for either the Building fund or the DCE fund, please mark them accordingly. There have been some mix ups recently.

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A NEW ST JOHN'S YELLOW PAGES TO BE PUT TOGETHER

We are attempting to collect your business cards and print them in the monthly newsletter as advertising. It will be free to member businesses. Many times members call and ask if there are members in the congregation that are in a certain business or profession. People would rather do business with a church family member if possible. Bring your cards to the church office asap as we will start this with the March newsletter.

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SPECIAL CONCERT ON THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19 @ 6PM!!

The Garms family, a southern gospel music group from Minnesota (I know the two don't go together, but you gotta hear them!!), will be at St. John's on Thursday evening February 19th at 6pm! It is a family of eight with wonderful voices and a tremendous desire to share the love of the Lord in music! Mark your calendars right now to come on out for a night of music!!

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CONTRIBUTION STATEMENTS ARE IN YOUR CHURCH MAILBOXES!!

Make sure you get them and use them for tax purposes, but also to take stock in how much you gave versus how much you had decided in your heart to give last year!

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YOU CAN BRIGHTEN UP THE SANCTUARY ON SUNDAY MORNINGS!!!

Altar flowers are a wonderful way to share joy at a birthday or anniversary or to honor someone's memory! Altar flowers are $25. Call Marilyn if you'd like to brighten up the church and honor someone you love at the same time! 456-2888!! Or you can sign up on the flower chart in the narthex located on the bulletin board.

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PRAYER REQUESTS:

For CLAIRE JOHNSON who is dealing with a large mass on her lung and is having great difficulty breathing.

For ROSETTA JONES who is recovering from a fall and a broken collar bone.

For WILMA WEIGLE as she continues to deal with many health problems relating from a stroke.

For DANIELLE MEINE, a senior at WHS, a friend to many kids at St. john's, and a rider on Karin's bus since kindergarten, who has a very serious form of cancer.

For ELTON TEMME, Harold Temme and Lois Frick's brother, who has had many seizures and is dealing with many other health problems.

For DENISE SCHLESSELMANN as she continues to work hard to bring the people of the Czech Republic to Christ. .

For TODD PONDER, former band teacher/director and friend to many at St. John's, who suffered a massive stroke and can't do anything but move his eyes. He is unable to breathe on his own. Here is a link to a fund that was started to help the family as they will have astronomical hospital and rehab bills for a long time to come. At the bottom of the page it also has updates as to his progress. http://www.gofundme.com/hp1ed8?pc=mb_em

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5K Walk/Run

There will be a 5K Walk/Run again before the Warren Cou ty Health Fair begins on March 28, 2015.

Attached is a flyer with all the details.

Please post/pass on.

Thank you!

Peggy Privett

Warren County Health Dept.

636-456-7474 fax 636-456-4966

Statement of Confidentiality: The information contained in this message may be privileged and confidential and protected from disclosure. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or an employee or agent responsible for delivering this message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by replying to the sender. Thank you.

Lutherans for Life Money Available for those who want to adopt children

You may remember a couple years ago when Lutherans for Life had an initiative called "Adoption Initiative Fundraiser" to raise money for couples who have applied to an adoption agency with hopes of adopting a child. They raised over $30,000. There is still money left. If you are thinking of adopting a child or are even currently in the process of it, or you know someone who is and could use financial aid for this costly process, please call Delores Desemone at 636-447-3133 or Glenda Kramer at 636-978-5993 to let them know you are interested ad to ask questions.

God's blessings on your day!
Pastor

Devotion and News: Wednesday, February 4, 2015

ST. JOHN'S MISSION STATEMENT
As the body of Christ, we strive to make disciples of all, focusing on the next generation, through growing...
UP in God's Word and Sacrament
OUT into the community by caring for physical and spiritual need
TOGETHER in fellowship to build lasting relationships in Christ
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SERMON FROM 2/1/15. Share it with someone you think may need to hear it!
http://youtu.be/h1hoZaQuQkk
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DEVOTION: Numbers 3:11-13¹¹And the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, ¹²"Behold, I have taken the Levites from among the people of Israel instead of every firstborn who opens the womb among the people of Israel. The Levites shall be mine, ¹³for all the firstborn are mine. On the day that I struck down all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, I consecrated for my own all the firstborn in Israel, both of man and of beast. They shall be mine: I am the Lord."

