A Life of Obedience to God – December 23, 2020

“How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. For no word from God will ever fail.” “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her.
Luke 1:34-38

A Life of Obedience to God


Daily Devotion – December 23, 2020

Devotion based on Luke 1:34-38

See series: Devotions

Can you imagine what it was like for Mary at that moment? A young, soon-to-be-married woman discovers that she is going to have a baby. Her life is about to get turned upside down. Hundreds of questions and dozens of doubts and fears must swirl around in her head. How will Joseph, her husband-to-be, accept the news? Will her child be considered illegitimate? Would anyone ever believe the truth—that her baby was a miracle of the Holy Spirit? Why was she chosen for this? How could such a thing even be possible?

In reply to her questions, the angel pointed her to God’s grace, God’s power, and God’s promises. And that is what her faith clung to. Mary didn’t ask for time to pray or to speak with her fiancé before responding to God’s messenger. She simply said, “I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled.”

A life of obedience to God means taking him at his word, relinquishing control of one’s own life, and trusting that God will make good on his many promises. All too often, we rebel against that thought. But Mary’s son, Jesus, obeyed it perfectly. Although he is the true Son of God, he is also the Lord’s perfect servant. Jesus submitted his will to that of God his Father, serving willingly and faithfully as our Savior and substitute on the cross. His death and resurrection guarantee that our sin of rebellion has been forgiven. All who repent and believe are declared to be God’s holy children. May his Word to us be fulfilled!

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, let me serve you even as you have served me. Amen.

DailyCreative Commons License Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Bulletin – December 25

Returning to the Manger

A Service for Christmas Day

Away in a manger, no crib for a bed,

The little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head.

The stars in the sky looked down where he lay;

The little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay. CW Hymn 68

December 25, 2020

9 a.m. St. John’s

Pastor’s Greeting

Opening Hymn, CW36, “A Great and Mighty Wonder”,   v. 1-2 sung by soloist                                                                      

A great and mighty wonder,

a glorious mystery:            

The virgin bears an Infant

who veils his deity.           

Repeat the hymn again:

“To God on high be glory       

And peace on earth to men!”

The Word becomes incarnate

and yet remains on high

And cherubim sing anthems

to shepherds from the sky

Repeat the hymn again:

“To God on high be glory       

And peace on earth to men!”

The Invocation                                                               

P:  In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

C:  Amen

Rise for the Confession and Absolution

P:  We confess our sin.     

C:  Lord, we come before you in prayer today, asking for forgiveness.  We have not loved as we ought to love, we have not given as we ought to give, and we have fallen short of the mark truly being your obedient sons and daughters.  We recognize our sins, and in this moment of silence, we privately remember our shortcomings.

(Silence for reflection and self-examination.)   

P:  God, our Heavenly Father, hears the prayers of his children and answers those prayers.  Our prayer for forgiveness is answered in the person of Jesus Christ, his Son, who died for our sins that we might have a new life in him.  To those who believe his Word of truth, he gives power to be the people of God.  Praise god for his gift of love to us!

Please be seated.

The Lighting of the Advent wreath

Spoken responsively by the pastor and the congregation:

P:  Darkness cannot overcome the light.  Five flames remind us that the light of the Christ Child has been revealed to defeat the deepest depths of darkness and bring life and immortality to light.  The 1st candle of purple is lit to remind us of prophecy, hope and a promise of old kept.

(Light the 1st candle)

C:  The prophets foretold a Messiah to come.  People waited in expectation.  Hope was fulfilled.

P:   The 2nd candle of purple is lit to remind us of Bethlehem and the peace that passes understanding.  

(Light the 2nd candle)

C:  The Prince of Peace was promised.  The Child was peace in human form.  Christ is our peace fulfilled.    P:  The 3rd candle—the pink one—is lit to remind us of the shepherds and the joyous message they received.  

(Light the 3rd candle)                                              

C:  Angels sang, “Gloria.”  Shepherds ran to tell others.  Joy was fulfilled.

P:  Light the 4th purple candle for peace.

(Light the 4th candle.)

C  The peace placed in a manger in the person of the Christ Child brings comfort and joy.

P: One white candle shining brightly in the center is lit to remind us of Christ, the Light of the World, who was sent to earth because God loved us.

(Light the center candle)

C:  God poured out his heart in the form of his Son.  The Child was born of a woman.  Love was fulfilled.

Song of Reflection, Hymn 61, “Hark!  The Herald Angels Sing,” verses 1 & 2 sung by soloist    

Hark! The herald angels sing,

“Glory to the newborn King;


Peace on earth and mercy mild,

God and sinners reconciled!”


Joyful, all ye nations, rise;

join the triumph of the skies;


With the angelic hosts proclaim,

“Christ is born in Bethlehem!”


Hark! The herald angels sing,

“Glory to the newborn King!”

Christ, by highest heav’n adored,

Christ the everlasting Lord!


Late in time behold him come,

offspring of the virgin’s womb.


Veiled in flesh the Godhead see,

hail the incarnate Deity!


Pleased as man with us to dwell,

Jesus, our Immanuel!


Hark! The herald angels sing,

“Glory to the newborn King!”

Prayer of the Day                                                            

P:  We glorify you this day, Lord Jesus, and praise you for your birth in a manger so long ago.  Help us keep returning to your manger today and every day in our minds that we might remember the miracle of what happened there.  For through your manger birth, you declared to all the world that you were coming in humility and poverty that we might be rich through your salvation.  Show us day by day how to serve others in humility that you might be glorified through our actions.  Allow us to see in your manger scene that we have a God who loves the lowly and makes his power known through the least and the lost and the little.  Open our eyes to the saving message that you came as one of us that we might dwell with you in the highest places of heaven forevermore through your sinless life and sacrificial death.  Let your Gospel be born in us anew every morning.  Amen.

The Old Testament Reading, Isaiah 52:7-10

How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns.” Listen!  Your watchmen–lift up their voices; together they shout for joy.  When the LORD returns to Zion, they will see it with their own eyes.  Burst into songs of joy together, you ruins of Jerusalem, for LORD has comforted his people, he has redeemed Jerusalem. The LORD will lay bare his holy arm in the sight of all nations, and all the ends of the earth will see the salvation of our God.

