Jesus invites us: “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30) 

In our lives in this fallen world we are going to face trials. Our sin, Satan, and thing outside of us and inside of us threaten us, often cause us to despair. David writes: "There is no soundness in my flesh Because of Your anger, Nor any health in my bones Because of my sin. For my iniquities have gone over my head; Like a heavy burden they are too heavy for me. My wounds are foul and festering Because of my foolishness. I am troubled, I am bowed down greatly; I go mourning all the day long." (Psalm 38:4-7)

For this reason we come to Jesus knowing what He has done for us! Newton writes:

O wondrous Love, to bleed and die, To bear the cross and shame, That guilty sinners such as I Might plead Thy gracious Name!

Thanks be to Jesus for all He has done for us through His life and death! 

• Romans 4:1-8

Announcements

• Banquet
• Mini-Musical
• Church Choir
• Men's Breakfast
• Ladies' Bible Study
• Hymnal Committee Meeting
• Weekend Worship Services
  • Bible Class - The Lord's Supper
  • Sunday School - The Lost Sons
• Muffins with Mom
• Granny Shots
• TVBS Ice Cream and Information
• Board of Education
• Board of Property

Prayer List 

• Jim Lien
• Lynette Roehl
• Becky
• Pastor Tim Wheaton's Family
• Merl
• Roman Nathanael Mayhew
• End of School Year
• Mission in Congo

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 369 “All Mankind Fell in Adam’s Fall” 

Sermon Text: John 6:60-69 (NKJV)

Therefore many of His disciples, when they heard this, said, "This is a hard saying; who can understand it?" 61 When Jesus knew in Himself that His disciples complained about this, He said to them, "Does this offend you? 62 "What then if you should see the Son of Man ascend where He was before? 63 "It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life. 64 "But there are some of you who do not believe." For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were who did not believe, and who would betray Him. 65 And He said, "Therefore I have said to you that no one can come to Me unless it has been granted to him by My Father." 66 From that time many of His disciples went back and walked with Him no more. 67 Then Jesus said to the twelve, "Do you also want to go away?" 68 But Simon Peter answered Him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. 69 "Also we have come to believe and know that You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."

Theme: To Whom Shall We Go? 

The hymn emphasizes the PEACE that Jesus assures us of because of His life, death and resurrection for us. The opening verse points to the conclusion of worship shared by fellow believers and the LORD's promise to us in the Benediction at the close of every service: "The LORD bless you and keep you; The LORD make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you; The LORD lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace.” (Numbers 6:24-26) 

The Psalmist proclaimed: "The stone which the builders rejected Has become the chief cornerstone. 23  This was the LORD’S doing; It is marvelous in our eyes. 24  This is the day the LORD has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it. 25  Save now, I pray, O LORD; O LORD, I pray, send now prosperity. 26  Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD! We have blessed you from the house of the LORD. 27  God is the LORD, And He has given us light; Bind the sacrifice with cords to the horns of the altar. 28  You are my God, and I will praise You; You are my God, I will exalt You. 29 Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever." (Psalm 118:22-29)

The hymn is a prayer that the peace that we have been assured of by the LORD and through our pastor in worship, would go with us as we go into the world. We pray that Jesus would go with us, guard our lips and hearts from evil, both at night and during the day, and throughout our lives, until He calls us to PEACE in heaven. There is a final verse of the hymn that is not included in our hymnal that makes a beautiful connection to Easter, and the promise of peace from the Resurrected Savior. Ellerton wrote:

Grant us Thy peace – the peace Thou dids’t bestow On Thine apostles in Thine hour of woe; The peace Thou broughtest when at eventide They saw Thy pierced hands, Thy wounded side.

Yes, "Peace be to you!" Jesus says. To them, and to you!

May the peace of your Savior continue to encourage you in worship, and as you leave worship this and every weekend! Thanks be to God for the peace He gives!

• Romans 3:27-31

Announcements

• Cemetery Clean Up
• Confirmation
• Ladies' Auxiliary
• Church Choir
• Men's Breakfast
• Ladies' Bible Study
• Weekend Worship Services
  • Bible Class - The Lord's Supper
  • Sunday School - The Daughter of Jairus and The Canaanite Woman’s Daughter
  • Communion
• Board of Elders

Prayer List 

• Jim Lien
• Lynette Roehl
• Becky
• Pastor Tim Wheaton's Family
• Mark Geiger
• Steve Groth
• Merl
• Families who have lost loved ones
• Grace, Fridley and their new Pastor
• Congregations calling pastors/teachers.

Common Christian Q&A

• How can I trust in Christianity when so many Christians are hypocrites?

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 379 “I do Not Come Because My Soul” 

Sermon Text: Isaiah 40:26-31 (NKJV)

Lift up your eyes on high, And see who has created these things, Who brings out their host by number; He calls them all by name, By the greatness of His might And the strength of His power; Not one is missing. 27 Why do you say, O Jacob, And speak, O Israel: "My way is hidden from the LORD, And my just claim is passed over by my God"? 28 Have you not known? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the LORD, The Creator of the ends of the earth, Neither faints nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable. 29 He gives power to the weak, And to those who have no might He increases strength. 30 Even the youths shall faint and be weary, And the young men shall utterly fall, 31 But those who wait on the LORD Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.

Theme: The LORD is the Strength of the Weak and Weary 

The young people who will be making a public profession of their faith this weekend chose the following hymn as their Confirmation hymn. Hymn 784 in the Worship Supplement was written by Julia von Hausmann, and is entitled: "Lord, Take My Hand and Lead Me." It is certainly appropriate for that setting, and also serves as a reminder of how appropriate it is for each of us in our lives of faith. 

One of the incredible aspects of the choice of this hymn is how well it incorporates all four of the confirmation passages for our confirmands. Those passages are:

• Psalm 23 - The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2  He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. 3  He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake. 4  Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. 5  You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. 6  Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the LORD Forever.
• Philippians 4:13 - I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
• Romans 15:13 - Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
• Proverbs 3:5-7 - Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; 

Thanks be to the LORD, who makes these promises to these young people and as He continues to fulfill the promises that He has made to each of us through the work of Jesus!

• Romans 3:19-26

Announcements

• Quarterly Voters' Meeting
• Women's Study Guild
• Church Choir
• Men's Breakfast
• Ladies' Bible Study
• Cemetery Clean Up 
• Weekend Worship Services
  • Confirmation Sunday
  • No Bible Class
  • Sunday School - Jesus Calms the Storm
• Board of Education
• Ladies' Auxiliary

Prayer List 

• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Lynette Roehl
• Becky
• Mark Geiger
• Steve Groth
• Merl
• Encouraging others at Immanuel
• Senior Class Trip
• Missionary Ohlmann

Common Christian Q&A

• How were the books of the Bible selected? And why were some books left out?

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 375 “If Thy Beloved Son, O God” 

Sermon Text: Micah 7:14-20 (NKJV)

Shepherd Your people with Your staff, The flock of Your heritage, Who dwell solitarily in a woodland, In the midst of Carmel; Let them feed in Bashan and Gilead, As in days of old. 15 "As in the days when you came out of the land of Egypt, I will show them wonders." 16 The nations shall see and be ashamed of all their might; They shall put their hand over their mouth; Their ears shall be deaf. 17 They shall lick the dust like a serpent; They shall crawl from their holes like snakes of the earth. They shall be afraid of the LORD our God, And shall fear because of You. 18 Who is a God like You, Pardoning iniquity And passing over the transgression of the remnant of His heritage? He does not retain His anger forever, Because He delights in mercy. 19 He will again have compassion on us, And will subdue our iniquities. You will cast all our sins Into the depths of the sea. 20 You will give truth to Jacob And mercy to Abraham, Which You have sworn to our fathers From days of old.

Theme: The LORD Shepherds His People

1. With Power and Strength 2. With Compassion and Mercy

During Lent we focused on the willingness of Jesus to "lay down His life" for His sheep. During Easter we focus on His power to "take it again." He is risen! He has power over sin, death and even Satan himself. With that confidence in Jesus' victory and power we proclaim “none can take us from Your hand” (783:2).

This hymn, which was written by Irish Presbyterian, Henry Cooke, also emphasizes that we are saved by God's grace, not our own doing. The phrases "By Your life salvation wrought" (v.3) and "Father, draw us to Your Son" (v.4) especially emphasize God's grace which saves us. We are the sheep of His pasture. It is His love, His power that redeems and calls us, and which protects us. Thanks be to our Good Shepherd!

May the LORD bless your worship this weekend, as we rejoice in the life that is ours because of Jesus, our Good Shepherd!

• Romans 3:9-18

Announcements

• ILS Spring Concert
• Special Voters Meeting
• Outreach Meeting
• Youth Group Event
• Church Choir
• Men's Breakfast
• Ladies' Bible Study
• Cemetery Clean Up 
• Weekend Worship Services
  • Bible Class - Baptism
  • Sunday School - The Four Soils and the Workers in the Vineyard
• Quarterly Voters' Meeting
• Board of Deacons
• Women's Study Guild

Prayer List 

• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Lynette Roehl
• Becky
• Mark Geiger
• Steve Groth
• Judy Becker
• Voters Meeting
• Senior Class Trip
• CLC Board and Coordinating Council Meetings
• Mission in Nigeria

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 289 “The Law Commands and Makes Us Know” 

Sermon Text: John 21:15-19 (NKJV)

15 When they had eaten breakfast, Jesus asked Simon Peter,   “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?”   “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I care about you.”    Jesus told him, “Feed my lambs.”  16 A second time Jesus asked him,   “Simon, son of John, do you love me?”   He said, “Yes, Lord, you know that I care about you.”    Jesus told him, “Be a shepherd for my sheep.”  17 He asked him the third time,   “Simon, son of John, do you care about me?”    Peter was grieved because Jesus asked him the third time,   “Do you care about me?”    He answered, “Lord, you know all things. You know that I care about you.”    “Feed my sheep,” Jesus said.  18 “Amen, Amen, I tell you: When you were young, you dressed yourself and went wherever you wanted. But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will tie you and carry you where you do not want to go.” 19 Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. After saying this, he told him, “Follow me.”

