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CONFIRMED IN THE FAITH ON MAY 27, 2020

May 29, 2020May 29, 2020 lillyk24

CONFIRMED IN THE FAITH ON MAY 27, 2020 AT ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN–MONTELLO

FRONT ROW L-R: Emma Steuck, Lucas Gunderson, Anna SteuckBACK ROM L-R: Principal Larry Sellnow, Joe Vote, Leevi Walker, Pastor Pete Zietlow

BULLETIN- May 24th, 2020

May 23, 2020May 23, 2020 lillyk24

The 7^th Sunday of Easter

May 24, 2020

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 thankfulness of praise.

P: Christ is risen!

C: He is risen, indeed! Alleluia!

HYMN 169 Alleluia! Sing to Jesus

INVOCATION hymnal page 15

P: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

OPENING PRAYER hymnal page 10

P: O Lord — our Maker, Redeemer, and Comforter — we are assembled in your presence to hear your holy Word. We pray that you would open our hearts by your Holy Spirit, that through the preaching of your Word we may repent of our sins, believe in Jesus, and grow day by day in grace and holiness. Hear us for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

CONFESSION & ABSOLUTION hymnal page 38

P: We have come into the presence of God, who created us to love and serve him as his dear children. But we have disobeyed him and deserve only his wrath and punishment. Therefore, let us confess our sins to him and plead for his mercy.

C: Merciful Father in heaven, I am altogether sinful from birth. In countless ways I have sinned against you and do not deserve to be called your child. But trusting in Jesus, my Savior, I pray: Have mercy on me according to your unfailing love. Cleanse me from my sin, and take away my guilt.

P: God, our heavenly Father, has forgiven all your sins. By the perfect life and innocent death of our Lord, Jesus Christ, he has removed your guilt forever. You are his own dear child. May God give you strength to live according to his will. Amen.

✠ T H E W O R D ✠

The Lord Jesus speaks to us in Scripture reading, preaching and song.

FIRST LESSON Acts 1:1-14

Summary: Protection as we wait for the Lord

In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen. After his suffering, he showed himself to these men and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”

So when they met together, they asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?”

He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.

They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.”

Then they returned to Jerusalem from the hill called the Mount of Olives, a Sabbath day’s walk from the city. When they arrived, they went upstairs to the room where they were staying. Those present were Peter, John, James and Andrew; Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew; James son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot, and Judas son of James. They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers.

PSALM 8 hymnal page 67

*Sung refrains and read verses.

Z:\CHURCH STUFF\CW Pew Edition\CW TIFF files\Psalms\Ps 008.tif

O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!

You have set your glory above the heavens.

When I consider your heavens,

The work of your fingers,

What is man that you are mindful of him,

The Son of Man that you care for him?

Refrain

You made him a little lower that the heavenly beings,

And crowned him with glory and honor.

You made him ruler over the works of your hands;

You put everything under his feet.

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 1 Peter 4:12-17; 5:6-11

Summary: Protection in suffering

Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.

VERSE OF THE DAY John 14:23

P: Alleluia. Alleluia. Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Alleluia.

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

GOSPEL LESSON John 17:1-11a (today’s sermon text)

Summary: Protection as we live in the world

After Jesus said this, he looked toward heaven and prayed: “Father, the time has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you. For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him. Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent. I have brought you glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do. And now, Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the world began.

“I have revealed you to those whom you gave me out of the world. They were yours; you gave them to me and they have obeyed your word. Now they know that everything you have given me comes from you. For I gave them the words you gave me and they accepted them. They knew with certainty that I came from you, and they believed that you sent me. I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me, for they are yours. All I have is yours, and all you have is mine. And glory has come to me through them. I will remain in the world no longer, but they are still in the world, and I am coming to you.

PRAYER OF THE DAY

P: Almighty God, your Son our Savior was taken up in glory and intercedes for us at your right hand. Through your living and abiding Word, give us hearts to know him and faith to follow where he has gone; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

SERMON HYMN 359 Jesus, My Great High Priest

SERMONETTE John 17:1-11a

“You’re in Jesus’ Prayers”

APOSTLES’ CREED

*Sung to the tune of CW 277

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!

PRAYER OF THE CHURCH

M: Blessed Jesus, you ascended to the right hand of your Father’s majesty, power, and glory and now reign as eternal King of kings and Lord of lords.

C: We praise you for your victory over sin, death, Satan, and hell.

M: O ascended Prophet, equip your Church to proclaim the precious gospel message of God’s love for all the world.

C: Give courage to our hearts, power to our words, and success to our efforts.

M: O ascended High Priest, represent us before the Father as his own dear children and heirs. Defend us against Satan’s every accusation. Ask for the Father’s rich blessings in our everyday lives.

C: Plead for his mercy and grace on our behalf.

M: O ascended King, direct the affairs of governments and nations that they may serve the best interest of your Church.

C: You are our Lord, Master, and King.

M. We thank you for those who have sacrificed their lives in service to our country.

C: Be with those who grieve over the loss of beloved parents, sons, daughters, husbands, wives, and friends who went to war and did not return.

M: Comfort them with the knowledge that in Jesus Christ, your son, we have victory over death and the promise of a future reunion in heaven.

C: Make us thankful for our nation’s freedoms purchased at so great a price.

Special prayers and intercessions may follow.

M: Hear us, Lord, as we bring you our private petitions.

Silent prayer.

M: As the disciples lifted their eyes to watch your ascension, so lift our eyes daily to look for your coming again in glory.

C: Lord Jesus, come quickly. Amen.

LORD’S PRAYER hymnal page 43

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed by 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 PRAYER hymnal page 43

P: O Lord God, our heavenly Father, pour out the Holy Spirit on your faithful people. Keep us strong in your grace and truth, protect and comfort us in all temptation, and bestow on us your saving peace, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

BLESSING hymnal page 44

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.

Then Lord look on you with favor and + give you peace.

Amen.

CLOSING HYMN 619 God Bless Our Native Land

Announcements

Next week’s theme May 31, 2020 The 7^th Sunday after Easter:

“The Festival of the Holy Spirit”

Emmanuel & St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Churches

Mecan & Montello, WI

Worship Service Restart Plans

May 24, 2020

Dear Members and Friends of Emmanuel/St. John’s,

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 – ⁴I always thank my God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus. ⁵For in him you have been enriched in every way—with all kinds of speech and with all knowledge— ⁶God thus confirming our testimony about Christ among you. ⁷Therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed. ⁸He will also keep you firm to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. ⁹God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

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!

2960 W Central Ave. Apt. #122

Toledo, OH 43606

262-352-7021

tindalka@mlc-wels.edu

The Ascended Christ Intercedes For Us

The Seventh Sunday of Easter – A

God’s Word for Today

Even as we come to the close of the Easter season the victorious note of Easter still rings out loud and clear. It is the Sunday after the ascension of our Lord, thus there is a spirit of rejoicing over the reigning, glorious Christ. His abiding love continues to sustain us.

First Lesson (Acts 1:1-14)

What persistent misunderstanding about the kingdom of God still troubled the disciples?

Where is our Jerusalem, our Judea and Samaria?

Why do you think the angel reminded the disciples that Jesus would return in glory just as they had seen him go?

Second Lesson (1 Peter 4:12-17; 5:6-11)

Why is our sinful nature surprised when troubles enter our life?

How does Peter encourage a long-range view of suffering?

What is being described by the word, “anxiety”?

Gospel (John 17:1-11a)

Why did Jesus pray, “Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you?”

What comfort do we find in our Savior’s prayer?

Answers:

The disciples still had trouble realizing that the kingdom of God was not something earthly and visible.

Just as Jerusalem was the city in which the disciples were at this time, our Jerusalem would be the towns and cities in which we live. As we begin to share the Word with those around us, we will easily want to share it beyond that scope, to our “Judea and Samaria.” Through our generous offerings we are able to send missionaries with the Word to others living not only in our country but also beyond our borders as we reach to the ends of the earth.

Little would get done while they stared off into heaven. Jesus would be returning. In the meantime, there was much work to do while it was day.

Our sinful nature shares the world’s view that the short-term happiness is evidence of God’s favor.

The brief pain and persecution that we experience doesn’t begin to compare with the long-term glory we will have with Christ. (Romans 8:18)

In our complex world we are pulled in every direction. Cares and concerns mount and build, thus we lose our true focus. God’s invitation takes that burden off of us.

In praying for the Father to glorify him, Jesus was praying for the successful outcome of his work of salvation. The glory would come with Jesus’ victory over Satan on the cross. Through Jesus the glory of the Father also shone brightly since all that the Son did was for the Father’s glory.

As Jesus prays for the disciples protection, the Lord shows once more, that even in the midst of his own anguish before the cross, how dear his own are to him.

Bulletin- May 17, 2020 | The 6th Sunday of Easter

May 16, 2020May 16, 2020 lillyk24

The 6^th Sunday of Easter

May 17, 2020

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 thankfulness of praise.

P: Christ is risen!

C: He is risen, indeed! Alleluia!

HYMN 143 He’s Risen, He’s Risen

INVOCATION hymnal page 15

P: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

OPENING PRAYER hymnal page 10

CONFESSION & ABSOLUTION hymnal page 38

✠ T H E W O R D ✠

The Lord Jesus speaks to us in Scripture reading, preaching and song.

