St. Johns News – Page 334 – St. John's Evangelical

Increase My Faith – October 14, 2018

October 14, 2018October 14, 2018 Kerry

Jesus said to his disciples, … “If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him. If he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times comes back to you and says, ‘I repent,’ forgive him.” The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith!” He replied, “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it will obey you.”
Luke 17:3-6

Increase My Faith

Daily Devotion – October 14, 2018

Devotion based on Luke 17:3-6

See series: Devotions

Speaking to his disciples, Jesus addressed the issue of faith. His lesson focused their attention on the importance of this precious gift from God. As I listen to Jesus’ lesson, I find myself saying the same thing the apostles did, “Lord, increase my faith!”

It is a challenging situation. Is more faith needed to forgive someone, or is more faith needed to tell a tree to be uprooted and planted in the sea? Jesus’ point is not to decide which requires more faith. Rather, he stresses the importance of faith in a person’s life.

While some may maintain faith is unnecessary or it is only for the weak, Jesus provides a completely different perspective. It is possible for me to forgive someone who “sins” in a general way. It becomes a completely different situation when a person sins against me. Then it would be easier to tell a tree to be uprooted. However, faith makes what may seem impossible, possible.

Jesus emphasizes the power of faith. It not only trusts the words and promises of God, it puts them into practice. Faith takes hold of me, a sinner, and changes me. I receive sight to see what is pleasing to God. I receive new life to rejoice in being called a child of God. I even receive the ability to willingly do what God commands.

This is why I join the disciples in their prayer. I recognize my weakness to please God. I also recognize my hesitancy to trust and practice what he desires. Yet through faith, I can rejoice in what my Savior has done for me, and desires for me. No wonder I daily pray, “Lord, increase my faith!”

Prayer:
Dear Savior, I thank you for the gift of faith which brings me peace through the forgiveness of my sins and leads me to delight in doing what you desire. In humility and confidence, I ask you to increase my faith. Amen.

This devotion was selected from the Daily Devotion archive.

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

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

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

No Greater Honor – October 13, 2018

October 13, 2018October 13, 2018 Kerry

Join with me in suffering for the gospel.
2 Timothy 1:8

No Greater Honor

Daily Devotion – October 13, 2018

Devotion based on 2 Timothy 1:8

See series: Devotions

Many tourists in Rome will tell you that it is one of the most difficult sites to find. The site that is difficult to find is the Mamertine Prison, the traditional place where the apostle Paul awaited his execution. Over the years, countless tourists have walked right past it without recognizing what it was. This is understandable, because the Mamertine Prison does not resemble our idea of a prison. Rather, it is simply an ancient cistern divided into two rooms, one on top of the other.

On the floor of the upper room is a hole. And through that hole is where prisoners were either lowered–or dropped–into the lower room. This lower room was called the Tullianum.

According to an ancient historian, this lower room, the Tullianum, was 12 feet underground. In his words, it was “disgusting and vile by reason of the filth, the darkness and the stench.” The room itself measures 6 ½ feet high, 30 feet long and 22 feet wide. This was where prisoners waited to die, either by execution or by simple starvation. An iron door at the end of the room opened into the city’s main sewer, where dead bodies are said to have been dumped into the river.

It was in this lower room—the Tullianum—this bottom half of an old cistern, where many believe Paul spent his final days. If that’s the case, then this was also where the Lord moved him to write his final letter. In that letter, the Holy Spirit empowered Paul to look beyond the dank, foul walls of his dungeon and to speak to his friend, Timothy. He also speaks to you and me.

Across the years, Paul says, “Join with me. Join with me in suffering for the gospel.”

The Lord may not call upon us to endure the darkness and misery of the Mamertine Prison. But as you and I carry the Good News of Jesus through this jagged, broken world, there will be all kinds of moments when we will endure difficulties and hardships of every description. For the sake of the gospel we will suffer.

And that’s all right. In fact, it’s more than all right. For as you and I join with Paul in suffering difficulty and hardship for the sake of sharing the gospel—for the sake of sharing the message of full forgiveness through faith in the life and death and resurrection of Jesus Christ—there is no greater honor. None.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, in those moments when I suffer difficulty for the sake of your gospel, remind me of Paul. And refresh me in your forgiveness. Amen.

This devotion was selected from the Daily Devotion archive.

