Summer is a great time to appreciate the beauty and wonder of God’s creation. This summer, many of us are limited in where we can go and what we can do. Because of the concerns surrounding COVID 19, we are not having the St. John’s Soccer Camp this year. Instead, we are pleased to offer our very first “Creation Camp.” This six day, at home Vacation Bible School will allow children and parents to explore the wonders of God’s creation through arts and crafts, science projects and Christ centered devotions.
Packets of goodies will be available at St. John’s for pick up or delivery to your home. In this packet you will find the materials and instructions for six unique projects, snacks and devotions. Each day, a new video will be posted on Facebook and our website guiding families through the devotion and the craft of the day. Each day, students can send in pictures or videos of their crafts and projects; we’ll feature a few “stars” on our Facebook page each day! Families will also be invited to bring their completed crafts for display at our August 2nd Church Picnic.
Who may participate? The crafts and devotions are aimed at children ages 4 through 10. Of course, younger children will require more help from a parent . Having older siblings help the younger could be a great way to involve the whole family.
The six day, at home Creation Camp runs from July 26 through July 31. Packets can be picked up at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Princeton Thursday, July 23rd or Sunday July 26th. Our volunteers can also deliver them to your home upon request. You will be able to select one of those three options when you register.
Any other questions? Please email sjlcprinceton@gmail.com or call 920-295-4400 While we are saddened that we will not be seeing you at Soccer Camp this summer, we hope that you can participate in this online, at home Vacation Bible School experience.
We prepare ourselves to worship the one Savior God by expressing our humble repentance, offering our fervent prayers and singing our thankful hymns of praise.
Please note: Worship Service Restart Plans (Bulletin pages 21, 22) Worship f.)There will be limited congregational singing and speaking. A cantor will assist with the singing and liturgical responses.
OPENING HYMN O Holy Spirit, Grant Us Grace Christian Worship Supplement #185
Please stand
M: The grace of our Lord ✠ Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you.
C: And also with you.
CONFESSION & ABSOLUTION
When we confess to God that we have failed to live up to the perfect standards in his law, the pastor announces the perfect forgiveness of sins won for us by Jesus.
M: God invites us to come into his presence and worship him with humble and penitent hearts. Therefore, let us acknowledge our sinfulness and ask him to forgive us.
C: Holy and merciful Father, I confess that I am by nature sinful and that I have disobeyed you in my thoughts, words and actions. I have done what is evil and failed to do what is good. For this I deserve your punishment both now and in eternity. But I am truly sorry for my sins and trusting in my Savior Jesus Christ, I pray: Lord, have mercy on me, a sinner.
M: God, our heavenly Father, has been merciful to us and has given his only Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins. Therefore, as a called servant of Christ and by his authority, I forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father and of the Son ✠ and of the Holy Spirit.
C: Amen.
LORD, HAVE MERCY
The Church brings her concerns and prayers to a loving Father in heaven, who has shown great mercy to us and promised to hear our ardent cries for help.
M: For all that we need in life and for the wisdom to use all your gifts with gratitude and joy, hear our prayer, O Lord.
M: For the steadfast assurance that nothing can separate us from your love and for the courage to stand firm against the assaults of Satan and every evil, hear our prayer, O Christ.
M: For the well-being of your holy Church in all the world and for those who offer here their worship and praise, hear our prayer, O Lord.
M: Merciful God, maker and preserver of life, uphold us by your power and keep us in your tender care:
M: The works of the Lord are great and glorious, his name is worthy of praise.
O LORD, OUR LORD
This song of praise reminds us of the wonderful things God has done for us, not the least of which is the salvation he gives through Jesus Christ.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
M: Let us pray.
O God, you have prepared joys beyond understanding for those who love you. Pour into our hearts such love for you that, loving you above all things, we may obtain your promises, which exceed all that we can desire; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Please be seated for the day’s Scripture readings
✠T H E W O R D✠
The Lord Jesus speaks to us in Scripture reading, preaching and song.
FIRST READING Jeremiah 28:5-9
Summary: Following Christ means proclaiming the truth
Then the prophet Jeremiah replied to the prophet Hananiah before the priests and all the people who were standing in the house of the LORD. He said, “Amen! May the LORD do so! May the LORD fulfill the words you have prophesied by bringing the articles of the LORD’s house and all the exiles back to this place from Babylon. Nevertheless, listen to what I have to say in your hearing and in the hearing of all the people: From early times the prophets who preceded you and me have prophesied war, disaster and plague against many countries and great kingdoms. But the prophet who prophesies peace will be recognized as one truly sent by the LORD only if his prediction comes true.”
PSALM OF THE DAY 89
The cantor sings refrains. Pastor reads the verses.
I will sing of the LORD’S great love forever;*
I will make your faithfulness known through all generations.
I will declare that your love stands firm forever,*
that you established your faithfulness in heaven itself.
The heavens praise your wonders, O LORD,*
your faithfulness too, in the assembly of the holy ones.
Refrain
O LORD God Almighty, who is like you?*
You are mighty, O LORD, and your faithfulness surrounds you.
Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you,*
who walk in the light of your presence, O LORD.
They rejoice in your name all day long;*
they exult in your righteousness.
Glory be to the Father and to the Son*
and to the Holy Spirit,
as it was in the beginning,*
is now, and will be forever. Amen.
Refrain
SECOND READING Romans 6:1b-11
Summary: Following Christ means dying to sin and living for God
Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.
If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection. For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin—because anyone who has died has been freed from sin.
Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God.
In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.
VERSE OF THE DAY Mark 8:34b
Alleluia. If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up the cross and follow me. Alleluia.
Stand.
GOSPEL READING Matthew 10:34-42 (today’s sermon text)
Summary: Following Christ will bring swords and rewards
“Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to turn “‘a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law—a man’s enemies will be the members of his own household.’
“Anyone who loves his father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves his son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; and anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.
“He who receives you receives me, and he who receives me receives the one who sent me. Anyone who receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and anyone who receives a righteous man because he is a righteous man will receive a righteous man’s reward. And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is my disciple, I tell you the truth, he will certainly not lose his reward.”
Be seated.
HYMN OF THE DAY Come, Follow Me, the Savior Spoke
Christian Worship #453
SERMON Matthew 10: 34-42
“A Realistic Look at a Disciple’s Life”
There probably will be swords
There certainly will be rewards
Stand after the sermon.
NICENE CREED
We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen. We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one being with the Father. Through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation, he came down from heaven, was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the virgin Mary, and became fully human. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate. He suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end. We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who in unity with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. We believe in one holy Christian and apostolic Church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. Amen.
Be seated.
✠ O F F E R I N G S O F G I F T S & P R A Y E R S✠
THE OFFERING
Members of this congregation show their thanks to God for all he has done for them by returning a portion of their income to the Lord. Through these free will offerings, this congregation and its ministries are maintained. Please deposit your offering on the plate located near the church entry.
PRAYER FOR BEARING THE CROSS AND INTERCESSORY PRAYERS
Read by Pastor. Intercessory Prayers on bulletin page 16.
Stand.
LORD’S PRAYER
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.
✠S E R V I C E O F T H E S A C R A M E N T✠
In this service we celebrate the gift of Jesus’ redeeming love, we bear witness to the Christian fellowship we share, and we proclaim his death until he returns.
PREFACE
M: The Lord be with you.
M: Lift up your hearts.
M: Let us give thanks to the Lord, our God.
M: Praise to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In love he has blessed us with every spiritual blessing.
SEASONAL SENTENCE
M: He sends the Holy Spirit to testify that we are his children and to strengthen us when we are weak.
Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ. To him who sites on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and thanks and honor and glory fore ever and ever.
HOLY, HOLY, HOLY
WORDS OF INSTITUTION
M: Our Lord Jesus Christ, on the night he was betrayed, took bread; and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body, which is given for you. Do this is remembrance of me.”
M: Then he took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you; this is my blood of the new covenant, which is poured out for you for the forgiveness of sins. Do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.”
M: The peace of the Lord be with you always.
O CHRIST, LAMB OF GOD
Please be seated for the distribution
At St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church we practice closed Communion. If you are a guest at worship today and interested in receiving the Lord’s Supper, please speak with the pastor prior to the service.
Please stand.
THANK THE LORD
M: Hear the prayer of your people, O Lord, that the lips which have praised you here may glorify you in the world, that the eyes which have seen the coming of your Son may long for his coming again, and that all who have received in his true body and blood the pledge of your forgiveness may be restored to live a new and holy life, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
BLESSING
M: Brothers and sisters, go in peace. Live in harmony with one another. Serve the Lord with gladness.
The Lord bless you and keep you.
The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you.
The Lord look on you with favor and ✠ give you peace.
Be seated.
CLOSING HYMN Let Us Ever Walk with Jesus
Christian Worship Supplement #452
Announcements
Next week’s theme July 19, 2020 7th Sunday after Pentecost:
“The Costs & Rewards of Discipleship”
Our Life of Discipleship Depends
On Carrying Crosses
The Sixth Sunday after Pentecost – A
God’s Word for Today
Being a Christian is painful. Being a Christian means that there will be crosses to bear. St. Peter once wrote that Christians are called to suffering, “because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps” (1 Pe 2:21). Jesus clearly states in the Gospel that anyone who is not willing to take up their cross and follow him cannot be his disciple. Are you ready to be his disciple? If you are, recognize that our life of discipleship depends on carrying crosses.
First Lesson (Jeremiah 28:5-9)
What was Jeremiah predicting about the city of Jerusalem?
What did the prophet Hananiah predict about the same city?
Second Lesson (Romans 6:1b-11)
How does St. Paul say we should regard our baptism?
Since baptism means the death of our sinful flesh in this world, what can we expect from our lives in this world?
