Immanuel Voices: Recent Episodes
Immanuel Lutheran Church and School
Life is full of joy and challenges and some pretty scary stuff. These messages can provide hope, and help, and comfort as you make your way through.
Acts 2:42-47; 1 Peter 2:19-25; John 10:1-10
Today we hear about Jesus as both our Shepherd and the door for us, the sheep. Jesus is the Good Shepherd, who leads us to green pastures and still waters. And Jesus is the door, the gate by which we enter eternal life. As we follow Jesus, we know that He is always leading us toward righteousness—toward an eternity dwelling in the house of the Lord.
Acts 2:14a, 36-41; 1 Peter 1:17-25; Luke 24:13-35
Today we see Jesus appear to His disciples on the road to Emmaus. They say afterward that their hearts burned within them as Jesus opened up to them the Scriptures. In the Reading from Acts, those gathered on Pentecost are cut to the heart by Peter’s words. And in the Epistle, Peter speaks of purified souls and hearts. It seems our hearts are being greatly affected by Christ. They are cut, burning, and purified by the Word of Christ.
Acts 5:29-42; 1 Peter 1:3-9; John 20:19-31
We gather today still in the glow of the most joyous and amazing celebration of Easter, the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, from the dead. The sights and sounds of that celebration linger in our memory, not as just a past event finished and forgotten, but as Peter calls it today, “a living hope,” as enduring and strong as the certainty of our living Lord and the promised future of our own resurrection. We return to continue the Easter celebration because in the afterglow of the days since Easter Sunday, many still do not know that hope. Like the absent apostle Thomas, we still face what seems to be a hopeless world. Today we remember that our only hope is built on a divine Savior whose crucifixion wounds were endured for us and for all. Indeed, we are to learn that every Sunday throughout the entire year is an Easter celebration as our living Lord draws us into His holy, life-giving wounds through His very same body and blood given us in Holy Communion. Thomas saw and believed. Peter rejoiced. Though we do not now see Him, “you believe in Him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory” (1 Peter 1:8), the only sure and living hope.
Acts 10:34-43; Colossians 3:1-4; Matthew 28:1-10
Death is our common enemy. But God has chosen to do battle with our enemy and has given to all the same victory won by Jesus Christ. The veil of death cast over all is now removed in Christ Jesus. Death and all its terror and power has been answered by the resurrection of Jesus once for all. We participate in this victory in the banquet our Lord has prepared, first in the Holy Communion of His crucified and risen flesh and blood, and then in the marriage feast of the Lamb, which has no end. Though for now we wait by faith for Him to bring to consummation all things, we wait as a people saved by His blood and marked for everlasting life. So let us be glad and rejoice in His salvation!
Deuteronomy 32:36-39; Philippians 2:5-11; John 12:20-43
Throughout most of Christianity, this day is referred to as Palm Sunday/Sunday of the Passion. This dual name indicates the two-fold emphasis to this observance. The service begins with the Liturgy of the Palms---commemorating Christ's triumphal entry into Jerusalem. There He is greeted by worshipers who have strewn His pathway with palm branches and articles of clothing. Symbolically, the congregation processes into church holding palm branches to remind us of the honor and glory that is due the "One who comes in the name of the Lord." However, in Jerusalem that first Palm Sunday pageantry dramatically changed to persecution. So also the liturgy today moves from triumphant to penitential. As we hear Jesus foretell His Passion our joy is subdued, and eagerly we await the joyful pronouncements of Easter morning.
Ezekiel 37:1-14; Romans 8:1-11; John 11:17-27, 38-53
Each Sunday in Lent brings us closer to Holy Week and closer to the foot of the cross. In a sense, we are annual pilgrims traveling on the way of and to the cross. Each year is slightly different from the one that has come before on that cross way. According to the liturgical year in the Church, we are closer today to the death of Christ and His glorious resurrection than we were a week ago. And, according to our earthly lives, we are drawing closer to our own individual death and resurrection. Along this way, we intersect with the cross, which serves as a sign for our lives at all times. May we each be blessed in our pilgrimage!
Isaiah 42:14-21; Ephesians 5:8-14; John 9:1-41
Some of the central people in the Gospel narratives we get to know by name; others we do not. Although the man born blind is a major person in John 9, we never learn what his name might be. We meet his parents and his neighbors and we meet the Pharisees to whom he tells the story of the miraculous restoration of his sight. Although we do not learn his name, Jesus said of the man born blind that the works of God were displayed in him. As the One brightening our lives with the light of salvation, Jesus brings a new vision to our lives—an eternal vision of life
with God that never ends. God knows our names. He directs the cross currents of our daily lives. In His light we see light—and that is what matters!
Exodus 17:1-7; Romans 5:1-8; John 4:5-30, 39-42
One guideline consistently commended to hikers is the importance of bringing along sufficient water for the journey. It is important to be refreshed and revitalized along the way, wherever our paths may take us. As we gather for worship, our gracious God refreshes us here in this place where, as American hymnist Christopher Wordsworth beautifully phrased it, “Gospel-light is glowing With pure and radiant beams And living water flowing With soul-refreshing streams” (TLH 9:4). As we join in worship, our cups run over with that living water. Once again, we are renewed and satisfied and made ready to journey further in the name of the Lord.
Genesis 12:1-9; Romans 4:1–8, 13–17; John 3:1–17
The pages of the Bible are filled with some very human people. In the appointed Readings of the Sundays in Lent, we encounter several. In today’s Old Testament Reading, we hear of Abraham, who followed the guidance of God faithfully to the land of promise. Yet in Genesis, we also read that when in a challenging situation in Egypt, he misrepresented his wife as his sister and profited from the deception. Nicodemus, to whom Jesus explained the Gospel in great detail, kept his association with the Lord a secret. Even at the time of the burial of Jesus after the crucifixion, Nicodemus labors with Joseph of Arimathea “secretly for fear of the Jews” (John 19:38). It is well that we are reminded as we confess in the Nicene Creed that “for us men and for our salvation” our Lord “was made man.” As imperfect and very human people, we are assured by the Spirit that we are loved by God, who knows us as we are, and that we truly are “precious in the sight of the LORD” in life and in death (Psalm 116:15).
Genesis 3:1-21; Romans 5:12-19; Matthew 4:1-11
Knowing the history of words can help make them meaningful for us. The word truth comes from the English word true, which comes from the Old English word treowe, which comes from the ancient Indo-European root word drew, which means “tree.” The concept behind the word is that, like a tree, the truth stands straight and firm. The image brings to mind the word of the psalmist in the very first psalm, “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, . . . but his delight is in the law of the LORD. . . . He is like a tree planted by streams of water” (Psalm 1:1a, 2a, 3a). Underscoring the blessedness of being true like a tree, the psalmist states that “the LORD knows the way of the righteous” (Psalm 1:6a). In this Lenten season of repentance and reflection, we may well take to heart the advice of Paul to his co-worker Timothy, “Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness” (1 Timothy 6:11). May we be trees of truth to the glory of God!
Isaiah 55:10-13; James 1:2-18; Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23
One of the more challenging petitions in the Lord’s Prayer is “lead us not into temptation.” How are we to understand this? Where do temptations come from? How does God use them to draw us closer to Him? These are questions followers of Jesus have struggled with since He taught us this prayer. Let us take on the noble task of wrestling with this petition ourselves this morning.
Forgiveness is filled with questions. How often must I forgive? Is there a limit to the grace of forgiveness? What is the connection between God’s forgiveness to me and my forgiveness to others? The answer to these questions lies in Christ. As our heavenly Father has forgiven us, so do we forgive one another in His name. This forgiveness is clearly and beautifully shown in the example of Joseph, who was sold into slavery by his brothers and then forgave them because of God’s mercy.
Exodus 16:2-15; 1 Timothy 6:11-19; John 6:22-35
Bread, in one form or another, is a diet staple in most every culture. Though today we can be overwhelmed at the grocery store with countless types and styles, even in its simplest form, bread continues to sustain stomachs in a variety of ways. Bread, or the simplest form of manna, is what the Lord would use to sustain His people in the wilderness, and the image of bread is what He would use to help people understand the greater gift He came to give in His own Son. Yet, more than sustaining a diet for this body and life, Jesus, the bread of life, has come to serve us salvation, sustain our souls, and feed us with His forgiveness.
