prayer for Dick Peterson

 Please pray for Dick Peterson as he will be having outpatient (hopefully) surgery on his colon tomorrow. 

Tuesday, July 14, 2015

DEVOTION:  "Before me no god was formed, nor will there be one after me.  I, even I am the Lord, and apart from me there is no savior.  Isaiah 43:10c-11
 
The search for God continues, or should I say the search to claim that there is no God continues.  Either way, people have always and will continue to try to get rid of God, deny him, exclude him from their lives, claim that he is dead, claim that what he said about himself in the Bible isn't true, and so on and so forth. 
 
For the last few decades at least certain scientists and others have been trying to disprove the existence of God.  There was even a famous Time magazine article that claimed that God was dead.  It was going on way before this though.  Still, as scientists and mathematicians look at the hard facts and the stark probability that our planet and even our universe could've happened by random chance, they are overwhelmed with evidence that it simply cannot be so.  Here is a link to a video that explains it much better than I can. https://www.facebook.com/prageru/videos/909352269107630/
 
The FACT is that there is a God who exists.  Not only does he merely exist, but he is our creator and savior!  He is the first and the last, the beginning and the end, the one, true, and only God. 
 
Best of all, he is not a creator who wants to destroy us, nor does he want to misuse us for his own enjoyment.  He loves us and wants to take care of us forever.  He loves us so much that he sent his one and only son, Jesus, to be our Savior and Redeemer. 
 
He even loves you, poor and miserable sinner that you are, and he wants to have a better relationship with you.  The way to have that relationship is to simply surrender to his will.  Go to him with your weariness and your burdens and he will give you rest.  Go to him with your guilt and he will take it away and give you right spirit and a clean heart.  Go to him with your worries and troubles and he will remind you of his grace and forgiveness. 
 
Don't try to get rid of God, even more, don't begin to think that you don't need him or that he is of no help to you.  Trust in him with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your path straight!
 
Let us pray:  Lord, help me to acknowledge you in all my ways so that you may straighten me out.  Amen.
 

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LAST TIME'S QUIZ: How many chapters are there in the book of Isaiah?  Name three countries that God pronounced judgment against in the book of Isaiah. Arabia, Moab, Assyria, Damascus, Edom, Tyre 
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TODAY'S QUIZ:  Who was Cyrus and where is he first mentioned in Scripture?
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CALENDAR:
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL ALL WEEK 5-8pm
Tues- Quilters 9-2; Bible Study 11:30-12:15; Trustees working on lights in quilting room 5-7, Trustee meeting 7
Fri- Bible study at Hendershots 7pm
Sat- Worship 5
Sun- Worship 8:30 and 11; Sunday school 9:45
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WORSHIP WORKERS:  
Acolyte-  8:30- Sophie Tinnin; 11- Jacob Winn
Ushers-  George, Gary, and Ben Hoelscher, and Brent Davis
Altar- Set up- Marilyn Foster and Sue Ruhl; Clean Up- Pam Linke
Communion Assistants- Sat- Dave Winter; 8:30- Steve McDowell; 11- Steve Robine
Greeters- 8:30- Pam and Tom Linke; 11- Marv and Molly Hendershot
Lay readers- Sat- Sandra Perricone 8:30- Steve McDowell  11- Steve Robine
Sat. Pianist- Tim Sherman
Sun Pianist- Doug Walters
Projectionists: ??????
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NEWS:
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL  "CROSS F.I.T." HAS BEGUN!!!
Please bring everyone you can!  This is a wonderful opportunity for outreach and to grow FIT in the cross of Jesus!
 
Supper starts at 5 and programming begins at 5:30!!
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TRUSTEES WORK NIGHT TONIGHT
The trustees will be working this evening beginning at 5pm to put new lights in the quilter's room.  They are in special need of anyone who has knowledge of electrical wires and fixtures, but will take anyone who can help!
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LADIES LUNCH TOMORROW, WEDNESDAY, JULY 15, AT DENNY'S, AT NOON!
If you haven't signed up you are still welcome to join them, but please call the church office so that they know how many to expect!  456-2888.
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MORE PROJECTIONISTS ARE NEEDED FOR OUR SCHEDULE! 

 

All it takes is a finger to push a button and to be able to pay attention during worship.

 

As much as you all must appreciate having the projection of the worship service up on the wall every week, it won't be able to continue if we can't get people to volunteer just once a month. 

 

The people that are doing it are very faithful and will continue to be, but they are going to get burned out on it if they have to keep doing it every week.  Right now we only have five teams or individuals (three teams for Saturday and two for Sunday) who are doing it and one of them is only here less than half the year. 

 

If we could just get two more teams or individuals for Saturday and two for Sunday at the early service to commit to just once a month, It would be so much better for everyone involved!!

 

Please consider becoming a part of this very important part of our worship service so we can continue to have it for you!!

 

Below is the schedule, simply reply to this email with the dates you'd be willing to help! 

 

THANK YOU!

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MISSIONARY AND PASTOR JONATHAN CLAUSING AND HIS FAMILY WILL BE AT ST. JOHN'S THIS WEEKEND. 

He and his family will be leaving to do mission work in Kenya later this Fall.  Come and hear him talk about what kind of mission work he will be doing and ways that you can support and encourage him and his family!

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SEVENTH ANNUAL GOLF OUTING WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY, AUGUST 8 AT COUNTRY LAKES!!!  SIGN UP TODAY!!

 

Cost is $50 per person

 

Format is a 2 TWO person scramble this year. 

 

Registration at 7am

 

Shotgun start at 8am

 

Lunch and prizes at 1pm

 

Holes can be sponsored for $50 each.

 

All proceeds go to benefit our wonderful Little Lambs preschool.

 

Flyers are available on the counter in the narthex for those wishing to participate.

Call Alan Hofeldt at 456-3070 or the church office at 456-2888 to sign up you and 

 

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RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE HERE AT CHURCH ON TUESDAY, JULY 28!!

Volunteers are needed before the drive to make calls and set up appointments and the day of the drive to help out.  DONORS are also needed of course!  If you can help in any way call 456-2888 to let Marilyn know.

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CALLING ALL BAKERS!!!
If you have never been involved in one of our church activities (and even if you have), here is a new challenge for you!!  There will be a cake/dessert booth at the carnival on September 12!  The carnival will be open from 11am until dusk!  Donations of baked good and workers to man the booth will be needed!!  Desserts needing refrigeration cannot be accepted.  Work shifts will be for two hours beginning at 10am and will go till closing time.  To eliminate many, many phone calls, a sign up sheet has been placed on the narthex where you can volunteer!! 

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DO YOU HAVE A KROGER CARD?  ENROLL IT IN THE COMMUNITY REWARDS PROGRAM!!!
Register online and have it swiped each time you shop. 
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SAVE THE DATE!!!!  OUR FIRST ANNUAL FALL CARNIVAL WILL BE HELD SEPTEMBER 12, 2015!!!
We are looking for ideas for carnival games and also donations of carnival game prizes for the event.  Please donate prizes into the cardboard box in the narthex.  Also, if any one has an idea for a carnival game, or a game itself they would like to donate please contact Joanna Hoelscher at 636-485-0635 or Karla Christophene at 314-397-1375.

