prayer request from Donna Lindsey

-------- Original message --------

From: Donna Lindsey

Date:05/09/2014 8:18 PM (GMT-06:00)

To: Pastor Jeremy Klaustermeyer

Subject: prayer request

I would like to request prayers for the family of Ann Newell. Ann is the mother of my sister-in-law, Amy Verseman. Ann passed away on Thursday, May 8. 

Thanks,

Donna Lindsey

Prayer request from Mim Dunn

-------- Original message --------

From: MILDRED

Date:05/09/2014 10:00 AM (GMT-06:00)

To: revklaus@hotmail.com

Subject: prayer chain

Please pray For Niki, a friend of Mim Dunn, who has cancer.   THANKS

Garage sale to benefit Agape!!!

 

The Women’s Fire Auxiliary is going to have a garage sale this weekend at the old firehouse on South 47 and Lakeview.  Their proceeds are going to be donated to the Agape Food fund.  The sale will be this Friday from 4-8pm and Saturday 7am-1pm. 

 

Please spread the word about the sale.  It will only be held on one day.  Please let everyone know that you can think of.  If you know anyone in that group, please thank them for us.

 

Thanks!!!!

 

Thursday, May 8, 2014

DEVOTION: The Lord said, "Go out and stand in the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by."  Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountain apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind.  After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake.  After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire.  And after the fire came a gentle whisper.  When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave....  The Story, 207

Everyone wants flashy exciting stuff these days.  It often seems that louder is better.  When I was a teenager that was certainly true.  I liked to listen to Guns and Roses and Mettalicca really loud.  I liked light shows and big bangs.  It was exciting! 
 
Then I got older and more sensible and realized that not everything that is good has to be flashy, loud, and exciting too.  I like quietness.  IN fact, the quieter the better most of the time.  I can think better when there is quiet.  I can hear better when there isn't so much noise. 
 
Our Lord God knows this.  Sometimes he reveals his presence and power in big flashy ways, like at the Mount of Transfiguration, but most of the time he spoke softly when dealing with people, as in the woman at the well, the ten lepers, Peter, and so many others.  How many times do we read about Jesus trying to get away from the crowds?  Jesus wanted to be heard more than seen, and the way to be truly heard was to speak with gentleness and care.  Very seldom do we really hear someone who is constantly yelling. 
 
God speaks to us in thousands of little whispers through His Word. As we hear it, study, learn it, memorize it, and take it to heart, our Lord speaks to us through it.  He speaks words of law, when we need to know our sinfulness, and he speaks words of Gospel clearly and constantly when we need to hear that. 
 
How is God speaking to you today?  He probably isn't using flashy gimmicks and loud noises.  He is always using His Word.  I urge you to listen when He speaks!  Read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest it into your soul so that He may truly give you the peace you need and desire. 
 
Prayer:  Lord God, give us Your Word in whatever way You think best so that we can truly hear it and it will change us.  Amen.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
YESTERDAY'S QUIZ  What was Ahab's wife name and where did she come from?  All I wanted was the name nad where she is from....
 
Here is Pat King's answer:

This one is easy! Jezebel was the daughter of King Ethbaal, King of Tyre (Phoenicia). She married Ahab, supported the worship of baal and asherah, and erected shrines to them – thus royally ticking off God. Who’d guessed it! That little thing called the 1st Commandment – well that was just some scribbles on a stone. Nothing Ahab and Jez needed to worry about.

Anyway, after having fun torturing God’s prophets and generally leading the Northern Kingdom astray, she ended up getting eaten by dogs. Whereupon her name was changed to Kibble ‘n Bits. (A little known fact, which I have generously shared with you!)

BTW, her ratty daughter, Athaliah, married a Judean king, Jehoram – the guy whose guts fell out & who had killed his brothers in order to get the throne. Her oldest son croaked and her youngest, Ahaziah, was king for about a year. He was killed while on a military thingie with his uncle, up in the Northern Kingdom. Mom held a Coup d'État, and offed all the grandkids – thus stealing the throne. She reigned for about 6 years, when the Jewish High Priest – who’d been secretly hiding one of the grandson’s – revealed him and deposed her. BTW, this priest was married to one of Jehoram’s daughters – a 1st – who was the one who snuck the baby out of the palace while her step-mother was slaughtering the harem and other kids.

And people say the Bible is boring!
_____________________________________________________________________________
TODAY'S QUIZ: How did Elijah eat in the wilderness when he ran away from Ahab?

_________________________________________________________________________________

CALENDAR:
Sat- Basement reserved 10-3; Bible study 4; worship 5
Sun- Mother's Day; worship 8:30; Sunday school and Bible class 9:45; worship 11
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
WORSHIP WORKERS FOR THIS WEEK
Acolytes- 8:30- Dustin Toedebusch  11- John Pezold
Altar guild- Set up- Linda Callies; Clean Up- John and Joanne Hachtel
Greeters- 8:30- Coleen Bottorff 11- Joan Sexton
Communion Assistants- Sat- Rich Talbert; 8:30- Rich Boeger; 11- Dave Winter
Lay Readers- Sat- Marcia Sevier; 8:30- Tim Linke;  11am- Ian Brunson
8:30 Ushers- Scott Heitgerd, Tom Linke, Alex Heitgerd, Bob Linke
Projectors- Sat- Pam Bueltmann, 8:30- Terry McKenzie, 11- Emily Brunson
Sat pianist- Kathy Barrow
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
NEWS:
MEN'S BREAKFAST THIS SATURDAY AT 8am!!
Come for the great food:  biscuits, sausage gravy, sausage, scrambled eggs, fruit!!
 
Stay for the Bible study and fellowship!!
 
Please let me know if you are coming!!
______________________________________________________________________________________________
FALL MEN'S RETREAT IS SET
WHEN:  Friday- Sunday SEPT. 26-28
WHERE: Mark Twain Lake at Si Colburn Group Camp
WHAT: The theme is "Amazing Grace"
HOW MUCH: $45 for registration, housing, food, and attendance prizes; $30 for golf, $15 if you want to stay up there Thursday night; everything else on your own
Accommodations:  Group cabins, (if you are a light sleeper you may want ear plugs or you may want to bring your camper/tent), You can also rent a room at the hotel in town about 5 miles away.
Please let me know of your desire to attend. 
_______________________________________________________________________________________
TRUSTEES HAVE SCHEDULED A WORK DAY FOR SATURDAY, MAY 17!!!
List of projects:
1. finishing trim on front door
2. Fixing partition between overflow and sanctuary
3. Addressing drainage issues
4. Painting
5. Other
They have also established a volunteer list.  Id you wish to tackle a project at another time, see the list posted on the bulletin board across from church office.

________________________________________________________________________

T-SHIRTS FOR SALE!!!

Wonderful blaze orange t-shirts are for sale for $10 a piece to help support our board of outreach and evangelism's efforts and to raise money to provide for those in need.  Pick up your size today and put your $10 in the box provided!!!  They are located in the narthex (entry way) of church upstairs.

___________________________________________________________________________

THE STORY: CHAPTER 15 "God's Messengers" IS THIS WEEK!!!

It is the stories of Elijah and Elisha and how they were given the task of proclaiming God's judgment upon the Kings of Israel. 