Gospel (Matthew 10:34-42)
What does Jesus mean: he came to bring a sword?
Why does Jesus speak such thorny words in these verses?
Answers:
Jeremiah had long predicted that the city of Jerusalem would face war, disaster and plague because of their rebellion against the Lord. He said that there would be crosses to bear for God’s people.
Hananiah was predicting, contrary to the prophets of the Lord, that Jerusalem would soon enjoy times of peace and prosperity. His message, of course, was popular among the people of Jerusalem.
Paul says that we should understand our baptism as being buried with Christ. Our sinful flesh has been crucified with him.
There will be many painful experiences as we continue to battle our sinful flesh and daily crucify it with a life of repentance.
Jesus wants us to realize that he is a divisive figure. People argue about who Jesus is and what he came to do. While many people in this world suggest that there is more than one way to God, Jesus is unequivocal: “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except by me” (Jn 14:6). As a result, one can either be for Jesus or against him. There is no middle ground.
He wants us to realize the cost of discipleship and to make an informed decision before we become one of his disciples. The life of discipleship is not an easy one. There are crosses are to bear.
Tuesday night’s storm dropped trees on Conner Brumm‘s house and truck, while also damaging multiple buildings on his property. A team is being coordinated from St. Andrew Lutheran Church to go help them with the clean-up on Saturday in Westfield, WI, north of Portage. If you are able to participate message us for details.
If you know of people in the Westfield area that might be able to help as well please spread the word.
“If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, pray, seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear and forgive their sin and heal their land.”—God
2 Chronicles 7:14
Sunday, July 5, 2020
8 a.m. St. John’s
10 a.m. Emmanuel
Pastor Peter Zietlow
From Sea to Shining Sea—Independence Day Worship
Pastor’s Greeting
The liturgy is read responsively by the pastor and the congregation, interspersed with verses of the hymn “America the Beautiful” sung by soloist.
O beautiful for spacious skies, for amber waves of grain, For purple mountain majesties above the fruited plain! America! America! God shed his grace on thee
And crown thy good with brotherhood from sea to shining sea!
P: From east to west, you have blessed us, Lord God Almighty.
C: From fields ripe for harvest, from business and industry creating products to make our lives better, to the natural beauty of animals and plants, fish and fowl, lakes and streams, thank you for your many gifts to our nation in land and sea and sky.
P: For the blessings that span our nation from sea to shining sea,
C: We give you thanks and praise.
P: For the rights we share as citizens in this land and especially for the freedom we have to worship and speak of our faith in you,
C: Lord God, we praise and glorify you!
O beautiful for pilgrim feet whose stern impassioned stress
A thoroughfare for freedom beat across the wilderness!
America! America! God mend thine ev’ry flaw,
Confirm thy soul in self-control, thy liberty in law!
P: From north to south, you have gathered people to live united in these states,
C: We thank you for our government leaders and for all those who guard our cities and keep us safe.
P: We pray for our armed forces at home and across the sea, for those who protect our nation and keep our country strong.
C: We thank you for their sacrifice and for all those who work tirelessly to preserve us as a people.
O beautiful for heroes proved in liberating strife.
Who more than self their country loved and mercy more than life!
America! America! May God thy gold refine
‘Til all success be nobleness and ev’ry gain divine!
Confession and Absolution
P: God said, “If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, pray, seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear and forgive their sin and heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14
C: Merciful God, we humbly confess that we have not loved you with all our heart and mind and strength, and that we have not loved our neighbors as Christ loves them and us. We have resisted your Spirit and gone our own ways. Have mercy on us for not always obeying the laws of the land. Pardon us for not honoring all those in authority over us as you have commanded. Forgive what we have been and help us to change what we are. Amen
P: It is my privilege as a called and ordained servant of the Word to announce the grace of God to all of you. As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed your sins from you. Therefore, in the stead and by the command of my Lord Jesus Christ, I forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. And all God’s people say,
C: Amen.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, keep this nation under your care. Bless the leaders of our land that we may be people at peace among ourselves and a blessing to other nations of the earth. Help us elect trustworthy leaders, contribute to wise decisions for the general welfare, and serve you faithfully in our generation to the honor of your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
C: Amen
First Lesson, Genesis 1:6-10
And God said, “Let there be an expanse between the waters to separate water from water.” So God made the expanse and separated the water under the expanse from the water above it. And it was so. God called the expanse “sky.” And there was evening, and there was morning—the second day. And God said, “Let the water under the sky be gathered to one place, and let dry ground appear.” And it was so. God called the dry ground “land,” and the gathered waters he called “seas.” And God saw that it was good.
Psalm 33 Responsory
P: By the word of the LORD were the heavens made,
C: their starry host by the breath of his mouth.
P: He gathers the waters of the sea into jars;
C: he puts the deep into storehouses.
P: Let all the earth fear the LORD;
C: let all the people of the world revere him.
P: For he spoke, and it came to be;
C: he commanded, and it stood firm.
P: But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever,
C: the purposes of his heart through all generations.
P: Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD,
C: the people he chose for his inheritance!
Second Lesson, Romans 13:1-7
Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. For he is God’s servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God’s servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.
Verse of the Day
Alleluia. Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people. Alleluia. Proverbs 14:34
You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
The Sermon Hymn: 755 from CW Supplement
Your Kingdom, O God, verses 1-3
Your kingdom, O God, is my glorious treasure,
My pearl of incomp’rable worth.
Its value exceeds ev’ry standard of measure,
Surpassing the wealth of the earth.
Lord, give me your grace and the pow’r of the Spirit
To value this treasure aright.
That never allured by the world, I inherit
Your kingdom of glory and light.
Your kingdom, O God is alive with the power
Your Word and your Spirit bestow.
Like yeast, they affect the whole measure of flour,
Enabling your kingdom to grow.
Empower me, Lord, as I live your commission,
Though humble my service may be,
And bring ev’ry planting to perfect fruition,
A mustard seed grown to a tree.
Your kingdom, O God is a field for the growing
Of seeds that your mercy has sown,
But still in our midst is the enemy sowing
The weeds that imperil your own.
Sustain me, O Lord, till your day of returning
And harvest me homeward at last,
To shine in the homeland that quiets all yearning,
Where sorrow and danger are past.
The Sermon: Guest Preacher–Seminary student Justin Digman
“Illogical Forgiveness”
Limited Forgiveness
Limitless Forgiveness
Matthew 18:21-35
21 Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?”
22 Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.
23 “Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. 24 As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand bags of gold was brought to him. 25 Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt.
26 “At this the servant fell on his knees before him. ‘Be patient with me,’ he begged, ‘and I will pay back everything.’ 27 The servant’s master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go.
28 “But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred silver coins. He grabbed him and began to choke him. ‘Pay back what you owe me!’ he demanded.
29 “His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it back.’
30 “But he refused. Instead, he went off and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay the debt. 31 When the other servants saw what had happened, they were outraged and went and told their master everything that had happened.
32 “Then the master called the servant in. ‘You wicked servant,’ he said, ‘I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. 33 Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’ 34 In anger his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed.
35 “This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.”
The Offering.
Prayer
P: Almighty God, You have provided this nation with forefathers who had vision, wisdom, patience, faith and courage. For the blessings of this firm foundation we praise you, Lord. Likewise, you have built your Church upon the firm foundation of your Living Word. Continue to lead your children to search and study the Scriptures that we may be one in heart and mind, and that we may be strong against any attacks of the evil one. Bless our nation with wise leadership, justice, plenty and peace. On this day of independence, free all who mourn from their sorrow and comfort them with the strong hope of resurrection from the dead. Lead your people in paths of righteousness for your names’ sake. Amen
Intercessory Prayer
These things we pray according to your gracious will in the name of Jesus, our Lord. And we also pray together the prayer he taught us:
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us: and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. for thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen
Benediction
P: The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you. The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.
All: Amen
Recognition of all veterans present. Please rise and state your name. We thank you for your service.
God bless our native land; firm may she ever stand
Through storm and night!
When the wild tempests rave, Ruler of wind and wave, Do thou our country save by thy great might.
For her our prayers shall rise to God above the skies;
On him we wait.
Thou who art ever nigh, guarding with watchful eye,
To thee aloud we cry, God save the state!
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Theme for next Sunday July 12, 2020
The 6th Sunday after Pentecost:
“The Costs & Rewards of Discipleship”
Intercessory Prayers (read by pastor)
– For those hospitalized, ill, shut-in and facing trials: Jim & Caryl Bassett, Wyatt Beahm (William and Alyssa Beahm’s infant son), David Broderick, Gene & Sharon Crook, Liola Crown, Agnes Dassow, Don Ebert, Reinold Eckelberg, Lilah Farrell, Roger Hillmer, Jerry & Darlene Hunter (Bonnie Chapman’s parents), Xzander Jahr, Betty Kozlowski, Chris Krause (Gordy and Linda’s son), Robert Lederer (Jackie and Jeanne Buchholz’ father), Lilly Mann, Dawn Marcelain, Delvin Mittelsteadt, Steve Parrish, Valerie Pepin, Karen Radke, LuAnn Reber, Doris Smith, Amanda Stalker, Jennifer Strauss, Leevi Walker, Tenley Zuehls – (added this week: Mitch Simon)
July Ladies Aid Meeting The July Ladies Aid meeting has been canceled.
Voter Meeting July 19th at 11:00am following the limited St. John’s service.
Welcome Card Shower for Ms. Katlynn Tindall Located in our link way at St. John’s is a “Welcome Card Shower” station. Please send your welcome to Ms. Tindall and shower her with love as she settles with us. If you are attending our limited church services, be sure to drop by or you can send a card to the office at 313 E Montello St. Montello, WI 53949 and it will be delivered.