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PRAYER REQUESTS: 

For MARIANNE LINKE, who went home from the hospital last evening and is recovering from an undiagnosed weakness, dehydration, and severe shortness of breath.  She is doing much better now.

 

FOR THANKSGIVING FOR LIL WINTER, who is doing better than she has in years after successful surgery and recovery.

 

For DENISE SCHLESSELMANN as she is in the USA for a short furlough and as she travels to gain more support for her mission work.

 

For CORA CLUVER'S DAD, who is recovering from a severe motorcycle accident that paralyzed him from the neck down. 

 

For CARA KLAUSTERMEIER, who is recovering from surgery.  She is doing very well. 

 

For DAVE AND CAROL KOHRS, who are BOTH on hospice care.

 

For OUR DCE INTERN, KELSEY OVERBECK, that the Lord's will is done concerning her call to a church to be a full time DCE.

 

For WILMA WEIGLE as she continues to deal with the after effects of a severe stroke almost two years ago.  


  

The Lutheran Hour: July 12, 2015 "In Him!"

-------- Original message --------
From: Lutheran Hour Ministries <lh_min@lhm.org>
Date: 11/07/2015 9:16 PM (GMT-06:00)
To: Jeremy Klaustermeier <revklaus@hotmail.com>
Subject: The Lutheran Hour: July 12, 2015 "In Him!"