The Epistle Reading, Colossians 3:12-17

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the LORD forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the LORD Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Hymn of Preparation, Hymn 76, “Jesus! Name of Wondrous Love,” verse 1 sung by soloist

Jesus! Name of wondrous love!  

Name all other names above! 

Unto which must every knee

bow in deep humility.

Rise for the Gospel Reading, John 1:1-18

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. There was a man sent from God whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light. The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God. The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John testified concerning him. He cried out, saying, “This is the one I spoke about when I said, ‘He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’ ”) Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known.

Please be seated.

Sermon Hymn, Hymn 68, “Away in a Manger,”

verses 1-3 sung by soloist

Away in a manger, no crib for a bed,

the little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head. 

The stars in the bright sky looked down where he lay,

the little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay.

The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes,

but little Lord Jesus, no crying he makes. 

I love you, Lord Jesus; look down from the sky,

and stay by my side until morning is nigh.

Be near me, Lord Jesus; I ask you to stay

close by me forever and love me, I pray. 

Bless all the dear children in your tender care,

and take us to heaven to live with you there.

Sermonette:   “God Made a Way in a Manger”    Luke 2:8-12                                                               

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the LORD appeared to them, and the glory of the LORD shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the LORD. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” 

Hymn of Response, Hymn 58, “See in Yonder Manger Low”, v. 1,3,4 sung by soloist

See in yonder manger low,

born for us on earth below, 

See—the gentle Lamb appears,

promised from eternal years.  

Hail the ever blessed morn;

hail redemption’s happy dawn;

Sing through all Jerusalem,

“Christ is born in Bethlehem.”

Sacred Infant, all divine,

what a tender love was thine,

thus to come from highest bliss

down to such a world as this. 

Hail the ever blessed morn;

hail redemption’s happy dawn;

sing through all Jerusalem,

“Christ is born in Bethlehem!”

Teach, oh, teach us, holy Child,

by thy face so meek and mild,

teach us to resemble thee

in thy sweet humility.  

Hail the ever blessed morn;

hail redemption’s happy dawn;

sing through all Jerusalem,

“Christ is born in Bethlehem!”

Please stand.

Prayers                                                                           

Dear Christ Child, born in a manger, we celebrate your birth today and rejoice with the shepherds who returned from your manger glorifying and praising God for all that they had heard and seen as it had been told to them.  Help us return to our lives after Christmas with the same joy and exuberance to praise and glorify you in all we say and do.  Help us treat one another with kindness and love.  Grant us an attitude of gratitude.  Let us embrace everyone as dear ones whom you came to save.  Rid our lives of the dirt and filth of sin and help us be cleansed with your forgiveness by the power of your cross.  Help us be just as forgiving of the sins of others that they, too, might experience the new life you supply through your mercy.  Be with those who are sick or in pain or mourning the loss of loved ones, and grant healing and comfort to them all.  Bless us, we pray, as we marvel at the miracle of your birth this day and every day, O Holy Child of Bethlehem.  Be born in us today.  Amen.    

    

And in Your name we pray together:

The Lord’s Prayer:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name,

thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever.  Amen

The Benediction

Go forth in joy.  Love and serve one another.  Be a faithful witness to God in the world and live in such a way that the gracious Spirit of Jesus may be with you in all that you do and say. 

The Lord bless you and keep you.  The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you.  The Lord look upon you with favor and give you + peace.  Amen

Please be seated.

Closing Hymn,  Hymn 62, “Joy to the World”, 

v. 1, 4 sung by soloist

Joy to the world!

The Lord is come;

let earth receive her King;

Let every heart prepare him room,

And heaven and nature sing,

and heaven and nature sing,

And heaven, and heaven, and nature sing.

He rules the world with truth and grace,

and makes the nations prove

The glories of his righteousness,

And wonders of his love,

and wonders of his love,

And wonders, wonders, of his love.

Service by Jeff Shanks with revisions.  ©2017 Creative Communications for the Parish, a division of Bayard, Inc. 1564 Fencorp Dr., Fenton, MO.  All rights reserved.  Copyright released for use of material for worship.

What Is So Great About Christmas – December 22, 2020

You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.
Luke 1:31-33

What Is So Great About Christmas


Daily Devotion – December 22, 2020

Devotion based on Luke 1:31-33

See series: Devotions

Is Christmas really worth all the bother? All the tree lighting, carol singing, gift-giving, and countless other traditions unique to each family? Around the world, Christians have developed an amazing variety of ways to celebrate Christmas in their own languages and cultures. What’s so great about Christmas that it should inspire people to such elaborate and creative celebrations? Isn’t it just about the birth of a baby?

Yes, but what a birth! And what a baby! There would be reason enough for us to sit in wonder each year at this time simply marveling at the miracle of the virgin birth. That baby boy born to Mary in Bethlehem is God himself, “the Son of the Most High,” whose coming was foretold by prophets in ancient times and whose arrival was announced by an angel from heaven. This child was not only a direct descendant of the great King David—he is the proper heir to an even higher throne, the eternal kingdom of God, his Father. Earthly kingdoms rise and fall, even our own nation one day, but Jesus Christ will rule forever.

How do you properly celebrate the birth of the greatest, most highly anticipated person to ever walk on this earth? What if I told you that this great man willingly allowed himself to be humiliated before men so that you and I could be glorified before God? He suffered the shame of the cross so that we might be honored with God’s grace and the gift of forgiveness. And after rising from death of his own power, Jesus now watches over you, showering you with his love and blessings, and working out all things so that you might share in his never-ending glory. What’s so great about Christmas? It’s the birth of our great Christ and King!

Prayer: (Christian Worship: A Lutheran Hymnal – 55)
Yea, Lord, we greet Thee,
Born this happy morning,
Jesus, to Thee be
all glory given;
Son of the Father,
Now in flesh appearing;
O come, let us adore Him,
Christ, the Lord. Amen.

