BULLETIN- WELCOME HOME October 13th, 2019

Welcome! Thank you for joining us for worship this morning. In our service we gather before our almighty God to offer him our worship and praise. We also gather to strengthen ourselves   through the study of God’s holy and powerful Word.

Restrooms are located in the link way (through the Information Room and down the stairs) at   St. John’s and lower level at Emmanuel.

Nursery In the lower level of both churches, the service is available to watch on TV and children have space for their needs. At St. John’s exiting church, it is located down the stairs to the left, to the link way, and down the stairs again to the left. At Emmanuel exiting church, it is located down the hallway to the right.

Welcome Home!
Our Need for Christian Community
The Lost Are Now Found
You Are Free to Be Yourself
You Are Perfectly Safe Here
You Have an Everlasting Family
You are Part of Christ’s Glorious Kingdom

Our Worship Series Read through Scripture and count the times it refers to believers as “brothers and sisters.” You will reach the triple digits quickly. The Holy Spirit is deliberate with his choice of words. If he frequently refers to the Church in those terms, there can be only one explanation. He wants us to think of each other as family. We understand the important roles a mother and father play. We know the joys (and challenges) of having siblings. Do we grasp that it is just as important that we have a spiritual family? Scripture teaches that what unites us to our spiritual family is infinitely more powerful than any biological bond. Moreover, you can lose a blood relative. They can be taken away from you by death. But you will enjoy the companionship of your spiritual family for all eternity. In this worship series, we will look at how our Father knits us together in love and unity into a spiritual family. We will see the benefits of being part of this family. In the Church, Christ has given us a better home.

Our Theme for Today “Army of One” was the shortest-lived recruiting slogan in US military history. It was meant to stress the strength of the individual. The Army dropped the slogan relatively quickly because they realized it was contrary to the reality that, in the army, you are completely reliant upon your team. In a stressful situation, the individual can be overwhelmed. He or she needs others. God knows this. The first time God looked at Creation and noticed something was off, the issue was that an individual (Adam) was isolated. “It is not good for the man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18). Humans are hardwired by God to need fellowship, not just with him, but with one another. So, God is determined to bring believers into a loving, nurturing community—the Church.

Perhaps you have been a part of this Christian family for a long time. Perhaps you once belonged to a church, but for whatever reason drifted away. Perhaps you have never belonged to a church. Whatever may be the case for you, mayGod bless you as you listen to his Word today. May he help us all to realize that this Christiancommunity—this spiritual home—is something we badly need. Welcome home!

608.297.2866 www.stjohnsmontello.org Like us on Facebook  
   
SERVICE OF WORD & SACRAMENT  
This service offers the congregation a form of worship that focuses on the proclamation of God’s Word and the celebration of Holy Communion.  
cross-4-white

  Gathering  

Sunday CHOIR SINGS —                                                                              Day By Day

Wednesday HYMN 365                                                    Love Diving, All Love Excelling

Please stand

INVOCATION

M:  In the name of the Father and of the  Son and of the Holy Spirit.

C:  Amen.

CONFESSION AND ABSOLUTION

M:  God has called us to live as family. Yet, our love for God and for each other is not what it should be. Our priorities and choices are often flawed. But the power of God’s love enables us to live a new life. Let us confess our sins to God and ask for his forgiveness.

C:  Almighty God, merciful Father, I confess to you that I have not loved you with all my heart. In what I have done and left undone, I have pursued my ways instead of your ways. I have not loved my brothers and sisters as myself. For this I deserve your punishment both now and in eternity. I am truly sorry for my sins. I repent of them.

I beg for your mercy, O Lord.

Silence for meditation

M:  Forgive us for the sake of Jesus Christ who suffered and died for us.

C: Lord, have mercy. Christ, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

M: God has been merciful to us and has sent his Son to die for all. For his sake, God forgives our sins and empowers us to be his people. Therefore, as a called servant of Christ and by his authority, I forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

C: Amen.

M: Our Lord Jesus Christ has forgiven us and reconciled us to God and has promised us the power to forgive and love each other. In the peace of forgiveness, let us praise the Lord.

After a brief introduction, all sing:

TO GOD ON HIGH BE GLORY                                                Gloria in Excelsis

Glory to God 76 76 D to ELLACOMBE TT

PRAYER OF THE DAY

M:   O Lord Jesus Christ,

        preserve the family of believers with your never-failing mercy.

        Bind us together with the bond of your love.

        Help us avoid whatever is wicked and harmful,

        and guide us in the way that leads to our salvation;

        for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit,

       one God, now and forever.

C:  Amen.