 

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
JUST A FEW SPACES LEFT IN THE THREE YEAR OLD LITTLE LAMBS CLASS FOR NEXT YEAR!!

The four year old class is full and there is a waiting list that people can get on if they wish. 

 

The three year old class still has several spaces available.  If you know of someone or you would like to get your own child in to this class please call the church office asap!!! 

______________________________________________________________________________________________________
TWO GROUP TRAVEL EVENTS COMING UP THIS YEAR!!
October 4--A DAY IN ST. LOUIS--  We will tour places that are hidden gems in St. Louis
 
December 6-- CATHOLIC RECTORY IN HERMANN AND POSSIBLY A CHRISTMAS SHOW IN OSAGE BEACH
 
Let Marilyn know if you are interested in either of these trip so she can make definite plans.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
PASTOR NEEDS SPONSORS FOR HIS BIKE ACROSS KANSAS!!
I will be biking across part of Kansas, about 220 miles in all, on June 7-9 to raise money for Leadachild.org.  Lead a Child is a LCMS recognized service organization that provides funding for kids to attend schools, many of them Christian schools, in third world countries.  It has provided A LOT for ministries and missions to help kids who would otherwise have NO EDUCATION in places like Guatemala, Kenya, Uganda, Mexico, and many other places.  Please consider supporting me so that we can continue to support children throughout the world!  As of January 1, I am also on the board of directors for this organization.


___________________________________________________________________________________________
PRAYER REQUESTS:  (If you have a prayer request please reply to this email or call me at 636-359-1061)

For LIBBY PAILER, who has been dealing with bronchitis and pneumonia for several weeks now.

 

For BEN FRICK, who has also been dealing with pneumonia and weakness for the last two weeks at least.

 

For EMOGENE FRYANT, friend of Marv and Molly Hendershot, who has been place on hospice care.

 

For CHERI VERME, daughter of Lil WInter, who is suffering from severe osteoporosis and has a cracked pelvis (all the way across her pelvis) because of it.

 

For FRAN WAGNER, a good friend of Sandy Robine, who has been placed on hospice care.

 

For TRICIA MEYER, who is dealing with ovarian cancer.  She is a friend of many in our congregation.

 

For KELSEY OVERBECK as she finishes up her schooling at Concordia, Seward and moves to Warrenton to become our DCE intern. 

THOSE WITH CANCER, especially RICK SPINIOLAS, and the many others among our family and friends who are struggling with cancer.

Soda machine needs fixing

Does anyone know how to fix a soda machine or know someone who knows how to fix them.  Ours is not working properly and needs some maintenance.  Let me know. 
 
Thanks,
Pastor

Men's Breakfast this Saturday at 8am!!

Monthly men's breakfast is at 8am this Saturday!  Biscuits, sausage gravy, sausage patties, scrambled eggs and fruit!
 
We will finish our video study of "How We Got the Bible". 
 
Come and join us and bring a friend  or your son!  Just let me know if you are coming!  (If you already have let me know, you don't have to do it again.)

Wednesday, May 7, 2014

DEVOTION: He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die.  "I have had enough, Lord," he said.  "Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors."  Then he lay down under the bush and fell asleep.  The Story, p. 207
 
Sometimes life gets the best of us, and all we want to do is lie down and die.  When you lose a loved one, when you ruin a relationship, when you find out you have a terrible illness, when you lose your job, and in so many other instances, life just doesn't seem worth living anymore.  You just want to quit fighting and leave it all behind. 
 
Imagine Elijah.  He was sent by God to proclaim judgment upon King Ahab.  He did what he was supposed to do and Ahab rejected him.  Elijah defeated the prophets of Baal in a standoff and instead of surrendering to the will of the Lord, Ahab and Jezebel doubled down and vowed to hunt down and kill Elijah.  Elijah couldn't win.  He ran away, went a day's journey into the wilderness, and sat down under a tree exhausted and done.  He was simply ready to die. 
 
That's when the Lord stepped in.  He sent an angel to wake Elijah up and feed him with both physical and spiritual food.  He wouldn't let him quit, but instead gave him everything he needed to make it the rest of the way.  The Holy Spirit literally became Elijah's strength and power. 
 
Maybe you are at that point yourself.  Maybe you have been beaten down by the world and even by your own sin and failures.  Maybe you just want to lay down and die.  It is at these times that the saying is true, "When we are weak then He is strong."  When we are broken and just plain done then the Lord God has free course to take over and make His power known.  Then He can really get to work in your life and do some amazing things. 
 
Prayer:  Lord God, break us so that you can do Your will in and through us.  Amen.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________
YESTERDAY'S QUIZ  What did Elijah do (or have done) to the prophets of Baal?  He had them seized and killed.
____________________________________________________________________________
TODAY'S QUIZ: What was Ahab's wife name and where did she come from?
_____________________________________________________________________________
CALENDAR:
Wed- Jonesburg NH worship 10:30; Choir 7
Sat- Basement reserved 10-3; Bible study 4; worship 5
Sun- Mother's Day; worship 8:30; Sunday school and Bible class 9:45; worship 11
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
WORSHIP WORKERS FOR THIS WEEK
Acolytes- 8:30- Dustin Toedebusch  11- John Pezold
Altar guild- Set up- Linda Callies; Clean Up- John and Joanne Hachtel
Greeters- 8:30- Coleen Bottorff 11- Joan Sexton
Communion Assistants- Sat- Rich Talbert; 8:30- Rich Boeger; 11- Dave Winter
Lay Readers- Sat- Marcia Sevier; 8:30- Tim Linke;  11am- Ian Brunson
8:30 Ushers- Scott Heitgerd, Tom Linke, Alex Heitgerd, Bob Linke
Projectors- Sat- Pam Bueltmann, 8:30- Terry McKenzie, 11- Emily Brunson
Sat pianist- Kathy Barrow
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
NEWS:
MEN'S BREAKFAST THIS SATURDAY AT 8am!!
Come for the great food:  biscuits, sausage gravy, sausage, scrambled eggs, fruit!!
 
Stay for the Bible study and fellowship!!
 
Please let me know if you are coming!!
______________________________________________________________________________________________
FALL MEN'S RETREAT IS SET
WHEN:  Friday- Sunday SEPT. 26-28
WHERE: Mark Twain Lake at Si Colburn Group Camp
WHAT: The theme is "Amazing Grace"
HOW MUCH: $45 for registration, housing, food, and attendance prizes; $30 for golf, $15 if you want to stay up there Thursday night; everything else on your own
Accommodations:  Group cabins, (if you are a light sleeper you may want ear plugs or you may want to bring your camper/tent), You can also rent a room at the hotel in town about 5 miles away.
Please let me know of your desire to attend. 
_______________________________________________________________________________________
TRUSTEES HAVE SCHEDULED A WORK DAY FOR SATURDAY, MAY 17!!!
List of projects:
1. finishing trim on front door
2. Fixing partition between overflow and sanctuary
3. Addressing drainage issues
4. Painting
5. Other
They have also established a volunteer list.  Id you wish to tackle a project at another time, see the list posted on the bulletin board across from church office.

________________________________________________________________________

T-SHIRTS FOR SALE!!!

Wonderful blaze orange t-shirts are for sale for $10 a piece to help support our board of outreach and evangelism's efforts and to raise money to provide for those in need.  Pick up your size today and put your $10 in the box provided!!!  They are located in the narthex (entry way) of church upstairs.