DailyCreative Commons License Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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You Have Found Favor With God – December 21, 2020

The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God.”
Luke 1:28-30

You Have Found Favor With God


Daily Devotion – December 21, 2020

Devotion based on Luke 1:28-30

See series: Devotions

In your inbox is an email with the subject line: “Congratulations! You have been chosen to receive special attention.” By now, you’ve learned enough of how the internet works that you might immediately mark the message as junk mail without even opening it. But what if you noticed that it was sent by the Internal Revenue Service? You wouldn’t throw that one away! You might even become nervous, wondering why the government had singled you out, fearing that you might somehow be in trouble.

A young woman named Mary wasn’t sure how to react when an emissary from God, a holy angel, appeared to her saying, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” Why would God single her out for attention? She knew that there was nothing about her personally that merited any preferential treatment. Like others in the Scriptures who suddenly found themselves in the presence of God or one of his angels, at that moment, Mary was no doubt painfully aware of her own unworthiness, her personal failings, and the many reasons why a holy God might be displeased with her. But the angel assured her that she had nothing to worry about. She had found favor with God.

Whenever we open our Bibles or go to church, we find ourselves in the presence of God, who speaks through his Word and who knows how unworthy we are. Maybe you have been trying to avoid that. But don’t be afraid; listen to what he has to say. You will also find favor with him! He is a gracious God who lifts up the lowly and has mercy on the undeserving. He sent his Son Jesus, born of Mary, to shower us all with his grace. Do not be afraid of God turning his gaze toward you. Rather listen closely to his message of peace and forgiveness in Jesus announced to you again this Christmas.

Prayer:
Lord, calm my heart and prepare it to listen to your message of peace and joy in Jesus. Amen.

DailyCreative Commons License Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Christ is All We Need for Christmas – December 20, 2020

The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the LORD’S favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor.
Isaiah 61:1-3

Christ is All We Need for Christmas


Daily Devotion – December 20, 2020

Devotion based on Isaiah 61:1-3

See series: Devotions

This is the season when people typically make a list of the things they would like for Christmas gifts. Children, especially, can usually come up with a pretty long list.

Despite all the gift-giving that goes on at Christmas time, the greatest gift we receive is a Savior who was born in a manger. There is nothing we need more than that. Just to prove that point, look at our Bible reading for today.

Jesus stood up in the synagogue at Nazareth and read this Old Testament passage. After rolling up the scroll, he said, “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing” (Luke 4: 21). Jesus confirmed that he is the one to give all the blessings of this Isaiah passage. And what great blessings they are! The good news of God’s love and forgiveness is proclaimed to poor sinners like us. When our hearts are broken by all the heartbreakers of this life, Jesus is there to bind them up with his peace. Instead of feeling trapped by our sin and death, Jesus sets us free to live powerful lives of forgiveness and hope. He makes us strong oaks to stand in the face of troubles. He puts a crown on our heads and declares that we are children of the King. He clothes us in his righteousness to stand before our God and the world as a display of God’s splendor.

What’s on your Christmas list? It is comforting to know that, even if we were to receive none of the gifts on our list, we would still have all we need because we have Jesus, our Savior.

Prayer:
Jesus, thank you for being the only gift I could ever really need. Amen.

DailyCreative Commons License Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Perfect Christmas Preparation – December 19, 2020

Now the Pharisees who had been sent questioned [John], “Why then do you baptize if you are not the Messiah, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” “I baptize with water,” John replied, “but among you stands one you do not know. He is the one who comes after me, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.”
John 1:24-27

Perfect Christmas Preparation


Daily Devotion – December 19, 2020

Devotion based on John 1:24-27

See series: Devotions

For most of us, Christmas preparations are in full swing. Although preparing for Christmas can be hectic, it can also be an exciting and enjoyable task—smelling Christmas cookies as you bake them, trimming the tree, smiling as you find just the right gift for that special someone.

The Lord knows all about preparing. Over and over in the Old Testament, he prepared his people for the eventual arrival of their deliverer—the one he would send to rescue them from their sins and restore their relationship with their Maker. Just before Jesus began preaching and teaching, the Lord sent a special man to prepare people for Jesus’ arrival on the scene. We know this man as John the Baptist.

The reason John was such an expert at preparing people for Jesus is that John had a proper perspective on things. John said that he was not even worthy to untie Jesus’ sandals. This was not false modesty. John knew exactly where he stood with God and knew he had offended God with his sins. John knew that he desperately needed someone to rescue him from those sins. So, when Jesus arrived, John was relieved and thankful and thrilled.

Do you want to be properly prepared to celebrate Christmas? Baking cookies, trimming the tree, and shopping till you drop are all fine and fun. But, to be TRULY prepared, adopt the proper perspective of John. See yourself as the unworthy sinner you are. See your Savior as the one who loves you still. Then, like John, you will be relieved, thankful, and thrilled when you see your Savior arrive.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, I know that, like John, I am not worthy to even untie your sandals. But I also know that this is why you were born in Bethlehem. I know that through your perfect life and innocent death, you have washed away my sins and made me worthy in God’s sight. Thank you. Amen.

DailyCreative Commons License Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Bulletin – December 23 & 24

St. John’s Ev. Lutheran School & Little Lambs

Children’s Christmas Worship Service

December 23, 2020

Emmanuel 6:30pm

December 24, 2020

St. John’s 4:00pm

The Old, Old Story

WELCOME BY PASTOR

“OH, HOLY NIGHT”                                                   Sung by soloist Lucas Stelter

RESPONSIVE PSALM SELECTIONS

M: I will praise you, O Lord, with all my heart;

C: I will tell of all your wonders.

M: Many, O Lord my God, are the wonders you have done.  The things you planned for us no one can recount to you;

C: Were I to speak and tell of them they would be too many to declare.

M: Come and listen all you who fear God;

C: Let me tell you what he has done for me.

M: I will utter hidden things, things from of old – what we have heard and known, what our fathers have told us.

C: We will not hide them from their children; we will tell the next generation.

M: So the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born,

C: And they in turn would tell their children.