Please stand

  The Word 

FIRST LESSON                                                                                   Ecclesiastes 4:7-12

Scripture says that people are not wired to be rugged individuals. God created us to need
 one another. Two are better than one. Even better is having Christ as the third strand
 within a relationship. He provides the love and grace that keeps that bond strong.

Again I saw something meaningless under the sun: There was a man all alone; he had neither son nor brother. There was no end to his toil, yet his eyes were not content with his wealth. “For whom am I toiling,” he asked, “and why am I depriving myself of enjoyment?” This too is meaningless—a miserable business!

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor:  If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.
Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone?
Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

PSALM OF THE DAY                                Psalm 133 How Very Good and Pleasant

Choir sings.

            Together, together we lift our voices to the Lord.

            Together, together we shout our praise to his name.

            Refrain

            Through water and his Word the Spirit makes us family.

            Salvation and new life are ours to share with everyone.

            Refrain

            You servants of the Lord, now in his house lift up your hands and praise

            the Lord who made the heavens and the earth.

            Refrain

SECOND LESSON                                              Hebrews 2:9-18 (today’s sermon text)

Jesus became our brother so that by his suffering, death and resurrection he might
 unite us to himself and knit us together into a spiritual family

But we do see Jesus, who was made lower than the angels for a little while, now crowned with glory and honor because he suffered death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone.

In bringing many sons and daughters to glory, it was fitting that God, for whom and through whom everything exists, should make the pioneer of their salvation perfect through what he suffered. Both the one who makes people holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters. He says, “I will declare your name to my brothers and sisters; in the assembly I will sing your praises.”  And again, “I will put my trust in him.” And again he says, “Here am I, and the children God has given me.”

Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil— and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death. For surely it is not angels he helps, but Abraham’s descendants. For this reason he had to be made like them, fully human in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people. Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.

VERSE OF THE DAY

M:        Alleluia! I will declare your name to my brothers and sisters;

            in the assembly I will sing your praises. Alleluia!

C:

Please stand

GOSPEL                                                                                                 Matthew 11:25-30

Jesus wants us in his family so that he might give us rest and peace.

At that time Jesus said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this is what you were pleased to do.

 “All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.

 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

M:  This is the Gospel of our Lord.

C:   Praise be to you, O Christ!

Please be seated

HYMN OF THE DAY — 532                                         God Is Here! As We His People

SERMON                                                       Hebrews 2:9-18 “The Author of Salvation”

  1. Is your suffering brother
  2. Is your conquering high priest

Please stand

CONFESSION OF FAITH                                                                        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.

Please be seated

  Offering & Prayers  

OFFERING

The ushers now gather the “Thank-Offering.”  Members of this congregation show their thanks to God for all he has done for them by returning a portion of their income to the Lord.  Through these free will offerings, this congregation and its ministries are maintained.  Guests need not feel obligated to contribute. Please also sign our Friendship Registers and greet one another.

Please stand

PRAYERS

The Offering Prayer, Prayer for the Need for Christian Community and Intercessory Prayers are spoken by pastor. Please see announcements for those on our Intercessory Prayers list.

LORD’S PRAYER

M: We pray in Jesus’ name and as he taught.

C:   Our Father in heaven,

hallowed be your name,

your kingdom come,

your will be done on earth as in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread.

Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us.

Lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever.

Amen.

*Sunday at Emmanuel, Wednesday at St. John’s continue with…

CLOSING PRAYER & BLESSING

CLOSING HYMN                                         Oh, How Good It Is    bulletin pages 12, 13

*Sunday at St. John’s, continue with…

  Holy Communion 

OPENING SENTENCES

M:  The Lord be with you.

C:  And also with you.

M:  Lift up your hearts.

C:  We lift them up to the Lord.

M:  Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.

C:  It is right to give him thanks and praise.

M:  Praise to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ!

      In love he has blessed us with every spiritual blessing.

      He sends his Holy Spirit to testify that we are his children

      and to strength us when we are weak.

      Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God

      and the authority of his Christ.

      To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb

      be praise and thanks and honor and glory for ever and ever.

HOLY, HOLY, HOLY                                                                                          Sanctus

 

WORDS OF INSTITUTION

M: Our Lord Jesus Christ, on the night he was betrayed, took bread; and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.”

      Then he took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you; this is my blood of the new covenant, which is poured out for you for the forgiveness of sins. Do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.”

      The peace of the Lord be with you always.

C:  Amen.

