January 2019 – Page 3 – St. John's Evangelical

A Bad Day – January 13, 2019

January 13, 2019 Kerry

Because of the LORD’S great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:22-23

A Bad Day

Daily Devotion – January 13, 2019

Devotion based on Lamentations 3:22-23

See series: Devotions

“I just need this day to end!” Ever felt that way? Ever felt that way already by noon? When things are going poorly, that thought can be a very real one. When things seem to go from bad to worse as the day progresses, a desire for it to end might well be our sentiment. There is something about a new day, a fresh start that seems to put things in perspective and gives renewed energy.

The Old Testament writer of these words from a book called Lamentations was having more than a bad day. He had experienced a whole bunch of them. Enemies of the nation had entered it ruthlessly. They deported most of the people. Cities lay in ruins. The temple of God in Jerusalem had been destroyed. The annihilated nation was the laughingstock of her neighbors. A once proud and mighty country had been reduced to rubble. And the worst part? It was their own fault! Because the people of Judah had turned away from the Word and the will of the Lord, he had caused this to happen. He had done it that they might wake up and turn from their current path of spiritual destruction.

But then right in the middle of this book of mourning come words of comfort and hope. Words of refreshment and renewal to the broken down and despondent: The Lord hasn’t abandoned us! The Lord is full of love and compassion toward us! No matter how faithless we’ve been, the Lord remains faithful! As a new day and a fresh start are the grace and mercy of God, the unfailing promises of God, centered in the rising Sun of a Savior from sin, gave hope to Jeremiah (author of this short book) and any of his countrymen who would give ear and heart to this beautiful message.

There are many things that contribute to bad days. Too often at least some of them are our own fault. A harsh word to a family member causes a rift. A rude email to a co-worker makes a project bog down. A bit of laziness or procrastination puts us behind schedule. A night of partying leads to a day of misery. The list might go on. As we come to a realization that we are often to blame for our own difficulties, let’s remember these words of comfort and hope from Lamentations. The One promised to them has come to us as the baby born in Bethlehem. The One they awaited to deal with their sin is the Savior Jesus Christ who gave himself as a sacrifice for sin on Calvary’s cross. In his forgiveness each day is a new and fresh one. And if we happen to be dealing with something that’s not particularly our fault, remember the One who has risen from the dead and stands to fuel your spirit with his compassionate love and faithful companionship. With the Lord and his promises, every day is a new one!

Prayer:
Lord, although we don’t deserve it, you shower us with your love and mercy each day and each hour of the day. Help us to look to you and to lean on you and your compassionate faithfulness in Jesus at all times. In his name we pray. 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.

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.

Who is Jesus – January 12, 2019

January 12, 2019 Kerry

On hearing his words, some of the people said, “Surely this man is the Prophet.” Others said, “He is the Christ.” Still others asked, “How can the Christ come from Galilee? Does not the Scripture say that the Christ will come from David’s family and from Bethlehem, the town where David lived?” Thus the people were divided because of Jesus.
John 7:40-43

Who is Jesus

Daily Devotion – January 12, 2019

Devotion based on John 7:40-43

See series: Devotions

The crowds were divided. They could not come to any agreement regarding Jesus. Some thought he was the “Prophet” promised by God through Moses. Some thought he was the Christ, the one promised by God to set them free. Still others couldn’t accept anything about Jesus because he didn’t fit their understanding of the Scriptures. So, who is Jesus? It is a question for which I need an answer.

Today there are still many of the same beliefs and opinions about Jesus. Some people still believe he is a prophet, but only a prophet. Some still believe he was sent by God, but they stop short of believing he is God. There are even some who reject Jesus altogether because he does not conform to their ideas regarding the Savior they need. Unfortunately, all these opinions and beliefs end in conflict and confusion, and ultimately in eternal condemnation.