Theme: The Risen Lord gives His people Purpose 

1. With Three Probing Questions

2. With Three Practical Commissions

The hymn is based on John 21:1-19, as Jesus appears to seven of His disciples while they are fishing on the Sea of Galilee. It reflects the Lord's call of four of those disciples three years earlier. Luke tells us: "But Simon answered and said to Him, “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.” And when they had done this, they caught a great number of fish, and their net was breaking. So they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink." (Luke 5:5-7).

This miraculous catch mirrored that earlier catch, when Jesus called them away from their nets, to be "Fishers of men" (Matthew 4:19). The hymn text points to the failures of the disciples of Jesus during the past weeks, the doubts, the denial, yet Jesus comes with love and forgiveness for them, calling them back to His service once more. 

The hymn concludes by connecting the promise and commissioning of Jesus in this resurrection account to you and me: 

Morning breaks, and Jesus meets us, Feeds and comforts, pardons still; As His faithful friends He greets us, Partners of His work and will. All our days, on ev’ry shore, Christ is ours forevermore!

Yes, indeed! Thanks be to God!

May our risen Lord's resurrection assure you of forgiveness for your sins, and remind you that your life has purpose as He calls you: "Follow Me!"

• Romans 3:1-8

Announcements

• Holy Week
• Easter Egg Hunt
• Church Council
• Preparing Phoebes
• Teaching Timothy's
• Women's Book Club
• Church Choir
• Men's Breakfast
• No Ladies' Bible Study
• Cemetery Clean Up 
• Hymnal Committee
• Weekend Worship Services
  • Bible Class - Fellowship
  • Sunday School - Calling Fishers of Men
• Sunday School Teachers Meeting
• ILS Spring Concert
• Special Voters' Meeting
• Outreach Meeting
• Board of Elders
• Board of Education
• Board of Property
• Youth Group Event

Prayer List 

• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Lynette Roehl
• Becky
• Wilton Landon
• Sue Heise
• Mark Geiger
• Tonii Friedrichs
• Blessings on the hearing of the Word
• Thank God for the Land Purchase Finances and General Budget Needs
• CLC Board Meetings and Coordinating Council

Common Christian Q&A

• If God knows everything then what’s the point in praying or talking to him at all?

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 608 “Let Thoughtless Thousands Choose the Road”

The hymn, "He's Risen, He's Risen, Christ Jesus the Lord" was written by Lutheran pastor and professor, C.F.W. Walther, who was probably the most important figure in American Lutheranism in the 19th century. He was also an accomplished musician, and wrote many hymns. This hymn was originally 11 stanzas, but our English translation was reduced to 5 verses.  

In this hymn we confess the work of Jesus for us, who went to war with the forces of death, hell and satan, and through His death, was victorious. It points not only to Christ's resurrection, but also the importance of Christ's atonement for sinners ("His blood does atone, redeemed and forgiven we now are His own.")

Walther emphasizes the truth set forth by the Apostle Paul: "So when this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: “Death is swallowed up in victory.” "O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?” The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." (1 Corinthians 15:54-57).

May your Savior's resurrection, which assures us of the death of death, give you joy, and motivate you to lift up your voices to sing His praise, this weekend and always!

• Romans 2:17-29

Announcements

• Arts Camp
• Immanuel Service Organization
• Patty Stelter Victory Service
• Bumper Magnets
• Church Choir
• Maundy Thursday
• Men's Breakfast
• Good Friday
• Ladies' Bible Study
• Resurrection of Jesus Christ Worship Services
  • Sunrise Service
  • No Bible Class or Sunday School
  • Pancake Breakfast 
• Board of Elders
• Church Council
• Preparing Phoebes
• Teaching Timothy's

Prayer List 

• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Lynette Roehl
• Becky
• Family of Patty Stelter
• Wilton Landon
• Sue Heise
• Land Purchase Opportunity
• Mission to Myanmar

Common Christian Q&A

• What are the actual dates that Jesus died and rose?

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 177 “Our Blessed Savior Seven Times Spoke”

Sermon Text: Zechariah 9:9-12 (NKJV)

“Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your King is coming to you; He is just and having salvation, Lowly and riding on a donkey, A colt, the foal of a donkey. 10 I will cut off the chariot from Ephraim And the horse from Jerusalem; The battle bow shall be cut off. He shall speak peace to the nations; His dominion shall be ‘from sea to sea, And from the River to the ends of the earth.’ 11 As for you also, Because of the blood of your covenant, I will set your prisoners free from the waterless pit. 12 Return to the stronghold, You prisoners of hope.  Even today I declare That I will restore double to you.”

Theme: The Multi-sided Work of the Messiah

1. As Our Prophet

2. As Our Priest

3. As Our King

All of this was in fulfillment of the Word of God in the Old Testament: 

The Prophet Zechariah declared: "Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your King is coming to you; He is just and having salvation, Lowly and riding on a donkey, A colt, the foal of a donkey." (Zechariah 9:9) 

The Psalmist proclaimed: "The stone which the builders rejected Has become the chief cornerstone. 23  This was the LORD’S doing; It is marvelous in our eyes. 24  This is the day the LORD has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it. 25  Save now, I pray, O LORD; O LORD, I pray, send now prosperity. 26  Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD! We have blessed you from the house of the LORD. 27  God is the LORD, And He has given us light; Bind the sacrifice with cords to the horns of the altar. 28  You are my God, and I will praise You; You are my God, I will exalt You. 29 Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever." (Psalm 118:22-29)

As we see the children joyfully proclaiming Jesus' praises, we reflect on what we are all called to do as redeemed children of God. We too, are to open our mouths to proclaim His praises!

May the LORD enable us, moved by the love of our Savior, to open our mouths to sing forth His praise! May the LORD bless your worship this weekend!

• Romans 2:12-16

Announcements

• Music Call for 2026-2027
• School Cook and Aide
• Bumper Magnets
• Time and Talents
• Basketball Award Night
• Midweek Lenten Service
• Ladies' Auxiliary
• Church Choir
• Men's Breakfast
• Arts Camp
• Ladies' Bible Study
• Weekend Worship
  • Bible Class - Church and Churches
  • Sunday School - Jesus’ Crucifixion, Burial, and Resurrection
• Patty Stelter Victory Service
• Holy Week
• Resurrection Sunday

Prayer List 

• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Lynette Roehl
• Becky
• Family of Patty Stelter
• Bev Menton
• Nelly Edwards
• Sue Heise
• Finances
• Mission to Kenya

Common Christian Q&A

• Does the Bible tell us how we should treat foreigners?

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 496 “Hark! The Voice of Jesus Crying”

Sermon Text: Numbers 21:4-9 (NKJV)

Then they journeyed from Mount Hor by the Way of the Red Sea, to go around the land of Edom; and the soul of the people became very discouraged on the way. 5 And the people spoke against God and against Moses: “Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? For there is no food and no water, and our soul loathes this worthless bread.” 6 So the LORD sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people; and many of the people of Israel died. 7 Therefore the people came to Moses, and said, “We have sinned, for we have spoken against the LORD and against you; pray to the LORD that He take away the serpents from us.” So Moses prayed for the people. 8 Then the LORD said to Moses, “Make a fiery serpent, and set it on a pole; and it shall be that everyone who is bitten, when he looks at it, shall live.” 9 So Moses made a bronze serpent, and put it on a pole; and so it was, if a serpent had bitten anyone, when he looked at the bronze serpent, he lived.

Theme: A Deserved Punishment - A Needed Deliverance

1. For Israel
2. For Everyone

While this hymn is not strictly a "Lent" hymn, it fits nicely during the season of Lent. It points clearly to the suffering (verse 2) and death (verse 4) of Jesus at the cross (verse 3), and the necessity for it. Jesus, through His perfect life (verses 1 and 5), and His suffering and death, has done what no one else could. He accomplished what sinners desperately needed to be delivered from the curse of sin. We are powerless to save ourselves. Jesus alone is "the way, the truth and the life" (John 14:6).

As you sing this hymn, reflect on your utter helplessness under the Law of God, and your desperate need for salvation. Thank God, that this need has been fulfilled by God in the person and work of Jesus. There is no salvation, anywhere else! There is no one, no thing, else we can to turn to for this salvation. Jesus alone is the Savior we need. Rejoice in that truth, and revel in the joy that truth brings!

As you sing this hymn, you are not only reveling in its truth, but you are also declaring this truth to others. It is an encouragement to your fellow Christians to hear you make this declaration!

• Romans 2:1-11

Announcements

• Grade School Basketball Tournament
• Music Call for 2026-2027
• Need for School Cook and Aide
• Bumper Magnets
• Midweek Lenten Service
• Church Choir
• Men's Breakfast
• Ladies' Bible Study
• Hymnal Committee
• Weekend Worship
  • Bible Class - The Word of the Lord Grows
  • Sunday School - Rejected in Nazareth
  • Time and Talent
  • Name Tag
• Usher Meeting
• Tour Choir
• Board of Education
• Next Week's Midweek Lenten Service
• Ladies' Auxiliary
• Arts Camp

Prayer List 

• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Lynette Roehl
• Becky
• Bev Menton
• Jean Moeri
• Finances
• Laborers

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 496 “Hark! The Voice of Jesus Crying”

Sermon Text: 2 Corinthians 7:4-10 (NKJV)

Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my boasting on your behalf. I am filled with comfort. I am exceedingly joyful in all our tribulation. 5 For indeed, when we came to Macedonia, our bodies had no rest, but we were troubled on every side. Outside were conflicts, inside were fears. 6 Nevertheless God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus, 7 and not only by his coming, but also by the consolation with which he was comforted in you, when he told us of your earnest desire, your mourning, your zeal for me, so that I rejoiced even more. 8 For even if I made you sorry with my letter, I do not regret it; though I did regret it. For I perceive that the same epistle made you sorry, though only for a while. 9 Now I rejoice, not that you were made sorry, but that your sorrow led to repentance. For you were made sorry in a godly manner, that you might suffer loss from us in nothing. 10 For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.