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

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

BULLETIN- 21st SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST OCTOBER 14, 2018

October 12, 2018October 12, 2018 Kerry

EMMANUEL AND ST. JOHN’S

Evangelical Lutheran Churches

Mecan and Montello, WI

$C:\Users\secretary\Downloads\riches_17782c.jpg$ Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod

21^st SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

OCTOBER 14, 2018

WELCOME TO OUR CHURCH! We extend a warm welcome to everyone today, especially our visitors. In the bulletin you’ll find an outline of today’s service, a calendar of events and other bits of information. In the red hymn book you’ll find the songs we sing and the order of service that we follow. If you would like a large print hymnal or bulletin please ask one of our ushers and they will gladly assist you. Restrooms and nursery area are located the parish hall at Emmanuel and in the lower level and “link-way” at St. John’s. It’s nice to have you visit today. May God bless our worship together!

GOD’S WORD FOR TODAY Jesus Warns Us to Guard against Greed – “I’m a little envious,” we claim. It is far worse. Envy is wishing God were not so good to someone else while ignoring how good God is to us. And our greed? “Greed is idolatry,” God says (Colossians 3:5). Still, God in Christ provides for all our needs, including the greatest—forgiveness of sin. He places proper priorities in the repentant believer’s heart. God even promises everlasting treasure in his holy presence, all by his grace.

A PERSONAL PRAYER BEFORE WORSHIP Dear Heavenly Father: I come to your house today to worship you, to give you the praise you deserve and the prayers and hymns you desire. Through your Word and Sacrament, come to me. Take me by the hand and lead me to the cross where your Son offered sin’s sacrifice once and for all. Forgive my sins, strengthen my faith, assure me of my salvation, and inspire and empower me to do good works. Teach me today to look up to Jesus and live by faith. Bless my worship. Amen.

ORDER OF SERVICE–LITURGY

“Gathering Rite on the Word of God” (see pages 4, 5)

PASTOR’S GREETING

NOTE: AT ST. JOHN’S…

ST. JOHN’S SUNDAY SCHOOL SINGS “Nothing Is Impossible” (lyrics below)

I read in the Bible the promise of God,

That nothing for Him is too hard;

Impossible things He has promised to do,

If we faithfully trust in His Word.

CHORUS:

Nothing is impossible

When you put your trust in God;

Nothing is impossible

When you’re trusting in His Word.

Hearken to the voice of God to thee:

“Is there anything too hard for Me?”

Then put your trust in God alone

and rest upon His Word–

For ev’rything, O ev’rything,

Yes, ev’rything is possible with God!

The word of the Lord is an anchor secure,

When winds of uncertainty blow:

Though man in his weakness may falter and fail,

His Word will not fail us we know. CHORUS

All things are possible, this is His Word,

Receive it ‘tis written for you,

Believe in His promises, God cannot fail,

For what He has said He will do. CHORUS

Continue on page 4…

NOTE: AT EMMANUEL & ST. JOHN’S…

OPENING HYMN 221: 1,2,3,4 “Blessed Jesus, at Your Word” (printed below, sing accordingly)

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!

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.

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.

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”. 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.

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 (read by pastor)

M: Let us pray.

C: (spoken) Amen.

(Please be seated)

THE DAY’S BIBLE READING THEME

Jesus Warns Us to Guard against Greed

OLD TESTAMENT LESSON Amos 5:6,7,10-15 (today’s sermon text)

God warns the Israelites of their evil and greed

Seek the LORD and live, or he will sweep through the house of Joseph like a fire; it will devour, and Bethel will have no one to quench it. You who turn justice into bitterness and cast righteousness to the ground you hate the one who reproves in court and despise him who tells the truth. You trample on the poor and force him to give you grain. Therefore, though you have built stone mansions, you will not live in them; though you have planted lush vineyards, you will not drink their wine. For I know how many are your offenses and how great your sins. You oppress the righteous and take bribes and you deprive the poor of justice in the courts. Therefore the prudent man keeps quiet in such times, for the times are evil. Seek good, not evil, that you may live. Then the LORD God Almighty will be with you, just as you say he is. Hate evil, love good; maintain justice in the courts. Perhaps the LORD God Almighty will have mercy on the remnant of Joseph.

PSALM 90 (hymnal page 99, all read verses, all sing refrains)

EPISTLE Hebrews 3:1-6

Therefore, holy brothers and sisters, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, whom we acknowledge as our apostle and high priest. He was faithful to the one who appointed him, just as Moses was faithful in all God’s house. Jesus has been found worthy of greater honor than Moses, just as the builder of a house has greater honor than the house itself. For every house is built by someone, but God is the builder of everything. “Moses was faithful as a servant in all God’s house, ”bearing witness to what would be spoken by God in the future. But Christ is faithful as the Son over God’s house. And we are his house, if indeed we hold firmly to our confidence and the hope in which we glory.

