scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org – Page 20

Looking Ahead to the NEW Hymnal – Fall 2021

March 11, 2021March 11, 2021 scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org

Bulletin – March 7, 2021

March 5, 2021March 5, 2021 scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org

The 3^rd Sunday in Lent

Jesus Rescues Us From God’s Law

St. John’s & Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Churches

Montello & Mecan, WI

March 6, 2021

4:30p.m. St. John’s

March 7, 2021

8a.m. Emmanuel

10a.m. St. John’s

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

Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Church
W1568 Evergreen Lane Montello, WI 53949

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

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

GOD’S WORD FOR TODAY Today’s theme: The 3^rd Sunday in Lent: Jesus Rescues Us From God’s Law – For centuries Christians have spent Lent meditating on Jesus’ suffering and death, which atoned for our guilt. Lent is the “serious season” of the church year in which we put extra emphasis on recognizing and confessing our own sins. Congregations with special mid-week services usually keep a somber, reflective tone. The Sundays in Lent, however, serve as “mini Easters;” their readings and hymns bring comfort to the believers who are reflecting on their sins and Jesus’ passion. The third Sunday in Lent reminds us of God’s perfect law and his demand that we fear and love him. Thankfully, Jesus has fulfilled God’s law in our place.

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

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

PASTOR’S WELCOME, ANNOUNCEMENTS, AND PRAYER BEFORE WORSHIP

M: O Lord God my Creator and Savior–I have come before you to hear your holy Word and offer you my prayers and hymns of praise. Open my heart by your Holy Spirit, that through the preaching of your Word I may repent of my sins, believe in Jesus, and grow day by day in grace and holiness. Compelled by Christ’s love for me, help me serve Him and share Him with others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

† G A T H E R I N G R I T E O N T H E W O R D O F G O D †

God’s people long ago gather together for strength from God and for mutual encouragement. This alternate beginning for worship may be used on any occasion to remind God’s people of the blessings of his Word.

Please stand.

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

C: Amen.

HYMN 221: 1 Blessed Jesus, at Your Word

*Sung by soloist.

1 Blessed Jesus, at your Word We are gathered all to hear you.

Let our hearts and souls be stirred Now to seek and love and fear you,

By your teachings, sweet and holy, Drawn from earth to love you solely.

M: Oh, how I love your law!

C: I meditate on it all day long.

M: Your commands make me wiser than my enemies,

C: for they are ever with me.

M: I have more insight than all my teachers,

C: for I meditate on your statutes.

M: How sweet are your words to my taste,

C: sweeter than honey to my mouth!

HYMN 221: 2 Blessed Jesus, at Your Word

*Sung by soloist.

2 All our knowledge, sense, and sight Lie in deepest darkness shrouded

Till your Spirit breaks our night With the beams of truth unclouded.

You alone to God can win us; You must work all good within us.

M: All scripture is God- breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,

C: so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Tim. 3:16,17

M: Yet so often we have despised God’s Word and failed to gladly hear and learn it. For this and all our sins, we bow before God and humbly ask his forgiveness.

C: Holy and merciful Father, I confess that I am by nature sinful and that I have disobeyed you in my thoughts, words and actions. I have done what is evil and failed to do what is good. For this I deserve your punishment both now and in eternity. But I am truly sorry for my sins, and trusting in my Savior Jesus Christ, I pray: Lord, have mercy on me, a sinner.

HYMN 221: 3 Blessed Jesus, at Your Word

*Sung by soloist.

3 Gracious Savior, good and kind, Light from Light, from God proceeding,

Open now our heart and mind; Help us by your Spirit’s pleading.

Hear the cry your people raises; Hear and bless our prayers and praises.

M: God gave his Word so ”that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name” (John 20:31). The Scriptures testify about Jesus, who lived a perfect life for you, died on the cross to pay for all your sins, and rose again to assure you of your salvation. 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: (spoken) Amen.

HYMN 221: 4 Blessed Jesus, at Your Word

*Sung by soloist.

4 Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, Praise to you and adoration!

Grant that we your Word may trust, Confident of our salvation,

While we here below must wander, Till we sing your praises yonder.

PRAYER OF THE DAY

M: Almighty God, look with favor on your humble servants and stretch out the right hand of your power to defend us against all our enemies; through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Be seated.

† T H E W O R D †

This service offers the congregation a form of worship that focuses on the proclamation of God’s Word. Believers respond to this divine gift with prayer, praise, and thanksgiving.

FIRST LESSON Exodus 20:1-17

Summary: At Mt. Sinai God gives Moses the Ten Commandments–a summary of His Law

And God spoke all these words: “I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.

“You shall have no other gods before me.

“You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments.

“You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.

“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates. For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.

“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you.

“You shall not murder.

“You shall not commit adultery.

“You shall not steal.

“You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.

“You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.”

PSALM 19

*For your personal devotion at home.

Refrain

Lord, you have the words of everlasting life.

The heavens declare the glory of God;*

the skies proclaim the work of his hands.

Their voice goes out into all the earth,*

their words to the ends of the world.

Refrain

The law of the LORD is perfect,*

giving joy to the heart.

The commands of the LORD are radiant,*

giving light to the eyes.

They are more precious than gold;*

they are sweeter than honey.

By them is your servant taught;*

in keeping them there is great reward.

Refrain

May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart*

be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Redeemer.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son*

and to the Holy Spirit,

as it was in the beginning,*

is now, and will be forever. Amen.

Refrain

EPISTLE LESSON 1 Corinthians 1:22-25

Summary: The preaching of the cross is God’s wisdom

Jews demand miraculous signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than man’s wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man’s strength.

VERSE OF THE DAY John 3: 14, 15

M: Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.

Please stand.

GOSPEL LESSON John 2:13-22 (today’s sermon text)

Summary: Jesus clears the temple–a call to repentance

When it was almost time for the Jewish Passover, Jesus went up to Jerusalem. In the temple courts he found men selling cattle, sheep and doves, and others sitting at tables exchanging money. So he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple area, both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables. To those who sold doves he said, “Get these out of here! How dare you turn my Father’s house into a market!”

His disciples remembered that it is written: “Zeal for your house will consume me.”

Then the Jews demanded of him, “What miraculous sign can you show us to prove your authority to do all this?”

Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days.”

The Jews replied, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and you are going to raise it in three days?” But the temple he had spoken of was his body. After he was raised from the dead, his disciples recalled what he had said. Then they believed the Scripture and the words that Jesus had spoken.

Be seated.

SERMON HYMN 774 Church of God, Elect and Glorious

*Sung by soloist.

SERMON John 2: 13-22

“JESUS CLEANS HOUSE!”

His cleaning puts us under God’s spotlight (v. 13-17)
His cleansing brings us into God’s love-light (v. 18-22)

APOSTLES’ CREED

*For your personal devotion at home.

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

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

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

LENTEN SEASON PRAYER & INTERCESSORY PRAYERS

*Read by pastor.

Please stand.

LORD’S PRAYER

*Spoken by congregation.

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

CLOSING PRAYER

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

BLESSING

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

The Lord bless you and keep you.

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

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

CLOSING HYMN 530 Hark! The Church Proclaims Her Honor

*Sung by congregation.

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

X A N N O U N C E M E N T S X

March 7 – March 13

Sun.	8:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Worship
	10:00 a.m.	St. John’s Worship
Mon.	9:00 a.m.	Pastors Study Club – Wautoma
	6:30 p.m.	Joint Council meeting at Emmanuel
Tues.	8:00 a.m.	School Chapel
	6:00 p.m.	School Board meeting at St. John’s
Wed.	11:40 a.m.	School & Little Lambs Early Release
	10:00 a.m.	Public School 8^th Grade Confirmation Zoom meeting
	3:30 p.m.	Emmanuel Lenten Devotion
	6:30 p.m.	St. John’s Lenten Devotion
Thurs.	8:00 a.m.	St. John’s Teen Confirmation
	6:00 p.m.	Griefshare at St. John’s
Fri.		No School – Luther Prep Musical
Sat.	4:30 p.m.	St. John’s Worship with communion
*Next week’s theme:* *March 14, 2021* The Fourth Sunday in Lent: Faith Looks To Jesus
	Daylight Saving Time
8:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Worship with communion
10:00 a.m.	St. John’s Worship with communion

INTERCESSORY PRAYERS (read by pastor)

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

– For pastors and teachers

– For God’s people who are under spiritual attack

Church News

SPRING MISSION OFFERINGS are being collected by the Lutheran Women’s Missionary Society throughout March.Containers are located in the entrance at both St. John’s and Emmanuel—Please give your gift at the church where you are a member. 75% of gifts given will support Beaver Dam Circuit projects—HM/Pastoral Studies Institute & WM/Latin America Special Projects. 25% of gifts given will support home & world mission projects that will be decided by ballot in May and will be presented at the 2021 LWMS Convention, June 24-27, in Sharonville, Ohio. Gifts welcome from all who love missions!

EMMANUEL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING HIGHLIGHTS There are no new council members to report. 1) Parish Flooring updates:
The Parish Hall flooring project is on hold pending reduced COVID-19 risks.
2) Update on survey of Church West property line. This project is still in process but is close to completion.
3) Internet capability: Starlink Satellite Internet is now available for the Emmanuel location. The council will determine the next if any steps to be taken.
4) Robert Schrank estate update: As a result of decreased staffing capability caused by COVID-19, a necessary IRS tax review still needs to be completed however the estate transfer is still in process.
5) Well update:
The casing has been installed leaving the pump, plumbing, and electrical connection for completion. Because these items must be installed into a hand dug trench, a thawed ground will be necessary.
6) Election of 2020 officers: All elected for another term.
a) President – Incumbent – Darrell Buchholz
b) Treasurer – Incumbent – Wayne Stelter
c) Secretary – Incumbent – Lucas Stelter
d) Trustee – Don Stelter
e) Cemetery committee member – Joe Heller
f) Darrell Buchholz will represent Emmanuel as a lay-delegate for any Synod Convention related meetings on July 26-29, 2021.
6) The Emmanuel congregation approved a donation of $500 for the following school wish list items listed in the bulletin:
* Little Lambs Stacking Pegboard Set
* Geoboards
* Rollee Pollee Nap Sac
* iPad covers
* Handheld Vacuum
* Magnetic book holder

School news

DR. SEUSS WEEK! Be sure to check out our school Facebook page for pictures from this week!

FREE MEAL SIGNUP FOR SCHOOL FAMILIES ONLY Hello School Families! Please find the link on our school Facebook page to sign up for free meals. Breakfast and lunch included! The offer is good until May. Meals will be dropped off on Wednesdays at St. John’s.

WISHLIST ITEMS
Little Lambs –
Kindergarten, 1^st & 2^nd Grade –
3^rd, 4^th & 5^th Grade –
6^th , 7^th & 8^th Grade –Tuition Assistance

LIST OF DEDICICATED ACCOUNTS Want to make a donation and know exactly where your money is going?! Here is a list of accounts between St. John’s Church and School that you can choose from: Church General School General House/Parking Lot Family Easter Festival Sunday School Vacation Bible School School Technology Church Video/Audio System Security System Tuition Assistance Athletic Fund Outreach Events School Server Upgrade School HVAC/Purifying System

Due to COVID, we are unable to hold our annual Art For Dinner fundraiser. In place of this year’s event, we will be doing a school/congregation cookbook along with St. John’s goodies that will be for sale. The AFD committee is working with the students to create a design that will be printed on these items.

For the cookbook, we are asking the congregation to submit a recipe they would like included in the cookbook to Ciara in the school office BY MARCH 15.

All proceeds will go to the school’s technology fund in hopes to upgrade the student’s chrome books. This will be our only fundraiser for this year. Talk to the school office about order forms for the cookbook and how to make donations to this year’s fundraiser. We would like to thank everyone that has helped support Art For Dinner in the past. We are hopeful that the dinner can take place again in the future.

–Art For Dinner Committee

………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Lent is the six week observance of the “passion” of Christ, that is, his suffering and death for our sins and the eternal rescue of all! The Church traditionally observes Lent with midweek worship that helps point to and prepares God’s people for Holy Week and Easter.

There will be 3:30pm worship at Emmanuel with Pastor Dolan leading.

Also, there is 6:30pm worship at St. John’s led by Pastor Zietlow and the pastors of our nearby sister congregations.

The Scripture devotions will talk about “The Hands of Lent.”

The 3:30pm Emmanuel worship will be recorded and be made available for viewing on the St. John’s website, stjohnsmontello.org.

Divine Jesus Rescues Us From God’s Law

The Third Sunday in Lent – B

God’s Word for Today

The season of Lent has historically been a time for Christians to meditate on Jesus’ passion. His suffering and death atoned for the sins we committed. Therefore, Lent is the “serious season” of the church year where we Christians put an extra emphasis on recognizing and confessing our own sins. Congregations that have special mid-week services are able to make the tone somber and reflective. The Sundays in Lent, however, serve as “mini Easters” where the readings and hymns bring joy and comfort to the believer who is reflecting on his/her own sins and Jesus’ passion during this season. The third Sunday in Lent reminds us of God’s perfect law and his holy demand that we fear and love him. Thankfully, Jesus has fulfilled God’s law in our place.

First Lesson (Exodus 20:1-17)

Why does God remind the Israelites that he brought them out of Egypt before giving the Ten Commandments?
Since God already wrote his commandments on our hearts, why did he etch them on stone (and in the Bible) for us?

Second Lesson (1 Corinthians 1:22-25)

How is Christ crucified “foolishness” to many people?
What is the essence of a Christian’s message to the world?

Gospel (John 2:13-22)

Why do you think the Jewish leaders allowed the buying and selling of animals in the temple courts?
How do you know that Jesus wasn’t sinning by angrily overturning the tables and driving out the moneychangers?
Why are Jesus’ words in v. 19 significant?