___________________________________________________________________________

THE STORY: CHAPTER 15 "God's Messengers" IS THIS WEEK!!!

It is the stories of Elijah and Elisha and how they were given the task of proclaiming God's judgment upon the Kings of Israel. 

 

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
JUST A FEW SPACES LEFT IN THE THREE YEAR OLD LITTLE LAMBS CLASS FOR NEXT YEAR!!

The four year old class is full and there is a waiting list that people can get on if they wish. 

 

The three year old class still has several spaces available.  If you know of someone or you would like to get your own child in to this class please call the church office asap!!! 

______________________________________________________________________________________________________
TWO GROUP TRAVEL EVENTS COMING UP THIS YEAR!!
October 4--A DAY IN ST. LOUIS--  We will tour places that are hidden gems in St. Louis
 
December 6-- CATHOLIC RECTORY IN HERMANN AND POSSIBLY A CHRISTMAS SHOW IN OSAGE BEACH
 
Let Marilyn know if you are interested in either of these trip so she can make definite plans.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
PASTOR NEEDS SPONSORS FOR HIS BIKE ACROSS KANSAS!!
I will be biking across part of Kansas, about 220 miles in all, on June 7-9 to raise money for Leadachild.org.  Lead a Child is a LCMS recognized service organization that provides funding for kids to attend schools, many of them Christian schools, in third world countries.  It has provided A LOT for ministries and missions to help kids who would otherwise have NO EDUCATION in places like Guatemala, Kenya, Uganda, Mexico, and many other places.  Please consider supporting me so that we can continue to support children throughout the world!  As of January 1, I am also on the board of directors for this organization.


___________________________________________________________________________________________
PRAYER REQUESTS:  (If you have a prayer request please reply to this email or call me at 636-359-1061)

For LIBBY PAILER, who has been dealing with bronchitis and pneumonia for several weeks now.

 

For BEN FRICK, who has also been dealing with pneumonia and weakness for the last two weeks at least.

 

For EMOGENE FRYANT, friend of Marv and Molly Hendershot, who has been place on hospice care.

 

For CHERI VERME, daughter of Lil WInter, who is suffering from severe osteoporosis and has a cracked pelvis (all the way across her pelvis) because of it.

 

For FRAN WAGNER, a good friend of Sandy Robine, who has been placed on hospice care.

 

For TRICIA MEYER, who is dealing with ovarian cancer.  She is a friend of many in our congregation.

 

For KELSEY OVERBECK as she finishes up her schooling at Concordia, Seward and moves to Warrenton to become our DCE intern. 

THOSE WITH CANCER, especially RICK SPINIOLAS, and the many others among our family and friends who are struggling with cancer.

newsletter from Denise Schlesselman

A newsletter from our soon to be missionary, Denise Schlesselman.

Tuesday, May 6, 2014

DEVOTION:  There was continual warfare between Rehoboam and Jeroboam.....  There was war between Abijah and Jeroboam throughout Abijah's lifetime..... There was war between Asa and Baasha king of Israel throughout their reigns.   pp. 199-200
 
Solomon had foreign wives, 700 of them to exact, even though the Lord specifically told him not to.  Back in those days foreign meant unbeliever and idol worshiper as well.  Those wives turned his heart away from the Lord just as He said.  
 
The consequence for that sin was that the kingdom would be taken away from him but not in his lifetime.  It would happen during the time of his son.  God kept that promise as he always does.  And that consequence kept coming generation after generation all the way up to this present day. 
 
Idol worship and worship of false gods is no little matter.  It will cost lives!  It will cost the ruin of nations.  It will cost eternal life for many.  That worship doesn't just come in the form of false religions, but it also comes in putting other things in front of and as more important than God.  It comes when we think of money as being more important.  It comes when we think that doing other things instead of worshiping God on Saturday night or Sunday morning is the way to go.  It comes when anything becomes more important and more worthy of our time and attention than God the Father Almighty, the Son, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. 
 
It may be time to realign your life today!  It may be time to make some tough decisions to get your life back on track.   Take your service to and worship of God seriously.  It is a life and death matter!

Prayer:  Lord God, help me to take you seriously!  Help me to keep from putting you in second and third place.  Be first in my life all day every day!  Amen.
 
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
YESTERDAY'S QUIZ  Where was Elijah from?  Tishbe in Gilead
______________________________________________________________________________________
TODAY'S QUIZ: What did Elijah do (or have done) to the prophets of Baal?
____________________________________________________________________________
CALENDAR:
Tues- Quilters 9; Bible study 11:30
Wed- Jonesburg NH worship 10:30; Choir 7
Sat- Basement reserved 10-3; Bible study 4; worship 5
Sun- Mother's Day; worship 8:30; Sunday school and Bible class 9:45; worship 11
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
WORSHIP WORKERS FOR THIS WEEK
Acolytes- 8:30- Dustin Toedebusch  11- John Pezold
Altar guild- Set up- Linda Callies; Clean Up- John and Joanne Hachtel
Greeters- 8:30- Coleen Bottorff 11- Joan Sexton
Communion Assistants- Sat- Rich Talbert; 8:30- Rich Boeger; 11- Dave Winter
Lay Readers- Sat- Marcia Sevier; 8:30- Tim Linke;  11am- Ian Brunson
8:30 Ushers- Scott Heitgerd, Tom Linke, Alex Heitgerd, Bob Linke
Projectors- Sat- ????, 8:30- Terry McKenzie, 11- Emily Brunson
Sat pianist- Kathy Barrow
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
NEWS:
MEN'S BREAKFAST THIS SATURDAY AT 8am!!
Come for the great food:  biscuits, sausage gravy, sausage, scrambled eggs, fruit!!
 
Stay for the Bible study and fellowship!!
 
Please let me know if you are coming!!
______________________________________________________________________________________________
FALL MEN'S RETREAT IS SET
WHEN:  Friday- Sunday SEPT. 26-28
WHERE: Mark Twain Lake at Si Colburn Group Camp
WHAT: The theme is "Amazing Grace"
HOW MUCH: $45 for registration, housing, food, and attendance prizes; $30 for golf, $15 if you want to stay up there Thursday night; everything else on your own
Accommodations:  Group cabins, (if you are a light sleeper you may want ear plugs or you may want to bring your camper/tent), You can also rent a room at the hotel in town about 5 miles away.
Please let me know of your desire to attend. 
_______________________________________________________________________________________
TRUSTEES HAVE SCHEDULED A WORK DAY FOR SATURDAY, MAY 17!!!
List of projects:
1. finishing trim on front door
2. Fixing partition between overflow and sanctuary
3. Addressing drainage issues
4. Painting
5. Other
They have also established a volunteer list.  Id you wish to tackle a project at another time, see the list posted on the bulletin board across from church office.

________________________________________________________________________

T-SHIRTS FOR SALE!!!

Wonderful blaze orange t-shirts are for sale for $10 a piece to help support our board of outreach and evangelism's efforts and to raise money to provide for those in need.  Pick up your size today and put your $10 in the box provided!!!  They are located in the narthex (entry way) of church upstairs.

___________________________________________________________________________

THE STORY: CHAPTER 15 "God's Messengers" IS THIS WEEK!!!

