July 2018 – Page 3 – St. John's Evangelical

Eager Expectation – July 15, 2018

July 15, 2018 Kerry

The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed.
Romans 8:19

Eager Expectation

Daily Devotion – July 15, 2018

Devotion based on Romans 8:19

See series: Devotions

In the world of professional horse racing, there is a singular moment that all the jockeys in the sport know very well. It is the moment just before the starting gates open and the race begins. In that brief length of time, seconds can seem like centuries. In that brief length of time, the purebred horses in those starting gates are just waiting to explode with speed, their every muscle ready to uncoil their power and to rocket down the track. They are focused on one thing. They are looking for the starting gates to open.

Keep that picture in mind as you consider what God’s Word has to say about the creation you see around you. Many of you this summer are doing some kind of traveling. Perhaps you’re traveling through scenery that’s entirely new to you. Or perhaps you’re traveling through scenery that’s very familiar. Either way, God wants you to enjoy that scenery. He wants you to soak in the beauty that has come from his hand. He wants you to savor that scenery to his glory.

And he wants you to do something else. Whether you are standing before the vastness of the Grand Canyon, the majesty of the Rocky Mountains, seeing the power of the Atlantic Ocean, the lush green of farmland, or the stars in the night sky—wherever you are, God wants you to picture his creation waiting for something. Because it is. Through the apostle Paul, the Lord tells us that his creation is waiting in eager expectation for the Lord Jesus to return and to take his faithful people home. Just as a racehorse looks for the starting gate to open, so also God’s creation is waiting for our Savior and King to return.

So, enjoy your travels through God’s creation this summer. Enjoy the scenery. Enjoy its beauty. But as you do, remember to see it as God wants you to see it. Remember that it’s all waiting in eager expectation for Jesus to return. See it in light of the wonderful reality of your Savior from sin.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus Christ, you came to this earth. You died for my sin. You rose from death. You ascended into heaven. And one day you will return to take me home. In my travels this summer, keep this truth vivid in my eyes. Amen.

This devotion was selected from the Daily Devotion archive.

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

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

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

Following Jesus- July 14, 2018

July 14, 2018 Kerry

As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.
Isaiah 55:10-11

Following Jesus

Daily Devotion – July 14, 2018

Devotion based on Isaiah 55:10-11

See series: Devotions

It’s called the hydrological cycle—evaporation and precipitation. But you don’t have to know those big words or be a scientist to figure it out. The water on planet earth in its three forms, ice, liquid water, and steam are in a cycle. The water from the mountain stream eventually ends up in the ocean, then it evaporates into the clouds, which in turn causes rain to fall in the mountains, feeding the mountain streams.

But even that is more complex than you really need. Simply, God sends water and it does its job. Whether it’s to make plants grow or for people to drink or to provide a habitat for fish to survive, the water that God sends, he sends for a reason and it serves that purpose well.

So it is with the Word of God. When he sends it, it accomplishes something. It doesn’t come back to God without doing something. Will that something always be conversion to faith in Christ? No, sadly not always. Sometimes that Word of God causes people to realize that following Jesus is an all or nothing proposition. “Jesus died on the cross to pay for my sins!” I can’t sort-of believe that, and when the Word is preached it leads some to faith in Jesus or results in people hardening their hearts in unbelief.

So we should proclaim that Word. Loudly and confidently we should announce the gospel of Christ. We shouldn’t be quiet about it, for it’s the living and active and powerful Word of God! It’s not a waste of time to proclaim Jesus. The proclamation of the Bible’s message won’t return to God empty but will accomplish his purpose.

The Word won’t return to God empty and neither does it leave us empty. We are filled with the joy and peace and hope that only forgiveness can bring. Knowing that we are saved, and heaven is our home, we can tell others that same message that they too might be saved and that their empty hearts might be filled with joy and peace and hope, just like ours.

Prayer:
Lord God, thank you for filling me with your love and sending your gospel into my heart. Help me to send your Word out in my life, that more people might be won for you and your glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This devotion was selected from the Daily Devotion archive.

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

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

BULLETIN- THE EIGHTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST JULY 15, 2018

July 13, 2018 Kerry

EMMANUEL & ST. JOHN’S

Evangelical Lutheran Churches

Mecan & Montello, WI

Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod

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THE EIGHTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

JULY 15, 2018

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

GOD’S WORD FOR TODAY Jesus Gives the Bread of Life: Through Faithful Preachers & Teachers – It’s not easy giving a faithful proclamation of God’s Word. Pastors and teachers serve as God’s representative to a sinful world, and the world is often not willing to accept God’s message of truth. The Old Testament prophet Amos found that out; St. Paul found that out; Jesus’ newly-called apostles would find that out. Yet faithful pastors and teachers are a most necessary and divinely-instituted way in which the gospel of Jesus is proclaimed to all nations. Thank God for faithful preachers and teachers of the gospel! By them Jesus gives us the Bread of Life.

PERSONAL PRAYER BEFORE WORSHIP Lord God, you know that we are surrounded by many dangers and that we often stumble and fall. Strengthen us in body and mind, and bring us safely through all temptations. Teach us today how Jesus is our Prophet. Amen.

ORDER OF SERVICE–LITURGY

“Gathering Rite on the Word of God” (see below)

PASTOR’S GREETING

(Please stand)

M: In the name of the Father and of the Son (+) and of the Holy Spirit.

