September 2018 – St. John's Evangelical

Grace and Forgiveness – September 30, 2018

September 30, 2018 Kerry

“What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work today in the vineyard.’ ‘I will not,’ he answered, but later he changed his mind and went. Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, ‘I will, sir,’ but he did not go. Which of the two did what his father wanted?” “The first,” they answered.
Matthew 21:28-31a

Grace and Forgiveness

Daily Devotion – September 30, 2018

Devotion based on Matthew 21:28-31a

See series: Devotions

Jesus’ question was not hard to answer. Could it have been any simpler? Although the first son answered his father harshly and rudely, in the end he did what was asked. Although the words of the second son sounded sweet and polite, in the end he only paid lip service to his father.

It was meant to be an easy question with an obvious answer. But then Jesus transitioned to his true intent. The deeper spiritual point was meant to be just as clear to his hearers. That audience was made up of upstanding people, including the religious leaders of the day: Jesus said to them, “I tell you the truth, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you. For John came to you to show you the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him” (Matthew 21:31b-32).

The first son represented the openly sinful. They had turned away from God and his will. They had lived a life that was obviously contrary to the commands of God. But then John the Baptist came. He called out to sinners to turn from their sinful ways. He urged them to place their trust for forgiveness in a coming Savior. Many heard the message, believed it and lived!

The second son represented the outwardly righteous. They boasted about their relationship with God. They believed they had earned that relationship by who they were and the good they had done. But then John came. When he pointed out that they too were sinners who needed a Savior, they rejected his message and the Messiah (Jesus) who followed.

God the Father comes with this message today: “Go and work in the vineyard.” Jesus himself tells us that “the work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent” (John 6:29). Jesus was sent into this world as Savior of all. He lived, suffered, died, and rose again to redeem you and me and everyone else from the punishment of God that our sins had earned. Now, he calls on us to place our trust in his Son, Jesus Christ.

Have you lived an openly sinful life? Turn to Jesus and his promised forgiveness…and live! Do you place your confidence of a good relationship with God on the goodness that others can see in you? Listen to Jesus’ call today and turn from that misguided idea. Place your trust in the righteousness Jesus alone can give…and live!

Prayer:
Lord Jesus Christ, help me always to see my need for your grace and forgiveness. Help me always to turn to you in humble faith for the forgiveness of sins, righteousness, and life that you alone can give. Amen.

This devotion was selected from the Daily Devotion archive.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Humility – September 29, 2018

September 29, 2018 Kerry

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus.
Philippians 2:3-5

Humility

Daily Devotion – September 29, 2018

Devotion based on Philippians 2:3-5

See series: Devotions

These are words that burrow deep into the soul. Humility is not something that comes naturally to us. The three-year old who figures out how to tie his shoes runs to his mother with a pride-filled smile, directing her attention to his feet and his accomplishment. His greatest desire at that moment is to receive her praise. That desire for others to recognize our greatness and the grand things we have accomplished does not diminish with age.

Scripture does not just command humility, it gives us the ultimate example. Of all the people who have ever walked upon this planet Jesus certainly had every reason to think that he was better than everyone else. The fact is that he was. As true God and Creator of everything, the power, wisdom, glory, and authority that he had could not even be compared to that of the greatest ruler our world has ever seen.

Yet he did not pound his chest and stand on the highest mountain for all to see his greatness and praise him. His greatest goal was not for all people in the world to serve him, waiting on him hand and foot, and immediately providing for his every desire. Instead we are told that Jesus, “Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death–even death on a cross!” (Philippians 2:6-8).

Instead of looking to his own interests, Jesus was focused on yours. Setting aside his glory, he humbly entered into our world with one purpose: to sacrifice himself for you and pay the price for your sins. That meant humbling himself to the point of being publicly humiliated and executed, suffering the wrath of God for sins he never committed.

Thank God that Jesus showed such humility! In doing so, he not only provides us with an example, he saves us from our sinful lack of humility.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I struggle with humility. I long for the praise of others. I would rather have others serve me than give my life in service to others. Forgive me. Thank you for your love and humility. Thank you for your willingness to place the needs of others, my needs, above your own. Thank you for dying that I may live. Amen.

This devotion was selected from the Daily Devotion archive.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

BULLETIN- September 30, 2018 Branches Band Worship at Montello City Park

September 28, 2018 Kerry

St. John’s & Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Churches

Montello & Mecan, WI

Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS)

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September 30, 2018

Branches Band Worship at Montello City Park

Welcome Branches Band

Jesus said, “I am the vine, you are the branches…” (John 15:5) Branches Band, a Milwaukee-based music group, uses their love for music to identify the Savior of the world: Jesus! From ancient hymns to modern songs, from guitars and piano to percussion and vocal harmonies, the truth of God’s love and grace is at the root of the Branches Band ministry.