A CHRISTMAS PRAYER

Gracious Lord, be with our worship today as we set aside the commercial distractions this Christmas and focus on the real reason for our celebration. Warm our hearts with the joy, comfort and realization that as you came as a Man, you lived a perfect life so you could die in our place and take away the consequences of sin which we so much deserve. This Christmas joy is ours today and throughout the year. Shine in our hearts once again as we enjoy hearing the wonderful old, old story. We pray in the name of the One who was born in the Bethlehem manger, our Lord, our Savior, and our Brother.  Amen

M:How many times have we repeated the story or account of the birth of our Savior? Better yet, how many times have you heard or read that story in your lifetime? Luke 2 is certainly one of the most often read or memorized chapters of the Bible. We love to hear the story of Jesus’ birth. It never grows old. Rather it remains fresh and enjoyable for all of us. Our children will again retell the story of Christmas but in a very different way. It will be told using the words of a poem that was written over 150 years ago. Perhaps some of you will recognize some of the stanzas because a few have been put to music. But I want the children to tell you the old, old story.

RECITATIONS: GRADE 6-8

The Story Wanted

POEMS: GRADE 6-8

“ON CHRISTMAS NIGHT”                                               Played by school Chimes

POEMS: GRADES 3-5

The Story Told

PART 1: The Story Begins

POEMS: GRADES 3-5

RECITATION: GRADES 6-8

RECITATION: GRADES 3-5

RECITATION: GRADES 6-8

RECITATION: GRADES 3-5

POEMS: GRADES 3-5

 “WHAT CHILD IS THIS” 67 v. 1-2                                                  Sung by soloist

The Story Told

PART 2: The Story Fulfilled

RECITATION: GRADES 3-5

RECITATION: GRADES 6-8

RECITATION: GRADES 3-5

POEMS: GRADES 3-5

“AWAY IN A MANGER”                                                                    Sung by soloist

RECITATION: GRADES 3-5

RECITATION: LITTLE LAMBS-KINDERGARTEN

RECITATION: GRADES 1-2

RECITATION: GRADES 3-5

RECITATION : LITTLE LAMBS-KINDERGARTEN

RECITATION: GRADES 6-8

“SILENT NIGHT”                                                                          Played by Chimes

The Story Told

PART 3: The Story Seen

RECITATION: GRADES 6-8

RECITATION: GRADES 1-2

POEMS: GRADES 6-8

RECITATION: GRADES 3-5

POEMS: GRADES 6-8

“PEACE CAME TO EARTH” 707                                                      Sung by soloist

The Story Told

PART 4: The Story of Victory

RECITATION: GRADES 3-5

RECITATION : LITTLE LAMBS-KINDERGARTEN

POEMS: GRADES 3-5

The Story Told

PART 5: The Story for Us

RECITATION: GRADES 6-8

POEMS: GRADES 6-8

POEM: GRADES 1-2

“I LOVE TO TELL THE STORY”     Duet by Lucas Stelter and James Wachholz

PRAYERS

BENEDICTION

ANNOUNCEMENTS

“SILENT NIGHT”                             Duet by Lucas Stelter and James Wachholz

Scripture taken from THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ®. Copyright©

1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™. Used by permission of Zondervan

© 2020 Kremer Resources LLC

Menomonee Falls, WI

Bulletin – December 20

The 4th Sunday of Advent

 The Son of David Reigns Forever

St. John’s & Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Churches

Montello & Mecan, WI

December 19, 2020

4:30p.m. St. John’s

December 20, 2020

8a.m. Emmanuel

10a.m. St. John’s

St. John’s  Ev. Lutheran Church
313 East Montello St. Montello, WI 53949

Emmanuel  Ev. Lutheran Church
W1568 Evergreen Lane Montello, WI 53949    
WELCOME TO OUR CHURCH We extend a warm welcome to everyone viewing our recorded worship service today. The bulletin includes the complete order of service, hymns, psalm, Bible readings and announcements. For those without internet access to our website stjohnsmontello.org, DVDs and written sermons plus the bulletin are available.  Just phone secretary Ciara Neuhauser at the church office (608) 297-2866 or contact Pastor Zietlow (talk or text) at (608) 408-7830.

ONLINE SERVICE/PRINTED BULLETIN OR SPLIT SCREEN If you’re watching our worship services on-line and want to also follow along with the bulletin, you can just print the bulletin out and watch it together with the service. Or you can do a “split screen.” This means you would click the menu button on the top right corner of your screen, click “new window” and then open a second window to our website and recorded service page. Click “bulletin can be accessed here” and now you have two windows. Make each window half-size, so that you have a split screen–one side for the service and one side for the bulletin.

GOD’S WORD FOR TODAY Today’s theme: 4th Sunday of Advent: God Makes the Impossible Happen We have many hopes and dreams in this world. Some even seem to have honorable motives. The Lord, though, steps in and outshines our plans with the miraculous. He sends his Son to earth in a miraculous way to set up an eternal kingdom. Then in an equally wondrous way, he draws us into that kingdom through the gospel and establishes our place in it.    

P R E P A R A T I O N   F O R   W O R S H I P

We prepare ourselves to worship the one Savior God by expressing our humble repentance, offering our fervent prayers and singing our thankfulness of praise.

Please note: Worship Update Plans (Updated Nov.. 2020. bulletin page 18) Beginning  (11/15) at the 10:00am St. John’s service,  the 55+ age restriction ended . Worshipers are kindly asked to maintain social distancing, refrain from singing, and wear masks that cover both mouth and nose.  Thank you for your consideration.

PASTOR’S WELCOME, ANNOUNCEMENTS, AND PRAYER BEFORE WORSHIP

M: Stir up your power, O Lord, and come.  Make us ready for the celebration of your birth, that we may receive you in joy and serve you always.  Through your Word, Lord, come to us.  Erase our debt of sin, and fill our hearts with peace, joy, and the desire to live for you and tell others about you.  Bless our worship today and every day.  Amen.

LIGHTING OF THE ADVENT CANDLES

M: We light four Advent candles remembering Jesus, the Son of God and Son of Mary. He came to share our humanity.

C:  We remember Jesus whose name means Savior. He came to save his people from their sins.

M: We hear his call to give him a place in our hearts.

C:  We light four Advent candles as a sign of our joy and hope.

M: Come, Lord Jesus, be our guest.

C:  Through your Word and Spirit may our souls be blessed

Four Advent candles are lit.

OPENING HYMN 23                                      Oh, Come, Oh, Come, Emmanuel

*Sung by soloist.