The only reliable answer comes from God’s Word and is accepted through faith worked by the Holy Spirit. God’s Word provides the clear truth regarding Jesus. Without hesitation or qualification it proclaims Jesus is true God and true Man born of Mary. It also proclaims Jesus is the Christ sent by God to suffer and die to pay the price for my freedom. It further proclaims Jesus is the victorious Savior who lives, rules, and protects me with his unsurpassed power and undeserved love. It is faith which trusts everything the Bible says. It is finally faith which leads me to confidently confess Jesus is everything the Bible says he is.

The world may be full of opinions and beliefs regarding Jesus, but there is only one truth. It is the truth which saves, and it is the truth to which I must cling: Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and my only Savior.

Prayer:(Christian Worship: A Lutheran Hymnal – 358)
How sweet the name of Jesus sounds in a believer’s ear!
It soothes our sorrows, heals our wounds, and drives away all fear.

O Jesus, Shepherd, Guardian, Friend, my Prophet, Priest, and King,
My Lord, my Life, my Way, my End, accept the praise I bring.

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- FIRST SUNDAY AFTER THE EPIPHANY JANUARY 13, 2019

January 11, 2019 lillyk24

ST. JOHN’S & EMMANUEL

Ev. Lutheran Churches

Montello & Mecan, WI

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Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod

FIRST SUNDAY AFTER THE EPIPHANY

JANUARY 13, 2019

Please welcome Pastor Tom Klusmeyer

from Camp Phillip-Wautoma

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 Comes to Save Us, Even as an Infant – Whether or not we had a “good Christmas,” as some may ask us, today over and over we hear good news of God’s grace.

Order of Service

“Camp-style” Worship led by Pastor Tom Klusmeyer from Camp Phillip

Pastor’s Greeting

Invocation & Psalm 118:24

“This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

“This is the day”

This is the day, this is the day

that the Lord has made, that the Lord has made,

let us rejoice, let us rejoice

and be glad in it, and be glad in it.

This is the day that the Lord has made,

let us rejoice and be glad in it,

this is the day, this is the day that the Lord has made.

Scripture reading and Confessions of sins:

Philippians 3:17-4:1

Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you. 18 For, as I have often told you before and now say again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is on earthly things. 20 But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

4:1 Therefore, my brothers, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, that is how you should stand firm in the Lord, dear friends!

“Across the lands”

You’re the Word of God the Father From before the world began Ev’ry star and ev’ry planet Has been fashioned by Your hand All creation holds together By the power of Your voice Let the skies declare Your glory Let the land and seas rejoice

Chorus: You’re the author of creation You’re the Lord of ev’ry man And Your cry of love rings out Across the lands.

Yet You left the gaze of angels Came to seek and save the lost And exchanged the joy of heaven For the anguish of a cross With a prayer You fed the hungry With a word You stilled the sea Yet how silently You suffered That the guilty may go free

(Chorus)

With a shout You rose victorious Wresting victory from the grave

And ascended into heaven Leading captives in Your wake

Now You stand before the Father Interceding for Your own From each tribe and tongue and nation

You are leading sinners home

(Chorus)

Scripture reading: Philippians 1:12-18

Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. 13 As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. 14 Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly.

15 It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. 16 The latter do so in love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17 The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. 18 But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.

Scripture reading: Philippians 4:2-13

I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to agree with each other in the Lord. 3 Yes, and I ask you, loyal yokefellow, help these women who have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.

4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me- -put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

10 I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. 11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

“Rejoice in the Lord always”

Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say, “Rejoice!”

Rejoice! Rejoice! And again I say, “Rejoice!”

Devotion: Philippians 4:8-9

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me–put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

Prayer / Offering / WELS Connection DVD / Member welcome and Lord’s supper at St. John

The offering now is for the ministry at your congregation. A door offering after the service is for the ministry at Camp Phillip.

