Grace Lutheran Tucson Sermons: Recent Episodes
Grace Pastors
Holy Trinity Sunday, June 15, 2025
Our Worship Series: Undivided Attention. This Sunday’s Message: The Majesty and Mystery of Our God.
First Lesson: Numbers 6:22-27.
Second Lesson: Romans 5:1-5.
Gospel: John 16: 12-15
Sermon Text: Romans 5:1-5. The Three-in-One God Gives You Three Incredible Gifts
Pastor Ron Koehler
Pentecost, June 8, 2025
Our Worship Series: Because He Lives. This Sunday’s Message: Christ Sends Us His Spirit
First Lesson: Genesis 11:1-9.
Second Lesson: Acts 2:1-21.
Gospel: John 14:23-27
Sermon Text: Acts 2:1-21. God Pours Out His Spirit
Pastor Nate Kassulke
The Ascension of our LORD, June 1, 2025
Our Worship Series: Because He Lives. This Sunday’s Message: He Reigns over Everything for the Benefit of His Church.
First Lesson: Acts 1:1-11.
Second Lesson: Revelation 19:1-16.
Gospel: Luke 24:44-53
Sermon Text: Revelation 19:1-16. An Open Heaven Reveals the Ascended Lord
Pastor Ron Koehler
Sixth Sunday of Easter, May 25, 2025
Our Worship Series: Because He Lives. This week’s message: We Have Deep and Lasting Joy
First Lesson: Acts 14:8-22.
Second Lesson: Revelation 21:21-27.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 16:16-24. No One Will Take Your Joy Away
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Fifth Sunday of Easter, May 18, 2025
Our Worship Series: Because He Lives. This week’s message: We Live Lives of Lavish Love.
First Lesson: Acts 11:1-18.
Second Lesson: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 13:31-35. Carry Our Christ’s New Command.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Fourth Sunday of Easter, Good Shepherd Sunday: May 11, 2025
Our Worship Series: Because He Lives. This week’s message: We Know Jesus is Trustworthy and True.
First Lesson: Acts 13:15-16, 26-39.
Second Lesson: Revelation 7:9-17.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 10:22-30. Listen and Trust.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Third Sunday of Easter, Youth Confirmation: April 27, 2025
Our Worship Series: Because He Lives. This week’s message: We Can See Things Clearly
First Lesson: Acts 9:1-22.
Second Lesson: Revelation 5:11-14
Gospel: John 21: 1-14.
Sermon Text: Revelation 5:11-14. Spiritual Sight Produces Praise.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Second Sunday of Easter, April 27, 2025
Our Worship Series: Because He Lives. This week’s message: We Have a Meaningful Message
First Lesson: Acts 5:12-, 17-32.
Second Lesson: Revelation 1:4-18
Gospel: John 20:19=31.
Sermon Text: Acts 5:12, 17-32. We Have a Meaningful Mission and Message.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Easter Festival Service, April 20, 2025
First Lesson: Isaiah 25:6-9
Second Lesson: 1 Corinthians 15:51-57
Gospel: Luke 24:1-12
Sermon Text: 1 Corinthians 15:51-57
Pastor Ron Koehler
Good Friday Service, April 18, 2025
Message: Restored by His Sacrifice. Psalm 51
Sacrifice Promised. Psalm 22
Sacrifice Prophesied. Isaiah 52:13-53:12
Sacrifice for Us. Galatians 3:10-13
Sacrifice Offered. John 19:17-24
Sacrifice Completed. John 19:25-30
Sacrifice Fulfilled. John 19:31-37
Sacrifice Honored. John 19:38-42
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Holy Thursday Service, April 17, 2025
First Reading: Jeremiah 31:31-34
Psalm 116
Second Reading: Hebrews 10:15-25
Gospel: Luke 22:7-20
Sermon Text: Psalm 51:10-13
Pastor Ron Koehler
Palm Sunday Service, April 13, 2025
The Passion (suffering) of our Savior, Jesus. The entrance of Jesus into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday begins the account of Jesus’ Passion.
First Reading: Luke 19:28-44. Jesus Entry into Jerusalem
Second Reading: Luke 22:1-38. Plot, Passover, and the Lord’s Supper
Third Reading: Luke 22:39-54. Gethsemane
Fourth Reading: Luke 22:54-71. Denial and Trial
Fifth Reading: Luke 23:1-25. Pontius Pilate
Final Reading: Luke 23:26-56. Crucifixion, Death, and Burial
Pastor Ron Koehler
Sixth Midweek Lenten Service, April 9, 2025
This Lenten season, the theme for our midweek services is “Reflections on Repentance.”
First Reading: Psalm 32.
Passion History According to St. Luke’s Gospel: Luke 23:26-56.
Sermon Text: Psalm 51: 8-9. Removing Our Guilt.
Pastor Ryan Heiman
The Fifth Sunday in Lent, April 6, 2025
Our Sunday Lenten Series: Open Door Policies: God’s surprising strategies for getting sinners back home.. Our Theme for Today: Hiding Treasure in the Trash.
First Reading: Isaiah 43:16-21.
Second Reading: Philippians 3:4-14.
Gospel: Luke 20: 9-19.
Sermon Text: Philippians 3:4-14. Knowing Christ is Worth Far More.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Fifth Midweek Lenten Service, April 2, 2025
This Lenten season, the theme for our midweek services is “Reflections on Repentance.”
First Reading: Psalm 30.
Passion History According to St. Luke’s Gospel: Luke 23:1-25.
Sermon Text: Psalm 51: 7. Relying on God’s Grace.
Vicar Noah Nordlie
The Fourth Sunday in Lent, March 30, 2025
Our Sunday Lenten Series: Open Door Policies: God’s surprising strategies for getting sinners back home.. Our Theme for Today: Grace Instead of Condemnation.
First Reading: Isaiah 12:1-6.
Second Reading: Romans 8:1-10.
Gospel: Luke 15:1-3, 11-32
Sermon Text: Romans 8:1-10 We Get Grace Instead of Condemnation.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Fourth Midweek Lenten Service, March 26, 2025
This Lenten season, the theme for our midweek services is “Reflections on Repentance.”
First Reading: Psalm 119.
Passion History According to St. Luke’s Gospel: Luke 22:54-71.
Sermon Text: Psalm 51: 6. Remembering God’s Perfect Demands.
Pastor David Parsons
The Third Sunday in Lent, March 23, 2025
Our Sunday Lenten Series: Open Door Policies: God’s surprising strategies for getting sinners back home.. Our Theme for Today: Always Present, Always Patient.
First Reading: Exodus 3:1-15.
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:1-13.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Luke 13:1-9. Bear Fruit of Repentance.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Third Midweek Lenten Service, March 19, 2025
This Lenten season, the theme for our midweek services is “Reflections on Repentance.”
First Reading: Psalm 51.
Passion History According to St. Luke’s Gospel: Luke 22:39-54.
Sermon Text: Psalm 51: 5-6. Revealing Our Sinful Nature.
Pastor Seth Scheuerlein
The Second Sunday in Lent, March 16, 2025
Our Sunday Lenten Series: Open Door Policies: God’s surprising strategies for getting sinners back home.. Our Theme for Today: The door to God and the glory he has prepared for us stands wide open. It is a very specific pathway to that door, no detours allowed..
First Reading: Jeremiah 26:8-15.
Second Reading: Philippians 3:17-4:11.
Gospel: Luke 13:31-35.
Sermon Text: Philippians 3:17-4:11. Walk This World as a Citizen of Heaven.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Second Midweek Lenten Service, March 12, 2025
This Lenten season, the theme for our midweek services is “Reflections on Repentance.”
First Reading: Psalm 25.
Passion History According to St. Luke’s Gospel: Luke 22:1-38 .
Sermon Text: Psalm 51: 3-4. Recognizing Against Whom We Sin.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Transfiguration Sunday, March 2, 2025
Our Sunday Lenten Series: Open Door Policies: God’s surprising strategies for getting sinners back home.. Our Theme for Today: One stands; Everyone else sits. This week we see one man, Jesus Christ, stand against Satan. Christ fought the battle against Satan as one of us and he won that battle for all of us.
First Reading: 1 Samuel 17: 4-11, 32-40, 45-49.
Second Reading: Hebrews 4:14-16.
Gospel: Luke 4:1-13.
Sermon Text: 1 Samuel 17: 4-11, 32-40, 45-49. The Battle Belongs to the LORD.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Ash Wednesday, March 5, 2025
Ash Wednesday begins the season of Lent. Ashes were used by God’s people to show repentance. The day derives its name from the practice of repentant people receiving ashes on their forehead. This practice goes back to at least the 8th century A.D.
First Reading: 2 Samuel 12:1-13.
Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:20-6:2.
Psalm 130
Gospel: Luke 18:9-14.
Sermon Text: Psalm 51: Heading, 1-2. Realizing Our Need for Repentance
Pastor Ron Koehler
Transfiguration Sunday, March 2, 2025
Our Epiphany Series: Epiphany is the season we celebrate when Jesus revealed his reason for coming. Today’s focus: Glory is Hidden in order to be Revealed.
First Reading: Exodus 34: 29-35.
Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 3:7-18.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Luke 9:28-36. A Day of Great Change
Pastor Ron Koehler
The Seventh Sunday after Epiphany, February 23, 2025
Our Epiphany Series: Epiphany is the season we celebrate when Jesus revealed his reason for coming. Today’s focus: Love Your Enemies, Overcoming Evil with Good.
First Reading: Genesis 45:3-15.
Second Reading: Romans 12:14-21.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Luke 6:27-38. Jesus’ Golden Rule for Christians.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
The Sixth Sunday after Epiphany, February 16, 2025
Our Epiphany Series: Epiphany is the season we celebrate when Jesus revealed his reason for coming. Today’s focus: Blessings Are Cursed; Curses Are Blessed..
First Reading: Jeremiah 17:5-8.
Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 12:7-10.
Gospel: Luke 6:17-26
Sermon Text: 2 Corinthians 12:7-10. God’s Grace is Enough.
Pastor Ron Koehler
The Fifth Sunday after Epiphany, February 9, 2025
Our Epiphany Series: Epiphany is the season we celebrate when Jesus revealed his reason for coming. Today’s focus: The Least Qualified Are the First Sent.
First Reading: Isaiah 6:1-8.
Second Reading: Romans 10:12-17.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Luke 5:1-11. Let Down Your Nets for a Catch
Pastor Nate Kassulke
The Fourth Sunday after Epiphany, February 2, 2025
Our Epiphany Series: Epiphany is the season we celebrate when Jesus revealed his reason for coming. Today’s focus: Popularity is not Proof of Success.
First Reading: Jeremiah 1:4-10.
Second Reading: 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5.
Gospel: Luke 4:38-44
Sermon Text: 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5 What Does Sucess Look Like in God’s Kingdom?
Pastor Ron Koehler
The Second Sunday after Epiphany, January 19, 2025
Our Epiphany Series: Epiphany is the season we celebrate when Jesus revealed his reason for coming. Today’s focus: God Delivers More than We Ask, Not Less.
First Reading: Isaiah 62:1-5.
Second Reading: Ephesians 3:14-21
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 2:1-11. The Generous Jesus.
- He’s interested in your life in this world.
- He’s interested in your life after this world.
Pastor Ron Koehler
The First Sunday after Epiphany, January 12, 2025
Our Epiphany Series: Epiphany is the season we celebrate when Jesus revealed his reason for coming. Today’s focus: Baptism is the cure for an identity crisis.
First Reading: 1 Samuel 16: 1-18.
Second Reading: Titus 3:4-7.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Luke 3: 15-17, 21-22. Jesus’ Baptism Revealed His Identity as the Promised Messiah.
Pastor Ron Koehler
The Epiphany of our Lord, January 5, 2025
Our Christmas Series: The Gift of God. This service: The gift of God is for all people.
First Reading: 1 Kings 10:1-9.
Second Reading: Acts 13:46-49.
Gospel: Matthew 2:1-12.
Sermon Text: 1 Kings 10: 1-9. See How the LORD loves Israel
Pastor Nate Kassulke
New Year’s Eve Service, December 31, 2024
First Reading: Isaiah 40: 27-31.
Second Reading: Philippians 3: 12-20.
Gospel: Matthew 6: 25-34
Sermon Text: Exodus 14: 13-15, It’s Time to Move On..
Pastor Ron Koehler
First Sunday after Christmas, December 29, 2024
Our Christmas Series: The Gift of God. This service: God Gives Both Substitute and Sacrifice.
First Reading: Isaiah 50:4-9.
Second Reading: Hebrews 2:10-18.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Luke 2:41-52, Be Amazed by Your Twelve Year-Old Savior.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Christmas Day, December 25, 2024
Our Christmas Series: The Gift of God. This service: God Gives Himself as One of Us.
First Reading, Devotion and Prayer: Exodus 33:18-23; 34:5-7. God’s Glory Requires Hime to Give Himself as One of Us.
Second Reading, Devotion, and Prayer: John 1:1-18: God Gave Himself as One of Us.
Third Reading, Devotion, and Prayer: Romas 8:31-32: God’s Giving of Himself Proves His Love to Give Us Even More.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Christmas Eve, December 24, 2024
Our Christmas Series: The Gift of God. This service: God Gives Heaven’s Best Gift in Earth’s Unlikeliest Place.
First Reading: Isaiah 9:2-7.
Second Reading: 1 John 4:9-14
Gospel and Sermon Text: Luke 2:1-20. An Unexpected Home for Christmas
Pastor Nate Kassulke
The Fourth Sunday in Advent, December 22, 2024
Our Sunday Advent Worship Series: A Real Christmas. This Sunday: A Real Christmas Will Lift Up the Lowly.
First Reading: Micah 5:2-5.
Second Reading: Hebrews 10:5-10.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Luke 1:39-55. Let Humble Mary Show You How to Celebrate Christmas
Pastor Ron Koehler
The Third Midweek Advent Service, Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Our Worship Series - Christmas Trees
First Reading: Genesis 3:16-24.
Psalm 27.
Second Reading: John 20:30-31.
Sermon: Revelation 22:1-5. The Tree of Life
Pastor Ryan Heiman
The Third Sunday in Advent, December 15, 2024
Our Sunday Advent Worship Series: A Real Christmas. This Sunday: A Real Christmas Results in Great Joy.
First Reading: Zephaniah 3:14-17.
Second Reading: Philippians 4:4-7.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Luke 3:7-18.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
The Second Midweek Advent Service, Wednesday, December 11, 2024
Our Worship Series - Christmas Trees
First Reading: 1 Samuel 16:1-13.
Psalm 73.
Second Reading: Matthew 1:1-17.
Sermon: Isaiah 11:1-10. The Tree of Promise
Vicar Noah Nordlie
The Second Sunday in Advent, December 8, 2024
Our Sunday Advent Worship Series: A Real Christmas. This Sunday: A Real Christmas Is Rooted in Repentance.
First Reading: Malachi 3:1-7
Second Reading: Philippians 1:3-11.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Luke 3:1-6.
Pastor Ron Koehler
The First Midweek Advent Service, Wednesday, December 4, 2024
Our Worship Series - Christmas Trees
First Reading: Galatians 3:7-13.
Psalm 1.
Second Reading: Matthew 3:4-10.
Sermon: Genesis 3:1-15. The Tree of Rebellion
Pastor Nate Kassulke
The First Sunday in Advent, December 1, 2024
Our Worship Series - A Real Christmas. Advent prepares our minds and hearts so that we might soon celebrate a real Christmas. Our theme for today: A real Christmas requires remembering why Christ came.
First Reading: Jeremiah 33:14-16.
Second Reading: 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13.
Gospel: Luke 19:28-40.
Sermon: 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13. Our Earnest Advent Prayer for You
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Thanksgiving Eve Service, November 27, 2024
First Reading: Genesis 8:18-22.
Second Reading: James 1:16-18.
Gospel: Luke 19:1-10.
Sermon: Psalm 100, A Thanksgiving Recipe
Pastor Ron Koehler
The Last Sunday of the Church Year, November 24, 2024
LIVE LIKE YOU’LL LIVE FOREVER. If you really thought it was your last day, that belief would shape how you lived that day. The theme for today’s service: Live with Your Eyes on the Skies.
First Reading: Isaiah 51:4-6.
Second Reading: Jude 20-25.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Mark 13:26-37. Learn! Be on Your Guard! Be Alert! Watch!
Guest Pastor Dan Lindner, WELS Campus Ministry Mission Counselor
Twenty-sixth Sunday After Pentecost, November 17, 2024
LIVE LIKE YOU’LL LIVE FOREVER. If you really thought it was your last day, that belief would shape how you lived that day. The theme for today’s service: Live Free from the Fear of Judgment.
First Reading: Daniel 12:1-3.
Second Reading: Hebrews 9:24-28.
Gospel: John 5:25-29.
Sermon: Hebrews 9:24-28. Christ’s Appearances Do Not Deceive
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Twenty-fifth Sunday After Pentecost, November 10, 2024
LIVE LIKE YOU’LL LIVE FOREVER. If you really thought it was your last day, that belief would shape how you lived that day. The theme for today’s service: Live a Life of Startling Generosity.
First Reading: 1 Kings 17:8-16.
Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 8:1-9.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Mark 2:38-44. A Couple of Coin in a Courtyard Classroom
Pastor Ron Koehler
All Saints’ Day, November 3, 2024
LIVE LIKE YOU’LL LIVE FOREVER. If you really thought it was your last day, that belief would shape how you lived that day. The theme for today’s service: Live a Knowing Life Only Gets Better.
First Reading: Isaiah 25:4-6.
Second Reading: Revelation 20:4-6.
Gospel: John 11:32-44.
Sermon Text: Isaiah 25:4-6: Saints Rejoice on the Mountain of the Lord.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
October 27, 2024
Reformation Service. The heart of the Gospel is the forgiveness of sins, purchased and won for us through the innocent death of Jesus Christ. On October 31, 1517, Martin Luther nailed 95 statements for debate on the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, German. This is the 507th anniversary of the beginning of the Lutheran Reformation.
First Reading: Joshua 1:1-9.
Second Reading: 1 Thessalonians 3:16-18.
Gospel: John 15:1-17.
Sermon Text: Psalm 46.
Pastor Joel Heckendorf, President of the Arizona-California District
The Festival of Reformation, October 27, 2024
LIVE LIKE YOU’LL LIVE FOREVER. If you really thought it was your last day, that belief would shape how you lived that day. The theme for today’s service: Live a Life of Courageous Witness
First Reading: Daniel 3:16-28.
Second Reading: Revelation 14:6-7.
Gospel: Mark 13:5-11.
Sermon Text: Daiel 3:16-28. God Gives Us the Power to Stand.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Twenty Second Sunday After Pentecost, October 20, 2024
THE NEED FOR FOLLOWERSHIP: In this series, we ask Christ to empower us with his Spirit so that we might better follow his lead. Our theme for this Sunday: : Followers of Christ Make Selfless Sacrifices.
First Reading: Isaiah 53:10-12.
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 9:7-12, 19-23.
Gospel: Mark 10:32-45.
Sermon Text: 1 Corinthians 9:7-12, 19-23. Do You Share Paul’s Wining Attitude?