O CHRIST, LAMB OF GOD                                                                           Agnus Dei

SWS 09 Agnus Dei

DISTRIBUTION HYMNS — 492                                         Son of God, Eternal Savior

                                                    309                Draw Near and Take the Body of the Lord

CLOSING PRAYER

M:  We give you thanks, O Lord, for the foretaste of the heavenly banquet that you have given us to eat and to drink in this sacrament. Through this gift you have fed our faith, nourished our hope, and strengthened our love. By your Spirit help us to live as your holy people until that day when you will receive us as your guests at the wedding supper of the Lamb, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

C:  Amen.

BLESSING               

M:  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.

      The Lord look on you with favor and give you peace.

C:  Amen.

CLOSING HYMN                                                                                 Oh, How Good It Is

Cantors will introduce with verse 1, congregation can join at any time.

 

Announcements

Activities for the week of October 13 – October 19

    WELCOME HOME SUNDAY
Sun. 8:00 A.M. Emmanuel Worship
  8:30 A.M. St. John’s Sunday School 
  9:00 A.M. SJ Adult Bible Study at St. John’s
  10:00 A.M. St. John’s Worship with communion
  11:15 A.M. St. John’s breakfast in lower level
Mon. 6:30 P.M. Choir at St. John’s 
  7:30 P.M. Adult Bible Study at St. John’s
Tues.   Joint Pastor’s Conference – Elkhart Lake
  6:30 P.M. Men’s Bible Study at St. John’s 
Wed.   Joint Pastor’s Conference – Elkhart Lake
  8:00 A.M. St. John’s School Chapel 
  1:40 P.M. St. John’s School/Little Lambs Early Release
  6:30 P.M. St. John’s Worship
  7:30 P.M. Bible Information Class at St. John’s  
Thurs. 8:00 A.M. St. John’s School Confirmation Class 
  6:00 P.M. Griefshare at St. John’s lower level (6 of 13 weeks)
  6:30 P.M. Council meeting at St. John’s 
Fri.  5:00 P.M. Dolan/Kempf Wedding Rehearsal at St. John’s 
Sat.  2:00 P.M. Dolan/Kempf Wedding at St. John’s  
Theme for Next Sunday October 20 , 2019 “Welcome Home – The Lost Are Now Found”
8:00 A.M. Emmanuel Worship
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 Voter meeting
2:00 P.M. Pastor Nick Haarsch installation – Peace Green Lake

INTERCESSORY PRAYERS – For those hospitalized, ill, shut-in and facing trials: Ron Blada, Liola Crown & son Terry, Agnes Dassow, Reinold Eckelberg, Harold Fandrey, Lilah Farrell, Xzander Jahr, Chris Krause (Gordy and Linda’s son), Shirley Krueger, Robert Lederer (Jackie and Jeanne Buchholz’ father), Delvin Mittelsteadt, Mark and Peggy Russell (Elsa’s son and daughter in-law), Katie Segrist (Pastor Gary & Orlene Johnson’s daughter), Doris Smith, Jennifer Strauss, Shirley Wilkens – (added this week: Lilah Farrell)

– For the family of Russell Gray, brother of St. John’s members Pam Hunter & Annette St. Onge, called home on 10/6

– For Bernice Wegner who celebrated her 70th birthday yesterday, 10/12

– For the family of our St. John’s member, Karl Whitrock, called home on 10/6

– For our communicants at St. John’s

WELCOME HOMESUNDAY: TODAY, OCTOBER 13TH THE BLESSING OF “HOME”

There’s something about home. Home is where you relax after a long day of work. Home is where you can let your hair down, because you know the people there will love you, even with your quirks and flaws. Home is where you feel most safe, in a world which is anything but. Jesus intended for his church to be more than a school where we learn about God’s Word. He intended it to be more than a cathedral where we praise our Creator. Jesus intended for church to be a home, a place where we gather with Christian family and enjoy all the blessings of home. Today, we are celebrating Welcome Home Sunday. We will talk about the importance of having the support of a Christian community.

ST. JOHN’S BREAKFAST Today, following our “Welcome Home” 10:00a.m. service at St. John’s, Stacie Starke will be hosting breakfast in the lower level. What’s on the menu: Biscuits, biscuits and more biscuits! Biscuits with sausage gravy, biscuits, sausage patty and cheese, biscuits with jam/jelly, cheezy tater tots with eggs and breakfast casseroles. See you there! Free will donations will be accepted. All donations will be going towards St. John’s parking lot.

EMMANUEL NEW MEMBER FELLOWSHIP On Sunday October 27th, following the 8:00am service. Please take some time to meet our newest members and enjoy donuts, juice and coffee.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY In memory of Bernice Wegner’s 70th birthday, yesterday October 12, $70.00 was given for St. John’s door fund. Thank you for your gift and birthday blessings to you!