FIRST LESSON Acts 17:22-31

Summary: In Him we live and move and have our being

Paul then stood up in the meeting of the Areopagus and said: “Men of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious. For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. Now what you worship as something unknown I am going to proclaim to you.

“The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything, because he himself gives all men life and breath and everything else. From one man he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. `For in him we live and move and have our being.’ As some of your own poets have said, `We are his offspring.’

“Therefore since we are God’s offspring, we should not think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone– an image made by man’s design and skill. In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to all men by raising him from the dead.”

PSALM 66 hymnal page 90

*Sung in unison.

Shout with joy to God, all the earth!

Sing the glory of his name; make his praise glorious!

Praise our God, O peoples,

Let the sound of his praise be heard.

He has preserved our lives

And kept our feet from slipping.

Refrain

Come and listen all you who fear God;

Let me tell you what he has done for me.

If I had cherished sin in my heart,

The Lord would not have listened;

But God has surely listened

And heard my voice in prayer.

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 1 Peter 3:15-22

Summary: Living in the living Lord means witnessing for Him

But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. It is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit, through whom also he went and preached to the spirits in prison who disobeyed long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water, and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also–not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a good conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at God’s right hand– with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him.

VERSE OF THE DAY John 14:23

P: Alleluia. Alleluia. Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia. If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. Alleluia.

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

GOSPEL LESSON John 14:15-21

Summary: Living in the Lord means loving and obeying Him

“If you love me, you will obey what I command. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever– the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you. Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him.”

PRAYER OF THE DAY

P: Father of lights, every good and perfect gift comes from you. Inspire us to think those things that are true and long for those things that are good, that we may always make our petitions according to your gracious will; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

SERMON HYMN 377:1-4 Dear Christians, One and All, Rejoice

SERMONETTE John 14: 19b (underlined in Gospel lesson)

“Because I Live, You Also Will Live”

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.

HYMN 377:5-8 Dear Christians, One and All, Rejoice

EASTER SEASON PRAYER

*Read by Pastor

LORD’S PRAYER hymnal page 43

CLOSING PRAYER hymnal page 43

BLESSING hymnal page 44

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.

Then Lord look on you with favor and + give you peace.

Amen.

CLOSING HYMN 377:9, 10 Dear Christians, One and All, Rejoice

Announcements

Next week’s theme: May 24, 2020 The 6^th Sunday after Easter:

“The Risen Lord Offers Protection”

COVID-19 PANDEMIC

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

For the past 2 months now, our nation’s “Safer at Home” social distancing mandate has changed how we live and how God feeds and leads us with his Word. However, we need to remember that the power of God’s Word and the comfort of the gospel is not diminished by the way it is delivered. You will hear law and gospel. You will be assured of Christ’s forgiveness. Your faith will be nourished and our trust in God’s unchanging promises will be strengthened.

Perhaps God will use this experience to lead us to never take public worship for granted again. I pray that God is also using this crisis to draw many in our nation to see the value of forgiveness, faith and the Word of God. As He tells us, “My Word will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” (Isaiah 55:11). If you know of someone who doesn’t have access to these on-line worship opportunities, please let us know. Call (608-297-2866) or email <scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org> church/school secretary Ciara Neuhauser at the church office or leave a message.

At the encouragement of our church synod leaders, we will be reserving distribution of the Lord’s Supper for its regular and normal use within the gathering of the body of believers, except in special circumstances. We take comfort in knowing that we have two forms of the means of grace – Word and sacrament. Forgiveness received through God’s Word is no less powerful and effective than the sacrament.

Every Saturday at 11am (either at Emmanuel at St. John’s) we will record an abbreviated service that will be uploaded to our website <www.stjohnsmontello.org> & linked You Tube channel together with a bulletin file available for viewing at your convenience. These services will also be available via DVD, printed sermon & bulletin mailings. Many thanks to those helping with our recorded services including: Darrell Buchholz, Pastor John Dolan, Kerry Mann, Rachel Naumann, Ciara Neuhauser, Larry & Lynn Sellnow, Lucas Stelter, Sue Tutaj, James Wachholz and Lauren Zietlow. Thanks also to the Sellnow’s for recording weekly school chapel devotions and for Pastor Dolan for recording weekly Bible studies.

While we might be tempted to face this situation with a great deal of disappointment and chagrin, we also recognize the opportunity God is placing before us to ponder and grasp ever more firmly his promise of spiritual health for our souls and to reflect the light of his love to others. We can:

– pray for God’s healing for those affected by the virus

– pray for those involved in essential services – medical personnel, first responders, and those who keep the peace

– share the links to our website and worship service with family, friends, and acquaintances

– renew our daily devotional life

– continue to support the message and ministry of our congregation by responding in thanks to God for his gift of eternal life through offerings mailed to the church office, by electronic-ACH-auto-pay-direct-deposit giving or via credit card at <www.stjohnsmontello.org> menu button “Church Recorded Service” DONATE NOW yellow button. Call Ciara at the church office for direct depost giving details.

– offer care and compassion for those who need support and a listening ear

Church elders, shepherd, trustees, other concerned members and Pastor Zietlow have been contacting all E/SJ members (via email, text, and phone) to make all aware of the situation, to offer alternatives for those who do not have a computer or internet access, and to offer any special assistance during these challenging times. Following our governor’s announcement on 3/24, all WI residents are to stay “Safer At Home”. President Trump also advises that we continue this “social distancing” for the forseeable future. These are trying times..times for personal reflection, Bible study, devotion and prayer. Pastor Zietlow (608-408-7830 talk/text) and our E/SJ Elders are available for emergency home visits. Please reach out to them directly.

Elders:

Darrell Buchholz at E – (608) 215-7871, darrell.buchholz@gmail.com

Jerre Duerr at SJ – (608) 697-8706, jerre.asc@gmail.com

Jim Eisermann at SJ – (608) 297-8171, jay.diane.eisermann@gmail.com

Wayne Stelter at E – (608) 297-2761, shieldscreamery@gmail.com

James Wachholz at SJ – (608) 369-2635, lwmsreporter@stjohnsmontello.org

We as your church family want to be able to help and serve you, but we can all rejoice as we look to the One who is our real and lasting helper. He is our strength and that’s especially comforting in a time like this, when our human weakness is made so clear!

In Jesus Christ our loving, protecting, crucified & risen Savior,

Pastor Pete Zietlow (608-408-7830 talk/text & ZietlowPL6@hotmail.com)

“The Lord knows the way that I take, and when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.” (Job 23:10)

We Confess The Risen Christ

The Sixth Sunday of Easter – A

God’s Word for Today

Confession of Christ and of our hope in him is the calling of all who have been baptized. Such confession includes not only our faithful testimony but also our loving obedience to Jesus’ commands. As we live out our confession of Christ, we are comforted by the presence of the Spirit whom the Son has sent while we await his return.

First Lesson (Acts 17:22-31)

How did Paul make use of Greek “items” readily at his disposal in order to point to the true God?

Second Lesson (1 Peter 3:15-22)

Who will ask us the questions that we should be prepared to answer?

What makes me “prepared to give an answer”?

What does Peter mean by “the hope that you have”?

Why did Jesus descend into hell?

Gospel (John 14:15-21)

How can Jesus say that the Spirit “lives with you and will be in you”?

What comfort is ours when Jesus says, “Because I live, you also will live”?

Answers:

Many of the philosophers of the day were pantheists. They believed god was in everything. But they confused the Creator with his creation. Paul, pointing to the altar “To An Unknown God” and quoting two Greek poets, emphasized that the living Creator-God is unlike the false gods of the Greeks, which were crafted out of stone or metals into an image made by a man. This God, the Creator, is alive. Paul was urging them to repent and turn to the living God.

The unbelieving world will see the way we live under the cross and ask us why we are so happy to live like that.

A true knowledge of the Scriptures through prayerful study and meditation on how it applies to my life not only prepares me to give an answer, but calms my own fears.

The hope that we have is that this life of humble living and service will someday be followed with the glories of heaven.

Jesus proclaimed that Good Friday had not been a defeat, but a glorious victory. It was a public humiliation that was inflicted upon the defeated forces of Satan.

The Holy Spirit, together with the Father and the Son, was already at work in the hearts of the disciples bringing them to faith in Jesus. But there was also going to be a special outpouring of the Spirit on the disciples on Pentecost.

Jesus’ living assures our living. In a short while, Jesus would go through crucifixion and death. He would suffer for the guilt of our sins. But then he would rise, and sin and death would no longer rule us. So his life now counts for our life, just as his death counted for our death. By Jesus’ Spirit we believe and live that life now.

Church Update

May 15, 2020May 15, 2020 lillyk24

BULLETIN- May 10, 2020

May 9, 2020May 9, 2020 lillyk24

The 5^th Sunday of Easter

Mother’s Day

May 10, 2020

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 thankfulness of praise.

P: Christ is risen!

C: He is risen, indeed! Alleluia!

HYMN 141 At the Lamb’s High Feast We Sing

INVOCATION hymnal page 15

P: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

OPENING PRAYER hymnal page 10

CONFESSION & ABSOLUTION hymnal page 38

✠ T H E W O R D ✠

The Lord Jesus speaks to us in Scripture reading, preaching and song.

FIRST LESSON Acts 17:1-12

Summary: The apostle Paul proclaims Jesus, only Jesus

When Paul and his companions had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a Jewish synagogue. As was his custom, Paul went into the synagogue, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and proving that the Messiah had to suffer and rise from the dead. “This Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Messiah,” he said. Some of the Jews were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, as did a large number of God-fearing Greeks and quite a few prominent women.