People often asked me "What made you decide to become a pastor?" There's all different sorts of ways to answer that, but the most important one that I don't think I ever used but that I probably will use from now on is that God made me do it. He chose me to do it. From eighth grade on I always thought it would be cool to be a pastor. Not that pastors are cool, far from it, they are often the nerdiest dorks there are. But I guess I always thought that I would like to be a pastor. And from reading the passage above I guess you could say that God put that thought in my head because he had chosen me to do it even before I was born.

God didn't choose the Levites because they were the best suited, or because there was the right amount of them at the time, or because they were the best speakers, or because they were better than the other tribes. He just chose them because he wanted them to do it!

I'm certainly not bragging when I say that God chose me. Look at this passage from 1 Corinthians 1:27-28. ²⁷But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; ²⁸God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are ²⁹so that no human being^[a] might boast in the presence of God.

I am also not saying that pastors are anything special either. They are not more important or more necessary than any other position/ gift in the church. Read these verses from 1 Corinthians 12:27-31 ²⁷Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. ²⁸And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues. ²⁹Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? ³⁰Do all possess gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? ³¹But earnestly desire the higher gifts. And then He goes on to say in chapter 13 that "The greatest of these is LOVE."

God has chosen you too, not because you are anything special, or because you are a Lutheran, or because you are more pious than others. God simply chose you because he loves you and he wants you to experience his love in some very meaningful ways, whether that be as a parent, a spouse, a church worker, an encourager, a prayer warrior, a volunteer, a miracle worker, an administrator, a helper.

Earnestly desire these greater gifts of the Spirit so that you may experience the Spirit's love as you give it to others in these ways and as you bild up his, and your family, the church!

Prayer: Lord, that you for choosing me for works of service. Make me ot do them according to your will that I may experience your love at work today. Amen.

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YESTERDAY"S QUIZ: What kind of bull did it need to be in order to be considered worthy of sacrifice? It depends on what type of offering is being made. If it's a "burnt offering" a male without blemish (Lev.1, 3) or "sin offering" (Lev. 4, 3). If it's a "peace offering" it can be a male or female from the herd (Lev. 3, 1). Thanks Jim Rahn

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TODAY'S QUIZ: Which tribe did God choose to be priests forever?

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CALENDAR:

Wed- Choir 7pm
Thurs- Alzheimers support group 1pm; karate 5:30-7:30; Praise Band practice 6-8

Sat- Worship 5pm
Sun- Worship 8:30; Sunday school 9:45; Worship 11
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WORSHIP WORKERS:
Acolyte- 8:30- Hailey Blechle, 11- Ian Brunson
Ushers- Figura family
Altar- Set up- Terry McKenzie; Clean Up- Wanda Turnure
Communion Assistants- Sat- Randy Fischer; 8:30- Don Turnure; 11- Steve McDowell
Greeters- 8:30- Lew and Dianne Feldkamp 11- Steve and Katie McDowell
Lay readers- Sat- Kathy Fischer 8:30- Amber Vossen; 11- Steve McDowell
Sat Pianist- Barb Dreyer

Organist: Melissa Pedersen

VOLUNTEER NEEDED TO BE LUTHERANS FOR LIFE REPRESENTATIVE FOR ST. JOHN'S

Lutheran for Life is an organization that supports and defends life at ALL STAQES from the moment of conception to the last breath. Every life matters. There is a chapter of LFL in St Charles County of which we re a part. They are in need of someone to be the contact person and liaison from our congregation. Denise Schlesselmann was, but since she is in the Czech Republic she is unable to right now.

All it requires is an email address and a phone number at which you can receive information and then relay that information to our congregation.

One thing that they are talking about right now is that they have money available for those who are thinking about or are in the process of adoption. It is a great organization with A LOT to offer!

Please let me know if you are interested and I can give you more info.

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THE CHOIR NEEDS YOU FOR LENT AND ESPECIALLY HOLY WEEK!!!

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BIBLE STUDY DATE AT HENDERSHOTS CHANGED

Bible study at the Hendershots house will be on February 20 and not the 13th as it says on the calendar.

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ONE MORE FOOD, FAITH, AND FAMILY NIGHT NEXT MONDAY AT 6PM!!

Italian night next Monday! Bring your favorite Italian dish to share. We'd love to see you!! It's a fun time! Please join us!

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STEAK DINNER/AUCTION TICKETS ON SALE!!
Tickets are $25 a piece!! Raffle Tickets for the $500 drawing are also available. 1 ticket for $10 or 11 tickets for $20.

CALL THE CHURCH OFFICE TODAY TO GET YOUR TICKETS IF YOU HAVEN'T PURCHASED THEM YET!