We prepare ourselves to worship the one Savior God by expressing our humble repentance, offering our fervent prayers and singing our thankful hymns of praise.
Please note: Worship Service Restart Plans (Bulletin pages 21, 22) Worship f.)There will be limited congregational singing and speaking. A cantor will assist with the singing and liturgical responses.
OPENING HYMN Come, Let Us Join Our Cheerful SongsChristian Worship #227
Please stand
M: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
CONFESSION & ABSOLUTION
When we confess to God that we have failed to live up to the perfect standards in his law, the pastor announces the perfect forgiveness of sins won for us by Jesus.
M: Beloved in the Lord: let us draw near with a true heart and confess our sins to God our Father, asking him in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to grant us 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.
LORD, HAVE MERCY
The Church brings her concerns and prayers to a loving Father in heaven, who has shown great mercy to us and promised to hear our ardent cries for help.
M: God, our heavenly Father, has been merciful to us and has given his only Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins. Therefore, as a called servant of Christ and by his authority, I forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father and of the Son ✠ and of the Holy Spirit.
GLORY BE TO GOD
This song of praise reminds us of the wonderful things God has done for us, not the least of which is the salvation he gives through Jesus Christ.
M: In the peace of forgiveness, let us praise the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
M: The Lord be with you.
M: Let us pray.
O God, protector of all the faithful, you alone make strong; you alone make holy. Show us your mercy and forgive our sins day by day. Guide us through our earthly lives that we do not lose the things you have prepared for us in heaven; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Please be seated for the day’s Scripture readings
✠T H E W O R D✠
The Lord Jesus speaks to us in Scripture reading, preaching and song.
FIRST READING Exodus 19:2-8a
Summary: God sets apart His people to be a kingdom of priests
After they set out from Rephidim, they entered the Desert of Sinai, and Israel camped there in the desert in front of the mountain.
Then Moses went up to God, and the LORD called to him from the mountain and said, “This is what you are to say to the house of Jacob and what you are to tell the people of Israel: ‘You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself. Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words you are to speak to the Israelites.”
So Moses went back and summoned the elders of the people and set before them all the words the LORD had commanded him to speak. The people all responded together, “We will do everything the LORD has said.”
PSALM OF THE DAY 100
The cantor sings refrains. Pastor reads the verses.
Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.*
Worship the LORD with gladness;
come before him with joyful songs.*
Know that the LORD is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his;*
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
Refrain
Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;*
give thanks to him and praise his name.
For the LORD is good and his love endures forever;*
his faithfulness continues through all generations.
Glory be to the Father and to the Son
and to the Holy Spirit,
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and will be forever. Amen.
Refrain
SECOND READING Romans 5:6-11
Summary: Christ died for us in order to reconcile us to God
You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! For if, when we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.
VERSE OF THE DAY Psalm 132:9
Alleluia. May your priests be clothed with righteousness; may your saints sing for joy. Alleluia.
Stand.
GOSPEL READING Matthew 9:35–10:8 (today’s sermon text)
Summary: Jesus sends out the Twelve to bring back the lost sheep of Israel
Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”
He called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out evil spirits and to heal every disease and sickness.
These are the names of the twelve apostles: first, Simon (who is called Peter) and his brother Andrew; James son of Zebedee, and his brother John; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.
These twelve Jesus sent out with the following instructions: “Do not go among the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans. Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel. As you go, preach this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven is near.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy,drive out demons. Freely you have received, freely give.
NICENE CREED
We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen.
We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one being with the Father. Through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation, he came down from heaven, was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the virgin Mary, and became fully human. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate. He suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end.
We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who in unity with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets.
We believe in one holy Christian and apostolic Church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. Amen.
Be seated.
HYMN OF THE DAY Spread, Oh, Spread the Mighty Word
Christian Worship #576
SERMON Matthew 9:35-10:8
“Communicate Christ-like Compassion”
1. Who?
2. To whom?
3. What?
4. How?
5. Why?
Stand after the sermon.
CREATE IN ME
Be seated.
✠ O F F E R I N G S O F G I F T S & P R A Y E R S✠
THE OFFERING
Members of this congregation show their thanks to God for all he has done for them by returning a portion of their income to the Lord. Through these free will offerings, this congregation and its ministries are maintained. Please deposit your offering on the plate located near the church entry.
PRAYERS
The Offering Prayer, A Prayer for Us to See People Through Jesus’ Eyes and for Courage to Share the Gospel and Intercessory Prayers are spoken by pastor. Please see announcements on page 16 for those on our Intercessory Prayers list.
Stand.
LORD’S PRAYER
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.
✠S E R V I C E O F T H E S A C R A M E N T✠
In this service we celebrate the gift of Jesus’ redeeming love, we bear witness to the Christian fellowship we share, and we proclaim his death until he returns.
PREFACE
M: The Lord be with you.
M: Lift up your hearts.
M: Let us give thanks to the Lord, our God.
M: It is truly good and right that we should at all times and in all places give you thanks, O Lord, holy Father, almighty and everlasting God, through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Who promised that wherever two or three come together in his name, there he is with them to shepherd his flock till he comes again in glory.
Therefore, with all the saints on earth and hosts of heaven, we praise your holy name and join their glorious song:
HOLY, HOLY, HOLY
WORDS OF INSTITUTION
M: Our Lord Jesus Christ, on the night he was betrayed, took bread; and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body, which is given for you. Do this is remembrance of me.”
M: Then he took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you; this is my blood of the new covenant, which is poured our for you for the forgiveness of sins. Do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.”
M: The peace of the Lord be with you always.
O CHRIST, LAMB OF GOD
Please be seated for the distribution
At St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church we practice closed Communion. If you are a guest at worship today and interested in receiving the Lord’s Supper, please speak with the pastor prior to the service. The Joint Worship Committee has recommended that communion be served on the 2nd & 4th Sundays of the month at both Emmanuel and St. John’s and also on the Wednesdays at St. John’s following those Sunday services. Private communion may also be scheduled with Pastor Zietlow.
THANKSGIVING
Please stand.
SONG OF SIMEON
M: O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.
M: We give thanks, almighty God, that you have refreshed us with this holy supper. We pray that through it you will strengthen our faith in you and increase our love for one another. We as this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
BLESSING
The Lord bless you and keep you.
The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you.
The Lord look on you with favor and ✠ give you peace.
Be seated.
CLOSING HYMN O Christ, Who Called the Twelve
Christian Worship Supplement #770
Announcements
Next week’s theme July 5, 2020 5th Sunday after Pentecost & Independence Day:
Special service with guest preacher & seminary student, Justin Digman (Pastor Z’s son-in-law) “Confessing Christ is Spite of Opposition”
KATLYNN TINDALL ACCEPTANCE LETTER
Dear Members of St. John’s Lutheran Church and School,
On May 16, I received the divine call extended to me through the WELS Assignment Committee to serve as your 3rd-5th grade teacher.
I am really looking forward to this wonderful opportunity to serve the congregation, school and most importantly our God. Thank you very much for your thoughts and prayers. I look forward to meeting all of you. God’s Blessings.
In Christ,
Katlynn Tindall
“Hello! My name is Katlynn Tindall. I grew up in Waukesha, WI and graduated from WISCO in 2014. I attended MLC and graduated in December 2018. Upon graduation I taught grade 2 at Trinity in Brillion for a semester. Then I was assigned grades 2-4 at Zion in Toledo, OH. For fun I enjoy baking, drinking coffee, game nights, outdoor activities and spending time with family and friends. I am excited to meet all of you and continue sharing Jesus’ love to the students at St. Johns!”
CONTACT INFORMATION
Katlynn Tindall
Send a card, call, text or e-mail your words of encouragement!
What is the primary work of the Christian church? Surprisingly, many people answer that question in different ways. Some suggest that the primary work of the church is to feed the hungry and shelter the homeless. Some say that the church is to work for overall social justice. Others think that the church’s job is to reform and restore the moral fiber of our world. Those are perhaps all worthy tasks, but there really shouldn’t be any debate about the church’s primary task because Jesus tells us what it is: Preach the gospel of forgiveness! (Mk 16:15) That’s our work and our privilege!
First Lesson (Exodus 19:2-8a)
What is a covenant? (verse 5)
How would God view his Old Testament people if they obeyed his Word?
What is a priest?
Second Lesson (Romans 5:6-11)
How did God demonstrate his love for all people?
What does it mean for us to be reconciled to God?
Gospel (Matthew 9:35 – 10:8)
Why did Jesus show compassion toward the crowds?
What is an apostle?
Answers:
A covenant is an agreement. God is here establishing a covenant with his people: obey me fully and you will be my treasured possession. This is a two-sided covenant. God’s covenant with us is one-sided (cf. Jer 31:31-34).
They would be for him a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.
The Scriptural job description of a priest is to be a go-between or mediator between God and human beings. In particular, he offered sacrifices for the sins of the peo-ple. God commanded that there be such priests in Old Testament times from the tribe of Levi. But in the New Testament there is no longer any need for such priests because through the sacrifice of Jesus, our great High Priest (Heb 7:26-28), we have all become priests of God (1 Pe 2:4-10), offering up our own spiritual sacrifices.
Jesus died for us while we were still sinners, his enemies. God’s love is unconditional! He didn’t wait for us to love him first.
To be reconciled with God means that all people were estranged or separated from him at one time because of our sinfulness, but now Jesus has washed our sinfulness away with his sacrifice on the cross. All people are now reconciled to God, and as Christians we share that message of reconciliation with others who don’t realize or believe it (2 Co 5:18-21).
Because they were like sheep without a shepherd.
An apostle is one who is “sent out” to proclaim the gospel. The twelve apostles had a special call from Jesus to proclaim the gospel without boundaries. In a very real sense, though, we are also “apostles” whenever we proclaim the gospel.
