The Twin Steeples Podcast

This recording is a condensed version of the sermon preached at Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church on June 1, 2025. You can watch the full recording on our YouTube Channel. Psalm 19:1-11 The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament shows His handiwork. 2  Day unto day utters speech, And night unto night reveals knowledge. 3  There is no speech nor language Where their voice is not heard. 4  Their line has gone out through all the earth, And their words to the end of the world. In them He has set a tabernacle for the sun, 5  Which is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, And rejoices like a strong man to run its race. 6  Its rising is from one end of heaven, And its circuit to the other end; And there is nothing hidden from its heat.   7  The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul;  The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple; 8   The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart;  The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes; 9   The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever;  The judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.  10  More to be desired are they than gold, Yea, than much fine gold; Sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. 11  Moreover by them Your servant is warned, And in keeping them there is great reward.  Theme: The Glory of God is Revealed God's Glory is Revealed in Nature The LORD's Glory is Revealed in His Word

This weekend we come to the end of the Easter Season. We will also be celebrating the Lord's Supper in our service this weekend. As we do so, we will consider a communion hymn instead of an Easter hymn. There are several words that we associate with the Lord's Supper. We call it a Sacrament, which is a holy act, instituted by Christ, has an earthly element connected to God's Word, and imparts a blessing from God, namely forgiveness of sin, life and salvation. We also refer to it as Holy Communion based on Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 10:16-17. Lutherans teach the Real Presence of the Lord's Supper, in contrast to the Roman Catholic teaching of Transubstantiation or the Reformed view of Representation. This is the clear teaching of Scripture based on 1 Corinthians 11:23-27, where Paul says that we receive Christ's body and His blood, but also receive with our mouths the earthly elements of bread and wine. This hymn highlights several important truths about the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper. First, it reinforces what the Sacrament is. The hymnwriter states: "As Host You spread no common food, here is Your body and Your blood" (verse 1), but also "this bread and cup my lips have pressed" (verse 2). This is the Real Presence. He also tells us that the Lord's Supper is not an action of man, but of God. We receive the blessings that God gives in this Sacrament. "Where pardon, peace, and life are spent" and "You bless, and my soul is blessed" (verse 2). This blessing from God motivates us and strengthens us for lives of service to Him. "Now let me as Your guest depart... a new life may my offering be" (verse 3). Our prayer is that God would work in us through His word and sacrament to keep us in the faith until He returns on the last day, when we "as Your heavenly guest, in anthems praise You with the blessed" (verse 4). This hymn serves to remind us about why we come to the Lord's Table. It teaches us what it is. It assures us of what God offers through it. As such it encourages us to come to the Lord's Supper and receive His blessing for our eternal blessing. May the LORD bless your worship this weekend, as well as Your reception of His precious sacrament!   he Lord's Day is a term found in Revelation, which referred to Sunday. The early Christians called the first day of the week the Lord's Day, because it was on that day that the Lord had risen from the dead. He was the victor! It was now HIS day! This hymn by Julia Elliott does several creative things. First it uses the Biblical idea of light vs. darkness in each of the verses, tying this concept to three different historical events: The creation of Light, the resurrection of Jesus, and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost. With each verse she focuses on a different person of the Triune God. And in each verse she points out that we pray that our Triune God would continue His work of bringing light into our dark lives and world through the Gospel.  Ephesians 5:13-17 serves as part of the basis for this beautiful hymn. There Paul writes: "But all things that are exposed are made manifest by the light, for whatever makes manifest is light. Therefore He says: “Awake, you who sleep, Arise from the dead, And Christ will give you light.” See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is."   Join us in our study of this hymn and its writer, and as we learn more about the Scriptural foundation and meaning of our hymns so that our use of them would be more beneficial as we gather in worship and use this hymn of praise. May the LORD bless you as He enlightens you through His word this weekend!

Devotion Ecclesiastes 3:10-15   Announcements No Sunday School and Bible Class Sunday Service at 9:00am Rummage Sale Memorial Day Service Ladies' Auxiliary Evening Ambassadors Ascension Day Service Men's Breakfast Ladies Bible Study Congregational Meeting Midweek Bible Study starts next Thursday Delegates' Conference Mission Festival   Prayer List  Pastor John Hein Pastor Tim Wheaton Jim Lien Agnes Kopp Ethan Kranz Mark Stelter Mark Schweim Marilyn Timm Professor Joel Gullerud Members at a Distance Mission in Nepal   Common Christian Q &A: Does the Bible approve of slavery?   Hymn: TLH 514 “God Moves in a Mysterious Way” 

This recording is a condensed version of the sermon preached at Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church on May 25, 2025. You can watch the full recording on our YouTube Channel.   1 John 5:11-15  And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. 12 He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. 13 These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God. 14 Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. 15 And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him. Theme: The Testimony of God Verifies the Truth of the Resurrection 1. A Testimony Verifying Life In His Son  2. A Testimony Which Gives Confidence in Prayer 

The fifth weekend after Easter is known as "Rogate Sunday." Rogate is the Latin word for "prayer." There is a connection between prayer and the Resurrection of Jesus from the dead. Jesus tells us to pray to the Father "in His name" and other passages of Scripture speak of praying "in the name of Jesus." But what value is prayer "in the name of Jesus" if He is dead? Prayer is only valuable if Jesus is living, interceding on our behalf before the Throne of God. So there is a rich connection between prayer and the celebration of Jesus' resurrection from the dead. This weekend we will be singing a meaningful hymn of Norwegian heritage written by Caspar Boye and based on the resurrection appearance of Jesus to the two men who were walking to the town of Emmaus on the day of Christ's resurrection. The theme of the hymn is taken from their request (prayer) of Jesus: "Abide with us, for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent." (Luke 24:29) This hymn highlights the power and value of prayer throughout. We ask: "Incline Thine ear, Thou King of Grace" (v.1). We acknowledge "In prayer devout, before Thee bending" (v.2). We recall "When Thou didst pray: 'Thy will be done'" (v.3). And we pray: "Abide with us" (v.3,4).  As we have before we focus on the topic of death. Paul declares: "The last enemy that will be destroyed is death." (1 Corinthians 15:26) He then continues: "So when this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: “Death is swallowed up in victory.” (1 Corinthians 15:54) Thanks be to God! Savior, strengthen us through the burdens of this sinful world with the confidence in Your victory and in the knowledge that because You live, our prayers in Your name are powerful and effective! Help us to make better use of this precious gift and privilege! Join us this weekend as we rejoice in these rich blessings of God's grace in Christ! 