VERSE OF THE DAY (read by pastor)

Alleluia. This is the Lord, we trusted in him; let us rejoice and be glad in his salvation. Alleluia. (Isaiah 25:9b)

(Please stand)

After the announcement of the Gospel, all sing:

“Glory be to you, O Lord!”

GOSPEL Mark 10:17-27

Jesus teaches the rich young man about greed

As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” “Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good– except God alone. You know the commandments: `Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honor your father and mother.’ {Exodus 20:12-16; Deut. 5:16-20}” “Teacher,” he declared, “all these I have kept since I was a boy.” Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” At this the man’s face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth. Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!” The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said again, “Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” The disciples were even more amazed, and said to each other, “Who then can be saved?” Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.”

After the Gospel, all sing:

“Praise be to you, O Christ!”

(Please be seated)

$Z:\CHURCH STUFF\CW Supplement Electronic Pew Edition CD ROM\TIFF files\Hymns\CWS 768.tif$ SERMON HYMN 768 “How Firm a Foundation”

SERMON Amos 5:5-7,10-15 “Let’s Come Clean of the Great Middle Class Sin”

(Please stand)

APOSTLES’ CREED (hymnal page 41, all read)

(Please be seated)

OFFERING, GREETINGS, AND FRIENDSHIP REGISTERS

OFFERING PRAYER

WELCOME NEW MEMBER AT ST. JOHN’S (via Bible Information Class): Vicky Wachholz

(Please stand)

PRAYER FOR CONTENTMENT

INTERCESSORY PRAYERS

– For those hospitalized, ill, shut-in and facing trials: George Alexander, Alexandria Buehrens (Bob & Carolyn’s great granddaughter), Bob & Carolyn Buehrens, George Chapman, Gene & Sharon Crook, Harley & Liola Crown & son Terry, Agnes Dassow, Caleb & Emery Degenstein (Mark Emond’s friends), Elaine Emond (Mark’s mother), Marjorie Fabian, Mike Farrell, Ron Fuerstenau (Bill’s grandfather), Kellen Grucza (Judy Fandrey’s daughter), Dawn Hirn (Linda Krause’s niece), Bob Klapper (Sandy’s husband), Linda Krause, Aspen Raelynn Lefeber (Barb Hoffman’s greatgrandaughter), Anna Madigan, Lily Mann, LuAnn Reber, Wayne Riemer, Frankie Russell, Mark Russell (Elsa’s son), Dennis Schwanke (Mary Isberner’s friend), Dennis & Ramona Wacholtz, Donny Weber (Betty’s son), Paul Weldon, Millie Wildt (John’s wife) – (added this week: Lily Mann)

– For Riggs Abraham Gimnick, the son of Matthias & Amber Gminick, born on 8/26

– For Vicky Wachholz welcomed as a new member by adult confirmation via Bible Information Class in today’s (10/14) service at St. John’s

– For those affected by local flooding and Hurricane Michael

– For our communicants at St. John’s

THE LORD’S PRAYER (all read)

NOTE: AT EMMANUEL…

LITURGY (hymnal, page 43)

(Please be seated)

HYMN 469:1-4 “Take My Life and Let It Be” (printed in hymnal, all sing)

(Please stand)

CLOSING PRAYER & BLESSING (hymnal page 43-44, read & sung responsively)

CLOSING HYMN 469:5-6 “Take My Life and Let It Be” (printed in hymnal, all sing)

NOTE: AT ST. JOHN’S…

HOLY COMMUNION LITURGY (hymnal page 33, read & sung responsively)

(Please be seated for Holy Communion)

The Bible tells us that those who take Communion together are to:

Recognize that Christ’s true body and blood are present in the Sacrament (1 Cor. 10:17).
Examine themselves (1 Cor. 11:28), and
Be united in faith with the congregation with which they commune (1 Cor. 10:17).

For these reasons, it is our practice that only those who are members of our congregation or a congregation of the Wisconsin Lutheran Synod (WELS) join us for Holy Communion. If you are interested in learning more about becoming part of our fellowship, please speak to the pastor after the service.

DISTRIBUTION HYMNS 354 “Lamb of God, We Fall before You”, 469:1-4 “Take My Life and Let It Be” (printed in hymnal, all sing)

(Please stand)

THANK THE LORD, CLOSING PRAYER & BLESSING (hymnal page 36-37, read & sung responsively)

CLOSING HYMN 469:5-6 “Take My Life and Let It Be” (printed in hymnal, all sing)

ANNOUNCEMENTS

THEME FOR NEXT SUNDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2018

WELS Mission & Ministry Sunday:

To the Ends of the Earth DVD, special service/sermon

ACTIVITIES FOR THE WEEK OF OCTOBER 14-OCTOBER 20
Sun.	8:00 A.M.		Emmanuel Worship
	8:30 A.M.		St. John’s Sunday School
	9:00 A.M.		History Presentation at Emmanuel
	10:00 A.M.		St. John’s Worship with communion
Mon.	6:00 P.M.		School Parents meeting in St. John’s lower level
	6:30 P.M.		Bible Information Class at St. John’s
	6:30 P.M.		Choir at St. John’s
	7:30 P.M.		St. John’s Adult Bible Study
Tues.	6:30 P.M.		Men’s Bible Study at St. John’s
			Joint Pastor’s Conference at Elkhart Lake
Wed.	8:00 A.M.		St. John’s School Chapel
			Joint Pastor’s Conference at Elkhart Lake
			NO ADULT BIBLE STUDY
	1:40 P.M.		St. John’s School/Little Lambs early release
	6:30 P.M.		St. John’s Worship
Thurs.	8:00 A.M.		St. John’s Teen Confirmation Class
	6:00 P.M.		Griefshare at St. John’s
	6:00 P.M.		Joint Worship Committee meeting at St. John’s
Fri.
Sat.
SCHEDULE FOR NEXT SUNDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2018 WELS Mission & Ministry Sunday: To the Ends of the Earth DVD, special service/sermon
8:00 A.M.		Emmanuel Worship
8:30 A.M.		St. John’s Sunday School
9:00 A.M.		St. John’s Adult Bible Study
10:00 A.M.		St. John’s Worship

SCHOOL PARENTS MEETING Monday, October 15, at 6:00pm school parents are asked to come to St. John’s lower level to listen to a presentation from Montello schools on what specialist programs they offer and then to discuss this upcoming basketball season. See you then!

ST. JOHN’S DIRECTORIES ARE HERE! If you sat with Lifetouch for a photography session and had a Lifetouch photo put into our new directory, come pick up your free directory in the link way. If you submitted your own photo and would like a directory, they can be purchased for $10.00 ea.

WELCOME new Bible Information Class members Willie & Megan Stalker & daughter Maisie to our Monday 6:30pm class in the St. John’s conference room. If you are interested in attending this or another class that leads to baptism & communicant membership, please contact Pastor Z at 608-408-7830.

PLEASE MUTE YOUR CELL PHONES before the worship service begins. No texting while driving or worshiping.

See the source image LADIES AID & CONGREGATION CLAUSON CHRISTMAS SHOW & MEAL This year, we will have our Christmas outing on December 15. There is a sign-up sheet located in St. John’s link way. October 14 is the deadline for sign-up. Questions? Call Bernice Wegner 297-7185

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

MEN’S BIBLE CLASS THIS WEEK Tuesday, 6:30pm is the time. The church basement is the place. We’re still “Talking Turkey” – reading the 7 Letters to the 7 Churches” of Asia Minor (Turkey). Keep wooing your first love (Jesus as Savior and Lord), and “Be Faithful” no matter what, are lessons learned. This week, another truth – “The Power and Authority of God’s Word. Use it!

EMMANUEL-BIG MECAN PIONEER HISTORY Big Mecan-Little Mecan – Why? How? When did our first Lutheran pioneers ancestors come to Marquette County? Who were they? What about Budsin, and Newton, and Germania? Why so many different Lutheran churches here? As long ago and far away as it may seem, how different are things today? These are among the topics that Pastor Dolan will present TODAY (10/14) at Emmanuel, at 9:00am following the 8am worship. You are invited.

SCRIP What is Scrip? Using the Scrip program, you can raise

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

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

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

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

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

SHARE (from a WELS member): “Some things are better shared: a grief, a joy, a meal, an open fire, a book, a toy. Yes, some things must be shared to fully please; our own faith is not the least of these.”

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

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

RECYCLE MEDITATIONS DEVOTIONALS FOR PRISON MINISTRY

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

October Voters Meeting Notes

Thank you to those who were able to join us for the Voters meeting and here is a summary.

The Evangelism committee reported that after it was revamped last spring that it was given the directive by council to try and fine outreach opportunities in our community for the rest of 2018. Council did this after the congregation had expressed that they wanted to do more outreach in the surveys that were completed 2 years ago. So, with that in mind the Evangelism committee helped bring in a sponsor the Social Media Awareness presentation that was held in April and hosted by the Marquette County Sherriff’s Department, St. Johns also hosted a presentation on Teen Suicide and Self Harm. St. Johns had a booth at the Marquette County fair, brought back the float in the Father Marquette days and hosted our first concert on the ball diamond which was attended by 175 people and raised almost $1,000 to be split between WLA and the Montello Public Library. Future outreach opportunities are St. johns participating in the Holiday Trail. That’s 7 outreach events in 6 months so stay tuned for other outreach events.