Isaiah 9:1-4; 1 Corinthians 1:10-18; Matthew 4:12-25
“Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done.” When Jesus appeared on the scene of human history, His coming brought the kingdom of God with Him. Isaiah had prophesied a day would come filled with joy as at the harvest or when victors divide spoils. But daylight also reveals problems covered by darkness, like the divisions at the Church in Corinth, as Paul writes. Jesus’ light not only reveals, but it also forgives, heals, and enlivens. People brought the sick and demon-possessed to our Lord, and the first four disciples jumped at the opportunity to follow Him. These were signs that the kingdom had finally arrived. What would it look like if His kingdom came as fully among us today? What are we asking when we pray “Thy kingdom come?”
Exodus 3:1-14; 1 Corinthians 1:1-9; Luke 10:17-21
God’s name is a holy, sacred thing. He shared it with Moses in the wilderness. Later, God swore by Him name to convince the people of Israel that He would keep His word. He has given His name to us that we might connect with and find joy in Him. Today we discover delight in God’s holy name.
Isaiah 42:1-9; Romans 6:1-11; Matthew 3:13-17
When Jesus was coming up out of the baptismal waters, the voice of the Father proclaimed Him as His Son, in whom He delighted. Those words would be repeated on the Mount of Transfiguration, but with this order to the disciples: “Listen to Him!” Those two events “framed” Jesus’ ministry of obedient service and His revelation of God’s great love even before His sacrifice on the cross. Seeing Him, we learn what it means to be “alive to God in Christ Jesus,” as Paul urges in the Epistle. We are also “framed”—considered God’s children through our Baptism. It is all grace, of course; we never achieve our Lord’s righteousness, but are given it as a gift. Today we listen again to the Gospel, respond with prayer and praise, and are given grace to tell our friends what Christ has done for us all.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8; Romans 8:31-39; Luke 12:35-40
Do you have enough time? We never seem to have enough, do we? But as we consider God’s Word this day, we realize that the time is now. God declares, “Again He appoints a certain day, ‘Today,’ saying through David so long afterward, in the words already quoted, ‘Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts’ ” (Hebrews 4:7). We need to realize that God is not just the King of the universe but also the Lord of time. That is frightening in some ways. It means we should not put off repentance as we so often do. But it also provides such comfort; our times are in His hands. Today, as we stand on the edge of another year, we will consider time. Let us consider how all our times are in His hands.
Isaiah 7:10-17; Romans 1:1-7; Matthew 1:18-25
One of the pleasures of walking through medieval towns and cities in Europe is seeing the signs that hang above the doorways of various stores and craftwork locations. Without a word of written language, you can tell where the town’s cobbler, blacksmith, baker, and glove maker have set up their shops. The signs indicate that the masters are at work in their various locations. For Christians, Advent is a time for looking to the signs of the presence of God as found in Word and Sacrament. There are signs around us right now! The cross over the altar or in front of church wordlessly attests to the fulfilling of the work by the Master of all creation through the coming of Jesus as the babe of Bethlehem, who would be our crucified and resurrected Lord. The candles on the Advent wreath burn brightly today! The signs of the season are all around us.
Isaiah 35:1-10; James 5:7-11; Matthew 11:2-15
The prophet Isaiah encouraged his people by assuring them that God would bring about justice to His enemies. “Behold, your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God. He will come and save you” (Isaiah 35:4). The heart of Isaiah’s promise is that through His justice, God will save us. God alone knows what is appropriate for each situation and what each person truly deserves. And ultimately, Christ’s coming will make all things right again.
Isaiah 11:1-10; Romans 15:4-13; Matthew 3:1-12
In the opening verses of Revelation, the last book of the Bible, John greets the readers of his epistle in this singular way: “Grace to you and peace from Him who is and who was and who is to come” (Revelation 1:4). John is confident that God’s grace is readily available for the readers of his letter who are scattered in many Christian gatherings across the area of Asia. And he is certain that the peace of God can reach to all of his readers in their very different and individual situations. The Advent season brings us the assurance that God’s plan is still unfolding and that we continue to abide in His peace. In this season of busyness, we can be peaceful and peaceable people by God’s grace!
Malachi 3:13-18; Colossians 1:13-20; Luke 23:27-43
There are many things that can define who we are: our relationships, our jobs, our language, our socioeconomic status, our location, or many others. Today, we focus on our identity in Jesus. Who are we because of Jesus? We will find that ultimately, we are not defined by what we do but by what Jesus does for us. Because of Jesus and His work and His ways, we are delivered and set free from sin and the assaults of Satan. You are a forgiven child of God!
Malachi 4:1-6; 2 Thessalonians 3:1–13; Luke 21:5–36
In today’s Epistle, we hear a word from Paul calling on the Church in Thessalonica to live quiet lives, confident in God’s faithfulness to them, for “the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one” (2 Thessalonians 3:3). It seems as though our lives are sometimes the opposite of quiet and confident. Life can be filled with noise and uncertainty. But confidence and quietness come to us as all of life does: as gifts from our heavenly Father. God grant this to all of us.
Revelations 7:9-17; 1 John 3:1-3; Matthew 5:1-12
In our Confessions, we say that we remember the saints so we may give thanks for them and their witness, so we might be strengthened by their example, and so we might be moved to follow them as they followed Christ. This is not about hero worship, but it is about recognizing the faithful who went before us, who trusted in Christ, and who were received into His mercy. It is about being encouraged as we fight the good fight here and now. It is also about looking to the great reunion when finally all the faithful will be together forever in the marriage supper of the Lamb without end.
Revelation 14:6-7; Romans 3:19-28; John 8:31-36
It is easy to underestimate the darkness of that time prior to the Reformation. It is just as easy to underestimate the darkness in our own day. On this day, we do not simply recall an event but the work of God recalling His Church to the eternal Gospel. We proclaim with clarity that justification by grace through faith is not some Lutheran quirk but is the message of Christ, affirmed by Paul and kept in trust by the Church down through the centuries as our greatest treasure. Just as the world long ago needed to hear the Church proclaim in an unwavering voice Jesus Christ and His payment for our sin, so does our world long for the true freedom bestowed by grace and grasped by faith.
Jeremiah 28:1-9; Philippians 3:4-14; Matthew 10:34-42
This is one of the hardest things Jesus ever said. It sounds like Jesus is saying that we cannot love anything but Him, or at least we cannot love anything as much as we love Him. Is Jesus really things demanding and insecure? Of course not. In order to understand what Jesus is saying we need a paradigm shift. Jesus is not setting up a new measuring stick, but a new way to look at the world. When you make this shift, Jesus’ saying not only makes sense, but makes loving father and mother easier.
Galatians 5:16-25; John 16:4-15; Psalm 25:1-10
Pastor Eric explains how our story with God works. Sometimes God gives us choices where we can do whatever we want, but other times He has a specific plan for us. God has promised that our last chapter is sure, but what it looks like getting there is a partnership with the Holy Spirit.
Leviticus19:9-18; 1 John 3:11, 16-24; John 13:12-17, 31-35
One of the first questions a person asks when joining a new group is, "What are the rules?" We want to know how we should conduct ourselves toward others in the group. What are our responsibilities and obligations? The Pharisees salivated over this question. They had taken God's law in the Old Testament and formulated 613 rules for daily living. They had a rule for everything. They were very upset when Jesus disregarded their elaborate rule structure and offered His disciples a single rule by which to live. One rule to rule them all. Many churches today are fond of rules, too. They have a rule for everything. Real Christians, however, are still guided by Jesus' singular commandment. Today, we explore Jesus' one rule.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12; Acts 13:1-5; Luke 10:1-12; Luke 10:17-19
In a culture that is very individually focused, there still is a realization that success is far more likely when you work as a team. Everyone needs people on their side to encourage, protect, help and expand your life. Jesus does the same with His followers, sending them out two by two.
Deuteronomy 11:18-21, 26-28; Romans 3:21-28; Matthew 7:15-29
When looking for a house people consider many things. How many bedrooms and bathrooms does it have? Do you want a traditional or open floor plan? Many people fail to consider one of the most important things, what kind of foundation is it built on? The foundation supports and sustains everything else about the house. If it has a faulty foundation the whole structure will soon crumble. If it has a firm foundation, not only will it stand the tests of time, but you can renovate and improve everything else without fear. The same is true for the real Christian. If we build our lives and faith on the right foundation we will stand in the trials of life, and it is the reason God can renovate our lives into the magnificent temple He desires.