Theme: Godly Sorrow Produces Repentance

1. Outside Are Conflicts, Inside Are Fears
2. Nevertheless, God Comforts the Downcast

In this hymn, Savonarola points to who Jesus is (Refuge, Redeemer, Fountain, Savior) and what He has done (bore the pain of all) and what He offers us through His work (life eternal, peace and rest). With this reminder, the reformer calls the Christian to a deep appreciation of Christ's work, through Spirit worked repentance. May the LORD work such repentance in each of us! 

The final verse is a prayer that the Lord would give us such a deep appreciation for Christ's work, that we might confess with the Apostle Paul: “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me." (Galatians 2:20).

Study this hymn with us, as we are reminded of dire nature of our problem of sin, and our Savior's wonderful and necessary work of Redemption for us. 

Rejoice in that salvation!

• Romans 1:24-32

Announcements

• Hymnal Committee
• ERC
• Boy's Basketball Tournament
• Music Call for 2026-2027
• Need for School Cook and Aide
• Midweek Lenten Service
• Church Choir
• Men's Breakfast
• Red Cross Blood Drive
• Weekend Worship
  • Bible Class - The Word of the Lord Grows
  • Sunday School - Rejected in Nazareth
• Board of Deacons
• Board of Elders
• Women’s Study Guild
• Church Council
• Next Week's Midweek Lenten Service

Prayer List 

• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Lynette Roehl
• Becky
• Family of Patty Stelter
• Betty Wolle
• Jean Moeri
• Events in the Middle East
• Outreach Efforts
• ILC Tour Choir

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 295 “The Law of God Is Good and Wise”

Sermon Text: Luke 9:51-56 (NKJV)

Now it came to pass, when the time had come for Him to be received up, that He steadfastly set His face to go to Jerusalem, 52 and sent messengers before His face. And as they went, they entered a village of the Samaritans, to prepare for Him. 53 But they did not receive Him, because His face was set for the journey to Jerusalem. 54 And when His disciples James and John saw this, they said, "Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them, just as Elijah did?" 55 But He turned and rebuked them, and said, "You do not know what manner of spirit you are of. 56 "For the Son of Man did not come to destroy men's lives but to save them." And they went to another village.

Theme: The Face Set Like Flint

1. Steadfast in His Purpose

2. Merciful in His Spirit

The prophet Isaiah described what the Messiah came to accomplish in Isaiah 53:4-9 - "Surely He has borne our griefs And carried our sorrows; Yet we esteemed Him stricken, Smitten by God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; We have turned, every one, to his own way; And the LORD has laid on Him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed and He was afflicted, Yet He opened not His mouth; He was led as a lamb to the slaughter, And as a sheep before its shearers is silent, So He opened not His mouth. He was taken from prison and from judgment, And who will declare His generation? For He was cut off from the land of the living; For the transgressions of My people He was stricken. And they made His grave with the wicked—But with the rich at His death, Because He had done no violence, Nor was any deceit in His mouth."

With Gerhardt we joyfully procliam: "O wondrous Love! what hast Thou done! The Father offers up His Son– The Son content descendeth! O Love, how strong Thou art to save!" (TLH 142:3). What amazing love indeed!

The knowledge of God's love in Christ, and Christ's love at the cross move us as well. Paul writes: "Likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 6:11). We are moved to service to our God and Savior, in this life, with our hands, our hearts and our voices!

May the LORD bring you to a true appreciation for love He has shown you, and move you to live your life in service to Him, giving you joyful and thankful hearts for His salvation. May the LORD bless your worship this weekend!

• Psalm 146

Announcements

• Outreach Committee Meeting
• Music Call for 2026-2027
• Need for School Cook and Aide
• Midweek Lenten Service
• Boy's Basketball Tournament
• Church Choir
• Men's Breakfast
• Ladies Bible Study
• Weekend Worship - Communion
  • Bible Class - The Holy Christian Church
  • Sunday School - Jesus and Nicodemus
• Next Week's Midweek Lenten Service

Prayer List 

• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Lynette Roehl
• Becky
• Boys' Basketball Team
• Missions in DR Congo

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 234 “Holy Ghost with Light Divine”

Sermon Text: 1 John 2:12-17 (NKJV)

I write to you, little children, Because your sins are forgiven you for His name’s sake. 13 I write to you, fathers, Because you have known Him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, Because you have overcome the wicked one. I write to you, little children, Because you have known the Father. 14 I have written to you, fathers, Because you have known Him who is from the beginning. I have written to you, young men, Because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, And you have overcome the wicked one. 15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. 17 And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.

Theme: Remember that You are God’s Children!

This hymn acknowledges our need for help from God because of the enemies that we face, confesses our sin and unworthiness before a holy God, and a desire to praise the LORD for His mercy and grace and to live our lives to and for Him, in deep thanksgiving for His mercy. 

This is a prayer that can and should be prayed by every believer in Jesus. It includes Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving and Supplication. Join with Paul Eber, Christians of the past and those of the future in praying to our Faithful God to help us in our deepest time of need, and rejoicing in our confidence that He will hear and answer.

The LORD bless your worship this weekend!

• Romans 1:18-23

Announcements

• Call News
• Music Call for 2026-2027
• Midweek Lenten Service
• Girl's Basketball Tournament
• Church Choir
• Men's Breakfast
• Ladies Bible Study
• Weekend Worship - Communion
  • Bible Class - The Holy Spirit
  • Sunday School - Jesus Changes Water into Wine
• Board of Elders
• Next Week's Midweek Lenten Service

Prayer List 

• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Lynette Roehl
• Becky
• Girl's Basketball Team
• Mission in Myanmar

Common Christian Q&A

• What's the deal with all those Old Testament Laws?

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 43 “We Sing the Almighty Power of God”

Sermon Text: Genesis 22:1-14 (NKJV)

Now it came to pass after these things that God tested Abraham, and said to him, "Abraham!" And he said, "Here I am." 2 Then He said, "Take now your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you." 3 So Abraham rose early in the morning and saddled his donkey, and took two of his young men with him, and Isaac his son; and he split the wood for the burnt offering, and arose and went to the place of which God had told him. 4 Then on the third day Abraham lifted his eyes and saw the place afar off. 5 And Abraham said to his young men, "Stay here with the donkey; the lad and I will go yonder and worship, and we will come back to you." 6 So Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering and laid it on Isaac his son; and he took the fire in his hand, and a knife, and the two of them went together. 7 But Isaac spoke to Abraham his father and said, "My father!" And he said, "Here I am, my son." Then he said, "Look, the fire and the wood, but where is the lamb for a burnt offering?" 8 And Abraham said, "My son, God will provide for Himself the lamb for a burnt offering." So the two of them went together. 9 Then they came to the place of which God had told him. And Abraham built an altar there and placed the wood in order; and he bound Isaac his son and laid him on the altar, upon the wood. 10 And Abraham stretched out his hand and took the knife to slay his son. 11 But the Angel of the LORD called to him from heaven and said, "Abraham, Abraham!" So he said, "Here I am." 12 And He said, "Do not lay your hand on the lad, or do anything to him; for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from Me." 13 Then Abraham lifted his eyes and looked, and there behind him was a ram caught in a thicket by its horns. So Abraham went and took the ram, and offered it up for a burnt offering instead of his son. 14 And Abraham called the name of the place, The-LORD-Will-Provide; as it is said to this day, "In the Mount of The LORD it shall be provided."

Theme: A Foreshadowing of God’s Sacrifice

1. A Father Willing to Sacrifice His Son

2. A Son Willing to Sacrifice Himself

That theme is beautifully described by Philip Doddridge in "Grace Has a Thrilling Sound" (TLH 374; WS 778). This hymn is based on Paul's words to the believers in Ephesus: 

"But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), 6 and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them" (Ephesians 2:4-10).

God's grace has accomplished our salvation, from beginning to end. Our election is by His grace. Our faith is by His grace. Our Christian lives are lived by His grace. Our entrance into Heaven is by His grace. Jesus is the Author and Finisher of our faith! 

Grace is indeed a thrilling sound in the ear of a believer! When we know our sin and what we deserve because of it, we can't help but be joyful when we hear God's message of grace in Christ!

Rejoice in that grace! Praise Him, this weekend and always!

• Romans 1:16-17

Announcements

• John Hein’s victory service
• Church Council
• Music Call for 2026-2027
• Ash Wednesday Service
• Soup Supper
• Board of Elders
• Church Choir
• Men's Breakfast
• Ladies Bible Study
• Weekend Worship
  • Bible Class - The Resurrection of Jesus
  • Sunday School - The Temptation of Jesus
• Sunday School Teacher's Meeting
• Board of Education

Prayer List 

• Lynette Roehl
• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Becky
• Family of Pastor John Hein
• Marvin Schweim
• Erinn Bergemann
• Preaching and Hearing of God's Word this Lent
• Mission in India

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 141 “Enslaved by Sin and Bound in Chains”

Sermon Text: John 11:47-57 (NKJV)

Then the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered a council and said, “What shall we do? For this Man works many signs. 48  “If we let Him alone like this, everyone will believe in Him, and the Romans will come and take away both our place and nation.” 49  And one of them, Caiaphas, being high priest that year, said to them, “You know nothing at all, 50 nor do you consider that it is expedient for us that one man should die for the people, and not that the whole nation should perish.” 51  Now this he did not say on his own [authority]; but being high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the nation, 52  and not for that nation only, but also that He would gather together in one the children of God who were scattered abroad. 53  Then, from that day on, they plotted to put Him to death. 54  Therefore Jesus no longer walked openly among the Jews, but went from there into the country near the wilderness, to a city called Ephraim, and there remained with His disciples. 55  And the Passover of the Jews was near, and many went from the country up to Jerusalem before the Passover, to purify themselves. 56  Then they sought Jesus, and spoke among themselves as they stood in the temple, “What do you think—that He will not come to the feast?” 57  Now both the chief priests and the Pharisees had given a command, that if anyone knew where He was, he should report it, that they might seize Him.