It is the stories of Elijah and Elisha and how they were given the task of proclaiming God's judgment upon the Kings of Israel. 

 

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
JUST A FEW SPACES LEFT IN THE THREE YEAR OLD LITTLE LAMBS CLASS FOR NEXT YEAR!!

The four year old class is full and there is a waiting list that people can get on if they wish. 

 

The three year old class still has several spaces available.  If you know of someone or you would like to get your own child in to this class please call the church office asap!!! 

______________________________________________________________________________________________________
TWO GROUP TRAVEL EVENTS COMING UP THIS YEAR!!
October 4--A DAY IN ST. LOUIS--  We will tour places that are hidden gems in St. Louis
 
December 6-- CATHOLIC RECTORY IN HERMANN AND POSSIBLY A CHRISTMAS SHOW IN OSAGE BEACH
 
Let Marilyn know if you are interested in either of these trip so she can make definite plans.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
PASTOR NEEDS SPONSORS FOR HIS BIKE ACROSS KANSAS!!
I will be biking across part of Kansas, about 220 miles in all, on June 7-9 to raise money for Leadachild.org.  Lead a Child is a LCMS recognized service organization that provides funding for kids to attend schools, many of them Christian schools, in third world countries.  It has provided A LOT for ministries and missions to help kids who would otherwise have NO EDUCATION in places like Guatemala, Kenya, Uganda, Mexico, and many other places.  Please consider supporting me so that we can continue to support children throughout the world!  As of January 1, I am also on the board of directors for this organization.


___________________________________________________________________________________________
PRAYER REQUESTS:  (If you have a prayer request please reply to this email or call me at 636-359-1061)

For LIBBY PAILER, who has been dealing with bronchitis and pneumonia for several weeks now.

 

For BEN FRICK, who has also been dealing with pneumonia and weakness for the last two weeks at least.

 

For EMOGENE FRYANT, friend of Marv and Molly Hendershot, who has been place on hospice care.

 

For CHERI VERME, daughter of Lil WInter, who is suffering from severe osteoporosis and has a cracked pelvis (all the way across her pelvis) because of it.

 

For FRAN WAGNER, a good friend of Sandy Robine, who has been placed on hospice care.

 

For TRICIA MEYER, who is dealing with ovarian cancer.  She is a friend of many in our congregation.

 

For KELSEY OVERBECK as she finishes up her schooling at Concordia, Seward and moves to Warrenton to become our DCE intern. 

THOSE WITH CANCER, especially RICK SPINIOLAS, and the many others among our family and friends who are struggling with cancer.

Monday, May 5, 2014

DEVOTION: "When he saw Elijah, he said to him, 'Is that you, you troubler of Israel?'  'I have not made trouble for Israel,' Elijah replied, ' But you and your father's family have.  You have abandoned the Lord's commands and have followed the Baals."  The Story, p. 203-204
 
A lot of times God's Word and the people who proclaim it are considered nuisances.  We are thought of as bothersome and troublesome, especially when we bring up the law into people's hearts.  Consider when we talk about something for instance like, living together before marriage.  We are thought of as old fashioned and not with the times.  When we confront people with this, they get offended and their family gets offended. 
 
Or consider when a pastor or the leaders of a congregation talk about money.  You can say whatever you want, but don't talk about someone's money and how he or she deals with it.  That's off limits and offensive. 
 
Ahab was the most evil king that Israel ever knew.  He worshiped and served the false god Baal, and he had an even more wicked wife named Jezebel.  Elijah was sent by God to confront Ahab in this week's chapter of The Story.  It wasn't a fun job.  Ahab didn't repent of his sins.  Yet, Elijah was still called to proclaim the whole counsel of God.  He often had to run and hide and feared for his very life on many occasions. 
 
Being a Christian and holding to the whole Word of God is not always fun.  Sometimes it means that you yourself have to take a long hard look at what you are doing and how you are living.  Other times it means that you have to confront someone else about their own sins and lives.  Don't put it off.  If God is calling you to do this he is not going to let you off the hook.  He isn't going to let it pass.  You have been called to proclaim his word!  Go and do it!
 
If you need help, come and talk to me (your pastor) about it.  I have been called by God to proclaim God's Word in every circumstance of every life within this congregation.  I will gladly walk with you and help you as you do what God has called you to do, but even more, God will walk with you every step of the way, give you every word to say, and give you protection in His mercy and grace. 
 
Prayer:  Lord God, Holy Spirit, help me to proclaim your word into every situation with gentleness and respect and with Your power.  Amen.
 
 
 
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
YESTERDAY'S QUIZ
What did Jeroboam set up in Bethel and Dan for the Israelites to worship?  Golden calves  (sound familiar?)___________________________________________________________________________________
TODAY'S QUIZ: Where was Elijah from?
______________________________________________________________________________________
CALENDAR:
Mon- Warrenton Manor worship 10am; 7-12 grade Youth 6pm
Tues- Quilters 9; Bible study 11:30
Wed- Jonesburg NH worship 10:30; Choir 7
Sat- Basement reserved 10-3; Bible study 4; worship 5
Sun- Mother's Day; worship 8:30; Sunday school and Bible class 9:45; worship 11
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
WORSHIP WORKERS FOR THIS WEEK
Acolytes- 8:30- Dustin Toedebusch  11- John Pezold
Altar guild- Set up- Linda Callies; Clean Up- John and Joanne Hachtel
Greeters- 8:30- Coleen Bottorff 11- Joan Sexton
Communion Assistants- Sat- Rich Talbert; 8:30- Rich Boeger; 11- Dave Winter
Lay Readers- Sat- Marcia Sevier; 8:30- Tim Linke;  11am- Ian Brunson
8:30 Ushers- Scott Heitgerd, Tom Linke, Alex Heitgerd, Bob Linke
Projectors- Sat- ????, 8:30- Terry McKenzie, 11- Emily Brunson
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
NEWS:
A HUGE THANK YOU TO ALL WHO WORKED AND PARTICIPATED IN THE VENDOR FAIR AND TAILGATE SALE AND LADIES AID LUNCHEON AND BAKE SALE!!!!  It was a very successful sale!  Pastor Terry Grund won the quilt.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
MEN'S BREAKFAST THIS SATURDAY AT 8am!!
Come for the great food:  biscuits, sausage gravy, sausage, scrambled eggs, fruit!!
 
Stay for the Bible study and fellowship!!
 
Please let me know if you are coming!!
______________________________________________________________________________________________
FALL MEN'S RETREAT IS SET
WHEN:  Friday- Sunday SEPT. 26-28
WHERE: Mark Twain Lake at Si Colburn Group Camp
WHAT: The theme is "Amazing Grace"
HOW MUCH: $45 for registration, housing, food, and attendance prizes; $30 for golf, $15 if you want to stay up there Thursday night; everything else on your own
Accommodations:  Group cabins, (if you are a light sleeper you may want ear plugs or you may want to bring your camper/tent), You can also rent a room at the hotel in town about 5 miles away.
Please let me know of your desire to attend. 
_______________________________________________________________________________________
TRUSTEES HAVE SCHEDULED A WORK DAY FOR SATURDAY, MAY 17!!!