………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Answers:

The holy God who demands we keep his commandments wants an attitude of love and trust on the part of his children. His law cannot instill that love and trust, but only his gospel can. By reminding the Israelites of how he rescued them from Egypt, he is putting in the forefront of their mind his love and mercy. For us, it reminds us that this holy God sent Jesus to rescue us from our sins.
Since the human heart is darkened or calloused by our own sin and the sin around us, we need God’s law written down – in detail – for us so we know exactly what his will is.
Later in this letter Paul explains that people don’t naturally understand or believe in Jesus, but only by the Holy Spirit can people recognize God’s wisdom in sending Jesus. Without the Holy Spirit, the message of Jesus dying on a cross to save us makes no sense. With the Holy Spirit, we see God’s wisdom and love in providing the perfect Savior.
“Christ crucified” is the heart of the gospel. The only way sinners can stand before a holy God is if their sins are removed. The only way sins are removed is by Christ being crucified for us.
As is often the case today, monetary profit becomes more important than the integrity of worshiping the true God.
What was at stake was the glory and honor of God. His temple was to be a place for worship, not business transactions. God the Father often displayed this righteous anger in the Old Testament. Scripture makes it clear that in his entire life, Jesus never sinned (Hebrews 4:15).
Our Savior predicted his own resurrection from the dead. He truly is God and keeps his Word. That truth gives us imperfect creatures hope and comfort. Only God can save us; Jesus is God. He has rescued us! (see Romans 4:25)

Attendance	Emmanuel	St. John’s
2-27		23
2-28	40	71
3-3	?	29
St. John’s Altar Committee March 2021	Delores Cotte & Diane Eisermann

●●●
Welcome To Our Visitors!
Find & Like us on Facebook Visit our website: www.stjohnsmontello.org
Pastor Peter Zietlow: (608) 408-7830, E-mail: zietlowPL6@hotmail.com Little Lambs Director & Teacher Mrs. Lynn Sellnow: 616-826-0816
K, 1^st& 2^nd Grade Teacher Ms. Shelley Myers: 920-285-7554
3^rd-5^th Grade Teacher Ms. Katlynn Tindall: 262-352-7021
Principal & 6^th – 8^th Grade Teacher Mr. Larry Sellnow: 616-822-6689, Email: principal@stjohnsmontello.org
Church & School Secretary/Office Ciara Neuhauser: (608) 297-2866 Church & School Address/Mail: 313 E Montello St, Montello, WI 53949 Church & School E-mail: scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org
●●●

Bulletin – February 28, 2021

February 28, 2021February 28, 2021 scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org

The 2^nd Sunday in Lent

Jesus Calls Us To Follow Him

St. John’s & Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Churches

Montello & Mecan, WI

February 27, 2021

4:30p.m. St. John’s

February 28, 2021

8a.m. Emmanuel

10a.m. St. John’s

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

Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Church
W1568 Evergreen LaneMontello, WI 53949

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

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

GOD’S WORD FOR TODAY Today’s theme: Jesus Calls Us To Follow Him – To follow Jesus, we must carry our cross. This means our faith will bring us severe burdens and shame. But through Jesus’ cross, we have such good news: Heaven is open! We can rejoice in our sufferings! By losing our lives for Jesus, we will find them!

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

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

Worshipers are kindly asked to maintain social distancing and wear masks. Thank you for your consideration. Please refer to our church website or our church Information Room for a full description of our special COVID protocol.

The congregation is welcome to join in singing the closing hymn. Anyone who wishes to leave prior may do so.

PASTOR’S WELCOME, ANNOUNCEMENTS, AND PRAYER BEFORE WORSHIP

M: Heavenly Father, I have come to worship you. Draw near to me in your gracious Word, and assure me of your loving kindness. Curb my wandering thoughts, that with undivided attention I may hear your voice and sing your praise in your gracious Word and Sacrament. Amen.

OPENING HYMN 224 God Himself Is Present

*Sung by soloist.

Please stand.

INVOCATION

M: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you.

C: And also with you.

CONFESSION & ABSOLUTION

M: We have come into the presence of God, who created us to love and serve him as his dear children. But we have disobeyed him and deserve only his wrath and punishment. Therefore, let us confess our sins to him and plead for his mercy.

C: Merciful Father in heaven, I am altogether sinful from birth. In countless ways I have sinned against you and do not deserve to be called your child. But trusting in Jesus, my Savior, I pray: Have mercy on me according to your unfailing love. Cleanse me from my sin, and take away my guilt.

M: God, our heavenly Father, has forgiven all your sins. By the perfect life and innocent death of our Lord, Jesus Christ, he has removed your guilt forever. You are his own dear child. May God give you strength to live according to his will.

C: Amen.

PRAYER OF THE DAY

P: Almighty God, you see that we have no power to defend ourselves. Guard and keep us both outwardly and inwardly from all adversities that may happen to the body and from all evil thoughts that may assault and hurt the soul; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Please be seated.

† T H E W O R D †

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

THE FIRST LESSON Genesis 28:10-17 (today’s sermon text)

Summary: The Lord promises His presence as we follow Him

Jacob left Beersheba and set out for Haran. When he reached a certain place, he stopped for the night because the sun had set. Taking one of the stones there, he put it under his head and lay down to sleep. He had a dream in which he saw a stairway resting on the earth, with its top reaching to heaven, and the angels of God were ascending and descending on it. There above it stood the LORD, and he said: “I am the LORD, the God of your father Abraham and the God of Isaac. I will give you and your descendants the land on which you are lying. Your descendants will be like the dust of the earth, and you will spread out to the west and to the east, to the north and to the south. All peoples on earth will be blessed through you and your offspring. I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.”

When Jacob awoke from his sleep, he thought, “Surely the LORD is in this place, and I was not aware of it.” He was afraid and said, “How awesome is this place! This is none other than the house of God; this is the gate of heaven.”

PSALM OF THE DAY 25

*For your personal devotion at home.

Refrain

To you, O Lord, I lift my soul; in you I trust, my God.

To you, O LORD, I lift up my soul;*

in you I trust, O my God.

Remember, O LORD, your great mercy and love,*

for they are from of old.

Remember not the sins of my youth and my rebellious ways;*

according to your love remember me,

for you are good, O LORD.

Refrain

Turn to me and be gracious to me,*

for I am lonely and afflicted.

Look upon my affliction and my distress*

and take away all my sins.

Guard my life and rescue me,*

for I take refuge in you.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son*

and to the Holy Spirit,

as it was in the beginning,*

is now, and will be forever. Amen.

Refrain

THE SECOND LESSON Romans 5:1-11

Summary: Through Christ’s sacrifice we have new status with God

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.

You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! For if, when we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.

VERSE OF THE DAY Philippians 2:8b

P: Jesus humbled himself and became obedient to death, even death on a cross.

Please stand.

GOSPEL LESSON Mark 8:31-38

Summary: Take up your cross and follow Christ

He then began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, chief priests and teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and after three days rise again. He spoke plainly about this, and Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him.

But when Jesus turned and looked at his disciples, he rebuked Peter. “Get behind me, Satan!” he said. “You do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men.”

Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it. What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul? If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.”

Please be seated.

HYMN 765 Day by Day

*,.

SERMON Genesis 28:10-17

“Remember Me, O Lord!”

1. With your promises

2. With your protection

NICENE CREED

*For your personal devotion at home

We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen. We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father,

God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one being with the Father. Through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation, he came down from heaven,

was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the virgin Mary, and became fully human. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate. He suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end. We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who in unity with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. We believe in one holy Christian and apostolic Church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. Amen.

LENTEN SEASON PRAYER & INTERCESSORY PRAYERS

Please stand.

LORD’S PRAYER

*Spoken by congregation.

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

THE CELEBRATION OF HOLY COMMUNION

Invitation

Words of Institution

Distribution

Thanksgiving

Please be seated.

At St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church & Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Church we practice closed Communion. If you are a guest at worship today and interested in receiving the Lord’s Supper, please speak with the pastor prior to the service. See page 13 for communion schedule and distribution information.

Please stand

CLOSING PRAYER

P: Thank you, Lord Jesus Christ, for nourishing me in this sacrament with your body and blood. You have given me forgiveness, life and salvation. Let me always remain in you as a branch remains in the vine. Send me out in the power of your Spirit to live and work to your praise and glory.

O living Bread from heaven, how richly you have fed your guest! The gifts you now have given have filled my heart with joy and rest. Lord, grant me that thus strengthened with heavenly food, while here my course on earth is lengthened, I serve with holy fear. And when you call my spirit to leave this world below, I enter through your merit where joys unmingled flow. Amen.

BLESSING

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

The Lord bless you and keep you.

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

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

CLOSING HYMN 422 Jesus, Lead Us On

*Sung by congregation.

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

† A N N O U N C E M E N T S †

February 28 – March 6

Sun.	8:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Worship with communion
	10:00 a.m.	St. John’s Worship with communion
Mon.	1:00 p.m.	Hand In Prayer meeting at St. John’s
Tues.	8:00 a.m.	School Chapel
	9:00 a.m.	Joint Elders meeting at St. John’s
Wed.	11:40 a.m.	School & Little Lambs early release
	3:30 p.m.	Emmanuel Lenten Devotion
	6:30 p.m.	St. John’s Lenten Devotion
Thurs.	6:00 p.m.	Griefshare at St. John’s
Fri.
Sat.	4:30 p.m.	St. John’s Worship
*Next week’s theme:* *March 7, 2021* The Third Sunday in Lent: Repent!
8:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Worship
10:00 a.m.	St. John’s Worship

Church News

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

2021 OFFERING ENVELOPES are ready for pick up in St. John’s link way. If you weren’t assigned a box and you would like one, please call Ciara in the office 608-297-2866 or let Pastor Zietlow know.

2020 OFFERING STATEMENTS Each member has received a statement via snail mail. No need to sign up. If you need a replacement, please call the office.

OFFERING PLATE Just a reminder that the offering plate is located in the entry way (front doors) at St. John’s. We care about your health and safety and are currently still not passing the plates around. You may also mail in your offering at 313 E Montello St. Thank you!

ST. JOHN’S LADIES AID The next meeting will be on March 4. 1:00 P.M. in the church.

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

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

School news

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

FREE MEAL SIGNUP FOR SCHOOL FAMILIES ONLY Hello School Families! Please find the link on our school Facebook page to sign up for free meals. If we are physically in school, you may still signup. Breakfast and lunch included!

WISHLIST ITEMS
Little Lambs

Kindergarten, 1^st & 2^nd Grade

3^rd, 4^th & 5^th Grade

6^th , 7^th & 8^th Grade – Tuition Assistance

LIST OF DEDICATED ACCOUNTS Want to make a donation and know exactly where your money is going? Here is a list of accounts between St. John’s Church and School that you can choose from:

Church General
School General
House/Parking Lot
Family Easter Festival
Sunday School
Vacation Bible School
School Technology
Church Video/Audio System
Security System
Tuition Assistance
Athletic Fund
Outreach Events
School Server Upgrade
School HVAC/Purifying System

There will be 3:30pm worship at Emmanuel with Pastor Dolan leading.

Also, there is 6:30pm worship at St. John’s led by Pastor Zietlow and the pastors of our nearby sister congregations.

The Scripture devotions will talk about “The Hands of Lent.”

The 3:30pm Emmanuel worship will be recorded and be made available for viewing on the St. John’s website, stjohnsmontello.org.

Jesus Calls Us to Follow Him

The Second Sunday in Lent – B

God’s Word for Today

To follow Jesus we must carry our cross. This means our faith will bring us severe burdens and shame. But through Jesus’ cross we have such good news: Heaven is open! We can rejoice in our sufferings! By losing our lives for Jesus, we will find them!

First Lesson (Genesis 28:10-17)

1. Whom did Jacob see on the stairway? Above it?

2. What promises did Jacob receive which include you?

Second Lesson (Romans 5:1-11)

3. What amazing gifts do we receive by trusting that Jesus died for our sins? (Verses 1-2)

4. Why do we rejoice in our sufferings? Isn’t that a bizarre way to act? (Verse 3)

5. In Christ, what three things are no longer true about us? (Verses 6, 8, 10)

Gospel (Mark 8:31-38)

6. Why did Jesus have to suffer and die? (Verse 31)

7. When Jesus told Peter, “Get behind me, Satan!” he didn’t mean Satan had taken total control of him and made Peter helpless. What did Jesus mean?

8. Why is trying to become rich apart from God such a poor choice?

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

Answers:

1. God’s holy angels were going up and down on the stairway. The Lord God himself was at the top of the stairway.

2. a) God is the God of all believers, both dead (Abraham) and alive (Isaac and Jacob). Even dead believers are alive with God! b) With all people on earth, we are blessed in Jesus with a holy Savior. c) God will keep all his promises to us, for Jesus’ sake.

3. We stand innocent before God in his court. We have peace toward God. We have entrance into God’s grace. We rejoice because we are sure that we will share glory with God forever.

4. It might surprise the rest of the world, but rejoicing in our sufferings fits with faith in God’s promises. We know that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance produces proven character, and proven character produces confident hope of eternal life.

5. We were powerless; we were sinners; we were God’s enemies. Relying on Jesus’ blood, we’re none of those things anymore in God’s sight. We have God’s strength. We are holy in God’s sight. We are God’s friends.

6. He said so. God the Father told him so. God the Spirit said so in the Old Testament in many places. There was no other way we could have eternal life. “For the joy set before him” Jesus endured the cross and scorned its shame (Hebrews 12:2). His joy was seeing us sinners receive the gift of eternal life.

7. He meant that for Peter to try to keep Jesus from dying for us was Satanic. If Jesus hadn’t died for us, we would all have spent eternity with the devil in hell.

8. Even if we gain the whole world, it won’t do us any good if we lose our souls and end up in eternal fire, body and soul.