Emmanuel & St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Churches Mecan & Montello, WI
✠P R E P A R A T I O N F O R W O R S H I P✠
We prepare ourselves to worship the one Savior God by expressing our humble repentance, offering our fervent prayers and singing our thankful hymns of praise.
Please note: Worship Service Restart Plans (Bulletin pages 21, 22) Worship f.)There will be limited congregational singing and speaking. A cantor will assist with the singing and liturgical responses.
OPENING HYMNBlessed Jesus, at Your WordSolo sung by cantor.Christian Worship #221 v. 1,2,3,4
✠G A T H E R I N G R I T E O N T H E W O R D O F G O D✠
God’s people long ago gather together for strength from God and for mutual encouragement. This alternate beginning for worship may be used on any occasion to remind God’s people of the blessings of his Word.
Please stand.
M: In the name of the Father and of the Son ✠ and of the Holy Spirit.
C: (spoken) Amen.
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!
M: All scripture is God- breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,
C:so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.2 Tim. 3:16,17
M: Yes 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.
M: God gave his Word so ”that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name” (John 20:31). The Scriptures testify about Jesus, who lived a perfect life for you, died on the cross to pay for all your sins, and rose again to assure you of your salvation. Therefore, as a called servant of Christ and by his authority, I forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father and of the Son ✠ and of the Holy Spirit.
C:(spoken) Amen.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
M: Let us pray.
O God, the strength of all who trust in you, mercifully hear our prayers. Be gracious to us in our weakness and give us strength to keep your commandments in all we say and do; through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
C:(spoken) Amen.
Be seated.
✠S E R V I C E O F T H E W O R D✠
This service offers the congregation a form of worship that focuses on the proclamation of God’s Word. Believers respond to this divine gift with prayer, praise, and thanksgiving.
FIRST LESSON Hosea 5:15–6:6
Summary: God desires mercy, not sacrifice
Then I will go back to my place until they admit their guilt. And they will seek my face; in their misery they will earnestly seek me.”
“Come, let us return to the LORD. He has torn us to pieces but he will heal us; he has injured us but he will bind up our wounds. After two days he will revive us; on the third day he will restore us, that we may live in his presence. Let us acknowledge the LORD; let us press on to acknowledge him. As surely as the sun rises, he will appear; he will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth.”
“What can I do with you, Ephraim? What can I do with you, Judah? Your love is like the morning mist, like the early dew that disappears. Therefore I cut you in pieces with my prophets, I killed you with the words of my mouth; my judgments flashed like lightning upon you. For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings.
PSALM 119c
Refrains sung by cantor, pastor reads verses.
Oh, how I love your law!
I meditate on it all day long.
I have more insight than all my teachers,
for I meditate on your statutes.
I have more understanding than the elders,
for I obey your precepts.
Refrain
I have kept my feet from every evil path
so that I might obey your Word.
I have not departed from your laws,
for you yourself have taught me.
How sweet are your words to my taste,
sweeter than honey to my mouth!
Glory be to the Father and to the Son
and to the Holy Spirit,
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and will be forever. Amen.
Refrain
EPISTLE LESSON Romans 4:18-25
Summary: God credits faith in the Savior to us as righteousness
Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” {Gen. 15:5} Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead– since he was about a hundred years old– and that Sarah’s womb was also dead. Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised. This is why “it was credited to him as righteousness.” The words “it was credited to him” were written not for him alone, but also for us, to whom God will credit righteousness– for us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.
VERSE OF THE DAY 2 Corinthians 5:19
M: Alleluia. God was in Christ reconciling the world himself, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Alleluia.
Stand.
GOSPEL LESSON Matthew 9:9-13 (today’s sermon text)
Summary: The calling of Matthew
As Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector’s booth. “Follow me,” he told him, and Matthew got up and followed him. While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew’s house, many tax collectors and “sinners” came and ate with him and his disciples. When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and `sinners’?” On hearing this, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: `I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ {Hosea 6:6} For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”
Be seated.
HYMN OF THE DAY Let Me Be Yours Forever
Christian Worship #596
SERMONMatthew 9:9-13
“Follow Me!”
An invitation meant for those only sick with sin
A call meant only for those saved from sin
Stand.
APOSTLES’ CREED
Sung to tune of CW 486 “Lord of Glory, You Have Bought Us”
I believe in God the Father, Maker of the heav’n and earth. And in Jesus Christ, our Savior, God’s own Son of human birth. Virgin-born, the Lord incarnate, whom the Spirit did conceive; Suffered under Pontius Pilate; he’s the God whom I believe.
Crucified, was dead and buried, down to hell in victory, From the dead he rose the third day; up to heav’n triumphantly. There at God’s right hand he’s ruling, by his will the world is led. He will come to judge the nations, both the living and the dead.
I believe in God the Spirit, in his Church, his chosen band. They are joined in sweet communion, holy in his sight they stand. I believe in sins forgiven; I believe I’ll rise again; I believe in life eternal. Amen, Amen, Amen.
Be seated.
✠ O F F E R I N G S O F G I F T S & P R A Y E R S✠
THE OFFERING
Members of this congregation show their thanks to God for all he has done for them by returning a portion of their income to the Lord. Through these free will offerings, this congregation and its ministries are maintained. Please deposit your offering on the plate located near the church entry.
MISSION OF THE CHURCH PRAYER
M: Eternal God and Father, we give you thanks for the blessings we share as members of your holy Church, for your gracious Word and sacraments, for opportunities to worship and to grow in faith and knowledge, for occasions to serve and be served, for fellowship with believers in our congregation and in our synod.
C:Help us to rejoice in these blessings, dear Lord, and to use them faithfully.
M: Jesus Christ, Lord of the Church, you give grace to your people by calling us to be your witnesses in the world. Open our eyes to see the great and noble mission that lies before us. In the hurting eyes of the lonely, in the pained eyes of the sick, and in the searching eyes of the lost, help us to see your face, O Jesus, and to serve others as we would serve you.
C:Awaken us to the opportunities you give to proclaim your message of love.
M: Holy Spirit, giver of life, through Word and sacrament bestow on us the wisdom and power we need to witness clearly and to act boldly. Help us to speak the truth in love, to give the reason for the hope we have, and to conduct ourselves with gentleness and respect.
C:Set our hearts on fire as we work and witness for Christ.
M: Hear us, Lord, as we pray for a family member, an acquaintance, a neighbor, or a friend who does not believe in you, or whose faith is weak or troubled.
Silent prayer.
M: Bless the Church with men and women who are willing to proclaim your Word in places where we cannot go. Keep them and their loved ones in your care, and let nothing hinder their work. By the power of the gospel, restore their spirits each day, so that they do not lose heart as they serve us and others.
C:Move us to support them with our sincere prayers and generous offerings.
Special prayers and intercessions may follow.
M: Wherever your Word is proclaimed, O Lord, grant it success. Let your kingdom come to us and others, so that we and many more might join the assembly of saints and angels to sing your praise forever.
C:Savior of all, hear our prayer and help us in our mission. Amen.
LORD’S PRAYER
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.
CLOSING HYMN A Father’s Prayer Is to the One
v. 1,2,3,4
M:Almighty God, we thank you for teaching us the things you want us to believe and do. Help us by your Holy Spirit to keep your Word in pure hearts that we may be strengthened in faith, guided in holiness, and comforted in life and in death, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
M:Brothers and sisters, go in peace. Live in harmony with one another. Serve the Lord with gladness.
The Lord bless you and keep you.
The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you.
The Lord look on you with favor and ✠ give you peace.
CLOSING HYMN A Father’s Prayer Is to the One
v. 5,6,7,8
Annoucements
Next week’s theme June 28, 2020 4th Sunday after Pentecost:
“God Saved Us That We Might Serve Him”
KATLYNN TINDALL ACCEPTANCE LETTER
Dear Members of St. John’s Lutheran Church and School,
On May 16, I received the divine call extended to me through the WELS Assignment Committee to serve as your 3rd-5th grade teacher.
I am really looking forward to this wonderful opportunity to serve the congregation, school and most importantly our God. Thank you very much for your thoughts and prayers. I look forward to meeting all of you. God’s Blessings.
In Christ,
Katlynn Tindall
“Hello! My name is Katlynn Tindall. I grew up in Waukesha, WI and graduated from WISCO in 2014. I attended MLC and graduated in December 2018. Upon graduation I taught grade 2 at Trinity in Brillion for a semester. Then I was assigned grades 2-4 at Zion in Toledo, OH. For fun I enjoy baking, drinking coffee, game nights, outdoor activities and spending time with family and friends. I am excited to meet all of you and continue sharing Jesus’ love to the students at St. Johns!”
CONTACT INFORMATION
Katlynn Tindall
Send a card, call, text or e-mail your words of encouragement!
Trusting people isn’t easy, because people tend to let us down when we’re depending on them. It’s also hard to confess our sinfulness to others because we’re afraid that those people will use our sins and mistakes against us and hold a grudge. We shouldn’t have the same concerns with our Savior! Jesus is totally reliable, entirely trustworthy. He keeps his promises! Most of all, he keeps his promise of forgiveness through the gospel. We can confidently confess our sin to him, knowing that in him we have certain forgiveness and eternal life.
First Lesson (Hosea 5:15 – 6:6)
What did the Lord want his Old Testament people to do?
Why can we confidently acknowledge our sin to the Lord?
Second Lesson (Romans 4:18-25)
What promise of God to Abraham is Paul referring to in these verses?
True or false: Abraham simply ignored the physical evidence which suggested that there was no way he and his wife could have a child.
Upon what did Abraham base his faith?
Gospel (Matthew 9:9-13)
Why were Jesus’ actions so repulsive to the Pharisees?