Sermon Text for July 12, 2015  "In Him!" #82-45 Presented on The Lutheran Hour on July 12, 2015 By Rev. Gregory Seltz, Lutheran Hour Speaker (Do I Have to Go to Church to Be Saved?) Copyright 2015 Lutheran Hour Ministries     Text: Ephesians 1:3-14 The Apostle Paul said in Ephesians, chapter one: "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he has lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth" (Ephesians 1:7-10). Christ is risen. He is risen, indeed, hallelujah! Amen. Did you hear what the Apostle Paul just declared? He said, "In Christ Jesus we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our sins." The plan of God is to unite all things in Him, in Jesus. That's all things, not some things. Every person, not some elite few. In Him, all is accomplished. Outside of Him, all is still broken, dying, or dead!  You see, in the opening verses of Ephesians, chapter one, Paul speaks of being in Christ more than eleven times. In Christ. But, what does that mean? What significance does that have for you and me?  Well, more, much more than you may realize. You know, there's a big difference between being in and being out. Explorer, Keizo Funatsu, knows that very well. Back in 1990, he was with a team completing the International Trans-Antarctic Expedition. The group was only sixteen miles away from the completion of their 3,725-mile journey. But that's when disaster struck. Funatsu went outside around four-thirty in the afternoon to feed the sled dogs. He was just heading a few feet outside of his tent. He marked his trail with skis and was certain there was no danger. It was minus twenty-five degrees with only a moderate wind. But in the moments after Funatsu left his tent, the wind picked up and visibility vanished. He found his first ski marker stuck upright in the snow, but he couldn't find the second one. Thinking he wouldn't be outside very long, Funatsu hadn't worn his outdoor gear. But in a matter of seconds, he found himself stuck outside in an Antarctic whiteout. Being inside and being outside suddenly made all the difference in the world. Being inside meant shelter, warmth and life; being outside started to look like a life-threatening situation at best.  It was vital for his physical life to be in; inside all was well! Well, Paul says being in Christ, that's what is vital for your life, now and forever. The Bible says elsewhere: "for in him we live and move and have our being'" (Acts 17:28). It also says, "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace" (Ephesians 1:7). Also, in 1 Corinthians it says, "For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive" (1 Corinthians 15:22). You see, in Jesus Christ, there is life. In Him, we have the shelter of forgiveness to save us from eternal death. And, dear listener, because of the death and resurrection of Jesus for you, because of His Word of life proclaimed to you today, you can, by faith, be in Jesus Christ as a gift given and as a gift received! Do you know that? Do you believe that? Or, are you still standing outside in a blizzard of hopelessness? Are you overwhelmed by the stinging winds of hurt or failure in this cold world? Take heart today! To be in means everything! That's something Funatsu learned, at least in this world. He stayed by his skis for ten minutes, hoping the blizzard would slow down. But it got stronger. He tried to find the first ski closer to his tent, but the wind sent him off course. Suddenly, he couldn't find either ski. He started to shout for help, but the wind muffled his voice. He was so close to camp, but he was lost outside! Funatsu dug through the icy surface. He fashioned a shallow snow cave in order to stay warm. The blowing snow, though, covered him very quickly. He kept shouting, but as darkness fell, he knew he would be outside overnight. Could he survive? Could he hang in there? It wouldn't take long for the cold to overwhelm him, the elements to overpower him. But, as dawn came, with his feet freezing, Funatsu heard a faint voice crying his name over and over again. People were looking for him, searching for him, to bring him back inside where there was safety, warmth, medicine, and food to survive. He saw one of his colleagues coming right toward him. He was saved! Funatsu said, "I was very happy to see the people looking for me in the blizzard. I felt...love-everyone had watering eyes, crying and wet. I cried, yes, I cried too." When you are overwhelmed by being outside, on your own, failing in your sins, flailing in your efforts, and broken by all that seems so out of your control, isn't it amazing to hear that help is looking for you? In fact, that's the picture that Paul paints about God. He doesn't just tell you to be in Christ, he says Christ comes looking for you and for me to make that happen. Because of our sin, we disconnect ourselves from the God who loves us. We remain trapped outside of joy, outside of peace, outside of strength, outside of help. Yet the Bible proclaims you have Someone seeking you. God says, "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine" (Isaiah 43:1). Your Savior is calling your name, coming all the way to you with His grace, and mercy, and peace. He came to seek you and to save you. He rescues you so you can have life in Him! Being in Him changes your life.  In Christ, God calls you inside His loving arms, offering you forgiveness and strength for life now and forever. Being in Christ does mean that you are found by your Savior who is seeking you, with forgiveness for your sins and failures. But being in Christ also means having the power that faith in Him brings; to face the rigors and trials of life with strength and power that only being in Him can provide. You might say, "In Christ you have an eternal buoyancy when life is sinking. In Christ you have a life-giving source of oxygen when life is closing in all around you." Buoyancy, breathing....just another way to describe the power of being in versus out. But, you didn't have to tell John Capes that. Capes was a sailor on a British submarine during World War II. As the submarine recharged its batteries at the surface of the sea off the coast of Greece, it hit a mine. The explosion rocked the submarine, tore it open, and sent it plunging to the bottom of the ocean. More than 250 feet below the surface, John Capes found himself thrown from his bunk and scrambling to survive. In the pitch-darkness he located a flashlight as his compartment filled with seawater. He dragged any surviving sailors he could find to the escape hatch and he placed an emergency breathing and buoyancy device on them. They clamored into the escape chamber. The depth of the submarine was more than twice the maximum tested depth for the equipment, but Capes had no choice. He opened the hatch and the air pulled him upward through the sea. His lungs felt like they would burst, but soon he found himself being tossed at the surface by the waves. None of his comrades survived, but Capes made it through a disaster in a miraculous way. John Capes survived because he was in a place where there was life-saving oxygen. In a damaged and disabled submarine, Capes had an escape chamber and a breathing device. In a place where everything was sinking, Capes was in a location inside that provided real escape. Well, for the things that really matter, the eternal things of God, the Bible declares that Jesus is that inside place of grace and life. It says, "He is before all things, and in him all things hold together" (Colossians 1:17).  In fact, nothing else in the world holds, and protects, and saves like faith in Him; or as Paul says, nothing"will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 8:39).  Do you find yourself in the middle of a situation that makes you feel trapped? Do you feel helpless in the face of adversity and suffering? Well, dear friend, God is your Refuge and Strength right now. He is your ever-present Help during times of trouble. He is listening to your prayers. He is responding with peace that is even beyond your understanding and circumstances. Most of all, you are not alone. That's the power of faith in Christ. He is with you and will never leave you nor forsake you. Take heart! He will see you through. John Capes survived the sinking of the sub but he could have still been lost and alone as he bobbed in the rough seas off the coast of Greece. After making his way to shore, he was found unconscious by two fishermen. Remember, this was a time of war and a British sailor was in grave danger in territory occupied by the enemy. But Capes said, "Always, at the moment of despair, some utterly poor but friendly and patriotic islander would risk the lives of all of his family for my sake." In fact, they not only did that for a moment, they gave him everything he needed for a year and a half, until he was finally rescued by a British ship and taken home! That's just a glimpse of the persevering, sacrificing love that God has made available to you in His Son Jesus Christ. Your time of trial may last for a while. It may take some time for you to be brought through your grief and hardship, but you have a God who risked everything for your sake. He sent His One and only Son to deliver you from death. The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus show you how serious God is about your rescue. You can take heart in all things when your faith is in Christ! But there is even more. Your life is not merely a struggle to be overcome; it is an adventure in Christ for others. You and I not only get to receive the blessings of our Savior; we get to share them. Saved, even safe in our Savior's arms, we get to be ambassadors of His hope, His forgiveness, and His grace. One of my favorite movies is Apollo 13. It recounts the story of a successful failure lunar mission that almost killed three astronauts aboard just after Neil Armstrong's historic walk on the moon. You may remember what happened. As the spacecraft made its way towards the moon, an oxygen tank exploded, damaging the main spacecraft. The three astronauts had to use everything at their disposal to return home safely. But, they weren't alone. Not only did the lunar module encase them with needed oxygen, water, and safety, back on earth, there were teams of experts rallying to chart their course and troubleshoot every obstacle that presented itself to bring them home. The flight team, led by Gene Kranz, had to devise a plan to use the moon's gravity to bring a broken ship back to earth. Astronauts and engineers on the ground developed procedures to power up the spacecraft with the very last ounce of energy that the ship had, so that the exhausted flyers could reenter the earth's atmosphere safely. And all of this was done under the pressure of time constraints.  In the day and age before computers, the team used slide rules to determine engineering needed for all of that; then they determined the exact pressure needed to provide a safe scenario for the spaceship's return to earth. The three astronauts, Jim Lovell, Jack Swigert, and Fred Haise, were in real danger, but even more importantly, they were in very good hands. Well, today, my friends, so are you. As you make your way through life in this world, you are in good hands in Christ. As you face the challenges of life, no matter what they are, you are in good hands when you put your faith in Him. And, even when you try to share the love of Jesus with your family, or do your best to witness to people at work, or walk in the ways of Christ as you live your life, you don't have to be afraid because He is with you, protecting you, guiding you in all that you do in Him. God is always working on your behalf and mine. He charted your way home through Jesus who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He equips you with His Word and sacraments. He gives you the gift of prayer so that you can cast all your cares upon Him, receiving His consolation and help. Your gracious God gives you everything you need for this adventure we call life. Paul testified to this gracious provision saying, "The grace of our Lord overflowed for me with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus" (1 Timothy 1:14). Even the love you show and the witness you give, they're not your own works. The Bible says, "For we are [God's] workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them" (Ephesians 2:10).  