VOTERS MEETING The next Voters meeting will be next Sunday, October 20th, following our 10:00am St. John’s service.

SNEAK PEAK AT THE GOSPEL Men’s Bible Study will continue this week Tuesday- 6:30pm – in St. John’s church basement.

DONATIONS FOR MARQUETTE COUNTY CARE & SHARE FOOD BANK  St. John’s members are invited to share in the Sunday School’s October service project:  collecting 1) non-perishable food items/paper products (Please be kind and watch expiration dates!)  and 2) new & gently used winter accessories: hats/caps/gloves/mittens/scarves/neckgaiters/etc. Collection containers in the linkway.  Deadline:  End of October

CARDS FOR PRISON MINISTRY–YOU CAN HELP!  Writing messages on card fronts for the WELS Prison Ministry is something everyone can do–men, women, teens, even grade school kids with parents or teachers supervising.  Pick up a packet or two of cards in the St. John’s linkway and spend some time writing Bible verses or short inspirational messages related to the type of card (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, or Praying for/Thinking of You cards).  Instructions are included with each packet of cards. Return the completed cards to the collection box by Thanksgiving Day, November 28.  Any questions, contact Linda Wachholz 608-369-2635.

SUNDAY BIBLE STUDY At, St. John’s, we begin to gather by 9am and are ready to go by 9:15am. “They” were watching Jesus. We need to be watching him too! How? Why?

ACTS–ACTIONS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT THROUGH THE GOSPEL IN THE EARLY CHRISTIAN CHURCH Adult Bible Study meets Monday at 7:30pm & Wednesday at 10am in the St. John’s conference room.

NEW LIFE IN CHRIST Bible Information Class (leads to membership) is at 7:30pm in the St. John’s conference room (alternate times may also be scheduled).

GRIEFSHARE The 13-week session of Griefshare has begun. Sessions are held at 6:00p.m. in the lower level of St. John’s. Join us for week #7, October 17. If you have any questions or concerns, please call Mark Emond (608) 697-1600.

ACH What is ACH? Automated Clearing House is an electronic payments network use by individuals, businesses, financial institutions and government organizations. Interested in having your church offering automatically deposited? Stop by the office or Information Room and fill out your application today.

MEDITATIONS New “Meditations” WELS daily devotional booklets are available in the church entry (many thanks to our generous members for donating!)

CHRISTIAN ONE-LINERS (from a WELS pastor): “God loves everyone, but probably prefers ‘fruits of the spirit’ over religious nuts!”  

SCHOLASTIC BOOKFAIR St. John’s is looking for an individual(s) who would want to run the Scholastic Book Fair. This has been a big success for our school and students in the past and we would love to continue this. Call the office if you or someone you know is interested!

JOIN US for THE FALL LWMS RALLY AT ZION-COLUMBUS – ALL ARE INVITED! MEN & CHILDREN, TOO! ”The Light of the Gospel Continues Shining in the Desert” is the theme for the Lutheran Women’s Missionary Society (LWMS) Fall Rally on Saturday, October 19. Pastor Dennis & Nancy Meier share from the 125th Anniversary of our Synod’s oldest mission field–Apacheland. 9:00 Registration begins with displays, Send One Sister silent auction, & an LWMS treasure hunt! 10:30 Apache-flavored Bible Study! 11:15 Business meeting; 11:45 Luncheon; 1:00 Devotion & Speaker. Carpool Signup in the Information Room or call your LWMS reporter Helen Stelter (297-7116) or Linda Wachholz (608-369-2635). Babysitting will be available! FALL SERVICE PROJECT for Peridot Our Savior Lutheran: 1) 4 items ONLY: crayons, markers, pencils, & glue sticks. 2) monetary donations to help Peridot purchase Scholastic books. Collection containers at each church. Your help is appreciated! Collecting through today Sunday, October 13.