Deuteronomy 11:18-21, 26-28; Romans 3:21-28; Matthew 7:15-29
When looking for a house people consider many things. How many bedrooms and bathrooms does it have? Do you want a traditional or open floor plan? Many people fail to consider one of the most important things, what kind of foundation is it built on? The foundation supports and sustains everything else about the house. If it has a faulty foundation the whole structure will soon crumble. If it has a firm foundation, not only will it stand the tests of time, but you can renovate and improve everything else without fear. The same is true for the real Christian. If we build our lives and faith on the right foundation we will stand in the trials of life, and it is the reason God can renovate our lives into the magnificent temple He desires.
Deuteronomy 5:28-33; Galatians 5:16-26; Luke 5:17-32
What does it mean to be a real Christian? This week we look at what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ. Without question there are many who class to be Christian and never even think about asking Jesus to guide them. Jesus started his ministry not by getting peoples lives straight. Not by getting their theology correct. Not even by proving to people that he is God. Jesus simple called out, follow me!
Deuteronomy 5:28-33; Galatians 5:16-26; Luke 5:17-32
What does it mean to be a real Christian? This week we look at what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ. Without question there are many who class to be Christian and never even think about asking Jesus to guide them. Jesus started his ministry not by getting peoples lives straight. Not by getting their theology correct. Not even by proving to people that he is God. Jesus simple called out, follow me!
Isaiah 7:1-2, 7–14; 1 John 4:7-16; John 1:1–14 (15–18)
What does it mean to be a real Christian? The world paints many unhelpful caricatures of what it means to be a Christian. They say it is about blind faith and ignorance that lead to judgmentalism and bigotry. Sadly, the way many Christians behave affirms this belief. Real Christianity is about living with and serving Immanuel, the God who is with us, in us, and works through us. It is about loving the unlovable and forgiving the unforgivable because that is what God did for us in Jesus. Today, we begin a seven week exploration of who and what a real Christian is. Be prepared to be encouraged, uplifted, challenged and called to action. Let’s begin living the life of a real Christian.
Isaiah 7:1-2, 7–14; 1 John 4:7-16; John 1:1–14 (15–18)
What does it mean to be a real Christian? The world paints many unhelpful caricatures of what it means to be a Christian. They say it is about blind faith and ignorance that lead to judgmentalism and bigotry. Sadly, the way many Christians behave affirms this belief. Real Christianity is about living with and serving Immanuel, the God who is with us, in us, and works through us. It is about loving the unlovable and forgiving the unforgivable because that is what God did for us in Jesus. Today, we begin a seven week exploration of who and what a real Christian is. Be prepared to be encouraged, uplifted, challenged and called to action. Let’s begin living the life of a real Christian.
Judges 7:9-23; Ephesians 6:10-18; John 1:1-18
When you are at war, there is an overarching goal. A finish that you are striving to reach. A victory that brings peace and joy. The Christian battle that we fight is sometimes hard and exhausting. But the battle we fight keeps us on the road to victory for us and others.
Judges 7:9-23; Ephesians 6:10-18; John 1:1-18
When you are at war, there is an overarching goal. A finish that you are striving to reach. A victory that brings peace and joy. The Christian battle that we fight is sometimes hard and exhausting. But the battle we fight keeps us on the road to victory for us and others.
Judges 7:1-8; Ephesians 3:14-21; Matthew 5:1-12
Will this work? Do we have enough helpers? Are we properly prepared? Have we forgotten anything? We often trust our evaluation of our situation and preparation. But when God calls us to walk by faith, we boldly follow without clear understanding.
Judges 6:33-40; Romans 15:14-21; John 4:46-54
The expression “to put out a fleece” is an old English expression meaning to ask God to do something to show that a thing to be His will. The expression comes from today’s Old Testament lesson. Gideon, our reluctant hero, wants to make sure he is doing the right thing, so he asks the Lord to make a fleece wet one night and dry the next to ensure he is doing God’s will. Many ask how this is reconciled with passages that command us not to put the Lord to the test? We will discuss the difference today and be encouraged to discover that God is not offended by our reluctance either.
Judges 6:25-31; Acts 12:1-17; Mark 6:1-6
How will people respond when we speak the truth of the Holy Bible? Will they argue? Will they laugh at you? Will they be offended? Will they put others against you? Or will they do the unexpected? How does your fear affect God’s activity?
Judges 6:11-27; Galatians 1:11-24; John 7:1-13, 25-31
When people choose their champions or leaders we have a few categories we naturally look for. Are they strong, courageous, confident, and powerful? God chooses His champions and leaders by different metrics. God chooses people that surprise us, a senior citizen with a warrant for murder like Moses; the chief persecutor of the church like Paul; the least son of the smallest family of the least clan in all Israel like Gideon. As we meet God’s chosen champion we will explore what God looks for and discover it is a whole lot more like you and me that we might be comfortable with.
Judges 6:1-10; Philippians 1:12-17; Luke 11:29-35
The story of Gideon begins in difficult times. The people have stopped following God and started following the ways of the nations around them. God, in His anger, sets His hand against them to discipline them with seven years of suffering at the hands of their enemies in Midian. It is in the midst of this suffering that we encounter a vision of the heart of God for His people. God will raise up a champion, albeit an unexpected one, and save them in a way that will clearly show both His power and His love. Through these events we will see how this is a smaller version of the story of how God rescued the whole world through another unexpected warrior a few centuries later. Today, we set the scene for Gideon’s story, and see that his times might not be so different than ours today.
One of the greatest ways to have joy is to bring joy to others. How do we help others find Christ in the midst of struggles? How do we be a light of the peace, grace and joy of Jesus?
Habakkuk 3:13-19; Philippians 2:1-10; John 16:16-24
Joy. Joy. Joy. We talk about it all the time, and sometimes we miss being full of joy. Sometimes it is hard to be joyful. Sometimes we do the same things that used to make us joyful and they don't have the same impact. How do we reclaim the joy in our hearts?
Isaiah 9:2-7; Philippians 2:1-11; Luke 10:1-12, 17-20
When Jesus sent out His followers to proclaim the Word of His kingdom to all who would listen, He assured them: "The one who hears you hears Me" (Luke 10:16). Those who responded in faith knew that the kingdom of God had come near to them and their joy increased knowing they were truly members of the household of God. Although this sending of the 70 took place some 2,000 years ago, the same reality is ours today! Jesus continues to send out His workers in order that they may preach His Word, preside over His Meal, and welcome into the household of God all who trust in Him. We are listening to Jesus Himself as His kingdom comes near to us. What peace and joy can be ours when we trust that heaven's grace is ours to receive!
Genesis 18:10-15, 21:1-7; 1 Peter 1:3-12; John 15:9-17
One of the marks of the people of God is that they live with joy. Joy may or may not be found in our circumstances at any given moment, but because of the great love God has demonstrated for us through His Son, Jesus, we are filled with an inexpressible joy knowing that His promises are sure and our future in His kingdom is secure. Because of who we are in Christ, we can find joy in the most difficult of circumstances.
Genesis 4:1-15; 2 Timothy 4:1-18; Luke 18:9-17
“How can you be so sure?” That is the question we may find ourselves asking when we read the confidence expressed by Paul in today’s Epistle: “There is laid up for me the crown of righteousness” (2 Timothy 4:8); “The Lord stood by me and strengthened me. . . . I was rescued from the lion’s mouth. . . . The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into His heavenly kingdom” (2 Timothy 4:17–18a). “Paul, how can you be so sure?” Today’s service will help us to see that Paul’s certainty was not based upon his strength of faith or his works of ministry; no, it was based solely on God’s faithfulness to him in Jesus Christ, the Crucified! Through His Word and Spirit, God provides such confidence and certainty to us also as we gather in His presence and are received by Him as members of His heavenly kingdom. “To Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen” (2 Timothy 4:18b).
Genesis 8:5-8; 2 Timothy 3; Luke 6:43-49
As we continue to go through the book of 2 Timothy, Paul clarifies what it means to be Christian. Those who follow Jesus are different from the world. People who are not filled with anger, selfishness and greed, but instead those who live the life that Jesus modeled and calls us to do.
Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31; 2 Timothy 2:1-6; John 8:48-59
In the beginning, following the crown of creation formed in Adam, the Lord said, “It is not good that the man should be alone” (Genesis 2:18). By the Lord’s continued creative work in making Eve, Adam would not be alone nor would humanity that followed even into a broken and sinful world. Yet even before the creation of the world and mankind, God Himself was not alone. In His eternal triune nature, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are and always have been. With thanksgiving, even as we come before Him today not alone but together, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit also join us together as one. Our Lord, Three in One, One in Three, comes to us through Word and Sacrament to unite us in faith given, promises fulfilled, and forgiveness assured.