Pastor Ron Koehler
Twenty First Sunday After Pentecost, October 13, 2024
THE NEED FOR FOLLOWERSHIP: In this series, we ask Christ to empower us with his Spirit so that we might better follow his lead. Our theme for this Sunday: : Followers of Christ Maintain Proper Priorities.
First Reading: 2 Kings 5:14-27.
Second Reading: Hebrews 4:12-13.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Mark 10:17-27. Followers of Christ Have Their Priorities Straight.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Twentieth Sunday After Pentecost, October 6, 2024
THE NEED FOR FOLLOWERSHIP: In this series, we ask Christ to empower us with his Spirit so that we might better follow his lead. Our theme for this Sunday: : Followers of Christ Know How to Love Their Families.
First Reading: Genesis 2:18-25.
Second Reading: Ephesians 5:22 - 6:4.
Gospel: Mark 10:2-16.
Sermon Text: Ephesians 5:22 - 6:4. Learn How To Love Your Family
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Festival of St. Michael and All Angels, September 29, 2024
THE NEED FOR FOLLOWERSHIP: In this series, we ask Christ to empower us with his Spirit so that we might better follow his lead. Our theme for this Sunday: : Followers of Christ Have Powerful Allies.
First Reading: 2 Kings 6:8-17.
Second Reading: Revelation 12:7-12.
Gospel: Luke 10:17-20.
Sermon Text: 2 Kings 6:8-17 LORD, Open Our Eyes!
- To the Dangers that Surround Us
- To the Angels that Protect Us
Pastor Ron Koehler
Eighteenth Sunday After Pentecost, September 22, 2024
THE NEED FOR FOLLOWERSHIP: In this series, we ask Christ to empower us with his Spirit so that we might better follow his lead. Our theme for this Sunday: : Followers of Christ Are Humble Servants.
First Reading: Numbers 12:1-15.
Second Reading: James 3:13-18.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Mark 9:30-37. Be First By Serving.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Seventeenth Sunday After Pentecost, September 15, 2024
THE NEED FOR FOLLOWERSHIP: In this series, we ask Christ to empower us with his Spirit so that we might better follow his lead. Our theme for this Sunday: Followers of Christ Are Armed for Battle
First Reading: 1 Kings 18:21-39.
Second Reading: Ephesians 6:10-18.
Gospel: Mark 9:14-27.
Sermon Text: Ephesians 6:10-18. You versus Evil-Are you Ready for the Battle?
Pastor Ron Koehler
Sixteenth Sunday After Pentecost, September 8, 2024
THE NEED FOR FOLLOWERSHIP: In this series, we ask Christ to empower us with his Spirit so that we might better follow his lead. Our theme for this Sunday: Followers of Christ See the True Purpose of His Powers
First Reading: Isaiah 35: 4-7.
Second Reading: Acts 3:1-10.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Mark 7:31-37. See the Purpose of Jesus’ Power
Pastor Ron Koehler
Fifteenth Sunday After Pentecost, September 1, 2024
THE NEED FOR FOLLOWERSHIP: In this series, we ask Christ to empower us with his Spirit so that we might better follow his lead. Our theme for this Sunday: Followers of Christ Obey His Law from the Heart
First Reading: Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-9.
Second Reading: Romans 9:30-10:4.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23. What Does It Mean To Be Clean?
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Fourteenth Sunday After Pentecost, August 25, 2024
OUR THEME FOR TODAY—THE ONLY FOOD WE REALLY NEED
First Reading: Joshua 24: 1-2, 14-18.
Second Reading: Hebrews 11:24-28.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 6:51-69. Eat the Bread of Life.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Thirteenth Sunday After Pentecost, August 18, 2024
OUR THEME FOR TODAY—THE BREAD THAT GIVES WIDOM AND LIFE
First Reading: Proverbs 9:1-6
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 2:6-16.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 6:35-51. Believe in the Bread of Life.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Twelfth Sunday After Pentecost, August 11, 2024
OUR THEME FOR TODAY—SPIRITUAL FOOD FOR THOSE FOCUSED ON THE EARTHLY
The best thing God gives us is his Son, the bread of life.
First Reading: Exodus 16:15-31. In sending manna, a bread that stayed fresh for a short time, the LORD not only cared for Israel’s physical well-being but also fortified trust that God would continue to provide.
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:1-5, 11-13. The Israelites had spiritual food in the wilderness. The pre-incarnate Christ was with them! Yet some cared more about physical blessings than spiritual ones.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 6:24-35. Look to Jesus for Bread from Heaven.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Eleventh Sunday After Pentecost, August 4, 2024
Meaningful Ministry: Fear Not, for the Lord is With You
First Reading: 2 Kings 6: 8-17.
Second Reading: 2 Timothy 4: 6-8, 16-18.
Gospel: Mark 6: 45-56.
Sermon: 2 Timothy 4: 6-8, 16-18. You Have Nothing to be Afraid of as You Serve the Lord
Pastor Ron Koehler
Tenth Sunday After Pentecost, July 28, 2024
Meaningful Ministry: God Meets Our Need to Meet Others’ Needs
First Reading: Exodus 16:1-15.
Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 9:8-11.
Gospel: Mark 6:35-44
Sermon: 2 Corinthians 9:8-11. God Gives His Gace for a Purpose
Pastor Ron Koehler
Ninth Sunday After Pentecost, July 21, 2024
Meaningful Ministry: Jesus Models a Compassionate Shepherd’s Heart
First Reading: Jeremiah 23:1-6.
Second Reading: Hebrews 13:7-8, 17-21.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Mark 6:30-34. A Compassionate Shepherd’s Heart
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Eighth Sunday After Pentecost, July 14, 2024
Meaningful Ministry: Sent With God’s Own Authority
First Reading: Amos 7:10-15.
Second Reading: Titus 1:5-9.
Gospel: Mark 6:7-13
Sermon: Titus 1:5-9. Your Pastor Has a Trustworthy Message
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Seventh Sunday After Pentecost, July 7, 2024
Meaningful Ministry: Not Glee and Gratitude, but Rejection ad Resentment
First Reading: Ezekiel 2:1-7.
Second Reading: 2 Timothy 2:1-13.
Gospel: Mark 6:1-6
Sermon: Ezekiel 2:1-7. Stand Up and Speak for God!
Pastor Ron Koehler
Sixth Sunday After Pentecost, June 30, 2024
A Top-Down-Faith Series (Truths about God Too Good to Make Up)
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost: The Living Lord Completely Changes Our View of Death
First Reading: Lamentations 3:22-33.
Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 4:7-15.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Mark 5:21-24a, 35-43. Jesus Conquer the Fear of Death with Compassion and Power
Pastor Ron Koehler
Fifth Sunday After Pentecost, June 23, 2024
A Top-Down-Faith Series (Truths about God Too Good to Make Up)
Fifth Sunday after Pentecost: Our Gracious God Is With Us through All the Storms of Life
First Reading: Job 38:1-11.
Second Reading: Acts 27:13-26.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Mark 4:35-41. Even the Wind and the Sea Obey Him
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Fourth Sunday After Pentecost, June 16, 2024
A Top-Down-Faith Series (Truths about God Too Good to Make Up)
Fourth Sunday after Pentecost: From the Tiniest Seed Grows the Largest Kingdom
First Reading: Ezekiel 17:22-24.
Second Reading: Colossians 1:3-8.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Mark 4:26-35. God Grows His Kingdom His Way
- With His People
- By His Power
- At His Pace
Pastor Ron Koehler
Third Sunday After Pentecost, June 9, 2024
A Top-Down-Faith Series (Truths about God Too Good to Make Up)
Third Sunday after Pentecost: The Devil Does His Worse, But Jesus Always Wins
First Reading: Genesis 3:8-15.
Second Reading: Revelation 20:1-6.
Gospel: Mark 3:20-35.
Sermon Text: Genesis 3:8-15. He Will Crush the Serpent’s Head
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Second Sunday After Pentecost, June 2, 2024
A Top-Down-Faith Series (Truths about God Too Good to Make Up)
Second Sunday after Pentecost: Rest is a Gift, Not Something to be Earned
First Reading: Deuteronomy 5:12-15.
Second Reading: Colossians 2:13-17.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Mark 2:23 - 3:6. Sabbath Day Lessons
- Learn how to view the Law of God
- Learn how Jesus is the Lord of the Sabbath
Pastor Ron Koehler
Trinity Sunday, May 26, 2024
A Top-Down-Faith Series (Truths about God Too Good to Make Up)
First Sunday after Pentecost: Only a Triune God Can Deliver What Only a Triune God Can Offer
First Reading: Isaiah 6:1-8.
Second Reading: Romans 8:12-17.
Gospel: John 3:1-17
Sermon Text: Romans 8:12-17. A Simple Message from a Complex God: We are God’s Children
Pastor Nate Kassulke
The Day of Pentecost, May 19, 2024
The Love of God (Christ Has Not Left Us Alone)
First Reading: Ezekiel 37::1-14.
Second Reading: Acts 2:1-21.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 15:26-27; 16:4-11
Pastor Ron Koehler
The Ascension of our Lord, May 12, 2024
The Love of God (Jesus Business is Love; Therefore, So Is Ours)
First Reading: Acts 1:1-11
Second Reading: Ephesians 4:7-16
Gospel: Luke 24:44-53
Pastor Tim Patoka
Sixth Sunday after Easter, April 28, 2024 Confirmation Sunday
The Love of God (Jesus Business is Love; Therefore, So Is Ours)
First Reading: Acts 9:36-42
Second Reading: 1 John 4:7-11, 19-21
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 15:9-17. Love One Another
Pastor Tim Patoka
Fifth Sunday after Easter, April 28, 2024
The Love of God (Four Devotions from Ephesians and 1 John)
Ephesians 1:4. Love Chose
1 John 4:9-10. Love Sent
Ephesians 1:13. Love Found
Ephesians 5:1-2. Love Returned
Pastor Ron Koehler
Good Shepherd Sunday, April 21, 2024
Resurrection Reality Series: The Risen Savior Provides Good Shepherding
First Reading: Acts 20:28-32
Second Reading: 1 John 4:1-6
Gospel: John 10:11-189
Sermon Text: 1 John 4:1-6. The Risen Savior Provides Good Shepherding
Pastor Tim Patoka
Third Easter Sunday, April 14, 2024
Resurrection Reality Series: We have a Meaningful Message to Share
First Reading: Acts 3:11-20
Second Reading: 1 John 1:5-2:2
Gospel: Luke 24:36-49
Sermon Text: 1 John 1:5-2:2. Our Meaningful Message is Valid and Valuable
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Second Easter Sunday, April 7, 2024
Resurrection Reality Series: The Living Lord Gives Proof and Peace
First Reading: Acts 18:1-11
Second Reading: 1 John 1:1-4
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 20:19-31. The Presence of Jesus Brings Proof and Peace
Pastor Ron Koehler
Easter Sunday, March 31, 2024
Resurrection Reality Series: Easter Festival Service: All Will Be Made Alive
First Reading: Job 19:23-27
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 15: 19-26
Gospel: Mark 16:1-8
Sermon Text: Job 19:23-27. I Know That My Redeemer Lives
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Good Friday Worship Service, March 29, 2024
God on Trial Midweek Lenten Series
An Unusual Trial: Hebrews 2:10-17
The Trial Begins: Mark 15:20-24, Isaiah 53:3
Evidence Demanded by the Crowd: Mark 15:25-30, Isaiah 53:3
Evidence Demanded by the Jewish Leaders: Matthew 27:41-43, Isaiah 53:4
Evidence Demanded by the Roman Soldiers: Luke 23:36-37, Isaiah 53:4-5
Evidence Demanded by Criminals: Luke 23:39-44, Isaiah 53:5
Evidence Demanded by People Still Today: Luke 23:44-46, Isaiah 53:6
The Evidence is Coming: Mark 15:42-46, Isaiah 53:8
Pastor Ron Koehler
Holy Thursday Worship Service, March 28, 2024
God on Trial Midweek Lenten Series
First Reading: Psalm 116
First Reading: Exodus 12:21-30
Sermon: Luke 22:7-20. God on Trial: Respite
Pastor Tim Patoka
Palm Sunday, March 24, 2024
Palm Sunday (Passion Sunday) Mark 11, 14, 15
The entrance of Jesus into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday begins the account of Jesus’ Passion, which will bring us finally to a joyous celebration of Christ’s resurrection next Sunday. The Passion History service allows sus to see the full path of our Savior’s Passion and prepares us for our celebration on Easter
Pastor Ron Koehler
Midweek Lenten Worship Service, March 20, 2024
God on Trial Midweek Lenten Series
First Reading: Psalm 138.
Passion History According to St. Mark, Mark 15:16-47
Sermon: Luke 23:26-34. God on Trial: Sympathy
Pastor Ron Koehler
Fifth Sunday in Lent, March 17, 2024
Rethinking Religion Series, Week 5: Rethinking Devoted Commitment
First Reading: Isaiah 43:1-7
Second Reading: Hebrews 5:7-9.
Gospel and Sermon Text:: John 12:20-33. Rethinking Devoted Commitment
- Jesus’ for others
- Ours for Him
Pastor Tim Patoka
Midweek Lenten Worship Service, March 13, 2024
God on Trial Midweek Lenten Series
First Reading: Psalm 1.
Passion History According to St. Mark, Mark 14:66-15:15.
Sermon: John 18:33-40. God on Trial: Truth
Pastor Ryan Heiman
Fourth Sunday in Lent, March 10, 2024
Rethinking Religion Series, Week 4: Rethinking the Solution to Sin
First Reading: Numbers 21:4-9.
Second Reading: Ephesians 2:1-10.
Gospel: John 3:14-21.
Sermon Text: Numbers 21:4-9. See God’s Surprising Solution
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Midweek Lenten Worship Service, March 6, 2024
God on Trial Midweek Lenten Series
First Reading: Psalm 2.
Passion History According to St. Mark, Mark 14:43-65.
Sermon: Luke 23:1-12. God on Trial: Misconceptions
Pastor Tim Patoka
Third Sunday in Lent, March 3, 2024
Rethinking Religion Series, Week 3: Rethinking Suffering under the Cross
First Reading: Exodus 20:1-17.
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:18-25.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 2:13-22. Learn from Jesus How to Worship
Pastor Ron Koehler
Midweek Lenten Worship Service, February 28, 2024
God on Trial Midweek Lenten Series
First Reading: Psalm 119.
Passion History According to St. Mark, Mark 14:27-42.
Sermon: Matthew 26:57-75. God on Trial: Testimony
Pastor David Parsons, Holy Cross Lutheran Church
Second Sunday in Lent, February 25, 2024
Rethinking Religion Series, Week 2: Rethinking Suffering under the Cross
First Reading: Job 1:13-22.
Second Reading: Romans 5:1-11
Gospel and Sermon Text: Mark 8:31-38. Where is Your Mind Set?
Pastor Timm Patoka
Midweek Lenten Worship Service, February 21, 2024
God on Trial Midweek Lenten Series
First Reading: Psalm 71.
Passion History According to St. Mark, Mark 14:1-26.
Sermon: Luke 22:47-53. God on Trial: Restraint
Pastor Seth Scheuerlein
First Sunday in Lent, February 18, 2024
Rethinking Religion Series, Week 1: Rethinking Trials, Test, and Temptations
First Reading: Genesis 22:1-18.
Second Reading: Romans 8:31-39
Gospel: Mark 1:12-15.
Sermon: Genesis 22:1-18. The LORD Will Provide
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Ash Wednesday, February 14, 2024
God on Trial Midweek Lenten Series
First Reading: Joel 2:12-19.
Second Reading: Revelation 3:1-3
Gospel: Luke 12:13-21
Sermon: Job 40:1-2; 42:1-6. God on Trial: Accusations
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Transfiguration Sunday, February 11, 2024
From the River to the Mountain: A Glimpse of His True Glory
First Reading: 2 Kings 2:1-12.
Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 4:3-6
Gospel: Mark 9:2-9
Pastor Ron Koehler
The Fifth Sunday after Epiphany, February 4, 2024
From the River to the Mountain: The Devil’s Work Undone
First Reading: Isaiah 40:27-31
Second Reading: 1 Peter 5:6-11
Gospel: Mark 1: 29-39
Pastor Nate Kassulke
The Fourth Sunday after Epiphany, January 28, 2024
From the River to the Mountain: Absolute Authority
First Reading: Deuteronomy 18:15-20.
Second Reading: Hebrews 3:1-6.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Mark 1:21-28. Spread the News of Jesus’ Authority
Pastor Tim Pakoka
The Third Sunday after Epiphany, January 21, 2024
From the River to the Mountain: Committed to a Lofty Charge
First Reading: Jonah 3:1-5, 10.
Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 4:14-21.
Gospel: Mark 1:14-20.
Sermon: 2 Corinthians 5:14-21
Written by Pastor Ron Koehler as read by Pastor Tim Pakoka
The Baptism of Our Lord, January 14, 2024
From the River to the Mountain: It Begins with Baptism
First Reading: Isaiah 49:1-6. Through the pen of the prophet Isaiah, the Messiah himself speaks of the work he would do when he was anointed at his baptism.
Second Reading: Romans 6:1-11. St Paul connects our baptism to Christ.
Gospel: Mark 1:4-11. Jesus’ public ministry begins with the anointing he received in his baptism.
Sermon: Romans 6:1-11. Consider Your Baptized Self: Dead to Sin; Alive to God.
Because of our union with Jesus’ death and resurrection, sin has no place in our life. We are forgiven of every sin an no longer desire to live in it any longer. We have a new life that is freed to serve God with Christ at our side.
Pastor Tim Patoka
The Epiphany of our Lord, Sunday, January 7, 2024
Good News of Great Joy: For All People
First Reading: Numbers 24:15-17. God compels the heathen magician Balaam to prophesy that out of the nation of Israel would come one who would shine like a star for all people to see.
Second Reading: Romans 11:13-15, 28-32. Paul writes about his passion for sharing the good news with all peoples.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Matthew 2:1-12. Wise Ones Worship Jesus.
Thanks be to God for his good news of great joy for all people. Thanks be to God who has le us to believe that wise ones worship Jesus.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
The First Sunday After Christmas, December 31, 2023
Good News of Great Joy: Peace on Earth
First Reading: 1 Kings 8:6-13. King Solomon dedicates the temple, a place where the glory of the LORD would be revealed as the peace of salvation was proclaimed.
Second Reading: Colossians 3:12-17. As the peace of Christ rules our hearts, we are moved to live in peace.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Luke 2:22-40. The Baby Who Brought Peace.
Christmas is really about God giving to you—giving you peace through his Son: peace in your heart like Simeon had; a peace that you can share with people around you, like Anna did.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Christmas Day Service, December 25, 2023
Good News of Great Joy: God Became Man
First Reading: Micah 5:2-5.
Second Reading: Galatians 4:4-7.
Psalm 98.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 1:1-18. God Became Man.
Be filled with great joy over the angels’ good news: God became man to redeem you and make you his child through faith.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Christmas Eve Candelite Service, December 24, 2023
Good News of Great Joy: A Savior Has Been Born To Us
Genesis 3:8-16 Good News First Shared
Isaiah 7:10-14: Good News in an Impossible Sign
Micah 5:2-5 Good News from a Little Town
Luke 2:1-7 Good New: He is born!