Council will be working to get the Stewardship committee up and going again. It has been combined with Evangelism in the past but will now be set up as a stand-alone committee. If you would like to serve on this committee or are asked to serve on this committee, please prayerfully consider it and get back to Ciara or Paul Van Treeck.

Paul Van Treeck reported that we are bringing in less than what was budgeted in the offering envelopes. St. John’s is currently running about $5,000 behind over the last 3 months but have kept our spending to a minimum to compensate this so St. Johns is only about $100 off. This doesn’t mean that there are impending staff cuts or program cuts but it serves as a reminder for the congregation to take a look into and prayerfully their time, talents and treasures and see how they can be best used for the ministry of the church.

Paul Van Treeck also reported that the council has identified 4 large capital projects that they are encouraging members and those thinking of giving to the church through various means and estates to direct their giving’s to the following 4 capital projects.

Stained Glass Window Repair and Refinishing= $115,000.00
Parking Lot replacement and expansion= $100,000
Church Front Doors= $20,000
Removal of the Old Little Lambs House= $20,000

Attendance

Emmanuel

St. John’s

10-7 10-10

114 4

St. John’s Altar Committee:

October 2018

Elaine Kelm

Carolyn Rosenthal

St. John’s Greeters Schedule
Oct 14	Scott & Debbie Ritz
Oct 21	Karl Whitrock & Elsa Russell
Oct 28	Al & Carolyn Rosenthal
Nov 4	Dixie Wagner & Bernice Wegner
Nov 11	Linda Lou Wacholtz & Karen Wojtalewicz
Nov 18	Don & Doris Smith
Nov 22	James & Linda Wachholz
Nov 25	Ron & Evie Blada

See the source image

Usher Schedule

October 14

(with comm.) SJ

Darrell Buchholz, Warren Buchholz, Duwayne Sommerfeld

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

October 21

Duwayne Sommerfeld, Bob Ferber, Brian Ninneman

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

October 28

(with comm.) SJ

Wayne Stelter, Jim Steumpges, Paul Dahlke

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

November 4

(with comm.) E

Lucas Stelter, Noah Buchholz, Joe Heller, comm. assist. Wayne Stelter

Dennis Wacholtz; Chief, Ben Emond, Tyler Emond, James Henke, Paul Van Treeck

November 11

(with comm.) SJ

Don Stelter, Bruce Stelter, Duwayne Sommerfeld

Jack Yates; Chief, Martin Schmanke, Lee Ollendorf, Aaron Kendall, Chuck Boetcher

November 18

Brian Ninneman, Paul Wuerch, Don Stelter

Don Smith; Chief, Jim Eisermann, Corey Kaul, Jerre Duerr, Robin Smith

November 21

Thanksgiving E

Darrell Buchholz, Glenn Buchholz, Paul Dahlke

November 22

Thanksgiving SJ

Kenon Smith; Chief, Del Henke, Joe Zauner, Gordon Krause, Richard Freitag

November 25

(with comm.) SJ

Duwayne Sommerfeld, Glenn Buchholz, Joe Heller

Cal Kapp; Chief, Gergardt Voigt, Mitch Simon, Karl Whitrock, Matt Borzick

Welcome To Our Visitors!

Please Sign Our Guest Register

Visit our website link at: www.stjohnsmontello.org

Like & find us on Facebook

Pastor Peter Zietlow Office (608) 297-2321

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

Teacher Karin Stellick (920) 342-3689

Teacher Sara Borck (858) 731-7919

Teacher Rachel Naumann (847) 913-2135

Teacher Cassie Doering (920) 723-8986

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

Altar Ladies Elaine Kelm (920) 344-0025 &

Carolyn Rosenthal 589-5036

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

OR scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org

Winnebago Lutheran Academy

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

WLA website: www.wlavikings.org

A Big Job – October 12, 2018

October 12, 2018October 12, 2018 Kerry

[Jesus] said to [the Eleven], “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.”
Mark 16:15

A Big Job

Daily Devotion – October 12, 2018

Devotion based on Mark 16:15

See series: Devotions

My wife and I assign different jobs to our children based on their age. The six-year-old is responsible for setting the table and clearing the dishes. The four-year-old needs to pick up her toys. With the two-year-old, we are just happy if he can brush his own teeth with limited assistance. We give our children different chores because we know it would be disastrous if the two-year-old tried to set out the glasses for dinner, and we want our six-year old to be able to do more than just brush her own teeth.

Before he ascended back to heaven, Jesus’ final instructions were given to a group of disciples who just weeks earlier had abandoned him. These were the same disciples who over their last three years had often been slow to believe and listen, but quick to doubt and interject. Yet it is to these same disciples that Jesus gives one of the most significant tasks the world has ever known: preaching the gospel to the ends of the earth.