What did Jesus want the Pharisees to learn?
Answers:
He wanted them to confess their sins.
Because he promised us that he will heal us and bind up our wound, that we may live in his presence.
God promised Abraham a son in his old age.
False. Paul says that Abraham indeed “faced the fact that his body was as good as dead … and that Sarah’s womb was also dead.” Despite this evidence, however, Abraham “against all hope … in hope believed” God’s promise.
Abraham was “fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised.”
They couldn’t believe that Jesus would eat with tax collectors and sinners. Neither could they believe that Jesus would call a tax collector to be his disciple.
He wanted them to learn what the Lord meant through the prophet Hosea when he said: “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” Jesus’ meaning is this: God has been merciful and forgiving to us, and he wants us to be merciful and forgiving toward one another. Jesus was showing mercy to these “sinners,” something the Pharisees didn’t want to do.
We prepare ourselves to worship the one Savior God by expressing our humble repentance, offering our fervent prayers and singing our thankful hymns of praise.
Please note: Worship Service Restart Plans (Bulletin pages 21, 22) Worship f.)There will be limited congregational singing and speaking. A cantor will assist with the singing and liturgical responses.
OPENING HYMN Speak, O LordSolo sung by cantor.Christian Worship Supplement #735
Please stand
M: The grace of our Lord ✠ Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you.
C: And also with you.
CONFESSION & ABSOLUTION
When we confess to God that we have failed to live up to the perfect standards in his law, the pastor announces the perfect forgiveness of sins won for us by Jesus.
M: God invites us to come into his presence and worship him with humble and penitent hearts. Therefore, let us acknowledge our sinfulness and ask him to forgive us.
C: Holy and merciful Father, I confess that I am by nature sinful and that I have disobeyed you in my thoughts, words and actions. I have done what is evil and failed to do what is good. For this I deserve your punishment both now and in eternity. But I am truly sorry for my sins and trusting in my Savior Jesus Christ, I pray: Lord, have mercy on me, a sinner.
M: God, our heavenly Father, has been merciful to us and has given his only Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins. Therefore, as a called servant of Christ and by his authority, I forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father and of the Son ✠ and of the Holy Spirit.
C: Amen.
LORD, HAVE MERCY
The Church brings her concerns and prayers to a loving Father in heaven, who has shown great mercy to us and promised to hear our ardent cries for help.
M: For all that we need in life and for the wisdom to use all your gifts with gratitude and joy, hear our prayer, O Lord.
M: For the steadfast assurance that nothing can separate us from your love and for the courage to stand firm against the assaults of Satan and every evil, hear our prayer, O Christ.
M: For the well-being of your holy Church in all the world and for those who offer here their worship and praise, hear our prayer, O Lord.
M: Merciful God, maker and preserver of life, uphold us by your power and keep us in your tender care:
M: The works of the Lord are great and glorious, his name is worthy of praise.
O LORD, OUR LORD
This song of praise reminds us of the wonderful things God has done for us, not the least of which is the salvation he gives through Jesus Christ.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
M: Let us pray.
O God, you rule over all things in wisdom and kindness. Take away everything that may be harmful and give us whatever is good; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Please be seated for the day’s Scripture readings
✠T H E W O R D✠
The Lord Jesus speaks to us in Scripture reading, preaching and song.
FIRST READING Deuteronomy 11:18-21,26-28
Summary: God wants His people to remember His words and be blessed
Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Write them on the door frames of your houses and on your gates, so that your days and the days of your children may be many in the land that the LORD swore to give your forefathers, as many as the days that the heavens are above the earth.
See, I am setting before you today a blessing and a curse—the blessing if you obey the commands of the LORD your God that I am giving you today; the curse if you disobey the commands of the LORD your God and turn from the way that I command you today by following other gods, which you have not known.
PSALM OF THE DAY 78
The cantor sings refrains. Pastor reads the verses.
O my people, hear my teaching;
listen to the words of my mouth.
I will utter things from old,
what we have heard and what our fathers have told us.
We will not hide them from our children;
we will tell the next generation
the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord.
Refrain
The Lord decreed statutes for Jacob
an established the law in Israel,
So the next generation would know them,
and they in turn would tell their children.
Then they would put their trust in God
and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands.
Glory be to the Father and to the Son
and to the Holy Spirit,
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and will be forever. Amen.
Refrain
SECOND READING Romans 3:21-25a,27-28 (today’s sermon text)
Summary: We are justified by faith, not by works–the core teaching of the Word of God
But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.
Where, then, is boasting? It is excluded. On what principle? On that of observing the law? No, but on that of faith. For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from observing the law.
VERSE OF THE DAY Psalm 119: 105
Alleluia. Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. Alleluia.
Stand.
GOSPEL READING Matthew 7:15-29
Summary: Only he who does the will of God will enter heaven
“Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thorn bushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.
“Not everyone who says to me, `Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, `Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, `I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’
“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”
When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law.
Be seated.
HYMN OF THE DAY Chief of Sinners Though I Be
Christian Worship #385
SERMON Romans 3:21-25a,27-28
“Not Guilty A Declaration”
Coming from the Father
Earned by the Son
Given through the Holy Spirit
Stand after the sermon.
NICENE CREED
We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen. We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one being with the Father. Through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation, he came down from heaven, was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the virgin Mary, and became fully human. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate. He suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end. We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who in unity with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. We believe in one holy Christian and apostolic Church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. Amen.
Be seated.
✠ O F F E R I N G S O F G I F T S & P R A Y E R S✠
THE OFFERING
Members of this congregation show their thanks to God for all he has done for them by returning a portion of their income to the Lord. Through these free will offerings, this congregation and its ministries are maintained. Please deposit your offering on the plate located near the church entry.
Stand.
PRAYER OF THE CHURCH
M: Gracious God and Father, we praise you for the countless blessings, which we receive from your hand: the beauties of creation and the bounties of the earth, the joy of life and the pleasure of friendship, the good of work and the gift of rest, the privilege to share happiness and sorrow with one another. Above all we praise and thank you for your saving Word and for your Son’s body and blood, which you give us to eat and to drink in the sacrament. Through these means of grace, you send the Holy Spirit into our hearts and unite us to Jesus and to the whole Christian Church on earth.
C: Strengthen us through this heavenly food; increase our trust in Christ and our love for one another.
M: Great God and Lord, without your continuing help we easily waver in our faith, lose courage, and grow careless in our watchfulness. The times and days are perilous. Give us strength to face the evils of each day with fresh confidence. Open our lips to speak of your grace, and move us to use the gifts that you give us to share your Word of salvation with all people. Protect and prosper the family, the school, the government, and all good institutions that you have established for the benefit of society. Remember in mercy those who are sick and suffering, and bring your healing to troubled homes and lives.
C: Move us to pray for those in need and to help them with deeds of kindness.
M: Hear us, Lord, as we bring you our private petitions.
Silence.
M: Now, eternal God and Father, keep us in the saving faith and so enable us to overcome all things through our Lord Jesus Christ.
LORD’S PRAYER
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.
✠S E R V I C E O F T H E S A C R A M E N T✠
In this service we celebrate the gift of Jesus’ redeeming love, we bear witness to the Christian fellowship we share, and we proclaim his death until he returns.
PREFACE
M: The Lord be with you.
M: Lift up your hearts.
M: Let us give thanks to the Lord, our God.
M: Praise to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In love he has blessed us with every spiritual blessing.
SEASONAL SENTENCE
M: He sends the Holy Spirit to testify that we are his children and to strengthen us when we are weak.
Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ. To him who sites on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and thanks and honor and glory fore ever and ever.
HOLY, HOLY, HOLY
WORDS OF INSTITUTION
M: Our Lord Jesus Christ, on the night he was betrayed, took bread; and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body, which is given for you. Do this is remembrance of me.”
M: Then he took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you; this is my blood of the new covenant, which is poured out for you for the forgiveness of sins. Do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.”
M: The peace of the Lord be with you always.
O CHRIST, LAMB OF GOD
Please be seated for the distribution
At St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church we practice closed Communion. If you are a guest at worship today and interested in receiving the Lord’s Supper, please speak with the pastor prior to the service.
Please stand.
THANK THE LORD
M: Hear the prayer of your people, O Lord, that the lips which have praised you here may glorify you in the world, that the eyes which have seen the coming of your Son may long for his coming again, and that all who have received in his true body and blood the pledge of your forgiveness may be restored to live a new and holy life, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
BLESSING
M: Brothers and sisters, go in peace. Live in harmony with one another. Serve the Lord with gladness.
The Lord bless you and keep you.
The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you.
The Lord look on you with favor and ✠ give you peace.
Be seated.
CLOSING HYMN God’s Word Is Our Great Heritage
Christian Worship Supplement #293
Annoucements
Next week’s theme June 21, 2020 3rd Sunday after Pentecost:
“God’s Heart Full of Mercy Affects the Hearts of Lost Sinners”
KATLYNN TINDALL ACCEPTANCE LETTER
Dear Members of St. John’s Lutheran Church and School,
On May 16, I received the divine call extended to me through the WELS Assignment Committee to serve as your 3rd-5th grade teacher.
I am really looking forward to this wonderful opportunity to serve the congregation, school and most importantly our God. Thank you very much for your thoughts and prayers. I look forward to meeting all of you. God’s Blessings.
In Christ,
Katlynn Tindall
“Hello! My name is Katlynn Tindall. I grew up in Waukesha, WI and graduated from WISCO in 2014. I attended MLC and graduated in December 2018. Upon graduation I taught grade 2 at Trinity in Brillion for a semester. Then I was assigned grades 2-4 at Zion in Toledo, OH. For fun I enjoy baking, drinking coffee, game nights, outdoor activities and spending time with family and friends. I am excited to meet all of you and continue sharing Jesus’ love to the students at St. Johns!”