*AT 8:00AM EMMANUEL…

Sunday 8:00am:

Emmanuel Worship

with baptism

Sunday 10:00am:

Branches Band Worship

at City Park

Wednesday 6:30pm:

St. John’s Worship

_________________

THEME FOR TODAY:

The Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost:

Supplemental Readings

_____________________

GOD’S WORD FOR TODAY:

The gifts of God are so rich and varied that the devil uses that very generosity in God to stir up jealousy and envy. Expect it in others;’ find it yourself as well! That weakness makes it crystal clear that our need for a Savior is a constant one. It makes it equally clear that our struggle against our own flesh gives us much more difficulty and anguish than the hostility or the persecution from the world.

HYMN 298:1-2 “Dear Father, You Have Made Us All” (printed in hymnal, all sing)

HOLY BAPTISM LITURGY (hymnal page 12, read responsively)

HYMN 298:3-4 “Dear Father, You Have Made Us All” (printed in hymnal, all sing)

Service continues on page 4 with Invocation…

*AT 10:00AM CITY PARK WORSHIP…

OPENING HYMN

Praise to the Lord, the Almighty (CW 234 with Alleluia)

Branches Band will sing verses 1 and 4; the congregation will join on verses 2, 3, and 5

Emmanuel 8:00am service: congregation sings

Verse 1

Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation!

O my soul, praise him, for he is your health and salvation!

Let all who hear now to his temple draw near,

Joining in glad adoration!

Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

Verse 2

Praise to the Lord, who o’er all things is wondrously reigning

And, as on wings of an eagle, uplifting, sustaining.

Have you not seen all that is needful has been

Sent by his gracious ordaining?

Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

Verse 3

Praise to the Lord, who has fearfully, wondrously, made you,

Health has bestowed and, when heedlessly falling, has stayed you.

What need or grief ever has failed of relief?

Wings of his mercy did shade you.

Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

Verse 4

Praise to the Lord, who will prosper your work and defend you;

Surely his goodness and mercy shall daily attend you.

Ponder anew what the Almighty can do

As with his love he befriends you.

Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

Verse 5

Praise to the Lord! Oh, let all that is in me adore him!

All that has life and breath come now with praises before him!

Let the Amen sound from his people again;

Gladly forever adore him!

Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

(congregation rises)

INVOCATION

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

Congregation: Amen.

CONFESSION/ABSOLUTION

Responsive Scripture with “O Jesus, Lamb of God” (CW 27). Pastor may start speaking as soon as music begins.

Pastor: Dear friends, let us approach God with a true heart and confess our sins, asking him in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to forgive us.

Verse 1 (Branches Band/Emm. congregation)

O Jesus, Lamb of God, you are

My comfort and my guiding star;

I come, a sinner, trustingly

And bring my many sins with me.

Congregation: O Lord, do not rebuke me in your anger or discipline me in your wrath. My guilt has overwhelmed me like a burden too heavy to bear. I am bowed down and brought very low; I groan in anguish of heart. I confess my iniquity; I am troubled by my sin. O Lord, do not forsake me; be not far from me. Come quickly to help me, O Lord my Savior. (selected verses from Psalm 38)

Verse 2 (Branches Band/Emm. congregation)

O Lord, my sin indeed is great;

I groan beneath the dreadful weight.

Be merciful to me I pray;

Take guilt and punishment away.

SILENT CONFESSION

Verse 3 (Branches Band/Emm congregation)

Saint John the Baptist points to you

And bids me cast my sin on you,

For you have left your throne on high

To suffer for the world and die.

PASTOR (spoken when verse three complete): Because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive in Christ even when we were dead in transgressions – it is by grace you have been saved. In Jesus you have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace. (Ephesians 2:4-5 & 1:7)

Congregation: We have been brought from death to life. Sin shall not be our master, because we are not under law, but under grace. (Romans 6:13-14)

Verse 4 (congregation joins)

Help me to change my ways, O Lord,

And gladly to obey your Word.

While here I live, abide with me,

Then take me home eternally.

SALUTATION

Pastor: The Lord be with you.

Congregation: And also with you.

PRAYER OF THE DAY

(congregation is seated)

FIRST LESSON

Numbers 11:16, 24-26

The Lord said to Moses: “Bring me seventy of Israel’s elders who are known to you as leaders and officials among the people. Have them come to the tent of meeting that they may stand there with you.

So Moses went out and told the people what the Lord had said. He brought together seventy of their elders and had them stand around the tent. Then the Lord came down in the cloud and spoke with him, and he took some of the power of the Spirit that was on him and put it on the seventy elders. When the Spirit rested on them, they prophesied—but did not do so again.

However, two men, whose names were Eldad and Medad, had remained in the camp. They were listed among the elders, but did not go out to the tent. Yet the Spirit also rested on them, and they prophesied in the camp.

PSALM

Everything that Has Breath (Psalm 150, sung by Branches Band/Emm congregation)

SECOND LESSON

Philippians 1:12-18a

Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guardand to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.

It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.

Yes, and I will continue to rejoice.

SONG OF RESPONSE/CHILDREN’S MESSAGE (optional)

I Am a Light by Rachel Braun

Children are invited forward to learn and sing the song with Branches Band

I am a light; I am a light

I hold it up high, I hold it down low

I am a light wherever I go

I am a light; I am a light

My faith in God helps all to see

That Jesus is the light in me

Jesus is my Savior; he died and rose for me

I want to show my neighbor that Jesus set us free!