Attendance	Emmanuel	St. John’s
2-20
2-21
2-24
St. John’s Altar CommitteeFebruary 2021	Kay Maass & Jennie Utke

●●●
Welcome To Our Visitors!
Find & Like us on Facebook
Visit our website: www.stjohnsmontello.org
Pastor Peter Zietlow: (608) 408-7830,
E-mail: zietlowPL6@hotmail.com
Little Lambs Director & Teacher Mrs. Lynn Sellnow: 616-826-0816
K, 1^st& 2^nd Grade Teacher Ms. Shelley Myers: 920-285-7554
3^rd-5^th Grade Teacher Ms. Katlynn Tindall: 262-352-7021
Principal & 6^th – 8^th Grade Teacher Mr. Larry Sellnow:
616-822-6689,Email: principal@stjohnsmontello.org
Church & School Secretary/Office Ciara Neuhauser:
(608) 297-2866
Church & School Address/Mail:
313 E Montello St, Montello, WI 53949
Church & School E-mail: scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org
●●●

Bulletin – February 21, 2021

February 19, 2021February 19, 2021 scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org

The 1^st Sunday in Lent

Jesus Defeats the Devil

St. John’s & Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Churches

Montello & Mecan, WI

February 20, 2021

4:30p.m. St. John’s

February 21, 2021

8:00a.m. Emmanuel

10:00a.m. St. John’s

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

Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Church
W1568 Evergreen Lane Montello, WI 53949

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

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

GOD’S WORD FOR TODAY Today’s theme: The 1^st Sunday in Lent: Jesus Defeats the Devil – In Lent we see Jesus go to the cross to suffer and die for us. Today’s lessons show that when God tests us and the devil tempts us (every day!), Jesus is our holiness before God. He is also our strength, and our example. We do not live on bread alone, Jesus says. We live on God’s promises. They come to us in holy baptism, in Holy Communion, and straight from the Bible¾ the book in which every word is from the mouth of God.

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

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

The congregation is welcome to join in singing the closing hymn. Anyone who wishes to leave prior may do so.

PASTOR’S WELCOME, ANNOUNCEMENTS, AND PRAYER BEFORE WORSHIP

OPENING HYMN 106 Come to Calvary’s Holy Mountain

* Sung by soloist.

Please stand.

INVOCATION

M: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship fo the Holy Spirit be with you.

C: And also with you.

CONFESSION & ABSOLUTION

C: Amen.

PRAYER OF THE DAY

P: Lord our strength, the battle of good and evil rages within and around us, and our ancient foe tempts us with his deceits and empty promises. Keep us steadfast in your Word, and when we fall, raise us up again and restore us through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Please be seated.

† T H E W O R D †

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

FIRST LESSON Genesis 22:1-18 (today’s sermon text)

Summary: Abraham’s test of faith

Sometime later God tested Abraham. He said to him, “Abraham!”

“Here I am,” he replied.

Then God said, “Take your son, your only son, Isaac, whom you love, and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will tell you about.”

Early the next morning Abraham got up and saddled his donkey. He took with him two of his servants and his son Isaac. When he had cut enough wood for the burnt offering, he set out for the place God had told him about. On the third day Abraham looked up and saw the place in the distance. He said to his servants, “Stay here with the donkey while I and the boy go over there. We will worship and then we will come back to you.”

Abraham took the wood for the burnt offering and placed it on his son Isaac, and he himself carried the fire and the knife. As the two of them went on together, Isaac spoke up and said to his father Abraham, “Father?”

“Yes, my son?” Abraham replied. “The fire and wood are here,” Isaac said, “but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?”

Abraham answered, “God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” And the two of them went on together.

When they reached the place God had told him about, Abraham built an altar there and arranged the wood on it. He bound his son Isaac and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood. Then he reached out his hand and took the knife to slay his son. But the angel of the LORD called out to him from heaven, “Abraham! Abraham!”

“Here I am,” he replied.

“Do not lay a hand on the boy,” he said. “Do not do anything to him. Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son, your only son.”

Abraham looked up and there in a thicket he saw a ram caught by its horns. He went over and took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering instead of his son. So Abraham called that place The LORD Will Provide. And to this day it is said, “On the mountain of the LORD it will be provided.”

The angel of the LORD called to Abraham from heaven a second time and said, “I swear by myself, declares the LORD, that because you have done this and have not withheld your son, your only son, I will surely bless you and make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as the sand on the seashore. Your descendants will take possession of the cities of their enemies, and through your offspring all nations on earth will be blessed, because you have obeyed me.”

Then Abraham returned to his servants, and they set off together for Beersheba. And Abraham stayed in Beersheba.

PSALM 6

*For your personal devotion at home.

Refrain

Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world;

have mercy on us.

O LORD, do not rebuke me in your anger*

or discipline me in your wrath.

Be merciful to me, LORD, for I am faint;*

O LORD, heal me, for my soul is in anguish.

Turn, O LORD, and deliver me;*

save me because of your unfailing love.

Refrain

I am worn out from groaning.*

My eyes grow weak with sorrow.

Away from me, all you who do evil,*

for the LORD has heard my weeping.

The LORD has heard my cry for mercy;*

the LORD accepts my prayer.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son*

and to the Holy Spirit,

as it was in the beginning,*

is now, and will be forever. Amen.

Refrain

EPISTLE LESSON Romans 8:31-39

Summary: We are more than conquerors

What then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: “For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.”

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

VERSE OF THE DAY Matthew 4:10b

M: It is written: “Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.”

Please stand.

GOSPEL LESSON Mark 1:12-15

Summary: The temptation of Jesus

At once the Spirit sent him out into the desert, and he was in the desert forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and angels attended him.

After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!

Be seated.

SERMON HYMN 431:1,2, 5,6 I Walk in Danger All the Way

* Sung by soloist.

SERMON Genesis 22:1-18

“Believing Can Be a Struggle”

APOSTLES’ CREED

*For your personal devotion at home.

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

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.

LENTEN SEASON PRAYER & INTERCESSORY PRAYERS

*Read by pastor, prayers on page 12.

Please stand.

LORD’S PRAYER

*Spoken by congregation.

CLOSING PRAYER

BLESSING

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

The Lord bless you and keep you.

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

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

CLOSING HYMN 402:1,2 My Faith Looks Up to Thee

*Sung by congregation.

† A N N O U N C E M E N T S †

February 21 – February 27

Sun.	8:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Worship
	9:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Congregational meeting
	10:00 a.m.	St. John’s Worship
Mon.
Tues.	8:00 a.m.	School Chapel
Wed.	11:40 a.m.	School & Little Lambs early release
	3:30 p.m.	Emmanuel Lenten Devotion
	6:30 p.m.	St. John’s Lenten Devotion
Thurs.	6:00 p.m.	Griefshare at St. John’s
	6:30 p.m.	Joint Worship meeting at St. John’s
Fri.		No school
Sat.	4:30 p.m.	St. John’s Worship with communion
*Next week’s theme:* *February 28, 2021* The Second Sunday in Lent: Follow Christ Crucified
8:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Worship with communion
10:00 a.m.	St. John’s Worship with communion

Church News

INTERCESSORY PRAYERS (read by pastor) – For those hospitalized, ill, shut-in and facing trials: Jim & Caryl Bassett, Pat Bornick, Glenn Buchholz, Bob Buehrens, Darlene Burrough (Judy Fandrey’s niece), Ben Coyle (Sue brown’s nephew), Gene & Sharon Crook, Liola Crown, Roberta Davison (Beth John’s daughter), Jerre Duerr, Reinold Eckelberg, Ken Elmer, Mike Farrell, Kelleen Grucza (Judy Fandrey’s daughter), Louise Hillmer, Jerry & Darlene Hunter (Bonnie Chapman’s parents), Wesley & brother Xzander Jahr, Eleanor Kendall, Geri Kerl, Julie Klawitter, Betty Kozlowski, Robert Lederer (Jackie & Jeanne Buchholz’ father), Jenell Mann, Lilly Mann, Delvin Mittelsteadt, Kathy Ninneman, Barbara Petrick, Al Pompa (Pete & Lucy Laun’s brother-in-law), Karen Radke, LuAnn Reber, Jeff Reimer, David Scharf, Roxanne Schmanke, Don Smith Jr. (the son of Don & Doris Smith), Doris Smith, Carol Stempniak, Jennifer Strauss, Ramona Wacholtz (Dennis’ wife), Dixie Wagner, John Wildt, Harold & brother Paul Wuerch – (added this week: Don Smith (son)) – For Betty Weber who celebrated her 81st birthday on 2/1

2021 OFFERING ENVELOPES are ready for pick up in St. John’s link way.If you weren’t assigned a box and you would like one, please call Ciara in the office 608-297-2866 or let Pastor Zietlow know.

2020 OFFERING STATEMENTS Each member has received a statement via snail mail. No need to sign up. If you need a replacement, please call the office.

OFFERING PLATE Just a reminder that the offering plate is located in the entry way (front doors) at St. John’s. We care about your health and safety and are currently still not passing the plates around. You may also mail in your offering at 313 E Montello St. Thank you!

ST. JOHN’S LADIES AID The next meeting will be on March 4. 1:00 P.M. in the church.

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

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

School news

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

FREE MEAL SIGNUP FOR SCHOOL FAMILIES ONLY Hello School Families! Please find the link on our school Facebook page to sign up for free meals. If we are physically in school, you may still signup. Breakfast and lunch included!

WISHLIST ITEMS
Little Lambs Stacking Pegboard Set $19.99 (1) Geoboards $20.30 (will find out) Rollee Pollee Nap Sac (set of 6) $113.70

Kindergarten, 1^st & 2^nd Grade iPad covers – $15.98 (12)

3^rd, 4^th & 5^th Grade Handheld Vaccuum – $47.31 (1) Magnetic book holder – $23.79 (1)

6^th , 7^th & 8^th Grade Tuition Assistance

The Lenten season has begun. Lent is the six week observance of the “passion” of Christ, that is, his suffering and death for our sins and the eternal rescue of all! The Church traditionally observes Lent with midweek worship that helps point to and prepares God’s people for Holy Week and Easter.

There will be 3:30pm worship at Emmanuel with Pastor Dolan leading.

Also, there is 6:30pm worship at St. John’s led by Pastor Zietlow and the pastors of our nearby sister congregations.

The Scripture devotions will talk about “The Hands of Lent.”

The 3:30pm Emmanuel worship will be recorded and be made available for viewing on the St. John’s website, stjohnsmontello.org.

Jesus Defeats the Devil

The First Sunday in Lent – B

God’s Word for Today

In Lent we see Jesus go to the cross to suffer and die for us. Today’s lessons show that when God tests us and the devil tempts us (every day!), Jesus is our holiness before God. He is also our strength, and our example. We do not live on bread alone, Jesus says. We live on God’s promises. They come to us in holy baptism, in holy communion, and straight from the Bible¾ the book in which every word is from the mouth of God.

First Lesson (Genesis 22:1-18)

Abraham believed God would somehow quickly raise Isaac from the dead. How did he show this to his servants?
Who is the Angel of the Lord?
By what two unchangeable things, which he said to Abraham, did God encourage us to trust in Jesus?

Second Lesson (Romans 8:31-39)

What do we have to endure, for God’s sake? (Verse 36)
Do we conquer in Christ now, forever, or both? (Verse 37)
Where is God’s love? (Verse 39)

Gospel (Mark 1:12-15)

Who sent Jesus into the desert to be tempted?
Wild animals in stadiums threatened some of Mark’s first readers. What comfort did Jesus’ temptation give them?

………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Answers:

See the end of verse 6. Abraham assured his servants that after he and Isaac worshiped atop Mt. Moriah, they would both come back down the mountain.
He is God himself. The proof is in verses 12 and 16, where the Angel of the Lord clearly speaks of himself as God.
1 Corinthians 10:4 says that the Angel of the Lord was Christ. This doesn’t mean Jesus is a created angel; “angel” in both Hebrew and Greek means “messenger.” Even before he became man, the Son of God was the Father’s messenger to us.
See Hebrews 6:18. God both made a promise to Abraham, and swore by himself. What could be surer?
We get killed all day long, so to speak. We suffer great grief and pain. Paul says this by quoting from Psalm 44:22.
Both. In all our troubles we are more than conquerors, not just after all our troubles.
It is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Since Jesus lives forever, God’s love for us will never end.
God the Holy Spirit. We can take comfort that the devil never tempts us unless God allows it.
When Jesus was tempted in the desert he too was with the wild animals. He overcame all temptations by the same Word that steadied the hearts of martyrs whom Roman officials fed to lions. No matter how God allows us to be tempted, he will always make a way out for us
(1 Corinthians 10:13).

Attendance	Emmanuel	St. John’s
2-13		15
2-14	14	38
2-17	28	25
St. John’s Altar Committee February 2021	Kay Maass & Jennie Utke

●●●
Welcome To Our Visitors!
Find & Like us on Facebook
Visit our website: www.stjohnsmontello.org
Pastor Peter Zietlow: (608) 408-7830, E-mail: zietlowPL6@hotmail.com Little Lambs Director & Teacher Mrs. Lynn Sellnow: 616-826-0816
K, 1^st& 2^nd Grade Teacher Ms. Shelley Myers: 920-285-7554
3^rd-5^th Grade Teacher Ms. Katlynn Tindall: 262-352-7021
Principal & 6^th – 8^th Grade Teacher Mr. Larry Sellnow: 616-822-6689, Email: principal@stjohnsmontello.org
Church & School Secretary/Office Ciara Neuhauser: (608) 297-2866 Church & School Address/Mail: 313 E Montello St, Montello, WI 53949 Church & School E-mail: scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org
●●●

Bulletin – February 14, 2021

February 10, 2021February 10, 2021 scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org

The Transfiguration of Our Lord

Jesus Reveals His Future Glory

St. John’s & Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Churches

Montello & Mecan, WI

February 13, 2021

4:30p.m. St. John’s

February 14, 2021

8a.m. Emmanuel

10a.m. St. John’s

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

Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Church
W1568 Evergreen Lane Montello, WI 53949

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

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

GOD’S WORD FOR TODAY Today’s theme: Jesus Reveals His Future Glory – The Transfiguration of Our Lord – There was only one time recorded in Scripture when Jesus revealed his future glory before his resurrection. That one time was on the Mount of Transfiguration, where Peter, James and John had a firsthand (and terrifying) look at Jesus’ perfect glory. Why did Jesus do this? He did it to give his disciples a glimpse at what the future holds for all believers. They were about to enter a difficult time as disciples. They would see their Messiah crucified. But future glory would follow!

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

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

The congregation is welcome to join in singing the closing hymn. Anyone who wishes to leave prior may do so.

PASTOR’S WELCOME, ANNOUNCEMENTS, AND PRAYER BEFORE WORSHIP

M: Almighty God, you have filled us with the new light of the Word who became flesh and lived among us. Let the light of our faith shine in all that we say and do. Through the good news of Jesus in Word and Sacrament, come to us. Forgive our sins, strengthen our faith. Fill our hearts with your Holy Spirit and our lives with peace and joy. Live in us that we might live for you and tell others about you in word and deed. Bless our worship. Amen.