C: (spoken) Amen.

OPENING HYMN 221 “Blessed Jesus, at Your Word” (printed below, all sing)

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

Let our hearts and souls be stirred

Now to seek and love and fear you,

By your teachings, sweet and holy,

Drawn from earth to love you solely.

M: Oh, how I love your law!

C: I meditate on it all day long.

M: Your commands make me wiser than my enemies,

C: for they are ever with me.

M: I have more insight than all my teachers,

C: for I meditate on your statutes.

M: How sweet are your words to my taste,

C: sweeter than honey to my mouth!

2 All our knowledge, sense, and sight

Lie in deepest darkness shrouded

Till your Spirit breaks our night

With the beams of truth unclouded.

You alone to God can win us;

You must work all good within us.

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

C: so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

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

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

3 Gracious Savior, good and kind,

Light from Light, from God proceeding,

Open now our heart and mind;

Help us by your Spirit’s pleading.

Hear the cry your people raises;

Hear and bless our prayers and praises.

M: God gave his Word so “that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name”. The Scriptures testify about Jesus, who lived a perfect life for you, died on the cross to pay for all your sins, and rose again to assure you of your salvation. Therefore, as a called servant of Christ and by his authority, I forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father and of the Son (+) and of the Holy Spirit.

C: (spoken) Amen.

4 Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,

Praise to you and adoration!

Grant that we your Word may trust,

Confident of our salvation,

While we here below must wander,

Till we sing your praises yonder.

PRAYER OF THE DAY (read by pastor)

M: Let us pray.

C: (spoken) Amen.

(Please be seated)

THE DAY’S BIBLE READING THEME

God Established Our Ministry: Teacher Installation

OLD TESTAMENT LESSON Amos 7:10-15

The Lord called Amos to proclaim his message even though some would not listen

Then Amaziah the priest of Bethel sent a message to Jeroboam king of Israel: “Amos is raising a conspiracy against you in the very heart of Israel. The land cannot bear all his words. ¹¹For this is what Amos is saying:

“‘Jeroboam will die by the sword, and Israel will surely go into exile, away from their native land.’”

Then Amaziah said to Amos, “Get out, you seer! Go back to the land of Judah. Earn your bread there and do your prophesying there. Don’t prophesy anymore at Bethel, because this is the king’s sanctuary and the temple of the kingdom.”

Amos answered Amaziah, “I was neither a prophet nor the son of a prophet, but I was a shepherd, and I also took care of sycamore-fig trees. But the Lord took me from tending the flock and said to me, ‘Go, prophesy to my people Israel.’

PSALM 78 (hymnal page 95 lectern side sings the first line, pulpit side sings the second line, all sing refrains and Gloria)

EPISTLE LESSON Ephesians 1:3-14 (today’s sermon text)

God chose us in Christ before the creation of the world

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us. With all wisdom and understanding, he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment—to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ.

In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, in order that we, who were the first to put our hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory. And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.

VERSE OF THE DAY Alleluia! The Spirit of the Lord is on me; He has anointed me to preach good news. Alleluia! (Luke 4:18a)

LITURGY (hymnal page 40, all sing)

“Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! These words are written that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!”

(Please stand)

GOSPEL Mark 6:7-13

Jesus sends out the twelve

Calling the Twelve to him, he began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over impure spirits.

These were his instructions: “Take nothing for the journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in your belts. Wear sandals but not an extra shirt. Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you leave that town. And if any place will not welcome you or listen to you, leave that place and shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.”

They went out and preached that people should repent. They drove out many demons and anointed many sick people with oil and healed them.

LITURGY (hymnal page 40b, all sing)

“Praise be to you, O Christ”

(Please be seated)

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$Z:\CHURCH STUFF\CW Supplement Electronic Pew Edition CD ROM\TIFF files\Hymns\CWS 735.tif$ SERMON HYMN 735 “Speak, O Lord” (see page 7-8 of bulletin)

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SERMON Ephesians 1:3-14 “Elected, Not Selected!”

God chose us by grace
God accepted us in Christ
God called us by the gospel

(Please stand after the sermon)

THE APOSTLES’ CREED (hymnal page 41, all read)

(Please be seated)

RITE OF TEACHER INSTALLATION

OFFERING, WORSHIPER GREETINGS, & FRIENDSHIP REGISTERS

CHOIR SINGS “Be Strong in the Lord” (at St. John’s, during offering)

OFFERING PRAYER

PRAYER FOR OUR LUTHERAN PRE-SCHOOL AND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEACHERS

INTERCESSORY PRAYERS (read by pastor)

– For those hospitalized, ill, shut-in and facing trials: George Alexander, Gale “Blackie” Boyd, Marilyn Bredeson (Karin’s Stellick’s mother), David Broderick, Alexandria Buehrens (Bob & Carolyn’s great granddaughter), Bob & Carolyn Buehrens, George Chapman, Gene & Sharon Crook, Harley & Liola Crown, Agnes Dassow, Caleb & Emery Degenstein (Mark Emond’s friends), Elaine Emond (Mark’s mother), Marjorie Fabian, Mike Farrell, Donna Gatzke, Kellen Grucza (Judy Fandrey’s daughter), RaeLynn Hodgkins (Beth Johnson’s daughter), Brian & Bonnie Harmon (Linda Lou Wacholtz’ sister & brother-in-law), Brody Henke, Ardis Henning, Geri Kerl (Sue Brown’s mother), Bob Klapper (Sandy’s husband), Doris Klawitter, Aspen Raelynn Lefeber (Barb Hoffman’s greatgrandaughter), Anna Madigan, Kerry & Lily Mann, Ruthie Marcelain (Dawn’s granddaughter), Steve Parrish, Wayne Riemer, Wilma Rudolph, Frankie Russell, Bob Schrank, Bill Schroeder (Ashley’s father-in-law), Jennifer Strauss, Jane Torres (Stacie Starke’s mother), Donny Weber (Betty’s son), Paul Weldon, Raymond Zacharias (Marilyn Riemer’s brother) – (added this week: )