(congregation rises)

GOSPEL (today’s sermon text)

Mark 9:38-50

“Teacher,” said John, “we saw someone driving out demons in your name and we told him to stop, because he was not one of us.”

“Do not stop him,” Jesus said. “For no one who does a miracle in my name can in the next moment say anything bad about me,for whoever is not against us is for us. Truly I tell you, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to the Messiah will certainly not lose their reward.

Causing to Stumble

“If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them if a large millstone were hung around their neck and they were thrown into the sea. If your hand causes you to stumble, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life maimed than with two hands to go into hell, where the fire never goes out. And if your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life crippled than to have two feet and be thrown into hell. And if your eye causes you to stumble, pluck it out. It is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into hell, where “‘the worms that eat them do not die, and the fire is not quenched. Everyone will be salted with fire.

“Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can you make it salty again? Have salt among yourselves, and be at peace with each other.”

Pastor: This is the gospel of our Lord.

Congregation: Praise be to you, O Christ!

(congregation is seated)

HYMN OF THE DAY

Holy Spirit, Light Divine (CW 183)

Branches Band will sing verse 1; the congregation joins on the remaining verses

Emmanuel 8:00am service: congregation sings

Verse 1

Holy Spirit, Light divine,

Shine upon this heart of mine;

Chase the gloom of night away;

Turn the darkness into day.

Verse 2

Holy Spirit, Love divine,
Cleanse this guilty heart of mine;
In your mercy pity me;
From sin’s bondage set me free.

Verse 3

Holy Spirit, Joy divine,
Cheer this saddened heart of mine;
Fill me with your heav’nly peace;
Let it grow and still increase.

Verse 4

Holy Spirit, Pow’r divine,
Dwell within this heart of mine;
Cast down ev’ry idol throne;
Reign supreme and reign alone.

Verse 5

See, to you I give my heart;
Cleanse my life in ev’ry part;
Your own temple I would be
Now and for eternity.

$C:\Users\secretary\Downloads\Lord's Army.jpg$ SERMON

Mark 9:38-50

“Be All That You Can Be”

1. Humble

2. Salty

“Teacher,” said John, “we saw someone driving out demons in your name and we told him to stop, because he was not one of us.”

“Do not stop him,” Jesus said. “For no one who does a miracle in my name can in the next moment say anything bad about me, for whoever is not against us is for us. Truly I tell you, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to the Messiah will certainly not lose their reward.

“‘the worms that eat them do not die, and the fire is not quenched.’ Everyone will be salted with fire.

“Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can you make it salty again? Have salt among yourselves, and be at peace with each other.”

(congregation rises)

APOSTLES’ CREED

I believe in God, the Father almighty,

maker of 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.

(congregation is seated)

OFFERING

Branches Band will provide music during the offering

(congregation rises)

PRAYER FOR “BEFRIEND A MISSION” MONTH–SEPTEMBER (read by pastor)

INTERCESSORY PRAYERS

– For those hospitalized, ill, shut-in and facing trials: George Alexander, Natalie Allison (Isaac Emond’s friend), Marilyn Bredeson (Karin’s Stellick’s mother), David Broderick, Mike Brown, Alexandria Buehrens (Bob & Carolyn’s great granddaughter), Bob & Carolyn Buehrens, George Chapman, Gene & Sharon Crook, Harley & Liola Crown & son Terry, Agnes Dassow, Caleb & Emery Degenstein (Mark Emond’s friends), Elaine Emond (Mark’s mother), Marjorie Fabian, Mike Farrell, Ron Fuerstenau (Bill’s grandfather), Donna Gatzke, Kellen Grucza (Judy Fandrey’s daughter), Brody Henke, Ardis Henning, Dawn Hirn (Linda Krause’s niece), RaeLynn Hodgkins (Beth Johnson’s daughter), Geri Kerl (Sue Brown’s mother), Bob Klapper (Sandy’s husband), Doris Klawitter, Linda Krause, Aspen Raelynn Lefeber (Barb Hoffman’s great grandaughter), Anna Madigan, Ruthie Marcelain (Dawn’s granddaughter), LuAnn Reber, Wayne Riemer, Frankie Russell, Mark Russell (Elsa’s son), Bob Schrank, Joan Schmitz (Lisa Ollendorf’s mother), Dennis Schwanke (Mary Isberner’s friend), Jennifer Strauss, Jane Torres (Stacie Starke’s mother), Dennis & Ramona Wacholtz, Donny Weber (Betty’s son), Paul Weldon, Millie Wildt (John’s wife), Raymond Zacharrias (Marilyn Riemer’s brother) – (added this week: Linda Krause, Paul Weldon)

– For Wyatt Eldon Carpenter, the son of David & Brianne (Brian and Kathy Ninneman’s daughter), born on 9/27

– For Don & Eileen Ebert who celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary yesterday (9/29)

– For Kash Z Kuchar, the son of Josh & Amanda Kuchar, baptized in today’s service at Emmanuel

– For the music ministry of Branches Band & Koine

LORD’S PRAYER (sung by Branches Band)

CLOSING PRAYER

BLESSING

“May the Lord” (sung by Branches Band)

May the Lord bless you and keep you.