List of projects:

1. finishing trim on front door

2. Fixing partition between overflow and sanctuary

3. Addressing drainage issues

4. Painting

5. Other

 

They have also established a volunteer list.  Id you wish to tackle a project at another time, see the list posted on the bulletin board across from church office.

________________________________________________________________________

T-SHIRTS FOR SALE!!!

Wonderful blaze orange t-shirts are for sale for $10 a piece to help support our board of outreach and evangelism's efforts and to raise money to provide for those in need.  Pick up your size today and put your $10 in the box provided!!!  They are located in the narthex (entry way) of church upstairs.

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THE STORY: CHAPTER 15 "God's Messengers" IS THIS WEEK!!!

It is the stories of Elijah and Elisha and how they were given the task of proclaiming God's judgment upon the Kings of Israel. 

 

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JUST A FEW SPACES LEFT IN THE THREE YEAR OLD LITTLE LAMBS CLASS FOR NEXT YEAR!!

The four year old class is full and there is a waiting list that people can get on if they wish. 

 

The three year old class still has several spaces available.  If you know of someone or you would like to get your own child in to this class please call the church office asap!!! 

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TWO GROUP TRAVEL EVENTS COMING UP THIS YEAR!!
October 4--A DAY IN ST. LOUIS--  We will tour places that are hidden gems in St. Louis
 
December 6-- CATHOLIC RECTORY IN HERMANN AND POSSIBLY A CHRISTMAS SHOW IN OSAGE BEACH
 
Let Marilyn know if you are interested in either of these trip so she can make definite plans.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
PASTOR NEEDS SPONSORS FOR HIS BIKE ACROSS KANSAS!!
I will be biking across part of Kansas, about 220 miles in all, on June 7-9 to raise money for Leadachild.org.  Lead a Child is a LCMS recognized service organization that provides funding for kids to attend schools, many of them Christian schools, in third world countries.  It has provided A LOT for ministries and missions to help kids who would otherwise have NO EDUCATION in places like Guatemala, Kenya, Uganda, Mexico, and many other places.  Please consider supporting me so that we can continue to support children throughout the world!  As of January 1, I am also on the board of directors for this organization.


___________________________________________________________________________________________
PRAYER REQUESTS:  (If you have a prayer request please reply to this email or call me at 636-359-1061)

For LIBBY PAILER, who has been dealing with bronchitis and pneumonia for several weeks now.

 

For BEN FRICK, who has also been dealing with pneumonia and weakness for the last two weeks at least.

 

For EMOGENE FRYANT, friend of Marv and Molly Hendershot, who has been place on hospice care.

 

For CHERI VERME, daughter of Lil WInter, who is suffering from severe osteoporosis and has a cracked pelvis (all the way across her pelvis) because of it.

 

For FRAN WAGNER, a good friend of Sandy Robine, who has been placed on hospice care.

 

For TRICIA MEYER, who is dealing with ovarian cancer.  She is a friend of many in our congregation.

 

For KELSEY OVERBECK as she finishes up her schooling at Concordia, Seward and moves to Warrenton to become our DCE intern. 

THOSE WITH CANCER, especially RICK SPINIOLAS, and the many others among our family and friends who are struggling with cancer.

The Lutheran Hour: May 4, 2014

-------- Original message --------

From: Lutheran Hour Ministries

Date:05/03/2014 9:15 PM (GMT-06:00)