 

PRAYER OF THE DAY

P: Stir up our hearts, O Lord, and come. Take away the burden of our sins and make us ready for the celebration of your birth, that we may receive you in joy and serve you always; for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Please be seated.

T H E   W O R D

The Lord Jesus speaks to us in Scripture reading, preaching and song.

OLD TESTAMENT LESSON                                                           2 Samuel 7:8-16

Summary: God’s promise to David

“Now then, tell my servant David, `This is what the LORD Almighty says: I took you from the pasture and from following the flock to be ruler over my people Israel.  I have been with you wherever you have gone, and I have cut off all your enemies from before you.  Now I will make your name great, like the names of the greatest men of the earth.  And I will provide a place for my people Israel and will plant them so that they can have a home of their own and no longer be disturbed.  Wicked people will not oppress them anymore, as they did at the beginning and have done ever since the time I appointed leaders over my people Israel.  I will also give you rest from all your enemies.

The LORD declares to you that the LORD himself will establish a house for you: When your days are over and you rest with your fathers, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, who will come from your own body, and I will establish his kingdom.  He is the one who will build a house for my Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever.  I will be his father, and he will be my son.  When he does wrong, I will punish him with the rod of men, with floggings inflicted by men.  But my love will never be taken away from him, as I took it away from Saul, whom I removed from before you. Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever.'”

PSALM OF THE DAY 89

*For your personal devotion at home.

Refrain

At the works of your hands, O Lord, I lift up my voice in song;

I sing for joy.

I will sing of the LORD’S great love forever;*

I will make your faithfulness known through all generations.

I will declare that your love stands firm forever,*

that you established your faithfulness in heaven itself.

The heavens praise your wonders, O LORD,*

your faithfulness too, in the assembly of the holy ones.

Refrain

O LORD God Almighty, who is like you?*

You are mighty, O LORD, and your faithfulness surrounds you.

Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you,*

who walk in the light of your presence, O LORD.

They rejoice in your name all day long;*

they exult in your righteousness.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son*

and to the Holy Spirit,

as it was in the beginning,*

is now, and will be forever. Amen.

Refrain

EPISTLE LESSON                                                                          Romans 16:25-27

Summary: To God be glory forever

Now to him who is able to establish you by my gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past, but now revealed and made known through the prophetic writings by the command of the eternal God, so that all nations might believe and obey him– to the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen.

VERSE OF THE DAY                                                                          Matthew 1:23

P: Alleluia! The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel. Alleluia.

Please stand.

GOSPEL LESSON                                        Luke 1:26-38 (today’s sermon text)

Summary: The angel appears to Mary

In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David.  The virgin’s name was Mary.  The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored!  The Lord is with you.”

Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God.  You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus.  He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High.  The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end.”

“How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?”

The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you.  So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be barren is in her sixth month.  For nothing is impossible with God.”

“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered.  “May it be to me as you have said.”  Then the angel left her.

Please be seated.

HYMN 36                                                       A Great and Mighty Wonder                                      

*Sung by soloist.

SERMONETTE                                                                                      Luke 1: 26-38

“Nothing Is Impossible With God!”

  1. Only God could plan my salvation
  2. Only God could love someone like me

APOSTLES’ CREED   

*For your personal devotion at home.

I believe in God, the Father almighty, maker or heaven and earth.

I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into hell. The third day he rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of God the Father almighty. From there he will come to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Christian Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

Please stand.

ADVENT PRAYER & INTERCESSORY PRAYERS        

*Read by responsively. Intercessory prayers listed on page 11.

LORD’S PRAYER

*Spoken by congregation.

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.

CLOSING PRAYER

P: Blessed Lord, you have given us your Holy Scriptures for our learning.  May we so hear them, read, learn, and take them to heart, that being strengthened and comforted by your holy Word, we may cling to the blessed hope of everlasting life, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

BLESSING                                                                                                                   

P: Brothers and sisters, go in peace. Live in harmony with one another. Serve the Lord with gladness.

The Lord bless you and keep you.

The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you.

Then Lord look on you with favor and + give you peace. Amen.

Be seated.

CLOSING HYMN 41                                        Let All Together Praise Our God

*Sung by soloist.

Songs are reprinted under OneLicense.net #A-722228. Scripture is taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version ® (NIV ®). Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of International Bible Society.

†A N N O U N C E M E N T S

December 20 – December 26

Sun.8:00 a.m.Emmanuel Worship
 10:00 a.m.St. John’s Worship
Mon.  
Tues.  
Wed.6:00 p.m.Caroling at Emmanuel
 6:30 p.m.Emmanuel Children’s Christmas Worship (recording)
Thurs. CHRISTMAS EVE
  St. John’s School Christmas break begins (12/24-1/3)
 3:30 p.m.Caroling at St. John’s
 4:00 p.m.St. John’s Christmas Eve Children’s Worship (recording)
Fri. CHRISTMAS DAY
 9:00 a.m.St. John’s Christmas Day Worship
Sat. No Worship
  Next week’s theme:-  December 27, 2020 1st Sunday of Christmas: “As Members of God’s Family, We Seek to Do His Will”  
8:00 a.m.   Emmanuel Worship with communion
10:00 a.m.St. John’s Worship with communion
Church News  

INTERCESSORY PRAYERS (read by pastor) – For those hospitalized, ill, shut-in and facing trials: Jim & Caryl Bassett, Pat Bornick, Glenn Buchholz, Bob Buehrens, Darlene Burrough (Judy Fandrey’s niece), Ben Coyle, Gene & Sharon Crook, Liola Crown, Reinold Eckelberg, Ken Elmer, Mike Farrell, Kelleen Grucza (Judy Fandrey’s daughter), Louise Hillmer, Jerry & Darlene Hunter (Bonnie Chapman’s parents), Wesley & brother Xzander Jahr, Ellie Kendall, Geri Kerl, Julie Klawitter, Betty Kozlowski, Robert Lederer (Jackie & Jeanne Buchholz’ father), Jenell Mann, Lilly Mann, Delvin Mittelsteadt, Barbara Petrick, Al Pompa (Pete & Lucy Laun’s brother-in-law), Karen Radke, LuAnn Reber, Jeff Reimer, David Scharf, Roxanne Schmanke, Doris Smith, Carol Stempniak, Jennifer Strauss, Dixie Wagner, John Wildt, Harold & brother Paul Wuerch – (added this week (Ben Coyle, Lilly Mann) – For military families  

CHRISTMAS CAROLING For those of you wanting to participate in Christmas caroling, we will be meeting outside at 6:00pm before the December 23 Emmanuel service and at 3:30pm before the December 24 St. John’s service.  