May the Lord make his face shine upon you.

May the Lord show you his favor and give you peace;

And give you peace.

CLOSING HYMN

To God Be the Glory (CW 399)

Branches Band will sing verse 1; the congregation joins on the remaining verses

Emmanuel 8:00am service: congregation sings

Verse 1

To God be the glory; great things he has done!

He so loved the world that he gave us his Son,

Who yielded his life an atonement for sin

And opened the life-gate that all may go in.

Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord!

Let the earth hear his voice!

Refrain:

Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord!
Let the people rejoice!
Oh, come to the Father through Jesus the Son
And give him the glory — great things he has done!

Verse 2

Oh, perfect redemption, the purchase of blood,
To ev’ry believer the promise of God;
The vilest offender who truly believes,
That moment from Jesus a pardon receives.
Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord!
Let the earth hear his voice! [Refrain]

Verse 3

Great things he has taught us, great things he has done,
And great our rejoicing through Jesus the Son,
But purer and higher and greater will be
Our joy and our wonder when Jesus we see.
Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord!
Let the earth hear his voice! [Refrain]

ANNOUNCEMENTS

THEME FOR NEXT SUNDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2018

The Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost: Marriage

ACTIVITIES FOR THE WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 30-OCTOBER 6
Sun.	8:00 A.M.		Emmanuel Worship
	9:00 A.M.		St. John’s Adult Bible Study
	10:00 A.M.		St. John’s Worship/Picnic at City Park lead by Branches Band
Mon.	6:00 P.M.		Hands in Prayer at St. John’s
	6:30 P.M.		Bible Information Class at St. John’s begins
	6:30 P.M.		St. John’s Choir
	7:30 P.M.		St. John’s Adult Bible Study
Tues.	9:00 A.M.		St. John’s Elders meeting
	6:30 P.M.		Men’s Bible Study at St. John’s
Wed.	8:00 A.M.		St. John’s School Chapel
	10:00 A.M.		St. John’s Adult Bible Study
	1:40 P.M.		St. John’s School/Little Lambs early release
	2:15 P.M.		Public School Teen Confirmation at St. John’s
	6:30 P.M.		St. John’s Worship
	7:30 P.M.		St. John’s Bible Information Class
Thurs.	8:00 A.M.		St. John’s Teen Confirmation Class
	12:00 P.M.		St. John’s Ladies Aid lunch & meeting
	6:00 P.M.		Griefshare at St. John’s
Fri.
Sat.
SCHEDULE FOR NEXT SUNDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2018 The Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost: Marriage
8:00 A.M.		Emmanuel Worship (with communion)
8:30 A.M.		St. John’s Sunday School
9:00 A.M.		St. John’s Adult Bible Study
10:00 A.M.		St. John’s Worship
11:15 A.M.		St. John’s Voters meeting

FREE WILL OFFERING There will be a free-will door offering after the service to support the ministry of Branches Band. Feel free to visit their display in the narthex for more information, CDs, and sheet music that Branches Band has produced.

ABOUT BRANCHES BAND Branches Band travels all over the United States and Canada with their repertoire including hundreds of hymns and songs. Branches Band has served over 500 WELS and ELS congregations by offering Christian concerts, assisting with worship, and developing music resources for today’s church leaders and worship teams. For more information, visit the Branches Band website (www.branchesband.com), or visit them on Facebook at (www.facebook.com/branchesband).

See the source image

MEMORIALS In loving memory of Gertrude Wegenke, $990.00 has been given to St. John’s by relatives and friends, $25.00 has been given to St. John’s by Ladies Aid, $35.00 has been given the Sunday School by relatives and friends and $171.00 has been given to Little Lambs by relatives and friends. Thank you for your gifts.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27

THANK YOU to all who helped at last night’s concert on the ball diamond, today’s concert in the park, pot luck BBQ and games.

THANK YOU A gift of $25.00 has been given to St. John’s by Barb Zellmer in celebration of Ron and Evie Blada’s 60^th wedding anniversary. “I always thank my God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus. ⁵For in him you have been enriched in every way-with all kinds of speech and with all knowledge.”

1 Corinthians 1:4-5

JANITOR WANTED We are currently looking for a Janitor for the church (St.Johns). This is a paid position and would only require 2-3 hours a week to clean. Please let Ciara know if you are interested in cleaning. And for you school families, you could even earn credit to your child’s tuition if you decided to clean.

MECAN CHURCH HISTORY PRESENTATION On Sunday, October 14, at 9:00AM (following worship), Pastor Dolan will be presenting the story of the pioneer history of Emmanuel Mecan, and the beginnings of Lutheranism in Marquette County. “The Little Church Called Big Mecan” is the story of the years before any congregations were organized in the county (1852-1867). Anyone interested is invited to attend. Refreshments of coffee, juice and sweets will be served.

MEN’S BIBLE CLASS Meets Tuesday – 6:30 PM

Last week it was about not losing our “First Love.” This week we travel to the ancient city of Smyrna (now Izmir) in Turkey. The ways things are and the way things will be be do not always seem rosy, but “be faithful unto death and I will give you the crown of life.” That’s a promise for your today too! Come and Let’s Talk Turkey.