Devotion Ecclesiastes 3:1-9   Announcements No Sunday School and Bible Class Sunday Service at 9:00am Graduation Thank you to Brandan Heinze Voter's Meeting Women's Study Guild Rummage Sale Church Choir Men's Breakfast Ladies Bible Study Anchored in Hope Memorial Day Service Ascension Day Service Congregational Meetings Delegates' Conference Mission Festival   Prayer List  Pastor John Hein Pastor Tim Wheaton Jim Lien Agnes Kopp Mark Stelter Mark Schweim Family of Mary Schierenbeck Expansion Relocation Committee and Comparison Committee Mission in Liberia   Common Christian Q &A: What did they do with offerings in the Old Testament?   Hymn: TLH 521 “What God Ordains Is Always Good” 

This recording is a condensed version of the sermon preached at Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church on May 18, 2025. You can watch the full recording on our YouTube Channel.   John 21:20-25   Then Peter, turning around, saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following, who also had leaned on His breast at the supper, and said, "Lord, who is the one who betrays You?" 21 Peter, seeing him, said to Jesus, "But Lord, what about this man?" 22 Jesus said to him, "If I will that he remain till I come, what is that to you? You follow Me." 23 Then this saying went out among the brethren that this disciple would not die. Yet Jesus did not say to him that he would not die, but, "If I will that he remain till I come, what is that to you?" 24 This is the disciple who testifies of these things, and wrote these things; and we know that his testimony is true. 25 And there are also many other things that Jesus did, which if they were written one by one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that would be written. Amen.   Theme: Comparison Is the Thief of Joy 1. God Gives a Variety of Blessings 2. True Joy Come from Following Christ

we continue in our celebration of the resurrection of Jesus again this weekend. One of the hymns we will be singing this weekend is a German hymn from the 1700's written by Johann Moller.  This hymn weaves in many New Testament Bible passages and does a beautiful job of showing us what the resurrection of Jesus actually means for us. As we saw two weeks ago, this hymn also begins and ends each verse with the emphatic declaration: "I am content!"  The death and resurrection of Jesus is able to give us greater contentment than the knowledge that He cares for our physical needs. He cares even more about our spiritual needs. To guarantee this Jesus "fulfilled the law of God for me" (v.1). In addition to His perfect life, Jesus also paid our sin debt through His own death on Calvary's cross. Then He rose from the dead, bringing death into subjection to Him and releasing believers from its power.  Jesus is my Lord and is a good and gracious leader and ruler who desires and accomplishing "my soul's release" (v.3), and promises to bring us to Heaven. He is also the Light of the World, which offers sinners "sweet comfort, hope and peace" (v.4). Finally we return to the topic of death. Through His own death, Jesus has sactified death and the grave of His saints, and in the resurrection from the dead will destroy the power of death over His redeemed children. In the resurrection from death "we shall always be with the Lord" (1 Thessalonians 4:17). Yes, "I am content!" The resurrection of Jesus gives the greatest hope and peace!    Join us in our study of this hymn and as we join to sing this hymn in our worship this weekend. Christ's resurrection gives us the greatest contentment of all! 

Devotion Ecclesiastes 2:24-26   Announcements Sunday School and Bible Class Board of Elders Church Choir Men's Breakfast Graduation Service Ladies Bible Study Anchored in Hope Recessed Voters' Meeting Women's Study Guild Rummage Sale Memorial Day Service Ascension Day Service Delegates' Conference Mission Festival   Prayer List  Pastor John Hein Pastor Tim Wheaton Jim Lien Lilia Howley Mark Stelter Family of Nila Strege Family of Mary Schierenbeck Christian Parents Mission in Congo   Common Christian Q &A: Why is the Bible not organized chronologically?   Hymn: LSB 854 “Forth in Thy Name, O Lord, I Go”

This recording is a condensed version of the sermon preached at Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church on May 11, 2025. You can watch the full recording on our YouTube Channel.   Matthew 9:14-17 14 Then the disciples of John came to Him, saying, "Why do we and the Pharisees fast often, but Your disciples do not fast?" 15  And Jesus said to them, "Can the friends of the bridegroom mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? But the days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast. 16 No one puts a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment; for the patch pulls away from the garment, and the tear is made worse. 17  Nor do they put new wine into old wineskins, or else the wineskins break, the wine is spilled, and the wineskins are ruined. But they put new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved." Theme: The Old is Incompatible with the New The Old: Work-righteousness of men The New: Salvation through Christ Jesus

The Third Sunday after Easter is known as "Jubilate" Sunday. Jubilate is a Latin word that means "rejoice." Certainly there is much rejoicing that happens during Easter. The Alleluia's have returned after the penitential season of Lent and there is much joy in our worship and singing. But the hymn that we are studying in preparation for our worship this weekend is not from the Easter section of our hymnal, but the "Lord's Day" section. The Lord's Day is a term found in Revelation, which referred to Sunday. The early Christians called the first day of the week the Lord's Day, because it was on that day that the Lord had risen from the dead. He was the victor! It was now HIS day! This hymn by Julia Elliott does several creative things. First it uses the Biblical idea of light vs. darkness in each of the verses, tying this concept to three different historical events: The creation of Light, the resurrection of Jesus, and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost. With each verse she focuses on a different person of the Triune God. And in each verse she points out that we pray that our Triune God would continue His work of bringing light into our dark lives and world through the Gospel.  Ephesians 5:13-17 serves as part of the basis for this beautiful hymn. There Paul writes: "But all things that are exposed are made manifest by the light, for whatever makes manifest is light. Therefore He says: “Awake, you who sleep, Arise from the dead, And Christ will give you light.” See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is."   Join us in our study of this hymn and its writer, and as we learn more about the Scriptural foundation and meaning of our hymns so that our use of them would be more beneficial as we gather in worship and use this hymn of praise. May the LORD bless you as He enlightens you through His word this weekend!