Luke 2:8-14 Good News of Great Joy
Luke 2;15-20 Good New to Share
Titus 3:4-7 Good News of Eternal Life
Pastor Ron Koehler
Sunday Morning Christmas Eve Service, December 24, 2023
Good News of Great Joy: God Keeps His Promises
First Reading: 2 Samuel 7:8-16.
Second Reading: Romans 17:25-27.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Luke 1:26-38. You Have Found Favor with God
For all the people of the world, Jesus came to be our Savior. God was keeping the promises he had made.
And because of that good news of great joy at Jesus birth comes this good news of great joy for us: you have found favor with God.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Third Sunday of Advent, December 17, 2023
2023 Advent Series: The King Shall Come
First Reading: Isaiah 61:1-3, 10-11.
Second Reading: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24.
Gospel: John 1:6-8, 19-28
Sermon Text: Isaiah 61:1-3, 10-11. Rejoice in the Lord!
- For His Good News
- For He Certainly Clothes Us
Pastor Tim Patoka
Third Midweek Advent Worship, December 13, 2023
2023 Advent Series: The King Shall Come
First Reading: 1 Peter 2: 9-12.
Gospel: Luke 1:46-55.
Sermon Text: Numbers 13: 16-20, 26-32, 14: 26-35. Exiled by Fear and Unbelief
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Second Sunday of Advent, December 10, 2023
2023 Advent Series: The King Shall Come
First Reading: Isaiah 40:1-11.
Second Reading: 2 Peter 3:8-14 .
Gospel: Mark 1:1-8
Sermon Text: 2 Peter 3:8-14. Christians Are Always Ready for the Last Day
- Because we understand what God is like.
- Because we know how all this ends.
- Because we are looking forward to the End.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Second Midweek Advent Worship, December 6, 2023
2023 Advent Series: The King Shall Come
First Reading: 1 Peter 1:13-21.
Gospel: Luke 1:13-17.
Sermon Text: Genesis 3:21-24. Exiled by Sin and Death.
Pastor Seth Scheuerlein
First Sunday of Advent, December 3, 2023
2023 Advent Series: The King Shall Come
First Reading: Isaiah 64:1-9.
Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:3-9.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Mark 11:1-10. Our King Is Coming to Save Us
It’s the beginning of a new church year. We are about to embark again on our review of the life, death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ. We will ponder how his life has changed and continues to change ours. We will see Jesus again and again for who he truly is: our King. Our King comes to save us!
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Midweek Advent, Wednesday, November 29, 2023
First Midweek Advent Service
First Reading: Psalm 139: 13-24.
Gospel: Luke 1:67-79.
Sermon Text: Psalm 137. Exiled by Enemies and Tormentors.
Jesus came to save us from being spiritually exiled by our enemies and tormentors. Instead of being distanced from him and without hope, he brought us close to him He rescued us from being held captive by sin and deaeth and the Devil. Our LORD is with us just as he continued to e with his people in captivity.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Last Sunday of the Church Year, Sunday, November 26, 2023
Last Sunday in the Church Year
First Reading: Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14.
Second Reading: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
Gospel: Matthew 25:31-46.
Sermon Text: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. Yearn for the Lord to Return
We cannot help but yearn for the Lord to return because he will usher in a much better quality of life than we could ever have dreamed. Not only will we continue to e not guilty of sin because of Jesus, but also we’ll never sin again. And it will last for eternity, without end.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Thanksgiving Eve Service, Wednesday, November 22, 2023
Thanksgiving Eve Service
First Reading: Deuteronomy 8:10-18.
Second Reading: Philippians 4:10-20
Gospel: Luke 17:11-19.
Sermon Text: 2 Corinthians 9:15. Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!
Pastor Ryan Heiman
Twenty-fifth Sunday after Pentecost, Sunday, November 19, 2023
Godly Giving: Confident Generosity
First Reading: Malachi 3:6-12. God offered his Old Testament believers the opportunity to test his promises.
Gospel: Matthew 19:16-26. The promise of treasure in heaven was not enough to inspire the confidence of the rich young man.
Sermon Text: 2 Corinthians 9:8-15. Confident Generosity
We cannot possibly out-give God’s grace. He gives us promise after amazing promise so we can be confident as we strive to spend the gifts he has given us to God’s glory and for the good of many.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Twenty-fourth Sunday after Pentecost, Sunday, November 12, 2023
Godly Giving: Generous People of a Generous God
First Reading: Deuteronomy 26:1-11.
Gospel: Luke 12:13-21.
Sermon Text: 2 Corinthians 9:1-7. Generous People of a Generous God
God was happy to give to you and he wants you to be happy when you give to him. Then see the love and blessing God pours out on us and others as we all give together to support our sharing of the Jesus as the world’s Savior.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Twenty-third Sunday after Pentecost, Sunday, November 5, 2023
Godly Giving: Contagious Generosity
First Reading: 1 Chronicles 22:11-16.
Gospel: Mark 12:41-44.
Sermon Text: 2 Corinthians 8:1-12. Overflow with Contagious Generosity
As the salt of the earth who preserves it from sin’s decay and the light of the world who shares Christ with sin-blinded people, you can model godly giving to reflect God’s will and priorities in the secular world
Pastor Tim Patoka
Reformation Service, Sunday, October 29, 2023
First Reading: Isaiah 40:1-8.
Second Reading: 1 Peter 1:13-25.
Gospel: Luke 21: 10-19, 32-33.
Sermon Text: Isaiah 40:1-8. The Word of our God Stands Forever.
Guest Preacher: Pastor Earle Treptow, President, Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary
Reformation Sunday, October 29, 2023
The Festival of Reformation emphasizes the true Church’s unfailing reliance on the Word of God and unflinching testimony to that Word even in the face of harsh persecution.
First Reading: Daniel 6:10-12, 16-23. Daniel demonstrated his steadfast faith.
Second Reading: Romans 3: 19-28. God justifies those who have been given the gift of steadfast faith in Jesus.
Gospel: Matthew 10:16-23. Our trust in Jesus doesn’t mean absence of persecution, but faithfulness.
Sermon Text: Daniel 6:10-12, 16-23. The God You Serve Shuts Lions’ Mouths.
You will face ‘lions’ in your life. You will be tempted to stop serving and loving God and to instead save your own skin or maintain your own comfort. You have a God who has given you salvation and amazing promises. Serve him, pray to him, confess his love, and do not be afraid.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Twenty-First Sunday after Pentecost, October 22, 2023
Godly Government: Christians support our government simply because it was instituted by God. Jesus himself taught that we owe respect and obedience to our government.
First Reading: Daniel 1:3-21. Daniel and his friends faithfully served the government that God had placed over them.
Second Reading: Romans 13:1-7. Everyone is to submit to the governing authorities established by God.
Gospel: Matthew 22: 15-22. Jesus teaches we are to give the government what belongs to the government. But we are not to give to the government what belongs only to God.
Sermon Text: Romans 13:1-7. Submit to the Governing Authorities.
See our governing authorities in the light of the Bible: God’s servant who cares for and protects us through them.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost, October 15, 2023
Tell Us a Story: Jesus’ Powerful Parables
It may not always be simple to understand the stories Jesus tells in his parables. But the lessons he teaches are incredibly valuable. By the power of the Holy Spirit in our hearts, these are the best stories for us to hear.
First Reading: Isaiah 25:6-9. The prophet Isaiah describes the heavenly banquet where death and tears will be no more.
Second Reading: Romans 1:16-19. We are saved through faith alone.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Matthew 22: 1-14. The Foolish Rejection of a Gracious Invitation.
Three days before his death in Israel’s Holy City, Jesus was still reaching out in an effort to save the lost. We have received Jesus’ gracious invitation, too. Do not be foolish and turn down his invitation.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost, October 8, 2023
Tell Us a Story: Jesus’ Powerful Parables
It may not always be simple to understand the stories Jesus tells in his parables. But the lessons he teaches are incredibly valuable. By the power of the Holy Spirit in our hearts, these are the best stories for us to hear.
First Reading: Isaiah 5:1-7. The LORD pictures his patient love for Israel as an owner of a vineyard patiently waiting for a good crop of fruit.
Second Reading: Philippians 3:12-21. Through Christ we have already attained the kingdom of heaven. God patiently waits for us to respond to his grace by living drastically different lives than the people of the world.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Matthew 21:33-43. Tell Us a Story of Reckless Patience.
This story of reckless patience reminds us that God is patient not only with Jewish leaders but also with you and me. I can be patient with others when I remember how God’s patience with me has been so extreme and we can only stand in awe of God’s amazing grace. We thank God for making us a part of his eternal kingdom and we bring forth fruits of faith as he empowers us.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost, October 1, 2023
Tell Us a Story: Jesus’ Powerful Parables
It may not always be simple to understand the stories Jesus tells in his parables. But the lessons he teaches are incredibly valuable. By the power of the Holy Spirit in our hearts, these are the best stories for us to hear.
First Reading: Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32. The prophet Ezekiel gives a strong warning to Christians who have grown dismissive of their sin.
Second Reading: Philippians 2:1-11. Moved by Christ’s love and empowered by the Spirit, we sincerely attempt to imitate the selflessness and humility of our Savior Jesus.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Matthew 21:23-32. As Our Father Wills.
Jesus Christ, God’s own Son, came to take our sins away with his perfect life, innocent death, and resurrection from the grave so we can sincerely agree to all our Father in heaven wills as we live for him in thanks and faith, follow through on our good intentions and lead others to ask about our Savior Jesus Christ, God’s own Son.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost, September 24, 2023
Tell Us a Story: Jesus’ Powerful Parables
It may not always be simple to understand the stories Jesus tells in his parables. But the lessons he teaches are incredibly valuable. By the power of the Holy Spirit in our hearts, these are the best stories for us to hear.
First Reading: Jonah 3:10-4:11.
Second Reading: Romans 9:6-16.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Matthew 20:1-16. Tell Us a Story of Perplexing Generosity
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost, September 17, 2023
The Church God Wants: A Church That’s Quick to Forgive
First Reading: Genesis 50:15-21.
Second Reading: Ephesians 4:29-5:2.
Gospel: Matthew 18:21-35.
Sermon: Genesis 50:15-21. The Example of Joseph Inspires Us.
- To Forgive as God Forgives You
- To Extend Comfort and Kindness
Pastor Ron Koehler
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost, September 10, 2023
The Church God Wants: A Church Willing to Day Hard Things
First Reading: Ezekiel 33:7-11.
Second Reading: Galatians 2:11-16.
Gospel: Matthew 18:15-20.
Sermon: Turn From Your Evil Ways and Live! (Ezekiel 33:7-11.
- It’s hard to mean it
- It’s hard to say it
Pastor Tim Patoka
Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost, September 3, 2023
The Church God Wants: A Church That Takes Up Its Crosses
First Reading: Jeremiah 15:15-21.
Second Reading: Romans 8:18-25.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Matthew 16:21-26. Comfort in Crosses
We find comfort in our crosses when we look to Jesus and his cross and remember what he did for us.
We can rely on God’s promises which remind us that he is with us and supporting us and that as his disciples we can be confident that after a lifetime of bearing crosses will come a crown—the crown of eternal life with our Savior.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost, August 27, 2023
The Church God Wants
First Reading: Exodus 34:5-9.
Second Reading: Romans 10:5-13.
Gospel: Matthew 16:13-20
Sermon: The Lord Proclaims His Name (Exodus 34:5-9)
The name of the Lord is incredible news and an incredible comfort for stiff-necked people like us.
He is compassionate and gracious and loving and forgiving.
He is overflowing with mercy and truth. And in his mercy, the Lord forgives.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost, August 20, 2023
The Church God Wants
First Reading: Isaiah 56: 1, 6-8.
Second Reading: Ephesians 2:13-22.
Gospel: Matthew 15: 21-28
Sermon: A Church for All People (Ephesians 2:13-22)
Our Lord’s promises and blessings are for all. He’s given them to us through faith in Jesus. May we share it with all others as we help our church be what God wants: a church for all people.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost, August 13, 2023
Define Christian Series
First Reading: 1 Kings 19:9-18.
Second Reading: Romans 8:28-39.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Matthew 14:122-33. A Christian Answers Doubt with Faith
Ultimately, our Savior will grab our hand and pull us up out of this stormy world and into the peace of heaven where we will worship him eternally. No more days of being battered by life’s furious winds, but only the eternal calm that will come from being in our Savior’s presence in heaven
Pastor Ron Koehler
Tenth Sunday after Pentecost, August 6, 2023
Define Christian Series
First Reading: 1 Kings 17:1-6.
Second Reading: Ephesians 1:3-10.
Gospel: Matthew 14:13-31.
Sermon: 1 Kings 17:1-6. Trust in God to Provide
Having heard God promise to provide for your bodily and spiritual needs and seen him do so, trust in God to provide. He has a perfect track record, can do anything, and has given this promise to you.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Ninth Sunday after Pentecost, July 30, 2023
Define Christian Series
First Reading: 1 Kings 3:5-12.
Second Reading: 1 Timothy 6:17-21.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Matthew 13: 44-52. The Kingdom of Heaven is Your Trasure.
Jesus wants us to know what an amazing treasure—the kingdom of heaven— we have in him.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Eighth Sunday after Pentecost, July 23, 2023
Define Christian Series
First Reading: Isaiah 44:6-11.
Second Reading: Romans 1:18-25.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Matthew 13: 24-30, 36-43. Christians Live as Wheat Among the Weeds.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Seventh Sunday after Pentecost, July 16, 2023
Define Christian Series
A Christian is one who needs God’s Word to rain down on us. It calls us to repent, it shows us God’s greatness, and it accomplishes his good purposes in our lives. Thanks be to God that he rains it down on us.
First Reading: Isaiah 55:6-11.
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 3:5-11.
Gospel: Matthew 13: 1-9, 18-23.
Sermon Text: Isaiah 55:6-11. God’s Word Rains Down on Us.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost, July 9, 2023
Define Christian Series
A Christian is one who runs to Christ for a rest that comes from God. When we’re weary and burdened, we rest in Jesus for the unique, lasting rest.
First Reading: Exodus 33: 12-23.
Second Reading: Romans 7:15-25.
Gospel: Matthew 11: 25-30. Rest in Jesus.
Rest in Jesus when you’re weary and burdened and whenever you are wearing the wrong yoke.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Fifth Sunday after Pentecost, July 2, 2023
Define Christian Series
A Christian is one who runs to Christ for forgiveness because he has failed to l ive like what he is—a Christian. As we receive the mercy of Christ, it moves us to strive with all our being to follow Christ’s example, doing all the things Jesus says that Christians do.
First Reading: Exodus 32:15-29. .
Second Reading: 1 Timothy 6:11-16.
Gospel: Matthew 10:34-42. A Christian Loves God Above All
This brings earthly opposition
This brings Heavenly Rewards
Pastor Ron Koehler
Fourth Sunday after Pentecost, June 25, 2023
The Holy Ministry
First Reading: Jeremiah 20:7-13.
Second Reading and Sermon Text: 2 Timothy 4:1-8.
Gospel: Matthew 10:5, 21-33..
Pastor Tim Patoka
Third Sunday after Pentecost, June 18, 2023
The Holy Ministry
First Reading: Numbers 27:15-23. Moses’ life and ministry were coming to an end. God in compassion for his people, had Moses appoint Joshua to take his place.
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 4:1-7. The congregation in Corinth was troubled and divided. Paul wrote them, not out of anger, but out of compassion—not to shame them, but to warn them.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Matthew 9:35-10:8. Jesus Shows Compassion to Shepherdless Sheep.
Crowds of people were coming to Jesus. They were made up of people who were born in sin and unbelief, just like all the other people born into this world including you and me. They needed help, they needed a Savior. Jesus had compassion on them and instructed his disciples to pray and then to spread the Gospel.
Today we pray that God would send workers to reach people we see around us with the assurances of forgiveness of sins, life and salvation. And we pray that we will support this with our prayers, and to give generously to our mission field to help this happen.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Second Sunday after Pentecost, June 11, 2023
The Holy Ministry
First Reading: Exodus 3:1-5.
Second Reading: ! Timothy 1:12-17.
Gospel: Matthew 9:9-13.
Sermon: Exodus 3:1-5. God’s Ministers Are:
Called by Grace
Called to Serve
Pastor Ron Koehler
Trinity Sunday, June 4, 2023
God in Three Persons, Blessed Trinity
First Reading: Acts 2: 1-21. Genesis 1:1 - 2:3. The triune God demonstrates his power at Creation
Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 13:14. By sharing his grace, love, and fellowship, the Trinity gives us unity and peace.
Gospel: Matthew 28:16-20. Jesus calls us to do ministry in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Sermon: 2 Corinthians 13:14. Benediction Blessings.
The Grace of the Lord Jesus Christ
The Love of God
The Fellowship of the Holy Spirit
Pastor Ron Koehler
Pentecost Sunday, May 28, 2023
Jesus Lives Series: He Lives to Pour Out His Spirit
First Reading: Acts 2: 1-21. The pouring out of the Spirit onto the Church so they could proclaim his gospel to the world.
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:3-11. God gives his Spirit to us so that we might be of benefit to the entire Church.
Gospel: John 7:37-39. Jesus promised that those who were spiritually thirsty would be filled with living water.
Sermon: 1 Corinthians 12:3-11. Same Source, Different Gifts.
Christians have the same source for the gifts they have received (God).
Christians are equipped differently.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Ascension Sunday, May 14, 2023
Jesus Lives Series: He Lives to Rule All Things for the Church
First Reading: Acts 1:1-11.
Second Reading: Ephesians 1:15-23.
Gospel: Luke 24:44-53.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Sixth Sunday of Easter Service, May 14, 2023
Jesus Lives Series: The True God Makes Himself Known
First Reading: Acts 17:22-31.
Second Reading: 1 Peter 3:13-22.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 14:15-21.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Confirmation Sunday, Fifth Sunday of Easter Service, May 7, 2023
Jesus Lives Series: He Lives to Be the Only Way to Heaven
First Reading: Acts 4:8-12.
Second Reading: 1 Peter 2:4-10.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 14:1-11.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Good Shepherd Sunday, Fourth Sunday of Easter Service, April 30, 2023
Jesus Lives Series: He Lives to Be My Good Shepherd
First Reading: Acts 2:42-47. The early church was marked by devotion to apostolic teaching and genuine love for one another.
Second Reading: 1 Peter 2:19-25. St. Peter calls on us to foow our Shepherd and Overseer, even if it means that we suffer for doing good.
Gospel: John 10:1-10. Jesus is not only our Good Shepherd, he is the gate through which we enter into the green pastures of savation.
Sermon Text: 1 Peter 2:19-25. Suffering for Doing Good.
Jesus is the Good Shepherd who went after you when you were sufering, lost in in sin. He suffered for you and brought you forgiveness and eternal life. He is continually caring for you and guiding you as a shepherd does for his sheep.