CONTACT INFORMATION
Katlynn Tindall
Send a card, call, text or e-mail your words of encouragement!
How do things in this world grow? Usually they don’t grow up overnight; it takes lots of patience. We water, fertilize and cultivate. Then we wait. That’s true of the growth that takes place in our Christian lives, too. It doesn’t happen overnight. Instead God waters and fertilizes us through his Word. Slowly but surely through the gospel the Spirit brings forth growth and eventually fruits of faith. The encourage-ment of the Lessons and Gospel today is: Stay connected to God’s Word. The fruits of our faith depend on it!
First Lesson (Deuteronomy 11:18-21, 26-28)
How familiar with his Word does the Lord want us to be?
Why is a familiarity with the Word so important?
What’s consequence of disregarding God’s Word?
Second Lesson (Romans 3:21-25a, 27,28)
What does the word “justified” mean in verse 24?
Who has been justified?
How have we been justified?
Gospel (Matthew 7:15-29)
How will be able to recognize false prophets?
True or false: Everyone who says, “Lord, Lord,” on the Day of Judgment will enter into heaven?
Why were the people amazed at Jesus’ teaching?
Answers:
He wants us to fix his Word in our hearts, minds and heads; for it to become second nature to us.
Only through the Word and sacraments does the Holy Spirit work faith and Christian life (cf. Ro 10:17).
The Lord promises a curse upon those who disregard his Word of promise.
To justify someone means to declare them “not guilty” by judicial act, as when a jury declares a defendant “not guilty.” The defendant is acquitted or justified.
God has declared all people “not guilty.” All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified.
St. Paul uses two similar phrases: “freely” and “by grace.” God didn’t owe us anything. He doesn’t forgive our sins because he has to. He does it without obligation, free of charge, according to his merciful nature because of the sacrifice that Jesus made.
Jesus says that we can recognize them by their fruits.
False. Jesus is interested in more than mere words. He is looking for the natural fruits of faith that the Holy Spirit works in our lives through the gospel.
Because he taught with authority. In other words, he didn’t base his teachings on what someone else had said (like the teachers of the law). Instead, Jesus would say things like: “Truly, truly I say to you …” Jesus can do this because he is God.
We prepare ourselves to worship the one Savior God by expressing our humble repentance, offering our fervent prayers and singing our thankful hymns of praise.
Please note: Worship Service Restart Plans (Bulletin pages 22, 23) Worship f.)There will be limited congregational singing and speaking. A cantor will assist with the singing and liturgical responses.
OPENING HYMN Holy God, We Praise Your NameChristian Worship #278
Please stand
M: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
CONFESSION & ABSOLUTION
When we confess to God that we have failed to live up to the perfect standards in his law, the pastor announces the perfect forgiveness of sins won for us by Jesus.
M: Beloved in the Lord: let us draw near with a true heart and confess our sins to God our Father, asking him in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to grant us 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.
LORD, HAVE MERCY
The Church brings her concerns and prayers to a loving Father in heaven, who has shown great mercy to us and promised to hear our ardent cries for help.
M: God, our heavenly Father, has been merciful to us and has given his only Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins. Therefore, as a called servant of Christ and by his authority, I forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father and of the Son ✠ and of the Holy Spirit.
GLORY BE TO GOD
This song of praise reminds us of the wonderful things God has done for us, not the least of which is the salvation he gives through Jesus Christ.
M: In the peace of forgiveness, les us praise the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE DAY
M: The Lord be with you.
M: Let us pray.
Almighty God and Father, dwelling in majesty and mystery, filling and renewing all creation by your eternal Spirit, and manifesting your saving grace through our Lord Jesus Christ: in mercy cleanse our hearts and lips that, free from doubt and fear, we may ever worship you, one true immortal God, with your Son and the Holy Spirit.
Please be seated for the day’s Scripture readings
✠T H E W O R D✠
The Lord Jesus speaks to us in Scripture reading, preaching and song.
FIRST READING Genesis 1:1-2:3
Summary: The Triune God created the world, including Adam & Eve, in six 24-hour days
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.
And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. God saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness. God called the light “day,” and the darkness he called “night.” And there was evening, and there was morning– the first day.
And God said, “Let there be an expanse between the waters to separate water from water.” So God made the expanse and separated the water under the expanse from the water above it. And it was so. God called the expanse “sky.” And there was evening, and there was morning– the second day.
And God said, “Let the water under the sky be gathered to one place, and let dry ground appear.” And it was so. God called the dry ground “land,” and the gathered waters he called “seas.” And God saw that it was good.
Then God said, “Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds.” And it was so. The land produced vegetation: plants bearing seed according to their kinds and trees bearing fruit with seed in it according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good. And there was evening, and there was morning– the third day.
And God said, “Let there be lights in the expanse of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark seasons and days and years, and let them be lights in the expanse of the sky to give light on the earth.” And it was so. God made two great lights– the greater light to govern the day and the lesser light to govern the night. He also made the stars. God set them in the expanse of the sky to give light on the earth, to govern the day and the night, and to separate light from darkness. And God saw that it was good. And there was evening, and there was morning– the fourth day.
And God said, “Let the water teem with living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth across the expanse of the sky.” So God created the great creatures of the sea and every living and moving thing with which the water teems, according to their kinds, and every winged bird according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. God blessed them and said, “Be fruitful and increase in number and fill the water in the seas, and let the birds increase on the earth.” And there was evening, and there was morning– the fifth day.
And God said, “Let the land produce living creatures according to their kinds: livestock, creatures that move along the ground, and wild animals, each according to its kind.” And it was so. God made the wild animals according to their kinds, the livestock according to their kinds, and all the creatures that move along the ground according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good. Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.”
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and over every living creature that moves on the ground.” Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food. And to all the beasts of the earth and all the birds of the air and all the creatures that move on the ground– everything that has the breath of life in it– I give every green plant for food.” And it was so. God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning– the sixth day. Thus the heavens and the earth were completed in all their vast array.
By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. And God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done.
PSALM OF THE DAY 150
The cantor sings refrains. Pastor reads the verses.
O Lord, open my lips,
And my mouth shall declare your praise.
You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it;
You do not take pleasure in burnt offerings.
The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit;
A broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.
Refrain
Create in me a pure heart, O God,
And renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Do not cast me from your presence
Or take your Holy Spirit from me.
Restore to me the joy of your salvation,
And grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
Then I will teach transgressors your ways,
And sinners will turn back to you.
Glory be to the Father and to the Son
and to the Holy Spirit,
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and will be forever. Amen.
Refrain
SECOND READING 2 Corinthians 13:11-14
Summary: Paul closes his second letter to the Christians in Corinth with the Triune God’s blessing
Finally, brothers, good-by. Aim for perfection, listen to my appeal, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.
Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the saints send their greetings.
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
VERSE OF THE DAY Isaiah 6:3b
Alleluia. Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory. Alleluia.
Stand.
GOSPEL READING Matthew 28:16-20 (today’s sermon text)
Summary: Before ascending to heaven, Jesus both commissions and equips his disciples
Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
NICENE CREED
I believe in God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen. We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father. God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one being with the Father. Through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation, he came down from heaven, was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the virgin Mary, and became fully human. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate. He suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead and his kingdom will have no end. We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds with the Father and the Son, who in unity with the Father and the Son is worshipped and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. We believe in one holy Christian and apostolic Church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead and the light of the world to come. Amen.
Be seated.
HYMN OF THE DAY Come, Now, Almighty King
Christian Worship #193
SERMON Matthew 28:16-20
“We Make Disciples in the Name of the Triune God”
We’ve got God’s…
Message and means
2. Power and presence
Stand after the sermon.
CREATE IN ME
Be seated.
✠ O F F E R I N G S O F G I F T S & P R A Y E R S✠
THE OFFERING
The ushers now gather the “Thank-Offering.” Members of this congregation show their thanks to God for all he has done for them by returning a portion of their income to the Lord. Through these free will offerings, this congregation and its ministries are maintained. Guests need not feel obligated to contribute. Please also sign our Friendship Registers and greet one another.
PRAYERS
The Offering Prayer, Trinity Sunday Prayer and Intercessory Prayers are spoken by pastor. Please see announcements on page 16 for those on our Intercessory Prayers list.
Stand.
LORD’S PRAYER
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.
✠S E R V I C E O F T H E S A C R A M E N T✠
In this service we celebrate the gift of Jesus’ redeeming love, we bear witness to the Christian fellowship we share, and we proclaim his death until he returns.
PREFACE
M: The Lord be with you.
M: Lift up your hearts.
M: Let us give thanks to the Lord, our God.
M: It is truly good and right that we should at all times and in all places give you thanks, O Lord, holy Father, almighty and everlasting God, through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
We now confess that you, with your Son and the Holy Spirit, are one God and one Lord, and we acknowledge you as our Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier.
M: Therefore, with all the saints on earth and hosts of heaven, we praise your holy name and join their glorious song:
HOLY, HOLY, HOLY
WORDS OF INSTITUTION
M: Our Lord Jesus Christ, on the night he was betrayed, took bread; and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take an eat; this is my body, which is given for you. Do this is remembrance of me.”
M: Then he took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you; this is my blood of the new covenant, which is poured our for you for the forgiveness of sins. Do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.”
M: The peace of the Lord be with you always.
O CHRIST, LAMB OF GOD
Please be seated for the distribution
At St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church we practice closed Communion. If you are a guest at worship today and interested in receiving the Lord’s Supper, please speak with the pastor prior to the service.
THANKSGIVING
Please stand.
SONG OF SIMEON
M: O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.