Jesus’ instruction to us is still the same today. We are to go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. Wherever we find ourselves in life, we are to intentionally bring the good news of Jesus who was crucified and raised to life, for the forgiveness of sins and life with God. Like the disciples we are to make this our mission, and like the disciples we are woefully unqualified for it.

We might be tempted to think this is a recipe for disaster, like asking a two-year-old to set the table. We may say, the job is too big and we are too small. However, Jesus never gives us a task without equipping us for that task. Jesus never gives us a command and then leaves us alone. Instead he provides for what he commands. Yes, the work of being Christ’s witnesses in all the world is nothing short of monumental. But in every circumstance Jesus gives us everything we need to share his gospel of salvation.

So, we go out into the world, wherever it is that we go, and we do this magnificent thing of bringing the good news of Jesus with us.

Prayer:
Jesus, be with us as we take your gospel to the ends of the earth. Motivate us, strengthen us, equip us, and enable us to be your witnesses in all the world. Amen.

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

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

Point Them to Jesus – October 11, 2018

October 11, 2018October 11, 2018 Kerry

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Matthew 28:19-20

Point Them to Jesus

Daily Devotion – October 11, 2018

Devotion based on Matthew 28:19-20

See series: Devotions

There are currently around 7.6 billion people in the world. If you counted one person per second, it would take over 239 years to count them all. What is true about each and every person on the face of the earth? They are all born sinful and needing a Savior. By nature, every single person is headed straight toward eternal punishment in hell.

It’s terrifying and heartbreaking to see so many people living unaware of the consequences of sin, rejecting the truths of God’s Word, and living apart from God. The Bible says that unbelief condemns to an eternity of suffering. God didn’t create the world to condemn it. God did’t make everything for the sole purpose of seeing it brought to ruin.

Your heavenly Father wants only what is best for his creation and wants everyone to receive the benefits and blessings of heaven. That’s why he sent Jesus—to pay for your sins to rescue you from an eternity in hell and give you an eternal paradise of heaven.

God’s Word teaches that through Jesus, you are forgiven. That is good news, the best news! God doesn’t hold you accountable for the guilt of what you have done wrong. He doesn’t punish you, because he punished Jesus in your place. What does God command you to do with this good news? Bring it to others. Go and tell others the good news of forgiveness in Christ. Share your joy of peace. Through his Word and through Baptism, God creates and strengthens faith in the Savior. Through faith God welcomes you and others into eternal life. While you do this work, Jesus promises he is always by your side, protecting and encouraging you every step of the way.

7.6 billion people—that is a lot of people! Jesus calls on his believers to take up the work of reaching them with the good news of salvation. With his Word and with Baptism he equips us for bringing his saving message to the ends of the earth.

Prayer:
Gracious Savior, use me to tell others about you, that they also may enjoy forgiveness and eternal life. Amen.

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

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

Listen Up – October 10, 2018

October 10, 2018October 10, 2018 Kerry

Moses brought together seventy of their elders and had them stand around the Tent. Then the LORD came down in the cloud and spoke with him.
Numbers 11:24-25

Listen Up

Daily Devotion – October 10, 2018

Devotion based on Numbers 11:24-25

See series: Devotions

I wonder what God sounded like?

Moses heard him. The leaders of the people Moses invited around the worship tent in the desert certainly heard him. A few others throughout the pages of the Bible heard the voice of the Lord on those rare occasions when he allowed human beings to listen to him speak. I wonder what it was like? Was his voice loud, deep, and thunderous like the movies depict? Was it frightening? Was it soothing? Was it awe-inspiring? Whatever God sounded like, I wish I could have heard him.

Then again, even if I could hear God’s voice that doesn’t mean I would always listen to him! In this account recorded in the book of Numbers, there were two elders of the people who didn’t come to listen to the Lord. They didn’t gather with the other 68 elders at the worship tent with Moses. They didn’t follow God’s instructions even though they should have known better.

I should know better too. We should all know better! We understand that we are supposed to listen to God’s Word and follow his instructions, but we are inconsistent at best. At worst, we are belligerent and rebellious, prone more often to do whatever we want instead of what God wants. I’m not so sure I would want to hear the tone of voice God would use if he were to speak to me!

But he does speak to me. And he speaks to you too. We don’t hear his voice audibly as he talks from heaven, but we do “hear” his voice in a very real way through the pages of the Bible. And when he speaks, he isn’t angry or bitter or disappointed. He speaks with a softness and with a compassion that comforts our hearts. “You’re forgiven,” he says. “I have sent my Son Jesus to bear the brunt of the punishment you deserve and have cleared you of any offenses by his cross. I love you because you are my child through faith and I will always be your caring Father.”