Out of love for God’s Word and people’s souls, we offer the Lord’s Supper only to communicant members of St. John’s and Emmanuel Ev. Lutheran Churches or other congregations of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS) (1 Corinthians 10:17, 11:26-29). Visitors who are not yet communicant members of our church are respectfully asked to refrain from communing today, but are encouraged to speak with the pastor after the service about how to become communicant members.

Intercessory Prayers (read by pastor)

– For those hospitalized, ill, shut-in and facing trials: George Alexander, George Chapman, Gene & Sharon Crook, Harley & Liola Crown & son Terry, Agnes Dassow, Reinold Eckelberg, Elaine Emond (Mark’s mother), Earl Ewert, Mike Farrell, Kellen Grucza (Judy Fandrey’s daughter), Dawn Hirn (Linda Krause’s niece), Bob Klapper (Sandy’s husband), Arden “Bill” Klimke, Linda Krause, Pete Laun, Lilly Mann, LuAnn Reber, Frankie Russell, Mark & Peggy Russell (Elsa’s son & daughter in-law), Al & Darlene Schmidt (Dawn Marcelain & Candace Sonnenberg’s parents), Dennis Schwanke (Mary Isberner’s friend), Amanda Stalker, Dennis & Ramona Wacholtz, Donny Weber (Betty’s son), Paul Weldon, Millie Wildt (John’s wife) – (added this week: )

– For teachers called at the 12/16 SJ Voters meeting: Michael & Megan Allard from St. John’s–Neilsville to serve at St. John’s School–Montello as principal/teacher & K4,K5 teacher respectively

– For Dan Finger, after completion of our Bible Information Class, welcomed in today’s service (1/13) as a communicant member at St. John’s

– For our communicants at St. John’s

– For Harold and Judy Fandrey who celebrated their 35^th wedding anniversary on Monday (1/7).

“You are the Shepherd”

You are the Shepherd; I belong to You. When I walk on rough ground, You can guide me through. You know my name, you know my voice. Before I was born, I was Your choice. Show me how to follow. Lord, keep me close to You. You are the Shepherd; I belong to You. (Repeat)

Open eyes to see You are the Way.

Open ears to hear You are the Truth.

Open hearts to know you are the Lord of life.

For every land, You hold a special plan.

Show me how to follow. Lord, keep me close to you.

You are the Shepherd; I belong to You.

“Calypso doxology”

Praise God from whom all blessings flow.

Praise God, all you people, let it show.

Praise God above, let all heaven sing it. Creator, Son and Holy Spirit.

Well, A-men, A-men, A-men, Oh, A-men

Yes, A-men, A-men, Creator, Son and Holy Spirit.

Benediction

(Note: As you leave today’s service please give your completed Friendship Register sheet to an usher or pastor.)

Announcements

Theme for Next Sunday January 20, 2019

Epiphany 2: “Jesus Is the Heavenly Bridegroom”

Activities for the week of January 13 – January 19
Sun.	8:00 A.M.		Emmanuel Worship
	8:30 A.M.		St. John’s Sunday School
	9:00 A..M.		St. John’s Adult Bible Study
	10:00 A.M.		St. John’s Worship with communion
Mon.	6:30 P.M.		Bible Information Class at St. John’s
	6:30 P.M.		Choir at St. John’s
	7:30 P.M.		Adult Bible Study at St. John’s
Tues.	11:30 A.M.		St. John’s School Hot Lunch
	6:30 P.M.		Men’s Bible Study at St. John’s
Wed.	8:00 A.M.		St. John’s School Chapel
	10:00 A.M.		Adult Bible Study at St. John’s
	1:40 P.M.		St. John’s School/Little Lambs early release
	2:15 P.M.		Public School Teen Confirmation at St. John’s
	6:30 P.M.		St. John’s Worship
Thurs.	8:00 A.M.		St. John’s School Teen Confirmation
	6:30 P.M.		St. John’s Council meeting
Fri.
Sat.
Schedule for Next Sunday: January 20, 2019 Epiphany 2: “Jesus Is the Heavenly Bridegroom”
8:00 A.M.		Emmanuel Worship
8:30 A.M.		St. John’s Sunday School
9:00 A.M.		St. John’s Adult Bible Study
10:00 A.M.		St. John’s Worship
11:15 A.M.		St. John’s Elders & Shepherds lunch & meeting

Camp Phillip provides relaxation in creation and renewal in Christ to WELS youth, adults, families, churches and schools throughout the year.