For St. John’s School/Pre-school teachers Sara Borck, Cassandra Doering, & Rachel Naumann who will be installed in today’s (7/15) service at St. John’s

– For WELS worker training schools

LORD’S PRAYER (hymnal page 43a)

NOTE: AT EMMANUEL…

HYMN 542:1-2 “Dear Lord, to Your True Servants Give” (printed in hymnal, all sing)

(Please stand)

CLOSING PRAYER, & BLESSING (hymnal pages 43b-44)

(Please be seated)

CLOSING HYMN 542:3“Dear Lord, to Your True Servants Give” (printed in hymnal, all sing)

NOTE: AT ST. JOHN’S…

HYMN 542 “Dear Lord, to Your True Servants Give” (printed in hymnal, all sing)

(Please stand)

CLOSING PRAYER, & BLESSING (hymnal pages 43b-44)

(Please be seated)

CHOIR SINGS “Doxology” (in place of closing hymn)

ANNOUNCEMENTS

THEME FOR NEXT SUNDAY, JULY 22, 2018

The Ninth Sunday after Pentecost:

The Savior Is our Compassionate Shepherd

Note: Please give your completed friendship register page to an usher or pastor as you leave today’s service.

ACTIVITIES FOR THE WEEK JULY 15-JULY 21
Sun.	8:00 A.M.		Emmanuel Worship
	10:00 A.M.		St. John’s Worship
	11:15 A.M.		Light lunch at St. John’s lower level in celebration of Teacher Installation
Mon.	7:00 P.M.		St. John’s Stewardship/Evangelism meeting
Tues.	6:00 P.M.		St. John’s School Board meeting
Wed.	6:00 P.M.		Joint St. John’s/Emmanuel Council meeting
	6:30 P.M.		St. John’s Worship
	7:00 P.M.		St. John’s Council meeting
Thurs.
Fri.
Sat.
SCHEDULE FOR NEXT SUNDAY, JULY 22, 2018 The Ninth Sunday after Pentecost: The Savior Is our Compassionate Shepherd
8:00 A.M.		Emmanuel Worship
10:00 A.M.		St. John’s Worship with communion

TEACHER INSTALLATION Today 7/15 at St. John’s, following the installation of our new 5-8th grade teacher, Rachel Naumann, all are invited to the lower level of church for fellowship & a light lunch. Thank you members for bringing a trays of “finger food” items, ie. fruit & veggies, sandwiches & sweets. Thank Ladies Aid for providing drinks and table settings. Come and meet your new teachers.

CHRISTIAN ONE-LINERS (from a WELS pastor): “Prayer: Don’t give God instructions, just report for duty!”

MEN’S BIBLE CLASS THIS SUMMER If you had one, and only one, last chance to tell the people you love about life or what’s important in life, about faith and the life of faith, what would you want to tell them? That is the idea for the next men’s Bible Class. We will read, study, and hopefully learn from three men of God and some of their Holy Spirit inspired “last chance” words – David, Joshua, and the Apostle Paul. This is a short 3-lesson study. Tuesday nights, 6:30pm, on August 7, 14, and 21.We had a pretty good turn-out in the spring, so it would be great to keep it up. Perhaps not everyone can make all of them, but think about it and see if you can make this one hour on a week night a priority for you.

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL (VBS) 2018 St. John’s Vaction Bible School will be August 6-10 from 9:00am-3:00pm and will be available for ages 3yrs-6^th grade. Camp Phillip will be leading it for us this year! There will be sign-up sheets in the office, St. John’s info room and Emmanuel parish hall. OR you can call/email the office during summer hours to sign your child up. The deadline for sign-up is July 30^th.

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!

We will need as many volunteers (adults and older kids) as we can get to help run our VBS this year. If you want to help, call the office and let Ciara know ASAP!

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL DONATIONS NEEDED! St. John’s needs a list of supplies to run VBS efficiently. If you are willing to donate, you may swing by the office during summer hours or drop boxes will be located in Emmanuel parish hall and St. John’s link way.

Here is a list of things needed: glue, glue sticks, onion powder, cardstock paper, ground mustard, yellow mustard, black and red permanent markers, plastic mixing spoons, apple corer, small mixing bowls, baking rack, garlic powder, microwave-safe bowls, box of food coloring, silver glitter, toothpicks, measuring cups, measuring spoons, baby oil, white sand, red satin ribbon, cross penny, satin nylon cord, heavy duty paper plates, black felt, 18 oz. plastic bottles (BAI), black construction paper, 32 quarters, masing tape, index cards, blindfolds, 40 ping pong balls, long rope, water guns.