Devotion Ecclesiastes 2:18-23   Announcements Sunday School and Bible Class Time and Talents Ladies' Auxiliary Banquet Voters Meeting Church Choir Men's Breakfast Ladies Bible Study Church Council Adopt a Highway - May 10 K-8 Sings on Mother's Day Anchored in Hope Pool Adventure Day - May 11 Evening Ambassadors - May 12 Board of Education and Board of Property - May 13 Graduation Day - May 16 Recessed Voters' Meeting - May 19 Rummage Sale - May 24-25   Prayer List  Pastor John Hein Pastor Tim Wheaton Jim Lien Lilia Howley Mark Stelter Family of Melvin Krueger Family of Aubrielle Howley Family of Robert Rehm Zach Lien, Karl Friedrichs. Alan Olmanson, Doug Schaller, Craig Stelter Mission in Kenya   Hymn: TLH 624 “O Blessed Home Where Man and Wife”

This recording is a condensed version of the sermon preached at Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church on May 4, 2025. You can watch the full recording on our YouTube Channel.   Romans 4:23-5:5 Now it was not written for his sake alone that it was imputed to him, 24 but also for us. It shall be imputed to us who believe in Him who raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead, 25 who was delivered up because of our offenses, and was raised because of our justification. 5:1 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; 4 and perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. The "Therefore" of Easter 1. Therefore, We Have Peace with God 2. Therefore, We Glory in Tribulations

This weekend we continue in our celebration of the resurrection of Jesus in the Season of Easter. One of the hymns we will be singing this weekend is a German hymn from the 1700's written by Christian Gellert.  This hymn weaves in many New Testament Bible passages and does a beautiful job of showing us what the resurrection of Jesus actually means for us. Each verse begins with the emphatic declaration: "Jesus Lives!" and ends with the statement: "This shall be my confidence!" What does the resurrection of Jesus mean? "Death no longer can appal [horrify] me" (verse 1). Because Jesus lives, we will live also. It means "I shall go where He is gone" (v.2). Jesus has finished His work and ascended into heaven. And He will return and bring us there as well. It also means "For me He died" (verse 3) so I will live for Jesus, just as the Apostle Paul says in 2 Corinthians 5:15: “and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again." It means "God will be a sure Defense" (verse 4), and "neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus" (Romans 8:39). Finally, it means "Now is death but the gate of life immortal" (verse 5). Jesus has defeated death and now it is simply the door which leads us to the presence of our Savior in eternity. Yes, "Jesus lives! This shall be my confidence!" The resurrection of Jesus is not myth. It is not just some historical event. It has significant meaning for us today, and for eternity.    Join us as celebrate the rich meaning of Christ's resurrection from the dead and as join our hearts and lips to give Him praise and glory for that victory over death! 

Devotion Ecclesiastes 2:12-17   Announcements Confirmation Last Weekend Sunday School and Bible Class Ladies' Auxiliary Church Choir Men's Breakfast Ladies Bible Study Banquet Anchored in Hope Recessed Voters' Meeting Adopt a Highway - May 10 Pool Adventure Day - May 11 Graduation Day - May 16 Rummage Sale - May 24-25   Prayer List  Pastor John Hein Pastor Tim Wheaton Jim Lien Lilia Howley Dave Busse Mark Stelter Jason Family of Melvin Krueger Family of Robert Rehm Mrs. Greve and Mr. Schrader Missions in Bangladesh   Common Christian Q&A: Why do Catholics have the crucifix and we have only the cross?    Hymn: TLH 398 “Renew Me, O Eternal Light”

This recording is a condensed version of the sermon preached at Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church on April 27, 2025. You can watch the full recording on our YouTube Channel.   Psalm 56:8-13 You have kept count of my tossings; put my tears in your bottle. Are they not in your book? 9 Then my enemies will turn back in the day when I call. This I know, that God is for me. 10 In God, whose word I praise, in the LORD, whose word I praise, 11 in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me? 12 I must perform my vows to you, O God; I will render thank offerings to you. 13 For you have delivered my soul from death, yes, my feet from falling, that I may walk before God in the light of life. GOD IS FOR YOU 1. Through All of the Tossings and the Tears 2. That You May Walk Before Him in the Light of Life

We will be celebrating the confirmation of several of our young people this weekend in our worship service. Confirmation is an opportunity for the Christian (young or old) to declare before their fellow believers their Christian faith and to assure their fellow believers that they are agreed with them on the teachings of Scripture as they prepare to join them in the celebration of the Lord's Supper. As the confirmands make this profession of their faith, their fellow believers join in praying for the LORD to keep them in that faith, and give them strength as they join us in the fight of faith against the devil, the world, and our own sinful flesh. With this in mind, we will be singing a hymn that is especially appropriate for Confirmation. The hymn "Arm These Thy Soldiers, Mighty Lord" was written by Christopher Wordsworth (who was the nephew of the famous poet William Wordsworth). Christopher Wordsworth was classically trained and extremely gifted in many ways. Even though he was extremely intelligent and thoroughly rooted in Scripture, his hymns are very simple and down to earth as we will see in this hymn.   The hymn is primarily based on Ephesians 6:13-18: "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." This hymn reminds us that our Triune God is the only one who is able to sustain us and give us the strength and tools that we need in this battle. So we go to Him in prayer, for our confirmation students and for all of us, asking for Him to be with us and bless us in the work that He has called us to as His people and soldiers in His army. As we do so, we rejoice in the final destination of heaven and the crown of righteousness which is ours because of Jesus' work for us on Calvary.   Join us as we encourage these young people in their faith walk this weekend, and as we reflect on our own service in the Lord's army. We joyfully join together to praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost -- our Triune God, for all that God has done to secure our salvation! 

Devotion Ecclesiastes 2:1-11   Announcements No Sunday School and Bible Class Holy Week Recap Voters Meeting Board of Deacons Church Choir Men's Breakfast No Ladies Bible Study Confirmation - April 27 Recessed Voters' Meeting Ladies' Auxiliary Banquet Adopt-a-Highway - May 10   Prayer List  Pastor John Hein Pastor Tim Wheaton Jim Lien Lilia Howley Ethan Kranz Dave Busse Nila Strege Family of Leah Family of Melvin Krueger Mrs. Busch and Mr. Hanel Missions in Togo   Hymn:TLH 425 “All Depends on Our Possessing”