W9944 Buttercup Ave Wautoma, WI 54982-7032

Phone (920)787-3202

Fax (920)787-0032

Website www.campphillip.com

E-mail office@campphillip.com

Camp Phillip programs this year include:

• Grades K-2: (3) half week Pee Wee camps

• Grades 2-4: (3) half week Fledgling camps

• Grades 3-5: (1) full week Son Shine camp

• Grades 4-6: (2) full week Son Shine camps and (6) full week Specialty camps

• Grades 5-8: (1) half week Son Rise camp for grades 5-8

• Grades 6-8: (2) full week Son Shine camps and (11) full week Specialty camps

• Grades 7-8: (1) weekend Confirmation retreat

• Teens: (1) 5-day Jr staff training and (3) weekend Teen retreats

• Families: (1) weekend Family Fest and (1) weekend Labor day retreat

• Women: (2) weekend Women’s retreat and (2) weekend Quilting retreats

• Grandparents/grandchildren: (1) half week Grand camp

• Jesus Cares: (1) 4-day Jesus Cares camp

For program dates, go to www.campphillip.com/registration

2019 OFFERING ENVELOPES are ready for pick up in the link way at St. John’s. If you did not receive a box and would like to, please let Ciara know at the office (297-2866) or there is a sign up in the link way.

2018 OFFERING STATEMENT SIGN UP is now available in the link way. Please pick your statement up in the link way as well.

ART FOR DINNER It’s that time of the year, Art for Dinner will be held Saturday, February 2^nd,at 5:00p.m. in the Montello High School community room. This is our 4^th Annual Fundraiser to help improve our school. This year the money raised will go to our Athletic Fund (funds will cover things such as new uniforms, tournament fees, updated equipment, etc.) We need your help! Please consider purchasing a ticket and enjoying the evening or consider making a donation. We are also looking for donations of items for our basket raffle. If you would be able to donate a basket already made up, any type of items, or services, gift cards, or products! If you know of any businesses that would be willing to donate, please ask them

as well. Please have all donations turned into the office by Wednesday, January 30^th. If you would like to work on projects at home or in the classroom, please feel free to do so and we would love to include them in our silent auction fundraiser. Any other family (Grandmas, Dads, Uncles, Cousins) art projects are welcome as well. God has blessed many of us with lots of different talents! We are very excited to be having this fundraiser and with your help, we are hoping that it will be a great success! Please help spread the word to anyone you think would like to support our school!

Any questions, please contact:

Megan Jaster- 608-369-3456 mj.jastersag@outlook.com or

Ciara Neuhauser 608-369-0901 ciaraneuhauser24@gmail.com

What Drives You? That is one of the questions we will be thinking about this coming week at the Men’s Bible Study on Tuesday at 6:30pm. We will be asking the man called Saul, who is also the Apostle Paul, the same question. In January/February we will be looking to grow as we consider: “You Can Call Me Saul-You Can Call Me Paul-Just Call Me Saved By Grace,” as we see him in the book of Acts.

CHRISTIAN ONE-LINERS (from a WELS member): “If a church wants a better pastor, it only needs to pray for the one it has.”