SEPTEMBER IS BEFRIEND A MISSION MONTH AT ST. JOHN’S. Thanks to all who participated in this annual month-long LWMS observance. During the month, our assigned missionaries—the Cortrights and Sigrists in Canada, the Mouas in St. Paul, Minnesota, and Tom C. in Thailand–have enjoyed cards, notes, emails, & art projects from parish members of all ages. Thank you for including them in your prayers and for your gifts to our fall mission collections at St. John’s & Emmanuel. The Lutheran Women’s Missionary Society (LWMS) supports WELS missions by prayer, encouragement, & giving. They work to increase interest in and support mission endeavors of the WELS.

HAVE YOU GIVEN YOUR FALL MISSION OFFERING YET? DEADLINE IS TODAY! Please use the collection container where you are a member (church entrance both at Emmanuel & St. John’s). Since we are worshipping at the park today, you may also give your offering today to LWMS Reporter Linda Wachholz. Be a friend to missions!

FALL SERVICE PROJECT FOR NEW BEGINNINGS HOME FOR MOTHERS where single mothers can come to experience a safe place and have a new beginning in caring for their children. Please help us collect general household & personal need items as listed on the wish list available at the collection box at each church. Please pick one up at the collection boxes in the Info Room & linkway at St. John’s or in the parish hall at Emmanuel. Your help is appreciated! Collecting through Sunday, October 14.

HAVE YOU ENTERED THE LWMS FUN QUIZ CONTEST OR VISITED THE BE-A- FRIEND TREE AT THE LINKWAY DISPLAY at St. John’s? Since we worship at the park next Sunday, today is your last chance! The women of the Lutheran Women’s Missionary Society (LWMS) thank you for supporting WELS missions!!

See the source image SCRIP What is Scrip? Using the Scrip program, you can raise money without devoting your time to selling products, asking for donations, or planning events. Earn money every day on the purchases you’re already making just by paying with a gift card you ordered from ShopWithScrip. Use your fundraised money where you want…church, school, your child’s tuition, etc. Check out the Scrip display in the link way, contact our Scrip coordinator Joe Zauner (608) 697-8533, or go online at ShopWithScrip.com-Fundraising While You Shop for more details.

GRIEFSHARE A 13-week session has started at St. John’s. We meet in the lower level at St. John’s at 6:00p.m. Feel free to call or leave a message with any questions or concerns (608) 697-1600 Mark Emond

VOLUNTEERS WANTED AT EMMANUEL Emmanuel Lutheran Church is still recruiting 1 (or more) volunteers to assist with the following position; all expenses are reimbursed by Emmanuel Lutheran Church.

1) Sunday School Teacher: This individual will help further the Christian up-bringing of parish and non-parish children, historically between the ages of 2 and 6, by managing the weekly Sunday School sessions held in the Emmanuel Parish Hall. The timing of the class and age group preference is flexible.

If you are interested in serving the Lord with your time and talents by assisting with these important activities, please contact Darrell Buchholz or Pastor Zietlow.

CHRISTIAN ONE-LINERS (from a WELS pastor): “Well, this explains a lot! – A pastor said: “You need to join the Army of the Lord!” My friend replied, “I’m already in the Army of the Lord, Pastor.” Pastor questioned, “How come I don’t see you except at Christmas and Easter?” He whispered back, “I’m in the secret service.”

Luther Prep Presents Romeo and Juliet TOGETHER (and alive!) AT LAST A comedy sure to please all! Saturday October 20, 7pm* Sunday, October 21, 2:30pm Luther Prep Auditorium 1300 Western Ave Watertown, WI *Saturday also has Dining option at 5:30pm. Must RSVP by Oct 5 online: lps.wels.net/page/performing-arts/ fall-play or by calling Sue at 920-262-8104 Seats are $6 general admission-no RSVP (free ages 6 and under).

See the source image PRISON CARD MINISTRY At St. John’s, we collect card fronts from Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving, and general greeting (thinking/praying for you) cards, so save them for us and deposit them in the collection box outside the office. We then write encouraging Christian messages on them and share them with Institutional Ministries. In turn, they are shared with prisoners. We’d love to have your help! Writing the cards is something all ages can do–even parents & their children could do this as a service project at home! Contact Linda Wachholz (608-369-2635). Our goal is to complete cards by mid-November.

ST. JOHN’S A/V ROOM–HELP WANTED Our current audio/visual crew (Tracy Hoffman & Aaron Wachholz) welcomes more members to learn what they do to show PowerPoint services on the big screen, record services to create DVD’s and upload to our church website, operate the sound system, etc. We just need a couple extra volunteers to call on occasionally to help out upstairs. No one will be expected to create powerpoints or copy the dvd’s, just learn how to record a service and run the powerpoints for services. “Many hands make light work.”