OPENING HYMN 95 How Good, Lord, to Be Here

*Sung by soloist.

Please stand.

INVOCATION

M: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship fo the Holy Spirit be with you.

C: And also with you.

CONFESSION & ABSOLUTION

M: Lord God, before the suffering and death of your one and only Son, you revealed his glory on the holy mountain. Grant that we who bear his cross on earth may behold by faith the light of his heavenly glory and so be changed into his likeness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

C: Amen.

PRAYER OF THE DAY

P: Almighty God, you sent your Son to proclaim your kingdom and to teach with authority. Anoint us with the power of your Spirit that we, too, may bring good news to the afflicted, bind up the brokenhearted, and proclaim liberty to the captive; through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Please be seated.

† T H E W O R D †

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

THE FIRST LESSON 2 Kings 2:1-12

Summary: Elijah ascends to heaven

When the LORD was about to take Elijah up to heaven in a whirlwind, Elijah and Elisha were on their way from Gilgal. Elijah said to Elisha, “Stay here; the LORD has sent me to Bethel.” But Elisha said, “As surely as the LORD lives and as you live, I will not leave you.” So they went down to Bethel. The company of the prophets at Bethel came out to Elisha and asked, “Do you know that the LORD is going to take your master from you today?” “Yes, I know,” Elisha replied, “but do not speak of it.” Then Elijah said to him, “Stay here, Elisha; the LORD has sent me to Jericho.” And he replied, “As surely as the LORD lives and as you live, I will not leave you.” So they went to Jericho. The company of the prophets at Jericho went up to Elisha and asked him, “Do you know that the LORD is going to take your master from you today?” “Yes, I know,” he replied, “but do not speak of it.” Then Elijah said to him, “Stay here; the LORD has sent me to the Jordan.” And he replied, “As surely as the LORD lives and as you live, I will not leave you.” So the two of them walked on. Fifty men of the company of the prophets went and stood at a distance, facing the place where Elijah and Elisha had stopped at the Jordan. Elijah took his cloak, rolled it up and struck the water with it. The water divided to the right and to the left, and the two of them crossed over on dry ground. When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, “Tell me, what can I do for you before I am taken from you?” “Let me inherit a double portion of your spirit,” Elisha replied. “You have asked a difficult thing,” Elijah said, “yet if you see me when I am taken from you it will be yours―otherwise not.” As they were walking along and talking together, suddenly a 4 chariot of fire and horses of fire appeared and separated the two of them, and Elijah went up to heaven in a whirlwind. Elisha saw this and cried out, “My father! My father! The chariots and horsemen of Israel!” And Elisha saw him no more.

PSALM OF THE DAY 148

*For your personal devotion at home.

Refrain

Forever let us sing the goodness of the Lord.

Praise the LORD from the heavens,*

praise him in the heights above.

Praise him, all his angels,*

praise him, all his heavenly hosts.

Praise him, sun and moon,*

praise him, all you shining stars.

Refrain

Praise the LORD from the earth,*

lightning and hail, stormy winds that do his bidding,

you mountains and all hills, fruit trees and all cedars,*

wild animals and all cattle, small creatures and flying birds,

kings of the earth and all rulers on earth,*

young men and maidens, old men and children.

Let them praise the name of the LORD,*

for his splendor is above the earth and the heavens.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son*

and to the Holy Spirit,

as it was in the beginning,*

is now, and will be forever. Amen.

Refrain

THE SECOND LESSON 2 Corinthians 3:12–4:2 (today’s sermon text)

Summary: The veil of Moses

Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold. We are not like Moses, who would put a veil over his face to keep the Israelites from gazing at it while the radiance was fading away. But their minds were made dull, for to this day the same veil remains when the old covenant is read. It has not been removed, because only in Christ is it taken away. Even to this day when Moses is read, a veil covers their hearts. But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. Therefore, since through God’s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.

VERSE OF THE DAY Mark 9:7b

P: Alleluia! A voice came from the cloud: “This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him.” Alleluia.

Please stand.

GOSPEL LESSON Mark 9:2-9

Summary:The transfiguration of our Lord

After six days Jesus took Peter, James and John with him and led them up a high mountain, where they were all alone. There he was transfigured before them. His clothes became dazzling white, whiter than anyone in the world could bleach them. And there appeared before them Elijah and Moses, who were talking with Jesus. Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here. Let us put up three shelters—one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.” (He did not know what to say, they were so frightened.) Then a cloud appeared and enveloped them, and a voice came from the cloud: “This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him!” Suddenly, when they looked around, they no longer saw anyone with them except Jesus. As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus gave them orders not to tell anyone what they had seen until the Son of Man had risen from the dead.

Please be seated.

HYMN 712 Jesus, Take Us to the Mountain

*Sung by soloist.

SERMON 2 Corinthians 3:12 – 4:2

“The Veil of Moses”

Worn to keep old glory from fading
Torn to show new glory unfailing

NICENE CREED

*For your personal devotion at home.

God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one being with the Father. Through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation, he came down from heaven,

TRANSFIGURATION SUNDAY PRAYER & INTERCESSORY PRAYERS

*Bulletin page 12.

Please stand.

LORD’S PRAYER

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

THE CELEBRATION OF HOLY COMMUNION

Invitation

Words of Institution

Distribution

Thanksgiving

Please be seated.

CLOSING PRAYER

BLESSING

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

The Lord bless you and keep you.

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

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

Please stand.

† F A R E W E L L T O A L L E L U I A †

M: Brothers and sisters in Christ, when we next gather for worship, it will be Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. On that day we will begin our solemn journey to the Savior’s cross. While the joy of faith remains undiminished throughout the year, our rejoicing during Lent is muted and quiet. For centuries, therefore, the Christian churches have omitted their most jubilant songs during this season, including the word alleluia, which means, “praise the Lord.”

Now for a time we say farewell to alleluia. We do this to prepare ourselves for the quieter days of Lent. The alleluias will return on Easter dawn as we gather to shout our praise to the risen Lord.

ALLELUIA, SONG OF TRIUMPH

*Congregation sings to the tune of CW 578 “Saints of God, the Dawn Is Brightening”.

Alleluia, song of triumph, sound of joy that cannot die;

Alleluia is the anthem ever dear to choirs on high;

Saints adorned in robes of glory join the great angelic cry.

Alleluia we are singing, voicing hymns in pure accord,

With Christ’s holy Church united, justified, redeemed, restored,

And with all his faithful people raise our songs to praise the Lord.

Alleluia cannot always be our song while here below;

Alleluia our transgressions make us for a while forego.

For the solemn time is coming when our tears for sin must flow.

May our hymns be filled with longing—hear us, Holy Trinity—

As we look to your blest Easter, here, and then eternally,

When we shall once more be singing alleluia joyfully!

† A N N O U N C E M E N T S †

February 14 – February 20

Sun.		VALENTINE’S DAY
	8:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Worship with communion
	9:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Congregational meeting
	10:00 a.m.	St. John’s Worship with communion
Mon.
Tues.	8:00 a.m.	School Chapel
	6:00 p.m.	School Board meeting at St. John’s
	6:30 p.m.	Adult Bible Study at Emmanuel (final)
Wed.		ASH WEDNESDAY
		No School
	3:30 p.m.	Emmanuel Lenten Devotion
	6:30 p.m.	St. John’s Lenten Devotion
Thurs.	1:45-3:00 p.m.	Little Lambs & Grade School Shut-In Outreach Fieldtrip
	6:00p.m.	Griefshare at St. John’s
	6:30 p.m.	St. John’s Council meeting
Fri.
Sat.	4:30 p.m.	St. John’s Worship
*Next week’s theme:-* *February 21, 2021* The First Sunday in Lent: Overcoming Temptations; Growing Through Tests
8:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Worship
10:00 a.m.	St. John’s Worship

Church News

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

ST. JOHN’S VOTERS’ MEETING HIGHLIGHTS Membership Changes: Transfer in: Reid Barnhart from St. Peter’s, Helenville, WI. Rejoin: Brianna Dunning. Profession of Faith: Brad & June Kahlstorf from ELCA Church in Minnesota. Principal’s Report: Current enrollment: 10 in Little Lambs & 44 in K-8. AV Project Upgrade-Two 85-inch TVs will replace the screen. Livestreaming will take place, and recording of services will be easier. Facility Master Plan-Committee to be appointed to explore needs of church/school for the next 5-20 years. Update at April meeting. Election–School Board: Zeb Zuehls. Council: Jacob Jaster & Aaron Wachholz. Thank you to all who have served and are currently serving.

2021 OFFERING ENVELOPES are ready for pick up in St. John’s link way.If you weren’t assigned a box and you would like one, please call Ciara in the office 608-297-2866 or let Pastor Zietlow know.

2020 OFFERING STATEMENTS Each member has received a statement via snail mail. No need to sign up.

OFFERING PLATE Just a reminder that the offering plate is located in the entry way (front doors) at St. John’s. We care about your health and safety and are currently still not passing the plates around. You may also mail in your offering at 313 E Montello St. Thank you!

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

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

School news

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

FREE MEAL SIGNUP FOR SCHOOL FAMILIES ONLY Hello School Families! The public school is offering 5 days’ worth of breakfast and lunch meal kits to our children 18 years and younger of age. Any of our families may sign up, virtual or physical. St. John’s School meals will be dropped off at school on Wednesdays and available for you to pick up when you pick up your child at the end of the school day. As of right now these meals are free to all school families through May 2021!

WISHLIST ITEMS
Little Lambs Stacking Pegboard Set $19.99 Geoboards $20.30

Kindergarten, 1^st & 2^nd Grade iPad covers

3^rd, 4^th & 5^th Grade Handheld Vaccuum – $47.31 Document camera – $69.00 Magnetic book holder – $23.79 Stadium seats – $49.99

6^th , 7^th & 8^th Grade Tuition Assistance

This coming Wednesday, February 17, is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of the holy season of Lent. Lent is the six week observance of the “passion” of Christ, that is, his suffering and death for our sins and the eternal rescue of all! The Church traditionally observes Lent with midweek worship that helps point to and prepare God’s people for Holy Week and Easter.

There will be 3:30pm worship at Emmanuel with Pastor Dolan leading.

Also, there is 6:30pm worship at St. John’s led by Pastor Zietlow and the pastors of our nearby sister congregations.

The Scripture devotions will talk about “The Hands of Lent.”

The 3:30pm Emmanuel worship will be recorded and be made available for viewing on the St. John’s website, stjohnsmontello.org.

Jesus Reveals His Future Glory

The Last Sunday after the Epiphany – B

The Transfiguration of Our Lord

God’s Word for Today

There was only one time recorded in Scripture when Jesus revealed his future glory before his resurrection. That one time was on the Mount of Transfiguration, where Peter, James and John had a firsthand (and terrifying) look at Jesus’ perfect glory. Why did Jesus do this? He did it to give his disciples a glimpse at what the future holds for all believers. They were about to enter a difficult time as disciples. They would see their Messiah crucified. But future glory would follow!

First Lesson (2 Kings 2:1-12a)

Why was Elisha upset?
What request did Elisha have for Elijah?
How was Elijah taken away into heaven?

Second Lesson (2 Corinthians 3:12 – 4:2)

To which Old Testament event does Paul refer in this lesson?
True or false: The old covenant (the law) is more glorious than the new covenant (the gospel).
As ministers of the glorious gospel, how do we proceed in our mission?

Gospel (Mark 9:2-9)

Who met Jesus and his disciples when they climbed this high mountain?
Why did Peter make the suggestion he did in verse 5?

Answers:

He realized that his master, Elijah, was going to be taken away from him.
Elisha asked Elijah for a double portion of Eiljah’s spirit. He knew he would need spiritual strength when Elijah was gone.
Elijah was taken to heaven in whirlwind, a chariot and horses made of fire.
When Moses returned from Mt. Sinai and his face shone because he had seen a portion of the Lord’s glory. Moses put a veil over his face because the people couldn’t stand to look at him. Paul says that the stubborn Jews who rejected Jesus as Savior still have a veil over their hearts.

False. The law brings sin, guilt and death to sinful people. It is glorious because the law is truth and shows us that God is holy and perfect. But, Paul says, that the gospel is more glorious because it brings freedom from sin, life and salvation (cf. 2 Co 3:10, 17-18).
We don’t need to use trickery or slight of hand. We don’t need to distort the word of God. Instead, we set forth the truth plainly and trust that God works life and salvation through the simple gospel. There’s no need to manipulate the truth to make it more acceptable; glory comes only through the truth of the gospel.
They met Moses and Elijah, who were generally considered by the Jews to be the two greatest prophets in the Old Testament.
Peter wanted to build shelters on the mountain for Jesus, Moses and Elijah, in order to keep the glory of God all to themselves. Mark the Evangelist suggests that Peter was speaking foolishly. Jesus needed to head for Jerusalem, where he would suffer death on a cross to secure eternal glory for his followers (verse 9).