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Volunteers are being sought to assist with delivery of weekly worship DVDs to our shut in members. For details or to volunteer to assist, please contact either James Wachholz 608-369-4006 or Gary Wegner 920-295-3456.  

CAMP PHILLIP ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP DUES St. John’s membership payment is due! If you would like to donate, please see the “Camp Phillip” free will offering jar located in the church entry way. You can make checks payable to Camp Phillip.  Thank you!  

HOLY COMMUNION Communion is offered at both Emmanuel and St. John’s on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month and at St. John’s on the Saturdays  following those Sundays sing   “continuous flow” and “pew communion” distribution methods. Private communion by request is also available from Pastor Zietlow or an Elder at church or at your home.

CHRISTMAS FOR KIDS Thank you to everyone who put in the time and effort for this year’s event. What a wonderful thing for our kids and families to enjoy during these challenging times. “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven”. Matthew 5:14-16

 

Church News cont’d…  

GET FREE MEDICATION, FRIDGE, AND GUN LOCKS! St. John’s is partnering with Marquette County Healthy Communities Healthy Youth (HCHY) in their fall campaign emphasizing the need to secure what can be dangerous to children and others. To assist families, HCHY will have available, at no charge, medication lock boxes, refrigerator locks (where alcohol is stored in quantities), and gun locks. At St. John’s we have one of each of the three types of locks available for you to view. You may sign up for whatever you can use. Delivery will be at church. These items are available to all Marquette County residents at no charge, so spread the word. Members and friends can request these items. Let’s do all we can to keep our children from harm’s way. Sign up in the linkway, with Ciara or using the Google form. https://forms.gle/CpDT6awLesJRKbw26  

A NOTE FROM LADIES AID We will no longer be selling cards due to the pandemic. The health and safety of everyone is very important to us.  God bless you all during this Christmas season!  

 

School news  

UPDATED SCHOOL COVID POLICY If a student or teacher tests positive, the entire school will move to two weeks virtual education. When parents who have not been in the school test positive, the school leadership will assess absences due to illness or quarantine as necessary for the health and safety of our student body and families. If a classroom or the entire school needs to go virtual, it will be for a period of two weeks.  

FREE MEAL SIGNUP FOR SCHOOL FAMILIES ONLY Hello School Families! Please find the link on our school Facebook page to sign up for free meals for next week 12/22. Pick up is on Tuesday from 4:30-5:30p at the public school. Even if we are physically in school, you may still signup. Breakfast and lunch included!            


Little Lambs:
K-2nd grade: Vacuum cleaner $140.00
3rd-5th grade:
6th-8th grade: Tuition assistance

President Mark Schroeder’s message: Peace on earth—but what kind?

The year was 1914. World War I had thrown the continent of Europe into a conflict that would last for four years and kill or wound more than 25 million people. After a rapid German push into France, the advance stalled, and the armies of Germany and Great Britain dug in facing each other. From their cold and muddy trenches on either side of the line, soldiers on both sides could hear their enemies talking. They could see the smoke of the campfires and smell each other’s cooking.

Then, in the middle of the horror of a bloody war, something very unusual happened. It was Christmas Eve. The guns and artillery on both sides had fallen strangely quiet. At 8:30 p.m., from the other side of the no man’s land separating the two armies, the British soldiers heard something. It was singing. German soldiers were singing “Stille Nacht.” The British soldiers responded by singing “The First Noel.” Then, cautiously, a British private climbed out of his trench and crawled through the barbed wire. He was met by a German scout who offered him whiskey and cigars. Before long, soldiers along the entire front were mingling with their enemies, singing Christmas carols together, sharing gifts of chocolate and tea, and even participating in a pick-up game of soccer. (The Germans won the game by a score of 3-2; English soldiers claim that an English chaplain serving as the referee missed a foul that would have taken the winning goal away.)

It was a poignant moment in history—a moment of peace and friendship in a time of war between enemies. But the peace enjoyed that evening would not last. As dusk arrived on Christmas Day, one German soldier said to his new English friend, “Today we have peace. Tomorrow, you fight for your country and I fight for mine.” There would be no further moments of peace until the end of the war in 1918.

We long for peace—especially in a year like 2020. We pray for peace in our cities. We hope for peace in our polarized political arena. We desire peace between racial and ethnic groups. We yearn for peace between nations. It’s not surprising that so many long for peace during the Christmas season. “Peace on earth!” is printed on Christmas cards, featured in songs, and spoken in Christmas greetings.

But when the angels proclaimed that the newborn Savior would bring peace on earth, they were not talking about the end of war, calm in the streets, or civility in politics. All those kinds of peace are certainly desirable and are blessings when they happen, but that peace is fragile and uncertain, sure to be fleeting and temporary.

The peace proclaimed by the angels outside of Bethlehem is completely different.

They announced a peace between God and his rebellious people that cures troubled consciences and removes guilt. They spoke of a peace that was not temporary but a spiritual peace that would last for all eternity. They spoke of a peace that was not the result of skillful negotiations or careful compromise but was rather accomplished when, 33 years later, the baby born in Bethlehem would say from the cross with the voice of total victory, “It is finished.”

So, sing with the angels this Christmas. Praise God for giving us the kind of peace that the Christ Child brought to you and all people.

Can you imagine?

An angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:20-21, NIV)

Imagine the range of emotions and thoughts that went through Joseph’s mind. As you think about Christmas this year, put yourself in the shoes of those who were there. Consider Joseph as he saw Mary after she returned from visiting Elizabeth. She had been gone for a few months and when she came back, she was visibly pregnant. Joseph knew it was not his child! This was not right, but being an honorable man who cared for Mary, he was going to quietly divorce her. BUT then, the angel came to him in a dream explaining that this was from God.