RECYCLE MEDITATIONS DEVOTIONALS FOR PRISON MINISTRY

Done with your summer edition of the Meditations devotion booklet? At St. John’s, we are collecting them for use in the WELS Prison Ministry. Leave your used copy in any of the 2 collection boxes located in the info room or in front of the office window by Sunday, September 30^th. We will then mail them in to the prison ministry office. Copies must be no more than 1 year old and contain no personal information. Forward in Christ is no longer accepted due to private information provided in them. Thank you for helping with this important gospel ministry!

Attendance

Emmanuel

St. John’s

9-23 9-26

120

170 6

St. John’s Altar Committee:

September 2018

Diane Eisermann

Delores Cotte

St. John’s Greeters Schedule

Sept. 30	Kenon & Mary Smith
Oct 7	Aaron Kendall & Christopher Smith
Oct 14	Scott & Debbie Ritz
Oct 21	Karl Whitrock & Elsa Russell
Oct 28	Al & Carolyn Rosenthal
Nov 4	Dixie Wagner & Bernice Wegner
Nov 11	Linda Lou Wacholtz & Karen Wojtalewicz
Nov 18	Don & Doris Smith
Nov 22	James & Linda Wachholz
Nov 25	Ron & Evie Blada

Usher Schedule

September 30

Don Stelter, Paul Wuerch, Paul Dahlke

Don Smith; Chief, Gordon Krause, Richard Freitag, Gerhardt Voigt, Mitch Simon

October 7

(with comm.) E

Brian Ninneman, Glenn Buchholz, Joe Heller, comm. assist. Lucas Stelter

Don Smith; Chief, Gordon Krause, Richard Freitag, Gerhardt Voigt, Mitch Simon

October 14

(with comm.) SJ

Darrell Buchholz, Warren Buchholz, Duwayne Sommerfeld

Kenon Smith; Chief, Karl Whitrock, Matt Borzick, Glen Bubolz, Al Rosenthal

October 21

Duwayne Sommerfeld, Bob Ferber, Brian Ninneman

Cal Kapp; Chief, Christopher Smith, Calvin Wojtalewicz, Zeb Zuehls, Mark Emond

October 28

(with comm.) SJ

Wayne Stelter, Jim Steumpges, Paul Dahlke

James Wachholz; Chief, Kevin Kaul, Scott Ritz, Ken Borzick, Thomas Wojtalewicz

Welcome To Our Visitors!

Please Sign Our Guest Register

Visit our website link at: www.stjohnsmontello.org

Like & find us on Facebook

Pastor Peter Zietlow Office (608) 297-2321

Cell & Text (608) 408-7830, E-mail: zietlowpl6@hotmail.com

Teacher Karin Stellick (920) 342-3689

Teacher Sara Borck (858) 731-7919

Teacher Rachel Naumann (847) 913-2135

Teacher Cassie Doering (920) 723-8986

Parish/School Secretary Ciara Neuhauser (608) 297-2866

Altar Ladies Elaine Kelm (920) 344-0025 &

Carolyn Rosenthal 589-5036

Mail to: 313 E Montello St, Montello, WI 53949

OR scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org

Winnebago Lutheran Academy

Principal Mr. David Schroeder/WLA office (920) 921-4930

WLA website: www.wlavikings.org

Christian Teammates – September 28, 2018

September 28, 2018 Kerry

We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.
1 John 1:3

Christian Teammates

Daily Devotion – September 28, 2018

Devotion based on 1 John 1:3

See series: Devotions

When professional athletes quit playing their sport, we often hear them say, “I’ll really miss the guys in the locker room. I’ll really miss my teammates.”

God has knit humans together in such a way that we long for fellowship. We long to have friendships, to have people with whom we can share experiences. It is certainly true that it shows up in different measures in different people, but all of us need other people at least to some extent. We need fellowship.

And God wants you to have it! So, what does he do? He tells us about Jesus! He tells us about how Jesus really came to this earth, how he really died and rose. God tells us how he won forgiveness for us and eternal life for us. As God tells us these things, he works faith in our hearts, which connects us to himself! Wow! What companionship that is!

But in grace, there is even more. Faith connects us to God; by connecting us to himself, God also connects us to other people. If I am connected to Jesus, and you are connected to Jesus, that means we are also connected to each other, through Jesus! Because of God’s grace, we are teammates! And we will be forever!

Keep on hearing the message! Hear it regularly! Rejoice that God has connected you to himself and rejoice that he is connecting you to Christian “teammates” all over the world!

Prayer:
O Holy Spirit, unite me to you, and unite me to my fellow believers. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

A Most Precious Family Heirloom – September 27, 2018

September 27, 2018 Kerry

Tell it to your children, and let your children tell it to their children, and their children to the next generation.
Joel 1:3

A Most Precious Family Heirloom

Daily Devotion – September 27, 2018

Devotion based on Joel 1:3

See series: Devotions

I have a photograph which is very dear to me, taken on the day of my confirmation. It shows four men standing in a line, with about one foot and twenty years between each of them. Earlier that day, I had made a public confession of my faith in Jesus together with my fellow eighth-graders and then received Holy Communion for the first time. After the service I posed for that picture with my father, my grandfather, and my great-grandfather. Four generations who had grown up in the Christian faith thanks to the faithfulness of each generation that came before them. I am eternally grateful to these men and their Christian wives for passing down their most valued possession—the knowledge of our Savior Jesus Christ and a commitment to remain in his Word.