ST. JOHN’S A/V ROOM–HELP WANTED Our current audio/visual crew (Tracy Hoffman & Aaron Wachholz) welcomes more members to learn what they do to create and show PowerPoint services on the big screen, record services to create DVD’s and upload to our church website, operate the sound system, etc. “Many hands make light work.”

See the source image ALTAR FLOWERS If you would like to have flowers put on the altar for a special occasion or just to add beauty to St. John’s, please contact our Altar Ladies, Carolyn Rosenthal 589-5036 or Elaine Kelm 920-344-0025, and they can have it arranged. Thank you.

See the source image

SCHOOL UPDATE REPORT

God is good and we are blessed! After much deliberation and discussion between the school board, council, pastor, synod leadership and many others, we are able to report that our school status is on track and in a good place. The teaching staff is now set and it is a good one. We are pleased.

Little Lambs – Sara Borck, as planned an announced earlier will take over this program.

K-1 – Cassie Doering, a 5^th-Year Senior at Martin Luther College has agreed to serve as a 1-year emergency teacher. She’s from Lake Mills.

2-4 – Karin Stellick will continue her work in this classroom

5-8 – Rachel Naumann, our newest teacher, will bring her 2 years of experience at Luther Prep School into our 5-8 classroom.

This a good mix of experience and youth that will give us a fine faculty for the upcoming school year. We are blessed and excited by that. We will also have qualified and experienced classroom aides and other support people.

The duties of principal will be handled for the time being by a “committee” approach. Pastor Dolan has agreed to serve as a spiritual advisor to the faculty and staff and will be a liaison to the school board and church council. Other duties will be handled by the school board, and other church leaders, staff, and members as needs arise. Specific duties and details are still being researched and worked out, and we are making good progress. We are not where we hoped to be at this point as far as full-time principal/teacher is concerned, but the situation has worked out well. We are in good hands as we make further preparations for the new school year. Watch for more updates in the weeks ahead. Continue to pray for and support our school ministry, staff, students and parents as together we “feed the lambs” of Jesus.

Attendance

Emmanuel

St. John’s

7-8 7-11

125 5

St. John’s Altar Committee:

July 2018

Elain Kelm

Carolyn Rosenthal

*St. John’s Greeter Schedule*
July 15	Susan Brown & Kathy North
July 22	Sara Borck & Jennie Utke
July 29	Jon & Jean Sheller

SUMMER OFFICE HOURS

Monday – 8:00am-4:00pm

Tuesday – 8:00am-4:00pm

Wednesday – 8:00am-4:00pm

Thursday – 8:00am-2:00pm

Usher Schedule

July 15

Kenon Smith; Chief, Ben Emond, Tyler Emond, James Henke, Paul Van Treeck

Lucas Stelter, Warren Buchholz, Don Stelter

July 22

(with comm)

Cal Kapp; Chief, Martin Schmanke, Lee Ollendorf, Aaron Kendall, Chuck Boetcher

Darrell Buchholz, Glenn Buchholz, Joe Heller

July 29

James Wachholz; Chief, Jim Eisermann, Corey Kaul, Jerre Duerr, Robin Smith

DuWayene Sommerfeld, Bob Ferber, Brian Ninneman

Welcome To Our Visitors!

Please Sign Our Guest Register

Visit our website & Facebook link at: www.stjohnsmontello.org

https://www.facebook.com/St-Johns-Evangelical-Lutheran-Church-107160252675/

Pastor Peter Zietlow Office (608) 297-2321

Cell & Text (608) 408-7830,

E-mail: zietlowpl6@hotmail.com

5^th-8^th Grade Teacher: Rachel Naumann

2^nd-4^th GradeTeacher: Karin Stellick (920) 342-3689

Little Lambs Teacher: Sara Borck (858) 731-7919

Church/School Secretary: Ciara Neuhauser

(608) 297-2866

Altar Ladies: Elaine Kelm (920) 344-0025

Carolyn Rosenthal 589-5036

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

OR scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org

Will I ever relapse? – July 13, 2018

July 13, 2018 Kerry

Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Psalm 51:10

Will I ever relapse?

Daily Devotion – July 13, 2018

Devotion based on Psalm 51:10

See series: Devotions

When someone leaves inpatient alcohol treatment, they wonder: “Will I relapse?

But it’s not only addicts who live with this fear. When we look back at words and deeds that haunt us, we can stress over falling back into those sins of the past.

That was the case for King David. At one time he was a model believer. He had a courageous faith against Goliath. He had a gentle spirit towards his persecutor Saul. He was even called, “a man after God’s own heart.” Yet, in a moment of selfishness, he stole the wife of Uriah, one of his bravest soldiers. Then before his evil could go public, he orchestrated a vile cover up. King David had innocent Uriah killed.

Confronted with his grievous sins, David called out to God in a sincere prayer of repentance and faith: “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” David asked God to cleanse him from the inside out, to help him live faithfully and not relapse into the sins of his past.

We ask God to do the same in our lives. We call upon our God who died for people like David, for people like us, and we ask him to change us from the inside out. We ask that he take away the past guilt that haunts us, and lead us to live faithfully in honor to him.

God answered David’s prayer. God forgave his sins and filled David with the Holy Spirit who equipped him for a renewed life of faithfulness to God’s Word.

Don’t be burdened by sins in your past. Make this prayer your own. God will purify your heart, forgiving all your sins through Jesus. He will cleanse you from the inside out and lead you to live a new life in faithfulness to him.