We look forward to the time when our Good Shepherd leads us from this world to the pastures of heaven where there is no suffering of any kind.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Third Sunday of Easter Service, April 23, 2023
Jesus Lives Series: He Lives to Restore My Hope
First Reading: Acts 2:14, 32-41
Second Reading: 1 Peter 1:17-21
Gospel and Sermon Text: Luke 24:13-35. Recognizing Jesus Gives Us Hope
Pastor Nathan Kassuke
Second Sunday of Easter Service, April 16, 2023
Jesus Lives Series: He Lives to Give Me Proof and Peace
First Reading: Acts 2:14, 22-32
Second Reading: 1 Peter 1:3-9
Gospel: John 20:19-31
Sermon Text: 1 Peter 1:3-9. Rejoice in Your New Birth
Pastor Tim Patoka
Easter Service, April 9, 2023
Easter 10:00 Service: Salvation Belongs to the LORD. Jonah 2:2-9
Pastor Tim Patoka
Easter Sunrise Service, April 9, 2023
Easter Sunrise Service: Jesus Final Steps Led to His First Steps. John 20:11-18
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Good Friday Tenebrae Service, April 7, 2023
Jesus Final Steps
His Final Steps Led to Pilate. Matthew 27:1-2, 11-14.
His Final Steps Led to Barabbas. Matthew 27: 15-26
His Final Steps Led to the Praetorium. Matthew 27: 27-30.
His Final Steps Led to Golgotha. Matthew 27:31-41
His Final Steps Led to Hell. Matthew 27: 45-49.
His Final Steps Led to Death. Matthew 27:50-54.
His Final Steps Led to the Tomb. Matthew 27:55-61
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Maundy Thursday, April 6, 2023
Jesus Final Steps
First Reading: Exodus 24:1-11.
Psalm 116. I love the Lord because he hears my voice
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 11:23-28.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Mark 14:12-18, 22-24. His Final Steps Led to the Upper Room.
The Last Supper
Pastor Ron Koehler
Palm Sunday, April 2,, 2023
: A Greater Type of King
First Reading: Zechariah 9:9-10. The prophet foretold of a Savior King who would rule with gentleness and bring peace to the ends of the earth.
Second Reading: Philippians 2:5-11. There is none greater than King Jesus. Yet there is none humbler than King Jesus.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Matthew 21:1-11. Look, Your King Comes to You.
Jesus humbly entered David’s Royal City Jerusalem in the name of the Lord to save us. He is powerful; he is humble; he is focused.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Midweek Lenten Service, Wednesday, March 29, 2023
His Final Steps
Psalm 118: The Lord is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation
Passion History according to Matthew’s Gospel: Matthew 27:27-66
Sermon Text: Luke 20:9-19. His Final Steps Led to His Enemies
Pastor Tim Patoka
Fifth Sunday in Lent, Sunday, March 26, 2023
Our Greatest Needs: Life for the Dead
Sermon Text: 2 Kings 4:17-37. Is Death Final?
Pastor Tim Patoka
Midweek Lenten Service, Wednesday, March 22, 2023
First Reading: Psalm 29
Passion History According to St. Matthew: Matthew 27:1-26
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 12:20-33. His Final Steps Led to Some Greeks
Pastor Davidi Parsons
Fourth Sunday in Lent, Sunday, March 19, 2023
First Reading: Isaiah 42:14-21. God promises to lead the blind to safety and turn their darkness to light.
Second Reading: Ephesians 5:8-14. Jesus tells us to walk as children of the light.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 9:1-7, 13-17, 34-39. Jesus Give Us True Light
Jesus wants us to love and serve him. He wants us to glorify him. God wants our sinful lives to change, but that is not what brings us closer to God. God brings us to himself and the result is that our lives change and we serve and love him
We have not just been given sight, but also eternal life in heaven. This is what we have to share with others. And this is what we have to cherish and to hold dear and to read and learn and study.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Midweek Lent Service, Wednesday, March 15, 2023
First Reading: Psalm 4. ...In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.
Passion History According to St. Matthew’s Gospel. Matthew 26:57-75.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Mark 11:12-14, 20-25. His Final Steps Led to a Fig Tree.
Jesus final steps on Monday and Tuesday of Holy Week led to a fig tree. It taught a lesson about bearing fruit, and it taught a lesson about the power of prayer. God grant that we take its lessons to heart, and God grant that we see the amazing things that he has promised us in Jesus
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
The Third Sunday in Lent, March 12, 2023
First Reading: Exodus 17:1-7. The children of Israel wanted to stone Moses because they were thirsty. So God, in his grace, gave this undeserving people water from a stone.
Second Reading: Romans 5:1-8. We were like people dying of thirst who were powerless to help themselves. But God’s love has been poured out into our hearts like living water.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 4:5-27. Our Greatest Needs: Water for the Thirsty
Drink from Jesus’ living water in worship alongside brothers and sisters in Christ who likewise worship God in spirit and in truth.
Drink from Jesus’ living water in Bible study and home devotions as you examine the Scripture that God wrote for you.
Drink from Jesus’ living water so that you may always and forever quench your soul’s thirst.
Amen
Pastor Tim Patoka
Midweek Lenten Worship, March 8, 2023
First Reading: Psalm 8
Passion History Reading: Matthew 26:36-56
Sermon Text: Matthew 21:12-17. His Final Steps Led to His Father’s House
Pastor Ryan Heiman
Second Sunday in Lent, March 5, 2023
First Reading: Genesis 12:1-8. The LORD promised Abram that one of his descendants would be a gift for the world. God also gave Abram the gift of faith to believe that promise.
Second Reading.: Romans 4:1-5, 13-17. Abraham provides an example of how salvation is not earned but received as a gift through faith.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 3:1-17. Jesus is God’s Heavenly Gift to You.
The whole world could not do anything to help or save themselves. God gave us the most precious gift: Jesus. He is God’s heavenly gift for the world and for you
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Midweek Lenten Service, March 1, 2023
Psalm 138, Prayer. Lord, we bow down to you in thankful praise. You have made your ways known to both lowly and great on the earth. You have not abandoned the work of your hands, but instead you have redeemed us through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord
Week 1 Passion History according to St. Matthew’s Gospel: Matthew 26;1-35.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 12:1-11. His Final Steps Led to a Dinner Celebration.
Pastor Seth Scheuerlein
First Sunday in Lent, February 26, 2023
First Lesson: Genesis 3: 1-15.
Second Lesson: Romans 5:12-19.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Matthew 4:1-11. The Duel In The Desert.
Jesus defeated Satan for us because we often give in to Satan’s temptations and sin against God.
We learn from Jesus how to battle the devil when we are tempted—with the Word and promises of God and a trust in him above all things.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Ash Wednesday Service, February 22, 2023
First Lesson: Isaiah 59:12-20.
Second Lesson: 2 Corinthians 7:8-13.
Gospel and Semon Text: John 11:1-53. His Final Steps Led to a Tomb.
Our lives should take toheart the message of the waiting and the warning and the weeping.
And our hearts will be comforted by the waking and the winning.
Lord Jesus, thank you for walking these steps for me.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Last Sunday After Epiphany, Sunday, February 19, 2023
First Reading: Exodus 24:9-18. Moses saw the glory of the Lord as a terrifying fire on Mount Sinai.
Second Reading: 2 Peter 1:16-21. St. Peter testifies to the reliability of the Christian faith. Peter was an eye witness to the majesty and glory of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
Gospel: Matthew 17:1-9. The transfiguration of our Lord.
Sermon: 2 Peter 1:16-21. The Glory of the Lord Jesus Christ.
This event is confirmed by witnesses: the Disciples Peter, James and John.
This event has been preserved in the Word, the inherent and inspired words of God.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Fifth Sunday After Epiphany, Sunday, February 12, 2023
First Reading: Exodus 19:1-8. God made Israel, a nation of slaves, his special people. He wanted Israel to be the kingdom of priest he had called them to be.
Second Reading: 1 Peter 2:9-12. St. Peter encourages us to be what God has declared us to be: members of a royal priesthood, citizens of a holy nation.
Gospel: Matthew 5:13-20. Jesus declares that his disciples are blessings to his dark, decaying world
Sermon: 1 Peter 2:9-12. Now You Are the People of God.
What does it mean for us to be the people of God? It means that God has made you to be his own. There are some pretty amazing pictures Peter uses as he by inspiration describes this truth. He calls us “a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, the people who are God’s own possessions.”
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Fourth Sunday After Epiphany, Sunday, February 5, 2023
First Reading: Zephaniah 2:3; 3:11-13. The LORD promises that those who are humble, who trust in his strength rather than their own, will not be put to shame.
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:26-31. Paul points the Corinthians to themselves as an example of how God’s strength is made perfect in weakness.
Gospel: Matthew 5:3. Jesus shows us the outcome of a life that is lived trusting in God’s strength. He teaches us what it means to be one of his followers.
Sermon: 1 Corinthians 1:26-31. Boast in the Lord.
- He nullifies our boasts
- He becomes our boast.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Third Sunday After Epiphany, Sunday, January 29, 2023
First Reading: Isaiah 8:19-9:4. Isaiah foretold that the people walking in carkness would see a great light.
Second Reading: 1 John 2:3-11. God’s children found walking in the light of Christ and reflect that light by living in love for God and or one another.
Gospel: Matthew 4:12-23. As Jesus began his preaching ministry in a world filled with unbelief, the prophecy was fulfilled. He is the brilliant light that shines through the darkness.
Sermon: Isaiah 8:19-9:4. The Light Has Dawned
We dare never take for granted Jesus Christ as the light of the world. It has dawned in our hearts and lives, and it has dawned for a world of sinners. May it continue to bring us joy, a joy that will never end.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Second Sunday After Epiphany, Sunday, January 22, 2023
First Reading: Isaiah 49:1-6. The Servant of the Lord would suffer, but in that suffering God would display his splendor to the entire world..
Second Reading: Colossians 2:6-15. The Lamb of God needed to be flesh and blood do that he could be sacrificed. And because that Lamb was the Son of God, it is a sacrifice valuable enough to forgive us all our sins.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 1:29-417. The Lamb of God Comes
- To take away the sin of the world
- .To give what we need to look for
Pastor Tim Patoka
Baptism of Our Lord, Sunday, January 15, 2023
First Reading: Isaiah 42:1-7. In Isaiah, the Lord promises to put his Spirit on the Messiah, empowering the Anointed One to free us from our sins.
Second Reading: Acts 10:34-38
Gospel: Matthew 3:13-17. In the waters of the Jordan, Jesus was anointed with the Holy Spirit and with power.
Sermon Text: Acts 10:34-38. The Anointed One Brings Us Peace.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Epiphany Sunday, January 8, 2023
First Reading: Isaiah 60:1-6
Second Reading: Ephesians 3:2-12
Gospel: Matthew 2:1-12
Sermon Text: Matthew 2:1-12. Epiphany Reveals the Importance of Jesus
Pastor Ron Koehler
New Year’s Day, January 1, 2023
First Reading: Isaiah 63:7-9
Second Reading: Galatians 4:4-7
Gospel: Matthew 2:13-23
Sermon Text: Galatians 4:4-7. God Sent His Son
- To Redeem You
- To Adopt You
Pastor Tim Patoka
Christmas Day, December 25, 2022
Come, Lord Jesus! — Hear God’s Christmas Voice!
First Reading: Isaiah 52:7-10. The prophet foretold that the Lord would dwell among us, doing what was necessary to bring the good news of salvation.
Second Reading: Hebrews 1:1-9. God speaks to us through his Son, Jesus.
Gospel: John 1:1-14. The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Christmas Eve, December 24, 2022
Come, Lord Jesus! — A Savior is Born
Genesis 3:1-7: Mankind’s Fall
Genesis 3:8-15: God’s promise for mankind
Micah 5:2-5. God tells Micah Bethlehem would arise from Bethlehem to shepherd us
Luke 2:1-7: The birth of Jesus in Bethlehem
Luke 2:8-14: The Angels share Jesus’ birth with the shepherds
Luke 2:15-20: Those shepherds visit Jesus
Titus 2:11-14: While we wait for Jesus’ return, we eagerly do good works to glorify God.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Fourth Sunday of Advent, December 18, 2022
Come, Lord Jesus! — As Immanuel
First Reading: Isaiah 7:10-14. The Lord promised that deliverance would come through the gift of Immanuel. And how would we recognize him? He would be born of a virgin.
Second Reading: Romans 1:1-7. After thousands of years of God’s promises, Paul seem them all fulfilled in Christ. Jesus is Immanuel, true God and true man, “God with us.”
Gospel: Matthew 1:18-25. In faith, Jospeh accepted that within the womb of his bring to be was Immanuel—the very Son of God, the promised Savior from sin. “Jesus” means “the LORD saves.”
Sermon: Isaiah 7:10-14. A Special Sign and A Special Savior.
Immanuel is for everyone, not just you and me. For a world full of people in need of saving, Jesus came. He fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecy for us and for everyone. Isaiah was God’s messenger then; now it is our turn to share this very same news with those around us.
It’s easy—invite them to see what you see: Immanuel—God with us!
Pastor Ron Koehler
Third Week of Advent, December 14, 2022
Oh Lord, How Shall I Meet You? With Faith Like Mary
First Reading: Genesis 12:1-7.
Second Reading and Sermon Text: Luke 1:26-38. With Faith Like Mary
Mary knew that God could and would fulfill his promises, so she met him with a simple faith that wholeheartedly believed what the Angel Gabriel told her—-that she would give birth to our Savior.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Third Sunday in Advent, December 11, 2022
Come, Lord Jesus—as Messiah
First Reading: Isaiah 35:1-10. The prophet foretold that the coming of the Messiah would change everything.
Second Reading: James 5:7-11. God encourages us to be patience waiting for the return of the Messiah.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Matthew 11:2-11. Doubt No More!
As we prepare to welcome Jesus as Messiah, may be do so doubt free in who he is (our Savior) and who we are (citizens of the kingdom of heaven.)
Pastor Tim Patoka
Second Wednesday in Advent, December 7, 2022
O Lord, How Shall I Meet You?
First Reading: 1 Samuel 2:1-10
Second Reading and Sermon Text: Luke 1:39-45.
Pastor Ryan Heiman
Second Sunday in Advent, December 4, 2022
Come, Lord Jesus Series
Come, Lord Jesus — as Judge
First Reading: Isaiah 11:1-10. From the family tree of Jesse, another King would come to judge the world with righteousness and establish an everlasting kingdom.
Second Reading: Romans 15:4-13. God’s people face the coming judgement not with fear but with hope.
Gospel: Matthew 3:1-12. To prepare us for the coming judgment, God sent John the Baptist, a voice ini the wilderness, call all to repent.
Sermon Text: Isaiah 11:1-10. A Shoot Springs Up for You.
Jesus brings judgment and peace. We do not need to fear the truth that he will come again as a judge. ‘we can pray boldly and confidently for that day, to “Come, Lord Jesus.”
Pastor Nate Kassulke
First Sunday in Advent, November 27, 2022
Come, Lord Jesus Series
Come, Lord Jesus — as King
First Reading: Isaiah 2:1-5. In the future, when the King comes again, he will transform this world.
Second Reading: Philippians 4:4-7. Our present life is transformed from worry to joy and hope because of the King who came.
Gospel: Matthew 21:1-11. The King of all creation comes to us in all humility, willing to do everything needed to save us from our sins.
Sermon Text: Isaiah 2:1-5. Come to Your Savior King.
Because Jesus first came as our Savior, we now look forwrd to his second coming as our King.
As Isaiah’s prophetic vision shows us, we know what to expect when he comes again: our Savior King assuming his throne on the magnificent mountain of the Lord, streams of people coming to him so they may be instructed in his ways and walk in his illuminated paths, and complete peace when war will be no more.
Pastor Tim Patoka
First Wednesday in Advent, November 30, 2022
Midweek Advent Series: Oh Lord, How Shall I Meet You?
First Reading: 2 Samuel 12:1-13.
Second Reading and Sermon Text: Luke 1:57-79.
Oh Lord, How Shall I Meet You? With Repentance Like Zechariah
At the birth of his son John, Zechariah showed true repentance for not believing God’s messenger with the news he was given 9 months earlier. May words like those be on our hearts and on our lips as we meet Jesus our Lord with repentance like Zechariah.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
First Sunday in Advent, November 27, 2022
Come, Lord Jesus Series
Come, Lord Jesus — as King
First Reading: Isaiah 2:1-5. In the future, when the King comes again, he will transform this world.
Second Reading: Philippians 4:4-7. Our present life is transformed from worry to joy and hope because of the King who came.
Gospel: Matthew 21:1-11. The King of all creation comes to us in all humility, willing to do everything needed to save us from our sins.
Sermon Text: Isaiah 2:1-5. Come to Your Savior King.
Because Jesus first came as our Savior, we now look forwrd to his second coming as our King.
As Isaiah’s prophetic vision shows us, we know what to expect when he comes again: our Savior King assuming his throne on the magnificent mountain of the Lord, streams of people coming to him so they may be instructed in his ways and walk in his illuminated paths, and complete peace when war will be no more.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Thanksgiving Eve Service, November 23, 2022
First Reading: Philippians 4:4-9. Rejoice in the Lord always.
Gospel: Luke 7:36-50. Faith in Jesus saves you.
Sermon Text: Psalm 100. Shout to the LORD with joy for he is good. His mercy endures forever.
Pastor Seth Scheuerlein
Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Pentecost, November 20, 2022
Inn Christ All Things, ALA Sunday
First Reading: Revelation 22:6-13. Jesus will return soon. When he does, the reward he won for mankind will be in his hand.
Psalm 150. Praise ye the Lord!.
Gospel: Luke 12: 35-40. Jesus urges us to remain ready for his return at all times.
Sermon Text: Colossians 1:15-20. Center Your Life on Jesus, Your All-Sufficient Savior.
Pastor Brad Bode, ALA Campus Pastor
Twenty-Third Sunday after Pentecost, November 13, 2022
The Last Day: A Day of Terror for All Those Who Troubled God’s People
First Reading: Malachi 4;1-6. On the Last Day, those who opposed God will be laid low, but all God’s people will be healed.
Second Reading: 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10. God promises that on the Last Day, all those who troubled his hold people will themselves be eternally troubled.
Gospel: Luke 21:5-19 Jesus tells us what the world will be like for believers before the Last Day.
Sermon Text: 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10. God’s Righteous Verdict Will Be Revealed.
For us who are troubled by sin, by unbelief, by persecution, by just the sufferings of this world that is still a sinful place, the waiting for relief is sometimes difficult and painful.
We are waiting for glory, for Jesus return. We are waiting for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to return and to give us a righteous verdict, to declare us not guilty because of his work and so Heaven is our Home, our Eternal Home.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Reformation Sunday, October 30, 2022
LORD, INCREASE OUR FAITH WORSHIP SERIES
Lord, Increase Our Faith Series: The Truth Sets Us Free
First Reading: Jeremiah 31:31-34. The old covenant of law could tel people how to act. It could not create the desire to freely do so. The new covenant of grace transforms people’s hearts, so they freely and joyfully follow God’s will.
Second Reading: Galatians 5:1-6. The Apostle Paul encourages us to stand firm in the freedom that we have in Christ.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 8:31-38. Real Disciples
Real disciples remain in the Word and are set free by Jesus.