It is always a BLAST!!! For years this event has become known as a great place to get good deals on things and help out our youth program at the same time!!

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NEW ELDER GROUPS HAVE BEEN FORMED

The person assigned to be your elder may have changed!! New lists will be posted asap. If you need to know who your elder is before they are posted, call the church office.

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BLUE ENVELOPES

When using the blue offering envelopes for either the Building fund or the DCE fund, please mark them accordingly. There have been some mix ups recently.

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A NEW ST JOHN'S YELLOW PAGES TO BE PUT TOGETHER

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SPECIAL CONCERT ON THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19 @ 6PM!!

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CONTRIBUTION STATEMENTS ARE IN YOUR CHURCH MAILBOXES!!

Make sure you get them and use them for tax purposes, but also to take stock in how much you gave versus how much you had decided in your heart to give last year!

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YOU CAN BRIGHTEN UP THE SANCTUARY ON SUNDAY MORNINGS!!!

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PRAYER REQUESTS:

For CLAIRE JOHNSON who is dealing with a large mass on her lung and is having great difficulty breathing.

For ROSETTA JONES who is recovering from a fall and a broken collar bone.

For WILMA WEIGLE as she continues to deal with many health problems relating from a stroke.

For DANIELLE MEINE, a senior at WHS, a friend to many kids at St. john's, and a rider on Karin's bus since kindergarten, who has a very serious form of cancer.

For ELTON TEMME, Harold Temme and Lois Frick's brother, who has had many seizures and is dealing with many other health problems.

Devotion and News: Tuesday, February 3, 2015

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YESTERDAY"S QUIZ:
What is an ephod? An ephod is a sleeveless vestment worn by the high priest. Sometimes the word refers to an otherwise
unidentified object of worship. Detailed description is in Exodus 28 beginning in verse 6. Very beautiful, being
made with gold, and of blue, purple and scarlet yarn finely twisted linen, the work of a skilled craftsman.
Two onyx stones engraved with sons of Israel in the order of birth, 6 on each as a gem cutter engraves a seal.
Mount the stones in gold filigree settings and fasten on to the shoulder pieces of the ephod. Aaron is to bear
names on his shoulders as a memorial before the Lord. Make gold filigree settings and two braided chains of
pure gold, like a rope, and attach the chains to the settings. Thanks Dianne!

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TODAY'S QUIZ: What kind of bull did it need to be in order to be considered worthy of sacrifice?

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CALENDAR:

Tues- Quilting 9-2; Bible Study 11:30-12:15
Wed- Choir 7pm
Thurs- Alzheimers support group 1pm; karate 5:30-7:30; Praise Band practice 6-8
Sat- Worship 5pm
Sun- Worship 8:30; Sunday school 9:45; Worship 11
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
WORSHIP WORKERS:
Acolyte- 8:30- Hailey Blechle, 11- Ian Brunson
Ushers- Figura family
Altar- Set up- Terry McKenzie; Clean Up- Wanda Turnure
Communion Assistants- Sat- Randy Fischer; 8:30- Don Turnure; 11- Steve McDowell
Greeters- 8:30- Lew and Dianne Feldkamp 11- Steve and Katie McDowell
Lay readers- Sat- Kathy Fischer  8:30- Amber Vossen; 11- Steve McDowell
Sat Pianist- Barb Dreyer
Organist: Melissa Pedersen
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
NEWS:
VOLUNTEER NEEDED TO BE LUTHERANS FOR LIFE REPRESENTATIVE FOR ST. JOHN'S
Lutheran for Life is an organization that supports and defends life at ALL STAQES from the moment of conception to the last breath. Every life matters. There is a chapter of LFL in St Charles County of which we re a part. They are in need of someone to be the contact person and liaison from our congregation. Denise Schlesselmann was, but since she is in the Czech Republic she is unable to right now.

All it requires is an email address and a phone number at which you can receive information and then relay that information to our congregation.

They  are hosting a breakfast for all of our board members and church contacts on February 21st at Caleco's Bar and Grill in St. Peters. They will be saying thank you as well as sharing many exciting things that we have in the works for this year.

One thing that they are talking about right now is that they have money available for those who are thinking about or are in the process of adoption. It is a great organization with A LOT to offer!