Prayer:
Lord God, forgive me for the sins of my past in Jesus’ name. Fill me with your Holy Spirit so that I may live faithfully according to your Word. Amen.

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

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

Jesus Bought You Back – July 12, 2018

July 12, 2018 Kerry

[Jesus Christ] gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.
Titus 2:14

Jesus Bought You Back

Daily Devotion – July 12, 2018

Devotion based on Titus 2:14

See series: Devotions

Have you heard the phrase, “You’re perfect just the way you are”? No one wants to be told they are not. No one wants to be told they are wrong. No one wants to be told they are bad. But if you take an honest look at yourself, does it match the phrase “You’re perfect just the way you are”? Of course not. You have done things that are wrong. You have felt the pangs of guilt. The Bible doesn’t just say that these are kind of bad. The Bible calls them wicked sins.

Sin separates you from God. Like a kidnapper, sin rips you away from having the close relationship to God that he created you to have. It holds you hostage; it’s only goal is to drag you down to death and hell.

A ransom had to be paid, but no amount of money would do. Blood had to be shed to free you from that certain eternal death. Jesus Christ made that ransom payment. He became true man, but unlike the rest of mankind, he was able to reject all the temptations of sin. He lived perfectly in your place, and then he took your place on the cross as he died for all your sins. He redeemed you, that is, he bought you back from the captivity of sin. By his work, he has removed that guilt and sin and purified you.

Out of love, Jesus not only set you free, but he gave you an identity. He made you into a people of his very own. This makes you pure before God. This change also affects what God’s people want to do. Set free from the captivity of sin, God’s people desire to do what is good out of thankfulness for what God has done for them. This is not a burden, but a joyous desire. Be eager to do good, because Christ has bought you back from death to life.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank you for giving your life for mine and freeing me from the captivity of sin. Work in me the desire to do what is good out of thankfulness to you. Amen.

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

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

What Sinners Need to Hear – July 11, 2018

July 11, 2018 Kerry

[The LORD] said to me, “Son of man, stand up on your feet and I will speak to you.” As he spoke, the Spirit came into me and raised me to my feet, and I heard him speaking to me. He said: “Son of man, I am sending you to the Israelites, to a rebellious nation that has rebelled against me; they and their fathers have been in revolt against me to this very day. The people to whom I am sending you are obstinate and stubborn. Say to them, ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says.’ And whether they listen or fail to listen—for they are a rebellious house—they will know that a prophet has been among them.”
Ezekiel 2:1-5

What Sinners Need to Hear

Daily Devotion – July 11, 2018

Devotion based on Ezekiel 2:1-5

See series: Devotions

Someone has said, “It’s hard to correct nations … and relatives. Nations are so distant, and relatives are so close.” When he called Ezekiel, the LORD added, “The people to whom I am sending you are obstinate and stubborn.” Would they listen? It was uncertain, even doubtful. God said, “They … have been in revolt against me to this very day.”

Nevertheless, Ezekiel’s assignment was, “Say to them, ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says.’ And whether they listen or fail to listen … they will know that a prophet has been among them.”

“Wait a minute. I’m not a prophet! If I try to talk to my daughter about living with that man (fine fellow though he otherwise seems to be) without the benefit of marriage, she won’t listen. Or will he? I’m not a prophet!”

Was the man, Ezekiel, God’s point? Was the prophetic office God’s point, or was it the message? “Say to them, ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says.’” What sinners need to hear is “what the Sovereign LORD says.” It’s what you and I need to hear day after day.

It’s not just grandparents’ old-fashioned point of view. It is what the Sovereign LORD says. It is what the Bible says! True, the Bible says, “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). But now it’s not just one sinner talking to another sinner expressing his or her opinion. Sin is sin. This is what the Sovereign LORD says. Yet, the Sovereign LORD also says that when sinners repent of their sins, trusting in the saving merits of Jesus, his Son, “he will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).

Spirit-worked faith moves sinners to listen and strive to serve the Savior. But … “whether they listen or fail to listen,” they must know, “This is what the Sovereign LORD says.”

Prayer:
Dear Holy Spirit, grant your blessing that day by day I learn and listen to your law and gospel with a believing heart and am willing, lovingly but firmly, to say to family, relatives, acquaintances, and neighbors (even to nations), “This is what the Sovereign LORD says.” Amen.

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

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Humblebrag – July 10, 2018

July 10, 2018 Kerry

I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.
2 Corinthians 12:9

Humblebrag

Daily Devotion – July 10, 2018

Devotion based on 2 Corinthians 12:9

See series: Devotions

It’s a term that a comedian officially coined in 2010. The term is humblebrag. To humblebrag is to brag about yourself behind a false show of humility or behind a false complaint.

An example of humblebrag might be this: At a neighborhood party a man says, “I don’t know how my kids grew up to be so grounded and successful considering what kind of dad they have.” Or this: In the office lunchroom a woman complains, “I wish I could just concentrate on my own work, but everyone keeps coming to me for advice.” Or this: On a first date, the young man says, “You should probably know about my character flaws. For one, I’m too conscientious. For another, I tend to care too much about other people.”

Enough examples? No doubt you get the idea.

As it turns out, recent studies have shown that humblebragging does not work very well. An article in a recent edition of Time magazine cites a study in which people actually dislike a humblebrag more than a straightforward brag. In fact, they dislike a humblebrag even more than a straightforward complaint. The reason for this appears to be that people smell a whiff of dishonesty in the humblebrag, whereas the straightforward brag and the straightforward complaint are, at least, sincere.