To: revklaus@hotmail.com

Subject: The Lutheran Hour: May 4, 2014

Sermon Text for May 4, 2014 "Live Life, Traveling Well" #81-35 Presented on The Lutheran Hour on May 4, 2014 By Rev. Gregory Seltz, Lutheran Hour Speaker Copyright 2014 Lutheran Hour Ministries Text: 1 Peter 1:17-25 Christ is risen, He is risen, indeed; and He is the wisdom and strength to finish well the journey of your life by faith in Him. Amen. What's the first question you hear from kids when you take a road trip in the car? I know that you know this one. Yes, that question that's asked over and over again, "Are we there yet?" Our family vacation when I was young, was to visit our family in Ironwood, Michigan, going "up north," as they say. It was great to see our family, but the family fun was 650 miles away one way. Trips, longs ones; they often begin with excitement, but there comes a point when we just want to get there. We want to know when the journey ends.  Now, you may not be taking a road trip vacation at the moment, but you may very well still be asking the question, "Are we there yet?" Because you are asking it in the context of this journey called life. You wonder when you will arrive at certain destinations: will you meet the right person to become your husband or wife? Are we there yet? Will your dreams be realized for starting a family? Are we there yet? Will you reach the career goal you're shooting for? Will God's plan for your life be clear so you can understand what He wants you to do? What will your purpose be as your life changes as you experience new challenges along the way? Are we there yet? How will you handle aging, health issues, and, ultimately, the end of your life? When will you feel at peace? Will life be okay? Are we there yet? Those are really important, "Are we there yet?" questions for your life. And, all of us have to answer them eventually. And the words of the Bible help us face those questions in confidence that can only come by faith in Jesus Christ.  So, this lesson from the Apostle Peter speaks to anyone asking those are-we-there-yet life-questions. But, did you notice what he says first? Peter says, "And if you call on him (God) as Father...conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile..." (1 Peter 1:17).  This journey, our life, he calls an exile. Peter was saying to them, to us, no matter how things are at the moment, they weren't home yet. They were merely traveling here, on a road trip to their most important destination, to be home with God in heaven. And, about that important trip; He wanted them, He wants us to travel well. But it's not always easy to do that. In fact, as sinful people, we don't always travel well. We often travel poorly. When life isn't going the way you want it to or the way you hoped it would, it's very easy to do that. Face a few major obstacles and you may sink into despair and lose hope for the trip. Experience a few detours and you may develop a little road rage, becoming angry or acting out in rebellion and sinful behavior. Or, get stuck in the traffic and you can easily find yourself ready to turn around and forget the whole thing. If we travel poorly, we can not only lose our cool, lose our focus, or lose our purpose, we may miss the whole point of the whole thing; even getting side-tracked from the main destination. Traveling poorly can do that. Thinking back, I can remember a few times when my brothers and I kind of ruined the trip which took away the joy of the destination too. So, the Apostle Peter offers some help for you and me. He knows our propensity to travel poorly, so he helps us travel well, to make the very most of this journey that we have in life towards our home with Christ in heaven. Listen to what the Bible says in 1 Peter, chapter one: "If you call on him as Father....conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile, knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot" (1 Peter 1:17-19). First, in order to travel well, then, Peter calls you to travel with fear.  Fear? Fear? That doesn't sound very good. What does that mean? Well, let me explain. Do remember the excitement of getting your license so that you could drive? Do you remember the excitement of getting behind the wheel and going wherever you wanted to go? Ah, the joy of freedom to travel, right? But, do you also remember taking drivers ed classes before getting your license? I do. I had to sit through some Saturday classes and test drives with other students under the watchful eye of our instructor. One of the first things that we were told before getting behind the wheel, before experiencing the joy of being able to go anywhere at any time, the first thing we were taught? It was to drive defensively. That's right, defensive driving. It is important. It's driving anticipating what other drivers might do wrongly, not just doing what's right. When you're on the road, it's watching for other cars, watching for people. Suspect that anything and everything may go wrong. Why? So you'll be ready, you'll be safe. It's driving with a healthy fear.  And that's a good thing, especially when you're traveling down the road at 60 mph in a 2000-lb car that has a flammable liquid in the tank. There's joy in driving; yes, but you might want to be careful not to hit another one of those potentially combustible, battering rams. That joy can be snatched quickly. Lives depend on everyone driving smartly, defensively, with a healthy sense of fear. It's fun to drive, no doubt; but, that joy should be focused, undistracted, alert. That's how God calls you to live your life in this sinful world. Peter says that's how you travel the journey of life well. There are practices in life that will cause you to crash. There are habits that will hurt yourself and others. There are attitudes that will drain your soul of hope. Traveling with fear means that you live on the alert for hazards, hurt, and distractions. You listen to God's guidance and you resist the temptations that would cause you to fall asleep at the wheel of your life. But Christians, we don't just travel with a healthy fear of the potential potholes that might knock us off course. We travel ultimately with the excitement of the destination, with the wisdom of how to manage the trip, with the knowledge that the trip and the destination are going to be special because God is with us all the way! Peter says, "Believers travel with hope!" 1 Peter 1, he says: "[Jesus] was foreknown before the foundation of the world but was made manifest in the last times for the sake of you who through him are believers in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God." Jesus was manifest. He was made visible--shown as the Savior to our world. He made the ultimate journey, to make a way; a highway, if you will, back to the Father. He not only made it possible, He made it clear, the death and resurrection of Jesus was God making a way home for all of us who had lost our way! One of the great feats of engineering today is tunnels. If you've ever driven in New York City, you know that, it is an island, so you either need to drive through a tunnel or cross a bridge to get into Manhattan. Before there were bridges or tunnels, drivers were faced with the absolute barrier of the Hudson River to their journey into the city. But someone made a way where there was no way, they dug under the water, they made a tunnel and voila, cars driving on dry land under the water into New York City.  Well, today, maybe you're facing an absolutely impossible obstacle too. Maybe it's the impassible river of grief or stress. Maybe it's a mountain of guilt or shame or loss. There are times in this world where we are all overwhelmed by our inability to finish the journey we're on. And that's why the Bible's message is so unique in all the world.  God doesn't tell you to drive a little harder or smarter; and take on the water, the mountain, that won't let you pass. God, the very Engineer of our salvation, makes a way for you and me, on His terms, by His efforts for us as a gift! The cross and the Resurrection of Jesus are more than a tunnel under water or a tunnel through a mountain, it's a highway of grace back to God, paved by His death, offered toll free by His Resurrection. When God makes a way possible where there is no way, you can trust Him that you will finish the journey well. And not only does He make a way possible, He offers a destination that is beyond our imagination. Think about what keeps you going on a long journey. It's the promise of a wonderful destination. I know of a family who loves going to Disney World. The first time they went, they had a brochure and a guidebook. One summer, they piled into the car with their kids and they set out for Florida. It was a long drive. But whenever fatigue started to set in, they looked at the pictures and remembered the amazing place they were heading. Whenever they got grumpy, they would talk about the places they wanted to explore. Whenever they felt hungry or cramped or dissatisfied, they would remember the reason for the journey, Mickey, Minnie, the Magic Kingdom. They traveled with a destination of hope. What keeps you going on this journey of life? It's not that sun-drenched get-away, or the promises of the Magic Kingdom. No, it's the ultimate destination of hope, it's the hope of heaven delivered through the gifts of God's grace!  On your journey, when you feel isolated, even alone...God strengthens you with His Spirit-filled Word and sacraments and lets you know that you are never alone and He will see the journey through with you!  On your journey, when you feel hopeless, disheartened, God's Word reminds you that you have a worthy purpose for this trip, to be His ambassadors of His destination for all. And when you grow weary, weary of the challenges of this journey in exile, God lets you know what awaits you; abundant, joyful life with Christ, home with Him forever! Those who trust in Jesus, they travel on this journey with fear, not dread; with hope, not despair; yes, but above all, the believer travels with the power of love in action for the journey itself!  Peter's words in the Scriptures say it this way: Having purified your souls by obedience to the truth for a sincere brotherly love, love one another earnestly from a pure heart, since you have been born again, not of perishable seed but imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God.  It's amazing, the power of love, isn't it? It's amazing what love can do when it travels with you, right? Let me explain. My dad was a guy who could get things done. When he was young, in his teens, he worked hard, took care of his brothers while his father was away fighting during the war. He did what he had to do for the ones he loved. And that was an attitude of love that was evident in our family too. In fact, he and my mom took care of us with that kind of dedication, always providing whatever it was we needed so that we could accomplish whatever was in front of us too. That's what someone else's love can do for you! I can remember the feeling I had one day when I realized that that love travels, that love was something I could count on for my journey as their son. I was away at the University of Michigan for my freshman year, my first time away from home. In one of my science classes at Michigan, my faith was being ridiculed, so I decided that I'd also take a class at nearby Concordia College, Ann Arbor. They had a world-renowned science professor there who was a creation scientist. So, I thought I would hear both sides, get the facts as it were. But, to do so, I had to make the trip from my dorm at South Quad to Concordia every week!  But then one late afternoon, on one of the coldest, snowiest days of the year, my car suddenly died out in the middle of nowhere on the way to class. I checked the basic things that could have gone wrong, but this was something more. The engine was dead. Later, I found out that my car had thrown its timing chain, bad news. So, here I was stranded, no money to fix the car, no AAA to get it towed, no cell phones then, either; but one thing I did know, if I could get to a pay phone and get a hold of my dad, he would know what to do. So, I did; I ran to a phone a few miles away, called my father, and he told me to stay put; he'd be there after work to get me and we'd figure something out together. When he got there, sure enough, he knew what to do, who to call, and how we could take care of this thing and get me back on the road. But, even before he got there, I was sure everything would be alright as soon as I knew that he was coming. That's the joy of knowing that love comes to you and then even travels with you! The love of a mom, dad, or committed friend, one who's willing to be there on that journey with you, even when you've made a mess of things, it's amazing, isn't it? And for those who love us, they often do it with no benefit to themselves at the moment; they do it because they love us.  So, let me challenge you, my friend. This week, when you get a glimpse of any underserved kindness in your life, or when you think back on a time when you received a blessing from someone even though you didn't deserve it at all, let that remind you of the truth of our lesson today; that God loves you even more than you'll ever know. His love traveled to the cross and back so that you might have life; a real journey to eternal life over the obstacles of sin and death! And, His love traveled to you and even now travels with you, as Jesus Himself promises to be with you each and every step of the way.  For, that's what God did when He sent His Son to you just in time. Sidelined in our own failing strength, immobilized in our inability and sin, God sent His Son to save us. Tires go flat, cars break down, our lives run out of strength and our spirits become deflated; but the Word of the Lord remains forever! The Good News of Jesus never fails! The love of God encourages you and keeps you on the journey. But traveling well is not merely knowing that love as our travel companion, but sharing it too!  God's love travels, and with His love on your journey, you can travel well as you share it with others. Traveling well means that you can show what you've received! In fact, the journey of life is not some boring journey, sitting still in the car until you get there, constantly asking, "Are we there yet." No, life is a wonderful journey with eyes wide open to all the opportunities around us to be God's people for others; to stop and help those who are stranded, to give God's directions to those who don't know where they are or where they're going, to enjoy the ride with our loved ones and friends as a glimpse of the joy that will be in heaven for all those who trust in Christ. What a joy it is to be on the journey of life in Christ, pedal to the metal! Peter is challenging us all today, on the journey of our lives, travel well, as one prepared, focused, alert in the grace of God in Jesus, directed by the wisdom of God in His Word. And with His presence and promises, His guidance and strength, ready to hit the road of life with hope and love because in Christ, by faith in Him, you can travel well until you are at home with the One Who has made a way for you where there was no way! So, rev the engine of your life, chart the course, give it gas, and by faith in Jesus Christ, with His hope and love in action, travel well.  Amen. LUTHERAN HOUR MAILBOX (Questions & Answers) for May 4, 2014 Topic: Accidental Heresy? ANNOUNCER: Let's call it "Accidental Heresy"-it's what happens when imperfect people worship a perfect God. I'm Mark Eischer, here with Pastor Gregory Seltz. Pastor, worship services celebrate God's perfection, His grace, and holiness, but let's face it, aren't there times when we just flub it? SELTZ: Wow, Mark, that's a great question and I've talked to pastors over the years and all of us have had times when our hearts wanted to say or sing one thing but our lips delivered a different message-where we've committed worship heresy in spite of our best intentions. ANNOUNCER: Care to share any examples?  SELTZ: Well, I remember printing a refrain for an Easter hymn, "Let angels' prostate fall, crown Him Lord of all!"  ANNOUNCER: Which brings to mind a whole different image. SELTZ: It did and it made the Easter hymn a bit harder to sing that Easter Sunday. I've heard of other mistakes that got in the way of worship, too. ANNOUNCER: Could you share a few of those? SELTZ: Reluctantly, but here goes. A children's choir, singing about God as the King exalted on high, sang, "The King is insulted on High, I will praise Him." A pastor confessed, "Don't know if it's heresy but during a prayer I meant to say, 'God, be honored and glorified.' It came out "God, be honorfied," which almost sounded like "horrified." ANNOUNCER: That seems pretty harmless, though. SELTZ: Well, you're right, but some mistakes are worse than others; and sometimes readers of the Bible have said the opposite of what's printed, musicians have inadvertently sung songs at odds with the Bible and even pastors have had times saying exactly the opposite of what they intended in a sermon, things that were biblically wrong. Things like this happen for a variety of reasons, ultimately because we're imperfect, fallen people; but the important thing is how can we make sure it doesn't get in the way of a faithful proclamation of God's Word for our people. ANNOUNCER: Even when we commit heresy by accident, it's a problem if it gets "in the way" of sharing the true message of the Bible. SELTZ: Right. So, let's say first.... it's vitally important for those who lead us in worship to strive to be faithful to let people see Jesus in our work that day. So, one should practice the readings, making sure that one knows what they're reading, even why. People are gathering in church to hear what God says, not us, what He's saying through His Word. So, when we mess up, that can get in the way of that blessing, that Good News communication. ANNOUNCER: Speaking of good news, surely there's grace for us even there, right? SELTZ: There is and that too is because in all the words we share or proclaim in church on a Sunday, God's Word of grace, that's the Word that is the most important of all to hear. God's grace sometimes is communicated, then, in spite of us. Or, God's grace is illustrated in our imperfection in spite of our best efforts. ANNOUNCER: Still, it doesn't excuse poor preparation; reading, singing, or writing. SELTZ: No, it doesn't. First and foremost, we should strive for clarity and faithfulness in proclaiming the public Word of God and if something is public and egregious, we shouldn't be embarrassed to correct it. ANNOUNCER: Because...that might be an even greater testimony to God's "grace in action."  SELTZ: It sure could. And when something is corrected, we should all forgive and forget, as Christ does with us. Colossians 3 talks about the attitude we need, "to forgive one another as God in Christ forgave us."  ANNOUNCER: But, such a loving, forgiving attitude is not an excuse to give less than our best in leading worship. SELTZ: Absolutely. And that's the joyous burden of leading God's people in worship. It requires training, and practice, effort, thought, preparation. When God lists qualifications for those who can become public ministers of the Gospel in 1 Timothy 3, much of the list is about character, moral traits that cause a person to get themselves out of the way of a clear, faithful proclamation of the Gospel. ANNOUNCER: Still, people sometimes come to regard worship leaders almost as performers. SELTZ: They do, it's like...they think in 1Timothy like it's listing the traits that allow you to be in charge. But, in reality, they're traits that would allow a person to serve, to humbly teach and preach God's Word, to not be worried about who gets the credit, or who looks the most impressive in worship, but to worry solely about letting the Word of God be clearly shared and received, as well as properly responded to.  ANNOUNCER: That attitude enables leaders, then, to clarify or correct anything that might be amiss. SELTZ: It would, because the focus is on proclaiming God's Word so that all might receive it by faith, with joy as the key! ANNOUNCER: Worship is both a gracious joy and challenging work for those who are called to lead. Thank God, His Grace covers it all. 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. "Lord, Take My Hand and Lead Me" From The Concordia Organist (© 2009 Concordia Publishing House) "Lord, Keep Us Steadfast in Your Word" From The Concordia Organist (© 2009 Concordia Publishing House) Print this sermon Sign up for LHM news Daily Devotions Visit lutheranhour.org Change my email Contact Us subscribe / unsubscribe / visit our website 660 Mason Ridge Center Dr. St. Louis, MO 63141 1-800-876-9880