Joel 2:28-32; 2 Timothy 1:1-18; Matthew 10:5-20
What transformed the 12 disciples from constant fear to incredible confidence? What changed the 12 disciples from personal weakness to unimaginable power? What adapted the 12 disciples from misguided judgment to AGAPA love? What grew the 12 disciples out of their foolish behavior to masterful self control?
Acts 1:1-11; Ephesians 1:15-23; Luke 24:44-53
Where is the hope? We live in a world where people are hungering for hope amid climate disasters, viruses, and failures of institutions and trusted leaders. There is a void in the marketplace for hope, which many try to fill with the latest fad, a get-rich-quick scheme, or by trusting in human institutions run by fallen humanity. Ascension gives us real hope. It reminds us that God loves us so much He sent His one and only Son to redeem us through His crucifixion and resurrection. Following the resurrection, Jesus walked the earth for forty days before ascending to heaven while promising us that He is with us always—in His Word, His Sacraments, and among His people. Then He returned to the Father to be our advocate. That is our hope.
Acts 16:9-15; Revelation 21:9-14, 21-27; John 14:12-21
"Spirit of the Living God, fall afresh on me. Spirit of the Living God, fall afresh on me. Melt me, Mold me, Fill me, Use me. Spirit of the Living God, fall afresh on me.”
Acts 11:1-18; Revelation 21:1-7; John 16:12-22
"A little while" says Jesus, and He will not be seen and then seen again - because He is going to the Father. Jesus is nothing but blunt with His disciples, telling them what will happen. But they do not want to hear it. They did not want to hear His words of suffering and death to come on the cross, and they missed His promise to rise again. Jesus knew their aching hearts were full and promised the Spirit to lead them into all truth. A little while and death will give way to life - for Jesus and also for His disciples. Because He goes to the Father, preparing the way, we also look forward to going to the Father. This hope sustains the weary through their trials in the mortal life. We belong forever to the Lord.
Acts 20:17-35; Revelation 7:9-17; John 10:22-30
Happy Mother’s Day! For most of us Mom has been a great blessing in our lives. Most of us, when they are little kids, grabbed hold of Mom in tears and fears. We also look to someone we know in times of need. How great is the Good Sheppard who’s voice we know and who’s face we trust!
Acts 9:1-22; John 21:1-19
In light of Christ’s eternal victory, we should expect change in our daily living. For example, although they were called to be fishers of men, in today’s Gospel, the disciples learned that they needed to listen to their Lord even when fishing for fish. Change for Peter would mean moving from regretting his past (where he denied his Lord) to feeding Christ’s flock. And for Saul (Paul), Christ’s eternal, living presence would mean changing from catching Christians to proclaiming Christ before Gentiles and kings. The heavenly host in the Reading from Revelation sing their eternal songs of praise to the Lamb on the throne. How might our risen Lord’s eternal victory over sin and evil change us so that we echo their praises already here in time?
Acts 5:12-20; Revelation 1:4-18; John 20:19-31
He is Risen! But Jesus was not finished with his ministry on earth. We will be looking at the 40 days after the cross and resurrection. What was it that Jesus wanted his people to see, to know, to avoid and to do? Today we look at his first appearance to his disciples.
Isaiah 65:17-25; Romans 6:3-11; Luke 24:1-12
“He is risen!”—the Church shouts with confidence—“He is risen indeed!” The high point of our Christian life is celebrated this morning as we gather with all of God’s children to rejoice in the resurrection of our Lord, Jesus Christ. As today’s Gospel from Luke 24 will show us, confusion and fear give way to confident faith when the women who went to the tomb realize Jesus is alive and then share this good news with the other disciples. Through those disciples, this message has reached us also! Just as God had promised through His prophets of old, the Lord Himself will restore creation and bring harmony to all life— beginning with Jesus’ resurrection and continuing until the Last Day, when Jesus returns in glory, destroys death itself, and raises us up to new lives in His eternal kingdom. With confidence in God’s promises, we say: “I know that my Redeemer lives!” What comfort, what hope, what joy this sweet sentence gives!
Deuteronomy 32:36-39; Philippians 2:5-11; John 12:20-43
The words of the prophet Zechariah echo throughout this special day: “Behold your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is He, humble and mounted on a donkey” (Zechariah 9:9). On this day, we remember how Jesus Christ, the King of all creation, came down the Mount of Olives riding “a colt, the foal of a donkey.” We know the time and the place of that coming down the hill and traveling in procession across the valley and up to the city of Jerusalem. Jesus rode down a real mountain in a definite time in history and at a place still very much there today. All this was for a most certain purpose. On this day of celebration and of sorrow, we have reason to rejoice in the salvation our humble King brought for us to and through Jerusalem and to the cross on Calvary’s hill. The people there called out Hosanna!—which means “save us now!” And Jesus fulfilled their—and our—heart-felt request.
Who’s Boss? In our world today everyone is told that it is their life. People leave jobs because they don’t like what is required. Some people cannot follow anyone but themselves. What does Jesus tell us in His parable about the Wicked Tenants that we experience in our world?
Isaiah 12:1-6; 2 Corinthians 5:16-21; Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32
No parable more fully describes the profound character of God’s mercy than the prodigal son and the waiting father. We are the rebels who begin to think we deserve our heavenly Father’s kindness and who demand from Him what is not our right to claim. But instead of disowning us, He meets us with joy, welcomes us with His forgiveness, restores our tattered righteousness with the robe of Christ’s holiness, and sets His Table before us. This is what happens every Sunday as the Lord reclaims us from our sins, restores joy to our heavy hearts, reminds us of His baptismal promise, and feeds our body and soul with the body and blood of His Son. This is the source of our holy joy and this is the peace that passes all understanding.
Ezekiel 33:7-20; 1 Corinthians 10:1-13; Luke 13:1-9
God blessed us with his Word so that we would know Him. The prophets came to reveal what our loving God was trying to give his children. Jesus came to reveal what had been lost in God’s people. The disciples of Jesus lived their calling to share the good news with the world. What is Immanuel’s purpose in the world today?
Jeremiah 26:8-15; Philippians 3:17-4:1; Luke 13:31-35
What a privilege it must have been when Israel was rescued by God. What an incredible king God was with His people. A king of truth, power, and love. Yet, Israel did not follow their savior. God was patient and forgiving, but Israel will would not follow Him. When God Himself came down to help and guide, His people would not accept God as their king. After the consequences, they lamented. Do you ever lament?
Deuteronomy 26:1-11; Romans 10:8b-13; Luke 4:1-13
The First Sunday in Lent begins with the temptation of Jesus. Alone in the wilderness, Jesus faces the temptations of the devil, who tries to use God’s own Word to entrap Jesus. The collect reminds us that we are also walking through the wilderness of this world, taunted and tempted by the devil, who still uses God’s Word to entrap us. Jesus does not simply show us how to resist but reveals that our strength lies in the same Word of God. In Christ, we stand strong against the wiles of the devil and, when and if we fall, we find refuge in Christ to be forgiven and restored.
Isaiah 12:1-6; Romans 5:1-11; Matthew 6:25-33
Tick Tock Tick Tock - It’s amazing how sometimes time is moving so fast we can’t keep up. It’s amazing time is moving so slow we want it go faster. What a gift that we have the God who has all time in His hands.
1 Corinthians 12:12-27; Ephesians 5:1-2, 15-20; Matthew 20:20-28
God blesses us with so much grace and so many gifts. Have you identified your gifts? Have you seen your talents and the reason God gave you your talents? What a wonderful and generous Father we have!
Malachi 3:6-10; 2 Corinthians 9:6-15; Matthew 19:16-30.
In commenting on the Fourth Petition of the Lord’s Prayer, “Give us this day our daily bread,” Martin Luther writes, “God certainly gives daily bread to everyone without our prayers, even to all evil people, but we pray in this petition that God would lead us to realize this and to receive our daily bread with thanksgiving.” God’s bounty is given to all people. It is a blessing to be able to receive that bounty with thanksgiving and to respond to the goodness of God. The Old Testament custom of tithing is worthy of our consideration as appropriate expressions of thanksgiving to God, as we reflect on our motivation for giving. Our return on God’s trust to us is to be a central part of our worship.