This weekend we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus from the dead in our weekend worship. Over the past  40 days of Lent, we have removed the Alleluia's from the hymns and responses in our liturgy to focus on the somber reality of Christ's suffering for us and in humble repentance over our sins. Now this weekend, our Alleluia's will joyfully return. The word Alleluia is the Greek version of the Hebrew word Hallelujah. Both words mean: Praise the LORD, or Praise Yahweh (the Triune God). We will be singing the praises of God in our worship this weekend! Hymn 732 in the Worship Supplement was written by an American Lutheran pastor, Paul Zeller Strodach, who grew up in Pennsylvania.  This hymn reminds us of the joy of the angels who rejoice over one sinner who repents, and who long to look into the salvation God has accomplished through the life and death of Jesus.  The Apostle Paul writes: "But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." (1 Corinthians 15:57) This is the victory we celebrate in the resurrection of Jesus. Through His resurrection we have the gift of eternal life and the blessing of the work of the Holy Spirit who brings us to faith through word and sacrament, and the assurance of our Savior's presence in our lives no matter what we might face in this world of sin.  So we sing "Alleluia" -- Praise the LORD, for His resurrection and completed work of salvation for us.  Join us for our resurrection worship this weekend as we joyfully proclaim Jesus' victory over sin and death and its meaning for us now and for eternity! 

Devotion Ecclesiastes 1:16-18   Announcements No Sunday School and Bible Class Cemetery Cleanup Day Congregational Meeting Principal Call Holy Week Schedule Church Choir Men's Breakfast No Ladies Bible Study Voters' Meeting Confirmation   Prayer List  Pastor John Hein Pastor Tim Wheaton Jim Lien Lilia Howley Ethan Kranz Dave Busse Nila Strege Mr. Fischer and Mrs. Roettger Missions in Congo   Hymn: TLH 169 “Jesus Christ, Our Lord Most Holy”

This weekend we are studying a hymn by an Anglican Pastor, Timothy Dudley-Smith. Smith was ordained by the Church of England in 1950 and over the 40 years of his ministry wrote hundreds of hymns some of which have been included in more modern Lutheran hymnals. We have several of his hymns in our Worship Supplement.  The Palm Sunday hymn "No Tramp of Soldiers' Marching Feet" not only summarizes the events of Palm Sunday recorded in the Gospels by the evangelists, but goes on to detail how many people on that first Palm Sunday missed the ultimate purpose for Jesus' coming to this earth.  Jesus was not welcomed by powerful people and leaders, but by the poor, common and lowly (including children). Although He was not received as He should have been and the King of Creation and Savior of the world, He came anyway. He came in humility and in fulfillment of God's promises recorded in the Old Testament. Nothing was going to prevent Jesus from carrying out His work of salvation. The world would ultimately know Jesus for who and what He truly was! But it would not be an easy road. His road meant suffering, rejection by men, abandonment by God, all so that He could bear the punishment for sinful man's rebellion against God. But the world will know Jesus on the last day. Jesus has carried out the work of salvation. He lived, died, and victoriously rose from death. His people, and all people, will acknowledge Him as King when He returns in glory on the last day.   Join us for worship this weekend as we joyfully proclaim Jesus as our King and our Savior from sin. 

Devotion Ecclesiastes 1:12-15   Announcements Sunday School and Bible Class Church Cleanup Day Midweek Lent Service Church Choir Men's Breakfast Ladies Bible Study Cemetery Cleanup Day Congregational Meeting Anchored in Hope Holy Week (April 13-20) Voters' Meeting   Prayer List  Pastor John Hein Pastor Tim Wheaton Jim Lien Lilia Howley Ethan Kranz Dave Busse Margaret Wheaton Nila Strege Mr. Heinze and Mr. Mariner Attack of CLCI Leaders War in Mayanmar   Hymn: TLH 294 “O Word of God Incarnate”

The hymn we study this weekend was written by Timothy Dwight, a Reformed pastor and teacher at the time of the founding of our country. He was the grandson of revivalist, Jonathan Edwards, and a scholar by his own right. He was known by George Washington, and the President of Yale University.  This is the only hymn that we have by Dwight in our hymnal, and sadly, some of the greater verses have been dropped out of other hymnals to make in more palatable to modern sensitivities (notably verses 3 and 6). It is found in the "Communion of Saints" section of our hymnal and is full of Biblical imagery for the church. The church, or the communion of saints, all believers, is referred to as "her" based on the picture of the church as the Bride of Christ (Ephesians 5). The hymn is a reminder that every Christian is a part of the whole of God's church. We are connected, not only to God, but also to one another. Because of this we join together in prayer and praise and encourage and support one another with our prayers as well as support. It is also through the visible church that the LORD imparts His gifts to His people through the "blest communion" and the Word by which God make rich promises to us of forgiveness and life, and in response we make promises to Him to be faithful to Him and in our use of His gifts. We dare not abuse His altar either by neglect or by aggression against Him or His people.  The hymn points us to Jesus as our Redeemer, as True God, our Savior and the victory He has secured for us over our enemies. So we declare His word of Truth in confidence of His return on the Last Day and our joyful reunion with Him and all His people for eternity! Isaiah says “The grass withers, the flower fades, But the word of our God stands forever” (Isaiah 40:8). As sure as we are that God's Word of Truth will last, we can also be certain that the church will finally inherit the eternal life Jesus came to win.  Join us this weekend as join together with our fellow believers to rejoice in God's gift of the CHURCH, both the fellowship that we have with Him through His Word and Sacraments, and the fellowship that He had created between believers united in faith and confession. What great blessings are ours! May the LORD bless your hymns of praise and thanksgiving to the True God this weekend!

Devotion Ecclesiastes 1:9-11   Announcements Sunday School and Bible Class Ladies Auxiliary Alumni Day  Invite a Friend to Church Midweek Lent Service Church Choir Men's Breakfast Ladies Bible Study Church Cleanup Day Communion Anchored in Hope Craft du Jour Board of Education Meeting Cemetery Cleanup Day Holy Week (April 13-20)   Prayer List  Pastor John Hein Pastor Tim Wheaton Jim Lien Lilia Howley Ethan Kranz Nila Strege Mrs. Hart and Mr. Wheaton Earthquake in Myanmar Family of Pastor Palangyos   Hymn: TLH 430 “What Is the World to Me?”