Thursday, May 1, 2014

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). 

 

"Rest in Peace ... Really!"
May 1, 2014 
(Jesus said) "Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have tribulation. Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life." Revelation 2:10
William Hahn, Jr. lived from 1905 to 1980. His tombstone reads, "I told you I was sick." The stone which sits over the deceased talk-show host, Merv Griffin, says, "I will not be back after this message," and the gravestone over Mohammed Said al-Sahal affirms, "I am not really dead. Do not believe those American lies."

Of course, the shortest obituary I have ever read was composed by Swedish native Stig Kernell. Before he died at the age of 92, Kernell had given strict instructions to his funeral home. They were to send his obituary to the papers without making any changes. When he died, the morticians made good on their promise and, sure enough, in the two local papers, under his name on the obituary page, it read, "I AM DEAD."

That's it, three words: "I AM DEAD."

Well, the media got hold of the unusual death notice and began contacting Kernell's two sons. Eventually, his boys got together and wrote a more traditional announcement. This they did because they didn't want anybody to think there had been bad blood between them and their dead dad.

One of them explained, "The short obituary is reflective of our father's sense of humor." He continued, "It has helped us to cope with the loss of him, in that he was not at all scared of death."

Scripture tells everyone who believes in Jesus as their Savior that they can share Kernell's lack of fear when it comes to dying. When an unbeliever has to regard death as a step into the "great unknown," Christians know their Savior has prepared a place for His forgiven followers in heaven. Believers of Islam must concede that Allah is not bound by any rules, and he will do what he is going to do. There's not much comfort there. Other major faiths tell their adherents that since they may not have done enough good in this life to balance the scales of justice, they may be repeating life until they get it right.

Only Christianity lays down the comforting truth: "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you shall be saved" (see Acts 16:31).

But there's more. Believers in the risen Redeemer can appreciate the words of Revelation that tell us not to be afraid of persecution or death because those who remain faithful will receive a "crown of life."