May the words of Jesus lead you to treasure his word because it brings you the truth that sets you free from sin and death and brings you to eternal life with him. Amen
Pastor Ron Koehler
The Twentieth Sunday After Pentecost, October 23, 2022
LORD, INCREASE OUR FAITH WORSHIP SERIES
Lord, Increase Our Faith Series: Faith Demonstrated Through Total Dependence
First Reading: Deuteronomy 10: 12-22. Before he leaves them, Moses reminds the Israelites that they are and will always be dependent on God’s grace.
Second Reading: 1 John 2:15-22. The Apostle John encourages us to love and depend on God, not the world.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Luke 18: 18-30. Depend on God for the Impossible
We should depend on God whose Son, Jesus Christ, did the impossible so that the inheritance of eternal life is our guaranteed certainty.
We also depend on God for us to be able to leave all earthly treasures for the kingdom of God.
May we pray to God for this increase of faith so that we totally and always depend on God for the impossible. Amen
Pastor Tim Patoka
The Nineteenth Sunday After Pentecost, October 16, 2022
LORD, INCREASE OUR FAITH WORSHIP SERIES
Lord, Increase Our Faith Series: Faith Demonstrated Through Persistent Prayer
First Reading: Genesis 32:22-30. Jacob literally wrestles with
God in praying for God’s blessing.
Second Reading: 1 John 5:13-15. When we ask God for something that is according to his will, we can be absolutely confident we will receive it.
Gospel: Luke 18: 1-8. Jesus teaches us to be bold and persistent in our prayers..
Sermon: 1 John 5:13-15. Yes, He is Listening.
You and i don’t see what God sees, and we don’t know what God knows, so we pray with the confidence that he is listening because we are his children; we pray with the certainty that he is listening because we ask according to his will; we pray with the assurance that he is listening because he wants to answer us
There is nothing uncertain about this. It is a sure thing. God promises. Amen
Pastor Ron Koehler
The Eighteenth Sunday After Pentecost, October 9, 2022
LORD, INCREASE OUR FAITH WORSHIP SERIES
Lord, Increase Our Faith Series: Faith That Overflows with Gratitude
First Reading: Genesis 8:15-22. Noah expressed his gratitude for God’s preserving his life and the lives of his family as soon as they disembarked from the Ark.
Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 9:10-15. Our gratitude for God’s generosity to us will naturally include a willingness to be generous with others.
Gospel: Luke 17: 11-19. Only one of the ten lepers Jesus cured had the bold faith to throw himself at Jesus’ feet in gratitude.
Sermon: Genesis 8:15-22.
God rescued Noah and his family from the waters of judgement he sent in the flood. It is a true account, one that we should not doubt.
And when all aboard the ark were able to come out, right away Noahgave a generous offering to God. His heart was full of gratitude.
May we take to heart his example. May our faith be overflowing with gratitude for what he has done and for what he has promised.
Lord, in crease our faith
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
The Seventeenth Sunday After Pentecost, October 2, 2022
LORD, INCREASE OUR FAITH WORSHIP SERIES
Lord, Increase Our Faith Series: Faith That Delights i Duty
First Reading: 1 Chronicles 29:1-2, 10-18. King David found it a duty and delight to plan the construction of the LORD’s temple.
Second Reading: 2 Thessalonians 1:1-5, 11-12. Saint Paul thanks God that growing faith of the Thessalonians enabled them not only to grow in love for one another, but also to face persecutions.
Gospel: Luke 17: 1-10. Jesus teaches us about the connection between increased faith and an increased sense of duty to God.
Sermon: 1 Chronicles 29: 1-2, 10-18. Who Am I?
When we ask ourselves the question, “Who am I?” we reply as King David did by saying, “I am but a humble servant who has been abundantly blessed by the Lord’s hand and who looks to him to preserve my upright heart.”
May we remain close to our Savior and daily reflect on everything he has done for us so that we always have a faith that delights in our Christian duty. Amen
Pastor Tim Patoka
The Sixteenth Sunday After Pentecost, September 25, 2022
The Hard Truth Worship Series
Hard Truth Series: What Seems to Help in Life Fails in Death; What Seems to Fail in Life Helps in Death
First Reading: Amos 6:1-7. The Israelites at the time of Amos enjoyed peace and prosperity, but spiritually they were drifting away from the LORD.
Second Reading: Hebrews 13:1-6. Because the Lord is our helper in both life and death, in all aspects of life we strive to live for him.
Gospel and Semon Text: Luke 16:19-31. Life Like Lazarus.
Living like Lazarus means that we take the attitude that he did: patiently suffering when that was his lot in life.
Lazarus listened to Moses and the Prophets and its why he was comforted forever in heaven
The suffering and pain of Lazarus that seemed to ruin this life were worth facing as they led to his eternal life.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
The Fifteenth Sunday After Pentecost, September 18, 2022
The Hard Truth Worship Series
Hard Truth Series: You Can’t Service God and Money
First Reading: Ecclesiastes 5:10-20. King Solomon knew from experience that if you put your trust and faith in money, you will end up disappointed.
Second Reading: 1 Timothy 6:6-10, 17-19). The Apostle Paul teaches that serving money will lead to spiritual destruction, but serving God with our money leads to a fulfilling life.
Gospel: Luke 16:1-15. All money belongs to God; he loans it to us to manage for his glory. Jesus’ parable teaches us to be shrewd in the way we use money to serve him.
Sermon: 1 Timothy 6:6-10, 17-19. Serve God With Money
Be content with your blessing from God
Use your blessings for Godly Enjoyment
Money is not inherently good or evil. It’s a tool to serve a purpose.
As we seek to serve God with money, we start with a content heart because of how richly God has blessed us.
Pastor Tim Patoka
The Fourteenth Sunday After Pentecost, September 11, 2022
The Hard Truth Worship Series
Hard Truth Series: The Found Are Left; the Lost Are Found
First Reading: Hosea 3:1-5. The LORD called the Prophet Hosea to seek his adulterous wife and love her again to show our God is a God who seeks and redeems those who are lost.
Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 2:5-11. Paul encourages the members of the church to lovingly welcome back a member who had been lost in sin.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Luke 15:1-10. Forgiveness for the Lost and Rejoicing Over the Found.
People might be different from us in all sorts of way, but they are people Jesus loves.
We dare not judge them to be less important than we are..
Your prayers to God today should include:
thanks that he found you when you were lost,
asking that he always keep you mindful of his grace,
asking that he would use you to search for and share forgiveness with the lost so that they may be found.
Pastor Ron Koehler
The Thirteenth Sunday After Pentecost, September 3, 2022
The Hard Truth Worship Series
Hard Truth Series: Put Down What You Love; Pick Up What You Loathe
First Reading: Deuteronomy 30:15-20. The Lord set two paths before Israel: one leading to life, the other to death.
Second Reading: Philemon 1, 7-21. An escaped lave returning to his owner is a perfect example of the cost involved in following Jesus.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Luke 14:25-35. Carry Your Very Own Cross.
Jesus teaches us that truly following him will come at a cost. We can’t fight the numerous enemies that struggle against us, either; there are too many. All around us are temptations and traps.
Jesus picked up his cross. He set aside everything that people naturally love, even his own life, in order to win our forgiveness and salvation. He empowers us to respond to his love by willingly carry our own cross to align our values not to what gives us pleasure but to what God’s will is for us.
It is worth it to be a disciple of Jesus, to carry our own cross, because it means being close to him forever
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
The Twelfth Sunday After Pentecost, August 28, 2022
The Hard Truth Worship Series
Hard Truth Series: The Humble Will Be Exalted; the Exalted Will Be Humbled
First Reading: Proverbs 25:6-7. King Solomon provides common sense about humility and pride.
Second Reading: James 2:1-13. Showing favoritism treats others with judgment rather than mercy, putting us at risk of receiving the same from God.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Luke 14:1, 7-14. Those who exalt themselves will be humbled by God.
But Jesus also gives us the promise we need to be freed from pride’s trap.
Our exaltation doesn’t need to be our responsibility because Jesus has already made it his.
It is the humble ones who are humble because of faith in Jesus who will be exalted in the end. They will find honor at the resurrection of the righteous a they are welcomed into the great heavenly banquet and called up to the highest place with our Savior for all eternity.
Pastor Ron Koehler
The Eleventh Sunday After Pentecost, August 21, 2022
The Hard Truth Worship Series
The First Will Be Last; the Last Will Be First
First Reading: Isaiah 66:18-24. The LORD teaches that those who seemed far from his kingdom will be among the first to enter eternal glory.
Second Reading: Hebrews 12:18-24. Being first in God’s eyes has nothing to do with keeping the Law.
Gospel Reading and Sermon Text: Luke 13:22-30. The Door to Heaven.
- Is Narrow for All
- Is Open to All
The doorway into heaven is narrow. Scripture consistently teaches that those individuals who are certain they will be first through the door are more likely to be last, if they make it through at all.
Instead, the one who believes he is the last one God should le into his kingdom and that his only chance of getting in is through the grace of Christ will enter first.
Pastor Tim Patoka
The Tenth Sunday After Pentecost, August 14, 2022
The Hard Truth Worship Series
We Want Peace, but God’s Word Divides
First Reading: Jeremiah 23:23-29. The Word of the LORD divides what is true from what is false
Second Reading: Hebrews 12:1-13. The Hebrews who converted to Christianity faced persecution, often divided from friends and family, even separated from their livelihood. They learned to fix their eyes on Jesus
Gospel Reading: Luke 12-49-53. Jesus knew that his work would cause divisions that would often cut close to home.
Sermon: Hebrews 12:1-13. Let Us Run Our Race
We have God looking out for us. He uses the pain and the challenges in life for our benefit to strengthen us.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
The Ninth Sunday after Pentecost, August 7, 2022
Focused Series
Focused Living Properly Values Heavenly Treasure
First Reading: Genesis 15:1-6. In faith, Abram treasured all of the LORD’s gracious promises.
Second Reading: Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16. The gift of faith allows us to see the true treasure that is found when the architect and builder is God
Gospel: Luke 12:22-34. Jesus assures us we have a Father in heaven who knows what we need better than we do.
Sermon: Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16. Commendable Faith.
- Convinced of God’s Unseen Promises
- Longs for Heaven’s Better Land
As seen with the mention of Abraham in the text, a commendable faith is convinced of God’s promises, even his unseen ones. Because God is faithful to his promises, we can take him at his word and hold him to it 100% of the time
Pastor Tim Patoka
The Eighth Sunday after Pentecost, July 31, 2022
Focused Series
Focused Living Properly Values Earthly Wealth
First Reading: Ecclesiastes 1:1-2, 12-14; 2:18-26. King Solomon, the teacher, learned by experience the limited value of earthly possessions.
Second Reading: Colossians 3:1-11. If life does not consist in the abundance of one’s possessions, then of what does life consist? Paul tells us that in baptism we died and were raised with Christ.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Luke 12:13-21. Which Type of Rich Person Are You?
The one who depends on earthly things? How focused are you on money and things that you have?
The one who depends on God? These are the kind of people who want to change whatever has been wrong in our lives in order to thank God for his incredible eternal generosity, who care about how we treat our worldly wealth because we know that he has made us rich now and forever.
Pastor Ron Koehler
The Seventh Sunday after Pentecost, July 24, 2022
Children’s Summer Bible Campl
Summer Bible Camp Theme: Road Trip, Route 3:16
Devotion #1: God Saves. John 3:16. For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
Devotion #2: God’s Power. Mark 10:27. All things are possible with God.
Devotion #3: God First. Deuteronomy 6:5. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.
Devotion #4: God’s Love. 1 Corinthians 16:14. Do everything in love.
Devotion #5: God’s Promise. Luke 10:20. Rejoice that your names are written in heaven.
Pastor Tim Patoka
The Sixth Sunday after Pentecost, July 17, 2022
Focused Worship Series, Week 2
Focused Worship Seeks Service from Jesus More than Service for Jesus
First Reading: Genesis 18:1-14. With his gracious visit and his gracious word, the Lord serves Sarah with exactly what she needs—a strengthened faith.
Second Reading: Colossians 1:1-14. Paul prays that God would serve the Colossians through the Gospel, rescuing them from the dominion of darkness and empowering them to produce the fruits of good works.
Gospel: Luke 10:38-42. The Two Sides of Spiritual Service.
One sister served Jesus which is important. Spiritually strengthened Christians are properly prepared to serve Jesus.
The other sister listened to Jesus, studying Jesus’ words more seriously, and focused on the most important which is Jesus serving us with his words and his forgiveness.
Pastor Ron Koehler
The Fifth Sunday after Pentecost, July 10, 2022
Focused Worship Series, Week 1
Jesus gives focus to our lives, Week 1: Focused Love Finda a Neighbor Rather than Avoiding One
First Reading: Ruth 1:1-19. The LORD moves a Moabite woman named Ruth to care for her widowed mother -in-law even though it means leaving her people behind.
Second Reading: Galatians 5:1, 13-25. Christ has freed us for a life of humble service and love.
Gospel: Luke 10:25-37. Focus on Your Neighbor.
In Christ, we are free to actively seek out a neighbor in need. Show mercy like the Good Samaritan and “Go and do likewise,”
We don’t do it to earn eternal life: we do it because our neighbor has needs.
We do as Jesus has done for us.
We focus on our neighbor.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
The Fourth Sunday after Pentecost, July 3, 2022
God’s Words Possess God’s Power Worship Series, Week 3
Through the Word, God Provides Ministers to Proclaim His Word
First Reading: Ezekiel 2:9-3:11. Ezekiel was called by God to proclaim the word of the LORD to his fellow exiles, regardless of whether they listened or failed to listen.
Second Reading: 1 Peter: 5:1-4. Ministers are to shepherd God’s flock exactly as Jesus, the Chief Shepherd, would do.
Gospel: Luke 10:1-12, 16-20. Jesus sends out messengers of his Word who were to serve the people as Jesus would have.
Sermon: 1 Peter 5:1-4. The Shepherds God Desires:
- They over see his flock
- They wrestle against temptation
- They anticipate his glory
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
The Third Sunday after Pentecost, June 26, 2022
God’s Words Possess God’s Power Worship Series, Week 3
Through the Word, Jesus Creates Committed Followers
First Reading: 1 Kings 19:19-21. Elisha commits himself completely to the work to which the LORD had called him.
Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 11:21-30. Christ had shown grace to Paul which moved Paul to be committed to Christ.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Luke 9:51-62 Be Fully Committed to Jesus
- Even when the way is rough
- Even when the time is inconvenient
- Even when tempted to look back.
Jesus was determined to go to Jerusalem and he did. He was fully committed to us when he earned our forgiveness and salvation. and in doing so, he earned our love. That is why we do all of this. We love our Savior who first loved us.
Pastor Ron Koehler
The Second Sunday after Pentecost, June 19, 2022
God’s Words Possess God’s Power Worship Series, Week 2
Through the Word, the Lord Crushes Evil
First Reading: Isaiah 43:8-15. The LORD calls us to be his witnesses to the truth that there is no God except for him.
Second Reading: 2 Timothy 1:3-10. Our vocations are different yet God uses all these unique vocations to put us in positions to testify to the Gospel.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Luke 8:26-39. Tell How Much God Has Done for You.
In our own situations and circumstances, with the people whom God has placed in our lives, we can tell how God forgives us, how God loves us, and how Jesus died for our sins.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
The First Sunday after Pentecost, June 12, 2022
Trinity Sunday
God’s Words Possess God’s Power
Through the Word, the Triune God Blesses Us
First Reading: Numbers 6:22-27. The threefold blessing given by God to Moses to use
Second Reading: Romans 5:1-5. The Holy Spirit has given us faith in the Son so that we might know where we stand with our Heavenly Father.
Gospel: John 16:12-15:23-27. God the Father gives all that he has to God the Son who then gives what he has to God the Spirit.
Sermon Text: Numbers 6:22-27. Receive the Triune Lord’s Blessing.
The words of this blessing have been spoken over God’s children for nearly 3,500 years. We are confident to receive our triune Lord’s blessing because he is 3 persons - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Pastor Tim Patoka
The Day of Pentecost, June 5, 2022
The Spirit Marches Victorious Through the Word
First Reading: Genesis 11:1-9. At Babel, sin led to God confusing people’s language. Grace would lead God to share the gospel in many languages on Pentecost.
Second Reading: Acts 2:1-21. On Pentecost, the disciples proclaimed the gospel. Through their words, the Holy Spirit unleashed his power.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 14:23-27. Give Thanks for the Holy Spirit!
The Holy Spirit can give us the strength and the push to share the Gospel when we might typically be too shy or hesitant.
As forgiven disciples of Jesus, we have the Holy Spirit working around our weaknesses to accomplish God’s will.
Pastor Ron Koehler
The Ascension of Our Lord, May 29, 2022
Power Marches Victorious to the Ends of the Earth
First Reading: Acts 1:1-11. Jesus ascends to rule over all things as his Church serves as his witnesses..
Second Reading: Revelation 19:11-16. John sees the ascended Lord as a warrior riding on a white horse fighting against all those who oppose Christ’s gospel and his Church..
Gospel: Luke 24:44-53. Jesus promises to send the disciples power from heaven to carry out his mission..
Sermon Text: Acts 1:1-11: Be a Witness of Our Ascended Savior.
The lessons from Jesus’ life are incredibly important. They are the heart of the gospel, the good news that we all need to hear.
Although we are not witnesses in the same sense that the disciples were who got to see the clous move in to hide Jesus from their sight, but we are witnesses nonetheless because our ascended Savior has seen to it that we have heard their testimony and we have been given faith to believe it.
We, like the disciples, get to await his return knowing that, as forgiven children, our homes are in heaven with him, and like them, we get to share the good news with others.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Sixth Sunday of Easter, May 22, 2022
Joy Marches Victorious Over Self-Glorification
First Reading: Acts 14:8-22. Paul’s joy and his ministry were unaffected by circumstances.
Second Reading: Revelation 21:21-27. The great joy we have now will soon be made perfect and complete.
Gospel: John 16:16-24. Jesus promises that all our grief will be turned to perfect joy.
Sermon Text: Acts 14:8-22. Our Unending Joy.
As you look to your expected years and decades until you reach your home in heaven, don’t be surprised by the many troubles you will have along the way.
But remind yourself that it is Heaven that you are traveling to where you will find unending joy throughout it all.
Pastor Timothy Patoka
Fifth Sunday of Easter, May 15, 2022
Selfless Love Marches Victorious Over Self-Glorification
First Reading: Acts 11:1-18. God teaches St. Peter that God does not show favoritism but rather selfless love to both Jew and Gentile.
Second Reading: 1Corinthians 13:1-13. It is not the spiritual gifts Christians possess, it is the love at work as they put those gifts into practice that defines a Christians.
Gospel: John 13: 31-35. Jesus commands us to show others the same selfless love he has shown to us.
Sermon Text: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. Live in Real Love.
Love lasts into eternity. We will see our loving Savior face-to-face and we will know love in a way that we could never fully appreciate before. Along with faith and hope, love will endure.
Real love serves. Real love endures.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Fourth Sunday of Easter, May 8, 2022
Fulfilled Works March Victorious Over Empty Words
First Reading: Acts 13:15-16, 26-39. St. Paull points out that Jesus’ death and resurrection both fulfilled the Scripture.