Everyone wants to live the “good life.” We usually define the good life as being healthy and wealthy. We make plans to gain the things we think will finally make us happy, houses, cars, boats, and cabins. There is nothing wrong with these things as such, but the more you chase after the things of the world on the world’s terms the more you will find yourself discontent or disappointed with them. God has laid out a way for us to live designed to bring us true freedom and joy, this is found in our God Ordained Opportunities and Duties. The “good life” is actually found by living life God’s way. Another word for this kind of life is “stewardship.” Trough the month of February we will explore what it means to live the G.O.O.D Life.
Revelation 21:1-8; Revelation 22:1-7; Luke 24:36-53
We pause to consider our brothers and sisters in Christ, especially those who have been ignored or mistreated. We are reminded today that Christ has chosen us to be His people, to be heirs with Him of salvation. Such grace gladdens our hearts and emboldens us to help our brothers and sisters in need. Today we explore what God tells us of the Kingdom to come. What the eternal kingdom be like? What will it consist of? In this conversation we find great hope in God’s word.
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Revelation 20:11-15; Matthew 25:31-46
Do you remember what Jesus told His disciples about when He would return? Jesus said, “But concerning that day or that hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Be on guard, keep awake. For you do not know when the time will come” (Mark 13:32–33). Do you remember the promise the angels shared as Jesus ascended? “This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw Him go into heaven” (Acts 1:11). Be on guard, keep awake, and remember He is coming soon.
1 John 3:1-3; Revelation 7:9-17; John 14:1-7
Today we lift our eyes from the present and focus them on the promises of God that will be fulfilled in the future. What a blessed day it will be when we will gather with all of Jesus’ holy ones around His throne in heaven! In John 14, Jesus gives us a picture of what happens when we close our eyes for the last time here on earth. It is a message that brings comfort and hope to all who call Jesus their Savior. Today we explore what comes after this life.
Psalm 90:1-17; Galatians 5:13-18; Luke 5:1-5
Last week we introduced the concept of God in our vocations. God’s leadership and hands are with us wherever and whatever we are doing. This week we look at the details of how we live that out and what God is calling us to do.
Ecclesiastes 3:9-15; Colossians 3:1-11, 17; Luke 6:32-38
What is your vocation at work? Boss of a company? Teacher? Administrator? Builder? Marketing? What about at home? Parent? House cleaner? House fixer? Financial plainer? Driver? What about at church? Singer? Cleaner? Bible Class? Sunday School? Decorator? Community service? What does God say about the many vocations of our life?
Malachi 3:1-7b; Phillipians 1:2-11; Luke 3:1-14, 15-20.
“Hark! A Thrilling Voice Is Sounding” (LSB 345) is a cherished Advent hymn. That thrilling voice is that of John the Baptist crying out in the wilderness, “The Savior is near! The kingdom of God is near! Repent, and live out your new life in Christ! Produce fruits worthy of repentance!” In many ways, we still live in the wilderness. Our nation continues to polarize, causing us to lose friends and feel as though we are alone in the world. Many of us walk through the wilderness of serious disease, job loss, or watching our children or grandchildren walk away from faith. There is also the self-created wilderness of our own sin—the damage we have done in relationships with others. But John’s thrilling words bring us hope. While we are powerless to make it through the wilderness ourselves, God is powerful and sees us through. By the gift of repentance in turning to Him in our desperation and pain, God restores a right relationship to us and then sets us free to bear fruit worthy of repentance. We are not stuck. God can change and restore us! A thrilling voice indeed!
Zephaniah 3:14-20; Philippians 4:4-7; Luke 7:18-28
The American folk song “I Wonder as I Wander” captures the Advent question asked by John the Baptist’s messengers in today’s Holy Gospel. “Are You the one,” they wondered, “or shall we look for another?” We live in a wandering world, constantly looking, seeking, and yearning for that one thing, that one idea, that one person, that one amount of money that unlocks the way to a life of flourishing. We ourselves, wandering as we sometimes do, at times have put our trust in people or things that cannot deliver what only Jesus can. Today we rejoice that amidst our wonderings and wanderings, Jesus is the one. He is the one by whom the blind saw, the lame walked, lepers were cleansed, demon-possessed people were freed, and the dead were raised. Jesus is the one who will restore all creation to its original perfection and who, when He comes again in glory, will restore all things forever.
Psalm 62; 1 John 4:1-6; Matthew 11:25-30
Every Christmas season is a busy time of year. Setting up the Christmas tree, decorating inside and out, cleaning for guests, going to see family, making delicious food, buying presents for people, giving to those in need, preparing for singing Christmas songs. Our lives are filled with many things as we prepare for the celebration of birth of our Savior. Very different was the first Christmas.
Isaiah 52:7-10; 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13; John 1:1-14.
Christian Formation is a process that followers of Jesus engage in personally and corporately to grow to full maturity in Christ. Christian maturity leads it incarnational living. That is a fancy way of saying that we partner with the Holy Spirit to let Christ live both in and through us. Often, we think of God’s work in big moments, Easter and Christmas, dramatic faith stories, and the like. However, mature faith is learning to let Christ live in and through us in the everyday moments. God transforms the ordinary to extraordinary by the power of His Holy Spirit. As we move through our days we bring the living presence of God into every conversation, opportunity and effort. It is not because we learn to strive to keep God in the front of our minds all the time, but because He is in us all the time and we learn the sound of His voice and the pressure of His nudge to action. We give Him permission use us in whatever way He thinks is best. This is incarnational living.
Psalm 1:1-6; 1 Timothy 4:6-16; Mark 12:38–44.
An old story tells of a stranger walking in the streets of a noisy city. He listens, stops, and finds a cricket on the street that no one has noticed. He drops some coins on the pavement, and everyone hears and stops. In the Gospel today, no one but Jesus noticed the copper coins amid the large sums placed in the offering box. But He did not hear coins; He heard the sound of a great faith. This woman gave her all, trusting in the Lord alone. We live in times of great abundance. Great abundance does not produce generosity, but faith does. From the generous God who has given us all things in Christ, we learn to live as a generous people. The grace of God is sufficient for all things we need today and for our eternal salvation.
Joel 2:15-17; Acts 4:23-31; Matthew 18:18-20
No matter what age we are or experiences we have had in life, we still have much to learn. The God who has done so much for us brings us together to praise Him and call on Him in times of trouble.
Psalm 34:1-8; Hebrews 13:13-16; Luke 19:28-40. Jesus taught much truth to His disciples to equip them for their higher purpose in this world. Is this faith limited to our time in church, or is God preparing us to be his light outside of God’s house? What are the things that help us keep God in our heart, in our sight and in our actions?
Revelation 14:6-7; Romans 3:19-28; John 8:31-36. Jesus calls us to abide in His Word. To abide means to dwell or be at home. Are you at home in Jesus’ Word? Is it the place where you long to be? Jesus’ Word is the only place in all the world where we can find the absolute guarantee of sins forgiven, hope restored, and new life granted as children of God the Father. Today, Jesus mercifully calls us to come to Him, confess our sins, and be filled with His pardon and peace. He will renew us by His Word, strengthen us at His Table, and send us forth with His blessing to proclaim to all creation: “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36).
Daniel prayed, and through that prayer God gave him a ray of home. Whenever you're scared, all you need to do is pray.
The most famous story from the Book of Daniel is certainly Daniel and the Lion’s Den. It is a favorite for Sunday School teachers. As children we acted it out as we played. We marvel at Daniel’s courage and God’s faithfulness. From the kings perspective it is a cautionary tale about thinking things through fully before in make an unchangeable decree. Today, we will explore this famous account and see what it says about living in the world today. Daniel 6:1-15; Daniel 6:16-28; Mark 10:32-34
Daniel 4:1-18; Daniel 4:18-27; Daniel 4:28-37. In Daniel chapter 4 there is a sudden change of perspective. Instead of Daniel this is written by King Nebuchadnezzar. Words of the bible written by the king of an ungodly nation! Does God communicate his truth to people who aren’t in church and not in the bible? What is God saying to people in our nation today? What are we to say?