Please let me know if you are interested and I can give you more info.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
THE CHOIR NEEDS YOU FOR LENT AND ESPECIALLY HOLY WEEK!!!
The choir is preparing a cantata for Holy Week and Easter. Parts of it will be presented at 3 different services (Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday and Easter Sunday). It would be wonderful to have some additional voices. If you enjoy singing, please consider joining the choir from now until Easter. You will be blessed by it! Rehearsals are on Wednesdays from 7:00-8:30 in the balcony.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________
BIBLE STUDY DATE AT HENDERSHOTS CHANGED
Bible study at the Hendershots house will be on February 20 and not the 13th as it says on the calendar.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
ONE MORE FOOD, FAITH, AND FAMILY NIGHT NEXT MONDAY AT 6PM!!
Italian night next Monday! Bring your favorite Italian dish to share. We'd love to see you!! It's a fun time! Please join us!
______________________________________________________________________________________________________
STEAK DINNER/AUCTION TICKETS ON SALE!!
Tickets are $25 a piece!! Raffle Tickets for the $500 drawing are also available.  1 ticket for $10 or 11 tickets for $20.

CALL THE CHURCH OFFICE TODAY TO GET YOUR TICKETS IF YOU HAVEN'T PURCHASED THEM YET!

It is always a BLAST!!!   For years this event has become known as a great place to get good deals on things and help out our youth program at the same time!!

______________________________________________________________________________________________
NEW ELDER GROUPS HAVE BEEN FORMED
The person assigned to be your elder may have changed!! New lists will be posted asap. If you need to know who your elder is before they are posted, call the church office.
______________________________________________________________________________________________
BLUE ENVELOPES
When using the blue offering envelopes for either the Building fund or the DCE fund, please mark them accordingly. There have been some mix ups recently.
________________________________________________________________________
A NEW ST JOHN'S YELLOW PAGES TO BE PUT TOGETHER
We are attempting to collect your business cards and print them in the monthly newsletter as advertising. It will be free to member businesses. Many times members call and ask if there are members in the congregation that are in a certain business or profession. People would rather do business with a church family member if possible. Bring your cards to the church office asap as we will start this with the March newsletter.
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SPECIAL CONCERT ON THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 19 @ 6PM!!
The Garms family, a southern gospel music group from Minnesota (I know the two don't go together, but you gotta hear them!!), will be at St. John's on Thursday evening February 19th at 6pm!   It is a family of eight with wonderful voices and a tremendous desire to share the love of the Lord in music! Mark your calendars right now to come on out for a night of music!!
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
CONTRIBUTION STATEMENTS ARE IN YOUR CHURCH MAILBOXES!!
Make sure you get them and use them for tax purposes, but also to take stock in how much you gave versus how much you had decided in your heart to give last year!
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
YOU CAN BRIGHTEN UP THE SANCTUARY ON SUNDAY MORNINGS!!!
Altar flowers are a wonderful way to share joy at a birthday or anniversary or to honor someone's memory! Altar flowers are $25. Call Marilyn if you'd like to brighten up the church and honor someone you love at the same time! 456-2888!! Or you can sign up on the flower chart in the narthex located on the bulletin board.
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PRAYER REQUESTS:

For CLAIRE JOHNSON who is dealing with a large mass on her lung and is having great difficulty breathing.

For ROSETTA JONES who is recovering from a fall and a broken collar bone.

For WILMA WEIGLE as she continues to deal with many health problems relating from a stroke.

For DANIELLE MEINE, a senior at WHS, a friend to many kids at St. john's, and a rider on Karin's bus since kindergarten, who has a very serious form of cancer.

For ELTON TEMME, Harold Temme and Lois Frick's brother, who has had many seizures and is dealing with many other health problems.

For DENISE SCHLESSELMANN as she continues to work hard to bring the people of the Czech Republic to Christ. .

For TODD PONDER, former band teacher/director and friend to many at St. John's, who suffered a massive stroke and can't do anything but move his eyes. He is unable to breathe on his own. Here is a link to a fund that was started to help the family as they will have astronomical hospital and rehab bills for a long time to come.   At the bottom of the page it also has updates as to his progress.  http://www.gofundme.com/hp1ed8?pc=mb_em

St. John's Lutheran Church
Warrenton, MO

Fwd: The Lutheran Hour: February 8, 2015

Sermon Text for February 8, 2015

"The Gospel's Power for Gracious Living" #82-23

prayer request from Shawn Jaeger

Tickets still available For steak dinner and auction

Men's breakfast NEXT Saturday, February 14 @ 8am

Devotion and News: Thursday, February 5, 2015

5K Walk/Run

Lutherans for Life Money Available for those who want to adopt children

Devotion and News: Wednesday, February 4, 2015

Devotion and News: Tuesday, February 3, 2015

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