I learned in catechism class all those years ago that I inherited my sinful nature from my parents, and they inherited it from theirs, and so on. Every generation passes along original sin to the next. We are born outside of God’s grace, foreigners to his kingdom, and ignorant of his promises. That is why every generation needs to hear of their desperate need for a Savior and the good news of God’s forgiveness. Every child needs to learn about their Savior Jesus who loves them to death and beyond. Even Christian parents can’t simply assume that their children will somehow pick up their faith by osmosis. A conscious effort needs to be made to share God’s Word with our children.

In more recent family pictures, I am farther up the generational ladder. Over the years nothing has given me greater joy than to worship together with my wife and children. And what a privilege it is now on those occasions when my grandson sits on my lap in the church pew! I watch as his daddy reminds him to fold his hands when we pray. I love to hear his little voice sing Bible songs with his mommy. I’m thankful their young family attends a church where they receive support and encouragement in raising their child to walk with Christ.

If your family does not attend church together, it’s not too late! It may seem challenging at first but remember that this is God’s will for your family, so he will most assuredly help you. Your efforts to speak with your children about Jesus today will bring blessings to your family for generations to come.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for making me your child. Help me teach my family about your love so that together we may receive your grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Danger of Sharing the Gospel – September 26, 2018

September 26, 2018 Kerry

Because the LORD revealed their plot to me, I knew it, for at that time he showed me what they were doing. I had been like a gentle lamb led to the slaughter; I did not realize that they had plotted against me, saying, “Let us destroy the tree and its fruit; let us cut him off from the land of the living, that his name be remembered no more.”
Jeremiah 11:18-19

Danger of Sharing the Gospel

Daily Devotion – September 26, 2018

Devotion based on Jeremiah 11:18-19

See series: Devotions

On August 15, 2015, a Christian pastor in India was abducted from his home by anti-Christian forces. They had warned him on four previous occasions to stop sharing the gospel. He refused. Family members found his body the next day. Shortly after that, the family buried their beloved son, husband, father, and brother, saying goodbye to a man who only wanted to share the love of God in Christ Jesus our Savior. In an interview with a Christian organization, the wife of the slain pastor wept as she told a reporter, “I am happy that my husband…died for Christ. He is in heaven. I am happy with that. I cannot lose the faith. I am still faithful. God forgive them. I forgive the person who did all of this.”

The prophet Jeremiah could relate to the danger this pastor faced because he was in danger for much the same reason. God sent him to proclaim a message of severe warning to his Old Testament people who had turned away from the Lord to worship idols. Naturally, Jeremiah’s message enraged the people and they didn’t want to hear it; in fact, they were plotting to kill him.

Most of us have never faced the possibility of death for the privilege of sharing God’s Word, but that message is still despised and those who share it are still hated by the unbelieving world we live in. Should that stop us? Of course not! It didn’t stop Jesus. His love for all people moved him to risk and sacrifice everything—even himself—to establish the way of salvation for us.

That pastor in India knew the love of Christ. He shared the gospel of salvation with his people even though he was in great danger. He prayed that some would hear and believe God’s saving message and he took the risk. God’s love filled him with love for his people.

Jeremiah continued to proclaim God’s Word for the same reason. And so should we.

Prayer:
Dearest Savior, may your love for us fill us with love for all people and make us willing to share the good news of salvation no matter what the risk. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Where to Park on Saturday 9/29/18 -Branches Band & Koine concert on St. John’s ball diamond (bonfire, snacks & drinks)

September 25, 2018 Kerry

Here is the parking layout for Saturday. The yellow areas are where we can park. We can use the Catholic parking lot after 5pm, we can park up and down Church street and up and down Clay street and the overflow parking will be in the field which can be entered off of Park street.

Wisdom – September 25, 2018

September 25, 2018 Kerry

Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.
James 3:13-18

Wisdom

Daily Devotion – September 25, 2018

Devotion based on James 3:13-18

See series: Devotions

“Who is wise and understanding among you?” Well, that depends on your definition or standard of wisdom.

Are you wise?

There is a kind of wisdom that is fueled by selfish ambition and bitter envy. Such wisdom wants to get ahead in life; it wants to fulfill its desires at whatever cost. It is willing to deny the truth to do so, even to the point of resorting to evil practices. Though it leaves a trail of disorder in its wake, it boasts of the great things it has accomplished. The Bible calls this earthly wisdom. It also calls it unspiritual, even of the devil. It is wisdom which is characterized chiefly by a selfish focus on me.

There is, however, another kind of wisdom. It is never willing to sacrifice the truth; it is pure. Rather than seeking to get ahead of others, it is peace-loving and considerate. Rather than striving for personal gain, it is submissive and full of mercy. Instead of resorting to evil, it bears good fruit; it is impartial and sincere. Such wisdom has no room for boasting; it is full of humility. The Bible calls this heavenly wisdom. It points out that it produces a harvest of righteousness. It is wisdom that is characterized chiefly by a loving focus on others.