But other Jews were jealous; so they rounded up some bad characters from the marketplace, formed a mob and started a riot in the city. They rushed to Jason’s house in search of Paul and Silas in order to bring them out to the crowd. But when they did not find them, they dragged Jason and some other believers before the city officials, shouting: “These men who have caused trouble all over the world have now come here, and Jason has welcomed them into his house. They are all defying Caesar’s decrees, saying that there is another king, one called Jesus.” When they heard this, the crowd and the city officials were thrown into turmoil. Then they made Jason and the others post bond and let them go.

In Berea

As soon as it was night, the believers sent Paul and Silas away to Berea. On arriving there, they went to the Jewish synagogue. Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. As a result, many of them believed, as did also a number of prominent Greek women and many Greek men.

PSALM 33 hymnal page 79

*Read verses and sing refrains.

Sing joyfully to the Lord, you righteous;

It is fitting for the upright to praise him.

For the Word of the Lord is right and true;

He is faithful in all he does.

By the word of the Lord were the heavens made,

Their starry host by the breath of this mouth.

For he spoke, and it came to be;

He commanded, and it stood firm.

Refrain

The Lord foils the plans of the nations;

He thwarts the purposes of the peoples.

But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever,

The purposes of his heart through all generations.

The Lord loves righteousness and justice;

The earth is full of his unfailing love.

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 1 Peter 2:4-10

Summary: The disciple Peter describes Jesus Christ as the Cornerstone of the Church

As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to him— you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. For in Scripture it says:

“See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him

will never be put to shame.” Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone,” and, “A stone that causes people to stumble and a rock that makes them fall.”

They stumble because they disobey the message—which is also what they were destined for.

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

VERSE OF THE DAY John 14:6

P: Alleluia. Alleluia. Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia. I am the way, the truth, and the life, says the Lord. Alleluia.

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

GOSPEL LESSON John 14:1-12

Summary: “I am the way, the truth, and the life…”

Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going.”

Jesus the Way to the Father

Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?”

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.”

Philip said, “Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us.”

Jesus answered: “Don’t you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? Don’t you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in me? The words I say to you I do not speak on my own authority. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work. Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or at least believe on the evidence of the works themselves. Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.

PRAYER OF THE DAY

P: O God, you form the minds of your faithful people into a single will. Make us love what you command and desire what you promise, that among the many changes of this world, our hearts may ever yearn for the lasting joys of heaven; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

SERMON HYMN 356 You Are the Way; through You Alone

SERMONETTE John 14: 1-6 (underlined in Gospel lesson)

“I Am the Way”

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.

HYMN 367 Christ By My Leader

EASTER SEASON PRAYER

*Read by Pastor

LORD’S PRAYER hymnal page 43

CLOSING PRAYER hymnal page 43

BLESSING hymnal page 44

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.

Then Lord look on you with favor and + give you peace.

Amen.

CLOSING HYMN 759 Do Not Let Your Hearts Be Troubled

*Canter sings verses, everyone sing refrains.

Announcements

Next week’s theme: May 17, 2020 The 6^th Sunday after Easter:

“Living In and For the Living Lord”

COVID-19 PANDEMIC

(The LORD said:) “Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9). For the past 6 weeks now, our nation’s “Safe at Home” social distancing mandate has changed how we live and how God feeds and leads us with his Word. However, we need to remember that the power of God’s Word and the comfort of the gospel is not diminished by the way it is delivered. You will hear law and gospel. You will be assured of Christ’s forgiveness. Your faith will be nourished and our trust in God’s unchanging promises will be strengthened.

– pray for God’s healing for those affected by the virus

– pray for those involved in essential services – medical personnel, first responders, and those who keep the peace

– share the links to our website and worship service with family, friends, and acquaintances

– renew our daily devotional life

– offer care and compassion for those who need support and a listening ear

Church elders, shepherd, trustees, other concerned members and Pastor Zietlow have been contacting all E/SJ members (via email, text, and phone) to make all aware of the situation, to offer alternatives for those who do not have a computer or internet access, and to offer any special assistance during these challenging times. Following our governor’s announcement on 3/24, all WI residents are to stay “Safe At Home”. President Trump also advises that we continue this “social distancing” until May. These are trying times..times for personal reflection, Bible study, devotion and prayer. Pastor Zietlow (608-408-7830 talk/text) and our E/SJ Elders are available for emergency home visits. Please reach out to them directly.

Elders:

Darrell Buchholz at E – (608) 215-7871, darrell.buchholz@gmail.com

Jerre Duerr at SJ – (608) 697-8706, jerre.asc@gmail.com

Jim Eisermann at SJ – (608) 297-8171, jay.diane.eisermann@gmail.com

Wayne Stelter at E – (608) 297-2761, shieldscreamery@gmail.com

James Wachholz at SJ – (608) 369-2635, lwmsreporter@stjohnsmontello.org

In Jesus Christ our loving, protecting, crucified & risen Savior,

Pastor Pete Zietlow (608-408-7830 talk/text & ZietlowPL6@hotmail.com)

“The Lord knows the way that I take, and when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.” (Job 23:10)

Dear School Children & Families:

Your goodness and generosity have been displayed by the offerings already made to the 2019-2020 Kids C.A.R.E. mission project: Early Childhood Education in Indonesia. Why do we support a mission project? God gives us, even as children, the opportunity to serve Him by sharing Jesus, the Best Gift God gave to us and the Best Gift we can give to others. While we live on earth, God gives us the task of sharing the Hope that we have in our Savior Jesus with others. Giving to missions is one way to do just that! Kids C.A.R.E.–Kids Care About Reaching Everyone with the Gospel.

While the children cannot meet at chapel, they can still share their final gifts for children in Indonesia, and we hope parents will encourage their children to do so. Most children brought weekly offerings through March. Since social distancing continues during the weeks of April and May, perhaps you would take that into consideration as final gifts are made. Place your gift in an envelope labeled “Kids C.A.R.E.” and drop in off with school work to your child’s teacher or mail it to “Kids C.A.R.E., St. John’s Lutheran School, 313 East Montello Street, Montello, WI 53949. All gifts must be received No Later than Friday, May 15.

Working together wonderful things can be achieved. The Kids C.A.R.E. Giving Thermometer currently stands at $966.96—wouldn’t it be great to stretch that figure to over $1,000 to share Jesus with children in Indonesia!

Our Hope Is Built On Christ

The Fifth Sunday of Easter – A

God’s Word for Today

The creative, sustaining Word of Christ brings people into fellowship with the one, true God. Christ, the “Living Stone,” builds up his people like living stones into a spiritual house. Such people of “noble character” now search the truth of God’s Word receiving from it every spiritual blessing.

First Lesson (Acts 17:1-12)

Why was it important for Paul to show the Jews in the synagogues that Christ had to suffer? (v. 3)
For what activity should we remember the Berean Jews?

Second Lesson (1 Peter 2:4-10)

What description does Peter give of all who are joined to Christ by faith?
According to Peter, to what purpose did God call us, his own people, out of darkness? (v. 9)

Gospel (John 14:1-12)

Why was Jesus’ departure not a source of sorrow but a reason for rejoicing?
Must we wait for eternal life to be united with Jesus?
What is the comfort of knowing that a place in heaven exists with our name on it?
Jesus calls himself “the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” What is the significance of the three definite articles?

Answers:

The idea of a suffering Messiah was a stumbling block to the Jews, and so it was important to show that he must suffer.
They took their Bibles seriously. Each day they would test the message of Paul by comparing it with the Scriptures.
He describes them as living stones being built into a spiritual house. Believers are like a temple in which God dwells and where living sacrifices are continually being offered to him.
God called us to declare his praises, that is, to tell the whole world what he has done for us through Jesus Christ our Lord.
He was leaving in order to prepare for them a place in his Father’s house. And, he added, he would return and take them to the place he had prepared. There they would all be together again!
In John 14:23 Jesus stated that he and the Father will come to us and make their home with us. Thus the mystic union is a reality already in this life.
Things in this life come and go, they change, they see decay. But our God is our one constant in our lives. What comfort to know that beyond this ever-changing world we have a place prepared for us by Christ in heaven.
It clearly points out that Jesus is the only way to heaven. He is the world’s one and only Savior (Luke 2:32). Only through Christ our Savior do we ever come to the Father.

Dear members of Emmanuel and St. John’s,

As you all are very aware, we have not been able to physically worship together as a church family or have our students attend school since mid-March. That does not mean that our ministry has slowed down.

In almost every way our ministry here at Emmanuel and St. John’s has had to be retooled and redoubled efforts to meet the challenge that COVID-19 placed before us. And, with any great challenge lies great opportunity.

Your Emmanuel and St. John’s church leadership put together an emergency team in March and met to outline how the churches could carry on our ministry to get the Sunday sermons to our members. In that meeting we decided to have Pastor record his sermons and have them uploaded to our YouTube channel. It was also decided that Pastor and the Elders of both congregations would identify and reach out to the members they KNEW would not be able to utilize the YouTube sermons and provide a different format for those members.

Even though our St. John’s and Little Lambs students have not been able to be in the school physically, our staff have continued to work tirelessly to provide for their spiritual and academic needs via technology and distance learning. Our staff has been there to support school parents through the transition to this new way of spiritual and academic learning.