What a relief! What a message! What a pleasure to hear the voice of our God!

Prayer:
Lord, help me listen to your voice through your written Word. Amen.

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

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

Photograph – October 9, 2018

October 9, 2018October 9, 2018 Kerry

Both the one who makes men holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers.
Hebrews 2:11

Photograph

Daily Devotion – October 9, 2018

Devotion based on Hebrews 2:11

See series: Devotions

This past June, the world of commentary lost one of its most elegant writers. When Charles Krauthammer died, people across the political spectrum knew they had lost someone special. They may or may not always have agreed with his opinions, but the thoughtfulness and eloquence of his columns were beyond dispute. For his writing he received the Pulitzer Prize.

In the wake of Krauthammer’s death, admirers began to share with each other some of his most beloved columns. A piece his fans mentioned repeatedly was the one he wrote about his brother, Marcel, when Marcel died in 2006. To read it, do an online search: “Marcel, My Brother.” Of this article one reader wrote, “I’ve never read any other column—from anybody else—that resonated so deeply.”

When Charles wrote about his brother, he wrote about their years growing up. Marcel was four years older than Charles and a magnificent athlete. But in his column, Charles remembers how his big brother always included him in everything he did. Every summer they were inseparable. And even though, as Charles says, “four years is a chasm [when you’re young],” all of Marcel’s friends knew Marcel’s rule whenever they got together for a neighborhood game. Marcel’s rule was, “Charlie plays.” And so, Charlie did.

Perhaps the most poignant portion of Charles’ piece on his big brother comes near the very end. He writes, “There is a black-and-white photograph of us, two boys alone. He’s maybe 11. I’m 7. …In the photo, nothing but sand, sea, and sky, the pure elements of our summers together. We are both thin as rails…dressed in our summer finest: bathing suits and buzz cuts. Marcel’s left arm is draped around my neck with that effortless natural ease—and touch of protectiveness—that only older brothers know.”

When the living Word of our God tells us, that Jesus is our brother, perhaps it happens too often that you and I do not stop to take in what that means. The Son of God became a human being, yes. He lived a holy life on our behalf, yes. His suffering and death washed away our every wrong, yes. He rose from death and lives, yes.

But as he lives, he watches over us not simply as if we were some divine assignment he needs to protect. He’s our brother. He’s been where we are. He knows how hard and lonely life can be. He understands.

Remember the photograph of Marcel and Charlie? Marcel’s arm draped around little Charlie’s neck says it all. Remember that picture when you think of Jesus’ love for you.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, you are my brother. I’m sorry how often I forget that. But your arm is around me always. Thank you. Amen.

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

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

Arrogance – October 8, 2018

October 8, 2018October 8, 2018 Kerry

Some Pharisees came and tested [Jesus] by asking, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?”
Mark 10:2

Arrogance

Daily Devotion – October 8, 2018

Devotion based on Mark 10:2

See series: Devotions

The Pharisees came with a deviously devised test for Jesus. Even though they themselves could not agree on an answer, they believed Jesus would take one side or the other. In this way they could subject Jesus to accusation and disgrace. It was nothing more than arrogance on their part, and Jesus revealed their sin for what it was—a rejection of God’s Word.

There is a sense of indignation which wells up in me. How could they do this! How could they reject God’s Word! How could they be so arrogant! Before I convince myself that I would never do anything like that, I need to look at myself honestly and humbly.

I can be just as arrogant as the Pharisees. It surfaces not only regarding beliefs on divorce and marriage, but in every aspect of my life. God’s Word is clear in its commands and prohibitions. I, however, think I know better. I try to convince myself that my situation is different. I might even believe this really doesn’t apply to me. There is no other way to describe my thoughts than arrogance. And God will hold me accountable.

In sincerity, I turn to the cross of Jesus my Savior. At his cross I receive the assurance of my forgiveness for arrogance and all other sins. I also receive the will and the desire to accept all that God commands. Instead of arguing my position with the Lord, I accept his. In humility, I submit to his will.

Honestly, I know from sad experience that I will always struggle with the Lord’s will for my life. I will rely on rationalizations, justifications, or just weak excuses. I will even argue that his accusations are untrue. This is nothing more than the arrogance of my sin-stained heart. It is why I pray daily, “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me” (Psalm 51:10).

Prayer: Psalm 51:10-12
Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me.
Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.