M: We give thanks, almighty God, that you have refreshed us with this holy supper. We pray that through it you will strengthen our faith in you and increase our love for one another. We as this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
BLESSING
M: The Lord bless you and keep you.
The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you.
The Lord look on you with favor and ✠ give you peace.
Be seated.
CLOSING HYMN Father, God of Grace, You Knew Us
Christian Worship Supplement #753
Announcements
Next week’s theme June 14, 2020 2nd Sunday after Pentecost:
“Faithfulness to the Word of God in Doctrine and Practice”
KATLYNN TINDALL ACCEPTANCE LETTER
Dear Members of St. John’s Lutheran Church and School,
On May 16, I received the divine call extended to me through the WELS Assignment Committee to serve as your 3rd-5th grade teacher.
I am really looking forward to this wonderful opportunity to serve the congregation, school and most importantly our God. Thank you very much for your thoughts and prayers. I look forward to meeting all of you. God’s Blessings.
In Christ,
Katlynn Tindall
“Hello! My name is Katlynn Tindall. I grew up in Waukesha, WI and graduated from WISCO in 2014. I attended MLC and graduated in December 2018. Upon graduation I taught grade 2 at Trinity in Brillion for a semester. Then I was assigned grades 2-4 at Zion in Toledo, OH. For fun I enjoy baking, drinking coffee, game nights, outdoor activities and spending time with family and friends. I am excited to meet all of you and continue sharing Jesus’ love to the students at St. Johns!”
CONTACT INFORMATION
Katlynn Tindall
Send a card, call, text or e-mail your words of encouragement!
The First Sunday after Pentecost: Holy Trinity – A
God’s Word for Today
We like to think that we can take care of ourselves. God has given us many talents and gifts so that we can provide for ourselves and our families. And yet we shouldn’t forget that God is the one who ultimately provides all things. Apart from him we can do nothing. If it weren’t for our Triune God – our Creator, Redeemer and Sanctifier – we would be absolutely helpless and hopeless in our lives. Yes, apart from him we wouldn’t even exist. Our entire being depends on the Holy Trinity.
First Lesson (Genesis 1:1 – 2:3)
How did God create most everything in this universe?
hat clue do we get in Genesis 1:26 about God’s unique makeup?
Why is God’s creation of human beings so unique?
Second Lesson (2 Co 13:11-14)
Why are the key words of the apostolic blessing in verse 14 so important to our lives as Christians?
Gospel (Matthew 28:16-20)
According to Jesus’ words, what has been given to him?
How are we to make disciples of Jesus?
What promise does Jesus give his disciples?
Answers:
Almost everything in creation was brought into being simply by God speaking his powerful Word.
He says: “Let us …,” indicating his unique being of being one God yet multiple persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
God created Adam from the earth and breathed the breath of life into Adam. This account shows us how special human beings are in the eyes of God.
The word “grace” reminds us that God loves us because of the type of person he is and not the type of people we are. His “love” is undeserved and unearned; it’s free. And through his love and the working of his Spirit in our hearts and lives, we are brought into “fellowship” with him. Our relationship with God is entirely his doing.
Jesus declares that all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to him. The exalted Jesus, now even according to his human nature, has controls over all things.
Jesus says that we should baptize in the name of the Triune God and teach everything that he has commanded. That’s how disciples (pupils) are made.
He tells us that he will be with us always, even to the end of the age (until he returns again). He gives us a big task – to preach the gospel in all the world – but he also gives us big promises!
Minister: In the name of the Father and of the ✠ Son and of the Holy Spirit.
Congregation:Amen.
I rejoiced with those who said to me,
“Let us go to the house of the Lord.”Psalm 122:1
How lovely is your dwelling place, Lord Almighty.
My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the Lord.Psalm 84:1,2
Blessed are those who dwell in your house.
They are ever praising you.Psalm 84:4
Address
Brothers and sisters in Christ:
We rejoice to gather in the Lord’s house today after a significant time without public worship. For several months, our nation and our world have faced the Coronavirus pandemic, and state mandates issued in response to the virus have kept us from gathering here as a congregation. Although we have been strengthened by the gospel during this time, we have missed the cherished blessing of meeting together in God’s house with fellow believers to hear God’s Word, share in Christ’s Supper, and be encouraged by our fellowship together.
These past weeks have provided time for honest personal reflection: Have we taken God’s Word and public worship for granted? Have earthly blessings and entertainment become a higher priority in our hearts than the gospel? Have we doubted the promises of our almighty God to accomplish his good and gracious will in all circumstances?
The Lord uses our troubles in this life for many purposes, especially the purpose of lovingly leading us to repentance and renewed trust in his Word. As we gather in God’s house today, let us confess our sins to him, ask for his forgiveness, and receive his gracious pardon.
Confession of Sins
Almighty and merciful Father,
We have strayed from your ways like lost sheep. We have followed what we have devised and desired in our hearts. We have offended you and sinned against your holy law. We have done those things that we should not have done, and we have not done those things that we should have done. Have mercy on us, Lord! Spare us, forgive us, and restore us, according to your promises in Christ Jesus.
Silence for reflection.
Absolution
God, our merciful Father, has forgiven all our sins. He sent his Son, Jesus Christ, to be our Redeemer and Savior. Jesus paid the penalty for our guilt by his death on the cross and freed us from death by his resurrection from the grave. We have peace with God now and forever.
Amen.
Hymn To Your Temple I Draw Near Christian Worship #226
Prayer of the Day
Let us pray.
Holy Spirit, God and Lord, come to us this joyful day with your sevenfold gift of grace. Rekindle in ours hearts the holy fire of your love that in a true and living faith we may tell abroad the glory of our Savior, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Father, one God, now and forever.
Amen.
First Reading Joel 2: 28-29
“And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions. 29 Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days. NIV
After the reading:
The Word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God!
Psalm of the Day 51b Christian Worship: Supplement
The refrain is sung in unison.
The minister will read the verses.
O Lord, open my lips,
And my mouth shall declare your praise.
You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it;
You do not take pleasure in burnt offerings.
The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit;
A broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.
Refrain
Create in me a pure heart, O God,
And renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Do not cast me from your presence
Or take your Holy Spirit from me.
Restore to me the joy of your salvation,
And grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
Then I will teach transgressors your ways,
And sinners will turn back to you.
Glory be to the Father and to the Son
and to the Holy Spirit,
as it was in the beginning,
is now, and will be forever. Amen.
Refrain
Second Reading Acts 2:1-21
1When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues[a] as the Spirit enabled them.
5 Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. 6 When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard their own language being spoken. 7 Utterly amazed, they asked: “Aren’t all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 Then how is it that each of us hears them in our native language? 9 Parthians, Medes and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia,[b]10 Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome 11 (both Jews and converts to Judaism); Cretans and Arabs—we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!” 12 Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, “What does this mean?”
13 Some, however, made fun of them and said, “They have had too much wine.”
14 Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: “Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say. 15 These people are not drunk, as you suppose. It’s only nine in the morning! 16 No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 “‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. 18 Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy. 19 I will show wonders in the heavens above and signs on the earth below, blood and fire and billows of smoke. 20 The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and glorious day of the Lord. 21 And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’
After the reading:
The Word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God!
Stand.
Gospel John 16:5-11
Sermon text underlined.
But now I am going to him who sent me. None of you asks me, ‘Where are you going?’ 6 Rather, you are filled with grief because I have said these things. 7 But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. 8 When he comes, he will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment: 9 about sin, because people do not believe in me; 10 about righteousness, because I am going to the Father, where you can see me no longer; 11 and about judgment, because the prince of this world now stands condemned.
After the reading:
The Gospel of the Lord.
Praise be to you, O Christ!
Be seated.
Hymn of the Day Come, Holy Ghost, God and Lord
Christian Worship #176
Sermon John 16:8-11
Help Us, Holy Spirit, to Convince the World of:
Sin
2. Righteousness
3. Judgement
Stand after the sermon.
Apostles’ Creed
I believe in God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried.He descended into hell. The third day he rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of God the Father almighty. From there he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Christian Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
Be seated.
Prayer of the Church
Lord, hear our prayer. Listen to our cry for mercy.
Let the morning bring us word of your unfailing love.Psalm 143:1,8
Lord God, your Son ascended into heaven and now sits at your right hand, ruling over all things for the benefit of the Church. Bless the proclamation of Christ’s gospel, especially during this present pandemic, that the good news of salvation may be proclaimed to the ends of the earth. Lord, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.
Heavenly Father, your Son came to seek and to save the lost. Reach out with your grace to those who do not know you or who have drifted from faith, that they may return to you and find peace in your gracious forgiveness. Lord, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.
Lord of the Church, you provide ministers of the gospel to teach and preach your saving truth. Bless all who serve your people with faithfulness to your Word and eagerness to proclaim the good news of salvation. Send your Holy Spirit on all who are about to begin public service in your kingdom. … (Specific people may be mentioned.) … May their service to the Church extend your kingdom and glorify your name. Lord, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.
Compassionate Lord, your Son is the Great Physician of body and soul. Watch over all who are sick and suffering. According to your will, provide healing to their bodies and comfort for their souls. … (Specific people and circumstances may be mentioned.) … Bless the efforts of doctors, nurses, and all health care workers, that their work may be a blessing to those under their care. Lord, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.
Lord of the nations, you instituted government to establish peace and order in society. Give wisdom to all leaders in our nation, state, county, and city, that they may enact wise laws, enforce justice fairly, and serve with faithfulness and diligence. Lord, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.
Omniscient Lord, in your wisdom you make the troubles of this life serve for our eternal blessing. Fill our hearts with trust in your promise to make all things work for the good of your people. When we doubt or worry, forgive us. Teach us to look to you as our guide through life and source of all our blessings. Lord, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.