Usher Schedule

January 13

Lucas Stelter, Bob Ferber, Joe Heller

Dennis Wacholtz; Chief, Chuck Boetcher, Jim Eisermann, Corey Kaul, Jerre Duerr

January 20

Don Stelter, Jim Stuempges, DuWayne Sommerfeld

Jack Yates; Chief, Robin Smith, Del Henke, Joe Zauner, Gordon Krause

January 27

Brian Ninnemann, Noah Buchholz, Gary Wagner

Don Smith; Chief, Richard Freitag, Gerhardt Voigt, Mitch Simon, Karl Whitrock

February 3

Darrel Buchholz, Bruce Stelter, Brian Ninnemann, comm. assist. Lucas Stelter

Kenon Smith; Chief, Matt Borzick, Glen Bubolz, Al Rosenthal, Christopher Smith

February 10

DuWayne Sommerfeld, Paul Wuerch, Paul Dahlke

Cal Kapp; Chief, Calvin Wojtalewicz, Zeb Zuehls, Mark Emond, Kevin Kaul

February 17

Wayne Stelter, Glenn Buchholz, Joe Heller

James Wachholz; Chief, Scott Ritz, Ken Borzick, Ben Emond, Thomas Wojtalewicz

February 24

Lucas Stelter, Warren Buchholz, DuWayne Sommerfeld

Dennis Wacholtz; Chief, James Henke, Paul Van Treeck, Martin Schmanke, Lee Ollendorf

St. John’s Greeters Schedule
January 13	Scott & Debbie Ritz
January 20	Karl Whitrock & Elsa Russell
January 27	Jim & Diane Eisermann
February 3	Harold & Judy Fandrey
February 10	Kenon & Mary Smith
February 17	Al & Carolyn Rosenthal
February 24	Dixie Wagner & Bernice Wegner

Attendance

Emmanuel

St. John’s

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St. John’s Altar Committee:

January 2019

Elaine Kelm

Carolyn Rosenthal

Welcome To Our Visitors!

Please Sign Our Guest Register

Visit our website link at: www.stjohnsmontello.org

Like & find us on Facebook

Pastor Peter Zietlow Office (608) 297-2321

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

Teacher Karin Stellick (920) 342-3689

Teacher Sara Borck (858) 731-7919

Teacher Rachel Naumann (847) 913-2135

Teacher Cassie Doering (920) 723-8986

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

Altar Ladies Elaine Kelm (920) 344-0025 &

Carolyn Rosenthal 589-5036

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

OR scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org

Sing a New Song – January 11, 2019

January 11, 2019 Kerry

Sing to the LORD a new song, for he has done marvelous things; his right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him.
Psalm 98:1

Sing a New Song

Daily Devotion – January 11, 2019

Devotion based on Psalm 98:1

See series: Devotions

Have you ever noticed how much music and singing is associated with the Christian religion? There are Christian radio stations that are singularly dedicated to playing songs dedicated to Jesus. Christian worship includes music played on various instruments and sung by trained vocalists. Many Christian churches encourage the people in the seats to join in singing hymns and psalms. Have you ever wondered why? I’ll bet you have, especially if singing’s not your thing.

Why do Christians sing? The words of Psalm 98 give us the answers. The first one is this: The Lord wants us to. But the reason for that is deeper than you might think. The Lord certainly loves music and takes delight in the beauty of melodies and harmonies that please the ear. Undoubtedly, he takes pleasure in beautiful music produced by trained musicians and practiced vocalists. But there is so much more! He is much more interested in the content of our songs than in the musical mastery or flawless performance.

He encourages his people to sing a “new song.” And then he tells us what that new song is. He doesn’t hand out a piece of music with notes and performance directions. He tells us that the new song he desires is one that declares the marvelous things he has done. He has worked salvation. He has carried out a saving act. He hasn’t done it for himself (as though he needs saving), but he has done it by himself because those who needed him to save them couldn’t do it by themselves.