Are you wise?

As you fight the temptation to be me-focused and strive to lovingly focus on others, remember where true wisdom comes from. It comes not from within or below. It comes from above, from God. It comes from the One who was and is wisdom personified. It comes from the Savior who never sinfully focused on himself and always lovingly focused on the spiritual and eternal welfare of others. Remember that this wisdom is revealed in and fueled by the gospel.

“Who is wise and understanding among you?” The one who knows and trusts and walks with Jesus.

Prayer:
Lord God, forgive me for the times I have embraced earthly wisdom and left behind me a trail littered with hurt and hardship. With eyes focused on you and others, may my faith shine as I pursue and practice heavenly wisdom. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Jesus Our Greatness – September 24, 2018

September 24, 2018 Kerry

Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all.” He took a little child and had him stand among them. Taking him in his arms, he said to them, “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.”
Mark 9:35-37

Jesus Our Greatness

Daily Devotion – September 24, 2018

Devotion based on Mark 9:35-37

See series: Devotions

Children are adorable. They can say hilarious things and have endearing antics. But often children can be seen as the least of us. On the one hand they are helpless. They rely on adults for shelter, clothing, and food but yet have little ability to help adults provide for them. On the other hand, they can be extremely self-centered.

The disciples had been quite childlike. They were helpless, failed to recognize their helplessness, and were acting quite self-centered. Jesus had shown them their helplessness when he had warned them that he was going to be killed and was going to rise from the dead. They didn’t get what he meant, so instead they found something else to talk about—their own self-centeredness—or as they saw it their own greatness. And so, the disciples argued and argued until Jesus asked them, “What are you arguing about?” And maybe quieted by embarrassment, they had nothing to say.

As much as we hate to admit it, we are childlike too. We often fail to see our own helplessness. You may think that if you do some good here and there that God will send some good things your way. Maybe you think that you have earned every single thing that you have been given without realizing you could lose it all in an instant. You may fail to see your own helplessness because you, like the disciples, try to focus on how great of a person you are.

Jesus says that true greatness is letting go of self-centeredness and pride by understanding your own helplessness. Greatness comes through Jesus’ cross. He handed himself over for you so that he would die for your self-centeredness and vanity. He is the one who conquered death and defines greatness in his life and death for you.

Doesn’t this move you to care for those who do not seem as great or deserving? If Jesus thinks you are great, then you can humble yourself without losing value. If Jesus thinks those who are least deserving are great, then you can care for those you think do not deserve it.

When children are self-centered, be patient. When children are helpless, continue to care. Encourage them and show them love. Jesus says you receive him because he cares for all those who are least deserving.

Prayer:
Jesus, thank you for humbling yourself for me and going to the cross to die for me. Because of your death and resurrection, you are great. Help me to understand my own need for you and empower me to serve those who are least deserving. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

More than Fair – September 23, 2018

September 23, 2018 Kerry

“But he answered one of them, ‘Friend, I am not being unfair to you. Didn’t you agree to work for a denarius? Take your pay and go. I want to give the man who was hired last the same as I gave you. Don’t I have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous?’”
Matthew 20:13-15

More than Fair

Daily Devotion – September 23, 2018

Devotion based on Matthew 20:13-15

See series: Devotions

Some people might argue that God isn’t fair. He doesn’t punish quickly enough. He doesn’t punish severely enough. He even allows bad things to happen to good people. God’s fairness is also questioned when it comes to people entering heaven. It doesn’t seem fair that some people are excluded.

While I might be tempted to think God is unfair, I need to remember the truth which Jesus teaches. God is more than fair.

Jesus’ parable of the workers in the field (Matthew 20:1-16) reveals God’s goodness and his mercy. The landowner, who is the Lord, graciously calls many to come into his field. Some are there for a long time. Others are there only for a short time. At the final accounting, the Lord gives everyone what he promised. Unfortunately, the fairness and the generosity of the Lord is called into question.

The landowner’s response is critical: “Are you envious because I am generous?” The parable addressed the jealousy of the descendants of Abraham who assumed they deserved more from the Lord. The Lord’s answer gave them a completely different perspective, and it becomes a valuable lesson for me when I harbor doubts about the Lord’s fairness.

While I may be tempted to think I deserve more from the Lord, I need to start with what I actually deserve. I should be punished, rejected, and separated from God forever. My sin is the reason why God should have turned away from me. God’s love, however, brought about a different response. Through the sacrificial work of Jesus, as well as through the substitution of his righteousness for my lack thereof, I am saved. If God were fair, none of this would have happened. Instead, God would judge me and sentence me to eternal punishment.

Through his wonderful love the Lord leads me to rejoice in my rescue and the promise of heaven. It also leads me to rejoice that God offers the same rescue and promise of heaven to all people. He wants all to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. This is more than fair. It is grace.

Prayer:
O gracious Lord, you have poured out your grace into my life. Bless me through the work of the Holy Spirit so that I acknowledge your love, rejoice in your love, and daily grow through your love. Amen.

This devotion was selected from the Daily Devotion archive.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.