When life is in Christ by faith, success is sweeter, failure is temporary, and trial is something to be overcome for a greater victory forever with Him in heaven.  Decades after the Apollo 13 incident, former mission control leaders described what could have been viewed as a total failure as NASA's finest hour. A disaster was transformed into a triumph.  When you are in Christ, even your failures, even the great disasters in your life, can be transformed by God into spiritual triumphs. The Bible says with confidence, "We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28 NIV). You can trust God with your most difficult and devastating experiences. You can depend on God during your most daunting challenges. You can entrust the people you love to God for His mercy and grace. Your Savior God graciously provides you with security for life's adventure as you make your way through it and make His difference in the lives of people around you.  The cross of Jesus Christ, His brutal death for our sins, at first it looked like a real tragedy; but that was the place of God's finest hour as His Son died to save you and me. The trials we face in this life, the crosses that you and I might bear, can become our finest hour too as God uses your difficulties to bring new life to you and to others. Remember that you are in Him and that changes everything. What a difference it is to be in Christ. You're not out in the cold. You're not lost and helpless. You're not out on your own, shipwrecked in danger and hopelessness. You're not flying solo in life, out of touch with any help or direction. You are in Jesus Christ. That's God's promise to you today. It's delivered through His living Word proclaimed to you at this very moment. It is poured into your life through His holy baptism. It is made real as the presence of Christ dwells in you through His Supper. Don't let your sins and straying leave you out in the cold today. Don't let your trials make you believe you are out of God's care. Don't let your weaknesses make you think you're outside of God's plan or purpose. No, dear friend, you have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer you who live, but Christ who lives in you! Because of His grace, through faith in Him, you are included in the promise of His forgiveness and His eternal life. You're not on the outside when you put your faith in Him! Listen to God's Word today. Listen and believe it for yourself: "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he has lavished upon us." That's the power to live life now and forever. God bless you! Amen. LUTHERAN HOUR MAILBOX (Questions & Answers) for July 12, 2015  Topic: Do I Have to Go to Church to Be Saved? ANNOUNCER: Do we have to go to church in order to be saved? That's today's question for Pastor Gregory Seltz. I'm Mark Eischer. People excuse their absence by saying they can find God in nature, while they're fishing or even out on the golf course.  SELTZ: Now, Mark, I don't know if I can find God on the golf course. Some people see miracles there; I mostly see clear evidence of original sin. ANNOUNCER: Even so, church attendance isn't necessary for salvation, is it? SELTZ: It's a great question, but I think it's a bit sad too. Church is something we get to do, not something we have to do. Believers gather to receive Christ's gifts, to encourage one another, to pray. Gathering for worship is not a requirement for salvation; it's a blessing of being saved. ANNOUNCER: Would you say this question comes from a somewhat wrong understanding of Christianity, as if we need to please God in order to be saved? SELTZ: That's a great point. For a lot of religions, going to a sanctuary is something you must do to please God. The Bible clearly debunks that saying that "Nothing we do can earn our salvation because we are incapable of even approaching God properly." The Bible says "no one is righteous" (Romans 3:10). "We all sin and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). "We are actually dead in our sins and transgressions" (Ephesians 2:1).  ANNOUNCER: And that's what makes being brought to Christ's church so special, right? SELTZ: Yes, there you don't just hear about our need, you hear how God graciously solves our greatest problems and offers His salvation and solution as a gift! The Bible says, "God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, He made us alive in Jesus-by grace you have been saved-" (Ephesians 2:4-5 ESV). ANNOUNCER: So whether it's going to church--or doing anything else that might be perceived as good or godly-that's not going to earn our salvation. SELTZ: Exactly. Going to church, living a good life, a godly life, are actually results of being saved by grace. We call them fruits of faith. I love how the Apostle Paul outlined this for early believers. In Ephesians 4 and 5, he said, "Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." And then I love how he says it this way, "Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us" (Ephesians 4:31-5:2). You see, a Christian life flows from God's love and Jesus' sacrifice for us.  ANNOUNCER: In contrast to all other religions, Christianity is not a have-to way of life; it's a get-to way of life.  SELTZ: And that's another reason we get to gather with fellow believers. We get to encourage one another. We get to receive the gifts of God's Word and sacraments together.  ANNOUNCER: The book of Hebrews puts it this way: "Let us consider how to stir one another up to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near" (Hebrews 10:24-25). SELTZ: That's a great verse. You hear the get-to emphasis in it. We get to make a difference in other people's lives. We get to meet together. It's important--especially as times get difficult and the day of Christ's return gets closer. ANNOUNCER: It all highlights the value of being part of a faith community. SELTZ: I'm glad you mentioned that, too. Let's think a little bit about God's wisdom in creating the church. Remember, the church is not a building; it is the saved people of God through Jesus. In a lonely and isolated world, think about the value of a community founded on God's unconditional love, new beginnings through Christ's forgiveness of sins, and constant strengthening through Christ's gifts.  ANNOUNCER: All of which we need!  SELTZ: Yes, think about the value of some Sabbath time--time away from our multi-tasking environment, our always-connected lives--to rest, to be refreshed by the hope, peace, and strength that Jesus provides....and even this, time for prayer, for reflection, for gratitude, and generosity. That's church. ANNOUNCER: Remembering that Christians are, at the same time, both saints and sinners. That means churches won't be perfect. SELTZ: No. No church is a perfect place, but it's meant to be a community of new lives in Jesus Christ, receiving God's encouragement, encouraging one another, and we're making an eternal difference in the world in which we live. That's huge.  ANNOUNCER: So, the answer: by God's grace, we get to go to church.  SELTZ: Absolutely.  ANNOUNCER: Thank you, Pastor Seltz. This has been a presentation of Lutheran Hour Ministries. Action in Ministry for July 12, 2015  Guest: Dr. Carol Geisler ANNOUNCER: You're listening to The Lutheran Hour and next we're going to talk about a hidden treasure and how God brought it back into the light almost 500 years ago. That's all described in a new resource titled: A Treasure Revealed: Martin Luther and the Events of the Reformation, and joining us today is the author, Dr. Carol Geisler. Carol, thanks for joining us. GEISLER: Thank you for the opportunity. SELTZ: It's great to have you with us, Carol. ANNOUNCER: My wife came up with a great description of this booklet. She says it's Luther in a nutshell. SELTZ: There you go. ANNOUNCER: Could you tell us, Carol, what does this book cover? GEISLER: It covers the basic events of Luther's life; his studies of Scripture, his life in the monastery, his lecturing on the Bible. Then it covers his 95 Theses and then the events that really were set in motion by that as he came into conflict with the leadership of the church. And then it follows all the way through his life and the experiences he had. And then a little bit into the events of the Lutheran church and how it began, how it got started, and also, then, a few of his key teachings. That's how it ends. ANNOUNCER: Very good. Who did you have in mind when you wrote this?  GEISLER: I was thinking of readers who might be a little unfamiliar with the story of Luther or not know anything about him at all. I used to be a school principal and we often had parents come to our school who knew that Lutheran education was a good thing, but they weren't at all familiar with Lutheran teachings, or probably not even who Martin Luther really was. And I thought the booklet would help people like that, but I was also hoping that, in the story of Luther looking for...in his search for a merciful God, people reading the booklet, that if they were searching for that merciful God, too, they might see something of their own life in Luther's search; and that they might come to know Jesus Christ through seeing what happened and what transpired in his life. ANNOUNCER: Excellent. SELTZ: And that's an incredible thing. In fact, what I was thinking as you were talking there, your title A Treasure Revealed; in some sense we're talking about Luther, but what a message. That message compelled him. Why did you choose that title, A Treasure Revealed?  GEISLER: Well, it's the idea that the treasure of the Gospel, the Good News of Jesus, it's always been there. It's always been there in Scripture for us, but it was obscured through some of the teachings of the church at that time, in the 16th century, it wasn't necessarily just that Luther discovered it, it was that God revealed it to him as he studied Holy Scripture. So, in that sense, it was a treasure revealed by the grace of God in his study, in his preparation for his lectures that he came to see that that merciful God had, in fact, found him in Christ Jesus. That's the message that he had to share and the message we have to share.  SELTZ: That's an incredible thing because even in our work here, we find that people think they're searching for God, they don't realize that God is searching for them with the message that really does hold.  ANNOUNCER: And it's important to emphasize that the Reformation is not about an innovation in the church, but it's a rediscovery. GEISLER: Right. SELTZ: Right. ANNOUNCER: ...finding that hidden treasure and once again God bringing it to life through the efforts of Martin Luther and others. SELTZ: And that's the next question too, then, obviously this is about something that happened, but it's still relevant today. And, again, you were already hinting at that as well. Talk a little bit more about that. Why do these ideas and events of the 16th century still matter in the 21st century?  GEISLER: That search for a merciful God; that is still going on in people's lives. They are still looking for answers. They're still hungry for...maybe they're looking for a kind of spirituality. Maybe they don't even know what they are looking for. But, God is still searching for them and so the teachings that Luther discovered that he saw revealed in Holy Scripture are the teachings that people need to hear today...that Jesus is still the Good Shepherd looking for the lost and that He is still the merciful God that people need to know. Music Selections for this program: "A Mighty Fortress" arranged by Chris Bergmann. Used by permission. "Jesus, Priceless Treasure" From The Concordia Organist (© 2009 Concordia Publishing House) "Almighty God, Your Word Is Cast" 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 / sign-up for plain text / visit our website   660 Mason Ridge Center Dr. St. Louis, MO 63141 1-800-876-9880 www.lhm.org