Second Reading: Revelation 7:9-17. The Apostle John sees that God’s promise to rescue all believers from the tribulation of this world is not just empty words.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 10:22-30. The Blessings of Being a Sheep.
The voice of Jesus calls out to you and me. It is a place where the voice of the Good Shepherd is heard in the Lord’s Supper of forgiveness. How important it is for us to gather here and listen to his voice!
In a world with so many opinions and false information and fake news and unverified claims, his is the voice you can trust. He said he would do the work of saving you, and he did.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Third Sunday of Easter, May 1, 2022
Sight Marches Victorious Over Blindness
First Reading: Acts 9:1-22. Paul was given faith in the One who had risen from the dead..
Second Reading: Revelation 5:11-14. The Apostle John was given special sight to see the sacrificial Lamb (Jesus) who is worthy of our worship and praise.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 21: 1-14. Breakfast with Jesus.
Take after the disciples by clearly seeing Jesus as the Lord.
Joyfully come to him as you receive his blessings day after day and thank him for all he’s done for you.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Second Sunday of Easter, April 24, 2022
Witness Marches Victorious Over Restraint
First Reading: Acts 5:12, 17-32. Some wanted to restrain the spread of the Gospel, but the Apostles served as witnesses of Christ’s resurrection.
Second Reading: Revelation 1:4-18. Jesus promises to be with his church in the midst of persecution and hardship.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 20:19-31. God’s Written Witness for You.
When you find yourself hesitant to share the peaceful and blessed life we now have through faith, take heart in knowing that the disciples themselves struggled with this, too.
Jesus rose so that all may believe in him and have the peace that comes from believing in him.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Sunrise Easter Service, April 17, 2022
Sunrise Easter Service
First Reading: Exodus 15-1-11. God is our strength and salvation
Second Reading: Colossians 3:1-4. We are raised with Christ.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 20:1-18. Understanding Easter
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Easter Service, April 17, 2022
First Reading: Isaiah 25: 6-9
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:51-57
Gospel: Luke 24:1-12
Sermon: 1 Corinthians 15:51-57. Christ’s Victory Means Your Victory!
We give thanks to God for his amazing gift of his Son, Jesus Christ, not only on Easter morning, but every day as we look forward to our victory, our resurrection to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Evening Lenten Service, April 15, 2022
Good Friday Service
Lenten Series: The Crucial Hours
The Seven Words from the Cross
Forgiveness: Luke 23:32-34
Promise: Luke 23:35-43
Love: John 19:25-27
Anguish: Mark 15:33-34
Fulfillment: John 19:28-29
Completion: John 19:30
Confidence: Luke 23:44-46
Pastor Tim Patoka
Evening Lenten Services, April 14, 2022
Maundy Thursday Service
Lenten Series: The Crucial Hours
“This Is…For You”
Sermon Text: John 22:19-20
Jesus’ Last Supper
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Palm Sunday, April 10, 2022
Let Christ’s Attitude Be in You (Philippians 2:5-11)
Palm Sunday, April 10, 2022
First Reading: Isaiah 42:1-4. Jesus will not snuff out our faith which gives us hope for salvation.
Second Reading: Philippians 2:5-11. Jesus humility encourages us to be the same.
Gospel Reading: Luke 19:28-40. Jesus humbly enters Jerusalem on a lowly donkey.
Sermon: Philippians 2:5-11. Let Christ’s Attitude Be in You.
Be humble to serve others as Jesus took on the nature of a servant and died to save us from our sins.
Let us humbly serve others as Jesus did and share the good news of Jesus’ humble service to us on the cross with those who need to know their Savior.
Be hopeful for God’s exaltation for we know God will exalt us when we finally enter our home in Heaven.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Fifth Wednesday in Lent, March 30, 2022
Wednesday Evening Service
Lenten Series: The Crucial Hours
“They Bound Him”
Sermon Text: John 18:12
Jesus was bound in place of us so we are free—free to serve him and honor and love him.
Pastor Ryan Heiman
Fifth Sunday in Lent, April 3, 2022
Sunday Lenten Series: Crushed
First Reading: Isaiah 43:16-21. The Lord provided Israel with deliverance from other nations.
Second Reading: Philippians 3:4-14. Paul valued Christ over the world.
Gospel Reading: Luke 20:9-19. The cornerstone of the church is Christ
Sermon: Philippians 3:4-14. Prize True Treasure, Not the Trash.
God sent his Son into the world, knowing that the world would reject him
What Paul valued was Christ, whom God exalted in the resurrection.
Through Christ God exalts us as well, regardless of what the world thinks of us.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Fourth Wednesday in Lent, March 30, 2022
Wednesday Evening Service
Lenten Series: The Crucial Hours
“Satan Has Asked to Sift All of Your”
Sermon Text: Luke 22:31-32
Have confidence that Christ will be with us when we are tested and he will keep you close to himself forever
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Fourth Sunday in Lent, March 27, 2022
Sunday Lenten Series: Crushed
First Reading: Isaiah 12:1-6. The Lord forgives and saves!
Second Reading: Romans 8:1-10. We have been set free from sin and death.
Gospel Reading: Luke 15:1-3, 11-32. God responds to us with grace upon grace.
Sermon: The Grace of God in Three Stories. Luke 15:1-3, 11-32
Undeserving “sinners” and the “faithful” few. Verses 1-2
The “Undeserving” son and the “faithful” son. Verses 11-32
Undeserving us and the faithful God.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Third Wednesday in Lent, March 23, 2022
Wednesday Evening Service
Lenten Series: The Crucial Hours
“I Will Keep the Passover”
Sermon Text: Matthew 26:18
Pastor David Parsons, Holy Cross Lutheran Church
Third Sunday in Lent, March 20, 2022
Sunday Lenten Series: Crushed
First Reading: Exodus 3:1-15; The Lord reveals his presence to Moses as flaming bush.
Psalm of the Day: Psalm 85. The glory of the LORD will dwell within our land.
Second Reading and Sermon Text: 1 Corinthians 10:1-13.
Gospel Reading: Luke 13:1-9. We are tempted to think that those experiencing hardship are the ones who need to repent.
Sermon: A Reality Check from Israelite History. 1 Corinthians 10:1-13.
God is faithful; he helps and upholds us; he saves and forgives.
In everything we turn to him and rely on him. That is the reality check that we need.
Without him we are nothing, but with God and as his people we have everything.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Second Wednesday in Lent, March 16, 2022
Wednesday Evening Service
Lenten Series: The Crucial Hours
A Part for the Whole?
Sermon Text: Luke 23:13-16
Pastor Seth Scheuerlein
Second Sunday in Lent, March 13, 2022
Sunday Lenten Series: Crushed
First Reading: Jeremiah 26: 8-15. Even in the face of death, Jeremiah was determined to preach the call to repentance.
Psalm of the Day: Psalm 42..
Second Reading: Philippians 3:17-4:1. The path to heaven ultimately includes crosses.
Gospel Reading: and Sermon Text: Luke 13:31-35. Determined to Go to Jerusalem.
Jesus was determined to g o to Jerusalem on the paths of danger and rejection so he could be our Savior and gather us under his wings.
Let us be determined to remain under his care as we journey to heaven and crush every sinful shortcut that comes up along the way.
Pastor Tim Patoka
First Wednesday in Lent, March 9, 2022
Wednesday Evening Service
Lenten Series: The Crucial Hours
What to Remember When You are Seized with Remorse
Sermon Text: Matthew 27:3-4
Pastor Ron Koehler
First Sunday in Lent, March 6, 2022
Sunday Lenten Series: Crushed
First Reading: 1 Samuel 17. David’s victory over Goliath is as much a spiritual vistory as a military one, for it teaches us the battle is the Lord’s.
Psalm of the Day: Psalm 91. My dwelling place is God Most High; my refuge and my fortress.
Second Reading: Hebrews 4:14-16. Jesus understands how hard life is because he faced every temptation we have faced, and more.
Gospel Reading: Luke 4:1-13. Jesus overcomes Satan’s temptations in the wilderness, winning the victory for us.
Sermon. God to Jesus When Tempted. Hebrews 4:14-16.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Ash Wednesday, March 2, 2022
Wednesday Evening Service
Lenten Series: The Crucial Hours
The Semblance of Legality.
Sermon Text: Luke 22:66
Because Jesus lived both in perfect legality and in perfect love and that he did it for you in in your place, we don’t need to worry about striving for a semblance of legality. We already have a true holiness through Jesus.
Therefore, we can strive for something higher. We can strive for an obedience that follows God’s commands—-from the heart.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Last Sunday After Epiphany, February 27, 2022
The Transfiguration of Jesus
Epiphany Series: Uncovered
Uncovered Glory: When God’s Glory is most hidden, it is most on display.
First Reading: Exodus 34:29-35. The glory of God was reflected in the law which God established through Moses.
Psalm 2: Great are the works of the LORD.
Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 3:7-18. The glory of the New Covenant of grace surpasses the glory of the Old Covenant of the Law.
Gospel Reading: Luke 9:18-26. The glory of God is hidden in Christ but shines through on the Mount of Transfiguration.
Sermon Text: Luke 10:25-37. Help for the Hurting.
Pastor James Mattek
Christian Family Solutions
Seventh Sunday After Epiphany, February 20, 2022
Epiphany Series: Uncovered
Uncovered Reactions: Love your enemies; overcome evil with good
First Reading: Genesis 45:3-15. Jesus asks us to befriend our enemies, to love those who hate us, and to repay evil with good.
Psalm 103/ The Lord is Kind and Merciful..
Second Reading: Romans 12:14-21. Believers are encouraged to operate on the principles of grace, forgiveness, and humility.
Gospel Reading: Luke 6-27-38. Jesus calls us to disregard what people deserve. Instead, we are to show the same grace that God has shown to us.
Sermon Text: Genesis 45:3-15. See Where the Right Education/Educator Gets You.
Pastor Joel Naumann, Eau Claire, Wisconsin
Sixth Sunday After Epiphany, February 13, 2022
Epiphany Series: Uncovered
Uncovered Blessings: Blessings are cursed; curses are blessed
First Reading: Jeremiah 17: 5-8. The one who is blessed is the one who has been given the gift of faith, whose trust is in the Lord .
Psalm 1. How truly blessed are they who shun the sinners’ ways..
Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 12:7-10. Paul came to see his infirmity as a blessing as it forced him to rely on God’s strength.
Gospel Reading and Sermon Text: Luke 6:17-26. Jesus Defines Blessings Differently.
Jesus teaches that the good things we seek are found in places we would least expect.
The things that feel to us like curses are really blessings when they bring us closer to our Savior and when they remind us to rely on his strength.
And the things that often come to the top of our list when we think about blessings—-those things can actually draw us away from him and his love and salvation. We are so easily distracted by the things of this world.
Jesus wants us to be truly blessed; let us rejoice in his love.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Fifth Sunday After Epiphany, February 6, 2022
Epiphany Series: Uncovered
Uncovered Messengers: The least qualified are the first sent
First Reading: Isaiah 6:1-8. Isaiah admitted he was guilty of sin; in his grace, the Lord not only takes Isaiah’s sin away, but also sends him out as a messenger of grace.
Psalm 67: Oh God, show us your mercy and bless us with your grace.
Second Reading: Romans 10:12-17. God’s plan is to send saved sinners to proclaim salvation to other sinners.
Gospel Reading: Luke 5:1-11. Jesus tales simple, self-admittedly sinful fisherman and removes their fears, calls them to follow, and makes them fishers of men.
Sermon Text: Isaiah 6:1-8. Are You Qualified to Share the Gospel?
Sin says ‘no’ but God says, “yes.” Like Isaiah, like the disciples, you are qualified because God has made you so. You are because God has forgiven your sins. You are because God has called you to the job. You are really just the messenger; you can’t make the message more persuasive or powerful; that is the work of the Gospel. It is the Holy Spirit who changes hearts.
Amen
Pastor Ron Koehler
4th Sunday after Epiphany, January 30, 2022
Epiphany Series: Uncovered
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany, January 30, 2022
First Reading: Jeremiah 4:1-10. God chose to give Jeremiah a narrow agenda: to share God’s Word with the people of Judah, regardless of what they wanted to hear.
Psalm 71: In you, LORD, I have taken refuge.
Second Reading: 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5. A temptation for the Lord’s messengers is to say what ears want to hear.
Gospel: Luke 4:38-44. After preaching and doing miracles in the area around Capernaum, the people wanted Jesus to stay there permanently, but he had a different agenda: to proclaim the gospel to many others.
Sermon: 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5. The Christian’s Agenda: Make Sinners Wise for Salvation.
Our Uncovered Worship series today looks at “agenda uncovered.” Even though Jesus could have attracted crowds and he often did by healing and performing miracles, he focused on the main purpose of his ministry which is sharing the good news. And he wants us to share the good news, too.
Amen
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
3rd Sunday after Epiphany, January 23, 2022
Epiphany Series: Uncovered
Third Sunday after Epiphany
First Reading: Isaiah 61:1-6. The Lord allowed the Israelites to be conquered, but not forever.
Psalm of the Day, Psalm 146: The LORD is worthy of praise.
Second Reading:: Acts 4:23-31. The Apostles prayed for boldness to proclaim the Gospel
Gospel Reading: Luke 4:16-30. Jesus is rejected by his hometown when he revealed himself as the Annointed.
Sermon: Isaiah 61:1-6. The Annointed One Brings Good News.
Consider the Old Testament people who were exiled to Babylon. The people faced that fate because they had rejected God. And while some listened to amazing promises of salvation those who did were always a small remnant.
Many years later, Jesus used these promises to introduce himself to his hometown synagogue but in one of the saddest reactions, they not only left the good news behind, they tried to toss him off a cliff.
This needs to be a warning for us that the news in the verses can be taken for granted and dismissed when what we see doesn’t meet our expectations. The same sinful heart that has led so many to reject the good news resides in us.
Listen to the good news. Hold on to it. And share it with others.
Amen
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
2nd Sunday after Epiphany, January 16, 2022
Epiphany Series: Uncovered
Second Sunday after Epiphany
First Reading: Isaiah 62:1-5. The prophet Isaiah pictured the Church’s relationship with the Lord as an infinitely happy marriage.
Psalm of the Day, Psalm 145: The LORD is worthy of praise.
Second Reading: Ephesians 3:14-21. There is no limit of love that our God our Savior has for us.
Gospel Reading and Sermon Text. John 2:1-11
It is possible for us to have a heavenly focus even while enjoying God’s gifts to us in this life.
We pray that Jesus’ presence and miracle at the wedding in Cana, will help us to remember that our enjoyment of life can be pleasing to God, who gives us all things.
We pray also that we are able to set aside the idea that a life of following God is boring or somehow less than what life without Jesus can offer.
Amen
Pastor Ron Koehler
1st Sunday after Epiphany, January 9, 2022
Epiphany Series: Uncovered
First Sunday after Epiphany
Anointing Uncovered: What the eye sees differs from what God decrees.
First Reading: 1 Samuel 16:1-13. To the eyes of the average Israelite, the young boy David was not the best choice to be king, yet he was God’s choice: a man after God’s heart.
Psalm of the Day, Psalm 2: David describes the futile resistance of the world rulers to the kingdom of the Messiah.
Second Reading: Titus 3:4-7. Baptism is a second birth that bestows salvation and the Spirit.
Gospel Reading and Sermon Text. Luke 3:15-17, 21, 22.
God uncovers to us who the Christ is, the one anointed to save sinners from their sins. That person is Jesus alone as God decreed from long ago and publicly declared his baptism with his Triune presence.
There need be no question about who to look to for our Savior, for it is Jesus alone who is our Promised Savior.
Who is the Christ? It is Jesus my Savior.
Amen
Pastor Tim Patoka
The Epiphany of Our Lord, January 2, 2022
A Light for All People
First Sunday in Epiphany
First Reading: 1 Kings 10:1-9. The Queen of Sheba learns of God’s love for all people from King Solomon.
Second Reading and Sermon Text: Acts 13:46-49. God’s desire for salvation for the whole world for all time.
Gospel Reading. Matthew 2:1-12. God used a special light to lead foreigners to the Light of the World.
Sermon: Acts 13:46-49. A Light for All People.
We have a gracious God. We have spent weeks preparing for the most special child ever born. He is a Light for all people and that means that we get to partner with Paul and Barnabas in sharing that light with anyone and everyone. And we get to offer up treasures of our time and talents and money like the wise men did because we, too, have seen the light of the world who has brought salvation to us.
Amen
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2021
New Year’s Eve Service: A Time for Everything
Psalm 90: We live, O Lord, within your grace; you are true God eternally
First Reading: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8. For everything, there is an appointed time.
Second Reading and Sermon Text: Hebrews 13:5-8, 14. God has said he will never leave you.
Gospel Reading. Matthew 25:1-13. Keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour the Lord will come.
Sermon: Hebrews 13: 5-8, 14. The Lord’s Help in Every Changing Time.
The Lord’s help is constant and unchanging. He will do what He said He will do even if we don’t see it in our lifetime. We can face our future unafraid because of His unchanging word.
We can be content with what God has given us, because what His greatest gift to us is for us to share the same outcome as all believers of all time who have gone ahead of us into eternal life with Him in heaven.
We can look forward to what is coming in our future.
Pastor Tim Patoka
1st Sunday after Christmas, December 26, 2021
What Child is This? Our Substitute and Sacrifice
First Reading: Isaiah 50:4-9. While we have not always trusted God, Jesus demonstrated perfect obedience and trust, even when his Father asked him to be the sacrifice for our sin.
Second Reading and Sermon Text: Hebrews 2:10-18. Through his suffering and sacrifice, Jesus has made us holy. He now calls us his brothers and sisters.
Gospel Reading. Luke 2:41-52. Even as a boy, Jesus demonstrated obedience to the heavenly Father and respect for God’s holy Word.
Sermon: Hebrews 2:10-18. Freed By Our Brother and High Priest.
It is by being our brother that Jesus is our substitute. His perfect life, unjust sufferings and innocent death stand in for us. He doesn’t try to hide the fact that he is our brother.
Jesus work as our high priest frees us from the fear of death because we know what will be ours as Christians afterwards—-life in heaven with our loving Father, our brother Jesus, and every other Christian who has and is yet to come.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Christmas Day, December 25, 2021
First Reading and Meditation: Exodus 33:18-23, 34:5-7. God in the Flesh: The Overpowering Glory of God.
Second Reading and Meditation: Romans 8:31-32. God in the Flesh: The Gracious Gifts of God in Christ..
Gospel Reading and Meditation. John 1:1-18. God in the Flesh: The Gift Beneath the Wrapping.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Christmas Eve, December 24, 2021
First Lesson: Genesis 3:8-15. The Seed of the Woman.
Second Lesson: Isaiah 9:2-7. A Child is born to us who walk in Darkness. He will be named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Third Lesson: Psalm 96. Sing to the Lord a new song.
Fourth Lesson: 1 John 4:9-14. God’s Only-Begotten Son.
Fifth Lesson: Luke 2:1-7. The Son of Mary.
Sixth Lesson and Devotion: Luke 2:8-14. A Savior Born for You.