Attendance	Emmanuel	St. John’s
2-6		22
2-7	18	48
St. John’s Altar Committee February 2021	Kay Maass & Jennie Utke

●●●
Welcome To Our Visitors!
Find & Like us on Facebook
Visit our website: www.stjohnsmontello.org
Pastor Peter Zietlow: (608) 408-7830, E-mail: zietlowPL6@hotmail.com Little Lambs Director & Teacher Mrs. Lynn Sellnow: 616-826-0816
K, 1^st& 2^nd Grade Teacher Ms. Shelley Myers: 920-285-7554
3^rd-5^th Grade Teacher Ms. Katlynn Tindall: 262-352-7021
Principal & 6^th – 8^th Grade Teacher Mr. Larry Sellnow: 616-822-6689, Email: principal@stjohnsmontello.org
Church & School Secretary/Office Ciara Neuhauser: (608) 297-2866 Church & School Address/Mail: 313 E Montello St, Montello, WI 53949 Church & School E-mail: scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org
●●●

School Year Theme Song for Feb. 7 Bulletin – “God is the Strength of My Heart”

February 5, 2021February 5, 2021 scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org

Bulletin – Feb. 7 St. John’s

February 5, 2021February 5, 2021 scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org

The 5^th Sunday after the Epiphany

Jesus Heals the Hopeless

St. John’s & Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Churches

Montello & Mecan, WI

February 7, 2021

10:00a.m. St. John’s

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

Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Church
W1568 Evergreen Lane Montello, WI 53949

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

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

GOD’S WORD FOR TODAY Today’s theme: The 5^th Sunday after the Epiphany: Jesus Heals the Hopeless- Jesus is Revealed by A Tireless Compulsion to Preach the Gospel – Have you ever felt compelled to do or say something because you’re a Christian? Sometimes that compulsion springs from feelings of guilt. Sadly, that can even be true of our gospel outreach efforts. Such guilt-ridden efforts burn us out and leave us feeling unfulfilled, guiltier. But Jesus doesn’t want us to feel guilty about his Great Commission, and he doesn’t want us to reach out with the gospel due to guilt. Instead it’s the freedom of the gospel that inspires our words and actions as Christians. As we more deeply appreciate the unconditional love that Jesus has for us and for all people, we will more and more feel a tireless compulsion to preach the gospel.

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

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

The congregation is welcome to join in singing the closing hymn. Anyone who wishes to leave prior may do so.

PASTOR’S WELCOME, ANNOUNCEMENTS, AND PRAYER BEFORE WORSHIP

† H O L Y B A P T I S M †

This order incorporates Holy Baptism into congregational worship by combining the sacrament of baptism with the confession of sins. Martin Luther said that confessing sins and receiving forgiveness is nothing else than a reliving of baptism. Thus this order provides opportunity not only to baptize but also to recall the lasting blessings of baptism.

OPENING HYMN 737: 1-3 God’s Own Child, I Gladly Say It

*Sung by soloist.

1 God’s own child, I gladly say it:

I am baptized into Christ!

He, because I could not pay it,

Gave my full redemption price.

Do I need earth’s treasures many?

I have one worth more than any

That brought me salvation free,

Lasting to eternity!

2 Sin, disturb my soul no longer:

I am baptized into Christ!

I have comfort even stronger:

Jesus’ cleansing sacrifice.

Should a guilty conscience seize me

Since my baptism did release me

In a dear forgiving flood,

Sprinkling me with Jesus’ blood?

3 Satan, hear this proclamation:

I am baptized into Christ!

Drop your ugly accusation;

I am not so soon enticed.

Now that to the font I’ve traveled,

All your might has come unraveled,

And, against your tyranny,

God, my Lord, unites with me!

M:The grace of our Lord (+) Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you.

C: And also with you.

CONFESSION OF SINS

M:Our Savior Jesus Christ commanded baptism when he said: “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” All of us are born into this world with a deep need for baptism. From our parents we inherit a sinful nature; we are without true fear of God and true faith in God and are condemned to eternal death. But Jesus took away our sin by giving his life on the cross. At our baptism he clothes us with the robe of his righteousness and gives us a new life. Our sinful nature need not control us any longer. We recall what baptism means for our daily lives as we speak these words:

C: Baptism means that the sinful nature in us should be drowned by daily sorrow and repentance, and that all its evil deeds and desires be put to death. It also means that a new person should daily arise to live before God in righteousness and purity forever.

M:As baptized children of God we confess our sins:

C: Holy and merciful Father, I confess that I am by nature sinful, and that I have disobeyed you in my thoughts, words, and actions. I have done what is evil and failed to do what is good. For this I deserve your punishment both now and in eternity. But I am truly sorry for my sins, and trusting in my Savior Jesus Christ, I pray: Lord, have mercy on me, a sinner.

M:God, our heavenly Father, has been merciful to us and has given his only Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins. 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.

The Rite of Baptism continues at the font.

SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM

M:In obedience to the command of our Lord and trusting in his promise, you have brought this child to be baptized. Jesus told us: “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” It is in baptism that God grants the new life of forgiveness, joy, and peace to little children. By the power of God’s Word, this gracious water of life washes away sin, delivers from death and the devil, and gives eternal salvation to all who believe.

M: Receive the sign of the cross on the head and heart † to mark you as a redeemed child of Christ.

M: ____, I baptize you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

The Almighty God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—has forgiven all your sins. By your baptism, you are born again and made a dear child of your Father in heaven. May God strengthen you to live in your baptismal grace all the days of your life. Peace be with you.

Please stand.

EXHORTATION

M:Brothers and sisters in Christ:

Our Lord commands that we teach his precious truths to all who are baptized. Christian love therefore urges all of us, especially parents and sponsors, to assist in whatever manner possible so that ____ may remain a child of God until death. If you are willing to carry out this responsibility, then answer: Yes, as God gives me strength.

C: Yes, as God gives me strength.

M:Let us pray:

Merciful Father in heaven, we thank you for the blessing of baptism by which you offer and grant the forgiveness of sins, life, and salvation. Help us to regard our baptism as the robe of righteousness we are to wear all the days of our life. Look with special favor on ____ and grant him a rich measure of your Spirit that he may grow in faith and godly living. Make us willing to carry out our responsibilities to those who have been baptized, so that all of us may finally come to the blessed joys of heaven, through Jesus our Lord.

C: Amen.

Please be seated.

HYMN 737: 4-5 God’s Own Child, I Gladly Say It

*Sung by soloist.

4 Death, you cannot end my gladness:

I am baptized into Christ!

When I die, I leave all sadness

To inherit paradise!

Though I lie in dust and ashes

Faith’s assurance brightly flashes:

Baptism has the strength divine

To make life immortal mine.

5 There is nothing worth comparing

To this lifelong comfort sure!

Open-eyed my grave is staring:

Even there I’ll sleep secure.

Though my flesh awaits its raising,

Still my soul continues praising:

I am baptized into Christ;

I’m a child of paradise!

PRAYER OF THE DAY

P: Almighty God, you sent your one and only Son as the Word of life for our eyes to see and our ears to hear. Help us to believe what the Scriptures proclaim about him and do the things that are pleasing in your sight; through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Please be seated.

† T H E W O R D †

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

FIRST LESSON Job 7: 1-7

Summary: Tired and depressed, Job lost his desire to proclaim the good news and nearly lost his faith

“Do not mortals have hard service on earth? Are not their days like those of hired laborers? Like a slave longing for the evening shadows, or a hired laborer waiting to be paid, so I have been allotted months of futility, and nights of misery have been assigned to me. When I lie down I think, ‘How long before I get up?’ The night drags on, and I toss and turn until dawn. My body is clothed with worms and scabs, my skin is broken and festering. “My days are swifter than a weaver’s shuttle,
and they come to an end without hope. Remember, O God, that my life is but a breath; my eyes will never see happiness again.

PSALM 103

*For your personal devotion at home.

Refrain

I will hear what the Lord proclaims: peace to his people.

Praise the LORD, O my soul;*

all my inmost being, praise his holy name.

He forgives all your sins*

and heals all your diseases;

he redeems your life from the grave*

and crowns you with love and compassion.

Refrain

The LORD is compassionate and gracious,*

slow to anger, abounding in love.

He does not treat us as our sins deserve*

or repay us according to our iniquities.

For as high as the heavens are above the earth,*

so great is his love for those who fear him;

as far as the east is from the west,*

so far has he removed our transgressions from us.

Refrain

As a father has compassion on his children,*

so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him;

for he knows how we are formed,*

he remembers that we are dust.

Our days are like grass, like a flower of the field;*

the wind blows over it and it is gone.

But the LORD’S love is with those who fear him*

from everlasting to everlasting.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son*

and to the Holy Spirit,

as it was in the beginning,*

is now, and will be forever. Amen.

Refrain

EPISTLE LESSON 1 Corinthians 9: 16-23

Summary: Christ’s love for sinners was Paul’s motivation to preach the gospel and become all things to all men

For when I preach the gospel, I cannot boast, since I am compelled to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! If I preach voluntarily, I have a reward; if not voluntarily, I am simply discharging the trust committed to me. What then is my reward? Just this: that in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, and so not make full use of my rights as a preacher of the gospel.

Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law. To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God’s law but am under Christ’s law), so as to win those not having the law. To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.

VERSE OF THE DAY John 8: 12

M: Alleluia. Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” Alleluia.

Please stand.

GOSPEL LESSON Mark 1: 29-39 (today’s sermon text)

Summary: Worn out and looking for solitude, Jesus shows his tireless compulsion to preach the good news

As soon as they left the synagogue, they went with James and John to the home of Simon and Andrew. Simon’s mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they immediately told Jesus about her. So he went to her, took her hand and helped her up. The fever left her and she began to wait on them.

That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon-possessed. The whole town gathered at the door, and Jesus healed many who had various diseases. He also drove out many demons, but he would not let the demons speak because they knew who he was.

Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Simon and his companions went to look for him, and when they found him, they exclaimed: “Everyone is looking for you!”

Jesus replied, “Let us go somewhere else—to the nearby villages—so I can preach there also. That is why I have come.” So he travelled throughout Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving out demons.

Be seated.

SCHOOL THEME SONG God is the Strength of My Heart

*See insert. Sung by soloist.

SERMON Mark 1: 29-39

“Epiphany Miracles with a Purpose”

They showed Jesus’ power over disease (29-31)
They proved his authority over the devil (32-34)
They pointed to his message of salvation (35-39)

APOSTLES’ CREED

*For your personal devotion at home.

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

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.

EPIPHANY SEASON PRAYER & INTERCESSORY PRAYERS

*Read by pastor, prayers on page 12.

Please stand.

LORD’S PRAYER

*Spoken by congregation.

CLOSING PRAYER

BLESSING

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

The Lord bless you and keep you.

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

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

CLOSING HYMN 446 I Am Trusting You, Lord Jesus

*Sung by congregation.

† A N N O U N C E M E N T S †

February 7 – February 13

Sun.	8:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Worship
	9:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Congregational meeting
	10:00 a.m.	St. John’s Worship
Mon.	8:00 a.m.	Pastor’s Study Club – Princeton
Tues.	8:00 a.m.	School Chapel
	6:00 p.m.	School Board meeting at St. John’s
	6:30 p.m.	Adult Bible Study at Emmanuel
Wed.		Little Lambs & Grade School Outreach Fieldtrip
	11:40 a.m.	School & Little Lambs early release
Thurs.		No school P/T Conferences
	6:00p.m.	Griefshare at St. John’s
Fri.		No school P/T Conferences
Sat.	4:30 p.m.	St. John’s Worship with communion
*Next week’s theme:-* *February 14, 2021* The Transfiguration of our Lord
	Valentine’s Day
8:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Worship with communion
10:00 a.m.	St. John’s Worship with communion

Church News

INTERCESSORY PRAYERS (read by pastor) – For those hospitalized, ill, shut-in and facing trials: Jim & Caryl Bassett, Pat Bornick, Glenn Buchholz, Bob Buehrens, Darlene Burrough (Judy Fandrey’s niece), Ben Coyle (Sue brown’s nephew), Gene & Sharon Crook, Liola Crown, Roberta Davison (Beth John’s daughter), Jerre Duerr, Reinold Eckelberg, Ken Elmer, Mike Farrell, Kelleen Grucza (Judy Fandrey’s daughter), Louise Hillmer, Jerry & Darlene Hunter (Bonnie Chapman’s parents), Wesley & brother Xzander Jahr, Eleanor Kendall, Geri Kerl, Julie Klawitter, Betty Kozlowski, Robert Lederer (Jackie & Jeanne Buchholz’ father), Jenell Mann, Lilly Mann, Delvin Mittelsteadt, Kathy Ninneman, Barbara Petrick, Al Pompa (Pete & Lucy Laun’s brother-in-law), Karen Radke, LuAnn Reber, Jeff Reimer, David Scharf, Roxanne Schmanke, Doris Smith, Carol Stempniak, Jennifer Strauss, Ramona Wacholtz (Dennis’ wife), Dixie Wagner, John Wildt, Harold & brother Paul Wuerch – (added this week: Reinold Eckelberg) – For Kendall Ryan Ross, the infant daughther of Michael Ross & Sarah Bubolz, baptized in Sunday’s (2/7) service at St. John’s – For our WELS schools

ST. JOHN’S VOTERS’ MEETING HIGHLIGHTS Membership Changes: Transfer in: Reid Barnhart from St. Peter’s, Helenville, WI. Rejoin: Brianna Dunning. Profession of Faith: Brad & June Kahlstorf from ELCA Church in Minnesota. Principal’s Report: Current enrollment: 10 in Little Lambs & 44 in K-8. AV Project Upgrade-Two 85-inch TVs will replace the screen. Livestreaming will take place, and recording of services will be easier. Facility Master Plan-Committee to be appointed to explore needs of church/school for the next 5-20 years. Update at April meeting. Election–School Board: Zeb Zuehls. Council: Jacob Jaster & Aaron Wachholz. Thank you to all who have served and are currently serving.

2021 OFFERING ENVELOPES are ready for pick up in St. John’s link way.If you weren’t assigned a box and you would like one, please call Ciara in the office 608-297-2866 or let Pastor Zietlow know.

2020 OFFERING STATEMENTS Each member has received a statement via snail mail. No need to sign up.

OFFERING PLATE Just a reminder that the offering plate is located in the entry way (front doors) at St. John’s. We care about your health and safety and are currently still not passing the plates around. You may also mail in your offering at 313 E Montello St. Thank you!

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

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

School news

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

FREE MEAL SIGNUP FOR SCHOOL FAMILIES ONLY Hello School Families! Please find the link on our school Facebook page to sign up for free meals. if we are physically in school, you may still signup. Breakfast and lunch included!

WISHLIST ITEMS
Little Lambs Stacking Pegboard Set $19.99 Geoboards $20.30

Kindergarten, 1^st & 2^nd Grade iPad covers

3^rd, 4^th & 5^th Grade Handheld Vaccuum – $47.31 Document camera – $69.00 Magnetic book holder – $23.79 Stadium seats – $49.99

6^th , 7^th & 8^th Grade Tuition Assistance

New Bible Study Opportunity

Tuesday, January 12 – Tuesday, February 16, 2021

6:30pm to 7:30ish pm

In-Person at Emmanuel, Mecan

Recorded for Viewing via an email link and church website

Topic: A Survival Guide for the Believer – Reading the 1^st Letter of Peter

The readers of the apostle Peter’s letter were confused and discouraged. It was the persecution they were encountering because of their faith, and the day-in day-out struggle of being a believer in an overwhelmingly unbelieving world.