Sign Up for St. John's Little Lambs Golf Tournament - August 8

Welcome Friends and Past Participants.  Thank you for your past participation in our annual golf tournament benefiting Little Lambs Preschool.

This year's outing is coming up fast!  Only a few weeks remain until Saturday, August 8, when we will tee off once again at Country Lake Golf Club in Warrenton, MIssouri.  

In the past, it seems that many folks have had trouble fielding a 4-man team, so this year we will be trying out a 2-man format to make it easier for you.  Of course, we encourage you to recruit as many players as you can - friends, family, spouses -  the more the merrier and support for the cause!  If you wish to be paired up on a tee-box with another team, just let me know and I'll try to arrange it.  We have also lowered the entry fee to ONLY $50 per player and that includes lunch.

More details are on the attached file with entry flier and directions to the golf course. My email list may not be complete, so feel free to forward this to others who may be interested.  Contact me if you have any questions.  We look forward to having you join us on Saturday, August 8.

Alan Hofeldt

Event Coordinator

636-456-3070

alanhofeldt@yahoo.com

The Lutheran Hour: July 5, 2015 "God's Recipe for a Successful Life"

Sermon Text for July 5, 2015  "God's Recipe for a Successful Life" #82-44 Presented on The Lutheran Hour on July 5, 2015 By Rev. Gregory Seltz, Lutheran Hour Speaker (Were Our Nation's Founders Christians?) Copyright 2015 Lutheran Hour Ministries     Text: 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 Therefore, in order to keep me from being conceited, (the apostle Paul said), I was given a thorn in my flesh...to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. In the Name of the One Who is, Who was, and Who is coming again to judge the living and the dead, Jesus our Savior. Amen. Have you ever had what I like to call a recipe reality check? How about saying it this way? "Have you ever had a baking disaster?" You know what I mean: instead of adding sugar, like the recipe said, you added salt; or you lost track of the ingredients and forgot the baking powder; or you were certain the recipe called for an oven heated to 450 degrees for 60 minutes--but judging by the smoke pouring out of the oven, you must have misread the instructions. Recipe reality check: cakes fall, cookies flop, brownies burn, and treats turn out wrong when the recipe isn't followed quite correctly. One small miscalculation can cause a baking disaster. Well, what about life? Your life? My life? What is the recipe for a successful life? Is it going to school, getting a job, getting married, having kids, and retiring to a quiet lake house somewhere? Is it spicing up life with some adventure--traveling the world, taking adventure trips, seeing and experiencing unending excitement? Is it achieving financial success, becoming famous, or making your mark in a profession; even gaining street smarts so that you can navigate the rough world out there? Or, is it closer to home, being dedicated to family, to community? What is the recipe for a successful life? A man named Saul thought he knew the formula. His family heritage put him in a position to be revered by others. He was schooled by the best teachers. He was qualified for the most esteemed groups of leaders. He was a brilliant young prodigy in his field and admired by his peers and his elders. But this pathway to success grew something unhealthy in him. Saul became arrogant. He started to feel as if he was better than others. He began to look down on people. He lost a sense of compassion and understanding. Patience ebbed from his life. He became judgmental and hateful. You may have heard Saul's story before. He lived in the first century and became part of a group of people who hunted down Christians in order to imprison them, persecute them, even kill them. The seemingly successful recipe for Saul's life turned very sour. I wonder if you're like Saul today. Even though the best ingredients have been poured into your life, very slowly you've lost your sense of compassion, patience, and love for others. Your temper is short, or your heart has grown cold, or even worse, you feel like you've failed and any second chances seem to have run out. Wasted opportunities....life lost. But, maybe that's not you at all. Maybe you've had more than your share of bad breaks. Perhaps your level of grief and suffering has been much higher than others. The death of loved ones, the experience of abuse, or the ravages of illness have plagued you. You know this is not the way life should be. You wonder if it's even possible to have a good life, a happy life, a successful life. What's the recipe? Is a successful life really possible? Today I want to give you a fast and simple, but not simplistic, answer. Yes! Yes, a successful life is still possible for you and for me. If your life is broken, if your heart feels cold, or if what you thought was promising has fallen through, you still have the opportunity to have a successful life. How? The same way Saul did. He met the Author, the Redeemer, the Giver of life, Jesus Christ. Now, his story is a bit unique, maybe you've heard it. Jesus stopped Saul in his tracks as he traveled to a town to persecute Christians. Jesus appeared to him in a blinding light and asked him why he was on such a rampage. Then Jesus gave Saul instructions. He was to go to a house and wait. Can you imagine what Saul went through as he waited? He was blind. He was in shock. He was probably scared. Was this Jesus going to get revenge? Was God going to zap Saul for his arrogant and violent behavior? Was God going to punish Saul for not appreciating all the good things in his life that were gifts from God? God didn't do any of that. Instead, He sent a man to heal Saul's sight and to baptize him so he could be filled with the Holy Spirit--forgiven of his sins and renewed in life. He met the gracious Savior, Jesus Christ, and he put his faith in Him, he followed Him in all things. That, my friend, is the key to a successful life. In fact, that's the definition of a successful, eternal life: one that is forgiven, restored, and renewed in Christ alone.  But, that good life, that successful life wasn't just meant for Saul. This message is for you, for me, for all! That's the life you are given through the death and resurrection of your Savior, Jesus Christ. This is the life you receive when you are baptized and filled with the Spirit of God. This may be simple, straight forward, but it is not simplistic. It literally took the Son of God coming from His throne in heaven, born in the flesh on Christmas Day, to live your life perfectly, to die your death sacrificially, to take your judgment on Himself, to give you His gracious, eternal, joy-filled life as a pure gift. That's what it means to believe in Him.  In Him, you are forgiven and renewed. In Him, you have a new beginning, another chance, renewed, restored, and at peace forever with Jesus. Did Saul deserve it? Not at all. Did Saul earn it? No. Do you deserve it? Can you earn it? No. But God gives it to you because He loves you and does not want to lose you. He doesn't want you living your life in hopelessness, in sadness, or in eternal meaninglessness. So He sent His only Son, Jesus, to change the ingredients of your life. What's the recipe for a successful life? It's very simple: the fullness of Jesus and less of you.  That's what Saul talked about to a group of rough-around-the-edges followers of Jesus who lived in the city of Corinth. He opened up his life to them. He told them his story. He revealed his weaknesses. By this time Saul was being called by the name you might be more familiar with, Paul, who was an Apostle of God's grace in Jesus to others!  