Which brings us to the apostle Paul. In his second letter to the Christians in Corinth, Paul did a bit of bragging. And his bragging was humble. It was not, however, humblebrag.

On the contrary, Paul found himself in a moment of profound truth. You see, for a long time Paul had been painfully aware of his own weaknesses. He’d been painfully aware of his own failures. He’d been painfully aware of his own inadequacies, struggles, and imperfections. But when Paul fervently asked the Lord several times to take away some of his weakness, the Lord told Paul that it was those very weaknesses that helped Paul keep his eyes focused on God’s grace, God’s undeserved love in Jesus Christ.

And so, take inventory of your weaknesses. Take inventory of your difficulties. Take inventory of your inadequacies and struggles. See how the Lord has used them to keep your field of vision filled with God’s forgiveness of your every sin through faith in Jesus as your Savior. Give thanks for them. Rejoice in them. Parade them as precious evidence of the Lord’s love for you.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank you for using my weaknesses to display your constant grace in my life. I rejoice in them. And I rejoice in you. Amen.

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

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

The Problem with Unbelief – July 9, 2018

July 9, 2018 Kerry

[Jesus] was amazed at their lack of faith.
Mark 6:6

The Problem with Unbelief

Daily Devotion – July 9, 2018

Devotion based on Mark 6:6

See series: Devotions

There were many in Nazareth who could not fathom that Jesus was more than Mary and Joseph’s son. Certainly, they were amazed at his teaching. They were inspired by his wisdom. They were astonished at his miracles. Yet, they were offended. They could not accept what the evidence revealed. Because the people of his hometown rejected Jesus, they also rejected the blessings he came to bring. This is the problem with unbelief, and it is a problem concerning which I need to be on my guard.

It would be foolish to simply dismiss Jesus as a fake or a fraud. While I would think twice about rejecting Jesus in this way, there are other ways unbelief can affect me.

When I pray, do I always have complete confidence in Jesus’ ability to answer for my good? When I study the Bible, do I always accept this is the truth and the certain guide for my life? When I feel the burden of a guilty conscience, do I look to the cross and the peace Jesus offers there? I may say I believe, but there is always a part of me that remains hesitant to put my full trust in Jesus.

Because I have these doubts I need to look at the evidence Jesus provides to support my faith. From the Scriptures, I learn he is faithful to all of his promises—not one has ever been broken. From his obedient life, I see him as my substitute and Savior—he has completed every righteous requirement for my rescue from eternal condemnation. From his death and resurrection, I rejoice to know he is wholly committed to my welfare—I am his for this life and for eternity.

When I rely on what Jesus has said and done, he helps me overcome the problem with unbelief. I will also rejoice to know the blessings he has secured are mine.

Prayer: (Christian Worship: A Lutheran Hymnal – 405)
Oh, for a faith that will not shrink though pressed by many a foe,
That will not tremble on the brink of poverty or woe.

Lord, gives us such a faith as this, and then, whate’er may come,
We’ll taste e’en now the hallowed bliss of an eternal home.

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

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BULLETIN- July 8, 2018 THE SEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

July 8, 2018 Kerry

ST. JOHN’S

Ev. Lutheran Church

Montello, WI

Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod

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THE SEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

JULY 8, 2018

GOD’S WORD FOR TODAY Listen for the Message God Gives You in His Word – Preaching the message of God is not a popularity contest. The size of the crowd and the level of cheering is not what it is all about, but rather being faithful in speaking God’s Word to the specific people and situations. That may ruffle feathers. The unwillingness of people to listen humbles God’s spokesmen. May we always pay close attention to God’s message, no matter how lowly the messenger who brings it.

ORDER OF SERVICE–LITURGY

Service of the Word & Sacrament (hymnal page 26)

PASTOR’S GREETING

OPENING HYMN 243:1-3 “Oh, Worship the King” (printed in hymnal, all sing)

(Please stand)

LITURGY (hymnal page 26, read & sung responsively)

PRAYER OF THE DAY (read by the pastor)

(Please be seated for today’s readings)

THE DAY’S BIBLE READING THEME

Proclaim the Word Whether People Listen or Not

OLD TESTAMENT LESSON Ezekiel 2:1-5

Ezekiel’s call to rebellious Israel

He said to me, “Son of man, stand up on your feet and I will speak to you.” As he spoke, the Spirit came into me and raised me to my feet, and I heard him speaking to me.

He said: “Son of man, I am sending you to the Israelites, to a rebellious nation that has rebelled against me; they and their fathers have been in revolt against me to this very day. The people to whom I am sending you are obstinate and stubborn. Say to them, ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says.’ And whether they listen or fail to listen—for they are a rebellious house—they will know that a prophet has been among them.

PSALM 143 (hymnal page 118 cantor sings the first line, congregation sings the second line, all sing refrains and Gloria)

EPISTLE LESSON 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 (today’s sermon text)

Christ’s power in Paul’s ministry became more evident through Paul’s weaknesses

To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

VERSE OF THE DAY Alleluia! “Happy are they who hear the Word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bring forth fruit with patience.” Alleluia! (Luke 8:15)

LITURGY (hymnal pages 40, all sing)

“Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! These words are written that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!”