God saves. Like a well-trained Navy Seal team sent on a rescue operation he invades enemy territory to deliver from captivity. Like a brave firefighter he enters a dangerous situation to rescue from the flames. Jesus Christ entered our world as a baby in Bethlehem. He grew from childhood to manhood, all the while perfectly carrying out his Father’s will. As a relatively young man he willingly went to a gruesome death. He did it all to save sinners who couldn’t save themselves. He came into our dark world to deliver us from death and eternal condemnation. When he rose from his tomb, he declared that death is defeated, and the devil rendered powerless. He came to seek and to save those who were lost, including you and me. And that’s worth singing about!

Whether you are a good singer or not; whether you can read notes and sing in a choir or whether you can’t carry a tune…the Lord wants to hear you singing a new song of thanks and praise to him as the one who has marvelously saved you!

Prayer:
Lord, you have provided us with the words of a new and marvelous song through the life, death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus. Help us to sing your praise with joy and thanksgiving all the days of our lives. In Jesus’ name. 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.

Making Everything New – January 10, 2019

January 10, 2019 Kerry

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”
Revelation 21:1-5

Making Everything New

Daily Devotion – January 10, 2019

Devotion based on Revelation 21:1-5

See series: Devotions

The Scriptures teach that our present world and all of God’s original creation will be destroyed at the end of time. God will, however, make a “new heaven and a new earth.” The apostle John was granted the vision of these things fulfilled, and he saw the “new Jerusalem” which is described as “a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.” At the end of time Jesus Christ will come in glorious procession attended by his angels to take his bride—the Church of all believers—to his heavenly home for an eternal wedding feast. The heavenly wedding feast of Christ and his church is when the “dwelling of God is with men.” The redeemed will see God. In his first epistle John wrote: “We shall see him as he is” (1 John 3:2). The Church will no longer walk by faith, but by sight. And God’s covenant of grace will be established with them forever, for “they will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.”

The description of bliss for God’s people in this new heaven and earth is comforting: “God will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” It is this glorious prospect that for centuries has sustained Christians in the midst of their earthly trials and sufferings. One day we will have the bliss of heaven where there will be no sin and no effects of sin. Nothing will dim the perfect bliss which God has planned and prepared for his faithful people.

Jesus himself gives us assurance that what John saw in his vision will indeed come to pass. He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” All this will take place because Jesus is in charge of making it happen. He is the one who has all power in heaven and on earth is the one making all things new. Jesus’ words bring us much comfort and encouragement. No matter what the world situation looks like, no matter what types of persecution or hardship enter our lives, Jesus is in control and guiding everything for our good so that finally heaven and all its bliss will be ours. Jesus declares, “These words are trustworthy and true.” We can count on it…Jesus is “making everything new” …for us!

Prayer:
Jesus, thank you for the encouragement and comfort that finally everything will be new when you come and take me to be with you in heaven. 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.

Light of the World – January 9, 2019

January 9, 2019 Kerry

“Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you. See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the LORD rises upon you and his glory appears over you. Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn. Lift up your eyes and look about you: All assemble and come to you; your sons come from afar, and your daughters are carried on the arm. Then you will look and be radiant, your heart will throb and swell with joy; the wealth on the seas will be brought to you, to you the riches of the nations will come. Herds of camels will cover your land, young camels of Midian and Ephah. And all from Sheba will come, bearing gold and incense and proclaiming the praise of the LORD.”
Isaiah 60:1-6

Light of the World

Daily Devotion – January 9, 2019

Devotion based on Isaiah 60:1-6

See series: Devotions

Bugs of all shapes and sizes are drawn to light. If you’ve ever spent any time outdoors in the summer, especially in the evening, then you know how true it is that outdoor lights attract bugs.

Not that we want to compare ourselves to insects, but there is something to be said about the draw of light. If you think about it, a light shining in a dark place is going to draw attention, naturally. The same is true about the Light of the world. The world was steeped in the darkness of sin. God’s Word says, “A darkness covers the earth, thick darkness is over the peoples.” That darkness was sin. But notice what happens when a light appears: We’re called to arise. We’re called to shine. We’re told that “nations will come to (the light) and people to the brightness (of the light). That light is none other than the Light of the world, Jesus. Only Jesus can bring the world out of darkness into his wonderful light. Only the truth of Jesus can bring people from the ends of the earth to look for his light. Only Jesus can prompt the praises of nations. Only Jesus.