You see, Paul was no longer persecuting Jesus; he was promoting Jesus. In our reading today, it was to the people in Corinth. They were the most unlikely people to become Christians too. Corinth was the "sin city" of its time. But these people craved a new beginning, and, in Jesus Christ, that's the gift they received. Urging them to grow into a truly successful life, Paul gave them the recipe from his own experience. He said: But JESUS said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me......For when I am weak, then I am strong (2 Corinthians 12:9-10). Did you hear the recipe? As Paul wrestled with his affliction and suffering, Jesus let Paul know that the fullness of His grace was the answer. More of Jesus' power would help Paul through. Paul realized that he would be content with his own weaknesses because the less strength he had in and of himself, the more Christ's power could take hold of him. That's the recipe for a successful life: the fullness of Jesus and less reliance on yourself. Think about it: less of your ego; less of your worrying; less of your efforts to control everything; less of the anger that courses through your mind and heart; less of your guilt and beating yourself up; less of your grief and woundedness welling up inside of you; and more of Jesus, less of you. What does that life look like in practice? It is more of Jesus' grace and forgiveness in your life as you hear His promises new every day; it is more of Jesus' unconditional love as He leads you out of your failures and connects you with people who truly care about you; it is more of Jesus' peace as you go to Him in prayer and trust in Him to respond; it is more of Jesus' healing as He takes your burdens and wounds off of your shoulders and out of your psyche so you can live as a new creation in Him; it is more of Jesus' leadership and wisdom as He puts you on a new path of life, and guides you faithfully in His steps. Now that's a recipe for a successful life. Paul knew that the more he tried to be in charge, or the more he attempted to take over, or the more he dwelled on himself and what was in it for him, the weaker he became. But if he acknowledged his weakness, if he confessed his faults, and if he trusted the grace and power of Jesus, the stronger he became. Scott Barry Kaufman wrote an article in Psychology Today called, "How to Win American Idol." In his commentary, the author analyzed the contestants and winners of the popular television reality show. What was his conclusion about how to win? It wasn't good looks or even talent. It was something he called an "X-factor," a complex blend of characteristics that no one can manufacture, manipulate, or predict. Kaufman said that you can't really win by trying or just by believing in yourself. Essentially, he said, "You either have it or you don't." Trying too hard will guarantee a loss. You need less of you and more of something you can't fully control or even quantify. Does that sound somewhat familiar? Jesus said to Paul, here's the real solution to real life, "My power is made perfect in weakness" (2 Corinthians 12:9). When there's less of you in the way, the grace and power of Jesus Christ will prevail. You see, Jesus gave all of Himself for you. He offered up His life and carried all of your fears, failures, grief, and brokenness upon His shoulders. He let it put an end to His life. He let it crush Him in order to lift you up and make you whole. Jesus sacrificed a successful life when He hung on the cross. He let all of Himself be destroyed and separated completely from God for you. But then God the Father raised Him from the dead. The sacrifice for you and me was accepted. And now Jesus lives to dwell in you completely, to forgive you and renew you, to give you a successful life on His terms: more of Jesus, your living Savior, and less of the broken and burdened you. Do you remember what John the Baptist said about his life when Jesus showed up? He said, "He must increase, but I must decrease" (John 3:30). John the Baptist understood the recipe for a successful life. Even Paul echoed that when he shared the recipe for a successful life with the Christians in the city of Galatia. He said, "I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself up for me" (Galatians 2:20).  As we remember our freedom this time of year, we see that some of our nation's most prominent and able leaders felt the same way. Abraham Lincoln, for instance, was such a man. When Harriet Beecher Stowe, renowned author of "Uncle Tom's Cabin," interviewed Abraham Lincoln for a magazine article in the midst of the Civil War, Stowe commented about the president: "We see evidence in passing through this dreadful national crisis he has been forced by the very anguish of struggle to look upward, where any rational creature must look for support." Oh that you and I would do that today....more of Jesus, less of ourselves. Here's some quotes from Lincoln from a website called "Abraham Lincoln's Classroom." You see, Lincoln realized this too. He said this, "That the Almighty does make use of human agencies, and directly intervenes in human affairs, is one of the plainest statements of the Bible. I have had so many evidences of His directions, so many instances when I have been controlled by some other power than my own will, and I cannot doubt that this power comes from above." It is often during your times of emptiness that you see the fullness of Jesus' presence. That was true for Paul, true for Lincoln, true for all who put their faith in Jesus. In fact, Lincoln had seen God's powerful hand many times before in the lives of God's people. Gilbert Greene, one of Lincoln's colleagues, told a story of when they visited a dying woman at her request, to help her with her will. Now that's a business situation, right? What's faith and Scripture have to do with that? They arrived when the woman had but a few hours to live. After the will had been written, signed, and witnessed, the dying woman said to Mr. Lincoln, - 'Now, I have my affairs in this world arranged satisfactorily. I have also made preparation for the life to come. I do not fear death. I am glad that I am soon to meet those who have gone before me.'  Mr. Lincoln replied, - 'Your faith in God is strong. Your hope of a future life is blessed.' She asked him then if he would read a few verses from the Bible. Now, again, you wouldn't expect a businessman to be ready to do something like that, right? He began reciting immediately from memory the 23rd Psalm. Then he quoted the first part of the 14th chapter of John where it says, - 'In my father's house are many mansions; if it were not so,' Jesus said, 'I would have told you.' After he had given these and other quotations from the Scriptures he recited several hymns, closing with 'Rock of Ages, Cleft for me.'  On the way home, it was reported that Lincoln realized what was truly happening when he said, "God and eternity were very near today." During times of hardship and suffering the recipe for a successful life is more of Jesus, less of each of us. But, you may be thinking....Pastor, it's great to hear about how God's recipe for life works in the lives of others; but how about me? How about you? Will you go forward with this new life today, dear friend? Will you be content with Him alone? Will you even rejoice that in your weaknesses, the strength and the grace of Jesus Christ is in you and for you? Will you show the love of Jesus when antagonists assail you? Will you respond with prayer when pressure builds? Will you follow the ways of God when temptation assaults you? Will you express trust in your risen Savior when hopelessness tries to hold you captive? Will you seek peace when arguments try to prevail? Will you seek to serve others and share your hope in Jesus when your ego seeks its own perks and pleasure? Will you seek to make the eternal impression of Jesus on the world not the fleeting mark of your own fame? That's a recipe for a successful life because it trusts in Christ alone in all things. By faith in Him, let God bless you with His promises, that in all things, "His grace is sufficient for you. His power is made perfect in weakness." That's life to live, to celebrate, to share and it can be yours today by faith! Amen. ACTION IN MINISTRY for July 5, 2015 Guest: Ancella Gregory  ANNOUNCER: You are listening to The Lutheran Hour. This is Action In Ministry, a call to action in response to all that God has done for us in Jesus Christ. Today we're going to hear about something that would probably get someone arrested or maybe hauled off to court if they were to try it here in the U.S. and Canada and that is to talk about Jesus in school. But that is what our Ministry Center in Jamaica is doing. In fact, the school invited them in to talk with students and even start an after-school Bible club. Joining us via Skype is our ministry center Director in Jamaica, Ancella Gregory. Ancella, thanks for joining us. GREGORY: Thank you. ANNOUNCER: Sad to say, Jesus has been expelled from our schools here. How was it that you were invited to bring a Bible-based message to students in Jamaica and why are you allowed to do this? GREGORY: Well, in Jamaica, the schools do devotions in schools and then after that I introduced my Bible club to them and they agreed.  