This weekend we are studying a hymn by Lutheran Pastor, Johnann Mentzer. Like Gerhardt whom we studied last week, Mentzer lived about 100 years after Luther and in a very difficult time, politically and religiously. Like Gerhardt, Mentzer was also familiar with suffering and tragedy. Yet, his faith in the Triune God and the joy which God's work for him instilled, shines through in his hymns. This hymn is no exception. Originally it included 15 stanzas, ten of which are included in our hymnal, but in two different hymns (TLH 30 and 243).   This hymn of praise is addressed to the Triune God (this is why it is found in the Trinity section of our hymnal), which can be seen in the reference to the Father (verse 2), the Savior Jesus (verse 3), and the Holy Spirit (verse 5). The words of this hymn are based in part on Jesus' words to the demonic, Legion after He delivered the man from the oppression of those evil spirits: “Return to your own house, and tell what great things God has done for you.” Then we hear the man's joyful response: "And he went his way and proclaimed throughout the whole city what great things Jesus had done for him" (Luke 8:39).  This hymn highlights the blessings which God has richly bestowed on us. He is our Creator and Preserver who is our "Guardian kind and tender." He is our Redeemer whose compassion led Him to come "down to ransom me" and "brought me from bondage" though the suffering (keenest woe) He endured on our behalf. He is our Sanctifier, Who gives "me among Thy saints a place" through the faith He works in our hearts, and gives us the power to live lives of good works to His glory.  All of this moves the Christian, the one who has come to know God's love which is shown in all these ways, to "be filled with gladness" even in the face of trouble and trial in this life.  Join us this weekend as we sing our praises to the Triune God for all the great things He has done for me! May the LORD bless your joyful worship this weekend!

Devotion Ecclesiastes 1:4-8   Announcements Sunday School and Bible Class Arts Camp Ambassadors Athletics Forum Women's Book Club Board of Elders Midweek Lent Service Ladies Auxiliary Church Choir Ladies Bible Study Alumni Day  Invite a Friend to Church Anchored in Hope Church Cleanup Day Cemetery Cleanup Day Easter Flowers   Prayer List  Pastor John Hein Pastor Tim Wheaton Jim Lien Lilia Howley Ethan Kranz Nila Strege General Sickness Mission in Kenya   Hymn: TLH 402 “O God, Forsake Me Not”

This weekend we are studying a hymn by Lutheran Pastor, Paul Gerhardt. Gerhardt lived about 100 years after Luther and in a very difficult time, politically and religiously. The Thirty Years War rages. Religious turmoil created havoc. He was familiar with persecution and tragedy. Three children died in infancy as well as a son and his wife in later years. He was forced to conform to false teaching or leave his call as pastor. His church and home were destroyed by war. But in all of this, Gerhardt remained confident of the Lord's power and Christ's victory over sin, death and every enemy he might face. This hymn was based on the Apostle Paul's words to the Romans: "What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? Who shall bring a charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies. Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written: “For Your sake we are killed all day long; We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.” Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:31-39)  The hymn highlights the truth that God's love for us is sure because it is seen in the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. God is also more powerful than anything we will face in this life. And if God loves us so much that He gave His Son into death for us, what won't He do for us, that is for our ultimate good? When you face challenges and loss in this life, look to Jesus and His cross. See the love of Jesus which is greater than any enemy we might face. Be assured of God's love and His power over death, sin, and Satan as well! Join us this weekend as gather to express our joy for that Love of God which surpasses all our understanding! May the LORD bless your joyful proclamation of God's love for you in Jesus this weekend!

Devotion Ecclesiastes 1:1-3   Announcements Sunday School and Bible Class Red Cross Blood Drive Grade School Basketball Tournament Winter Sports Awards Women's Study Guild Midweek Lent Service Church Choir Ladies Bible Study Arts Camp Anchored in Hope Ambassadors College Bible Study Immanuel Membership Information Form Women's Book Club Ladies Auxiliary   Prayer List  Pastor John Hein Pastor Tim Wheaton Jim Lien Lilia Howley Ethan Kranz Samantha and Lenora Clobes Margaret Schreyer Church and School Support Staff Mission in Mexico   Hymn: TLH 588 “I Would Not Live Alway”

The hymn, Just as I am, is one of the most familiar and recognizable hymn in Christianity. It was written by Charlotte Elliot, and joined to the tune Woodworth by William Bradbury, which is a beautiful match.  While the hymn never mentions Jesus by name, the entire hymn is a prayer to Him, the one who is the "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world" (John 1:29).  The hymn highlights the basic Christian doctrine salvation by Grace in the blood of Jesus. It highlights our (human beings) utter depravity and inability to save ourselves. Instead, salvation for our sin is found outside of ourselves, and only in the person of Jesus, whose "blood was shed for me" and is able to "cleanse each spot." The hymn is anchored in the promise of Jesus found in John 6:37: “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out.” Jesus has accomplished salvation for sinners by His life and death. Salvation is sure. He invites us to come and receive His gift of grace. "All things are ready. Come to the wedding" (Matthew 22:4). Join us this weekend as gather to worship that Lamb of God who has made us His own. Join your voice with that of your fellow believers in Jesus in thankfulness for all He has done for you! May the LORD bless our worship of Jesus, the world's only Savior, this weekend!

Devotion 2 Thessalonians 3:13-18   Announcements Sunday School and Bible Class Congregational Meeting Midweek Lent Service Church Choir Red Cross Blood Drive Grade School Basketball Tournament Ladies Bible Study Anchored in Hope   Prayer List  Pastor John Hein Pastor Tim Wheaton Jim Lien Lilia Howley Jean Moeri Board of Elders Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo   Hymn: TLH 605 "The World Is Very Evil"  

The hymn, All Hail the Power of Jesus Name, has been called "the most inspiring and triumphant hymn in the English language" and "the National Anthem of Christianity." It was written by Edward Perronet in 1779 in England. The hymn highlights the praise and honor that Jesus deserves from all of His creation for the work of salvation that He accomplished through the cross. The words of the Apostle Paul in Philippians 2:9-11 serve as the basis for the theme of the hymn: "Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." While this hymn does not specifically point to the work of Jesus that is our focus during the season of Lent, it does reminds us of the joy that is ours because of "Him who saves you by His grace," and the praise He deserves because of that work of grace.  Join us for worship this weekend as join our voices to praise the name of Jesus because, as Peter proclaimed: “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).  May the LORD bless tune your lips to praise the name of Jesus in our worship this weekend!