God of all wisdom, you instill in us all good and useful knowledge. Bless our schools, teachers, parents, and students, as they complete the present school year under unusual circumstances. Fill them with eagerness to carry out the tasks before them. Give them patience especially during these challenging times. Bless especially those who are graduating from schools this spring, that they may faithfully use the knowledge and skills they have learned in the next phase of their lives. Lord, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.
Loving Lord, you are a refuge for all who are in distress. Send your divine comfort on all who experience emotional and psychological trauma because of the current pandemic. Provide them relief from their suffering, strength to bear their crosses, and assurance through your Word. Use us to support the depressed and anxious that they may be encouraged by our words of love and actions of compassion. Lord, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.
Gracious God, you are with your people in every situation. Be present with the members of our congregation who are with us in spirit even though health concerns keep them from being physically among us today. Embrace them with the warmth of your grace, and protect them from illness and harm. Keep them safe in your care so that, at the proper time, we may gather again as one body to worship you. Lord, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.
God of all grace, even in these uncertain times, you bestow blessing after blessing on your people. We praise you for every good and perfect gift we enjoy from your generous hand. … (Specific people and blessings may be mentioned.) … Teach us to value life, health, family, and all our “daily bread” as your gifts of grace to us. Lord, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.
Lord of life and death, we thank you for the faithful Christians who have gone before us, who served as examples of faith and love for us, and who now rest from their labors. … (Specific people may be mentioned.) … Comfort those who mourn the loss of loved ones who have died in faith with your promise of the resurrection to eternal life. Lord, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.
Almighty God, you have promised to hear our prayers and answer them according to your wisdom and love. Responding to your promise, we place these petitions before you and ask your blessing through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Amen.
Lord’s Prayer
Hear us, Lord, as we pray in your Son’s name:
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.
Blessing
The Lord bless you and keep you.
The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you.
The Lord look on you with favor and ✠ give you peace.
Amen.
Be seated.
Hymn Almighty Father, Bless the Word
Christian Worship #323
Announcements
Next week’s theme June 7, 2020 Trinity:
“The Festival of the Holy Trinity”
KATLYNN TINDALL ACCEPTANCE LETTER
Dear Members of St. John’s Lutheran Church and School,
On May 16, I received the divine call extended to me through the WELS Assignment Committee to serve as your 3rd-5th grade teacher.
I am really looking forward to this wonderful opportunity to serve the congregation, school and most importantly our God. Thank you very much for your thoughts and prayers. I look forward to meeting all of you. God’s Blessings.
In Christ,
Katlynn Tindall
“Hello! My name is Katlynn Tindall. I grew up in Waukesha, WI and graduated from WISCO in 2014. I attended MLC and graduated in December 2018. Upon graduation I taught grade 2 at Trinity in Brillion for a semester. Then I was assigned grades 2-4 at Zion in Toledo, OH. For fun I enjoy baking, drinking coffee, game nights, outdoor activities and spending time with family and friends. I am excited to meet all of you and continue sharing Jesus’ love to the students at St. Johns!”
CONTACT INFORMATION
Katlynn Tindall
Send a card, call, text or e-mail your words of encouragement!
With the Festival of Pentecost, the Christian Church begins its celebration of the non-festival half of the church year. During the very long season of Pentecost (which lasts until the middle of autumn), the lessons and Gospel for the day concentrate on our lives of Christian sanctification (sanctify=to make holy). As we will see today and over the next several weeks, our sanctification – like our salvation – depends entirely upon the working of our almighty God through the good news of eternal salvation. This good news naturally moves Christians to bear good fruit in their lives. Yes, our new life as Christians depends on the power of the Holy Spirit.
First Lesson (Joel 2:28,29)
What day was the prophet Joel looking forward to?
Who would receive the blessings and power of the Holy Spirit?
Second Lesson (Acts 2:1-21)
What did the Holy Spirit enable the apostles to do?
How did the people react?
What was Peter’s answer for this miracle?
Gospel (John 16:5-11)
What promise did Jesus make his disciples in verse 7?
What would the Holy Spirit do when he came?
Answers:
In particular, Joel’s prophecy looked forward to the Day of Pentecost that we hear about in the Second Lesson.
All Christians, both men and women, young and old, would receive the power of the Holy Spirit. With the Spirit comes gifts of many kinds, as, for instance, St. Paul points out in 1 Corinthians 12:4-11.
He gave the apostles the ability to speak in recognizable languages that they had not previously learned or spoken.
Most of the people were amazed that they heard these men “declaring the wonders of God” in their own language. Other assumed that they were drunk.
Peter pointed out that this miracle was the beginning of the fulfillment of Joel’s prophecy.
He promised that after he ascended into heaven he would send his disciples the Holy Spirit as their counselor.
He would convict the world of sin through the law of God, and bring comfort to burdened souls through the gospel of salvation.
CONFIRMED IN THE FAITH ON MAY 27, 2020
ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN–MONTELLO
FRONT ROW L-R: Emma Steuck, Lucas Gunderson, Anna Steuck
BACK ROM L-R: Principal Larry Sellnow, Joe Vote, Leevi Walker, Pastor Pete Zietlow
Brittany Pick – Montello High School, parent: Amanda Stalker
Ella Stelter – Montello High School, parents: Jamie & Heidi Stelter
If you know of a graduate that we missed, please call or email Ciara in the office 297-2866 or scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org. Thank you!
KIDS GIVE TO MISSIONS Despite the Day School & Little Lambs and Sunday School not meeting together in April and May, our kids still completed their annual mission projects with record amounts! A salute and thank you to kids and their parents who also helped make our 2019-2020 totals possible!
St. John’s School & Little Lambs gave $1,012.59 to the Kids C.A.R.E. mission project. Their gift will help support Early Childhood Education in Indonesia.
St. John’s Sunday School has given a gift of $405.00 to our WELS 316NOW Sheep to Lambs program in China where teaching Bible truths publicly to youth is illegal. Their contribution will help produce materials that Chinese Christian parents can use in the privacy of their homes to instruction their children.
We pray that supporting these annual mission projects inspires our children to be mission-minded for life, to grow up sharing the Word with others, and to give generously to missions all their lives!
The time is fast approaching for us to be able to come together for worship – but not quite yet. And when we do begin in-person gathering, things will still be different for a while. There are several precautions and restrictions that will need to be in place.
Your congregation leaders have been closely monitoring the situation and are staying up to date with governments directives and guidance for resuming group gatherings. We have also been following the information and encouragement being offered by our synodical leaders, as well as communicating with and sharing information with neighboring congregations.
The following plans will be put in place at Emanuel/St. John’s. Please read the following information. Please be understanding and patient as we try to navigate these uncharted and troubled waters. You are welcome to speak with the pastor or church leaders if you have questions or concerns.
General Information
Worship times: 8:00 Emmanuel (Emmanuel members only). 10:00 St. John’s Sunday (St. John’s 55 and older).6:30 St. John’s Wednesday (St. John’s under 55) by way of emailing the church secretary (scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org) or calling the church office at (608) 297-2866.
The service will be recorded and made available on the church’s website as we have been doing for several weeks.
Pastor Zietlow will provide private personal and family communion to anyone who requests it.
Encouragements
Anyone experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or who is sick should stay home.
Those who are at high risk or uncomfortable with the latest service format should stay home.
Those who have access to and are comfortable with online worship are encouraged to continue worshiping in that manner.
Wearing a mask when in the church building is strongly encouraged.
Worshipers are encouraged to practice good hygiene and social distancing.
Distancing
Worshippers will be directed to use every other pew. Worship bulletins will be placed in the designated pews.
Worshipers should enter through the south main church entrance unless they need the elevator. Only the main entrance and elevator entrance area will be open.
The school, gymnasium, church balcony, and basement will not be available.
Gathering inside the building before or after worship is being discouraged. People may gather outside the building following social distance recommendations.
Sanitation and Cleaning
The sanctuary, entrances, elevator, and bathrooms will be cleaned before and after each worship service.
Hand sanitizer and masks will be available.
There will be no hymnals or other materials in the pews. Worship bulletins are for one use only and should be taken home after the service.
Offering Plates will be in the narthex.
Worship
Lord willing, we will resume gathering together in limited fashion on Pentecost Sunday, May 31.
The 8:00 am worship at Emmanuel will be for Emmanuel members only.
The 10:00 am Sunday Service at St. John’s will be for those members who are 55 and older and cannot receive the service via technology. Limited capacity of 50.
The 6:30 pm Wednesday Service will be available for everyone who is under 55 and cannot receive the service via technology, and for those who are 55 and younger who have signed up and wish to worship in person. Please sign up for the Wednesday service by emailing the church secretary (scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org) or calling the church office at (608) 297-2866.
The large screen at St. John’s will be used to project the order of service and hymns. Bulletins will be placed in the designated pews where people are allowed to sit.
There will be limited congregational singing and speaking. A cantor will assist with the singing and liturgical responses.
Ushers will wear masks, and the offering plates will be placed in the narthex.
Holy Communion will be celebrated at every service as we reopen. Each person or household will come forward to front using the center aisle and return by way of the side aisles. A “continuous flow” format will be used with individuals and/or families keeping a safe distance apart.
Worshipers will be asked to exit the church from the back to the front.
Some final thoughts. These are unusual times for our world and Christ’s church. Patience, caution, respect and consideration for others, and more is required from all of us. But the Word of the Lord is forever, and we continue to pray, “O Thou who changest not, abide with me.”
1 Corinthians 1:4-9 New International Version (NIV) – Thanksgiving – 4 I always thank my God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus. 5 For in him you have been enriched in every way—with all kinds of speech and with all knowledge— 6 God thus confirming our testimony about Christ among you. 7 Therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed. 8 He will also keep you firm to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