ANNOUNCER: And what is the purpose of your presentation that you make to the general students, those who are part of the whole student body? GREGORY: A devotion, to bring a message from the Bible; put a regular story of what is happening in Jamaica with that. And then show them how the Lord is involved in that.  ANNOUNCER: And what do you cover in your after-school Bible club? GREGORY: Okay. We start with the naming of the books of the Bible because some children do not know the names of the books in the Bible or they don't know where to find it. So, that's a basic knowledge of the Bible first and then we start to go through the Bible with stories that will excite them, and then we can bring things that is happening to them in Jamaica or what is happening now that is in the Bible and then we can see how the Lord works with us through these situations.  ANNOUNCER: Does the school put any limits on what you can say in the after-school Bible club? GREGORY: No. We're just giving the story or just the basic Bible knowledge. That's okay.  ANNOUNCER: And you're also able to share with them the message of Jesus; that it's not just God wanting to make us nicer people but God is wanting to save us through what Jesus has done for us. GREGORY: Yes. That's what we do. ANNOUNCER: Now tell us about these students who complete this course. I understand they receive their very own Bible. GREGORY: Yes, they do. That was given to us by Pastor Scheer, who passed a few months ago. His church donated those Bibles to us. And each student who has gone through a certain limited time through our Bible class, we award them with a Bible and a certificate that they have done well. And some of them, they have received the Bible for the first time. So, you know, that is exciting to them. ANNOUNCER: What does that mean to them? What do they tell you? GREGORY: They appreciate the Bible and they said now they can now find the books that we already have taught them and they know where they are now. For instance, a child went to school and the teacher asked her how many books are there in the Old Testament and she was the only one hand that was up and she was so excited about that because she was the first child who did that in class. ANNOUNCER: And how can our listeners help you? GREGORY: They can tune in to our blog on our Facebook to see what we are doing and give us some feedback. And if there is any need for any help that they can assist us, I'll greatly appreciate it. ANNOUNCER: We've been talking with Ancella Gregory, the Director of our Ministry Center in Kingston, Jamaica and we'd also like to take this opportunity to greet our listeners in Jamaica. The Lutheran Hour is carried there. Ancella, thanks for being with us. GREGORY: You're welcome! LUTHERAN HOUR MAILBOX (Questions & Answers) for Jul 05, 2015 Topic: Were Our Nation's Founders Christians? ANNOUNCER: Now, Pastor Gregory Seltz responds to questions from listeners. I'm Mark Eischer. Pastor, a listener wants to know about the founders of the United States and their faith. Were they Christians?  SELTZ: Mark, there are a number of misconceptions about these leaders. You've probably heard some of the modern myths. ANNOUNCER: Yeah, some say that they were deists, some say they were atheists. SELTZ: Atheists, of course, are people who do not believe there is a God. And, Deists claim that there is a natural knowledge of God apart from religious sources and that God is not closely involved with the world. I've heard it described this way; that that kind of belief is God wound up the world like a wind-up toy and then He let it go on its own. ANNOUNCER: Well, are those assessments true? SELTZ: None of these people were atheists, that's for sure. And, while it may be true that some of them were not devoted orthodox Christians or endorsers of the whole Bible, maybe even organized religion, even that group was a very small minority. The fact is that more than half of the signers of the Declaration of the Independence had degrees from seminaries or Bible schools. Many were very devoted and outspoken believers in Jesus. ANNOUNCER: How about some examples? SELTZ: Let's start with some of the more controversial figures. Benjamin Franklin, well, this is what he said, "He who shall introduce into public affairs the principles of primitive Christianity will change the face of the world." And he meant that for good. And then there's Thomas Jefferson. He promoted the study of the Bible and endorsed Christian education as the best defense of our nation. ANNOUNCER: Now, for many, these men weren't anything close to devoted Christians in any orthodox sense. SELTZ: And they'd be right! But many others, like John Quincy Adams, connected the birth of the United States to the birth of the Savior, Jesus. He said that "the Declaration of Independence first organized the social compact on the foundation of the Redeemer's mission upon earth..." and that "it laid the corner stone of human government upon the first precepts of Christianity."  ANNOUNCER: To varying degrees, these men were immersed in Christian faith and some were even more direct in their testimony.  SELTZ: For example, Samuel Adams is fairly well known. In his will he said, "I rely on the merits of Jesus Christ for a pardon for all my sins." Many others gave great testimonies to their faith in Jesus in their wills. Benjamin Rush, he's a signer of the Declaration of Independence, he also founded a Bible Society. He said this, "My only hope of salvation is in the infinite, transcendent love of God in Jesus Christ. I rely exclusively upon it. Come, Lord Jesus! Come quickly!" ANNOUNCER: Now, why is this discussion important for our listeners, especially those who are not in the United States? SELTZ: The point, I think, is that it shows how committed faith, and politics, and freedom...they are not at odds like people say so much today. In fact, the Biblical worldview has unleashed not only spiritual, eternal freedom onto the world....it has even blessed many with political and individual freedoms not known before in history.  ANNOUNCER: So, it sounds like faith and Biblical principles guided much of the thinking behind the freedoms they established. SELTZ: That too would be true. But let me say it this way....what needs to be understood about the uniqueness of many of these leaders is that they knew that the establishment of a state religion, or even a secularized public religion was not the way to go for real freedom. In fact, they wanted to limit the state's power and set the religious citizen free to do what was right, motivated by faith! That's the first amendment! ANNOUNCER: So as our listeners in the United States celebrate freedom this week, people around the world can think about the Biblical foundations of freedom, not just in politics, but in our lives now and forever in Christ! SELTZ: And that might be the best thing about what these early leaders set in motion. They knew that the Christian faith is to be proclaimed and believed freely. And to guard freedom, it should be lived out boldly, freely in service to our neighbors.  ANNOUNCER: The Bible is also clear that the church has its job in the world, and the state has its particular job as well. SELTZ: Yes, for more on that, our TV special, "The Intersection of Church and State," is a great resource. Folks can call in and get that DVD if they wish!  ANNOUNCER: Thank you, Pastor Seltz. We acknowledge the faith of our founders, but we also understand our calling as Christ's church to believe and confess this precious faith in Jesus Christ. This has been a presentation of Lutheran Hour Ministries. Music Selections for this program: "A Mighty Fortress" arranged by Chris Bergmann. Used by permission. "God Bless Our Native Land" From The Concordia Organist (© 2009 Concordia Publishing House) "Before You, Lord, We Bow" 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 / sign-up for plain text / visit our website   660 Mason Ridge Center Dr. St. Louis, MO 63141 1-800-876-9880 www.lhm.org