The Synod recommended for churches to apply and utilize the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program through the CARES Act. Emmanuel and St. John’s financial team met, filled out the loan application, and turned it in to FORTIFI Bank. We were granted the loan on the second round of funding from the federal government. This loan gives us the two and a half months of payroll that is completely forgivable as long as we utilize it for payroll.

After having our teacher calls returned, the St. John’s School Board has requested a Martin Luther College graduate from the WELS assignment committee. Assignments will be announced on May 16. Please keep the assignment committee, MLC graduates, and our school in your prayers.

The St. John’s council will be meeting later in the month in anticipation that at that meeting we can be laying the ground work to a return to physically worshiping together and, God willing, preparing for the physical return of our students our classrooms in the fall.

Please keep our ministry, staff, and leaders in your prayers until we meet again. Know that YOU are in our prayers as well.

BULLETIN- MAY 3, 2020- The 4th Sunday of Easter

May 2, 2020May 2, 2020 lillyk24

Link to Easter Summary Q&A

The 4^th Sunday of Easter

May 3, 2020

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 thankfulness of praise.

P: Christ is risen!

C: He is risen, indeed! Alleluia!

HYMN 360 The Lord’s My Shepherd; I’ll Not Want

INVOCATION hymnal page 15

P: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

OPENING PRAYER hymnal page 10

CONFESSION & ABSOLUTION hymnal page 38

✠ T H E W O R D ✠

The Lord Jesus speaks to us in Scripture reading, preaching and song.

FIRST LESSON Acts 6:1-9; 7:2a, 51-60

Summary: Jesus the Good Shepherd leads us into service and through the valley of the shadow of death.

In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Hellenistic Jewsamong them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.”

This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.

So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.

Now Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, performed great wonders and signs among the people. Opposition arose, however, from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called)—Jews of Cyrene and Alexandria as well as the provinces of Cilicia and Asia—who began to argue with Stephen.

To this he replied: “Brothers and fathers, listen to me! The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham while he was still in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Harran.

“You stiff-necked people! Your hearts and ears are still uncircumcised. You are just like your ancestors: You always resist the Holy Spirit! Was there ever a prophet your ancestors did not persecute? They even killed those who predicted the coming of the Righteous One. And now you have betrayed and murdered him— you who have received the law that was given through angels but have not obeyed it.”

The Stoning of Stephen

When the members of the Sanhedrin heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him. But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. “Look,” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.”

At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their coats at the feet of a young man named Saul.

While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” Then he fell on his knees and cried out, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” When he had said this, he fell asleep.

PSALM 23 hymnal page 72

*Read verses and sing refrains.

The Lord is my shepherd,

I shall not be in want.

He makes me lie down in green pastures;

He leads me besides quiet waters.

He restores my soul;

He guides me in paths of righteousness

For his name’s sake.

Even though I walk through the valley

Of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil,

For you are with me;

Your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Refrain

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.

You anoint my head with oil;

My cup overflows.

Surely goodness and love will follow me

All the days of my life,

And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

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 1 Peter 2:19-25

Summary: You were like sheep gone astray but have now returned to the Good Shepherd

For it is commendable if someone bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because they are conscious of God. But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.”

When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. ^“He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.” For “you were like sheep going astray,” but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

VERSE OF THE DAY John 10:14

P: Alleluia. Alleluia. Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia. I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me. Alleluia.

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

GOSPEL LESSON John 10:1-10

Summary: “I am the Good Shepherd”

“Very truly I tell you Pharisees, anyone who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber. The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice. But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger’s voice.” Jesus used this figure of speech, but the Pharisees did not understand what he was telling them.

Therefore Jesus said again, “Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. All who have come before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep have not listened to them. I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

PRAYER OF THE DAY

P: O Lord Jesus Christ, you are the Good Shepherd who laid down your life for the sheep. Lead us now to the still waters of your life-giving Word that we may abide in your Father’s house forevermore; for you live and reign with him and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

SERMON HYMN 432 I Am Jesus’ Little Lamb

SERMONETTE John 10: 11-16

“Jesus is our Good Shepherd”

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.

“I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.

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.

HYMN 766 The Lord’s My Shepherd

C:\Users\secretary\Downloads\CWS 766.tif

GOOD SHEPHERD SUNDAY PRAYER

*Read by Pastor

LORD’S PRAYER hymnal page 43

CLOSING PRAYER hymnal page 43

BLESSING hymnal page 44

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.

Then Lord look on you with favor and + give you peace.

Amen.

CLOSING SOLO “God is My Shepherd”

*Soloist Lucas Stelter.

Announcements

Next week’s theme: May 10, 2020 The 5^th Sunday after Easter-Mother’s Day:

“Jesus Is the Only Savior”

COVID-19 PANDEMIC

“Seek the Lord while he may be found! Call on him while he is near! Let the wicked man abandon his way. Let an evil man abandon his thoughts. Let him turn to the Lord, and he will show him mercy. Let him turn to our God, because he will abundantly pardon. Certainly my plans are not your plans, and your ways are not my ways, declares the Lord. Just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways, and my plans are higher than your plans.

Just as the rain and the snow come down from the sky and do not return there unless they first water the earth, make it give birth, and cause it to sprout, so that it gives seed to the sower and bread to the eater, in the same way my word that goes out from my mouth will not return to me empty. Rather, it will accomplish whatever I please, and it will succeed in the purpose for which I sent it.” (Isaiah 55:6-9 Evangelical Heritage Version)

For the past month now, our nation’s “Safe St Home” social distancing mandate has changed how we live and how God feeds and leads us with his Word. However, we need to remember that the power of God’s Word and the comfort of the gospel is not diminished by the way it is delivered. You will hear law and gospel. You will be assured of Christ’s forgiveness. Your faith will be nourished and our trust in God’s unchanging promises will be strengthened.

– pray for God’s healing for those affected by the virus

– pray for those involved in essential services – medical personnel, first responders, and those who keep the peace

– share the links to our website and worship service with family, friends, and acquaintances

– renew our daily devotional life

– offer care and compassion for those who need support and a listening ear

Church elders, shepherd, trustees, other concerned members and Pastor Zietlow have been contacting all E/SJ members (via email, text, and phone) to make all aware of the situation, to offer alternatives for those who do not have a computer or internet access, and to offer any special assistance during these challenging times. Following our governor’s announcement on 3/24, all WI residents are to stay “Safe At Home”. President Trump also advises that we continue this “social distancing” until May. These are trying times…times for personal reflection, Bible study, devotion and prayer. Pastor Zietlow (608-408-7830 talk/text) and our E/SJ Elders are available for emergency home visits. Please reach out to them directly.

Elders:

Darrell Buchholz at E – (608) 215-7871, darrell.buchholz@gmail.com

Jerre Duerr at SJ – (608) 697-8706, jerre.asc@gmail.com

Jim Eisermann at SJ – (608) 297-8171, jay.diane.eisermann@gmail.com

Wayne Stelter at E – (608) 297-2761, shieldscreamery@gmail.com

James Wachholz at SJ – (608) 369-2635, lwmsreporter@stjohnsmontello.org

In Jesus Christ our loving, protecting, crucified & risen Savior,

Pastor Pete Zietlow (608-408-7830 talk/text & ZietlowPL6@hotmail.com)

“The Lord knows the way that I take, and when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.”

(Job 23:10)

Dear School Children & Families:

BULLETIN- April 26, 2020- 3rd Sunday Easter

April 26, 2020April 26, 2020 lillyk24

The 3^rd Sunday of Easter

April 26, 2020

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 thankfulness of praise.

P: Christ is risen!

C: He is risen, indeed! Alleluia!

HYMN 152: 1,5,7,8 I Know that My Redeemer Lives

INVOCATION hymnal page 15

P: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

OPENING PRAYER hymnal page 10

CONFESSION & ABSOLUTION hymnal page 38

✠ T H E W O R D ✠

The Lord Jesus speaks to us in Scripture reading, preaching and song.

FIRST LESSON Acts 2:14a, 36-47

Summary: Christians live in joy of the risen Savior

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.

“Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.”

When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?”

Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”

With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.” Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

PSALM 67 hymnal page 91

*Read verses and sing refrains.

May God be gracious to us and bless us

And make his face shine upon us;

May your ways be know on earth,

Your salvation among all nations.

May the nations be glad and sing for joy

For you rule the peoples justly

And guide the nations of the earth.

Refrain

Then the land will yield its harvest,

And God, our God, will bless us.

God will bless us,

And all the ends of the earth will fear him.

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 1 Peter 1:17-21

Summary: God raised the lamb who shed his blood for us

Since you call on a Father who judges each person’s work impartially, live out your time as foreigners here in reverent fear. ¹⁸For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, ¹⁹but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. ²⁰He was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake. ²¹Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God.

VERSE OF THE DAY Luke 24:32

P: Alleluia. Alleluia. Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia. Our hearts were burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us. Alleluia.

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

GOSPEL LESSON Luke 24:13-35

Summary: The risen Lord revived the hopes of the Emmaus disciples

Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles^[^a^] from Jerusalem. They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; but they were kept from recognizing him.

He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?”

They stood still, their faces downcast. One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, “Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?”

“What things?” he asked.

“About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place. In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning but didn’t find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but they did not see Jesus.”

He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.

As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus continued on as if he were going farther. But they urged him strongly, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.” So he went in to stay with them.

When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?”

They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together and saying, “It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon.” Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread.