Daniel 3:1, 8-30; 1 Peter 4:12-18; John 16:23–33. As we witness the great miracle of God’s rescue of His faithful servants from the fiery furnace, we are reminded that this is not an isolated ancient story. Troubles and trials come to each of us. The troubles of the world confront us every day—troubles in the news, troubles in our families, troubles within ourselves, troubles at work or at school. Jesus knows the world. So He said to His disciples, “In the world you will have tribulation” (John 16:33). Yet the final word of this Easter season is not trouble. It is hope through the resurrection of Jesus in defeat of all of this world’s troubles. “Take heart; I have overcome the world,” Jesus said. Being a follower of Jesus never protects us from experiencing the world’s troubles. It does give us hope. It does fill us with courage. It does strengthen our hearts.
Daniel continues to be a man of God in an ungodly world. In today’s world Christians often assume that God is full of bitter anger and enjoys bringing justice on sinners. But the book of Daniel teaches us a very different heart of God and God’s people.
In the Old Testament the nation of Israel fell. Now God’s people were taken to other countries to serve a ungodly king and live in a world with very different thoughts and believes. Daniel is great example of who God works in ungodly nations, and what God calls us has his children to be and to act in this new world.
Mark 1:40-45. When Jesus began His ministry, His heart of love lead Him to heal the sick. But His greater purpose was to heal the spiritual heart of humanity. As Jesus Christ has brought the gift of forgiveness, joy, and everlasting life, we also have a heart for those who are sick and suffering in this broken world. We have a heart to share what Jesus has won for us!
Acts 10:34–48; 1 John 5:1–8; John 15:9–17. Life should be filled with joy. Jesus said that He came that our joy might be full. Yet, often the trials of life bring us down and block us from experiencing the joy God intended for us. It is not enough to say, “Be joyful!” We all desire to be filled with joy. We need to know how to cultivate joy in our lives. We need to know how to turn every circumstance into a reason for joy. Today, we will explore how to cultivate joy in our lives.
Proverbs 9:1–10; Ephesians 5:6–21; John 6:51–69
Today we consider how we, as the people of God, should respond to our culture. We have explored how our culture is opposing God by redefining any and every truth God has spoken. Last weekend we discussed why God’s way is not just the best way, but the only true way. Now we consider how God would have us to move forward with His truth in the midst of our culture. How can we bring truth and love together to change minds and win hearts? For the important thing is not to win the argument, but to draw them to Christ and His saving grace.
Proverbs 1:7-16; Ephesians 14:17-29; Matthew 7:12-20
The world in which we live today is very different than it was fifteen years ago. The faith of people in our community today is no longer on the Creator of the universe. Morality no longer has a source. Anger at those who disagree with us is more common than loving discussion. How do we help people embrace Jesus instead of the world?
Isaiah 42:14–21; 1 John 2:7-14; John 8:31-38
We find ourselves living in a land deeply divided by a cultural war. Many are asking how we got here. While many reasons are given for the division, most people wonder what the root cause is. What is really at issue? The answer is one that is deeply troubling for people of faith. In this series we will explore the central issue, what it means for us, and how the church should respond. While politics certainly play a role in what is occurring in America today, I want to be clear that neither party is the answer to solving the spiritual erosion of our nation, the Church is.
2 Kings 19:14-19; 1 Corinthians 8:1-6; John 5:30-46
In Bible times, everyone had a God. In today’s world, Christians are still the majority, but the number of Atheists continues to grow. The First Commandment says, “You shall have no other Gods before Me”. Everyone has a god; whether it be a family member, boss, or idol.
Acts 11:27-12:5; Romans 8:28-39; Mark 10:35-48
In Scripture and our hymnody, human life is often portrayed as being a pilgrimage. “I’m But a Stranger Here” includes this classic line: “Short is my pilgrimage, Heav’n is my home” (Lutheran Service Book, 748 v. 2). The earthly pilgrimage of hymnwriter Thomas Taylor lasted only twenty-eight years—a brief life lived to God’s glory. The lives of many followers of Jesus have been brief, yet powerful. On this day, the Church remembers St. James the Elder, the brother of John, whose earthy life was ended at the murderous order of King Herod. As we sing of the “noble army of martyrs” in the Te Deum, we remember this singular disciple of Jesus Christ as part of that noble army.
Exodus 20:8-11; Colossians 2:16-23; Luke 6:1-11
From the creation of the world God established a Sabaoth day of rest. In today’s world it seems imposable to find a time of rest. Why did God take a break after 6 days of creation? What do we get from taking rest? How is it done in today’s world?
Isaiah 61:1-7; 2 Corinthians 12:1-10; Luke 22:24-30
Today, our nation celebrates its place as the land of the free and the home of the brave. At times, this reality causes us to thump our chest to let the world know how great we are. The apostle Paul, too, could claim his place among the greats. Paul was “circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness, under the law blameless. But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ” (Philippians 3:5–7). Yet, he was not mightier than the thorn. As Paul followed Jesus, he was plagued by a thorn in the flesh to keep him from becoming conceited. He asked God to take it away, and God said, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). So, too, God’s grace is sufficient for us no matter where this life takes us, because when we are weak, then we are strong.
Psalm 23; Romans 8:26-39; John 10:7-16
Psalm 23 is one of the most beloved passages in Scripture. It brings comfort and hope whenever it is read. David paints a picture of God’s shepherd heart for us. He desires us to know times of quiet waters and green pastures, but He knows that they won’t last in this fallen world. We will journey through the Valley of the Shadow of Death, and we will be surrounded by enemies. Ultimately we will find rest in His house forever. During the month of June we begin our summer respite with an in-depth look at Psalm 23 and find rest and encouragement for our souls.
Psalm 23; 1 John 2:20-27; Matthew 8:5-13
Psalm 23 is one of the most beloved passages in Scripture. It brings comfort and hope whenever it is read. David paints a picture of God’s shepherd heart for us. He desires us to know times of quiet waters and green pastures, but He knows that they won’t last in this fallen world. We will journey through the Valley of the Shadow of Death, and we will be surrounded by enemies. Ultimately we will find rest in His house forever. During the month of June we begin our summer respite with an in-depth look at Psalm 23 and find rest and encouragement for our souls.
Psalm 23, 1 Peter 2:19-25, John 10:1-10 Psalm 23: Life with the Good Shepherd
Psalm 23 is one of the most beloved passages in Scripture. It brings comfort and hope whenever it is read. David paints a picture of God’s shepherd heart for us. He desires us to know times of quiet waters and green pastures, but He knows that they won’t last in this fallen world. We will journey through the Valley of the Shadow of Death, and we will be surrounded by enemies. Ultimately we will find rest in His house forever. During the month of June we will begin our summer respite with an in-depth look at Psalm 23 and find rest and encouragement for our souls.
Psalm 23, 1 John 3:16-24, John 10:11-18
Psalm 23: Life with the Good Shepherd
Psalm 23 is one of the most beloved passages in Scripture. It brings comfort and hope whenever it is read. David paints a picture of God’s shepherd heart for us. He desires us to know times of quiet waters and green pastures, but He knows that they won’t last in this fallen world. We will journey through the Valley of the Shadow of Death, and we will be surrounded by enemies. Ultimately we will find rest in His house forever. During the month of June we will begin our summer respite with an in-depth look at Psalm 23 and find rest and encouragement for our souls.
Ezekiel 37:1-14; Acts 2:1-21; John 15:26-27, 16:4b-15
We have all failed Jesus in our own ways. We have vowed to leave a besetting sin behind only to find ourselves standing before Jesus the following Sunday asking His forgiveness again. Imagine denying Him three times only to discover that He was right behind you when you said it. What would your next conversation with Jesus be like? Today we get a glimpse of the amazing love and mercy of our Savior as we see Jesus and Peter walk together after breakfast on the shores of Galilee.
Acts 1:12–26; 1 Peter 4:7-11; Mark 10:35-45
Through our Ministry Clarity process, leaders of Immanuel were challenged to begin seeing where God is leading us by getting a clearer understanding of who we are as the people of God and what values undergird all that we do at Immanuel. We came to understand that the values that uphold all of our ministries are Praising, Praying, Connecting, Serving, and Learning. During this series we will be exploring these values together to come to a better understanding of how they impact life and faith at Immanuel. This week we explore serving. Serving is one of the most important ways we live out our faith. God created us to give and receive love through serving. Jesus demonstrated the value of serving by serving each of us with His very lift. Today we celebrate the centrality of service in the life of Immanuel.