Picture Joseph going to Mary and telling her about having an angel come to him. “Me, too!” Mary may have responded. “I was so scared, but the angel told me, ‘Do not be afraid!’” Think of her telling about Elizabeth, silent Zechariah, and John the Baptist leaping in Elizabeth’s womb! I would encourage you to read through Luke chapter 1 and 2. As you read the accounts that Luke records, consider the words of Mary, Elizabeth, and Zechariah. Put yourself in their shoes, visualize what the shepherds saw, heard, and witnessed. Think about the words Zechariah and Mary use in their songs. These words give such comfort: forgiveness, peace, and mercy. Zechariah sang: “to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins.” (Luke 1:77).

Jesus did come, as the angel told Joseph, “to save his people from their sins.” You are part of the world that Jesus came to save! You are part of the “generation to generation” (Luke 1:50) that know sin and darkness. Jesus came to give you light, forgiveness, and peace! In Jesus, the words of the angel mean just as much to us, “Do not be afraid!”

Mary and Joseph were human beings just like you and me. They witnessed God fulfilling his promises, all the miracles and amazing wonders. Jesus was true God, coming down to save his people to give them the knowledge of salvation! This HIS-story is your story of salvation so that one day you too will witness with your eyes Jesus in heaven with all the angels. He gives us his Word! The angel even told Mary, “For nothing will be impossible for God.” (Luke 1:37 EHV). The Lord goes with you, just as he did with Mary and Joseph! Do not be afraid, rather rejoice – your Savior has come, my friend!

This salvation story fills us with peace and gives us a voice to share. God used the angels to proclaim this message of peace then but has called us to proclaim his message now. God help us share this message with all that are imprisoned by their sins and guilt. Jesus has come to save people from their sins. We have this message that truly does the impossible and opens hearts and eyes to know and see Jesus. What a gift! A gift that keeps on giving!

Have a blessed Christmas, and know your new year is in Jesus’ hands.

-Pastor Darren Green, chairman, WELS Prison Ministry Committee

God Makes the Impossible Happen So We Can be Part of His Kingdom

The Fourth Sunday in Advent – Series B

God’s Word for Today

We have a lot of hopes and dreams in this world.  Some even seem to have an honorable motive.   Yet the Lord is the one who steps in and outshines our plans with the miraculous.  He sends his Son to earth in a miraculous way to set up an eternal kingdom.  Then in a miraculous way he  draws us into that kingdom through the gospel and establishes our place in it.

First Lesson (2 Samuel 7:8-16)

  1. What does God promise for David?

2. What house would the Lord establish for David?

Second Lesson (Romans 16:25-27)

3. How does God establish us in faith?

4. Who gets the praise for our stability in faith?

Gospel (Luke 1:26-38)

5. How was it that Mary found favor with God?

6. What simple phrase answered Mary’s puzzled inquiry about having a child while she is still a virgin?

Answers:

  1. David had wanted to build a permanent house (temple) for his God.  The Lord told him someone else would build the house of the Lord.  Yet God was going to make David’s name great and make the conditions ideal for his people.  He accomplished that in Jesus, a “son” of David.
  2. But this prophecy goes far beyond Solomon to the one who would establish an eternal kingdom.  Jesus (Luke 1:29-33) would be the cornerstone of a spiritual house- a people in which God dwells with his Spirit – the people of God (Eph 2:19-22) who will rule eternally with Christ.
  3. God uses the simple gospel message, the proclamation of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus, to create faith and obedience in people.  Do you keep the connection strong by continual growth in that word?
  4. So often the emphasis is placed on a person’s wise choice to follow Jesus.  But that leaks some of the praise away from the one to whom all credit is due.  It is the only wise God who gets the glory for setting up our salvation through Jesus and changing hearts to faith through the gospel.   That will be the main theme of the singing in heaven.
  5. Often people place the focus on virtues of Mary, but God’s favor starts with his own loving plans and his unmerited choice. His favor focused on this one individual through whom the Holy Spirit would provide this miraculous birth.  This happened so God’s favor could in turn rest on everyone because of that child.
  6. The angel helped her put aside simple, experiential logic and replace it with faith in the promise:  “For nothing is impossible with God.”  How important for us to realize this in the season that challenges the world with things too hard and awesome to explain – the birth of Jesus.

St. John’s Lutheran Church, Montello

&

Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Mecan

Worship Updates – November 2020

WORSHIP SERVICES

  • Saturdays @ 4:30 pm. Everyone is welcome to attend!
  • Sunday @ 8:00 am  Emmanuel sanctuary (Emmanuel members)
  • Sunday @ 10:00 amSt. John’s. Beginning  (11/15) the 55+ age restriction ended. ALL are welcome.
  • Online worship services continue and are found at  www.stjohnsmontello.org 

Providing a safe worship experience is a high priority for the leaders in our congregations. Christ’s love also compels us to consider the needs of others before our own. In humility we want to protect the health and safety of our bodies and of others. Because the virus continues to spread, and because of the science regarding singing and speaking, the following policies will be continued:

  • Please use the hand sanitizer upon arrival at the worship service.
  • Masks will be worn at all indoor services. Masks are available at both churches.
  • Designated seating will be provided indoors to provide for social distancing.
  • Services will be shortened to a length of approximately 40 minutes. 
  • The congregation is asked to not sing. A soloist will sing the hymns and any liturgical responses.
  • Continuous communion will be practiced on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays/Sundays of each month. Family units are encouraged to commune together. 
  • The congregations should exit the sanctuary from the back at the end of the service, taking all belongings including the bulletin along with them. 
  • The sanctuary will be cleaned and sanitized between services.

**We will abide by any state or local mandates that may change any of these policies

As we hold firmly to the truths of scripture, we know that God continues to keep his promises to us. He has promised the wonderful spiritual blessings of forgiveness, life, and salvation. He has not, however, promised that things will always remain the same. In the words of our synod president, Mark Schroeder, “we recommit ourselves–as individuals, as congregations, and as a synod–to the mission that God has called us to carry out, trusting that he will bless us in that work.” Let us work together as we move forward as a congregation. Let us help, support, and encourage each other as we gather around God’s Word. 