Over 2,000 years ago a child was born for you because you needed saving.
It’s hard to imagine as we see him in the manger that eventually we will see him on the cross. And it’s hard to imagine as we see him on the cross that we will one day see him in his glory.
There is no substitute for this good news. Glory to God in the highest.
Amen
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
4th Sunday of Advent, December 19, 2021
First Lesson: Micah 5:2-5. The humble, tiny town of Bethlehem would be exalted with the birth of our Savior who would bring spiritual peace to the ends of the earth.
Psalm 85. LORD, in your mercy heart my prayers.
Second Reading. Hebrews 10:5-10. We cannot do enough good works or offer enough sacrifices to raise ourselves up to God, so the Son of God obeyed the law for us and by his sacrifice has made us holy.
Gospel and Sermon Text. Luke 1:39-55. When the Lord Comes Near, He Lifts Up the Humbled.
The Lord lifts up the humbled from four particular angles: It’s in his promise, his purpose, his present, and his pledge.
God promised to lift up his humbled world through the offspring of a woman. In the womb of the Virgin Mary, God was coming near to keep that promise.
It was God’s purpose that his Son, Jesus, would come to save the whole world and for all time from our sin and sinfulness.
At the present time, he is coming near to his people in Word and sacrament.
God’s pledge: The Jesus who once dwelled in the womb of a virgin in order to accomplish your salvation—-he’s going to come back.
He will raise up, lift up, all who have been humbled by their sin to look to him for grace and mercy.
He will lift you up never to be humbled by sin or pain or sorrow ever again.
Amen
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Angelic Announcement to Joseph: God Is With Us
Midweek Advent 3, Wednesday, December 15, 2021
First Lesson: Isaiah 7:10-17. Though King Ahaz refused to ask for a sign when God promised to give one, God still graciously spoke of the coming Savior. The miraculous sign would be a virgin giving birth to a child called Immanuel, which means “God with us.”.
The Gospel and Sermon Text: Matthew 1:18-25. The Announcement to Joseph.
The angel’s announcement to Joseph was as simple as it was strange to hear. Mary would have a baby, but he would be God’s son—-not Joseph’s or another man’s. He would be the One the prophets foretold—the Messiah who would save the people from their sins.
Advent calls us to look ahead with expectation for Christ’s return, when the voice of an angel will be heard again, as it announces that we will then be with God.
May we eagerly await that day!
Amen
Pastor Ron Koehler
When the Lord Comes Near, He Humbles His Enemies
3rd Sunday of Advent, December 12, 2021
First Lesson: Zephaniah 3:14-17. The prophet Zephaniah urges us to rejoice that the Lord has taken away our punishment.
Psalm 130: Out of the depths I cry to you, Lord…
Second Reading and Sermon. Philippians 4:4-7. Rejoice in the Lord always.
Gospel. Luke 3:7-18. John the Baptist urges those who came to hear him to repentance and that there is someone else coming who will baptize us with the Holy Spirit.
Sermon. Philippians 4:4-7. The Lord Will Come and Humble His Enemies.
The Lord’s coming brings Christians God’s unsurpassable peace. Because of our faith in what Jesus did for us when he came to this world, we have nothing to fear when he comes back to humble his enemies.
And because of what he has done for us, we nothing to fear when he comes again.
As we wait for that day, we fill our actions and attitudes with joy, gentleness, and thanksgiving. When we face hardships or injustices, we look forward to what the Lord will do when he comes back and we can rejoice, be gentle, and be thankful in our requests to God.
Amen
Pastor Tim Patoka
Angelic Announcements: God Does the Impossible
Midweek Advent 2, Wednesday, December 8, 2021
First Lesson: Genesis 18:10-15. Sarah considered God’s promise to give her and Abraham a son in their old age to be impossible. God reminded her and Abraham that for him nothing is impossible.
The Gospel and Sermon Text: Luke 1:26-38.. The Announcement to Mary.
When the angel told Mary about her special child, Jesus, he said that Jesus would do what seems impossible: He would sit on the throne of his ancestor David forever. He would have an endless kingdom, but to not be afraid.
Jesus did not come to battle against us as his enemies, He came to battle against our enemies and to make us His people.
He came to live for us, to live in our place and to set right all we have done wrong. He came to die for us and to make us His people forever.
Amen
Pastor Nate Kassulke
Advent 2 Sunday, December 5, 2021
When the Lord Comes Near, He Humbles His People (Luke 3:1-6)
Readings for Advent 2 Sunday, December 5, 2021
First Reading: Malachi 3:1-7. The Prophet Malachi sent a message from God to his people that someone would come to prepare us for the coming of the Lord Jesus.
Psalm 66. Let all the earth cry out with joy to the Lord.
Second Reading.: Philippians 1:3-11. The Apostle Paul issued prayers that the Christians in Philippi would endure to the Last Day.
The Gospel and Sermon Text: Luke 3:1-6.
Repentance is more than saying you are sorry to God. Repentance is:
- to acknowledge that what I have done is considered sinful to God.
- that I am sorry that I have offended God,
- that I ask God to forgive me in Jesus and trust that he does,
- and that I intend not to sin like this again because I want to please my Savior.
May we need the wake-up call of John the Baptist, to find humility—-the kind that repents before Christ, that realizes how precious his Word and Sacrament are, that looks to him for forgiveness and trusts him totally for eternal life.
Amen
Pastor Ron Koehler
Midweek Advent Service, Wednesday, December 1, 2021
Angelic Announcements: God Prepares His People (Luke 1:5-20)
As we hear of God’s impossible blessings of forgiveness, life, and salvation for sinners like ourselves, let us listen to what God has done for us with believing ears.
Pastor Tim Patoka
First Sunday of Advent, Sunday November 28, 2021
When the Lord Comes Near, He Humbles Himself
When Jesus returns, he will come in all his power and glory to be a judge.
And you will be ready for him because he humbled himself for you and because God led you to humbly receive his forgivenss
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Thanksgiving Eve Service, Wednesday, November 24, 2021
God Meets Our Needs Throughout the Year
And my God will fully supply your every need, according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus
Philippians 4:19
Pastor Seth Scheuerlein
Season of End Times, Sunday, November 21, 2021
Christ the King Sunday
Readings for this Service: Season of End Times, #4
First Lesson: Daniel 7:13-14. The Prophet Daniel sees a vision of Jesus ruling as our eternal King.
Second Lesson and Sermon Text: Revelation 1:4-8. Of all the ways in which Christ could have shown his glory, he picked this one: to redeem us by his suffering and death so that we should live with him for all eternity.
Verse of the Day: Revelation 22:13. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.
Gospel: John 18:33-37. Pilate was confused when he heard that Jesus was a king. Jesus IS a king. In fact his kingdom is not of this world and his citizens are believers who listen to him.
The Sermon: Rejoice! Christ the King Is Coming! Revelation 1:4-8.
The verses tell us what we’ll see happening on the Last Day, but they also teach us some truths that are in effect now. One of those truths is how Jesus’ reign as Christ the King is timeless.
His reign is a saving reign that is timeless and almighty.
Look to Jesus as the Christ who freed you from your sins by the blood he shed on the cross.
Look to Jesus as the King who chiefly uses his almighty power to save you from your sins and to assure you of it.
Make good use of your time of grace to bring others to faith so that they too may rejoice with you whe Christ our King finally comes.
Amen
Pastor Tim Patoka
Season of End Times, Sunday, November 14, 2021
Saints Triumphant
Readings for this Service: Season of End Times, #3
First Lesson: and Sermon Text: Daniel 12:1-3. The God who protected his elect in this life will certainly not abandon them in death and on Judgment Day.
Second Lesson: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. The Apostle Paul addresses what happens on the Last Day for those who believe that Jesus died and rose again.
Verse of the Day: Revelation 7:15. They are in front of the throne of God, and they serve him day and night in his temple..
Gospel: Mark 13:24-27. Jesus explains there will be distressing time in the last days..
The Sermon: The Shared Experience of the Saints: Daniel 12:1-3.
Distress, deliverance, and delight will be shared by those living in the end times.
Hell is real; it doesn’t matter whether people believe it or not. Because you trust in Christ for forgiveness and salvation, you are one of God’s holy ones. You can live eternally with him in heaven.
Look forward to that last day and live for that day when we will share that experience with each other and all the saints forever.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Season of End Times, Sunday, November 7, 2021
Last Judgment
Readings for this Service: Season of End Times, #2
First Lesson: Malachi 4:1-3. God’s Old Testament prophet speaks of terror for the wicked and joy for believers on the Last Day.
Second Lesson and Sermon Text: Hebrews 9:24-28. Christ will appear a second time. The key to our certainty of heaven is in the hands of our Great High Priest, Jesus.
Verse of the Day: Matthew 24:42. Be alert, because you do not know on what day your Lord is coming.
Gospel: John 5:19-30.. Jesus assures us that we are ready for the final judgement when we hear the Lord speak and believe.
The Sermon: Christ Will Appear a Second Time, Hebrews 9:24-28.
For those who believe in Jesus as their Savior from sin, the end of the world is not a scary prospect. It is exactly what we wait for and exactly what we hope for.
We don’t know when that day will come. We don’t know when our last day will come. What we do know is that Jesus is our perfect Savior, our great high priest. He has taken away our sins, and he will return as judge. And that is a reason to rejoice in him.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Season of End Times, Sunday, October 31, 2021
Reformation Sunday
Readings for this Service: Season of End Times, #1
First Lesson: Daniel 3:16-28
Second Lesson: Revelation 14:6-7.
Verse of the Day: John 8:31-32. If you remain in my word, you are really my disciples. You will also know the truth, and the truth will set you free..
Gospel and Sermon Text: Mark 13:5-11. Faithful to the Word.
The signs of the End continually tempt us.
God’s Gospel comforts us to the End.
Pastor Tim Patoka
He Has Done All Things Well: Serving Others, Sunday, October 24, 2021
22st Sunday after Pentecost
Readings for this Service: He Has Done All Things Well, #7
First Lesson: 2 Chronicles 26:26-23. King Uzziah overstepped with regard to what God had called him to do with disastrous results.
Second Lesson: 1 Corinthians 9:7-12, 19-23. In faith and love for God, Paul did not claim his rights as an apostle as he served God’s people.
Verse of the Day: Ephesians 2:10. For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Mark 10:35-45. Serving Others.
A change of heart and loving service to others are proof of a faith in the One who loved us with all his heart and who served sinners like us all his life. Jesus promises us with a life in heaven with him in heaven when that day comes for us.
May Jesus’ service to you give you the desire to serve others.
May God help you to see the opportunities to serve others.
May the Holy Spirit move you to serve others!
Amen.
Pastor Ron Koehler
He Has Done All Things Well: Upholding God’s Plan for Families, Sunday, October 17, 2021
21st Sunday after Pentecost
Readings for this Service: He Has Done All Things Well, #6
First Lesson: 2 Kings 5:14-27. Na’aman’s leprosy was cured when he followed Elisha’s directions from God. Elisha’s servant, however, fell into greed and suffered the consequences.
Second Lesson: Hebrews 13:1-6. We can be content because God is with us and takes care of us.
Verse of the Day: Isaiah 25:9. This is the LORD! We waited for him. Let us be glad and rejoice in his salvation!.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Mark 10:17-27. Overcoming Greed.
What does it mean to be rich? When we discuss earthly wealth, there could be some disagreement. How much is enough? How much must we have to be considered rich?
But real riches are not the earthly ones. Real riches are to have Jesus, to know and love God, and through what he has done to have eternal life as your very own. That is what makes us truly rich,: that Jesus was rich toward us.
Jesus overcame greed by teaching us the truth and by doing the impossible. Let us praise him with our lips and through our lives. We have true riches, now and forever.
Amen.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
He Has Done All Things Well: Upholding God’s Plan for Families, Sunday, October 10, 2021
20th Sunday after Pentecost
Readings for this Service: He Has Done All Things Well, #5
First Lesson: Genesis 2:18-24. In this Scripture reading, we learn how God’s plans for families began.
Second Lesson: Ephesians 5:22-6:4. God’s plans for families reveals how husbands and wives are to act toward each other in the same way that Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.
Verse of the Day: Hebrews 2:12. I will declare your name to my brothers. Within the congregation I will sing your praise.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Mark 10:2-16. Joined for Life and Receiving God’s Kingdom.
When it comes to husbands and wives, God intended them to be joined together for life until God separates them by death.
When it comes to children, God is primarily concerned about their receiving God’s kingdom through faith and how parents fit into the equation.
May the Lord help us know his plan for families and uphold it always.
Amen.
Pastor Tim Patoka
He Has Done All Things Well: Overcoming Sinful Flesh, Sunday, October 3, 2021
18th Sunday after Pentecost
Readings for this Service: He Has Done All Things Well, #4
First Lesson: Numbers 11:16, 24-29. People of all generations struggle to overcome their sinful thoughts.
Second Lesson: Philippians 1:12-18. Paul rejoices that Christ is proclaimed by many, not just by him.
Verse of the Day: Philippians 2:10-11. At the name of Jesus, every knee will bow, and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Mark 9:38-50.
In the Gospel for today, we hear Jesus, the one who does everything well, giving instruction and encouragement to his disciples.
Try as we might, we will never completely rid ourselves and our lives of sin, but we are to make every attempt to do so. We trust that Jesus has made up for our imperfect lives with his perfect life and by giving that life for us on the cross.
Faith in Jesus is how the sinful flesh is completely conquered and how every disciple finds their way into heaven.
Amen.
Pastor Ron Koehler
He Has Done All Things Well: Correcting False Ambitions, Sunday, September 26, 2021
18th Sunday after Pentecost
Readings for this Service: He Has Done All Things Well, #3
First Lesson: Numbers 12;1-15. Here we see how God corrects Aaron and Miriam so they can serve alongside Moses.
Second Lesson: James 3:13-18. Rather than harbor earthly ambitions, practice godly virtues.
Verse of the Day: 2 Corinthians 12:9. My grace is sufficient for you, because my power is made perfect in weakness.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Mark 9:30-37.
To be the servant of all highlights the primary role a person has in meeting the needs of another and assisting them in a way that is feasible and wise.
As the servant of all, Jesus literally gave of himself to help and assist everyone else. And he did this on purpose. Jesus knew about his coming betrayal, death, and resurrection. He could have prevented it all from happening before it even began.
But he chose to go through with it. Jesus’ resurrection assures us that our sins have been paid for in full.
Because Jesus has humbly served us in this way, we therefore humbly serve all in Jesus’ name.
Amen.
Pastor Tim Patoka
He Has Done All Things Well: Taking Up the Cross, Sunday, September 19, 2021
Readings for this Service: He Has Done All Things Well, #2
First Lesson: Jeremiah 38:1-13. God had Jeremiah warn the people of the coming judgment of God, yet this faithful servant received abuse and persecution.
Second Lesson: 1 Peter 4:12-19. Peter minds us that the suffering we do is for our Savior’s glory.
Verse of the Day: Romans 15:4. Indeed, whatever was written in the past was written for our instruction, so that, through patient endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures, we would have hope.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Mark 8:27-35.
When we consider what we are to do as Christ’s followers, we need to begin with what Jesus has done for us: instead of remaining in heaven, he selflessly gave that us for us and he lived perfectly for us.
And then he died—on a cross—for us—so that our sins would be paid for. It is out of thankfulness for those things he did to save us that we follow him.
Although we often fail at it, we find forgiveness for those failures and we find help from the Holy Spirit to put us back on track so that we live a Christian life in thanks to Jesus.
Amen.
Pastor Ron Koehler
He Has Done All Things Well: Healing Our Suffering, Sunday, September 12, 2021
Readings for this Service: He Has Done All Things Well, #1
First Lesson: Isaiah 35:4-7. When we suffer, we look to the Lord who will strengthen us.
Second Lesson: Acts 3:1-10. We are encouraged to tell our troubles to the Lord.
Verse of the Day: Philippians 4:4. Rejoice in the Lord always! I will say it again: rejoice!
Gospel and Sermon Text: Mark 7:31-37. The Incidental Ephphatha
The account of Jesus’ healing of a deaf and mute man, saying “Ephphatha! Be opened!"
Jesus came to our world to take away our sins, not to relieve us of temporary hardships. Life is not easy, but it doesn’t mean that God has abandoned us in our sufferings. He sends blessings our way continually.
It’s in these that Jesus shows us how he cares for both our bodies and our souls and will protect and preserve us as he has promised.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Summer Worship Series, Week 14: September 5, 2021, Peaceful Animals
Let evertyhing that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Psalm 150:6
Readings for Summer Worship Series #14
First Lesson and Sermon Text: Isaiah 11:6-10
Second Lesson: Revelation 7:9-17. This is St. John’s vision of the white robed people coming to worship the Lord.
Verse of the Day: John 20:31. These words are written that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Alleluia.
Gospel: John 14:1-6. Jesus instructs us to find peace in Him.
Sermon: Isaiah 11:6-10. Peaceful Animals.
There is going to come a time when there will be no more hurt and no destruction. There will be no sin and pain and frustration and anger and tears. It all goes away. It will happen on the LORD’s holy mountain, heaven, the high and holy place where he dwells. On the day of our Lord’s return, all of God’s people will be released from a restless world full of danger and upheaval and they will be given full and lasting peace.
We will see Jesus and we will find peace and rest and it will be glorious. Amen.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Summer Worship Series, Week 13: August 22, 2021, Dragon
Let evertyhing that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Psalm 150:6
Readings for Summer Worship Series #13
First Lesson: Isaiah 26:20-27:9. The LORD will protect his people!
Psalm 18: The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer.
Second Lesson and Sermon Text: Revelation 12:1-18. The dragon of John’s vision was the Devil trying to defeat God’s plans and purposes. Jesus has won the victory over him and share that victory with his people.
Verse of the Day: John 20:31. These words are written that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Alleluia.
Gospel: Luke 4:1-13. The Devil temps Jesus 3 times to no avail.
Sermon: Revelation 12:1-18. Victorious Over the Deadly Dragon.
The visions in Revelation can be summarized like this—-God has won, Satan has lost, and we, God’s children through fait, share in that victory now and forever.
So when you feel the heat of the Devil’s anger burning against you or your conscience is burdened from his truthful accusations, remember the big picture—God has won, Satan has lost, and that’s a fact.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Summer Worship Series, August 22, 2021 Let evertyhing that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Psalm 150:6
Readings for Summer Worship Series #12
First Lesson: Ezekiel 18:19-23, 30-32: God holds everyone accountable and wants us to repent.
Psalm 34: Blessed are they who take refuge in God.
Second Lesson: 2 Corinthians 7:8-13: Repentance seems painful but God uses it for our good.
Verse of the Day: John 20:31. These words are written that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Alleluia.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Matthew 26:69-75: Rooster.
God wants us to be filled with sorrow for the sins we have committed, not because he wants us to suffer, but because he wants us to turn to him.
God wants us to learn the lesson Peter did: that we cannot depend on ourselves; we have to depend on Jesus.
God wants us to repent and believe that he is our Savior and to enjoy the eternal comfort of salvation.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Summer Worship Series, August 15, 2021 Let evertyhing that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Psalm 150:6
Readings for Summer Worship Series #11
First Lesson: Jeremiah 17:5-8. God compares anyone who trust in the LORD to a healthy tree planted by water.