Through our Ministry Clarity Process, leaders of Immanuel were challenged to begin seeing where God is leading us by getting a clearer understanding of who we are as the people of God and what values undergird all that we do at Immanuel. We came to understand that the values that uphold all of our ministries are Praising, Praying, Connecting, Serving, and Learning. During this series we will be exploring these values together to come to a better understanding of how they impact life and faith at Immanuel. This week we explore the value of praying.
Isaiah 42:5-9; Psalm 100; Romans 15:7-13; John 12:1-8
Through our Ministry Clarity Process, leaders of Immanuel were challenged to begin seeing where God is leading us by getting a clearer understanding of who we are as the people of God and what values undergird all that we do at Immanuel. We came to understand that the values that uphold all of our ministries are Praising, Praying, Connecting, Serving, and Learning. During this series we will be exploring these values together to come to a better understanding of how they impact life and faith at Immanuel. This week we explore the value of praising. Praising is not just something we do in the worship service, but a part of everything we do together. Every action at Immanuel should result in praise and glory to God.
1 John 3:16-24; John 21:16-19; Acts 4:1-12
We have all failed Jesus in our own ways. We have vowed to leave a besetting sin behind, only to find ourselves standing before Jesus the following Sunday asking His forgiveness again. Imagine denying Him three times only to discover that He was right behind you when you said it. What would your next conversation with Jesus be like? Today we get a glimpse of the amazing love and mercy of our Savior as we see Jesus and Peter walk together after breakfast on the shores of Galilee.
Joshua 22:1-6; Acts 20:17-35; John 21:1-14
Following Jesus during His earthly ministry was pretty straightforward. They went where He went and joined in what He was doing. Following Jesus after Easter was a bit more challenging. This month we will join the disciples in their encounters with the risen Savior in the Gospel of John. Today we will discuss Jesus’ breakfast at the shore with His disciples and how He continues to teach and encourage them.
We invite you to learn more about what’s happening at Immanuel by clicking https://www.immanuelbatavia.org/this_week.
Genesis 17:15-21; Hebrews 12:1-12; John 20:19-31
Following Jesus during His earthly ministry was pretty straightforward. They went where He went and joined in what He was doing. Following Jesus after Easter was a bit more challenging. This month we will join the disciples in their encounters with the risen Savior in the Gospel of John.
Jeremiah 31:1-6; Acts 10:34-43; Matthew 28:1-10
Death is our common enemy, but God has chosen to do battle with our enemy and has given to all the same victory won by Jesus Christ. The veil of death cast over all is now removed. Death, and all its terror and power, has been answered by the resurrection of Jesus once for all. We participate in this victory in the banquet our Lord has prepared. First in the Holy Communion of His crucified and risen flesh and blood and then in the marriage feast of the Lamb, which has no end. Though for now we wait by faith for Him to bring to consummation all things, we wait as a people saved by His blood and marked for everlasting life; so let us be glad and rejoice in His salvation!
Zechariah 9:9-12; 1 Peter 2:4-10; Matthew 21:1-11
It is Palm Sunday! This is also the final week on the Red Letter Challenge on GOING. Without question, the ministry of Jesus was filled with ups and downs--but none as gigantic as Holy Week. Going into the world and sharing Christ is filled with joys and sorrows. What did Jesus demonstrate to us in that Holy Week?
Isaiah 55:1-12; 2 Corinthians 9:6-15; Matthew 6:19-24
As a follower of Jesus, I know and believe in the reality of Jesus’ death and resurrection. How disappointing it must be for God to look at me and see that I still fail Him. If He sent Jesus expecting that after His death and resurrection, we would be eternally grateful and therefore live lives of complete holiness. He must be very disappointed. But God sent Jesus not because He expected perfection from us, but simply because He loves us. God sent Jesus knowing that, even after His death and resurrection, we would not be perfect yet. However, this is the motivation for our generous giving. We want to both thank and imitate our great and generous God.
Sat., Mar. 20, 10 AM-Noon
Drive through our campus counting eggs, listening to the story of Jesus from Palm Sunday through Easter, and look at the story eggs. The first 100 cars will receive an Easter Story book. When you finish driving through, your children can tell us how many eggs they spotted in the trees and shrubs. They will receive a goody bag filled with candy and fun Easter activities.
Numbers 21:4-9, Ephesians 2:1-10, John 3:14-21
SERVING is about doing things. The key to finding fulfillment in serving is having it flow of our identity in Christ [BEING] and our gratitude for His grace to us [FORGIVING]. We do what God wants us to do because we love Him and we believe that following Him will lead us to the full life Jesus promised. The more we do what He is asking us to do, the more we find the abundant life we were made for. In fact, the entire motivation behind the Red Letter Challenge stems from the fact that God loved me first and I am so overwhelmed by His love that I want to do something about it!
Ecclesiastes 7:20-25; Romans 3:10-26; Luke 6:27-42
Our Heavenly Father sent Jesus into the world to die for our sins. We are saints in the eyes of God because of what Jesus did. We are forgiven! As we dig into the scriptures this week, we look at the importance of forgiveness in our lives.
Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16; Philippians 2:12-18; Mark 8:34b
Many faithful Christians believe that our faith is about taking care of where we go in the next life. We believe that Jesus died and on the cross and took away our sins, so when this burdensome life comes to an end, I will get to go to heaven when I die. This is true, but it misses out on so much of what God has for you. He has named you His child today. He desires to spend each day with you right now! The challenge is we are not very good at engaging with God and building our relationship with Him. This week we will learn how to have a transformational relationship with Jesus and begin fully living the adventure He has planned for your life.
Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32; James 1:22-25; Matthew 7:24-28
Why does the world around us and the life we live not look anything like the reality Jesus talked about? Why is there no significant difference between the lives of those who call themselves Christians and the rest of the world? What kind of witness can we be in this world if we simply look the same as everyone else? Isn’t it time to change people’s perceptions about the followers of Jesus Christ? We can do this by taking the words of Jesus and actually putting them into practice. This Lent we will be considering the five primary calls Jesus’ placed on His followers: Being; Forgiving; Serving; Giving, Going. We will not only consider what Jesus said, but what it looks like to put His words into practice. You will add greatly to this experience if you join us in the Red Letter Challenge daily devotional book that accompanies this series.
2 Samuel 7:1-17; 2 Samuel 7:18-29; 1 Peter 5:6-11
As we wrap up our series on David, we really wanted to wrap it up with something powerful and strong. We go to 2 Samuel, Chapter 7, because this is one of the greatest statements of God to an individual in all of Scripture. It is an amazing statement, and that is how this story starts.
2 Samuel 11:1-15, 26-27; 2 Samuel 12:1-15; Mark 2:1-12
As we enter the Lenten season, we encounter a significant problem: we have fallen into sin just as Adam and Eve did, which means we are banished from the Garden of Eden just as they were. The wages of sin is death, and without access to the Tree of Life, we are all doomed to die. We are dust, and to dust we shall return. Yet, in Jesus, we find that we are not doomed to dust forever, but Jesus will raise us from the dead to join Him in a new Eden, a new paradise forever.
2 Samuel 1:1-16, 2 Samuel 2:1-11, Matthew 26:36-46
After a long time of waiting David is finally king. Was is a day of joy or day of sorrow? Did the nation accept him as king? What drives a king? How are difficult decisions made? How do you know that God is on your side?
1 Samuel 24:1-20, 1 Samuel 26:1-25, John 15:18-27
David dealt with some very challenging situations. One of the most difficult was what to do when God had declared you the next king, and the current king is trying to kill you. Is it right to speed up the process by fighting back and killing him first? Should you wait on the Lord to act in His time? Is faithfulness acting or patiently waiting? It's not always clear. We can run into some of these sorts of challenges in our own lives. Today we will explore how David was faithful in hard times.
1 Samuel 18:1-5, 1 Samuel 20:24-42, John 15:12-17
What does it mean to be a true friend? The book of Proverbs has much to say about what makes up true friendship, but the strongest example in the Bible is found in the friendship of David and Jonathan. Jonathan was the son of Saul and rightful heir of the throne of Israel. However, David had been anointed the next king by the command of the Lord. This should have made them mortal enemies. Instead, they became the truest of friends. We will explore what made their friendship so strong and see how this relates to our truest friendship--with Christ.
1 Samuel 15:10-23, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Luke 2:40-52
David: A Man After God's Own Heart
Being called someone after God’s own heart is a rather dizzying sobriquet. It doesn’t mean perfection, or David—like the rest of us--would have been disqualified. So, why? God’s grace and mercy. “Mercy is when God does not give us what we deserve; grace is when God gives us what we do not deserve!” [Ben Goodwin] Come with us on this journey at we dig deeper into the life of David and discover how he became “A Man After God’s Own Heart.”