Question or Concerns?  Contact your Elders or Pastor

Emmanuel Elders:

Darrell Buchholz (608) 215-7871, Wayne Stelter (608) 494-0068

St. John’s Elders:

Jerre Duerr (608) 697-8706, Jay Eisermann (608) 297-8171,

James Wachholz (608) 369-4006, Pastor Pete Zietlow (608) 408-7830

AttendanceEmmanuelSt. John’s
12-9??
12-12 12
12-133863
St. John’s Altar Committee December 2020Diane Eisermann
&
Dolores Cotte
ST. JOHN’S & EMMANUEL HOLIDAY WORSHIP SCHEDULE 2020   December 23     Emmanuel Children’s Christmas     Emmanuel 6:30 p.m. December 24     School Christmas Eve     St. John’s 4:00 p.m.
December 25     Christmas Day     St. John’s 9:00 a.m.
December 31     New Years Eve.    Emmanuel 3:30 p.m.    

*No age restrictions at holidays services.
*Regular service times continue:     
Saturday St. John’s 4:30 p.m. – All are welcome (Please note: Dec. 26 & Jan. 2 – No worship)     
Sunday Emmanuel 8:00 a.m. – Emmanuel members only     
St. John’s 10:00 a.m. – All are welcome, no age restrictions.  
*COVID-19 safety guidelines continue…please wear masks, practice social distancing & use sanitizer.    
●●●
Welcome To Our Visitors!
Please Sign Our Guest Register
Find & Like us on Facebook Visit our website:  www.stjohnsmontello.org
Pastor Peter Zietlow: (608) 408-7830, E-mail: zietlowPL6@hotmail.com Little Lambs Director & Teacher Mrs. Lynn Sellnow: 616-826-0816
K, 1st & 2nd Grade Teacher Ms. Shelley Myers: 920-285-7554
3rd-5th Grade Teacher Ms. Katlynn Tindall: 262-352-7021
Principal & 6th – 8th Grade Teacher Mr. Larry Sellnow:  616-822-6689, Email: principal@stjohnsmontello.org
Church & School Secretary/Office Ciara Neuhauser: (608) 297-2866 Church & School Address/Mail: 313 E Montello St, Montello, WI 53949 Church & School E-mail: scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org
Altar Lady: Elaine Kelm: (920) 344-0025  
●●●

The Real Star – December 18, 2020

“I baptize with water,” John replied, “but among you stands one you do not know. He is the one who comes after me, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.”
John 1:26,27

The Real Star


Daily Devotion – December 18, 2020

Devotion based on John 1:26,27

See series: Devotions

With these words, John the Baptist takes his place next to Dr. Watson, Ed McMahon, Art Garfunkel, and Scottie Pippen in the society of famous “second fiddles.” Dr. Watson didn’t solve the case. He marveled at the wits of Sherlock Holmes and then complimented the detective on a job well done. Ed McMahon didn’t sit behind the desk on The Tonight Show. He introduced Johnny Carson and then provided a hearty “laugh track” to the host’s comedic efforts.

Some of those famous second fiddles weren’t always so happy to play the supporting role. But John the Baptist was more than okay with it. In fact, he knew it was his divinely-given role in life to point ahead to the one who was coming after him. Before he was even born, the angel Gabriel told John’s father, “He will go on before the Lord . . . to make ready a people prepared for the Lord” (Luke 1:17).

And when he grew up and started preaching and started to gain a bit of a following, even then John remembered that it wasn’t about him, it was about Jesus. “The one who comes after me,” John says, “He is the one you’re looking for. He’s the star of this show.”

What an example for us to imitate! What a blessing to play “second fiddle” to Jesus! It was the purpose and goal of John the Baptist’s life. It’s the purpose of our lives as well. Aware of our mountain of sins, aware of our spectacular failures in obedience, we echo John’s words, “I am not worthy.” But Jesus took our unworthiness to the cross. And now, in joyful thanks, we become John the Baptists—if not in appearance or mannerisms, at least in message and attitude. Our goal each day is to give Jesus glory—in how we interact with the people around us and use our time and abilities. It’s not about us. It’s all about Jesus.

Prayer:
Lord and King, forgive me for those times when I am overcome by pride, arrogance, or selfish ambition. Lead me to follow John’s example of humility and to glorify you all my life. Amen.

DailyCreative Commons License Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Prepare the Way – December 17, 2020

Finally they said, “Who are you? . . . John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet, “I am the voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way for the Lord.’”
John 1:22,23

Prepare the Way


Daily Devotion – December 17, 2020

Devotion based on John 1:22,23

See series: Devotions

In the ancient world, VIPs would send their heralds ahead of them to make straight the way—that is, to ensure the safety and travel ability of the road.

John the Baptist’s mission was to go ahead of Jesus, preparing the way and proclaiming the King’s imminent arrival. He was to blast through sinful pride and self-righteousness, to urge people to repent of their materialism and overconfidence, their lack of priorities and spiritual apathy, to get them ready and eager for the arrival of the One who could save them.

How do we “make straight the way for the Lord” today? By looking closely at our hearts and identifying those sins that clutter them. Are we giving certain sins a comfortable place in our hearts? Are we making excuses instead of getting tough on bad behavior? The Baptist calls out, “Repent!” “Make straight the way!”

Prepared hearts are hearts that daily loathe the sin within us and celebrate the arrival of our Royal Deliverer from heaven. He comes to us time and again in his Word and sacraments, bringing gifts most valuable—forgiveness of sins and peace with God. And on the last day, he will come not in simple means, but in awesome power, riding on the clouds of heaven, bringing our ultimate deliverance. As you prepare for that day, hear and heed John’s clarion call: “Repent!” “Prepare!” “Make straight the way of the Lord!”

Prayer: (Christian Worship: A Lutheran Hymnal – 3)
Fling wide the portals of your heart, make it a temple set apart.
From earthly use for heaven’s employ, adorned with prayer and love and joy.
So shall your Sovereign enter in, and new and nobler life begin.
To God alone be praise for word and deed and grace! Amen.

DailyCreative Commons License Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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