Beaver Dam Circuit FALL RALLY

of the Lutheran Women’s Missionary Society

Saturday, October 19, 2019

9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

at Zion-Columbus (Co-hosts St. John-Doylestown)

Speakers: Pastor Dennis & Nancy Meier

“The Light of the Gospel Continues Shining in the Desert”

(125 Years of Apacheland Mission History)

Carpooling Signup in the Information Room at St. John’s

Attendance Emmanuel St. John’s
10-6                                    10-9 70                                       109                                       4
St. John’s Altar Committee October 2019 Elaine Kelm & Carolyn Rosenthal 

October 6                  

Emm/Usher Schedule  

   Emm (comm)                       Darrell Buchholz, Bob Ferber, Joe Heller,

comm. assist. Lucas Stelter

   SJ                                         Kenon Smith; Chief, Gerhardt Voigt, Mitch Simon,

Gordon Krause, Glen Bubolz

October 13                

   Emm                                     DuWayne Sommerfeld, Jim Stuempges, Gary Wegner

   SJ (comm)                           Cal Kapp; Chief, Al Rosenthal, Christopher Smith,

Calvin Wojtalewicz, Thomas Wojtalewicz

October 20    

   Emm                                     Wayne Stelter, Noah Buchholz, Paul Dahlke

   SJ                                         James Wachholz; Chief, Kenny Wojtalewicz, Zeb Zuehls,

Mark Emond, Ben Emond

October 27    

   Emm                                     Lucas Stelter, Bruce Stelter, Joe Heller

   SJ (comm)                           Jack Yates; Chief, Kevin Kaul, Corey Kaul, Ken Borzick,

James Henke

November 3  

   Emm (comm)                       Don Stelter, Paul Wuerch, Gary Weger,

comm. assist. Wayne Stelter

   SJ                                         Don Smith; Chief, Paul Van Treeck, Haiden Van Treeck,

Nolan Van Treeck, Matt Borzick

November 10

   Emm                                     Darrell Buchholz, Glenn Buchholz, Paul Dahlke

   SJ (comm)                           Kenon Smith; Chief, Martin Schmanke, Aaron Kendall,

            Chuck Boetcher, Jim Eisermann

November 17

   Emm                                     DuWayne Sommerfeld, Warren Buchholz, Don Stelter

   SJ                                         Cal Kapp; Chief, Jerre Duerr, Robin Smith, Joe Zauner Sr.,

Joe Zauner Jr.

November 24

   Emm                                     Wayne Stelter, Bob Ferber, Gary Wegner

   SJ (comm)                           James Wachholz; Chief, Jon Vote, Joe Vote,

Jesse Schable, Matt Neuhauser

November 27 Thanksgiving Eve

  SJ                                          Jack Yates; Chief, Ben Jaster, Jacob Jaster, Jeff Reimer,

Jeremy Breiwa

November 28 Thanksgiving

   Emm                                     Darrell Buchholz, Don Stelter, Gary Wegner

Text Box: ●●●
Welcome To Our Visitors!
Please Sign Our Guest Register
Find & Like us on Facebook
Visit our website link:  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. Rachel Naumann: (847) 913-2135
Principal & 6th - 8th Grade Teacher Mr. Larry Sellnow:  616-822-6689
Church & School Secretary Ciara Neuhauser: (608) 297-2866
Altar Ladies: Elaine Kelm: (920) 344-0025 & Carolyn Rosenthal: 589-5036
Church & School Address/Mail: 313 E Montello St, Montello, WI 53949
Church & School E-mail: scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org
●●●

 

Ripe Fruit – October 13, 2019

The LORD has sworn by himself, the Pride of Jacob: “I will never forget anything they have done.”
Amos 8:7

Ripe Fruit


Daily Devotion – October 13, 2019

Devotion based on Amos 8:7

See series: Devotions

In the days of Amos the prophet, the LORD God of Israel showed Amos a basket of ripe fruit. The LORD told him that just as the fruit was ripe, the time was ripe for his judgment on the people of Israel. Time was up.

The LORD‘s words should have disturbed every listener in Israel. He swore to never forget the evil they had done. His patience had run out. The end had come. Assyria would soon sweep them away.

Most of the people who listened to Amos’ message did not take him seriously. They despised him as a foreigner from the southern kingdom of Judah who had come to meddle in the affairs of the northern kingdom of Israel.

Within a generation, God carried out his threat. The kingdom of Israel collapsed.

The same God speaks to the world today through his ancient prophet whose words remain true for this generation. He speaks against the sinful excess and blatant idolatry in our lives. How can the Almighty forget the evil we have done?

Yet he makes a promise that repentant sinners love to hear. The God who says, “I will never forget anything they have done” has also declared, “I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more” (Jeremiah 31:34). Through Jesus Christ, he has kept this promise. Although your God would have every right to remember your sins, he has chosen instead to put your sins on his Son who took them to the cross. For his Son’s sake, he remembers your sins no more.