Theme: One Man Would Die for the People 

We will be singing "In the Cross of Christ I glory" by John Bowring this weekend. This hymn is more emotional and personal than we might be used to from Lutheran hymn writers. While it is based on truths from Scripture, it is not a teaching hymn, as much as a reflective, contemplative hymn. 

Galatians 6:14 serves as one of the main passages brought out by this hymn. There Paul writes: "But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world."

In both the good and the trouble of this life, the work of Jesus stands as the most important and impactful event of history. It is our comfort in times of trial, and it remains our confidence in times of success. Just as the LORD worked through the good and evil in the lives of His people (like Joseph, David, and Peter), the LORD also sanctifies the good and the bad of your life. He uses it to His glory just as Paul declares in Romans 8:28: "we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose." 

Thanks be to God! Thank Him for the confidence that is ours in sins forgiven and eternal life because of the work of Jesus at the cross. Reflect on that truth during this upcoming Lenten season. Rejoice in the peace and the joy that are now yours by God's grace, through the cross!

May the LORD bless your proclamation of His praises this weekend!

• Romans 1:8-15

Announcements

• ERC Meeting
• Early Out Today
• Youth Group
• Board of Education
• Church Choir
• Men's Breakfast
• Ladies Bible Study
• Weekend Worship
  • Bible Class - Death and Resurrection of Jesus
  • Sunday School - The Baptism of Jesus
• Board of Deacons
• Women's Study Guild
• Church Council
• Ash Wednesday - February 18
• Lenten Soup Supper

Prayer List 

• Family of Pastor John Hein
• Lynette Roehl
• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Becky
• Members at a Distance
• Mission in Bangladesh

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 470 “Rise Again, Ye Lion-Hearted”

Sermon Text: John 11:20-27 (NKJV)

Then Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met Him, but Mary was sitting in the house. 21 Then Martha said to Jesus, "Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died. 22 "But even now I know that whatever You ask of God, God will give You." 23 Jesus said to her, "Your brother will rise again." 24 Martha said to Him, "I know that he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day." 25 Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. 26 "And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?" 27 She said to Him, "Yes, Lord, I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, who is to come into the world."

Theme: Our Death Defying Savior

1. Announces His Coming Victory

2. Invites Us to Declare His Victory

This hymn by Julia Elliott does several creative things. First it uses the Biblical idea of light vs. darkness in each of the verses, tying this concept to three different historical events: The creation of Light, the resurrection of Jesus, and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost. With each verse she focuses on a different person of the Triune God. And in each verse she points out that we pray that our Triune God would continue His work of bringing light into our dark lives and world through the Gospel. 

Ephesians 5:13-17 serves as part of the basis for this beautiful hymn. There Paul writes: "But all things that are exposed are made manifest by the light, for whatever makes manifest is light. Therefore He says: “Awake, you who sleep, Arise from the dead, And Christ will give you light.” See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is."  

Join us in our study of this hymn and its writer, and as we learn more about the Scriptural foundation and meaning of our hymns so that our use of them would be more beneficial as we gather in worship and use this hymn of praise.

May the LORD bless you as He enlightens you through His word this weekend!

• Romans 1:5-7

Announcements

• Virtual Women's Retreat Watch Party
• Installation of Church Officers and Board Members
• Voters' Meeting
• Church Choir
• Men's Breakfast
• Ladies Bible Study
• Weekend Worship
  • Bible Class - Death and Resurrection of Jesus
  • Sunday School - The Twelve-Year-Old Jesus
• Immanuel Women who Hike
• ERC Meeting
• Board of Elders
• Board of Property
• Youth Group
• Board of Education
• Ash Wednesday - February 18

Prayer List 

• Lynette Roehl
• Pastor John Hein
• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Becky
• Phyllis Brandt
• Mary Schweim
• Pastoral Assistants
• Seminary in Tanzania

Hymn of the Day

• WS 778 “Grace Has a Thrilling Sound”

Sermon Text: Luke 10:38-42 (NKJV)

Now it happened as they went that He entered a certain village; and a certain woman named Martha welcomed Him into her house. 39 And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus’ feet and heard His word. 40  But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore tell her to help me.” 41 And Jesus answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. 42  “But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.” 

Theme: One Thing Is Needed

The doctrine of the Lord's Supper is a very important and serious doctrine. The proper understanding and use of it has great implications in a Christian's life. Paul says: 

For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus on the same night in which He was betrayed took bread; 24 and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, “Take, eat; this is My body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” 25 In the same manner He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.” 26 For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes. 27 Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. 28 But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. 29 For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. (1 Corinthians 11:23-29) 

The hymn we are studying this weekend is 305 in The Lutheran Hymnal: "Soul, Adorn Thyself with Gladness." This hymn was written by a Lutheran laymen in the 1600's, who studied law, but also was concerned about the study of Christian doctrine and used his gifts to write many hymns reflecting on those Christian doctrines. 

In this hymn he reflects on the joy that is ours in being able to receive the Lord's Supper. He reminds us what it is that we are receiving here: A precious treasure from God that cannot be purchased with any thing on this earth. Only His blood could win it, and He offers it to us by His grace. 

He also correctly teaches the doctrine of Christ's real presence, that Jesus tells us that we receive His very body and blood, with the bread and the wine of the Lord's Supper. The elements of bread and wine do not merely symbolize His body and blood, Jesus says: "This IS my body... this is my blood of the new covenant" (Matthew 26:26-28).

While our reason cannot comprehend this truth, it does not change Jesus' clear words and Paul's warning.

May the LORD lead us to a deep yearning and hunger for this Sacrament because of the promises of Jesus to sinners such as us. We should take our preparation for the Lord's Supper seriously, we should treat it with the respect that it is due, but we should also receive it with absolute joy and with the confidence that forgiveness, life and salvation are mine in and through it!

LORD, bless our mediation on Your promises and gifts in this sacrament and receive them eagerly, often, and with great joy!

• Romans 1:1-4

Announcements

• Whitewater Youth Camp
• Church Board Reorganization Meeting
• Outreach Committee Meeting
• Ladies' Auxiliary
• Board of Education
• Church Choir
• Men's Breakfast
• No Ladies Bible Study
• Virtual Women’s Retreat Watch Party
• Weekend Worship
  • Bible Class - Death and Resurrection of Jesus
  • Sunday School - Joseph Makes Himself Known
• Installation of Church Officers and Board Members
• Recessed Voters' Meeting
• Veteran's Memorial Bridge Closing
• Ash Wednesday - February 18

Prayer List 

• Pastor John Hein
• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Becky
• Phyllis Brandt
• Mary Schweim
• ERC Work
• CLC Mission in Philippines

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 347 “Jesus, Priceless Treasure”

• Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

Announcements

• Annual Voters' Meeting Recap
• Women's Book Club
• Church Choir
• Men's Breakfast
• Whitewater Youth Camp
• No Ladies Bible Study
• Weekend Worship
  • Bible Class - The Ministry of Jesus
  • Sunday School - Joseph’s Brothers come to Egypt and Joseph Tests His Brothers
• Installation of Church Officers and Board Members
• Veteran's Memorial Bridge Closing
• Recessed Voters' Meeting
• Ash Wednesday - February 18

Prayer List 

• Pastor John Hein
• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Becky
• Phyllis Brandt
• Whitewater Camp
• Alice Naumann Family
• Christian Persecution
• Political Unrest
• CLC Mission in Pakistan
• New Board Members

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 283 “God’s Word Is Our Great Heritage”

Sermon Text: John 1:43-51 (NKJV)

The following day Jesus wanted to go to Galilee, and He found Philip and said to him, "Follow Me." 44 Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. 45 Philip found Nathanael and said to him, "We have found Him of whom Moses in the law, and also the prophets, wrote-- Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph." 46 And Nathanael said to him, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" Philip said to him, "Come and see." 47 Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward Him, and said of him, "Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit!" 48 Nathanael said to Him, "How do You know me?" Jesus answered and said to him, "Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you." 49 Nathanael answered and said to Him, "Rabbi, You are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!" 50 Jesus answered and said to him, "Because I said to you, ‘I saw you under the fig tree,’ do you believe? You will see greater things than these." 51 And He said to him, "Most assuredly, I say to you, hereafter you shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man."

Theme: Prove It!

1. The Invitation: “Come and See” 2. The Affirmation: “I Saw You” 3. The Future Vision: “You Shall See”

The hymn we are studying this weekend is 277 in The Lutheran Hymnal: "I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say." This hymn was written by a Scottish pastor, Horatius Bonar, who was compelled to write hymns that children could understand. You will see in this hymn a very simple style and simple concepts drawn from three different statements and invitations of Jesus:  

• Matthew 11:28 - “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

The first verse is based on Jesus' invitation in Matthew, for rest which only He can give.

• John 4:14 - “Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.”

The second verse is based on Jesus' words to the Woman of Samaria about the Life that He alone offers through His Word.

• John 8:12 - Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”

The third verse is based on the words of Jesus in John 8 about the Light that He brings to the dark world because of sin and death.

Each of these invitations is followed by the Christian's response to that invitation, by God's grace, and describes what we receive from Him as a result of His life and death for us, and the gifts He offers us in His Word and Sacrament. 

Lord, lead us to listen to and respond to Your invitation of Grace, that we might receive Your rich blessings!

May the LORD bless your reflection on this truth this weekend.

• Ecclesiastes 12:1-8

Announcements

• Special Voters' Meeting
• Board of Deacons Meeting
• Church Choir
• Church Council
• Men's Breakfast
• Ladies Bible Study
• Weekend Worship
  • Bible Class - The Birth of Jesus
  • Sunday School - Joseph Becomes Ruler of Egypt
• Annual Voters' Meetings
• Whitewater Youth Camp

Prayer List 

• Pastor John Hein
• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Becky
• Eunice Mutzke
• Naumann Family
• Christian Persecution
• Political Unrest
• Men and Women Leaders at Immanuel
• CLC Mission in Myanmar

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 596 “This Body in the Grave We Lay”

Sermon Text: 2 Corinthians 4:3-6 (NKJV)

But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, 4 whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them. 5 For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus' sake. 6 For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

Theme: It's not the Container, it's the Contents!