PRAYER OF THE DAY

O God, by the humiliation of your Son you lifted up this fallen world from the despair of death. By his resurrection to life, grant your faithful people gladness of heart and the hope of eternal joys; through your Son, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

SERMON HYMN 439 Lord, Take My Hand and Lead Me

SERMONETTE Luke 24:13-35

“Thrown for a loop!”

APOSTLES’ CREED

*Sung to the tune of CW 486 “Lord of Glory, You Have Bought Us”. See lyrics below.

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

EASTER SEASON PRAYER

*Read responsively.

P: O Lord God, our strength, our song, and our salvation, you fulfilled your promises by the

resurrection of your Son, Jesus Christ, from the dead.

C: Thanks be to God! You gave us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

P: In your compassion you sent Christ, the Good Shepherd, who laid down his life to rescue the lost.

C: Drive out all doubt and gloom that we may delight in your glorious triumph.

P: Lift our eyes heavenward to see him who lives to make intercession for the saints, and grant us confidence in the greatness of his power. Keep before us the vision of your redeemed people standing before your throne and singing the song of victory.

C: Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive wisdom and power and honor and glory and

praise.

P: Make us instruments of your peace as we bring the good news of hope and new life to those around us. Guide us in the use of all that you have entrusted to us: our time, our talents, and our treasures.

C: Risen Lord, live in us that we may live in you.

P: Merciful Lord Jesus, grant healing to the sick, and strengthen the faith of the suffering and the dying. Assure them of your abiding presence, and comfort them with the hope of eternal life.

Special prayers and intercessions may follow.

P: Hear us, Lord, as we bring you our private petitions.

Silent prayer.

P: Gracious Father, you have restored to us the joy of your salvation. With happy hearts, we come before you and say:

C: Alleluia! Thanks be to God! Amen.

LORD’S PRAYER hymnal page 43

CLOSING PRAYER hymnal page 43

BLESSING hymnal page 44

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.

Then Lord look on you with favor and + give you peace.

Amen.

CLOSING SOLO “Christ Is Risen! He’s Risen Indeed!” by Keith & Krysten Getty

*Soloist James Wachholz.

Announcements

Next week’s theme: May 3, 2020 The 4^th Sunday after Easter:

“The Risen Lord Is Our Good Shepherd”

COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Perhaps God will use this experience to lead us to never take public worship for granted again. I pray that God is also using this crisis to draw many in our nation to see the value of forgiveness, faith and the Word of God. As He tells us, “My Word will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” (Isaiah 55:11). If you know of someone who doesn’t have access to these on-line worship opportunities, please let us know. Call (608-297-2866) or email scsecretary@stjohnsmontello.org church/school secretary Ciara Neuhauser at the church office or leave a message.

– pray for God’s healing for those affected by the virus

– pray for those involved in essential services – medical personnel, first responders, and those who keep the peace

– share the links to our website and worship service with family, friends, and acquaintances

– renew our daily devotional life

– offer care and compassion for those who need support and a listening ear

Church elders, shepherd, trustees, other concerned members and Pastor Zietlow have been contacting all E/SJ members (via email, text, and phone) to make all aware of the situation, to offer alternatives for those who do not have a computer or internet access, and to offer any special assistance during these challenging times. Following our governor’s announcement on 3/24, all WI residents are to stay “Safe At Home”. President Trump also advises that we continue this “social distancing” until May. These are trying times…times for personal reflection, Bible study, devotion and prayer. Pastor Zietlow (608-408-7830 talk/text) and our E/SJ Elders are available for emergency home visits. Please reach out to them directly.

Elders:

Darrell Buchholz at E – (608) 215-7871, darrell.buchholz@gmail.com

Jerre Duerr at SJ – (608) 697-8706, jerre.asc@gmail.com

Jim Eisermann at SJ – (608) 297-8171, jay.diane.eisermann@gmail.com

Wayne Stelter at E – (608) 297-2761, shieldscreamery@gmail.com

James Wachholz at SJ – (608) 369-2635, lwmsreporter@stjohnsmontello.org

In Jesus Christ our loving, protecting, crucified & risen Savior,

Pastor Pete Zietlow (608-408-7830 talk/text & ZietlowPL6@hotmail.com)

“The Lord knows the way that I take, and when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.”

(Job 23:10)

* * * * * * * *

We Rejoice In The Risen Christ

The Third Sunday of Easter – A

God’s Word for Today

Most of our celebrations are very brief. The festival of Easter, however, inspires a certain “afterglow” that by God’s grace burns ever brighter as we celebrate anew each Sunday during the Easter season. Led by the Spirit to believe in the resurrected Lord, we rejoice in holy awe in this glorious truth and are filled with a desire to speak of our hope with others.

First Lesson (Acts 2:14a,36-47)

For whom is baptism intended?
Why could and did the first congregation: in Jerusalem continue to use the temple courts as a place to meet and worship?

Second Lesson (1 Peter 1:17-21)

Why does Peter encourage us to live as “strangers” while here on this earth?

Gospel (Luke 24:13-35)

Why do you think Jesus didn’t reveal his identity to the Emmaus disciples?
They had just told Jesus not to go on because of the approaching night. But once Jesus revealed himself, why did they quickly go back to Jerusalem?
What lessons can we learn from the account of the Emmaus disciples?

Answers:

Peter tells us that this means of grace is for all who hear his words. It is also for their children. It is also for those who were not there that day, including us. It is for all whom God has called or ever will call by the message which Peter proclaimed that day.
They met at the temple because it was the house of the Lord and they were the Lord’s people. It was the Father’s house and they were his children. They gathered there daily.
It will always be a temptation for Christians to set their hearts on what they can see⎯material things, institutions, approval from others, etc.. It is a lifelong struggle to learn that everything visible is perishable while what is not seen has lasting value. As Christians, we need to remember that we live in tents⎯temporary settings⎯because we are not yet home.
It gave the disciples the chance to openly confess their unbelieving doubts. Jesus was providing them the opportunity to learn from him again as he reviewed what the Scriptures had to say about the Messiah.
Their hearts were burning within them. They couldn’t keep the joy of this wonderful message to themselves, so they had to tell the others in Jerusalem.
We need exactly what they received from Jesus. Through the Word we too need a call to repentance because of our foolish and slow hearts. We need a renewed sense of joy that the message of Easter gives us so that with the wonder of our risen Savior before us, we are compelled to proclaim the Easter message to others.

* * * * * * * *

Dear School Children & Families:

How the Virus Stole Easter

A Poem by Kristi Bothur, inspired by Dr. Seuss, edited by Pastor Zietlow

Twas late in ‘19 when the virus began

Bringing chaos and fear to all people, each land.

People were sick, hospitals full,

Doctors overwhelmed, no one in school.

As winter gave way to the promise of spring,

The virus raged on, touching peasant and king.

People hid in their homes from the enemy unseen.

They YouTubed and Zoomed, social-distanced, and cleaned.

April approached and churches were closed.

“There won’t be an Easter,” the world supposed.

“There won’t be church services, and egg hunts are out.

No reason for new dresses when we can’t go about.”

Holy Week started, as bleak as the rest.

The world was focused on masks and on tests.

“Easter can’t happen this year,” it proclaimed.

“Online and at home, it just won’t be the same.”

Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, the days came and went.

The virus pressed on; it just would not relent.

The world woke Sunday and nothing had changed.

The virus still menaced, the people, estranged.

“Pooh pooh to the saints,” the world was grumbling.

“They’re finding out now that no Easter is coming.

“They’re just waking up! We know just what they’ll do!

Their mouths will hang open a minute or two,

And then all the saints will all cry boo-hoo.

“That noise,” said the world, “will be something to hear.”

So it paused and the world put a hand to its ear.

And it did hear a sound coming through all the skies.

It started down low, then it started to rise.

But the sound wasn’t depressed.

Why, this sound was triumphant!

It couldn’t be so!

But it grew with abundance!

The world stared around, popping its eyes.

Then it shook! What it saw was a shocking surprise!

Every saint in every nation, the tall and the small,

Was celebrating Jesus in spite of it all!

It hadn’t stopped Easter from coming! It came!

Somehow or other, it came just the same!

And the world with its life quite stuck in quarantine

Stood puzzling and puzzling.

“Just how can it be?”

“It came without bonnets, it came without bunnies,

It came without egg hunts, cantatas, or money.”

Then the world thought of something it hadn’t before.

“Maybe Easter,” it thought, “doesn’t come from a store.

Maybe Easter, perhaps, means a little bit more.”

The churches are empty – but so is the tomb,

And Jesus is victor over death, doom, and gloom.

So this year at Easter, let this be our prayer,

As the virus still rages all around, everywhere.

May the world see our hope when it looks at God’s people.

May the world see the church is no building or steeple.

May the world learn our faith that Jesus still lives,

And join us in hope his redemption now gives.

Bulletin- Emmanuel & St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Churches 4/19/20

April 18, 2020April 18, 2020 lillyk24

The 2^nd Sunday of Easter

April 19, 2020

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 thankfulness of praise.

P: Christ is risen!

C: He is risen, indeed! Alleluia!