Only the revelation of Jesus as the Messiah, the promised Savior could prompt such a reaction. Friends, the same is true today. Proclaim Jesus. Proclaim that the Light of the world has come. Proclaim Jesus, and “you will look and be radiant, your heart will throb and swell with joy.”

Prayer:
Jesus, Light of the world, shine in our hearts and lives and bring forth the joy and peace that only you can give. Amen.

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

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Privilege – January 8, 2019

January 8, 2019 Kerry

Although I am less than the least of all God’s people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ.
Ephesians 3:8

Privilege

Daily Devotion – January 8, 2019

Devotion based on Ephesians 3:8

See series: Devotions

In the world of classical music, a contralto singer by the name of Marian Anderson was a giant. The beauty of her voice enthralled audiences around the world. She sang in the White House for Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt. She sang for the King and Queen of England. She brought tears to the eyes of a world-renowned voice teacher. A legendary conductor declared that Marian Anderson possessed the finest voice of the century.

Perhaps even more stunning, however, was Marian’s profound gratitude for what she had. A reporter once asked Marian to name the greatest moment in her life. Her answer said a lot about her and a lot about the sense of gratitude that empowered her throughout her career. When the reporter asked Marian Anderson to name the greatest moment in her life, she said it was the day she got to go home and share the news that her widowed mother wouldn’t have to do other people’s laundry anymore.

The Word of God before us comes from the apostle Paul. Paul was one of the greatest proclaimers of Jesus Christ the world has ever seen. Throughout his years of sharing the gospel, however, Paul endured difficulties and hardships of every description. Nevertheless, Paul never forgot the high privilege he possessed. He had tasted the sweet forgiveness of sin his soul had through faith in Jesus Christ. To know he now had the honor to carry that good news to others—such an honor filled him with a gratitude that empowered him throughout his ministry.

You and I have that same privilege. Like Paul, you and I have savored the forgiveness we possess through faith in Jesus. And now it is our high honor to share that good news of forgiveness with others. True, God has given each of us different gifts. But whatever those gifts are, we can use them to touch another soul. As Marian Anderson once said, “Everyone has a gift for something, even if it is the gift of being a good friend.”

And so take the gift you have. Praise God for it. And use it for the privilege to bring someone else into contact with Jesus Christ.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for the privilege of sharing Jesus with others. By your gospel, fill my heart to overflowing with gratitude. Fill it every day. Amen.

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

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Further Instruction Required – January 7, 2019

January 7, 2019 Kerry

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who has been born King of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him.”
Matthew 2:1-2

Further Instruction Required

Daily Devotion – January 7, 2019

Devotion based on Matthew 2:1-2

See series: Devotions

It is easy to marvel at the journey of the Magi. They went to great lengths, faced many challenges, and endured many hardships. Even after all of that, upon their arrival in Jerusalem they didn’t achieve their goal. They still had to ask, “Where is the one who has been born King of the Jews?” They required further instruction to find the answer to their quest.

Like the wise men, I too search for the one who is born King of the Jews. While my journey is noble and sincere, if I rely only on my own efforts and knowledge I will fail to find him. Further instruction is required.

In my search I need to avoid the temptation to be satisfied with a king and god of my own making. This kind of deity and ruler would delight my sinful flesh, but it would accomplish nothing to bring me closer to the true God. Once again, further instruction is required.