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

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

God is Patient and Gracious – October 7, 2018

October 7, 2018October 7, 2018 Kerry

Jesus said to [the chief priests and the Pharisees], “Have you never read in the Scriptures: ‘The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone; the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes’? Therefore I tell you that the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people who will produce its fruit.”
Matthew 21:42-43

God is Patient and Gracious

Daily Devotion – October 7, 2018

Devotion based on Matthew 21:42-43

See series: Devotions

These words of Jesus come at the end of a parable (a story that relates a truth about God and his kingdom). A landowner had rented his vineyard to some tenant farmers. They were to give him a share of the harvest when his servants came to collect. Instead, the tenants beat and even killed those servants. In response, the landowner sent more servants. Same treatment. Finally, the man sent his son. Certainly, he thought, they would respect and receive his son. But instead, the wicked tenants killed the son and claimed the vineyard as their own! The point was not lost on Jesus’ hearers. They knew what that landowner would do next. He would avenge the death of his servants and son and rent his vineyard to new, faithful farmers.

How patiently and graciously the Lord had dealt with the people of Israel! God had chosen them to be his special people. They would bear his name, have his Word and be the nation from whom the world’s Savior would be born. They were not special because they were better than other people. They were not sinless or righteous in themselves. They needed the Savior from sin as much as anybody else. God had chosen them by his grace. He called on them to believe his promise that the Savior would come. He called on them to produce the thoughts and actions that come from faith. In large part, though, the people of Israel rejected the Lord’s promise. They became proud of the position that was theirs only because of God’s undeserved love. God sent them prophets to turn them around. They mistreated and rejected those prophets. Finally, he sent them his Son! They crucified him, the one who had come as proof of God’s patience and mercy. They had rejected God’s chosen one.

Rejecting Jesus is rejecting the Father who sent him. Refusal to listen to the Lord and to believe his promises is to treat him the same way the tenant farmers treated the landowner. There is a message there for all of us. God has been and still is patient and gracious. He still sends a message of pardon and peace to those who realize just how much they need it because of sin. Jesus Christ still holds out his nail-pierced hands to lead us to his Father. He still gives his Word that our hearts might be filled with faith and might burst forth with fruit.

Look to him as God’s chosen one. See him as the sure hope of a right relationship with God. Look to serve him with lives that reflect genuine thanks and love.

Prayer:
Lord, thank you for your patience with me. Help me to see just how much I need Jesus, and then fill my heart with joy to know how he has lived and died to save me. Help me to live a life that shows my gratitude and love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This devotion was selected from the Daily Devotion archive.

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

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

Forgetting What is Behind – October 6, 2018

October 6, 2018October 6, 2018 Kerry

I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:12-14

Forgetting What is Behind

Daily Devotion – October 6, 2018

Devotion based on Philippians 3:12-14

See series: Devotions

After a long day, that glorious moment has finally arrived. However, as your weary head sinks deeper into its pillow your mind begins reviewing the events of the day, and you find that sleep is not going to come as quickly as you would like. Unfinished tasks, disappointing events, words that you regret speaking … there are all sorts of things that happened during the day that you wish you could go back and change, but you can’t.

One of the most frustrating things in life is also one of the most solid truths. We cannot go back and change anything that has happened in the past. Neither the hasty words spoken five minutes ago, nor the foolish decisions of youth can be undone. There is no time machine that allows us to go back and avoid making the mistakes we have made.

How awesome our God is! He does undo the past. He has erased those mistakes, not by using a time machine, but with the blood of his Son. Every hurtful word spoken, and every selfish decision made, all the sinful acts we have ever committed—they have all been erased by Jesus’ death on the cross.

Now we have been given a tremendous gift—a future. Because of Jesus’ death on the cross in our place, all our sin and guilt have been removed and by faith in Jesus we have been given eternal life in heaven. Instead of ending the day with a mind that is spinning, filled with the regrets of the past, we can rest in peace with our eyes focused on the wonderful future God has graciously given to us.

Each day we struggle to make decisions that are pleasing to God. Sometimes the Holy Spirit gives us the strength to win that struggle. Other times our human nature prevails, and we fail. Trusting in the forgiveness that is ours through Jesus and confident of his gift of eternal life, we can sleep in peace every night. The sins of our past have been erased forever. Instead of focusing on them, we can focus on the future—the eternal future we have been given—and how we are going to strive to live our next moment to the glory of the gracious God who has given it to us.

May the Holy Spirit graciously enable us to echo the apostle Paul’s words: “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

Prayer:
Holy Spirit, fill my heart with a faith that focuses on the eternal prize that Jesus, my Savior has won for me with his blood. With my eyes focused on heaven, help me to live my life here on earth as the forgiven child of God that I am. In Jesus’ name I ask it. Amen.

This devotion was selected from the Daily Devotion archive.

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

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