OPENING HYMN 143: 1-3 He’s Risen, He’s Risen

INVOCATION hymnal page 15

M: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

OPENING PRAYER hymnal page 10

M: O Lord — our Maker, Redeemer, and Comforter — we are assembled in your presence to hear your holy Word. We pray that you would open our hearts by your Holy Spirit, that through the preaching of your Word we may repent of our sins, believe in Jesus, and grow day by day in grace and holiness. Hear us for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

CONFESSION & ABSOLUTION hymnal page 38

M: We have come into the presence of God, who created us to love and serve him as his dear children. But we have disobeyed him and deserve only his wrath and punishment. Therefore, let us confess our sins to him and plead for his mercy.

M: God, our heavenly Father, has forgiven all your sins. By the perfect life and innocent death of our Lord, Jesus Christ, he has removed your guilt forever. You are his own dear child. May God give you strength to live according to his will. Amen.

PSALM 16 hymnal page 68

*sung in unison.

Keep me safe, O God,

For in you I take refuge.

I said to the Lord, “You are my Lord;”

Apart from you I have no good thing.

I have set the Lord always before me,

Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.

Refrain

My heart is glad and my tongue rejoices;

My body also will rest secure,

Because you will not abandon me to the grave,

Nor will you let your Holy One see decay.

You have made known to me the path of life;

You will fill me with joy in your presence.

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

✠ T H E W O R D ✠

The Lord Jesus speaks to us in Scripture reading, preaching and song.

OLD TESTAMENT LESSON Acts 2:14a, 22-32

Summary: God’s Holy One (Jesus Christ) did not decay

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.

“Fellow Israelites, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know. This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross. But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him. David said about him: “‘I saw the Lord always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest in hope, because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead, you will not let your holy one see decay. You have made known to me the paths of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence.’

“Fellow Israelites, I can tell you confidently that the patriarch David died and was buried, and his tomb is here to this day. But he was a prophet and knew that God had promised him on oath that he would place one of his descendants on his throne. Seeing what was to come, he spoke of the resurrection of the Messiah, that he was not abandoned to the realm of the dead, nor did his body see decay. God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of it.

HYMN 165: 1-3 O Sons and Daughters of the King

1 O sons and daughters of the King,

Whom heav’nly hosts in glory sing,

Today the grace has lost its sting!

Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

2 On that first morning of the week

Before the day began to break,

The Marys went their Lord to seek.

Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

3 An angel bade their sorrow flee,

For thus he spoke unto the three,

“Your Lord will go to Galilee.”

Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

EPISTLE LESSON 1 Peter 1:3-9

Summary: Praise God for the blessings He gives us through the risen Lord

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

HYMN 165: 4-6 O Sons and Daughters of the King

4 That night th’ apostles met in fear;

Among them came their Lord most dear

And said, “Peace be unto you here.”

Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

5 When Thomas afterwards had heard

That Jesus had fulfilled his word,

He doubted that it was the Lord.

Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

6 “Thomas, behold my side,” said he,

“My hands, my feet, my body see;

And doubt not, but believe in me.”

Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

GOSPEL LESSON John 20:19-31 (today’s sermon text underlined)

Summary: Thomas hailed Jesus as Lord and God

On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.

Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”

Now Thomas (also known as Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!”

But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.”

A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.”

Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”

Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.

HYMN 165: 7-9 O Sons and Daughters of the King

7 No longer Thomas then denied;

He saw the feet, the hands, the side;

“You are my Lord and God,” he cried.

Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

8 Blessed are they that have not seen

And yet whose faith has constant been;

In life eternal they shall reign

Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

9 On this most holy day of days

To God your hearts and voices raise

In laud and jubilee and praise.

Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

PRAYER OF THE DAY

O risen Lord, you came to your disciples and took away their fears with your word of peace. Come to us also by your Word and sacrament, and banish our fears with the comforting assurance of your abiding presence; for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

SERMONETTE John 20: 24-31

“Seeing Is Believing”

VERSE OF THE DAY John 20:29b

Alleluia. Alleluia. Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed. Alleluia.

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

APOSTLES’ CREED hymnal page 41

I believe in God, the Father almighty, maker or 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.

PRAYER OF THE CHURCH

*Read responsively.

P: Risen Savior, we come to you in our weakness. We turn to you in our time of need. We place before you the disease present in our world. Bring wisdom to doctors. Give understanding to scientists. Endow caregivers with compassion. Bring healing to those who are ill. Protect those who are most at risk. Give comfort to those who have lost a loved one. Stabilize our communities. Unite us in our compassion. Remove all fear from our hearts. Fill us with confidence in your care. Lord, in your mercy,

C: hear our prayer.

P: Risen Savior, use this pandemic to remind us that sickness and death are symptoms of the greater problem of sin. Fill our hearts with joy that through your death you have healed our souls, and in your resurrection you have granted us the hope of a life that death cannot overcome. Give us the courage to share our Easter faith, so that this news of healing and redemption might spread far and wide. Lord, in your mercy,

C: hear our prayer.

P: Risen Savior, in this time of isolation, give us comfort and assurance that you hear our prayers and our praise raised together with the saints and angels. The whole Church in heaven and on earth thanks you for your great victory. Lord, in your mercy,

C: hear our prayer.

P: Risen Savior, we ask you to grant strength and wisdom to our president, the Congress of these United States, and all state and local officials. May their labors for our nation’s health and welfare not be in vain. May their actions demonstrate compassion for the vulnerable, aging and unemployed. Lord, in your mercy,

C: hear our prayer.

P: Risen Savior, fill us with the fire of your love, that in the difficult days and weeks ahead we may see your face in our neighbor’s face and serve you by serving them. Grant to us the willingness to bear any burden or make any sacrifice for the well-being of others. Lord, in your mercy,

C: hear our prayer.

P: Risen Savior, you have opened up for us the way to eternal life. Embolden us by your resurrection to be fearless in the face of disease, chaos, loneliness and every sorrow of this world. Our Redeemer lives, and so we know that we too shall be resurrected and glorified to live with him and one another in an eternal Kingdom. Lord, in your mercy,

C: hear our prayer.

P: INTERCESSORY PRAYERS (listed on bulletin page 15)

C: THE LORD’S PRAYER: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed by 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.

P: BLESSING Now may the glorious Father, who by his power raised our Lord Jesus Christ from the dead, give you the Spirit of wisdom to know the hope to which he has called you. And may he preserve you in body, soul, and spirit until our own resurrection on the day of Christ Jesus. Amen.

P: Christ is risen!

C: He is risen indeed! Alleluia!

CLOSING PRAYER hymnal page 43

BLESSING hymnal page 44

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.

Then Lord look on you with favor and + give you peace.

Amen.

CLOSING HYMN 162 He is Arisen! Glorious Word!

*Soloist James Wachholz.

Announcements

Next week’s theme: April 26, 2020 The 3^rd Sunday after Easter:

“The Risen Lord Brings Hope”

COVID-19 PANDEMIC

For the past month now, our nation’s “Safe At Home” social distancing mandate has changed how we live and how God feeds and leads us with his Word. However, we need to remember that the power of God’s Word and the comfort of the gospel is not diminished by the way it is delivered. You will hear law and gospel. You will be assured of Christ’s forgiveness. Your faith will be nourished and our trust in God’s unchanging promises will be strengthened.

Every Saturday at 11am (either at Emmanuel at St. John’s) we will record an abbreviated service that will be uploaded to our website <www.stjohnsmontello.org> & linked You Tube channel together with a bulletin file available for viewing at your convenience. These services will also be available via DVD, printed sermon & bulletin mailings. Many thanks to those helping with our recorded services including: Darrell Buchholz, Pastor John Dolan, Kerry Mann, Rachel Naumann, Ciara Neuhauser, Lynn Sellnow, Lucas Stelter, James Wachholz and Lauren Zietlow. And many thanks to Larry & Lynn Sellnow for recording Wednesday school chapel devotions.

– pray for God’s healing for those affected by the virus

– pray for those involved in essential services – medical personnel, first responders, and those who keep the peace

– share the links to our website and worship service with family, friends, and acquaintances

– renew our daily devotional life

– offer care and compassion for those who need support and a listening ear

Church elders, shepherd, trustees, other concerned members and Pastor Zietlow have been contacting all E/SJ members (via email, text, and phone) to make all aware of the situation, to offer alternatives for those who do not have a computer or internet access, and to offer any special assistance during these challenging times. Following our governor’s announcement on 3/24, all WI residents are to stay “Safe At Home”. President Trump also advises that we continue this “social distancing” until May. These are trying times, times for personal reflection, Bible study, devotion and prayer. Pastor Zietlow (608-408-7830 talk/text) and our E/SJ Elders are available for emergency home visits. Please reach out to them directly.

Elders:

Darrell Buchholz at E – (608) 215-7871, darrell.buchholz@gmail.com

Jerre Duerr at SJ – (608) 697-8706, jerre.asc@gmail.com

Jim Eisermann at SJ – (608) 297-8171, jay.diane.eisermann@gmail.com

Wayne Stelter at E – (608) 297-2761, shieldscreamery@gmail.com

James Wachholz at SJ – (608) 369-2635, lwmsreporter@stjohnsmontello.org

In Jesus Christ our loving, protecting, crucified & risen Savior,

Pastor Pete Zietlow (608-408-7830 talk/text & ZietlowPL6@hotmail.com)

“The Lord knows the way that I take, and when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.”

(Job 23:10)

* * * * * * * *

Our Hope Is Certain In The Risen Christ

The Second Sunday of Easter – A

God’s Word for Today

Today we have the sure testimony of the resurrection before us. Our Savior’s resurrection is validated through the Holy Scriptures and by the eyewitness accounts of those who personally saw him. Our faith holds unto these clear testimonies and places confidence in the sure hope of Jesus Christ, our risen Savior. In faith we look beyond the troubles of this world to the glories of the next. It is in that blessed hope that we now live each day.