Prayer:
Righteous God, forgive me, renew me, bless me, and keep me steadfast in your gracious love through Jesus Christ. 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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Mercy – October 12, 2019

Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy . . . The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly.
1 Timothy 1:13,14

Mercy


Daily Devotion – October 12, 2019

Devotion based on 1 Timothy 1:13,14

See series: Devotions

One of the classic tales in all of literature is Les Misérables, by Victor Hugo. The story is set in France in the early 1800s. The main character, Jean Valjean, has just gotten out of prison, and no one wants to help him in any way. Finally, he finds refuge with an elderly bishop, who happily gives him shelter and food. But Valjean’s old habits get the better of him, and during the night he fills a bag with the bishop’s silver and runs away.

The next morning, three policemen pound on the bishop’s door. They’ve caught Valjean with the bishop’s silver. They now have cause to lock him up for life. But the bishop responds in a surprising way. “So here you are!” he cries to Valjean. “I’m delighted to see you. Had you forgotten I gave you the candlesticks as well?”

The policemen are speechless. And so is Valjean. The officers have no choice but to release him and walk away. This single act of mercy spares him from a lifetime in prison. And it also changes his life.

Les Misérables, of course, is only a story. But God’s mercy for you and me in Jesus Christ is not. The apostle Paul openly confessed that, apart from Christ, he had been “a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man.” Then God’s mercy stepped in. By the power of the gospel, the Holy Spirit created within Paul the miracle of faith in Jesus as his Savior. That act of mercy spared Paul from an eternity of darkness. And it changed his whole outlook on life.

You and I can see ourselves in Jean Valjean. And we can see ourselves in Paul. Alone, we are lost. But God’s mercy has intervened. And God’s mercy is here because of what his Son has already done on our behalf to wash us clean.

The mercy of God. The pure, simple, sweet mercy of God in Jesus. Rather than make us speechless, may it make us sing his praise!

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, your mercy has rescued us from a life of darkness and despair. You have done this through faith in your Son. 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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The Importance of One – October 11, 2019

[Jesus said] “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
Luke 15:10

The Importance of One


Daily Devotion – October 11, 2019

Devotion based on Luke 15:10

See series: Devotions

Our congregation will soon be observing a Welcome Home Sunday. We hope to have all of our members come together for a festive day of worship and encouragement in God’s Word. We also hope that those who might have strayed from God’s church will come back and experience God’s love and forgiveness with us, as well as the blessing of a Christian community.

As a way of preparing for Welcome Home Sunday, we recently studied Jesus’ parables in Luke, chapter 15. A keen observation that one of our members made was the importance of one.

In Jesus’ stories, one sheep out of ninety-nine was lost; one coin out of ten went missing; one son left home to disown his family and squander his wealth. But that one was worth going after. That one was worth searching for. That one was worth waiting for with eager anticipation.

Jesus tells us, “There is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”

This means that when God leads you from unbelief to faith, from sin to repentance, from straying to returning, God and his angels rejoice over you! Your soul—as small and unimportant as it may feel at times in this big world—matters to God! Nothing brings God greater joy than to forgive your sins and welcome you home!

The importance of one also makes a difference as we think about others. In love, we want sinners to turn to the Lord in humble faith and receive his forgiveness. So we pray for them. We reach out to them. We invite them. How discouraging it can be when it seems like our work is wasted. Hours of care and prayer may show little or no outward results.

But God works in hearts through his Word. And, there is rejoicing over everyone who turns back to the Lord. So, do not lose heart. We who have been loved and found can boldly love and seek others and then rejoice over each one who comes home to their Savior.

Prayer:
Jesus, you rejoice over me. Give me your heart to rejoice over all who repent. 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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Jesus Loves the Lost – October 10, 2019

[Jesus told them this parable] “Suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one. Doesn’t she light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.’ In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
Luke 15:8-10

Jesus Loves the Lost


Daily Devotion – October 10, 2019

Devotion based on Luke 15:8-10

See series: Devotions

Keys, cell phones, toys, computer files. We all lose things from time to time. How carefully we look for them may indicate how valuable they are to us. When I was eight or nine years old, my parents had recently bought me a new baseball glove. One day I couldn’t find it. I didn’t know where it was. My dad was not happy with me, mostly because I didn’t seem to care that I had lost my new glove and wasn’t too concerned about finding it. My attitude seemed to show that I didn’t value my lost glove.

A popular Christian hymn says, “I once was lost but now am found.” When Jesus told the story about a lost coin, he was comparing us to that lost coin. The disobedient hearts we inherited from our parents lead us to wander away from God. The Bible describes us as spiritually lost. Jesus could have just written us off. It was our fault, not his, that we were lost. But Jesus loved us more than that.

He went out of his way to find us. He came down from heaven “to seek and to save the lost.” He found us in our sin and saved us by taking our place under God’s judgment. And when our hearts lead us to keep running away from God and into sin, Jesus keeps seeking us.