A much older and more mature Peter exhorted them to stand strong. He repeatedly reminded them of Christ’s example, the riches of their inheritance in him, and the hope of his returning again to take them to heaven.

Peter explained how Christians can respond when they suffer and struggle because of their beliefs. Called the “apostle of hope,” Peter’s primary message is to trust the Lord, live obediently no matter what your circumstances, and keep your hope fixed on God’s ultimate promise of deliverance.

Suffering is to be expected, but it is temporary and yields great blessings for those who remain steadfast. Peter probably wrote this letter in the mid-60s AD but is as current and relevant of 2021.

“Come now, let us reasontogether, says the Lord.” (Isaiah 1:18)

Jesus is Revealed by A Tireless

Compulsion to Preach the Gospel

The Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany – B

God’s Word for Today

Have you ever felt compelled to do or say something because you’re a Christian? Sometimes that compulsion springs from feelings of guilt. Sadly, that can even be true of our gospel outreach efforts. Such guilt-ridden efforts burn us out and leave us feeling unfulfilled, guiltier. But Jesus doesn’t want us to feel guilty about his Great Commission, and he doesn’t want us to reach out with the gospel due to guilt. Instead it’s the freedom of the gospel that inspires our words and actions as Christians. As we more deeply appreciate the unconditional love that Jesus has for us and for all people, we will more and more feel a tireless compulsion to preach the gospel.

First Lesson (Job 7:1-7)

How was Job feeling about his life?
Why did Job feel the way he did?

Second Lesson (1 Corinthians 9:16-23)

How much was Paul being paid to preach?
What does Paul mean: “I have become all things to all men”? (v 22)
What was Paul’s motivation to preach?

Gospel (Mark 1:29-39)

How did Jesus feel after a long day of ministry?
How did Jesus respond to the demands of the people?

Answers:

He was frustrated with his lot in life. He was tired and depressed. He figured that he’d never be happy again. Job had lost his desire to proclaim good news about his Savior God.
Job had lost his fortune, his children and his reputation. His friends figured that he had done something terrible to deserve such treatment from God, and Job was starting to believe them. His suffering and guilt led him to words of discouragement and despair.
Paul was preaching to the Corinthians free of charge, not using his right as a minister of the gospel to be paid for his work among them (cf. 1 Co 9:15). Normally this would bring disappointment, but Paul boasted of the situation. He was motivated to preach by the gospel, not by payment.
Paul is referring to the servant attitude he had taken toward his listeners. Although, as a Christian, Paul had been given complete freedom in Christ in matters of conscience, he surrendered his Christian freedom in order “to please everybody in every way” (1 Co 10:33). He did this so that he might have an opportunity to preach the gospel.
Paul was motivated by the freedom that Jesus gives through the gospel of forgiveness. He couldn’t help but proclaim that message of forgiveness to others. He had a tireless compulsion to preach the gospel.
He was worn out and looking for solitude. People were demanding an audience with him. Sadly, it seems that they were more interested in earthly blessings (miracles of physical healing) rather than the heavenly blessings that Jesus had to offer, the forgiveness of sins and eternal life.
He left and went to other villages, realizing that his primary mission was to preach the gospel and bring eternal healing to souls. He had a tireless compulsion to preach the gospel.

Attendance	Emmanuel	St. John’s
1-30		24
1-31	14	68
St. John’s Altar Committee February 2021	Kay Maass & Jennie Utke

●●●
Welcome To Our Visitors!
Find & Like us on Facebook
Visit our website: www.stjohnsmontello.org
Pastor Peter Zietlow: (608) 408-7830, E-mail: zietlowPL6@hotmail.com Little Lambs Director & Teacher Mrs. Lynn Sellnow: 616-826-0816
K, 1^st& 2^nd Grade Teacher Ms. Shelley Myers: 920-285-7554
3^rd-5^th Grade Teacher Ms. Katlynn Tindall: 262-352-7021
Principal & 6^th – 8^th Grade Teacher Mr. Larry Sellnow: 616-822-6689, Email: principal@stjohnsmontello.org
Church & School Secretary/Office Ciara Neuhauser: (608) 297-2866 Church & School Address/Mail: 313 E Montello St, Montello, WI 53949 Church & School E-mail: scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org
●●●

Bulletin – Feb. 6 St. John’s, Feb. 7 Emmanuel

February 5, 2021February 5, 2021 scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org

The 5^th Sunday after the Epiphany

Jesus Heals the Hopeless

St. John’s & Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Churches

Montello & Mecan, WI

February 6, 2021

4:30p.m. St. John’s

February 7, 2021

8:00a.m. Emmanuel

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

Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Church
W1568 Evergreen Lane Montello, WI 53949

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

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

GOD’S WORD FOR TODAY Today’s theme: The 5^th Sunday after the Epiphany: Jesus Heals the Hopeless – Jesus is Revealed by A Tireless Compulsion to Preach the Gospel – Have you ever felt compelled to do or say something because you’re a Christian? Sometimes that compulsion springs from feelings of guilt. Sadly, that can even be true of our gospel outreach efforts. Such guilt-ridden efforts burn us out and leave us feeling unfulfilled, guiltier. But Jesus doesn’t want us to feel guilty about his Great Commission, and he doesn’t want us to reach out with the gospel due to guilt. Instead it’s the freedom of the gospel that inspires our words and actions as Christians. As we more deeply appreciate the unconditional love that Jesus has for us and for all people, we will more and more feel a tireless compulsion to preach the gospel.

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

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

The congregation is welcome to join in singing the closing hymn. Anyone who wishes to leave prior may do so.

PASTOR’S WELCOME, ANNOUNCEMENTS, AND PRAYER BEFORE WORSHIP

SCHOOL THEME SONG God is the Strength of My Heart

*See insert. Sung by soloist.

Please stand.

INVOCATION

M: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship fo the Holy Spirit be with you.

C: And also with you.

CONFESSION & ABSOLUTION

C: Amen.

PRAYER OF THE DAY

Please be seated.

† T H E W O R D †

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

FIRST LESSON Job 7: 1-7

Summary: Tired and depressed, Job lost his desire to proclaim the good news and nearly lost his faith

“Do not mortals have hard service on earth? Are not their days like those of hired laborers? Like a slave longing for the evening shadows, or a hired laborer waiting to be paid, so I have been allotted months of futility, and nights of misery have been assigned to me. When I lie down I think, ‘How long before I get up?’ The night drags on, and I toss and turn until dawn. My body is clothed with worms and scabs, my skin is broken and festering. “My days are swifter than a weaver’s shuttle,
and they come to an end without hope. ⁷Remember, O God, that my life is but a breath; my eyes will never see happiness again.

PSALM 103

*For your personal devotion at home.

Refrain

I will hear what the Lord proclaims: peace to his people.

Praise the LORD, O my soul;*

all my inmost being, praise his holy name.

He forgives all your sins*

and heals all your diseases;

he redeems your life from the grave*

and crowns you with love and compassion.

Refrain

The LORD is compassionate and gracious,*

slow to anger, abounding in love.

He does not treat us as our sins deserve*

or repay us according to our iniquities.

For as high as the heavens are above the earth,*

so great is his love for those who fear him;

as far as the east is from the west,*

so far has he removed our transgressions from us.

Refrain

As a father has compassion on his children,*

so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him;

for he knows how we are formed,*

he remembers that we are dust.

Our days are like grass, like a flower of the field;*

the wind blows over it and it is gone.

But the LORD’S love is with those who fear him*

from everlasting to everlasting.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son*

and to the Holy Spirit,

as it was in the beginning,*

is now, and will be forever. Amen.

Refrain

EPISTLE LESSON 1 Corinthians 9: 16-23

Summary: Christ’s love for sinners was Paul’s motivation to preach the gospel and become all things to all men

VERSE OF THE DAY John 8: 12

M: Alleluia. Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” Alleluia.

Please stand.

GOSPEL LESSON Mark 1: 29-39 (today’s sermon text)

Summary: Worn out and looking for solitude, Jesus shows his tireless compulsion to preach the good news

Be seated.

SERMON HYMN 238 Oh, Bless the Lord, My Soul

* Sung by soloist.

SERMON Mark 1: 29-39

“Epiphany Miracles with a Purpose”

They showed Jesus’ power over disease (29-31)
They proved his authority over the devil (32-34)
They pointed to his message of salvation (35-39)

APOSTLES’ CREED

*For your personal devotion at home.

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

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.

EPIPHANY SEASON PRAYER & INTERCESSORY PRAYERS

*Read by pastor, prayers on page 10.

Please stand.

LORD’S PRAYER

*Spoken by congregation.

CLOSING PRAYER

BLESSING

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

The Lord bless you and keep you.

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

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

CLOSING HYMN 446 I Am Trusting You, Lord Jesus

*Sung by congregation.

† A N N O U N C E M E N T S †

February 7 – February 13

Sun.	8:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Worship
	9:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Congregational meeting
	10:00 a.m.	St. John’s Worship
Mon.	8:00 a.m.	Pastor’s Study Club – Princeton
Tues.	8:00 a.m.	School Chapel
	6:00 p.m.	School Board meeting at St. John’s
	6:30 p.m.	Adult Bible Study at Emmanuel
Wed.		Little Lambs & Grade School Outreach Fieldtrip
	11:40 a.m.	School & Little Lambs early release
Thurs.		No school P/T Conferences
	6:00p.m.	Griefshare at St. John’s
Fri.		No school P/T Conferences
Sat.	4:30 p.m.	St. John’s Worship with communion
*Next week’s theme:-* *February 14, 2021* The Transfiguration of our Lord
	Valentine’s Day
8:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Worship with communion
10:00 a.m.	St. John’s Worship with communion

Church News

INTERCESSORY PRAYERS (read by pastor) – For those hospitalized, ill, shut-in and facing trials: Jim & Caryl Bassett, Pat Bornick, Glenn Buchholz, Bob Buehrens, Darlene Burrough (Judy Fandrey’s niece), Ben Coyle (Sue brown’s nephew), Gene & Sharon Crook, Liola Crown, Roberta Davison (Beth John’s daughter), Jerre Duerr, Reinold Eckelberg, Ken Elmer, Mike Farrell, Kelleen Grucza (Judy Fandrey’s daughter), Louise Hillmer, Jerry & Darlene Hunter (Bonnie Chapman’s parents), Wesley & brother Xzander Jahr, Eleanor Kendall, Geri Kerl, Julie Klawitter, Betty Kozlowski, Robert Lederer (Jackie & Jeanne Buchholz’ father), Jenell Mann, Lilly Mann, Delvin Mittelsteadt, Kathy Ninneman, Barbara Petrick, Al Pompa (Pete & Lucy Laun’s brother-in-law), Karen Radke, LuAnn Reber, Jeff Reimer, David Scharf, Roxanne Schmanke, Doris Smith, Carol Stempniak, Jennifer Strauss, Ramona Wacholtz (Dennis’ wife), Dixie Wagner, John Wildt, Harold & brother Paul Wuerch – (added this week: Reinold Eckelberg) – For Kendall Ryan Ross, the infant daughther of Michael Ross & Sarah Bubolz, baptized in Sunday’s (2/7) service at St. John’s – For our WELS schools

ST. JOHN’S VOTERS’ MEETING HIGHLIGHTS Membership Changes: Transfer in: Reid Barnhart from St. Peter’s, Helenville, WI. Rejoin: Brianna Dunning. Profession of Faith: Brad & June Kahlstorf from ELCA Church in Minnesota. Principal’s Report: Current enrollment: 10 in Little Lambs & 44 in K-8. AV Project Upgrade-Two 85-inch TVs will replace the screen. Livestreaming will take place, and recording of services will be easier. Facility Master Plan-Committee to be appointed to explore needs of church/school for the next 5-20 years. Update at April meeting. Election–School Board: Zeb Zuehls. Council: Jacob Jaster & Aaron Wachholz.

2021 OFFERING ENVELOPES are ready for pick up in St. John’s link way.If you weren’t assigned a box and you would like one, please call Ciara in the office 608-297-2866 or let Pastor Zietlow know.

2020 OFFERING STATEMENTS Each member has received a statement via snail mail. No need to sign up.

OFFERING PLATE Just a reminder that the offering plate is located in the entry way (front doors) at St. John’s. We care about your health and safety and are currently still not passing the plates around. You may also mail in your offering at 313 E Montello St. Thank you!

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

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

School news

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

FREE MEAL SIGNUP FOR SCHOOL FAMILIES ONLY Hello School Families! Please find the link on our school Facebook page to sign up for free meals. If we are physically in school, you may still signup. Breakfast and lunch included!

WISHLIST ITEMS
Little Lambs Stacking Pegboard Set $19.99 Geoboards $20.30

Kindergarten, 1^st & 2^nd Grade iPad covers

3^rd, 4^th & 5^th Grade Handheld Vaccuum – $47.31 Document camera – $69.00 Magnetic book holder – $23.79 Stadium seats – $49.99

6^th , 7^th & 8^th Grade Tuition Assistance

New Bible Study Opportunity

Tuesday, January 12 – Tuesday, February 16, 2021

6:30pm to 7:30ish pm

In-Person at Emmanuel, Mecan

Recorded for Viewing via an email link and church website

Topic: A Survival Guide for the Believer – Reading the 1^st Letter of Peter

Suffering is to be expected, but it is temporary and yields great blessings for those who remain steadfast. Peter probably wrote this letter in the mid-60s AD but is as current and relevant of 2021.

“Come now, let us reasontogether, says the Lord.” (Isaiah 1:18)

Jesus is Revealed by A Tireless

Compulsion to Preach the Gospel

The Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany – B

God’s Word for Today

First Lesson (Job 7:1-7)

How was Job feeling about his life?
Why did Job feel the way he did?

Second Lesson (1 Corinthians 9:16-23)

How much was Paul being paid to preach?
What does Paul mean: “I have become all things to all men”? (v 22)
What was Paul’s motivation to preach?