First Lesson (Acts 2:14a,22-32)

What was the purpose of the miracles that Jesus performed?
What do the words quoted from Psalm 16 teach us about death?

Second Lesson (1 Peter 1:3-9)

What does Peter mean when he says we have a “living hope”? (v. 3)

Gospel (John 20:19-31)

What greater meaning did the common greeting, “Peace be with you!”, take on when spoken by Jesus that first Easter evening?
What comfort was gained when Jesus showed the nail marks?
What did Thomas confess?

Answers:

Peter said that those works were God’s certification that Jesus came from God and did God’s work. Those works bore witness that Jesus’ message was God’s message. They attested to the fact that he was the promised Messiah.
As David, we too can be filled with joy and hope confident that God will not simply leave our bodies to decay in the grave. We are one of God’s “holy ones” certain of the joys of eternal life.
Our attention is once again directed to the empty tomb. While many religions hold out a hope of either blessings here on this earth or in the hereafter to their hearers, that hope is acquired as one earns them. Thus, one can never be sure and their hope is tainted. A Christian’s hope is a “living hope” because it is founded on Christ, our Savior, who has conquered sin and death, and has given us the sure promise of eternal life.
With the word peace, Jesus is proclaiming what he was giving to the world, through his crucifixion and resurrection. It wasn’t the shallow peace that the world frantically seeks, but rather peace with God, which comes to us through the forgiveness of sins, life and salvation won for us through Christ, our Savior.
It absolutely proves that he wasn’t a ghost. The nail marks also were a visible reminder of the forgiveness that was theirs through Christ.
After having struggled with doubt earlier, he now boldly confessed that Jesus is the one true and eternal God. Thomas confessed that Jesus was indeed his gracious Savior. Jesus had overcome the doubt and unbelief of Thomas.

* * * * * * * *

QUARANTINE PRAYER CHECKLIST √

Use This List To Pray Every Day

Praise God for His mighty power and perfect love.
Thank God for promising to always be with us.
Ask God to heal those who are sick.
Ask God to comfort those who are afraid.
Ask God to protect those in the medical field.
Ask God to give leaders wisdom.
Ask God to forgive your sins and heal our nation.
Ask God to use the church to share His love.
Ask God to bring revival through this time.
Read Psalms 121 out loud to close out your prayer time.

Dear Members of St. John’s and Emmanuel,

I assume the present situation has changed your plans for when you will be celebrating the 90^th anniversary of the school, but I wanted to let you know I was thinking of that special milestone as April 19 approaches. Perhaps you are also doing something on that day.

Either way, I join you in thanking God that he has allowed you carry on this ministry for all these decades, and I also express my personal gratitude that I was able to personally benefit from your devotion to Christian education.

My family moved to Montello in the summer of 1964 as I was about to begin second grade. I don’t remember all the details, but I know that for some period of time we went to school at the “old public school” on the top of the hill, while the construction of our new school was being finalized. It was especially a treat to get into that new gym! Many us had a lot of fun in that gym, especially with Mr. Mateske and Mr. Runke developing us into such good basketball teams for our little school.

I believe Mrs. Griepentrog, Mrs. Wilkens and Mr. Runke were our teachers in those first years. A few years later my mom began teaching kindergarten. I always appreciated the opportunity to learn in multiple-grade classrooms. When we were younger, we could “learn ahead” from the older kids, and when we were older, we could help teach the younger ones. It really helped us become a family of learners. The one thing that stymied me, though, was Grade 7-8 Science. To this day I think that Grade 7-8 Science workbook was the most difficult textbook I ever encountered in school!

Another special memory was our morning devotions and all the singing we did. Some of us older kids were able to go into Mrs. Wilkens’ room to play the piano for her devotions. We also were able to be part of the Junior Choir. We sang in many worship services. During a spring or early summer Sunday worship service we had a concert at which we sang all the songs we had sung during the course of the church year. We also sang for a number of funerals. It was quite an experience to sit in the balcony and observe the comfort given to families that their loved one was in heaven because of the work of Jesus.

Our confirmation class was held in the church basement at that time, with my dad writing his notes on an old chalkboard. I remember that we had to know the answers to almost every single question in the Catechism for our Examination! On Confirmation Day I received a hymnal from my parents, engraved with the date April 4, 1971. I have always tried to reflect on that special day – and my Confirmation verse from Romans 1:16 (“I am not ashamed of the gospel…”) at the many confirmation services I have been able to be part of since that time.

In a way it seems appropriate that you should be observing this anniversary during a time of uncertainty. After all, one of God’s messages to us is that everything about this life is uncertain. Certainty certainly comes from knowing we have a God whose love never changes, because the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus are always exactly what we need for comfort and for peace and for joy.

I thank God that my siblings and I were strengthened in that certainty of forgiveness and eternal life as students at St. John’s Lutheran School. I praise God that that message was shared with us, and I know that message continues to be shared and proclaimed today.

God bless you as you join in that praise to God for yourselves, as well. And if you going to be doing so officially at a later date, then praise God all the more for when he lets everyone get together!

In Our Risen and Ruling Lord,

David Kolander

St. John’s Lutheran School, Class of 1971

Bulletin- Easter Sunday April 12, 2020

April 10, 2020April 11, 2020 lillyk24

The Foundation of our Faith: The Resurrection

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Easter Sunday

April 12, 2020

Emmanuel & St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Churches

Welcome To Our Church We extend a warm welcome to everyone viewing our recorded worship service today. The bulletin includes the complete order of service, hymns, Bible readings and announcements. For those without internet access to our website <stjohnsmontello.org>, DVDs and written sermons plus the bulletin may be mailed. Just phone secretary Ciara Neuhauser at the church office (608) 297-2866 or contact Pastor Zietlow (talk or text) at (608) 408-7830.

Online Service, Printed Bulletin or Split Screen If you’re watching our worship services on-line and want to also follow along with the bulletin, you can just print the bulletin and follow it as you view the recorded worship service. Or, you can do a “split screen.” This means you would click the menu button on the top right corner of your screen, click “new window” and then open a second window to our website and recorded service page. Click “bulletin can be accessed here” and now you have two windows. Make each window half-size, so that you have a split screen–one side for the service and one side for the bulletin.

P: Christ is risen!

C: He is risen, indeed! Alleluia!

Congregational Hymn 157 Jesus Christ is Risen Today

Easter Litany

P: Christ is risen!

C: He is risen, indeed! Alleluia!

P: The stone has been rolled away.

C: The tomb is empty.

P: The women have told the disciples.

C: The disciples have come to see.

P: The Lord lives,

C: Never to die again.

P: The victory has been won.

C: Death has been defeated.

P: The stone has been rolled away.

C: Our faith is built on this foundation.

1^st Reading: The Wise and Foolish Builders Matthew 7:24-27 “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.”

Confession and Absolution

P: Though our faith is built on the rock-solid foundation of our risen Savior, Jesus Christ, there are times when we hear his words but do not do them. It is then that our lives are built on that faulty foundation of our own weak and sinful nature. For that, we must repent and confess our sin to our Savior who paid the price, hears our confession and then forgives.

C: Most merciful God, we confess that our very nature is sinful. We do not love you with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. We do not love our neighbors as ourselves. Far too often we trust in our own willpower and resolve rather than the firm foundation of a Savior crucified and risen again for us. We fail to do what you command and do the things that you detest. We deserve to have our spiritual houses destroyed for lack of a firm foundation. Forgive us, most holy God.

P: The stone was rolled away from the tomb, and the death and resurrection of Jesus have become the source of infinite forgiveness from the God who loves and saves. He hears our plea and responds by washing away our sin in the flood of his mercy. Therefore, all of our sins are forgiven in the name of the Father and of the + Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Hymn of Response 152v1 I Know That My Redeemer Lives

I know that my Redeemer lives;

What comfort this sweet sentence gives!

He lives, he lives, who once was dead:

He lives my ever-living Head!

The Prayer of the Day

Heavenly Father, you have laid the perfect foundation for us in the death and resurrection of your beloved Son, Jesus our Savior. Grant that our faith would ever be founded on this firm foundation and that we would hear your words and do them. Amen.

2^nd Reading: Isaiah 28:16

So this is what the Sovereign Lord says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who relies on it will never be stricken with panic.”

3^rd Reading: 1 Corinthians 3:10-22

By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care. For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work. If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward. If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss but yet will be saved—even though only as one escaping through the flames. Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy that person; for God’s temple is sacred, and you together are that temple. Do not deceive yourselves. If any of you think you are wise by the standards of this age, you should become “fools” so that you may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight. As it is written: “He catches the wise in their craftiness”; and again, “The Lord knows that the thoughts of the wise are futile.” So then, no more boasting about human leaders! All things are yours, whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or the present or the future—all are yours.

Verse of the Day: Alleluia. Alleluia. Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia. This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Alleluia. Psalm 118:24

Congregational Hymn, “This is the Day the Lord Has Made,” Hymn 225, verses 1 & 2

This is the day the Lord has made;

He calls the hours his own.

Let Heav’n rejoice; her earth be glad

And praise surround the throne.

Today he rose and left the dead,

And Satan’s empire fell; Today the saints his triumphs spread

And all his wonders tell.