This weekend we will be studying that revelation, both to the Wise Men and to us. We are studying hymn 718 in the Worship Supplement or 130 in The Lutheran Hymnal: O Jesus, King of Glory. This hymn was written by Lutheran Pastor, Martin Behm about two generations after Martin Luther.  

The hymn recounts the Biblical account of the Wise Men, and connect them to us today. 

There are several themes in this hymn that are worth paying attention to. First, note the emphasis on Jesus as King and the Kingdom that He opens to us. But Jesus is unlike and more than just any earthly King. The Wise Men came looking for "the King of the Jews" but knew that Jesus was also the King of all Kings. The gifts they brought reveal they understood He was a King (gold), that He was true God (frankincense) and that He would die (myrrh). We find this theme in all five verses which we will be studying. 

The second theme revolves around the star. God used a star to reveal that the Savior had been born, but also used it to direct the Wise Men to the very place where Jesus was. Behm reveals that, like the Wise Men, God has revealed this truth to us as well. Not by a physical star or light in the sky, but by the light of His revealed Word. God's Word is given to reveal Jesus as King and Savior, and guide us to believe in Him, and worship Him as our Savior. Make use of that Star, just as the faithful Wise Men did!

The hymn includes a prayer to Jesus to guard, guide us in our lives, until we are finally called into that eternal Kingdom of glory, to be with our King of Glory for eternity.

Wise Men still seek Jesus, though His Word and Sacrament, and worship Him as King and Savior. 

May the LORD bless your worship of Jesus the King of Glory, this weekend!

• Ecclesiastes 11:7-10

Announcements

• Gym Floor Refinished
• New Year’s Eve service
• New Year’s Bell ringing
• New Year’s Day service
• Resumed Bible Class and Sunday school
• Undecorating the church
• Non-ILS Catechism class resumes
• Church Choir
• Men's Breakfast
• Ladies Bible Study
• Weekend Worship
  • Bible Class - Kingdom of Judah
  • Sunday School - The Wise Men and The Flight to Egypt
• Upcoming Voters' Meetings
• Whitewater Youth Camp

Prayer List 

• Pastor John Hein
• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Becky
• Eunice Mutzke
• Bob Heller
• Maher Family
• January 12 Voters' Meeting
• CLC Vacancies and Iowa Group

Common Christian Q&A

• If the head coverings section in 1 Corinthians is meant to only be understood in application to the Corinthian Christians, then why did many Christians around the world and in the US continue to wear head coverings (hats and bonnets) until the 1950’s, which happens to correspond with the rise of the feminist movement.

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 589 “Oh, How Blest Are You Whose Toils are Ended”

Sermon Text: 1 Timothy 3:16 (NKJV)

And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifested in the flesh, Justified in the Spirit, Seen by angels, Preached among the Gentiles, Believed on in the world, Received up in glory.

Theme: Great is the Mystery, Great is the Joy!

The hymn we are studying this week was written by Newton and is a beautiful depiction of the blessings and joys of those who are part of the Holy Christian Church by faith. It is one of Newton's greatest hymns, and shows the depth of his knowledge of the Scriptures, as he weaves many Old Testament accounts into the hymn. Some of these include:

• Zion -which is the hill upon which Jerusalem was built, which is a picture of the Church of Jesus
• Rock of Ages - a description of Jesus who Peter calls the "living stone"
• Living waters - a picture of the water from the rock during Moses' leadership, but also Jesus who offers water which springs up to everlasting life
• Pillar of fire and cloud - what the LORD used in the days of Moses to protect and lead the children of Israel
• Manna - the food from heaven which God supplied to Israel, and which points to Jesus

The hymn reminds us that we are only a member of the Church by grace (see verse 3), and the many blessings that are ours as a result of being part of that Church by faith. 

Take comfort in the truth that you are a member of God's kingdom. Rejoice in the many blessings that are yours through Christ. Thanks be to God for His protection and His guidance through His Word and Sacrament during our journey in this life!

• Ecclesiastes 11:1-6

Announcements

• Christmas Eve Service
• Christmas Day Service
• Egon Mutzke Victory Service
• Blizzard Effects
• Gym Floor Refinishing
• New Year's Eve Service
• New Year's Day Service
• No Church Choir this week
• Men's Breakfast
• Ladies Bible Study
• Weekend Worship
  • Bible Class - Divided Kingdom/Prophets
  • Sunday School - The Birth of Jesus
• Devotion books
• Undecorating Church
• School Resumes
• Board of Elders
• Outreach Committee
• Upcoming Voters' Meetings

Prayer List 

• Pastor John Hein
• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Becky
• Mutzke Family
• Bob Heller
• Ted Schreyer
• Larry Hartman
• Maher Family
• January 12 Voters' Meeting
• Pastor Paul Nolting travel to Tanzania

Hymn of the Day

• LSB 899 “Across the Sky the Shades of Night”

Sermon Text: 2 Corinthians 5:1-9 (NKJV)

For we know that if our earthly house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. 2 For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed with our habitation which is from heaven, 3 if indeed, having been clothed, we shall not be found naked. 4 For we who are in this tent groan, being burdened, not because we want to be unclothed, but further clothed, that mortality may be swallowed up by life. 5 Now He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who also has given us the Spirit as a guarantee. 6 So we are always confident, knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord. 7 For we walk by faith, not by sight. 8 We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord. 9 Therefore we make it our aim, whether present or absent, to be well pleasing to Him.

Theme: Christmas Confidence

1. The Hope of Heaven

2. The Guarantee of the Spirit

3. The Eyes of Faith

This hymn successively incorporates all creatures – the angels (verse 1), the shepherds (verse 2), the wise men (verse 3), believers (verse 4), and all people (verse 5 - not in our hymnal) – in the call to “come and worship, worship Christ, the newborn King!” The text was originally in five stanzas, although many hymnals now delete the fifth stanza which is a wonderful review of why Christmas was so important. The missing fifth stanza is:

Sinners, wrung with true repentance, Doomed for guilt to endless pains, Justice now revokes the sentence; Mercy calls you, break your chains; Come and worship, Come and worship; Worship Christ, the new-born King.

Come and Worship! Worship the one who has come for you, to fulfill divine justice through His life and death and brought you salvation! Join the angels, the shepherds, the wise men, and the saints of the past and the saints who are your fellow believers, in worshipping Him! Worship Christ, the New-born King!

• 2 Corinthians 8:9

Announcements

• 5th-8th Christmas Party
• Ladies Ugly Sweater Party
• Christmas Break
• Church Board Updates
• No Men’s Breakfast
• Ladies Bible Study 
• Egon Mutzke Victory Service
• Weekend Worship
  • No Bible Class or Sunday School this weekend
• Gym Floor Refinishing
• New Year's Eve Service
• New Year's Day Service
• Upcoming Voters' Meetings

Prayer List 

• Pastor John Hein
• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Becky
• Mutzke Family
• Bob Heller
• School Teachers and Helpers
• Three Full-Time Missionaries

Common Christian Q&A

• Is there a natural explanation to the Christmas Star?

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 96 TLH "Oh, Rejoice, Ye Christians, Loudly"

Sermon Text: Matthew 1:19-25 (NKJV)

Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly. 20 But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. 21 “And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.” 22 So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying: 23 “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.” 24 Then Joseph, being aroused from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord commanded him and took to him his wife, 25 and did not know her till she had brought forth her firstborn Son. And he called His name JESUS.

Theme: O Come, O Immanuel

In the hymn "Ye Sons of Men, Oh, Hearken" we are reminded of the need for sinners to receive forgiveness through the work of Jesus. Without Jesus there can be no forgiveness, no hope of eternal life. God desires the salvation of every sinner, which is why He planned salvation through the incarnation and death of His own Son. He also sends His Spirit to work in our hearts to prepare us for receiving that gift, through true understanding of our sin, sorrow over it, and faith in Jesus' work for us. Through His Law and Gospel, this important work of preparation is carried out. "God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble" (1 Peter 5:6).

With Valentinus Thilo, we join in praying:

"Prepare my heart, Lord Jesus, Turn not from me aside,  And grant that I receive Thee This blessed Advent-tide. From stall and manger low Come Thou to dwell within me; Loud praises will I sing Thee And forth Thy glory show."

May the LORD prepare each of us through true repentance and faith in Jesus during this Advent season and always, and enable us to thank Him through the loud praises we offer Him in our worship and with our lives!

• Ecclesiastes 10:16-20

Announcements

• Church Council
• ERC Presentation
• Kiwanis Lights
• Advent Service
• Ladies Auxiliary
• Board of Deacons
• Board of Elders
• Church Choir
• Men’s Breakfast
• Ladies Bible Study 
• 5th - 8th Christmas Party
• Weekend Worship
• Ladies Ugly Sweater Party
• Christmas Eve Practices
• Christmas Eve Children's Service
• Christmas Day Service

Prayer List 

• Pastor John Hein
• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Becky
• Erin Breegeman
• Bob Heller
• Pastor Naumann's Call to Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Phoenix, AZ
• High School Social Studies Teacher Ben Hanel
• 7th-8th Grade Teacher Julie Busch
• Mission in DR Congo CCLC and ECLSAFA

Common Christian Q&A

• If everyone in the world came from Adam and Eve then why are their people of different colors and ethnicities?

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 580 “To Thee, Our God, We Fly”

Sermon Text: Luke 1:76-79 (NKJV)

“And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, 77 To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins, 78 Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us; 79 To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, To guide our feet into the way of peace.”

Theme: O Come, O Dayspring

Nilolai’s seven original German stanzas of “How Lovely Shines the Morning Star” are an acrostic tribute to his friend and former student in Waldeck. The first letters of those seven verses are W,E,G,V,H,Z,W, which stands for “Willhelm Ernst, Graf vnd Herr zu Waldeck” (William Ernest, count and lord in Waldeck).

Nicolai has wonderfully captured the Christian faith in this hymn as he shows Christ’s love for His Bride, the Church. He constantly makes both obvious and hidden allusions to the Lord’s Supper, which is Christ’s way of feeding and preserving all of us. Ultimately our greatest joy is in Christ, the First and Last, who will transport us to His happy home where we will be with Him forever in the greatest joy. Until that day, we look for His returning with deep and eager yearning. 