Second Lesson: Philippians 4:4-9. Let your requests be made known to God who will guard and give you peace.
Verse of the Day: John 20:31. These words are written that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Alleluia.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Matthew 6:25-34. Free Like the Bird.
God tells us not to worry as He will take care of our needs, and to seek FIRST the kingdom of God and his righteousness.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Summer Worship Series, August 8, 2021 Let evertyhing that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Psalm 150:6
Readings for Summer Worship Series #10
First Lesson and Sermon Text: Proverbs 6:6-11
Psalm: 119B. Preserve my life in God’s righteousness
Second Lesson: 2 Thessalonians 3:6-12. Paul served at God’s example of working and not being idle.
Verse of the Day: John 20:31. These words are written that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Alleluia.
Gospel: Matthew 25:24-30. A parable of Jesus: The servant did nothing with what was given to him stresses that we use the gifts God gives to us to show glory to God.
Sermon: Proverbs 6:6-11. Lean a Laziness Lesson from this Ant.
Heavenly riches await the Christian who is faithful in using the talents and opportunities the Lord has given! They make the effort, but are not forgiven and saved by their effort.
Instead, they look to Jesus and repent when they have not followed the commands of God and the lesson of the industrious ant.
They find forgiveness in Christ who worked for them, and in Christ, they will one day find eternal rest from their work in the presence of the Lord.
Amen
Pastor Ron Koehler
Summer Worship Series, August 1, 2021 Let evertyhing that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Psalm 150:6
Readings for Summer Worship Series #9
First Lesson: 2 Kings 2:19-25
Second Lesson: 1 Timothy 5:17-20. In his letter to Timothy, Paul describes how congregations should honor those who bring the Gospel to them
Verse of the Day: John 20:31. These words are written that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Alleluia.
Gospel: John 3:22-30. As Jesus was beginning his ministry, John the Baptist pointed to Jesus as the Christ.
Sermon: 2 Kings 2:19-25. Two Bears.
The account of a group of young men making fun of the Lord’s prophet Elisha being punished by the mauling two bears inflicted brings home the point that God is serious about his Word and so he does not tolerate idolatry. How many people would have been harmed in incredible and eternal ways if God had allowed his prophet to be despised and mocked?
The main message of the Bible is the unbelievable story of an innocent man being whipped, beaten, and finally put to death on a cross which he did because he loves you and me and a world of sinful people. Jesus died to give us life and he lives again so that we will never die.
In addition, God is serious about those he calls to share his Word and he wants his messengers respected. That is the lesson we learn from two bears.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Summer Worship Series, July 25, 2021 Let evertyhing that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Psalm 150:6
Readings for Summer Worship Series #8
First Lesson: Daniel 6:1-24.
Second Lesson: Ephesians 6:10-17.
Verse of the Day: John 20:31. These words are written that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Alleluia.
Gospel: Matthew 10:16-31
Sermon: Daniel 6:1-24. Faithful, Even Before Hungry Lions
We look to Daniel who remained faithful to God, even before hungry lions.
Count on God to do for you as he has promised regardless of the dangers that are threatening you and likely lack of miracles.
Though we do not expect life or death persecutions, we still have plenty of opportunities to live for God in our customary ways.
Don’t be afraid to continue being faithful to God. Rather, draw your strength from God’s faithfulness to you so that you may always remain faithful to him, even if it is before hungry lions.
Amen
Pastor Tim Patoka
Summer Worship Series, July 18, 2021 Let evertyhing that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Psalm 150:6
Readings for Summer Worship Series #7
First Lesson: Isaiah 61:1-11. This lesson is filled with promises fulfilled by God; some through Jesus and some yet to come.
Second Lesson: Romans 4:13-17a. These verses focus on God’s promise to Abraham and to those with the faith of Abraham.
Verse of the Day: John 20:31. These words are written that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Alleluia.
Gospel and Sermon Text. Matthew 15:21-28. Great Faith Trusts God’s Promises. (Jesus and the Canaanite woman and a little dog.)
We have sinned by not always showing a great faith that is based on a dep knowledge of God.
We have sinned by not always having the right motivation for our prayers.
We have sinned by giving up on our requests to Jesus and not persisting in seeing his blessing.
These kinds of sins may not be obvious on the outside, but God knows them. That means that these are sins Jesus came to pay for. May this lesson lead us to have a great faith that is confident in Jesus, and move us to go to him with our persistent prayers. Amen.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Summer Worship Series, July 11, 2021 Let evertyhing that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Psalm 150:6
Readings for Summer Worship Series #6
First Lesson: Numbers 22:22-35.
Psalm of the Day: Psalm 91. God is our refuge and fortress.
Second Lesson: Acts 13:26-39. God has Paul write that everyone who believes in Jesus is justified.
Verse of the Day: John 20:31. These words are written that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Alleluia.
Gospel: Luke 4:14-30. God promised us a savior and Jesus was that Savior.
Sermon: Numbers 22:22-35. A Talking Donkey.
God wasn’t going to let Balak curse His people, in fact, he protected them against any and every enemy. He kept all of his promises.
In protecting his people, God was preserving a promise for the whole world: Jesus died for the sins of ALL.
It means that He will keep us safe in Him until we reach our heavenly home.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Summer Worship Series, July 4, 2021 Let evertyhing that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Psalm 150:6
Readings for Summer Worship Series #5
First Lesson and Sermon Text: Exodus 16:6-30
Verse of the Day: John 20:31. These words are written that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God.
Second Lesson: Philippians 4:10-20. God supplies all our needs.
Gospel: Matthew 6:7-15. During his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught us to pray what we refer to as “The Lord’s Prayer” in which we trust in God to, among other things, “give us today our daily bread.”
Sermon: Exodus 16:6-30 Quail
In this account, God is teaching us that we can trust him, to pray for all that we need for our bodies and lives, and to acknowledge that all our good gifts come from god and give him thanks for them.
But he would also have us remember that the physical needs he takes care of for us are far less important than the spiritual needs he has already taken care of through his Son Jesus. In fact, it’s the forgiveness of sins and eternal life that make this life worth living and allow us to truly appreciate our daily bread.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Summer Worship Series, June 27, 2021 Let evertyhing that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Psalm 150:6
Readings for Summer Worship Series #4
First Lesson and Sermon Text: Exodus 29:38-46
Verse of the Day: John 20:31. These words are written that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God.
Second Lesson: Revelation 5:6-25. As the slain Lamb of God, Jesus is worthy of our praise.
Gospel: John 1:29-34. John the Baptist testified that Jesus is the one who came into the world to take away the sin of the world.
Sermon: Exodus 29:38-46. Year-Old Lambs
God blesses us with the assurance that the Lamb of God has truly taken our sins away along with his additional blessings.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Summer Worship Series, June 20, 2021 Let evertyhing that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Psalm 150:6
Readings for Summer Worship Series #3
First Lesson and Sermon Text: Genesis 7:6-24
Verse of the Day: John 20:31. These words are written that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God.
Second Lesson: 2 Peter 3:1-9. There’s always those who will reject the WORD, the flood, and the Lord’s promise of a savior.
Gospel: Matthew 24:36-44. Jesus will return on the last day at an hour when we do not expect it.
Sermon: Genesis 7:6-24. The Flood: God’s Judgment and Rescue.
As we remember the Great Flood and Noah’s Ark, remember that God had every right to scrap the whole world and everything in it, but he didn’t. He sent The Flood both in judgment and for rescue.
- Let it remind us that God judges sin and punishes it.
- Let it remind us that Jesus took the punishment for our sin, and in so doing, we have been rescued from eternal destruction and have eternal life ahead of us.
- Let it remind us to have the kind of trust Noah had as he listened to God, knowing that the LORD would save him.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Summer Worship Series, June 13, 2021 Let evertyhing that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Psalm 150:6
Readings for Summer Worship Series #2
First Lesson and Sermon Text: Genesis 3:1-19
Psalm of the day: Psalm 51a: The psalmist asks God for mercy and forgiveness.
Second Lesson: 1 John: 3:7-10. In John’s chapter, God warns believers against the words of the devil and the temptations he brings..
Verse of the Day: John 20:31. These words are written that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God.
Gospel: John 8:42-47. Jesus warns us against the works of the devil and those who listen to his lies.
Sermon: Genesis 3:1-19. The Clever Serpent.
When God created the world he described all of it as very good. But Satan the clever devil presented himself to Adam and Eve, bringing temptation into their perfect world. They could listen to God and obey him or they could give in to his enemy, Satan. Satan was successful, and for that, he was cursed.
The good news is that salvation is yours because God has rescued you. He sent his dear Son Jesus to do battle with Satan’s temptations. He won that battle for us.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Summer Worship Series, Animals According to Their Kind, June 6, 2021
Readings for Summer Worship Series #1
First Lesson and Sermon Text: Genesis 1:20-31.
Second Lesson: Hebrews 11:1-6. Being a child of God means we believe what we cannot prove because we trust God.
Verse of the Day: John 20:31. These words are written that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God.
Gospel: John 1:1-14.
Sermon: Welcome to the Grand Opening of God’s Zoo! Genesis 1:20-31.
On day six, our God created all living things but the crown of his creation was man. We were to rule over and manage all else that God had created, although this is not what always happens.
God cares for our souls and, though we are sinful, he wants us to be with him in heaven. For this reason, Jesus entered our world We can show our thanks and our love to him with a proper view of the Genesis account of creation, by caring for his creation and appreciating the amazing God who gave us this incredible zoo we find ourselves in.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Readings for this Service: Holy Trinity
First Lesson: Isaiah 6:1-8. God gave His prophet Isaiah a view into His throne room.
Second Lesson: Romans 8:14-17. The Spirit of God has made us His heirs.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 3:1-17. Describing a God Beyond Understanding.
Trying to get all the details right about the way that God reveals himself to us is a mind-boggling thing.
We can’t really understand it, because we don’t know anything else that is three-in-one like God is, but we know that God in his whole desires our salvation. He loves us: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
The Day of Pentecost, Sunday, May 23, 2021
Readings for this Service: The Day of Pentecost
First Lesson: Ezekiel 37:1-14. The Holy Spirit has power to bring life to the dead.
Second Lesson: Acts 2:1-21. The Holy Spirit brings us to trust in Jesus for our salvation.
Gospel: John 14:25-27. Jesus promises to send the Holy Spirit to remind us of what he has done for us and to leave us with true peace.
Sermon: Acts 2:1-21: The Holy Spirit’s Wonderful and Prophesied Presence
- Marvel at God’s Wonderful Work in You.
- Believe in What This All Means.
It was in Jerusalem after Jesus’ ascension into Heaven that the Holy spirit made his presence known those gathered from far reaching lands. What they were hearing—-each in their own language—-was the wonderful works of God—-the Gospel.
The one who calls upon Jesus with faith in their heart will be saved from their sins and the eternal punishment that hell is.
The Holy Spirit’s presence on Pentecost was prophesied about by the prophet Joel some 900 years before in Joel 2: 28-32 where he was inspired to write of signs of the great and glorious day of the Lord and that all who call on the name of the Lord will be saved.
Pastor Tim Patoka
The Ascension of Our Lord, Sunday, May 16, 2021
Readings for this Service: Connected Though Not Present
First Lesson: Acts 1:1-11
Second Lesson: Ephesians 4:7-16.
Verse of the Day: John 14:23. If anyone loves me he will hold on to my word. My father will love him, and we will come to him, and make our home with him.
Gospel: Luke 24:44-53.
Sermon: Acts 1:1-11: Connected Though Not Present
- Established by the Holy Spirit’s Gift of Faith.
- Strengthened through God’s Revealed Knowledge.
At Jesus’ ascension into Heaven, he went from visibly present to visibly absent, but that doesn’t mean we’ve lost our connection to him—-it is not dependent on Jesus’ visible present. Rather it is established by the Holy Spirit through the gift of faith he works in us.
There’s work for growth by reading his word in the Bible, Sunday church attendance, Bible study. May we treasure our established and strengthened connection to our ascended Lord so that when we finally see him visibly present, we may do so rejoicing. Amen.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Sixth Sunday of Easter, May 9, 2021
Readings for this Service: Connected by Love
First Lesson: Acts 9:36-42
Second Lesson: 1 John 4:1-11.
Verse of the Day: John 14:23. If anyone loves me he will hold on to my word. My father will love him, and we will come to him, and make our home with him.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 15: 9-17.
The Strong Connections of Love
- The Father to Jesus.
- Jesus to you.
- You to others.
Pastor Ron Koehler
Fourth Sunday of Easter, April 25, 2021
Readings for this Service: Connected to the Shepherd.
First Lesson: Acts 20:28-32. We need to be on guard against those who would turn us away from the Word of God’s grace.
Psalm 23. This psalm describes God’s loving care for his people.
Second Lesson: 1 Peter 5:1-5. Peter gives direction and loving encouragement to ministers of the Gospel.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 10:11-18.
Know your Good Shepherd:
- He lovingly lays down his life for his sheep.
- He knows and is known by his sheep.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Third Sunday of Easter, April 18, 2021
Readings for this Service:
First Lesson: Acts 12:1-19. God did amazing things through the life of Peter. Whatever you fear—hold fast to the Word and the risen and ruling Christ in it. He will not forsake you but remains with you through his Word.
Psalm 118. This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
Second Lesson: 2 Corinthians 2:12-3::6. Paul praises and thanks God for allowing him to spread the Gospel.
Gospel and Sermon Text: Luke 24:36-49. Connected to the Scriptures.
We connect to the Scriptures to know that Jesus is alive and to know why Jesus is alive: that he is alive for us. He is alive for our forgiveness. He is alive to take away our doubts and fears. He is alive so that we may live with him forever.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Second Sunday of Easter, April 11, 2021
Readings for this Service:
First Lesson: Acts 26:19-29. Paul had found the peace that only belief in God can bring and tried to share that peace with others.
Psalm 16. Keep me safe, O God, for in you I take refuge.
Second Lesson: 1 Corinthians 15:12-22. Even death cannot take away our life in Christ Jesus.
Gospel and Sermon Text: John 20:19-31. Connected to Peace.
God made us for connections—-with our parents, spouses, families, friends, and communities and he blesses us in many ways through these connections.
But there is one connection that clearly towers over all these other connections as far as it’s value and importance—-our connection to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
When we are connected to him, we are connected to peace.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
The Hands of the Passion
Easter Service, April 4, 2021
Sermon: Living Hands (John 20:1-18)
Every Easter celebration has one thing in common—-the joyous message of Jesus’ resurrection from the grave.
Jesus’ lifeless hands became living again on Easter because of his resurrection from the dead. The only way we can believe this impossible truth is through the Holy Spirit’s gift of faith.
Rejoice in the wonderful truth of your living Savior. While it took some of the disciples and Mary Magdalene some time to believe it Easter morning, they eventually rejoice in the wonderful truth of their living Savior.
Not only is he the real deal, his living hands confirm that the price for our sins has been paid in full and forgiveness is a certain blessing for us.
As such, may we follow Mary’s example by quickly and gladly telling others that Jesus is risen, he is risen indeed!
Alleluia! Amen
Pastor Tim Patoka
The Hands of the Passion
Maundy Thursday Service, April 1, 2021
Sermon: Giving Hands, Mark 14:22-24
Jesus gives the Real Presence.
While it may have taken us a while to turn our attention to Jesus’ own hands in this Hans of the Passion worship series, it doesn’t diminish what we see. For it is Jesus giving hands that bestow upon us the sacrament of Holy Communion where he gives us what he plainly says — his body and blood together, with, and under the bread and wine in something we call the Real Presence.
Jesus gives this to many sinners.
As part of Jesus’ last will and testament, he gives the sacrament’s blessing of forgiveness to many sinners who recognize and believe what’s really present. Jesus gives us this forgiveness not just because we are in constant and dire need of it, but to also assure that we are exactly what he says — his beloved and forgiven child.
Pastor Tim Patoka
Palm Sunday, March 28, 2021
The Struggle: Psalms for Lent
Readings for this Service:
First Lesson: Zechariah 9:9-10. Jesus is the fulfillment of all God’s promises in the Old Testament.
Second Lesson: Philippians 2:5-11. This reading proclaims the two states of Christ: God and Man.
Verse of the Day: John 12:23: The time has come for the Son of Man to be glorified.
Gospel: Mark 11:1-10. Jesus entry into Jerusalem to save us sinners. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!
Sermon: Psalm 24. The Return of the King.
The Psalm today doesn’t sound like the ones in the past weeks. It doesn’t sound like the struggle. It sounds like a celebration, like victory.
You and I came into this world that God had crated for us and already at that moment we were set against the Creator—-there is the struggle, the struggle we lose every day.
We need a hero, a Savior; we need the King of Glory spoken about in this Psalm. This Savior is Jesus Christ.
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
The Hands of the Passion
Midweek Lenten Service, Week 6, March 24, 2021
Sermon: Hands of Self-Preservation (Pilate)
The whole idea of washing your hands of someone or something seems to stem from Pilate’s public ritual recorded in Matthew 27. He washed his hand in a bowl of water to make it clear that he was no longer responsible for what was going to happen.
We don’t want to wash our hands of our responsibilities, our opportunities to do what is good, and our chances to serve our Savior.
The reality is that a bowl of water could never wash away the guilt on Pilate’s hands. The reality is our excuses can never wash the sinful stains off of our hands.
But Jesus our Savior died for those sins and washed those stains for us. He allows us to use our hands and our everything to serve him instead of ourselves.
Thank God for our Savior!
Pastor Nathan Kassulke
Fifth Sunday in Lent, March 21 2021
The Struggle: Psalms for Lent
Readings for this Service:
First Lesson: Jeremiah 31:31-34. Remember that Lent is for us sinners. Nothing that Jesus suffers in his Passion is because of his own guilt.
Second Lesson: Hebrews 5:7-10. Because of Jesus, God is pleased with us and accepts us.
Verse of the Day: Mark 10:45. The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.
Gospel: John 12:20-33. Jesus makes it clear that by his cross he may draw us to him.
Sermon: Psalm 143. The Lord’s Help in Our Relentless Struggles.
Everyone has struggles that just won’t go away. No matter where they come from, they bring with it unrelenting hardships that threaten to empty our spirits and devastate our hearts with eternal consequences.
It is for that reason we turn to the Lord for help. And because of his mercy, faithfulness, righteousness and his own name’s sake, we can be confident that our Lord will help us as he knows best.
May our Lord help us look to him in all our relentless struggles, now and forever.
Amen
Pastor Tim Patoka
The Hands of the Passion
Midweek Lenten Service, Week 5, March 17, 2021
Sermon: Hands of Brutality (Matthew 27:27-31)
God’s wrath has been taken away because of Christ’s willing sacrifice for you. Jesus endured the brutality of the soldiers, the torture of the cross, the punishment of hell in our place.
Sin leads us away from what is good and holy and drags us into dark places.
How much better life is when we have our big brother and Savior Jesus standing by our side. He’s by our side and he’s there to defend us against all spiritual and physical enemies we face.
Let us share the peace that only Jesus can bring with others!
Pastor David Parsons