Thursday, July 2, 2015

DEVOTION: 
"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witnesses to Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.  Acts 1:8
 
Last week even though I wasn't wearing any pastor garb, just bike shorts and a Lead a Child bike shirt, I had plenty of opportunities to share my faith.  I didn't have to force anything.  I didn't have to carry tracts around and thump people over the head with my Bible to get them to listen.  I just had to be myself and actually talk to people.  It would just come out. 
 
I had a reason to be there.  I was there to support and raise money for leadachild.org, and I wore their bike shirt for two off the four days.  So people would come up to me and ask me what it was about, and I would tell them that we were raising money so that kids in third world countries could go to Christian schools.  Eventually, if the conversation would go far enough, I would get into what it means to be a Christian and how Jesus loves us no matter who we are, what our background is, or where we come from. 
 
That's it.  It's just that simple.  We make it too complicated.  We think we have to dress up the Gospel in all sorts of fancy clothes and parade it around with all sorts of make-up to make people like it.  All the time, the GOSPEL, the good news that Jesus, God made flesh, loved us so much that he came down from heaven to earth to suffer, die, and rise again so that we can live forever, can do just fine all by itself!  The Holy Spirit just gives it to us so that we can experience the joy in sharing it over and over and over again. 
 
Even after 14 years as a pastor, I have to pinch myself as I realize what I get to do for a living.  I get to be the delivery man for God.  I deliver his grace to people in nursing homes as I bring them God's Word and the Lord's Supper.  I get to deliver the good news to people in hospitals as they are suffering from illness or injury.  I get to deliver the good news to people whose loved one has died at funeral homes and in funerals.  I get to deliver the good news as people come to my office for counsel for their marriages, for help with their kids, or just to pray.  I get to deliver God's Word and sacraments into the hearts and lives of people as they gather for worship every weekend.  I am the delivery man for God.  What a special privilege! 
 
Sometimes it gets discouraging when people's ears, hearts, and lives are closed to hearing the message and receiving it.  It is also discouraging when people attack the message as if it is some sort of false or wrong message, when I know it isn't.  It is especially discouraging when people don't care about the message and treat it as if it is worthless junk mail, or when they dismiss it as if it was just another thing.  That really gets me discouraged and upset. 
 
Still, I have to remember that I am only the messenger.  I need to deliver the message as best as I can and then get out of the way and let the message and the one who sent the message do the work.  I have to remember that I need to be excited about the message and love the message so much that I don't do anything to get in its way or to ruin it before it gets to the recipient.  Mostly, I just need to stay out of the way and just let the message do its work. 
 
I want to encourage you to do the same.  While I get to do it all day every day, you are messengers too.  You can deliver the message to your coworker who is hurting.  You can deliver it to your boss who needs to hear some good news.  You can deliver it to your kids to show them how much you love them.  You can deliver it to your spouse as you share words of forgiveness after he has messed up for the hundredth time.  I could go on and on.  I just want you to be God's delivery men and I know that God wants you to too! 
 
Let us pray:  Lord help me be your delivery person today and then get out of your way.  Amen.
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YESTERDAY'S QUIZ: How many chapters are there in the book of Isaiah?  66, the same as the number of books in the Bible
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TODAY'S QUIZ: Name three countries that God pronounced judgment against in the book of Isaiah.
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CALENDAR:

Thurs- Alzheimers support group 1pm
Sat- Worship 5
Sun- Worship 8:30 and 11; Sunday school 9:45; Youth leave at noon for MN
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WORSHIP WORKERS:  
Acolyte-  8:30- Lydia Miller; 11- John Pezold
Ushers-  Dae Winter, Gary Scott, Larry Schulze, Scott Schulze
Altar- Set up- Marilyn Foster and Sue Ruhl; Clean Up- Terry McKenzie
Communion Assistants- Sat-  Randy Sweet; 8:30- Rich Talbert; 11- Charlie Figura
Greeters- 8:30- Bob Linke
Lay readers- Sat- Randy Sweet 8:30- Lois Boeger  11- Steve Robine
Pianist- Barb Dreyer
Projectionists: ??????
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NEWS:

PASTOR KLAUSTERMEIER AND 10 YOUTH WILL BE LEAVING SUNDAY AT NOON TO PROVIDE WORKS OF SERVICE TO LUTHERAN ISLAND CAMP IN HENNING, MN

We will be repairing buildings, cleaning up trails, building things, cleaning and grooming horses, witnessing to people in the community, and having all sorts of fun. 

 

Please pray for our safe travel and for a productive week.  We will return in the evening on Friday. 

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SEVENTH ANNUAL GOLF OUTING WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY, AUGUST 8 AT COUNTRY LAKES!!!  SIGN UP TODAY!!

 

Cost is $50 per person

 

Format is a 2 TWO person scramble this year. 

 

Registration at 7am

 

Shotgun start at 8am

 

Lunch and prizes at 1pm

 

Holes can be sponsored for $50 each.

 

All proceeds go to benefit our wonderful Little Lambs preschool.

 

Flyers are available on the counter in the narthex for those wishing to participate.

Call Alan Hofeldt at 456-3070 or the church office at 456-2888 to sign up you and 

 

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RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE HERE AT CHURCH ON TUESDAY, JULY 28!!

Volunteers are needed before the drive to make calls and set up appointments and the day of the drive to help out.  DONORS are also needed of course!  If you can help in any way call 456-2888 to let Marilyn know.

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TRAVEL FELLOWSHIP GROUP'S NEXT ADVENTURE IS TO ROCHEPORT AND ARROW ROCK, MO.

They will have dinner and the J. Huston Tavern in Arrow Rock and then enjoy a live play "Driving Miss Daisy" at the Lyceum Theater.  Cost will be determined by number of people going, but should run between $60 and $70 per person.  SIGN UP SOON!  A $25 deposit is due by this Sunday!! Please give your deposit to Marilyn or put it in her mailbox or on her desk.  Don't put it in the offering plate.

 

 

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CALLING ALL BAKERS!!!
If you have never been involved in one of our church activities (and even if you have), here is a new challenge for you!!  There will be a cake/dessert booth at the carnival on September 12!  The carnival will be open from 11am until dusk!  Donations of baked good and workers to man the booth will be needed!!  Desserts needing refrigeration cannot be accepted.  Work shifts will be for two hours beginning at 10am and will go till closing time.  To eliminate many, many phone calls, a sign up sheet has been placed on the narthex where you can volunteer!! 

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DO YOU HAVE A KROGER CARD?  ENROLL IT IN THE COMMUNITY REWARDS PROGRAM!!!
Register online and have it swiped each time you shop. 
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SAVE THE DATE!!!!  OUR FIRST ANNUAL FALL CARNIVAL WILL BE HELD SEPTEMBER 12, 2015!!!
We are looking for ideas for carnival games and also donations of carnival game prizes for the event.  Please donate prizes into the cardboard box in the narthex.  Also, if any one has an idea for a carnival game, or a game itself they would like to donate please contact Joanna Hoelscher at 636-485-0635 or Karla Christophene at 314-397-1375.

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PRAYER REQUESTS: 

For LIL WINTER as she recovers from her colostomy reversal and continues to get stronger daily. . 

 

For CORA CLUVER'S DAD, who is recovering from a severe motorcycle accident that paralyzed him from the neck down.  He is able to move his arms but beyond that cannot move anything.  

 

For CARA KLAUSTERMEIER, who is recovering from surgery.  She is doing very well. 

 

For DAVE AND CAROL KOHRS, who are now BOTH on hospice care.

 

For OUR DCE INTERN, KELSEY OVERBECK, that the Lord's will is done concerning her call to a church to be a full time DCE.

 

For WILMA WEIGLE as she continues to deal with the after effects of a severe stroke almost two years ago.  

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