Oh Christian, rejoice in the salvation that is yours through Christ, your Morning Star. Sing praise to your Bridegroom, who feeds and nourishes your faith through Word and Sacrament. Proclaim the His praises, this weekend and throughout your life!

• Ecclesiastes 10:12-15

Announcements

• Chili Supper
• Advent Services
• Youth Group Canceled
• Church Choir
• Church Council
• Men’s Breakfast
• Ladies Bible Study 
• Coffee and Creativity
• Caroling
• Kiwanis Volunteers
• Weekend Worship
• Women's Study Guild
• Ladies Auxiliary
• Christmas Eve Practices
• Christmas Eve Time - 5pm

Prayer List 

• Pastor John Hein
• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Becky
• Gerhard and Carolyn Matzke
• Tom McLaughlin
• High School Language Teacher Beth Greve and 5th-6th Grade Teacher Stephanie Roettger
• Mission in Tanzania and Kenya

Common Christian Q&A

• Who was Urijah the son of Shemaiah?

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 294 “O Word of God Incarnate”

To hear the sermon preached at Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mankato, Minnesota on December 7, 2025, go to our YouTube Channel.

Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” John 8:12  

The Prophecy Candle is the 1st candle lit the first week in Advent.  It is symbolic of the long years of waiting during which the prophets, inspired of God, kept alive the hope that the Son of God was coming to redeem His people from their sins.

• "Therefore... rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ" (1 Peter 1:13)

The Bethlehem Candle is the 2nd candle lit.  It symbolizes the peace that comes to sinners and the preparations God made for the coming of the world's Savior. The prophecy in Micah 5:2 that foretold Jesus' birthplace at Bethlehem may seem to be a minor revelation, but it shows how God prepared even the least detail for the coming of Christ.

• “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Though you are little among the thousands of Judah, Yet out of you shall come forth to Me The One to be Ruler in Israel, Whose goings forth are from of old, From everlasting.” (Micah 5:2)

The Shepherds' Candle is the 3rd candle lit and reminds us of our responsibility to share the Savior and His promises. The shepherds left their task and went with haste to see the Christ-child; then they returned to joyfully tell others about the good news of the Savior.

• “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people." ...  Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. (Luke 2:11,17)

The Angels' Candle is lit the 4th week of Advent.  It reminds us of the activity of the angels before and after Jesus' birth, bearing messages, ministering, protecting, praising; they will be with Jesus at His final coming on Judgment Day, to gather the nations.

• "All the angels stood around the throne and the elders and the four living creatures, and fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God" (Revelation 7:11)

The Christ Candle is the white candle in the center, and is lit on Christmas Eve. It signals that He Who is the Light of the world has been born.

The light these candles put forth seems small;  so does the gospel at times.  But to those in lonely darkness, it is the powerful light which shows the way to Heaven.

The hymn writer calls believers to live with lives of watchfulness but also with confidence as we wait for the coming of our Savior. The words direct our attention away from the sin and brokenness of this world and to the promise of Life in Heaven. While we suffer now, those sufferings cannot compare to the glory which is yet to come for the Child of God. The Christian's hope does not rest upon the things of this world, but in the work of Jesus and His promise to come again and to set all things right.

Jesus is our Hope and Expectation. Thanks be to God for the coming of our Savior, both at Bethlehem, and His promise to come in the future for our deliverance from this sinful world!

• Ecclesiastes 10:5-11

Announcements

• Thanksgiving Services
• Pie Palooza
• Church Decorating
• Advent Services
• Chili Supper
• Church Choir
• Men’s Breakfast
• Ladies Bible Study 
• Weekend Worship
• Janitor Position
• Kiwanis Volunteers
• Caroling
• Youth Group Christmas Party
• Christmas Eve Practices
• Christmas Eve Time - 5pm
•  

Prayer List 

• Pastor John Hein
• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Becky
• Kathy Greve
• Paul Bade
• Mike and Misty Schweim
• Assistant Principal Michael Wheaton and 3rd-4th Grade Teacher Lane Fischer
• Mission in Togo

Common Christian Q&A

• What is the meaning of the strange words that are in the headings of Psalm 119?

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 407 “Farewell I Gladly Bid Thee”

Sermon Text: Isaiah 11:2 (NKJV)

The Spirit of the LORD shall rest upon Him, The Spirit of wisdom and understanding, The Spirit of counsel and might, The Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD.

Theme: O Come, O Wisdom

In the hymn "Ye Sons of Men, Oh, Hearken" we are reminded of the need for sinners to receive forgiveness through the work of Jesus. Without Jesus there can be no forgiveness, no hope of eternal life. God desires the salvation of every sinner, which is why He planned salvation through the incarnation and death of His own Son. He also sends His Spirit to work in our hearts to prepare us for receiving that gift, through true understanding of our sin, sorrow over it, and faith in Jesus' work for us. Through His Law and Gospel, this important work of preparation is carried out. "God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble" (1 Peter 5:6).

With Valentinus Thilo, we join in praying:

"Prepare my heart, Lord Jesus, Turn not from me aside,  And grant that I receive Thee This blessed Advent-tide. From stall and manger low Come Thou to dwell within me; Loud praises will I sing Thee And forth Thy glory show."

May the LORD prepare each of us through true repentance and faith in Jesus during this Advent season and always, and enable us to thank Him through the loud praises we offer Him in our worship and with our lives!

This hymn of praise highlights the blessings which God has richly bestowed on us. Like the man delivered from evil spirits, we sing of the "great things God hath done for me."

All of creation declares God's praise. From the forest leaves, to the meadow grasses and flowers, as well as the animal creation of sea creatures, birds and land animals, they have been created "to show His praise alone,  With me now make His glory known."

All of this moves the Christian, the one who has come to know God's love which is shown in all these ways, to "tell, while I am living,  Thy goodness forth with every breath And greet each morning with thanksgiving Until my heart is still in death." 

Join us for Thanksgiving worship as we sing our praises to the Triune God for all the great things He has done for us!

May the LORD bless your joyful worship in thankfulness for all He has done for you!

• Psalm 100

Announcements

• Immanuel Service Organization (Wednesday 6-7:00pm)
• Drama Performances - Friday and Saturday
• Church Choir (Wednesday. 5:15pm)
• Thanksgiving Eve (Wednesday 6pm)
• Pie Palooza (Wednesday 7pm)
• Thanksgiving Day (10am)
• NO Men’s Breakfast on Friday
• Ladies Bible Study (Friday 7:00 pm)
• Church Decorating (Saturday 9am)
• Weekend Service (First Sunday in Advent)
  • Advent - The Great “O” Antiphons
  • Bible Class: Moses review and 40 years in the wilderness
  • Sunday School: Joseph in Egypt
• Outreach meeting (Tuesday 7pm)
• Janitor position
• Kiwanis Volunteers
• School report

Prayer List

• Pastor John Hein
• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Kathy Greve’s Sister Becky - Uterine Cancer
• Sharon Roubal
• Judy Mielke
• Elanie Carstensen
• Kathy Greve - Back Pain Issues

Prayer Highlight

• Church Leaders
  • Kevin Schrader (High School Science and Math)
  • Debra Mayhew (1st and 2nd Grade teacher)
• CLC Missions
  • Missionary Ohlmann
  • Nigeria (West Africa)

Hymn of the Day:

• TLH 36 “Now Thank we all our God”

Sermon Text: Luke 13:24-30 (NKJV)

24  Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able.  25  When once the Master of the house has risen up and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and knock at the door, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open for us,’ and He will answer and say to you, ‘I do not know you, where you are from,’  26  then you will begin to say, ‘We ate and drank in Your presence, and You taught in our streets.’  27  But He will say, ‘I tell you I do not know you, where you are from. Depart from Me, all you workers of iniquity.’  28  There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, and yourselves thrust out.  29  They will come from the east and the west, from the north and the south, and sit down in the kingdom of God.  30  And indeed there are last who will be first, and there are first who will be last.

Theme: Come Home Through the Narrow Gate

John writes: “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away” (Revelation 21:1-6).

This hymn has a very interesting history, possibly dating back to St. Augustine and the 4th century, and it still serves to encourage God's people still today. 

Sing it with joy and expectation this weekend, and with confidence that Jesus has opened the narrow door for us by His life and death!

• Ecclesiastes 10:1-4

Announcements

• Youth Group
• Ladies' Auxiliary
• Immanuel Service Organization Meeting
• Church Choir
• Men’s Breakfast
• Ladies Bible Study 
• Drama Performances
• Weekend Worship
• Board of Education
• Thanksgiving
• Pie Palooza
• Kiwanis
• Janitor Position
• Advent Theme

Prayer List 

• Pastor John Hein
• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Becky
• Sharon Roubal
• Judy Mielke
• Elaine Carstensen
• Kathy Greve
• Principal Rick Mariner and Kindergarten Teacher Erika Hart
• Mission in Liberia

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 366 “One Thing’s Needful; Lord, This Treasure”

Sermon Text: Matthew 24:37-44 (NKJV)

"But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. 38 "For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, 39 "and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. 40 "Then two men will be in the field: one will be taken and the other left. 41 "Two women will be grinding at the mill: one will be taken and the other left. 42 "Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming. 43 "But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. 44 "Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”

Theme: Ready or Not, He Comes 1. Life Will Continue as Normal 2. Until the Son of Man Returns

For this reason our God tells us to be ready for that day. James writes: "You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. Do not grumble against one another, brethren, lest you be condemned. Behold, the Judge is standing at the door!" (James 5:8-9)

Knowing that we have an eternal kingdom, we are to live our lives in faith and godliness: "For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works." (Titus 2:11-14)

This hymn is a beautiful poetic description of the glory of heaven, and a reminder of the evil world the LORD desires to deliver us from. It also serves as a reminder to be faithful and sober as we await and prepare for His return.