Gospel (Mark 1:29-39)

How did Jesus feel after a long day of ministry?
How did Jesus respond to the demands of the people?

Answers:

He was frustrated with his lot in life. He was tired and depressed. He figured that he’d never be happy again. Job had lost his desire to proclaim good news about his Savior God.
Job had lost his fortune, his children and his reputation. His friends figured that he had done something terrible to deserve such treatment from God, and Job was starting to believe them. His suffering and guilt led him to words of discouragement and despair.
Paul was preaching to the Corinthians free of charge, not using his right as a minister of the gospel to be paid for his work among them (cf. 1 Co 9:15). Normally this would bring disappointment, but Paul boasted of the situation. He was motivated to preach by the gospel, not by payment.
Paul is referring to the servant attitude he had taken toward his listeners. Although, as a Christian, Paul had been given complete freedom in Christ in matters of conscience, he surrendered his Christian freedom in order “to please everybody in every way” (1 Co 10:33). He did this so that he might have an opportunity to preach the gospel.
Paul was motivated by the freedom that Jesus gives through the gospel of forgiveness. He couldn’t help but proclaim that message of forgiveness to others. He had a tireless compulsion to preach the gospel.
He was worn out and looking for solitude. People were demanding an audience with him. Sadly, it seems that they were more interested in earthly blessings (miracles of physical healing) rather than the heavenly blessings that Jesus had to offer, the forgiveness of sins and eternal life.
He left and went to other villages, realizing that his primary mission was to preach the gospel and bring eternal healing to souls. He had a tireless compulsion to preach the gospel.

Attendance	Emmanuel	St. John’s
1-30		24
1-31	14	68
St. John’s Altar Committee February 2021	Kay Maass & Jennie Utke

●●●
Welcome To Our Visitors!
Find & Like us on Facebook
Visit our website: www.stjohnsmontello.org
Pastor Peter Zietlow: (608) 408-7830, E-mail: zietlowPL6@hotmail.com Little Lambs Director & Teacher Mrs. Lynn Sellnow: 616-826-0816
K, 1^st& 2^nd Grade Teacher Ms. Shelley Myers: 920-285-7554
3^rd-5^th Grade Teacher Ms. Katlynn Tindall: 262-352-7021
Principal & 6^th – 8^th Grade Teacher Mr. Larry Sellnow: 616-822-6689, Email: principal@stjohnsmontello.org
Church & School Secretary/Office Ciara Neuhauser: (608) 297-2866 Church & School Address/Mail: 313 E Montello St, Montello, WI 53949 Church & School E-mail: scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org
●●●

Bulletin – St. John’s January 31, 2021

January 29, 2021January 29, 2021 scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org

The 4^th Sunday after the Epiphany

The Authority of Jesus’ Words and Works

St. John’s & Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Churches

Montello & Mecan, WI

January 31, 2021

10:00a.m. St. John’s

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

Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Church
W1568 Evergreen Lane Montello, WI 53949

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

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

GOD’S WORD FOR TODAY Today’s theme: The 4^th Sunday after the Epiphany: Jesus is Revealed by Setting Captives Free – We call Jesus our Redeemer. The word “redeem” means to buy back from capture and captivity, to pay a ransom. As sinful human beings we were captive to the law of God because of our sin and the consequences of sin, principally death. But Jesus has set us free from the law, its threats and its curses, by keeping God’s law for us perfectly. As Christians we are no longer “under law, but under grace” (Rom 6:14). But we don’t abuse our Christian freedom, instead Jesus has set us free that we might become slaves to righteousness, serving others in love in service to our Redeemer.

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

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

The congregation is welcome to join in singing the closing hymn. Anyone who wishes to leave prior may do so.

PASTOR’S WELCOME, ANNOUNCEMENTS, AND PRAYER BEFORE WORSHIP

† H O L Y B A P T I S M †

OPENING HYMN 296: 1,2 Our Children Jesus Calls

*Sung by soloist.

M:The grace of our Lord (+) Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you.

C: And also with you.

CONFESSION OF SINS

M:As baptized children of God we confess our sins:

C: Amen.

The Rite of Baptism continues at the font.

SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM

M: Receive the sign of the cross on the head and heart † to mark you as a redeemed child of Christ.

M: ____, I baptize you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

Please stand.

EXHORTATION

M:Brothers and sisters in Christ:

C: Yes, as God gives me strength.

M: Let us pray:

C: Amen.

Please be seated.

HYMN 296: 3 Our Children Jesus Calls

*Printed on page 3, sung by soloist.

PRAYER OF THE DAY

P: Lord God, you know that we are surrounded by many dangers and that we often stumble and fall. Strengthen us in body and mind, and bring us safely through all temptations; through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Please be seated.

† T H E W O R D X

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

FIRST LESSON Deuteronomy 18: 15-20 (today’s sermon text)

Summary: A Prophet like Moses will come

The LORD your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own brothers. You must listen to him. For this is what you asked of the LORD your God at Horeb on the day of the assembly when you said, “Let us not hear the voice of the LORD our God nor see this great fire anymore, or we will die.” The LORD said to me: “What they say is good. I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their brothers; I will put my words in his mouth, and he will tell them everything I

command him. If anyone does not listen to my words that the prophet speaks in my name, I myself will call him to account. But a prophet who presumes to speak in my name anything I have not commanded him to say, or a prophet who speaks in the name of other gods, must be put to death.”

PSALM 1

*For your personal devotion at home.

Refrain

Blessed are they who hope, who hope in the Lord.

Blessed is the man

who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked*

or stand in the way of sinners.

But his delight is in the law of the LORD,*

and on his law he meditates day and night.

He is like a tree planted by streams of water,

which yields its fruit in season*

and whose leaf does not wither.

Whatever he does prospers.

Refrain

Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,*

nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.

For the LORD watches over the way of the righteous,*

but the way of the wicked will perish.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son*

and to the Holy Spirit,

as it was in the beginning,*

is now, and will be forever. Amen.

Refrain

EPISTLE LESSON 1 Corinthians 8: 1-13

Summary: Concerning Food Sacrificed to Idols

Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that “We all possess knowledge.” But knowledge puffs up while love builds up. Those who think they know something do not yet know as they ought to know. But whoever loves God is known by God. So then, about eating food sacrificed to idols: We know that “An idol is nothing at all in the world” and that “There is no God but one.” For even if there are so-called gods, whether in heaven or on earth (as indeed there are many “gods” and many “lords”), yet for us there is but one God, the Father, from whom all things came and for whom we live; and there is but one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things came and through whom we live.

But not everyone possesses this knowledge. Some people are still so accustomed to idols that when they eat sacrificial food they think of it as having been sacrificed to a god, and since their conscience is weak, it is defiled. But food does not bring us near to God; we are no worse if we do not eat, and no better if we do. Be careful, however, that the exercise of your rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak. For if someone with a weak conscience sees you, with all your knowledge, eating in an idol’s temple, won’t that person be emboldened to eat what is sacrificed to idols? So this weak

brother or sister, for whom Christ died, is destroyed by your knowledge. When you sin against them in this way and wound their weak conscience, you sin against Christ. Therefore, if what I eat causes my brother or sister to fall into sin, I will never eat meat again, so that I will not cause them to fall.

VERSE OF THE DAY Luke 4: 18a

M: Alleluia. The Spirit of the Lord is on me; he has anointed me to preach good news. Alleluia.

Please stand.

GOSPEL LESSON Mark 1: 21-28

Summary: As God’s Prophet, Jesus’ words and works have authority

They went to Capernaum, and when the Sabbath came, Jesus went into the synagogue and began to teach. The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law. Just then a man in their synagogue who was possessed by an evil spirit

cried out, “What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!” “Be quiet!” said Jesus sternly. “Come out of him!” The evil spirit shook the man violently and came out of him with a shriek. The people were all so amazed that they asked each other, “What is this? A new teaching—and with authority! He even gives orders to evil spirits and they obey him.” News about him spread quickly over the whole region of Galilee.

Be seated.

SERMON HYMN 395 Seek Where You May to Find a Way

*Sung by soloist.

SERMON Deuteronomy 18: 15-20

“LISTEN TO THE PROPHET!”

God connects Himself to us through Him (15-18a)
God speaks the truth to us through Him (18b-20)

APOSTLES’ CREED

*For your personal devotion at home.

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

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.

EPIPHANY SEASON PRAYER & INTERCESSORY PRAYERS

*Read by pastor, prayers on page 12.

Please stand.

LORD’S PRAYER

*Spoken by congregation.

CLOSING PRAYER

BLESSING

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

The Lord bless you and keep you.

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

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

CLOSING HYMN 327 God Be with You till We Meet Again

*Sung by congregation.

† A N N O U N C E M E N T S †

January 31 – February 6

Sun.	8:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Worship
	9:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Council meeting
	10:00 a.m.	St. John’s Worship
	11:00 a.m.	Voters meeting at St. John’s
Mon.	1:00 p.m.	Hands In Prayer meeting at St. John’s
Tues.	8:00 a.m.	School Chapel
	9:00 a.m.	Joint Elders meeting at St. John’s
	6:30 p.m.	Adult Bible Study at Emmanuel
Wed.	11:40 a.m.	School & Little Lambs early release
	2:00 p.m.	Bible Information Class at St. John’s
Thurs.	8:00 a.m.	St. John’s School Teen Confirmation Class
	1:00 p.m.	Ladies Aid meeting at St. John’s
	6:00p.m.	Griefshare at St. John’s
Fri.
Sat.	4:30 p.m.	St. John’s Worship
*Next week’s theme:-* *February 7, 2021* The 5^th Sunday after the Epiphany: Jesus Heals the Hopeless
8:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Worship
9:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Congregational meeting
10:00 a.m.	St. John’s Worship

Church News

INTERCESSORY PRAYERS (read by pastor) – For those hospitalized, ill, shut-in and facing trials: Jim & Caryl Bassett, Pat Bornick, Glenn Buchholz, Bob Buehrens, Darlene Burrough (Judy Fandrey’s niece), Ben Coyle (Sue brown’s nephew), Gene & Sharon Crook, Liola Crown, Roberta Davison (Beth John’s daughter), Jerre Duerr, Reinold Eckelberg, Ken Elmer, Mike Farrell, Kelleen Grucza (Judy Fandrey’s daughter), Marian Heller, Louise Hillmer, Jerry & Darlene Hunter (Bonnie Chapman’s parents), Wesley & brother Xzander Jahr, Eleanor Kendall, Geri Kerl, Julie Klawitter, Betty Kozlowski, Robert Lederer (Jackie & Jeanne Buchholz’ father), Jenell Mann, Lilly Mann, Delvin Mittelsteadt, Kathy Ninneman, Barbara Petrick, Al Pompa (Pete & Lucy Laun’s brother-in-law), Karen Radke, LuAnn Reber, Jeff Reimer, David Scharf, Roxanne Schmanke, Doris Smith, Carol Stempniak, Jennifer Strauss, Ramona Wacholtz (Dennis’ wife), Dixie Wagner, John Wildt, Harold & brother Paul Wuerch – (added this week: Roberta Davison) – For Finnley Beahm, the infant son of Aaron Beahm & Kegan Isberner baptized in Sunday’s (1/31) service at St. John’s – A prayer for shut-ins to pray

2021 OFFERING ENVELOPES are ready for pick up in St. John’s link way.If you weren’t assigned a box and you would like one, please call Ciara in the office 608-297-2866 or let Pastor Zietlow know.

2020 OFFERING STATEMENTS Each member has received a statement via snail mail. No need to sign up.

ST. JOHN’S VOTERS MEETING TODAY following our 10:00a.m. service.

OFFERING PLATE Just a reminder that the offering plate is located in the entry way (front doors) at St. John’s. We care about your health and safety and are currently still not passing the plates around. You may also mail in your offering at 313 E Montello St. Thank you!

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

SATURDAY WORSHIP Come worship with us on Saturdays at St. John’s at 4:30pm indoors. All are invited. Please bring a mask and practice social distancing.

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

School news

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

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

WISHLIST ITEMS
Little Lambs Stacking Pegboard Set $19.99 Geoboards $20.30

Kindergarten, 1^st & 2^nd Grade Vacuum Cleaner – $140.00

3^rd, 4^th & 5^th Grade Handheld Vaccuum – $47.31 Document camera – $69.00 Magnetic book holder – $23.79 Stadium seats – $49.99

6^th , 7^th & 8^th Grade Tuition Assistance

New Bible Study Opportunity

Tuesday, January 12 – Tuesday, February 16, 2021

6:30pm to 7:30ish pm

In-Person at Emmanuel, Mecan

Recorded for Viewing via an email link and church website

Topic: A Survival Guide for the Believer – Reading the 1^st Letter of Peter

Suffering is to be expected, but it is temporary and yields great blessings for those who remain steadfast. Peter probably wrote this letter in the mid-60s AD but is as current and relevant of 2021.

“Come now, let us reasontogether, says the Lord.” (Isaiah 1:18)

Jesus is Revealed by Setting Captives Free

The Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany – B

God’s Word for Today

We call Jesus our Redeemer. The word “redeem” means to buy back from capture and captivity, to pay a ransom. As sinful human beings we were captive to the law of God because of our sin and the consequences of sin, principally death. But Jesus has set us free from the law, its threats and its curses, by keeping God’s law for us perfectly. As Christians we are no longer “under law, but under grace” (Rom 6:14). But we don’t abuse our Christian freedom, instead Jesus has set us free that we might become slaves to righteousness, serving others in love in service to our Redeemer.

First Lesson (Deuteronomy 18:15-20)

What request did the people of Israel have for the Lord when they had previously assembled at Mt. Horeb (Sinai)?
Whom was the Lord going to send?
Who was the fulfillment of this prophecy?

Second Lesson (1 Corinthians 8:1-13)

What Corinthian problem does Paul address in this chapter?
Whom does Paul address in this chapter?
What command does he give them?

Gospel (Mark 1:21-28)

What was striking about Jesus’ teaching?
How does Jesus demonstrate his authority?

Answers:

They requested that the Lord no longer speak to them with his own voice (with his majesty revealed), less they die. We sinful people cannot deal interacting with our holy God in his majesty, as the Lord had told Moses: “You cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live” (Exodus 33:20).