(Please stand)

GOSPEL Mark 6:1-6

Jesus, a Prophet without honor

Jesus left there and went to his hometown, accompanied by his disciples. When the Sabbath came, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were amazed.

“Where did this man get these things?” they asked. “What’s this wisdom that has been given him, that he even does miracles! Isn’t this the carpenter? Isn’t this Mary’s son and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas and Simon? Aren’t his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him.

Jesus said to them, “Only in his hometown, among his relatives and in his own house is a prophet without honor.” He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them. And he was amazed at their lack of faith.

After the Gospel, all sing:

“Praise be to you, O Christ”

(Please be seated)

SERMON HYMN 411 “What a Friend We Have in Jesus”

(printed in hymnal, all sing)

SERMON 2 Corinthians 12:7-10

“Consider the Stakes!”

Thorny threats (7-8)
Cross-centered solutions (9-10)

(Please stand after the sermon)

THE NICENE CREED (hymnal page 31, all read)

(Please be seated)

OFFERING, WORSHIPER GREETINGS, & FRIENDSHIP REGISTERS

OFFERING PRAYER

PRAYER FOR MISSIONS

INTERCESSORY PRAYERS

– For those hospitalized, ill, shut-in and facing trials: George Alexander, Gale “Blackie” Boyd, Marilyn Bredeson (Karin’s Stellick’s mother), David Broderick, Alexandria Buehrens (Bob & Carolyn’s great granddaughter), Bob & Carolyn Buehrens, George Chapman, Gene & Sharon Crook, Harley & Liola Crown, Agnes Dassow, Caleb & Emery Degenstein (Mark Emond’s friends), Elaine Emond (Mark’s mother), Marjorie Fabian, Mike Farrell, Donna Gatzke, Kellen Grucza (Judy Fandrey’s daughter), RaeLynn Hodgkins (Beth Johnson’s daughter), Brian & Bonnie Harmon (Linda Lou Wacholtz’ sister & brother-in-law), Brody Henke, Ardis Henning, Geri Kerl (Sue Brown’s mother), Bob Klapper (Sandy’s husband), Doris Klawitter, Aspen Raelynn Lefeber (Barb Hoffman’s greatgrandaughter), Anna Madigan, Kerry & Lily Mann, Ruthie Marcelain (Dawn’s granddaughter), Steve Parrish, Wayne Riemer, Wilma Rudolph, Frankie Russell, Bob Schrank, Bill Schroeder (Ashley’s father-in-law), Jennifer Strauss, Jane Torres (Stacie Starke’s mother), Donny Weber (Betty’s son), Paul Weldon, Raymond Zacharrias (Marilyn Riemer’s brother) – (added this week: Marilyn Bredeson, RaeLynn Hodgkins)

– For William David Krueger, the infant son of Jonathan & Emily Krueger, who will be baptized today (7/8) at Emmanuel

– For loved ones who are absent

– For our communicants at St. John’s

LORD’S PRAYER (hymnal page 32, all read)

(Please stand)

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

(Please be seated for the distribution)

At St. John’s and Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Churches we practice closed Communion. If you are a guest at worship today and interested in receiving the Lord’s Supper, please speak with the pastor prior to the service.

DISTRIBUTION HYMNS 397 “Just As I Am, without One Plea”, 428:1-3 “Why Should Cross and Trial Grieve Me” (printed in hymnal, all sing)

(Please stand)

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

CLOSING HYMN 428:4 “Why Should Cross and Trial Grieve Me” (printed in hymnal, all sing)

ANNOUNCEMENTS

THEME FOR NEXT SUNDAY, JULY 15, 2018

The Eighth Sunday after Pentecost:

God Established Our Ministry: Teacher Installation

Note: Please give your completed friendship register page to an usher or pastor as you leave today’s service.

ACTIVITIES FOR THE WEEK JULY 8-JULY 14
Sun.	8:00 A.M.		Emmanuel Worship with holy baptism of William David Krueger
	10:00 A.M.		St. John’s Worship with communion
Mon.
Tues.
Wed.	6:30 P.M.		St. John’s Worship
Thurs.	10:00 A.M.		Montello Care Center devotion
Fri.
Sat.
SCHEDULE FOR NEXT SUNDAY, JULY 15, 2018 The Eighth Sunday after Pentecost: God Established Our Ministry: Teacher Installation
8:00 A.M.		Emmanuel Worship
10:00 A.M.		St. John’s Worship with Teacher Installation
11:15 A.M.		Light lunch at St. John’s lower level

THANK YOU to all those to volunteered your time at our St. John’s church/school information booth at this week’s county fair.

TEACHER INSTALLATION Next Sunday 7/15 at St. John’s, following the installation of our new 5-8th grade teacher, Rachel Naumann, all are invited to the lower level of church for refreshments. Members are invited to bring a tray of “finger food” items, ie. fruit & veggies, sandwiches & sweets. Drinks will be provided. Come and meet your new teacher.

OFFICE SUMMER HOURS Mondays 8:00am-4:00pm, Tuesdays 8:00am-4:00pm, and Thursdays 8:00am-12:00pm.

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!

We will need as many volunteers (adults and older kids) as we can get to help run our VBS this year. If you want to help, call the office and let Ciara know ASAP!