Devotion 2 Thessalonians 3:6-12   Announcements Sunday School and Bible Class Ash Wednesday Service Church Choir Ladies Bible Study Women's Bible Study Anchored in Hope Church Council Congregational Meeting Basketball Tournaments Midweek Lent Service Red Cross Blood Drive   Prayer List  Pastor John Hein Pastor Tim Wheaton Jim Lien Lilia Howley Betty Wolle Nelly Edwards Ruth Mueller Wisdom in Land Purchase Discussion Mission in Nigeria   Hymn: LSB 854 “Forth in Thy Name, O Lord I Go”  

Tomorrow we will enter the season of Lent with Ash Wednesday service. This begins a 40 day journey of solemn reflection, not only on all that Jesus suffered, but also on the seriousness of our sin, which caused Jesus' suffering and death.  The 17th century hymn by Sigismund von Birken, Jesus I will ponder now, is an especially fitting hymn to begin our reflection. It is the first hymn in the Lenten section in our hymnal for a reason! This hymn is a prayer to Jesus with requests for Him to send the Spirit to bless our time of meditation in the coming weeks. We pray that He would consider the depth of His love for us as seen in all that He willingly suffered. We pray that He would help us to see the magnitude and seriousness of our personal sins, which were the cause of His death. We pray that He would give us strength to respond to His love with love for Him and others with a new life in word and action.  Yes, Jesus was "delivered to the Gentiles... mocked and insulted and spit upon..." (Luke 18:33). Peter writes: "He Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed" (1 Peter 2:18).  Join us for worship on Ash Wednesday as contemplate the mystery of God's salvation in Christ. Contemplate your sin and Jesus full sacrifice for them. Pray for the the Spirit to bless your contemplation of God's great love for you!

This weekend we end of the Gesima Sundays and prepare to enter the season of Lent. Lent points us to the Love of God which is revealed in His work of salvation in the work of Jesus. It is fitting as we prepare to focus on that salvation that we reflect on the great LOVE of God which was caused our salvation.  The hymn that will be the focus of our service this weekend is the hymn "Love Divine, all Love Excelling" by Charles Wesley. Wesley grew up in the Anglican church but founded what we know today as the Methodist Church. Their focus was on Bible study and the work of God the Holy Spirit who brings us to faith, which we can see come out in this hymn. The hymn is addressed to Jesus, the "Love Divine" with a prayer that He would continue His work of salvation, begun at the cross, in us through the Holy Spirit. It reminds us that God work is not completed when we are brought to faith, but continues on throughout our lives, until we are called out of this life to our home of heaven. This hymn highlights all the way through the work of God's love for mankind. While it doesn't specifically mention our sin, it show our utter weakness and inability to save ourselves. It is God's love -- and it alone -- that accomplishes our redemption and sanctification. Join us as we study this hymn about the love of God shows in both Christ's redemption and the Spirit's work of sanctification. Rejoice in that perfect LOVE of God!

Devotion 2 Thessalonians 3:1-5   Announcements Sunday School and Bible Class Women's Study Guild Craft du Jour Women Who Hike Ladies Bible Study Women's Bible Study Anchored in Hope Basketball Tournaments Ash Wednesday Soup Supper Communion Opportunities Red Cross Blood Drive   Prayer List  Pastor John Hein Pastor Tim Wheaton Jim Lien Lilia Howley Bernice Geiger Mission in Liberia   Hymn 494 “Awake, Thou Spirit, Who Didst Fire”  

This week we study the hymn "May God Bestow on Us His Grace" (Hymn 500 in The Lutheran Hymnal), written by Martin Luther in the 1524.     This hymn is a poetic version of Psalm 67 which is often called the Mission Psalm. This hymn, like Psalm 67 is a prayer to God, that God would bless His people and that they in turn would be a witness to the unbelieving world around them. This is a beautiful and very applicable prayer for us in our world still today as fewer people in our lives are Christian then ever before. We are surrounded by opportunities to be a witness to the Savior of all people to the people around us.   This hymn highlights several important truths. First, all of our blessings, both physical and spiritual come from God. He is the giver of all things, and those blessings are to be used for our good, but also for the good of those around us and to God's glory. Second, God's Means of Grace -- the Gospel in Word and Sacrament - are the means by which He gives us His spiritual blessings, which include bringing us to faith, keeping us in the faith, forgives us our sins, and brings us to heaven. When we separate ourselves from His Means of Grace we separate ourselves from God and from His blessings, to our spiritual harm. This hymn is a prayer that God would bless us through His Word and Sacrament and through them equip us to be faithful witness of Jesus and His blessings to the world around us that "the ends of the earth shall fear Him" (Psalm 67:7). As Luther says: "Let all the world praise Him alone; Let solemn awe possess us." May the LORD create such solemn awe in each of us through the hearing of His Holy Word! Join us as we study this hymn which is a fitting and beneficial prayer for us to pray still today!

Devotion 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17   Announcements Sunday School and Bible Class Church Council Ambassadors Women's Study Guild Ladies Bible Study Craft du Jour Women Who Hike Ash Wednesday Red Cross Blood Drive   Prayer List  Pastor John Hein Pastor Tim Wheaton Jim Lien Lilia Howley College Age Students Mission in India   Hymn 376 “Rock of Ages” 

This weekend we enter into a short season between Epiphany and Lent called the Gesima Sundays. These names of these three weeks roughly count down the days until the celebration of Jesus' resurrection. On the first of these Sundays, Septuagesima (70 days), we reflect on our guilt and unworthiness before God and His mercy in giving us what we do not deserve. The hymn that will be the focus of our service this weekend is the great reformation hymn by Paul Speratus "Salvation unto Us has Come." This hymn was written and included in the first Lutheran Hymnal published in 1523. It is a beautiful declaration of the sinner's salvation by Grace, through Faith, and in Christ Jesus, and powerfully reveals that we cannot be saved by our own works or efforts. This truth was particularly true in the 1500's in contrast to the false teaching of salvation by works as taught in Roman Catholicism, but it is just as needed today. The religions of the world that many people are confronted by today all teach salvation by works, and even many Christian denominations fall into the error of emphasizing man's works over God's grace. The rich Scriptural truths proclaimed in this hymn are as needed today as they were 500 years ago! In addition, these powerful words are combined with a powerful tune which matches its joy and confidence in Christ's work for us. Join us as we study this hymn about our inability to save ourselves and the joy and comfort of knowing that Jesus has made the "full atonement" for our sins by taking on our flesh and giving His life as the ransom to set us free.