In his Word, Jesus shows us how our sins offend God. Then, he shows us the forgiving love that brought him to earth to save us. With that two-fold message, he picks us up from the dust and draws us to himself, where he wants us to stay forever. And with his angels, he rejoices that we have been found and freed from sin and death. How much he loves us!

Prayer:
How much you love me, Lord, to seek me and find me whenever I’m lost. 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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This Man Welcomes Sinners – October 9, 2019

Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.”
Luke 15:1,2

This Man Welcomes Sinners


Daily Devotion – October 9, 2019

Devotion based on Luke 15:1,2

See series: Devotions

My oldest daughter started high school this fall. Though I am thankful that she can attend a Christian high school, I still grow concerned as a father. I know that she is a sinner like me. I know that her judgment, like mine, is not always perfectly wise. I know that the devil has his sights set on her, ready to unleash his flaming arrows. He wants to lay traps of temptation for her that, perhaps, I never faced in my youth.

One of the important pieces of advice that we parents give our children is to choose their friends carefully. Whom you will spend time with—no matter how old you are—can make a big difference in how much you leave yourself open to Satan’s attacks.

As I think about the verses in today’s text, I wonder if I would have wanted my daughter to be hanging around with Jesus and the people he spent time with. These were people who were known for immoral living. No self-respecting prophet would associate with them. No godly parent would let his children be around them.

Or would they? Jesus saw such people and loved them. He didn’t condone or encourage their immorality. He called their sin, sin. He lovingly and patiently called them to confess their wrongs, receive his forgiveness, and live a new life of faith.

By spending time with them, Jesus was showing love for their souls lost in sin, the unconditional love that we so desperately need. If Jesus only loved certain sinners, why would I think he loves me? But Jesus wants all sinners to turn from their sins and be saved. He came to love me and forgive me. And he calls me to love others, as I have been loved.

May God lead our children to choose wisely those with whom they will spend their time. And may God give to our children and to us a heart that rejoices in his boundless love and reflects that love to all people.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, friend of sinners, as you have loved and forgiven me, lead me to love and forgive others. 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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Jesus Came to Save Sinners – October 8, 2019

Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst.
1 Timothy 1:15

Jesus Came to Save Sinners


Daily Devotion – October 8, 2019

Devotion based on 1 Timothy 1:15

See series: Devotions

Media outlets often report the sins that people have committed against one another and the latest ways that sin has ravaged our world. How can people do such things to one another? And how can God put up with it and not destroy our wicked world?

But here is an amazing truth that God wants us to know: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.”

To fully understand what it means that Christ Jesus came to save sinners, take off a week of work, and go and sit in a police station or courthouse. You’ll see the evening news close up and personal. But Christ Jesus came to save sinners. Christ Jesus came to save every one of those people whose heinous crimes land them in prison—every one of them.

Or maybe try this. Instead of watching the news go out and buy a big mirror. Prop it up in front of your TV. Then, every time you watch TV or even walk by the TV, you will see a sinner whom Christ Jesus came to save.

You see, God doesn’t give us his law to show us all of the bad people around us. He wants his commands to make us realize how much we have disobeyed him in our attitude and actions. Even that pride that makes us look down on others is a sin that is worthy of God’s judgment.

When God’s law has done its work, God’s love is so much more amazing. I’m a sinner, but because of Jesus, God considers me a saint. I’m a slave to sin, but God sets me free. I’m worthy of death, but God gives me life.

God’s forgiving love has no limits. No matter how great my guilt, Jesus came to save me. Neither my past nor my present is beyond the reach of his mercy. Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—to save me. What unimaginable love!

Prayer:
Jesus, I’m a sinner. I’m no better than anyone else. But you came to save me—even me! Accept my humble praise now and always. 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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Faithful Love – October 7, 2019

The LORD said to me, “Go, show your love to your wife again, though she is loved by another man and is an adulteress. Love her as the LORD loves the Israelites, though they turn to other gods.”
Hosea 3:1

Faithful Love


Daily Devotion – October 7, 2019

Devotion based on Hosea 3:1

See series: Devotions

Hosea was a messenger for the Lord in a dark time in the history of the nation of Israel. The Lord had shown loyal love to the Israelite people, but they turned their backs on him. They knew the only true God, but they chose to serve and worship false gods conceived in the minds of man.

But the Lord loved them. He wanted them to know and trust him. He wanted them to be his people and enjoy his blessings forever. So he sent prophets to warn them and try to win them back.

One of those prophets was Hosea. The Lord not only told Hosea what to say to people. He also commanded Hosea to live in a way that would speak a powerful message to them.