Isaiah 61:10-62:3, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40
The Gospel for the First Sunday after Christmas takes us to the temple in Jerusalem, where Jesus is brought by Mary and Joseph. In presenting Him there, they are affirming that He is dedicated to God as a firstborn son; but He is much more than a son—He is the Son. In her classic hymn text, German hymnist Elisabeth Cruciger celebrates His coming as she writes, “The only Son from heaven, foretold by ancient seers, By God the Father given, In human form appears. No sphere His light confining, No star so brightly shining As He, our Morning Star” [LSB 402:1]. Jesus is the One in whom we see our salvation, whose light guides our way through life, and whose presence enlightens our world. With joy, we worship Him!
Psalm 42:5-11, 1 Corinthians 2:1-9, Matthew 1:18-25
That first Christmas was unexpected. For Joseph it seemed like an ugly year. Mary was pregnant and he thought it best to not marry her, but end their relationship. His plans had been ruined. Everything was going wrong, but the angel came to him in a dream and helped him see the incredible hope that he did not see.
Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Luke 1:5-7, 24-25, 39-45, 57-66
In our Advent preparations today, John the Baptizer’s mother Elizabeth adds her testimony to the power of hoping in the Lord’s promises, holding before us the joy of the coming of Jesus as the light who gives to all who receive Him and believe in His name the right to become children of God. Because of our Lord’s continual supply of grace by His Word and Sacraments, we are enabled with Him to “greatly rejoice in the LORD”; for by His Spirit of righteousness we lead lives of holiness of faith. This holiness continually rejoices in the Lord, prays, and give thanks in all circumstances. With Elizabeth and Zechariah, we rejoice, always prepared by faith to welcome and worship our Lord and Savior, who comes to us daily with healing and deliverance.
Drive Through Christmas shares the Christmas story through selected pieces of our outdoor nativity, along with volunteers portraying Mary and Joseph, the shepherds, and the Magi. The story is narrated here by our own Roger Dall.
https://www.immanuelbatavia.org/christmas
There was an unexpected hope the first season of Advent. God was preparing people for the greatest and most surprising moment in history. No one was ready for it, especially a young woman, newly engaged to be married. Today we look at the announcement to Mary.
Malachi 3:1-4, 2 Peter 3:8-14, Luke 1:5-25
We begin a new Church Year boldly begging for the advent of our risen Lord Jesus, His final coming to rescue and save us. Our boldness, however, is tempered with the humility of faith that says, “Nevertheless, Thy will be done.” For we know and even expect that His answer to our prayer will be hidden in mystery. It may be the mystery of our continued cry for mercy or the surprise of His final advent as victorious Lord and Judge of all. It was in the mystery and surprise of the announcement of an unexpected child to Zechariah that hope first broke on our world. So today we pray with bold humility and confidence for His coming and deliverance always appears with an unexpected hope.
Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24, 1 Corinthians 15:20-28, Matthew 25:31-46
Today is the Last Sunday of the Church Year. This Sunday is traditionally filled with themes of Christ’s roles as King and Judge, but consider these words from Psalm 95, “We are the people of His pasture and the sheep of His hand.” We are God’s chosen sheep. He is our Shepherd. We follow Him as He goes to seek the lost, bring back the stray, and bind up the injured.
Ezekiel 34:1-6, 2 Peter 3:8-14, Matthew 25:1-13
We continue our series on Final Things, looking at the Parables of Jesus that speak about what happens at the end, when Christ returns. Last week we talked about having eternal things in mind as we live in this world. This week we read the "Parable of the Ten Virgins." Are you ready for Jesus to come back and take us home?
Psalm 101:1-6, Romans 1:16-25, Matthew 25:14-30
Today we look at “The Parable of the Talents” from Matthew 25. Every day it is difficult, but important, to live in the world, but not of the world. This parable opens our minds to things we often struggle to examine and consider.
1 John 3:1-3
Revelation 7:9-17
Matthew 5:1-12
There are different types of hope. The hope some people have is no more than wishful thinking. Others rely on their own plans and intellect to provide a measure of hope during times of difficulty. But for those of us who have been blessed with the gift of faith in our Lord Jesus, hope is sure. For His sake, our heavenly Father has forgiven all our sins and now calls us His own children, brothers and sisters of our Lord. We shall join those who have gone before us to sing God’s eternal praises, even as we join “angels and archangels and all the company of heaven” in the Sanctus before receiving His body and blood.
Psalm 46; Rev. 14:6-7; Rom. 3:19-28; John 8:31-36
Martin Luther’s great hymn A Mighty Fortress Is Our God is based on Psalm 46. When the Psalm was first written, it gave courage to God’s Old Testament people. Centuries later, when Luther wrote the hymn, the world was filled with plagues and death, and the devil was recognized as active in the lives of everyday people. Further, neither the Roman Catholic Church nor the government accepted the teachings of the reformers. Now, in our day, we face cyber warfare, pandemics, terrorists, political polarization, and ecclesiastical division. Because of our Baptism into the death and resurrection of Christ, we need not fear. Our gracious God is a very present help in this time of trouble. He is our refuge against the powers of the created world around us and the forces of evil from every source. From His throne flow streams of mercy to give us confident joy. We know that in the end “the kingdom ours remaineth.”
Ruth 2:1-12, 1 Peter 4:7-11, Luke 10:25-37
This week we close our series on Going Deeper as we talk about how we as God's people should always be growing. It's important for us to always be growing in this life of faith.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Acts 2:42-47
John 10:1-16
How important are relationships? How has 2020 affected your relationships? God has always reached out to His children. Not trying simply to teach us, but to walk with us day after day. How do we open our heart to our master and friend?
As we continue to explore our role as a church in the lives of God’s people, we go deeper into the biblical image of being friends of God. Today we are reminded that, while our ultimate goal is to join our Savior in His heavenly kingdom, discipleship is not about the destination, but the journey. If you have ever been on a trip with a good friend you have looked back at the end of the trip and realized that you enjoyed the journey with your dear friend more than the event at the end of the trip. Many of the most powerful moments in the lives Jesus’ disciples came as they talked along the way to the places Jesus was going. The same remains true today. For disciples who are friends of God it is about the journey, not the destination.
The call to discipleship is not a static calling. Certainly, we are justified in the once for-all-time event of the cross of Calvary through our baptism, but this is the start of a grand adventure, not the conclusion. This invitation to know and be known by God is the invitation to a relationship that grows, develops, and matures over time. Once you begin the journey of truly knowing God, you never reach the end. There is always more to experience, know, and discover in the vastness of God. This is our quest at Immanuel Lutheran Church and School. Today, we explore the reality that we need to understand the nature of our relationship with God if we are to start going deeper in Him.
Our God is the God of love and justice. That is rare in our world! Because of our Almighty King’s justice, we can let go of our need to avenge the wrongs done to us. Jesus opens our heart to lovingly let go of our bitterness and lovingly share God’s gracious truth with those who are cruel to us.
There is a lot of talk in our world about the need to love yourself. If you don’t love yourself how can you love anyone else? Doesn’t God’s command to “love your neighbor as yourself” presuppose that you love yourself first? Of course it does. The challenge comes when we begin to look into our hearts and lives for virtues and actions worthy of our own love. We know all of the faults and selfish intentions behind even our best acts of love. When we look deeply into our souls, we often find things that cause us to despair rather than rejoice. How then can we love ourselves at all? These are the questions with which we will wrestle today.
The Father has loved the Son, and the Son has loved all people, making a home for us with Him in the Father’s love. Dwelling in the Father’s love by faith in Jesus, we keep His commandments. As we come to realize that we are loved by God, we discover that keeping His commandments is not burdensome, but a joy. Jesus’ word of promise fills us with joy. He has chosen us to be His fruit-bearing friends who love people the way He does. Alleluia!
Immanuel Lutheran School chose a Bible verses for this year. It’s words are filled with great things for all of God’s people. “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may you’re works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” --Matthew 5:16
Episode 101: The Truth About Christian Suffering
Featuring Pr. Eric Kennaugh
Based on 1 Peter, A Living Hope
Episode 100: Living for God
Featuring Pr. Eric Kennaugh
Based on 1 Peter, A Living Hope