Devotion 2 Thessalonians 2:13-15   Announcements Sunday School and Bible Class Ladies Bible Study Anchored in Hope Support Group ERC Women's Bible Study Church Council Ambassadors 3rd Sunday Communion Women's Study Guild Women Who Hike Ash Wednesday   Prayer List  Pastor John Hein Pastor Tim Wheaton Jim Lien Lilia Howley Margaret Fraze Jeff Strand Parents of Children Mission in the Philippines https://missionaryohlmann.blogspot.com/    Common Christian Q&A  Is it true that the King James Bible was written by a king? I have a coworker who won't believe anything written by a king. What do I say to that?   Hymn 260 “O Lord, Look Down from Heaven, Behold”

Epiphany is an often overlooked season of the church year. It is sandwiched between Christmas and Lent, two of the most familiar seasons of the church year. Epiphany concludes with the Transfiguration of Jesus, which we will be celebrating this weekend. This is fitting, first because the Transfiguration is a magnificent proof that Jesus is the Son of God, and second because we are told that following the Transfiguration, Jesus begins to “set His face to go to Jerusalem” (Luke 9:51). In other words, Transfiguration Sunday is an appropriate “bridge” connecting Epiphany to the season of Lent.  Little is known about the hymn “Oh, Wondrous Type! Oh, Vision Fair” other than it was originally composed in Latin and used in the Old Sarum Rite from Salisbury, England in 1495. It was translated from Latin into English by John Mason Neale, the prolific 19th-century translator of Greek and Latin hymns. Sadly, only four stanzas of this hymn are included in Worship Supplement 2000. We will include a fifth stanza (found in other hymnals) which is a fitting doxology to the reminder that Jesus is True God and the Savior of all people. This hymn reminds us that the glory which was revealed in Jesus on the mountain is a glory that those who believe in Him will also share when Jesus returns on the last day. Because of the work which Jesus came to accomplish for sinful mankind, we will, by God's grace, experience that glory when we see Him face to face in heaven. This truth causes us, God's people, to raise our voices in joyful strains of prayer and praise in worship. Thanks be to God! Join us as we study this hymn about the revelation of Jesus as true God, and the assurance of being partakers of that glory in heaven because of Jesus life and death as our substitute.

Devotion 2 Thessalonians 2:3-12   Announcements Sunday School and Bible Class Reorganization Meeting Annual Voters Meeting Part 2 Outreach Meeting Women's Bible Study Anchored in Hope Support Group Ladies' Bible Study ERC College Bible Study Ambassadors Women Who Hike   Prayer List  Pastor John Hein Pastor Tim Wheaton Jim Lien Lilia Howley Margaret Fraze Jeff Strand Time and Talent Offerings Missionary Peter Evensen   Hymn 260 “O Lord, Look Down from Heaven, Behold”

We continue in the season of Epiphany where the LORD reveals to sinners that Jesus is the Savior that God promised us and that we desperately need. This week we study the hymn "Be Still, My Soul" (Hymn 651 in The Lutheran Hymnal), written by Catharina von Schlegel in the eighteenth century. She wrote this as a poem that was later set to music, first to one melody and finally in 1927 was joined to the tune Finlandia, making a beautiful pair. This is the only hymn in our hymnal that was written by her.   The hymn is based on Psalm 46:10-11: "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth! The LORD of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge." The hymn contemplates the troubles that we face in this world of sin and that Jesus calls His followers to "deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow" Him (Matthew 16:24).  Even though we face many temptations, trials of faith, and loss, the hymnwriter directs our hearts and minds to the promises and power of our God and Savior. While this is not directly an Epiphany hymn, this is especially fitting in the Epiphany season. Jesus shows His power over sickness, nature, the demons, and even over death. Through all of this and more, Jesus is revealed to us as the true God and as the world's promised Savior.  The final two verses comfort us in the loss of Christian loved ones, reminding us that Jesus has conquered death, once and for all. He "Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord" (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). With all these promises from our Savior Jesus, we can say: "Be still, my soul" trusting in Jesus who is with us and who is our Refuge and Strength! Join us as we study this hymn which comforts us in the trouble and sorrow of this earthly life through the assurance of Jesus and His work for us!

Devotion 2 Thessalonians 2:1-2 Announcements Sunday School and Bible Class  Whitewater Retreat Women's Bible study tonight 5-6pm in church basement Time and Talents this weekend (also Meet and Greet) Reorganization meeting (Monday, Feb 3rd at 6:30) Voters Meeting (Monday, Feb 3rd) Ambassadors (Wed, Feb 12th 7-9pm) Women who hike (February 23 @ 2:30pm) Prayer List  Pastor John Hein Pastor Tim Wheaton Jim Lien Lilia Howley (going in for tests next week) Becca Schaller Margaret Fraze Jeff Strand Scott Osbourne Eli Baumann Margaret Schreyer - Transesophageal Echocardiogram so the Drs. can look at her heart valve. Judy Mielke John McLaren Elected Church leaders  Zach L. (Pres), Karl F. (VP), Alan O. (Sec), Doug S. (FSec), Craig S. (Treas), Kevin, Michael, Anthony, Mark, Daniel (Elders), Paul (Deacon), Elijah (Ed), Scott K. (Property). Missionary Bruce Naumann  Hymn of the Day Hymn 616 - "Forever with the Lord"

As we continue on in the season of Epiphany we reflect more on the revelation of Jesus who is the foundation of our faith. This week we study the hymn "I Know My Faith Is Founded" (Hymn 381 in The Lutheran Hymnal), written by Erdmann Neumeister in the early 1700's. Neumeister was born and educated in Germany and was a pastor, teacher and writer of over 650 hymns. His hymns are simple, yet rich and Scriptural.    This hymn highlights the truth that not all faith is equal. While people say "It doesn't matter what you believe in, as long as you believe in something," Scripture says different. Not everything is worth putting your faith or trust in. The world puts forth other foundations on which people are to build their faith, but those foundation do not compare to Jesus. The Christian faith defies worldly wisdom, but is sure and certain.  This hymn includes a prayer to God to increase our faith, especially as we face trouble in this life. The devil seeks to use trials and adversities to divide us from Christ. But God promises to be with us and give the strength that we need. The final verse continues the prayer, this time for God to held us serve Him in this life, until He calls us home to Heaven. Heaven is God's ultimate goal for us. Jesus has won our salvation. We have been "begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus" (1 Peter 1:4). In death we receive "the end of our faith -- the salvation of our souls" (1 Peter 1:9). Join us as we study this hymn which reminds us about the importance of faith's foundation. There is no firmer foundation for sinners than Jesus and His cross for us! On Him my faith is founded! 