Verse 4 is a wonderful summary of the hymn in its entirety:

• Strive, man, to win that glory;
• Toil, man, to gain that light;
• Send hope before to grasp it
• Till hope be lost in sight.
• Exult, O dust and ashes,
• The Lord shall be thy part;
• His only, His forever,
• Thou shalt be and thou art. 

Join us as we are reminded of the the Lord's promise to return to deliver us from this evil world through His work on the cross and as we encourage one another to strive, in our Christian lives, to enter His glory! May it be so, by God's grace, for each of us! 

• Ecclesiastes 9:13-18

Announcements

• MN Mission Festival
• Youth Group
• Women's Book Study
• Board of Deacons
• Church Choir
• Church Council
• Men’s Breakfast
• Ladies Bible Study 
• Weekend Worship
• Board of Elders
• Women's Study Guild
• Ladies' Auxiliary

Prayer List 

• Pastor John Hein
• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Becky
• Sharon Roubal
• Judy Mielke
• Kathy Greve
• Church Leaders
• Mission in India

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 294 “O Word of God Incarnate”

Sermon Text: Psalm 3:1-13 (NKJV)

«A Psalm of David when he fled from Absalom his son.»

LORD, how they have increased who trouble me! Many are they who rise up against me. 2 Many are they who say of me, “There is no help for him in God.” Selah 3 But You, O LORD, are a shield for me, My glory and the One who lifts up my head. 4 I cried to the LORD with my voice, And He heard me from His holy hill. 5  I lay down and slept; I awoke, for the LORD sustained me. 6 I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people Who have set themselves against me all around. 7  Arise, O LORD; Save me, O my God! For You  have struck all my enemies on the cheekbone; You have broken the teeth of the ungodly. 8  Salvation belongs to the LORD. Your blessing is upon Your people. 

Theme: He Will Come to Judge 1. A Source of Peace in a World of Trouble 2. A Source of Justice in a World of Unfairness

The English hymnwriter, Edward Mote, puts this to words in this hymn. The chorus is based on Jesus' words in Matthew 7:24-27: “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: 25 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. 26 But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: 27 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.” 

In addition to this verse, Mote also weaves in thoughts from other Bible verses that point to Jesus as our Confidence on the Last Day. These verses include: 

• Romans 3:23-26 - For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24  being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25  whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed, 26  to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.
• Hebrews 6:19-20 - This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the Presence behind the veil, 20 where the forerunner has entered for us, even Jesus,
• 1 Corinthians 15:51-52 - Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed— in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
• Philippians 3:8-9 - Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith;

What a comfort it is to know that the life and death of Jesus is our reason we can have confidence on the last day! May the LORD bless your worship this weekend!

• Ecclesiastes 9:11-12

Announcements

• Red Cross Blood Drive
• Outreach Committee
• Board of Elders
• Church Choir
• Men’s Breakfast
• Ladies Bible Study 
• Weekend Worship
• MN Mission Festival

Prayer List 

• Pastor John Hein
• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Sharon Roubal
• Judy Mielke
• Time and Talents
• Mission in Tanzania

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 602 “It Is Not Death to Die”

Sermon Text: Hebrews 12:1-3 (NKJV)

Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls. 

Theme: The Saints Look to Jesus

Hymn 463 is a beautiful description of the Holy Christian Church through both the Church Triumphant and the Church Militant. The believers (saints) who have gone before us, leave an example for us in who are fighting the battle today. Their faith is an encouragement to us in both their victories and in their suffering.

The Apostle Paul wrote in 1 Timothy 6:12: "Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses."

The hymnwriter described the unity of all believers in Christ by faith when he writes: 

O blest communion, fellowship divine, We feebly struggle, they in glory shine; Yet all are one in Thee, for all are Thine. Alleluia!

David states in Psalm 22:4-5: "Our fathers trusted in You; They trusted, and You delivered them. They cried to You, and were delivered; They trusted in You, and were not ashamed." This is our confidence as well. We too can trust in the LORD, and be certain of the victory that Jesus has won for us. That is why Paul could encourage young Timothy: "You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ" (2 Timothy 2:3).

We are engaged in a great battle as Christians. At times the fight is fierce and at times it feels like it will never end. "But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Corinthians 15:57).

Worship with us this weekend as the LORD assures us of the victory HE has won for His saints through Jesus, and as we are encouraged for remaining faithful, true and bold in the faith of faith! 

• Ecclesiastes 9:7-10

Announcements

• High School Volleyball
• Women's Retreat
• Ladies' Auxiliary
• Church Choir 
• Men’s Breakfast
• Red Cross Blood Drive
• Ladies Bible Study 
• Weekend Worship
• Sophomore Search
• MN Mission Festival

Prayer List 

• Pastor John Hein
• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Susan Mutzke
• Margaret Schreyer
• Tasca Rykhus
• Linda Bode
• Women of our Church
• Mission in Philippines 

Common Christian Q&A

• What is the difference between a witness and a sponsor in our practice of Baptism? 

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 380 “Thy Works, Not Mine, O Christ”

Sermon Text: Habakkuk 2:1-4 (NKJV)

I will stand my watch And set myself on the rampart, And watch to see what He will say to me, And what I will answer when I am corrected. 2 Then the LORD answered me and said: "Write the vision And make it plain on tablets, That he may run who reads it. 3 For the vision is yet for an appointed time; But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, It will not tarry. 4 "Behold the proud, His soul is not upright in him; But the just shall live by his faith.

Theme: Watching, Writing, and Waiting by Faith

1. Watch for the LORD's Word

2. Write His Vision Plain

3. Wait for His Promises

The hymn that we are studying this week is Luther's famous "A Mighty Fortress" which has as many as 80 different English translations, and has encouraged Christians for over 500 years. The hymn was written in the late 1520’s during a very dark time in Germany. War, plague, sickness, and religious oppression surrounded the LORD’s church there. In this turmoil, Luther turned to the LORD and the promises found in His word. He took comfort in the words of the Psalmist: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble… The nations rage, the kingdoms totter; he utters his voice, the earth melts. The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress” (Psalm 46:1,6-7). Luther reminds God’s people then and now of the LORD’s power which is greater than that of every enemy we might face. The old evil foe? Devils eager to devour us? “We tremble not, we fear no ill.” “He can harm us none. He’s judged; the deed is done.” Jesus -- the One whom God Himself elected, the Sabaoth Lord, the Valiant One -- is on our side, and fights for us! “The Kingdom ours remaineth.”

Thanks be to God that we can have confidence in His work for us In Jesus, that our sins are forgiven, and that He is greater than every enemy we will face, including the devil himself! 

This weekend as we thank God for His promise that His Church and His Word will not fail, and as we rejoice in those who fought for that truth in the past and as He gives us strength to fight that fight still today. Join us in our worship as we unite our voices to sing our confidence in God based on Psalm 46! 

• Ecclesiastes 9:1-6

Announcements

• CLC Teachers' Conference
• Voters' Meeting
  • Elections
  • Land Purchase
  • Cemetery
  • Immanuel Service Organization
• Church Choir 
• Men’s Breakfast
• Ladies Bible Study 
• Women's Retreat
• Weekend Worship
• Board of Deacons
• Board of Education
• Red Cross Blood Drive
• MN Mission Festival

Prayer List 

• Pastor John Hein
• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Kenny
• Mary Mackey
• Susan Mutzke
• Betty Wolle
• David Born
• CLC Teachers' Conference
• Mission in India

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 476 “Ten Thousand Times Ten Thousand”

Sermon Text: Luke 11:1-13 (NKJV)

Now it came to pass, as He was praying in a certain place, when He ceased, that one of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.” 2 So He said to them, “When you pray, say: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. 3 Give us day by day our daily bread. 4 And forgive us our sins, For we also forgive everyone who is indebted to us. And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one.” 5 And He said to them, “Which of you shall have a friend, and go to him at midnight and say to him, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves; 6 for a friend of mine has come to me on his journey, and I have nothing to set before him’; 7 and he will answer from within and say, ‘Do not trouble me; the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give to you’? 8 I say to you, though he will not rise and give to him because he is his friend, yet because of his persistence he will rise and give him as many as he needs. 9 So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. 10 For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. 11 If a son asks for bread from any father among you, will he give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent instead of a fish? 12 Or if he asks for an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? 13 If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!”

Theme: Absolute Confidence in God

The hymn is based primarily on the Aaronic and Pauline blessings of the Old and New Testament. These blessings highlight the nature of what the Christian Church has called the "Triune" God. Both of these blessings bring out the three-fold nature of the true God. The Aaronic blessing (the blessing given to Aaron in the Old Testament) states: "The LORD bless you and keep you; The LORD make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you; The LORD lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace." (Numbers 6:24-26). The Pauline blessing (the blessing used by the Apostle Paul) says: "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen" (2 Corinthians 13:14). The stanzas of Behm's hymn develop and utilize these two Bible verses and what they tell us about God. He is three in person, but one in essence. The Triune God is Father and Maker, Son and Redeemer, and Holy Spirit and Comforter. This God has created and preserves us, protects us, instructs and cheers us, and illuminates and keeps us in the faith. 

The hymn, which was written just under a hundred years after the start of the Reformation, also draws from and beautifully incorporates Luther's Morning Prayer in stanza 2. Luther wrote:

In the name of God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen. I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept all harm and danger away from me last night; and I pray that You would also protect me today from sin and every evil, that my life and all my behavior may please You. Into Your hands I entrust my body and soul and everything else. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the devil may have no power over me. Amen.

There is inestimable value in knowing the true God and having absolute confidence in His power, love and mercy. There is joy in our ability to come to the true God in prayer, knowing that He can and will answer according to our need and His will for us. We worship and serve a wonderful God!

Join us this weekend to be assured of that confidence and to blend our voices together to sing praise to Father, Son and Holy Spirit for all that our God does, has done and will do for you! 