The only way I can find the true God and his Son is to go directly to the Scriptures. In the Bible, God’s inspired book for instruction, I come to know who God truly is. I also come to understand what he has done for me. He sent his Son to this earth to be more than a king of one nation of people. God sent Jesus to be the King of kings and Lord of lords, “so that every knee should bow in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord” (Philippians 2:10,11). What is even more important is that through the instruction of God’s Word I come to know what Jesus has done for me. His unquestioning obedience to fulfill his Father’s will in my place. His sinless sacrifice on the cross to secure my release from guilt. His innocent death to rescue me from the power of the devil. His victorious resurrection to proclaim my freedom from death and the grave. He did all of this so that I could come to him and worship him.

In order to know Jesus as my Savior I need to be guided to him. Without the instruction God the Father has provided in his Word, I would remain lost and condemned to a fruitless and futile search. This is why I rejoice, because God has provided all the instruction I required.

Prayer:
O gracious Lord, heavenly Father, I rejoice in your Word of Truth. Through that Word I receive the instruction I need to know that Jesus is my Lord and my Savior. Amen.

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

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How Long Have You Been Waiting – January 6, 2019

January 6, 2019 Kerry

Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.”
Luke 2:28-32

How Long Have You Been Waiting

Daily Devotion – January 6, 2019

Devotion based on Luke 2:28-32

See series: Devotions

How long did you wait—for that perfect partner, that perfect job, that perfect house? Once you had what you were waiting for, was it everything you had hoped it would be? Is your marriage perfect in every way? Do you absolutely love driving to work every day? Is your house without defect of any kind? I didn’t think so. Most of the time, the people and things we wait for fail to live up to our expectations.

Simeon was waiting for the promised Savior. And, unlike your marriage partner or job or house, when Simeon received what he was waiting for, it was perfect in every way. It is why Simeon was able to tell the Lord, “You now dismiss your servant in peace.” Simeon could die in peace because his eyes had seen his salvation. Imagine Simeon letting the baby wrap his little hand around his finger, the way babies do. That same hand would be pierced by a spike and nailed to a tree. That same precious face would be darkened by fists and bloodied by a crown of thorns. But that act would mean light for a sin-darkened world.

And that means you, dear friend. Jesus was born for you, to die for you, to win forgiveness for you. Like Simeon you can say, “Lord, now dismiss your servant in peace. For even though I may not have the perfect marriage, perfect job, or the perfect house, I have peace—the peace of knowing I have eternal life through you.”

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, when you finally dismiss this servant through death, I know that when I open my eyes again, they will see your face, for you have done what you have promised for me. May I always sing your praises as Simeon did. Amen.

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

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The Perfect Christmas Present – January 5, 2019

January 5, 2019 Kerry

Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God.
Luke 2:25-28a

The Perfect Christmas Present

Daily Devotion – January 5, 2019

Devotion based on Luke 2:25-28a

See series: Devotions

Simeon was waiting for the perfect gift. The Bible doesn’t tell us how long he waited for that gift. But, it would be the greatest present Simeon ever received. The Holy Spirit had given Simeon a special revelation that he would not die before he saw the promised Savior. This Savior would be “the consolation of Israel”—someone who would comfort sinners by living, dying, and rising again for them, to save them from sin, death, and the devil.

Simeon held that gift in his arms, a baby, only 40 days old, in the temple courts in Jerusalem. Imagine Simeon’s face, tears of joy streaming down his cheeks as he stared at the face of God wrapped in human flesh. This little child had already begun to comfort sinners, because as a 40-day-old baby, Jesus was fulfilling God’s law for sinners. His parents had brought him to do what the law required: a sacrifice of purification for mom (Leviticus 12:7,8), and the dedication of the firstborn to God (Exodus 13:2-13). He would grow up to do so much more. He would live with perfect joy in perfect obedience to all of God’s laws for you and me. By that life of perfect joy and obedience you have the perfect Christmas gift, a gift that will last: Christ’s life lived for you.

Like Simeon, hold the baby Jesus in arms of faith and praise God for such a gift!

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, already as a forty-day-old baby you began to keep the law for me. I never have to wonder if I have done enough for you because I know that you have done enough for me. 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.