He was going to send a prophet from among the people of Israel who would speak on God’s behalf. In time, God’s Old Testament people saw this prophecy as being connected to God’s promise of a Messiah.
Jesus fulfilled this prophecy; he is the Prophet that people often spoke about in the Gospel accounts (cf. Jn 1:21; 7:40).
Paul addresses the important issue of adiaphora (things neither commanded nor forbidden by God). For instance, in the New Testament era, Christians are given freedom to eat all things, but some Jewish Christians were still having difficulty understanding that they were free from Old Testament ceremonial laws about meat sacrificed to idols.
Paul addresses those who understand that they are free from the ceremonial laws (the strong Christians).
Even though they are free as Christians, Paul encourages the strong Christians to surrender their freedom out of loving concern for their fellow Christians (the weak), so that the weak Christians might not sin against their consciences.
He taught based on his own authority (vv 22, 27), while the Jewish teachers of the law always based their teachings upon quotations from other famous rabbis.
He demonstrates his authority by casting out an evil spirit. He has the power, ability and willingness to set us free from all things!

Attendance	Emmanuel	St. John’s
1-23		23
1-24	24	33
St. John’s Altar Committee January 2021	Kathy North & Lucy Laun

●●●
Welcome To Our Visitors!
Find & Like us on Facebook
Visit our website: www.stjohnsmontello.org
Pastor Peter Zietlow: (608) 408-7830, E-mail: zietlowPL6@hotmail.com Little Lambs Director & Teacher Mrs. Lynn Sellnow: 616-826-0816
K, 1^st& 2^nd Grade Teacher Ms. Shelley Myers: 920-285-7554
3^rd-5^th Grade Teacher Ms. Katlynn Tindall: 262-352-7021
Principal & 6^th – 8^th Grade Teacher Mr. Larry Sellnow: 616-822-6689, Email: principal@stjohnsmontello.org
Church & School Secretary/Office Ciara Neuhauser: (608) 297-2866 Church & School Address/Mail: 313 E Montello St, Montello, WI 53949 Church & School E-mail: scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org
●●●

Bulletin – St. John’s January 30, 2021 & Emmanuel January 31, 2021

January 29, 2021January 29, 2021 scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org

The 4^th Sunday after the Epiphany

The Authority of Jesus’ Words and Works

St. John’s & Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Churches

Montello & Mecan, WI

January 30, 2021

4:30p.m. St. John’s

January 31, 2021

8:00a.m. Emmanuel

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

Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Church
W1568 Evergreen Lane Montello, WI 53949

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

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

GOD’S WORD FOR TODAY Today’s theme: The 4^th Sunday after the Epiphany: Jesus is Revealed by Setting Captives Free – We call Jesus our Redeemer. The word “redeem” means to buy back from capture and captivity, to pay a ransom. As sinful human beings we were captive to the law of God because of our sin and the consequences of sin, principally death. But Jesus has set us free from the law, its threats and its curses, by keeping God’s law for us perfectly. As Christians we are no longer “under law, but under grace” (Rom 6:14). But we don’t abuse our Christian freedom, instead Jesus has set us free that we might become slaves to righteousness, serving others in love in service to our Redeemer.

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

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

The congregation is welcome to join in singing the closing hymn. Anyone who wishes to leave prior may do so.

PASTOR’S WELCOME, ANNOUNCEMENTS, AND PRAYER BEFORE WORSHIP

† G A T H E R I N G R I T E O N T H E W O R D O F G O D †

Please stand.

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

C: Amen.

HYMN 221: 1 Blessed Jesus, at Your Word

*Sung by soloist.

1 Blessed Jesus, at your Word We are gathered all to hear you.

Let our hearts and souls be stirred Now to seek and love and fear you,

By your teachings, sweet and holy, Drawn from earth to love you solely.

M: Oh, how I love your law!

C: I meditate on it all day long.

M: Your commands make me wiser than my enemies,

C: for they are ever with me.

M: I have more insight than all my teachers,

C: for I meditate on your statutes.

M: How sweet are your words to my taste,

C: sweeter than honey to my mouth!

HYMN 221: 2 Blessed Jesus, at Your Word

*Sung by soloist.

2 All our knowledge, sense, and sight Lie in deepest darkness shrouded

Till your Spirit breaks our night With the beams of truth unclouded.

You alone to God can win us; You must work all good within us.

M: All scripture is God- breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,

C: so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Tim. 3:16,17

M: Yet so often we have despised God’s Word and failed to gladly hear and learn it. For this and all our sins, we bow before God and humbly ask his forgiveness.

HYMN 221: 3 Blessed Jesus, at Your Word

*Sung by soloist.

3 Gracious Savior, good and kind, Light from Light, from God proceeding,

Open now our heart and mind; Help us by your Spirit’s pleading.

Hear the cry your people raises; Hear and bless our prayers and praises.

C: (spoken) Amen.

HYMN 221: 4 Blessed Jesus, at Your Word

*Sung by soloist.

4 Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, Praise to you and adoration!

Grant that we your Word may trust, Confident of our salvation,

While we here below must wander, Till we sing your praises yonder.

PRAYER OF THE DAY

M: Lord God, you know that we are surrounded by many dangers and that we often stumble and fall. Strengthen us in body and mind, and bring us safely through all temptations; through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Be seated.

† T H E W O R D †

This service offers the congregation a form of worship that focuses on the proclamation of God’s Word. Believers respond to this divine gift with prayer, praise, and thanksgiving.

FIRST LESSON Deuteronomy 18: 15-20 (today’s sermon text)

Summary: A Prophet like Moses will come

PSALM 1

*For your personal devotion at home.

Refrain

Blessed are they who hope, who hope in the Lord.

Blessed is the man

who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked*

or stand in the way of sinners.

But his delight is in the law of the LORD,*

and on his law he meditates day and night.

He is like a tree planted by streams of water,

which yields its fruit in season*

and whose leaf does not wither.

Whatever he does prospers.

Refrain

Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,*

nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.

For the LORD watches over the way of the righteous,*

but the way of the wicked will perish.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son*

and to the Holy Spirit,

as it was in the beginning,*

is now, and will be forever. Amen.

Refrain

EPISTLE LESSON 1 Corinthians 8: 1-13

Summary: Concerning Food Sacrificed to Idols

VERSE OF THE DAY Luke 4: 18a

M: Alleluia. The Spirit of the Lord is on me; he has anointed me to preach good news. Alleluia.

Please stand.

GOSPEL LESSON Mark 1: 21-28

Summary: As God’s Prophet, Jesus’ words and works have authority

Be seated.

SERMON HYMN 395 Seek Where You May to Find a Way

*Sung by soloist.

SERMON Deuteronomy 18: 15-20

“LISTEN TO THE PROPHET!”

God connects Himself to us through Him (15-18a)
God speaks the truth to us through Him (18b-20)

APOSTLES’ CREED

*For your personal devotion at home.

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

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.

EPIPHANY SEASON PRAYER & INTERCESSORY PRAYERS

*Read by pastor, prayers on page 11.

Please stand.

LORD’S PRAYER

*Spoken by congregation.

CLOSING PRAYER

BLESSING

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

The Lord bless you and keep you.

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

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

CLOSING HYMN 327 God Be with You till We Meet Again

*Sung by congregation.

† A N N O U N C E M E N T S †

January 31 – February 6

Sun.	8:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Worship
	9:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Council meeting
	10:00 a.m.	St. John’s Worship
	11:00 a.m.	Voters meeting at St. John’s
Mon.	1:00 p.m.	Hands In Prayer meeting at St. John’s
Tues.	8:00 a.m.	School Chapel
	9:00 a.m.	Joint Elders meeting at St. John’s
	6:30 p.m.	Adult Bible Study at Emmanuel
Wed.	11:40 a.m.	School & Little Lambs early release
	2:00 p.m.	Bible Information Class at St. John’s
Thurs.	8:00 a.m.	St. John’s School Teen Confirmation Class
	1:00 p.m.	Ladies Aid meeting at St. John’s
	6:00p.m.	Griefshare at St. John’s
Fri.
Sat.	4:30 p.m.	St. John’s Worship
*Next week’s theme:-* *February 7, 2021* The 5^th Sunday after the Epiphany: Jesus Heals the Hopeless
8:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Worship
9:00 a.m.	Emmanuel Congregational meeting
10:00 a.m.	St. John’s Worship

Church News

INTERCESSORY PRAYERS (read by pastor) – For those hospitalized, ill, shut-in and facing trials: Jim & Caryl Bassett, Pat Bornick, Glenn Buchholz, Bob Buehrens, Darlene Burrough (Judy Fandrey’s niece), Ben Coyle (Sue brown’s nephew), Gene & Sharon Crook, Liola Crown, Roberta Davison (Beth John’s daughter), Jerre Duerr, Reinold Eckelberg, Ken Elmer, Mike Farrell, Kelleen Grucza (Judy Fandrey’s daughter), Marian Heller, Louise Hillmer, Jerry & Darlene Hunter (Bonnie Chapman’s parents), Wesley & brother Xzander Jahr, Eleanor Kendall, Geri Kerl, Julie Klawitter, Betty Kozlowski, Robert Lederer (Jackie & Jeanne Buchholz’ father), Jenell Mann, Lilly Mann, Delvin Mittelsteadt, Kathy Ninneman, Barbara Petrick, Al Pompa (Pete & Lucy Laun’s brother-in-law), Karen Radke, LuAnn Reber, Jeff Reimer, David Scharf, Roxanne Schmanke, Doris Smith, Carol Stempniak, Jennifer Strauss, Ramona Wacholtz (Dennis’ wife), Dixie Wagner, John Wildt, Harold & brother Paul Wuerch – (added this week: Roberta Davison) – For Finnley Beahm, the infant son of Aaron Beahm & Kegan Isberner baptized in Sunday’s (1/31) service at St. John’s – A prayer for shut-ins to pray

2021 OFFERING ENVELOPES are ready for pick up in St. John’s link way.If you weren’t assigned a box and you would like one, please call Ciara in the office 608-297-2866 or let Pastor Zietlow know.

2020 OFFERING STATEMENTS Each member has received a statement via snail mail. No need to sign up.

ST. JOHN’S VOTERS MEETING TODAY following our 10:00a.m. service.

OFFERING PLATE Just a reminder that the offering plate is located in the entry way (front doors) at St. John’s. We care about your health and safety and are currently still not passing the plates around. You may also mail in your offering at 313 E Montello St. Thank you!

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

SATURDAY WORSHIP Come worship with us on Saturdays at St. John’s at 4:30pm indoors. All are invited. Please bring a mask and practice social distancing.

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

School news

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

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

WISHLIST ITEMS:
Little Lambs: Stacking Pegboard Set $19.99 Geoboards $20.30

Kindergarten, 1^st & 2^nd Grade:

3^rd, 4^th & 5^th Grade: Handheld Vaccuum – $47.31 Document camera – $69.00 Magnetic book holder – $23.79 Stadium seats – $49.99

6^th , 7^th & 8^th Grade: Tuition Assistance

New Bible Study Opportunity

Tuesday, January 12 – Tuesday, February 16, 2021

6:30pm to 7:30ish pm

In-Person at Emmanuel, Mecan

Recorded for Viewing via an email link and church website

Topic: A Survival Guide for the Believer – Reading the 1^st Letter of Peter

Suffering is to be expected, but it is temporary and yields great blessings for those who remain steadfast. Peter probably wrote this letter in the mid-60s AD but is as current and relevant of 2021.

“Come now, let us reasontogether, says the Lord.” (Isaiah 1:18)

Jesus is Revealed by Setting Captives Free

The Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany – B

God’s Word for Today

First Lesson (Deuteronomy 18:15-20)

What request did the people of Israel have for the Lord when they had previously assembled at Mt. Horeb (Sinai)?
Whom was the Lord going to send?
Who was the fulfillment of this prophecy?

Second Lesson (1 Corinthians 8:1-13)

What Corinthian problem does Paul address in this chapter?
Whom does Paul address in this chapter?
What command does he give them?

Gospel (Mark 1:21-28)

What was striking about Jesus’ teaching?
How does Jesus demonstrate his authority?

Answers:

He was going to send a prophet from among the people of Israel who would speak on God’s behalf. In time, God’s Old Testament people saw this prophecy as being connected to God’s promise of a Messiah.
Jesus fulfilled this prophecy; he is the Prophet that people often spoke about in the Gospel accounts (cf. Jn 1:21; 7:40).
Paul addresses the important issue of adiaphora (things neither commanded nor forbidden by God). For instance, in the New Testament era, Christians are given freedom to eat all things, but some Jewish Christians were still having difficulty understanding that they were free from Old Testament ceremonial laws about meat sacrificed to idols.
Paul addresses those who understand that they are free from the ceremonial laws (the strong Christians).
Even though they are free as Christians, Paul encourages the strong Christians to surrender their freedom out of loving concern for their fellow Christians (the weak), so that the weak Christians might not sin against their consciences.
He taught based on his own authority (vv 22, 27), while the Jewish teachers of the law always based their teachings upon quotations from other famous rabbis.
He demonstrates his authority by casting out an evil spirit. He has the power, ability and willingness to set us free from all things!

Attendance	Emmanuel	St. John’s
1-23		23
1-24	24	33
St. John’s Altar Committee January 2021	Kathy North & Lucy Laun

●●●
Welcome To Our Visitors! Find & Like us on Facebook
Visit our website: www.stjohnsmontello.org
Pastor Peter Zietlow: (608) 408-7830, E-mail: zietlowPL6@hotmail.com Little Lambs Director & Teacher Mrs. Lynn Sellnow: 616-826-0816
K, 1^st& 2^nd Grade Teacher Ms. Shelley Myers: 920-285-7554
3^rd-5^th Grade Teacher Ms. Katlynn Tindall: 262-352-7021
Principal & 6^th – 8^th Grade Teacher Mr. Larry Sellnow: 616-822-6689, Email: principal@stjohnsmontello.org
Church & School Secretary/Office Ciara Neuhauser: (608) 297-2866 Church & School Address/Mail: 313 E Montello St, Montello, WI 53949 Church & School E-mail: scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org
●●●