It's good to know. After all, the day is coming when a memorial stone will be put above each of us. When that day comes, may those who are left behind be comforted by the knowledge that, for us, death was only the gateway to eternal life with our Savior.

THE PRAYER: Dear Lord, as a sinful human being, I am unable to see what is going to happen in the future. Even so, as a forgiven follower of the Christ, I am sure the approach of death cannot fill me with fear and trembling. For this transformation brought about by Jesus, may I always give thanks. In the Savior's Name I ask it. Amen.
In Christ I remain His servant and yours,


Pastor Ken Klaus
Speaker Emeritus of The Lutheran Hour^®
Lutheran Hour Ministries

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___________________________________________________________________________________________________
YESTERDAY'S QUIZ
Was Rehoboam king over Israel or Judah? Israel to start, but then the other tribes broke away from him and he was left with Judah and Jerusalem.
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TODAY'S QUIZ: What did Jeroboam set up in Bethel and Dan for the Israelites to worship?___________________________________________________________________________________
CALENDAR:

Fri- Set up for Saturday's sales
Sat- Flea Market opens 7-1; Vendor Fair, Bake Sale, and Luncheon 9-3; Bible study 4pm; worship 5pm; 3 year old Little Lamb's program 6:30pm
Sun-  Worship 8:30; Sunday school and Bible Study 9:45; 4 year old LL program 5pm
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WORSHIP WORKERS FOR THIS WEEK
Acolytes- 8:30- George Pezold  11- Leah Vossen
Altar guild- Set up- Ruth Walters; Clean Up- Sandy Robine
Greeters- 8:30- Sharon Spoede 11- Tom and Pam Linke
Communion Assistants- Sat- Charlie Figura; 8:30- Don Turnure; 11- Steve Robine
Lay Readers- Sat- Lynn Figura; 8:30- Jennifer Figura;  11am- Kailyn Blechle
8:30 Ushers- Alan Hofeldt, Tim Linke, Rich Talbert, Don Turnure
Projectors- Sat- Pam Bueltmann, 8:30- ???, 11- Siera Jaeger
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NEWS:

VENDOR FAIR AND TAILGATE SALE AND LADIES AID LUNCHEON AND BAKE SALE SATURDAY, MAY 3, 7am-3pm

TAILGATE SALE/FLEA MARKET BEGINS AT 7am and goes to 1pm!!

 

VENDOR FAIR, LUNCHEON, AND BAKE SALE 9am-3pm

 
There are still tailgate spaces available for $10, but all of the inside selling tables are reserved. 

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A SPECIAL THANKS TO ALL WHO PARTICIPATED IN THE NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER BREAKFAST AND SERVICE TODAY

Especially the following:

Sandy Robine and her husband Steve for preparing the overflow and the breakfast as well as all of the publicity materials

Peggy Williams from Friedens UCC for playing the organ

All who donated food

All who woke up early and participated in the service

The LORD GOD HIMSELF without whom none of it would even be possible. 

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FALL MEN'S RETREAT IS SET

WHEN:  Friday- Sunday SEPT. 26-28

WHERE: Mark Twain Lake at Si Colburn Group Camp

WHAT: The theme is "Amazing Grace"

HOW MUCH: $45 for registration, housing, food, and attendance prizes; $30 for golf, $15 if you want to stay up there Thursday night; everything else on your own

 

Accommodations:  Group cabins, (if you are a light sleeper you may want ear plugs or you may want to bring your camper/tent), You can also rent a room at the hotel in town about 5 miles away.

 

Please let me know of your desire to attend. 
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TRUSTEES HAVE SCHEDULED A WORK DAY FOR SATURDAY, MAY 17!!!

List of projects:

1. finishing trim on front door

2. Fixing partition between overflow and sanctuary

3. Addressing drainage issues

4. Painting

5. Other

 

They have also established a volunteer list.  Id you wish to tackle a project at another time, see the list posted on the bulletin board across from church office.

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T-SHIRTS FOR SALE!!!

Wonderful blaze orange t-shirts are for sale for $10 a piece to help support our board of outreach and evangelism's efforts and to raise money to provide for those in need.  Pick up your size today and put your $10 in the box provided!!!  They are located in the narthex (entry way) of church upstairs.

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THE STORY: CHAPTER 14 "A Kingdom Torn in Two" IS THIS WEEK!!!

We are back at it and won't have another break for quite some time so get to reading and studying!!  Read it and learn about how King Rehoboam, because of his harshness and wickedness against the people, caused a civil war and caused the kingdom to be split in two.   

 

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JUST A FEW SPACES LEFT IN THE THREE YEAR OLD LITTLE LAMBS CLASS FOR NEXT YEAR!!

The four year old class is full and there is a waiting list that people can get on if they wish. 

 

The three year old class still has several spaces available.  If you know of someone or you would like to get your own child in to this class please call the church office asap!!! 

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TWO GROUP TRAVEL EVENTS COMING UP THIS YEAR!!
October 4--A DAY IN ST. LOUIS--  We will tour places that are hidden gems in St. Louis
 
December 6-- CATHOLIC RECTORY IN HERMANN AND POSSIBLY A CHRISTMAS SHOW IN OSAGE BEACH
 
Let Marilyn know if you are interested in either of these trip so she can make definite plans.
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PASTOR NEEDS SPONSORS FOR HIS BIKE ACROSS KANSAS!!
I will be biking across part of Kansas, about 220 miles in all, on June 7-9 to raise money for Leadachild.org.  Lead a Child is a LCMS recognized service organization that provides funding for kids to attend schools, many of them Christian schools, in third world countries.  It has provided A LOT for ministries and missions to help kids who would otherwise have NO EDUCATION in places like Guatemala, Kenya, Uganda, Mexico, and many other places.  Please consider supporting me so that we can continue to support children throughout the world!  As of January 1, I am also on the board of directors for this organization.


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PRAYER REQUESTS:  (If you have a prayer request please reply to this email or call me at 636-359-1061)

For EMOGENE FRYANT, friend of Marv and Molly Hendershot, who has been place on hospice care.

 

For PASTOR as he travels to Concordia University in Seward, NE Thurs-Sat.

 

For ALL OF OUR SEMINARIANS WHO WERE PLACED IN VICARAGES AND FIRST CALLS ON TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY, that God would bless them with fruitful ministry and peace. Especially for  Harrison & Stacy Parker going to Anchorage, Alaska AND Jacob & Alexandra Wampfler going to Topeka, KS. These are friends and tenants of the Robines.

 

For CHERI VERME, daughter of Lil WInter, who is suffering from severe osteoporosis and has a cracked pelvis (all the way across her pelvis) because of it.

 

For our 8th GRADERS WHO WERE CONFIRMED Sunday that they continue to grow in the faith they have confirmed!

 

For FRAN WAGNER, a good friend of Sandy Robine, who has been placed on hospice care.

 

For TRICIA MEYER, who is dealing with ovarian cancer.  She is a friend of many in our congregation.

 

For KELSEY OVERBECK as she finishes up her schooling at Concordia, Seward and moves to Warrenton to become our DCE intern. 

THOSE WITH CANCER, especially RICK SPINIOLAS, and the many others among our family and friends who are struggling with cancer.

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