• Ecclesiastes 8:14-17

Announcements

• Wedding
• Trunk or Treat
• CLC Teachers' Conference
• Church Choir 
• No Men’s Breakfast
• Ladies Bible Study 
• Weekend Worship
• Voters' Meeting
• Women's Retreat
• Red Cross Blood Drive
• MN Mission Festival

Prayer List 

• Pastor John Hein
• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Kenny
• Mary Mackey
• Sue Heise
• Susan Mutzke
• Betty Wolle
• Daryl Pischner
• David Born
• Ben and Julia Radermacher
• CLC Teachers' Conference
• Mission in Nigeria

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 540 “With the Lord Begin Thy Task”

Sermon Text: Titus 3:1-7 (NKJV)

Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, 2 to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men. 3 For we ourselves were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful and hating one another. 4 But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, 5 not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, 6 whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 that having been justified by His grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

Theme: Living with Liars, Evil Beasts, and Lazy Gluttons

1. Both Without and Within

2. Washed Free from Sin

In Baptism, the blessings of Christ's work for sinners becomes mine (and yours) personally! Jesus died for the world of sinners, but the benefits of His work (forgiveness of sins, life and salvation) only become ours through the working of the Holy Spirit who creates faith in the hearts of sinners. In Baptism, God puts His name on us, and receives us, by adoption, into His family. This is what Baptism is all about. Paul writes in Ephesians 5:25-27: "...Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish." Thanks be to God!

All that God has done for us in Christ and through Baptism gives us motivation to sing praises to God, faithfully, thankfully, and joyfully!

Lift your voices this weekend and join together with your fellow believers to sing praise to God for His work of salvation in the cross and received through Baptism! May the LORD bless your worship!

• Ecclesiastes 8:10-13

Announcements

• MN Pastoral Conference
• Youth Group
• Church Council
• Church Choir 
• Men’s Breakfast
• Ladies Bible Study 
• Bible Class and Sunday School
• Trunk or Treat
• CLC Teachers' Conference
• Voters' Meeting
• Women's Retreat
• Red Cross Blood Drive

Prayer List 

• Pastor John Hein
• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Pat Howley
• Jamie VanGeest
• Mary Mackey
• Dan Fleischer
• Sue Heise
• Matt and Trina Mincey
• Eunice Mutzke
• Betty Wolle
• Daryl Pischner
• Val Landon
• MN Pastoral Conference
• CLC Teachers' Conference
• Missions in Congo

Hymn of the Day

• CW21 556 “All Mankind Fell in Adam’s Fall”

Sermon Text: Psalm 115:1-8 (NKJV)

Not unto us, O LORD, not unto us, But to Your name give glory, Because of Your mercy, Because of Your truth. 2 Why should the Gentiles say, “So where is their God?” 3 But our God is in heaven; He does whatever He pleases. 4 Their idols are silver and gold, The work of men’s hands. 5 They have mouths, but they do not speak; Eyes they have, but they do not see; 6 They have ears, but they do not hear; Noses they have, but they do not smell; 7  They have hands, but they do not handle; Feet they have, but they do not walk; Nor do they mutter through their throat. 8 Those who make them are like them; So is everyone who trusts in them.

Theme: The LORD alone is God

The hymn is based on the words of the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 10:16 which teaches us the "Real Presence" of the Savior's body and blood in the Lord's Supper: "The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?" Baue also uses Psalm 34:8 to conclude each verse, reminding us that we taste with our mouths the very body and blood of Jesus: "Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good; Blessed is the man who trusts in Him!"

May the LORD bless your worship this weekend, as well as your worthy reception of the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper. Let Him assure you that He is surely present in the bread and wine, and that it is given and shed for YOU!

• Ecclesiastes 8:1-9

Announcements

• CLC Board Meetings
• Preparing Phoebe's
• Man Up Retreat
• Freshman Carnival
• Church Choir 
• Men’s Breakfast
• Women’s Bible Study 
• Bible Class and Sunday School
• MN Pastoral Conference
• Women's Retreat

Prayer List 

• Pastor John Hein
• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Pat Howley
• Mary Mackey
• Dan Fleischer
• Kenny
• Sue Heise
• Matt and Trina Mincey
• Eunice Mutzke
• Joel and Anika Enter
• MN Pastoral Conference
• CLC Teachers' Conference
• Mission in Bangladesh

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 584 “Swell the Anthem, Raise the Song”

Sermon Text: Mark 9:14-27 (NKJV)

And when He came to the disciples, He saw a great multitude around them, and scribes disputing with them. 15 Immediately, when they saw Him, all the people were greatly amazed, and running to Him, greeted Him. 16 And He asked the scribes, "What are you discussing with them?" 17 Then one of the crowd answered and said, "Teacher, I brought You my son, who has a mute spirit. 18 "And wherever it seizes him, it throws him down; he foams at the mouth, gnashes his teeth, and becomes rigid. So I spoke to Your disciples, that they should cast it out, but they could not." 19 He answered him and said, "O faithless generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I bear with you? Bring him to Me." 20 Then they brought him to Him. And when he saw Him, immediately the spirit convulsed him, and he fell on the ground and wallowed, foaming at the mouth. 21 So He asked his father, "How long has this been happening to him?" And he said, "From childhood. 22 "And often he has thrown him both into the fire and into the water to destroy him. But if You can do anything, have compassion on us and help us." 23 Jesus said to him, "If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes." 24 Immediately the father of the child cried out and said with tears, "Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!" 25 When Jesus saw that the people came running together, He rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, "Deaf and dumb spirit, I command you, come out of him and enter him no more!" 26 Then the spirit cried out, convulsed him greatly, and came out of him. And he became as one dead, so that many said, "He is dead." 27 But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up, and he arose.

Theme: The Paradox of Christian Life

1. Sin in the Midst of Grace

2. Doubts in the Midst of Faith

This weekend we are studying a hymn which prays for the kind of faith that will help us in the troubles of life. William Bathurst wrote the familiar hymn "Oh, for a faith that will not shrink" which is hymn 396 in The Lutheran Hymnal. Bathurst was a priest in the Church on England for most of his life and this is probably his best known hymn.

The first 5 stanza develop a prayer for a faith that stands firm against the enemies of our God, and in the pain, storms, and afflictions of life in a sinful world. As we sing these stanzas many Biblical examples will come to mind. David as he faced the mighty Goliath. The widow who was about to prepare her last meal, but whose jar of oil did not run out. The disciples in the storm on the Sea of Galilee. Joseph facing the temptation of Potiphar's wife. Daniel as he was thrown into the Lion's Den. The Children of Israel in the wilderness. The Apostle Paul as he faced death. 

The Apostle John writes:  "And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith" (1 John 5:4-5). Jesus has already won the victory over our greatest enemies. He is greater than any storm, trial or persecution we will face. We are "More than conquerors in Christ."

May the LORD bless your worship this weekend, as we pray for a faith that trusts in the LORD, whatever difficulty we face!

• Ecclesiastes 7:26-29

Announcements

• Mission Presentation
• ERC Presentation
• Outdoor Adventure Day
• See You at the Pole
• Ladies' Auxiliary
• Preparing Phoebe's
• Board of Deacons
• Church Choir 
• Men’s Breakfast Friday 
• Women’s Bible Study 
• Bible Class and Sunday School

Prayer List 

• Pastor John Hein
• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Mary Mackey
• Sue Heise
• Manup Weekend
• Outreach
• Missionary Ohlmann and Raju
• CLC Boards and Coordinating Council

Hymn of the Day

• OSoC 441 “In Adam We Have All Been One"

Sermon Text: Luke 6:6-11 (NKJV)

Now it happened on another Sabbath, also, that He entered the synagogue and taught. And a man was there whose right hand was withered. 7 So the scribes and Pharisees watched Him closely, whether He would heal on the Sabbath, that they might find an accusation against Him. 8 But He knew their thoughts, and said to the man who had the withered hand, "Arise and stand here." And he arose and stood. 9 Then Jesus said to them, "I will ask you one thing: Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do evil, to save life or to destroy?" 10 And when He had looked around at them all, He said to the man, "Stretch out your hand." And he did so, and his hand was restored as whole as the other. 11 But they were filled with rage, and discussed with one another what they might do to Jesus.

Theme: A Lesson about Hands, Words, and Hearts

This hymn was originally written with 16 stanzas of 8 lines each. You will find it dramatically reduced in the version we have, but this is a very popular hymn and because there were so many original verses, you will find it in many different forms in different hymns and traditions. 

It is based on Ephesians 6:10-18 where Paul writes: "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints."

This hymn reminds us that whether we realize it or want to acknowledge it or now, every Christian is engaged in a battle against forces that are greater than we are. But the LORD desires our deliverance and has provided everything necessary for us to win in the end. So, like David who fought Goliath, or Gideon or the Apostle Paul, we stand firm in this battle, upon God's Word, with the confidence of His strength, and know that we will win the battle and the war has already been won by Jesus!

So fight on, fellow Christian! Go with the LORD's strength! "Wrestle and fight and pray" knowing that we will "overcome through Christ alone" and win at last!

May the LORD bless your worship this weekend, and your ongoing fight against sin and temptation with the LORD on your side!

• Ecclesiastes 7:23-25

Announcements

• Mission Presentation
• Church Choir 
• Men’s Breakfast Friday 
• Women’s Bible Study 
• Bible Class and Sunday School
• Board of Elders and Deacons
• Board of Education
• See You at the Pole
• Ladies' Auxiliary
• Preparing Phoebe's

Prayer List 

• Pastor John Hein
• Pastor Tim Wheaton
• Jim Lien
• Distant Members
• Missionary Ohlmann and Raju

Hymn of the Day

• TLH 284 “Father of Mercies, in Thy Word"

Sermon Text: Proverbs 2:1-8 (NKJV) 1 My son, if you receive my words, And treasure my commands within you, 2 So that you incline your ear to wisdom, And apply your heart to understanding; 3 Yes, if you cry out for discernment, And lift up your voice for understanding, 4 If you seek her as silver, And search for her as for hidden treasures; 5 Then you will understand the fear of the LORD, And find the knowledge of God. 6 For the LORD gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding; 7 He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk uprightly; 8 He guards the paths of justice, And preserves the way of His saints.

Theme: The LORD invites us to SEEK and FIND Him in His Word!

1. God’s Word Offers True Wisdom and Understanding

2. The LORD’s Gifts are Treasures which are Unmatched