Here is a list of things needed: glue, glue sticks, onion powder, cardstock paper, ground mustard, yellow mustard, black and red permanent markers, plastic mixing spoons, apple corer, small mixing bowls, baking rack, garlic powder, microwave-safe bowls, box of food coloring, silver glitter, toothpicks, measuring cups, measuring spoons, baby oil, white sand, sea shells red satin ribbon, cross penny, satin nylon cord, heavy duty paper plates, black felt, 18 oz. plastic bottles (BAI), black construction paper, 32 quarters, masing tape, index cards, blindfolds, 40 ping pong balls, long rope, water guns.

INVITATION Friedens Lutheran Church in Randolph, WI invites you to a special presentation on Medical Ethics Part Two, Christian Decision Making by Rev. Wayne Mueller. Pastor Mueller will be speaking about Sexual Ethics and End of Life Decisions. He will be addressing such questions as: Can there ever be a bad reason for deciding to have more children? What happens to the souls of babies who are aborted? Are some forms of birth control less moral than others? Please join us on Saturday, July 14^th from 1:00-3:15pm. Fellowship and lite refreshments to follow. See sign-up sheet in Emmanuel parish hall and St. John’s info room.

CHRISTIAN ONE-LINERS (from a WELS pastor): “If God is your co-pilot, swap seats!”

WELS INTERNATIONAL YOUTH RALLY at Bowling Green, Kentucky State University June 26-29 – St. John’s–Montello Youth Group leaders: Mark & Patty Emond; YG members: Isaac Emond, Nellie Kendall, Jasmine Lange, Autumn Loveland, Lyla Roush, Austin Thornton. Thanks for your participation, prayers and support.

*St. John’s Greeter Schedule*
July 1	Delvin & Jean Henke
July 8	Paul & Christa Van Treeck
July 15	Susan Brown & Kathy North
July 22	Sara Borck & Jennie Utke

Attendance

Emmanuel

St. John’s

7-1 7-4

124 3

St. John’s Altar Committee:

July 2018

Elain Kelm

Carolyn Rosenthal

Usher Schedule

July 1

(with comm)

Jack Yates; Chief, Calvin Wojtalewicz, Zeb Zuehls, Mark Emond, Kevin Kaul

Don Stelter, Jim Stuempges, Joe Heller, comm. assist. Wayne Stelter

July 8

(with comm)

Don Smith; Chief, Scott Ritz, James Kunde, Ken Borzick, Thomas Wojtalewicz

Brian Ninnemann, Noah Buchholz, Paul Dahlke

July 15

Kenon Smith; Chief, Ben Emond, Tyler Emond, James Henke, Paul Van Treeck

Lucas Stelter, Warren Buchholz, Don Stelter

July 22

(with comm)

Cal Kapp; Chief, Martin Schmanke, Lee Ollendorf, Aaron Kendall, Chuck Boetcher

Darrell Buchholz, Glenn Buchholz, Joe Heller

Welcome To Our Visitors!

Please Sign Our Guest Register

Visit our website & Facebook link at: www.stjohnsmontello.org

https://www.facebook.com/St-Johns-Evangelical-Lutheran-Church-107160252675/

Pastor Peter Zietlow Office (608) 297-2321

Cell & Text (608) 408-7830,

E-mail: zietlowpl6@hotmail.com

Teacher: Karin Stellick (920) 342-3689

Teacher: Sara Borck (858) 731-7919

Church/School Secretary: Ciara Neuhauser

(608) 297-2866

Altar Ladies: Elaine Kelm (920) 344-0025

Carolyn Rosenthal 589-5036

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

OR scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org

WLA Principal: Mr. David Schroeder

Office (920) 921-4930

WLA website: www.wlavikings.org

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Jesus’ Invitation – July 8, 2018

July 8, 2018 Kerry

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30

Jesus’ Invitation

Daily Devotion – July 8, 2018

Devotion based on Matthew 11:28-30

See series: Devotions

The people to whom Jesus first spoke these words were very much like you and me. People who were looking. People who were searching. People who were tired. Jesus was calling all those who were weary from trying to work out their own salvation, from trying to make themselves right with God, from trying to find their own way to heaven. He was inviting all those who were weighed down by the burden of vainly, fruitlessly striving for peace, contentment, and happiness in ways that didn’t work and in places where it could not be found.

All these people could come to Jesus. He didn’t put up any walls. He didn’t play favorites. He didn’t cater to people who acted a certain way, or dressed a certain way, or talked a certain way. There was no “in crowd” when it came to Jesus’ invitation.

So Jesus’ invitation is extended to us. It is extended to all of us, regardless of our age or upbringing, regardless of our background or past. Regardless of who we have been or where we have been, regardless of who we are or where we are, Jesus says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

“Learn from me,” Jesus says. One thing we learn is that God can’t accept us as we are by nature. His holiness and justice won’t allow it. Our sins separate us from God. And the wages of sin is death—physical, spiritual and eternal death.

Another thing we learn is that God did everything necessary to make us acceptable to him. Because he is gentle and humble in heart, he gave himself for us, that we might have rest for our souls.

That means an end to the weariness of trying to work out our own salvation, of trying to make ourselves right with God, of trying to find our own way to heaven. It means an end to the burden of vainly, fruitlessly striving for peace, contentment, and happiness in ways that don’t work and in places where it cannot be found. It means knowing you are a redeemed and forgiven child of God and an heir of eternal life. It means looking forward to perfect rest with Jesus in heaven.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, let me find rest in you today, and always. Amen.

This devotion was selected from the Daily Devotion archive.

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

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