The Lord commanded Hosea to marry a woman named Gomer. She was a prostitute. She used her body in ways that offended God and mocked his gift of marriage. When Gomer married Hosea, that didn’t change. She was unfaithful to her husband, just as Israel was unfaithful to the Lord.

But the Lord told Hosea to take Gomer back and love her again. And Hosea did. He even paid a price to get her back, knowing very well that she would probably be unfaithful again.

Hosea’s life teaches us about our God’s unconditional love. We are unfaithful to the Lord every time we disobey him. Our actions reveal that we often love ourselves and our world more than the Lord.

But the Lord does not give up on us. He does not stop loving us. Jesus came to pay a price to free us from our sinful life and its deadly consequences. The price he paid was his own innocent life. He patiently brought us back to him and loved us with his perfect, selfless love.

Though we are often unfaithful, the Lord’s faithfulness never fails. His commitment never wavers. Your Lord will always love you, always forgive you, always welcome you back.

Prayer:
Lord, may your faithful love for me move me to serve and worship you faithfully. 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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Jesus Gets Rid of Every Spot and Stain – October 6, 2019

“Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me.”
Psalm 51:1-3

Jesus Gets Rid of Every Spot and Stain


Daily Devotion – October 6, 2019

Devotion based on Psalm 51:1-3

See series: Devotions

“How will I ever get that clean again, young man?” This cry has gone out more than once when a young child comes in covered with dirt and grass stains. It doesn’t matter what detergent you use. You’ve tried them all. Pre-soaks? Bleach? They just don’t work as well as they are advertised.

David, the writer of Psalm 51, also had trouble cleaning away some dirt. But the dirt and stains he was worried about were not on his clothes or under his fingernails. David, the King of Israel and leader of God’s people, had committed some terrible sins. He had sex with another man’s wife. When David found out his girlfriend was pregnant, he arranged to have her husband murdered.

For a while, David told himself these things didn’t matter. But they did! His conscience bothered him constantly. He couldn’t sleep or eat. He knew he was “dirty.” His dirt, however, could never be taken away with soap or cleaners. There was only one place he could go to get clean.

David took his sins to the Lord and pleaded, “Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.” David knew that sin was a stain that could only be cleansed through God’s forgiveness.

In mercy God sent the Savior for David and for all of us, and “the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin” (1 Peter 1:7). What a relief it is to know that Jesus gets out every “dirty spot!” What a joy it is to know that through God’s forgiveness all our sins are washed away! Thank you, Jesus!

Prayer:
Dear Lord, be merciful to me. As you have so richly forgiven me, continue to send me your Holy Spirit, that I may not fall from faith but remain your child forever. 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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Worth It – October 5, 2019

Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus…
Philemon 1:1

Worth It


Daily Devotion – October 5, 2019

Devotion based on Philemon 1:1

See series: Devotions

In the world of social psychology, the name of Dr. Craig Haney is a familiar one. In particular, Dr. Haney has become well-known for his research on prisoners and prison systems. From his research, he has concluded that typical prisoners will have to grapple with a number of psychological issues—issues that often come along with the reality of confinement.

For example, one issue is the prisoners’ understandable sense of dependence on those who are keeping them confined—something that can threaten to wear them down in negative ways as time goes on. Another can be a diminished sense of self-worth and personal value. This, in turn, can lead to social withdrawal and isolation. According to Dr. Haney, these are just some of the challenges that typical prisoners must be ready to face.

During his ministry, the apostle Paul learned what it meant to be a prisoner. Two times he endured extended confinement. As he did, no doubt he faced the very challenges that Dr. Haney details in his research. No doubt there were moments when he wrestled fiercely with the psychological and emotional issues that can vex a person in a prison setting.

Nevertheless, Paul accepted these consequences. He knew that it was his proclamation of Jesus that had landed him in prison. Even more important, he knew what he possessed through faith in Christ as his Savior from sin. As a result, he knew that any burdens he bore as a prisoner were all worth it.

As Christians, you and I bear burdens too. Satan makes us a target. He does all he can to distract us, to discourage us, to bring us difficulty and hardship. And we too have our share of wrestling matches with all the unpleasantness he can bring.

But just as Paul accepted the life of a prisoner, you and I can accept the burdens that come our way. We can accept them because we know what we have in Jesus. We know that, through faith in him, there is forgiveness, peace, purpose, life, light, eternal joy.

And that makes any temporary burdens well worth it.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, when Satan tries to use the temporary difficulties of my life to discourage me, remind me of all I possess through faith in 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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