Devotion 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12     Announcements Sunday School and Bible Class Outdoor Adventure Day Cancelled Annual Meeting Dan Hanel Victory Service Whitewater Retreat Women's Bible Study Reorganization Meeting College Bible Study   Prayer List  Pastor John Hein Pastor Tim Wheaton Jim Lien Lilia Howley Dan Hanel Family Rebecca Schaller Jeff Strand Eli Baumann Judy Mielke John McLaren Bible Study Leaders Missionary Todd Ohlmann   Common Christian Q&A  How do we know that the Bible really is the Word of God and not some other “sacred book”?   Hymn 421 “Come, Follow Me, the Savior Spake”

We continue in the season of Epiphany this week, which highlights that the Gentiles are invited into God's kingdom. This week we study the Epiphany hymn "Hail, Thou Source of Every Blessing" (Hymn 129 in The Lutheran Hymnal), written by Basil Woodd around 1810. Basil was born and educated in England and was ordained as a pastor. This is the only hymn in our hymnal that was written by him.   This hymn uses the account of the Wise Men who came to visit the young child Jesus as the basis for teaching us an important truth. The Gospel is intended for all people, and we, like the Wise Men, receive salvation through Jesus and are able to come and worship Him and bring their gifts of thanksgiving to Him.  This hymn reminds us that God does not discriminate or withhold salvation based on gender, race, age or economic status. Paul writes: "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise" (Galatians 3:28-29). Salvation is for you! Thanks be to God! Join us as we study this hymn about Jesus' work to save all people, and the joy we have in worship and in service to Him!

Devotion 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10   Announcements Sunday School and Bible Class ERC Meeting Church Council Voters Meeting - January 20 - 7pm Outdoor Adventure Day Whitewater Retreat College Bible Study   Prayer List  Pastor John Hein Pastor Tim Wheaton Jim Lien Margaret Fraze Dan Hanel Rebecca Schaller Lilia Howley Jeff Strand Scott Osbourne Eli Baumann Shut-ins Mission in Bangladesh   Hymn 604 “Great God, What do I See and Hear?”

On January 6 the church has celebrated Epiphany, which brings the Christmas season to a close. Epiphany has been called "Christmas for the Gentiles" since the theme of Epiphany is about the Gospel (and salvation) being intended for all people. We see this in the account of the visit of the Wise Men, which is usually the Gospel reading for the festival of Epiphany. This week we study the Epiphany hymn "Arise and Shine in Splendor" (Hymn 126 in The Lutheran Hymnal), written by Martin Opitz in the seventeenth century. Martin was born and educated in Germany and was a professor of philosophy and literature. This is the only hymn in our hymnal that was written by him.   You might notice something strange about this hymn. Although this is an Epiphany hymn which is about the revelation of God's glory in the person of Jesus, the name "Jesus" is not mentioned once in this hymn. Nor will you find the term Christ, Savior or any other familiar description for Jesus. The reason for this is that the hymn is based on Isaiah 60:1-6 which states: "Arise, shine; For your light has come! And the glory of the LORD is risen upon you. For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, And deep darkness the people; But the LORD will arise over you, And His glory will be seen upon you. The Gentiles shall come to your light, And kings to the brightness of your rising." This hymn is written from the perspective of an Old Testament believer. The Old Testament believers would not have known the name "Jesus." This hymn is about the general work of the LORD (the Triune God) to shine the LIGHT of salvation in a world that was dying in DARKNESS. The language of this hymn is colorful and brings out the Biblical contrast between light and darkness and God's love of all people and desire that ALL people come to faith and are saved from sin and death.  This hymn is not as Christological as many of our other hymns, but uses descriptive language to describe how God has given us all a natural knowledge that He exists, so that we might seek and find the true God in His revealed Word. It also reminds us of the joy that is ours when we come to know Jesus as our Savior. People of all "nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues" (Revelation 7:10) will be brought to faith and share in the Savior's joys in heaven. Thanks be to God! Join us as we study this hymn about God's desire to save all people, Jew and Gentile alike, and the joy that is ours when we are brought into His Light of salvation!

Devotion 2 Thessalonians 1:1-4   Announcements Sunday School and Bible Class College Bible Study Church Council Voters Meeting - January 20 - 7pm   Prayer List  Pastor John Hein Pastor Tim Wheaton Margaret Fraze Families who have lost loved ones this past year Mission Helper Trip to Nepal   Common Christian Q&A  Isn't Christmas based on a pagan holiday?    Hymn 417 “How Can I Thank Thee, Lord”

This week we study the hymn "Jesus, Thy Blood and Righteousness" (Hymn 371 in The Lutheran Hymnal), written by Nicolaus Ludwig Zinzendorf in 1739. While Zinzendorf was a prolific hymn writer, penning over 2,000 hymns, we only have two of his hymns in The Lutheran Hymnal (this hymn and hymn 410). This is by far the greatest hymn that he wrote. In this hymn, Zinzendorf points us to the all-sufficient work of Jesus which is for ALL people. This hymn originally had 33 verses, and was cut down to 24 verses when it was translated into English by John Wesley. The seven verses that we have in our hymnal are theologically rich presentations on the Atonement of Jesus for sinners, and the doctrine of Universal Justification (God declared all people not guilty through the work of Jesus). This doctrine of Universal Justification is in contrast to the false teaching of Limited Atonement, which teaches that Jesus only died for the sins of SOME people, not ALL people. The Apostle Paul clearly teaches Universal Justification writing: "God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation" (2 Corinthians 5:19 see also 2 Peter 2:1).  Throughout this hymn Zinzendorf points the sinner not to him or herself, but to Jesus, about whom Peter proclaims: "you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot. He indeed was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you who through Him believe in God, who raised Him from the dead and gave Him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God" (1 Peter 1:18-21). Thanks be to God! May the LORD bless your worship this weekend!

Devotion 1 Thessalonians 5:25-28   Announcements Sunday School and Bible Class Communion this Weekend School Resumes Outreach Committee Meeting   Prayer List  Pastor John Hein Pastor Tim Wheaton Family of Marlene Hanel Margaret Fraze CLC Leaders Mission in India   Hymn 460 "Behold the Sure Foundation-Stone”