Gospel Reading: Jesus Has Risen Mark 16:1-8

P: When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus’ body. Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb and they asked each other, “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?” But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away. As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed. “Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. But go, tell his disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.’” Trembling and bewildered, the women went out and fled from the tomb. They said nothing to anyone, because they were afraid.

Congregational Hymn, “My Hope is Built on Nothing Less,” Hymn 382, Verse 1

My hope is built on nothing less

Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness;

I dare to make no other claim

But wholly lean on Jesus’ name.

On Christ, the solid rock, I stand;

All other ground is sinking sand.

4^th Reading: The parable of the wise and foolish builders in our 1^st Scripture reading is a well known teaching from the Sermon on the Mount. At one level Jesus’ meaning is obvious. You build on a solid foundation if you want what you build to stand. Obeying Jesus’ words provides just such a solid foundation. However, Jesus uses symbolic elements in this picture to give it a deeper and richer meaning. The Bible portrays floods and winds as forces that brought chaos and could only be controlled by God. Jesus uses them as a metaphor to describe the causes of calamity that could overtake a person or even a nation. When illness hits or relationships falter; when we fail utterly or lose our job or do something really stupid and face the consequences for it, we feel our lives are falling apart. Fair-weather foundations do not hold up—only Jesus is faithful.

Congregational Hymn, “My Hope is Built on Nothing Less,” Hymn 382, Verse 2

When darkness veils his lovely face,

I rest on his unchanging grace; In ev’ry high and stormy gale My anchor holds within the veil.

On Christ, the solid rock, I stand;

All other ground is sinking sand.

5^th Reading: Moses describes God himself as “The Rock” in Deuteronomy 32:4. The Hebrews understood this. God was their sure place of refuge and strong tower against the enemy. In our 2^nd Scripture reading, Isaiah tells us that God has laid “a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation.” And that “the one who relies on it will never be stricken with panic.” We are safe and secure with Jesus.

Congregational Hymn, “My Hope is Built on Nothing Less,” Hymn 382, Verse 3

His oath, his covenant and blood

Support me in the raging flood;

When ev’ry earthly prop gives way,

He then is all my hope and stay.

On Christ, the solid rock, I stand; All other ground is sinking sand.

6^th Reading: Christ is laid for a foundation, and everything besides Christ is sand. Some build their hopes upon worldly prosperity—making a lot of money or collecting a lot of stuff; others upon becoming well-known and respected, or competing and winning. Some build a life on being healthy or happy or smart, or build it on an outward profession of religion or their own goodness. But all is sand, too weak to bear our hopes of heaven. First, and foremost, the resurrection of Jesus paves the way to life beyond death for all who believe in him. Jesus can be trusted. Jesus said he would suffer, die, and then rise in three days, and he did! May the risen Lord make us wise builders.

Congregational Hymn, “My Hope is Built on Nothing Less,” Hymn 382, Verse 4

When he shall come with trumpet sound, Oh, may I then in him be found,

Clothed in his righteousness alone, Faultless to stand before his throne.

On Christ, the solid rock, I stand; All other ground is sinking sand.

Sermon Text: Revelation 19: 11-16

I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and wages war. His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. Coming out of his mouth is a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. “He will rule them with an iron scepter.” He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.

Sermon Theme:

“The Son of God Goes Forth to War – VICTORY!”

Prayers

P: When the rains fall and the floods come, O Lord,

C: we build our house on you, our Rock.

P: God, who lays the firm foundation for our faith, we give you thanks for the glorious resurrection of your Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. He gave his life, laid in the tomb, and rose from the dead so that our salvation is secure and our faith is firm. When the rains fall and the floods come, O Lord, we build our house on you, our Rock.

C: Father, use your people to make a firm foundation for this nation, so that we live in peace and serve others to the glory of your name, Be with our elected leaders that they would see in you the source of all hope, courage and strength. When the rains fall and the floods come, O Lord, we build our house on you, our Rock.

P: Lord Jesus, be the bedrock of your church wherever your Word is preached and your Sacraments are given to the faithful as gifts from your hand. Use this church to be a foundation of renewal in this community so that many will know of your eternal love and your overwhelming forgiveness. When the rains fall and the floods come, O Lord, we build our house on you, our Rock.

C: God, our Creator, for those who are facing storms in their life due to illness or disease, be their source of healing and hope. Provide caregivers, medicine and medical personnel to be your instruments of help. When the rains fall and the floods come, O Lord, we build our house on you, our Rock.

P: God, who lays the firm foundation of our faith, today we look forward to the resurrection of the dead when we will rejoin all those who have gone before us in the faith. We especially ask that our faith would be firm, as was theirs, so that we would be lasting witnesses of your resurrection story. When the rains fall and the floods come, O Lord, C: we build our house on you, our Rock. Amen.

We join together in the Lord’s Prayer.

Benediction

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.

All: Amen

Closing Hymn, “Jesus Lives! The Victory’s Won,” Hymn 145

Announcements

WORSHIP CHANGE

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

Yes, this is definitely a change from what we’re used to. Wisconsin’s state directive “Safer At Home” has changed how we will worship, for now. We need to remember that the power of God’s Word and the comfort of the gospel is not diminished by the way it is delivered. You will hear law and gospel. You will be assured of Christ’s forgiveness. Your faith will be nourished and our trust in God’s unchanging promises will be strengthened.

– pray for God’s healing for those affected by the virus

– pray for those involved in essential services – medical personnel, first responders, and those who keep the peace

– share the links to our website and worship service with family, friends, and acquaintances

– renew our daily devotional life

– offer care and compassion for those who need support and a listening ear

Church elders, shepherd, trustees, other concerned members and Pastor Zietlow have begun contacting all E/SJ members (via email, text, and phone) to make all aware of the situation, to offer alternatives for those who do not have a computer or internet access, and to offer any special assistance during these challenging times. Following our governor’s announcement on 3/24, all WI residents are to “stay safe at home”. President Trump also advises that we continue this “social distancing” until May. These are trying times..times for personal reflection, Bible study, devotion and prayer. Pastor Zietlow (608-408-7830 talk/text) and our E/SJ Elders are available for emergency home visits. Please reach out to them directly.

Elders:

Darrell Buchholz at E –

(608) 215-7871, darrell.buchholz@gmail.com

Jerre Duerr at SJ –

(608) 697-8706, jerre.asc@gmail.com

Jim Eisermann at SJ –

(608) 297-8171, jay.diane.eisermann@gmail.com

Wayne Stelter at E –

(608) 297-2761, shieldscreamery@gmail.com

James Wachholz at SJ –

(608) 369-2635, lwmsreporter@stjohnsmontello.org

In Jesus Christ our loving & protecting Savior,

Pastor Pete Zietlow

(608-408-7830 talk/text & ZietlowPL6@hotmail.com)

“The Lord knows the way that I take, and when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.” (Job 23:10)

* * * * * *

Good Friday- April 10, 2020

April 8, 2020April 8, 2020 lillyk24

O for sinners slain,
“Father forgive”, cries the Son –
Worthy Lamb of God!

April 10, 2020

Emmanuel & St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Churches

Hymn: Oh, Perfect Life of Love (Christian Worship #138)

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Gospel Affirmations (Based on Words from Scripture)

God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life.
Christ died for sins once and for all, the righteous for unrighteous, that he might bring us to God.
God did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all.
Greater love has no man than this that he lay down his life for his friends.

Prayer of Invocation

Almighty God, our heavenly Father, who sent your Son to become the Savor of the world; today, in spirit we wait in the shadows of the cross as we worship together. We see ourselves in the faces of those who were around him as he was crucified. Forbid it that we should be in the company of those who mocked him and ridiculed him; challenge us that we might be more faithful witnesses to the fact that his Spirit lives and reigns within our hearts, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

The Good Friday Gospel According to St. John 19

So they took Jesus away. ¹⁷Carrying his own cross, he went out to what is called the Place of a Skull, which in Aramaic is called Golgotha. ¹⁸There they crucified him with two others, one on each side, and Jesus in the middle.¹⁹Pilate also had a notice written and fastened on the cross. It read, “Jesus the Nazarene, the King of the Jews.” ²⁰Many of the Jews read this notice, because the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and it was written in Aramaic, Latin, and Greek. ²¹So the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate, “Do not write, ‘The King of the Jews,’ but that ‘this man said, “I am the King of the Jews.”’” ²²Pilate answered, “What I have written, I have written.”

²³When the soldiers crucified Jesus, they took his clothes and divided them into four parts, one part for each soldier. They also took his tunic, which was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom. ²⁴So they said to one another, “Let’s not tear it. Instead, let’s cast lots to see who gets it.” This was so that the Scripture might be fulfilled which says: They divided my garments among them and cast lots for my clothing.So the soldiers did these things.

²⁵Jesus’ mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene were standing near the cross. ²⁶When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Woman, here is your son!” ²⁷Then he said to the disciple, “Here is your mother!” And from that time this disciple took her into his own home.

²⁸After this, knowing that everything had now been finished, and to fulfill the Scripture, Jesus said, “I thirst.” ²⁹A jar full of sour wine was sitting there. So they put a sponge soaked in sour wine on a hyssop branch and held it to his mouth. ³⁰When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished!” Then, bowing his head, he gave up his spirit.

Hymn: Were You There (Christian Worship #119)

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Message: The Son of God Goes Forth to War: The Greatest Battle Ever Fought

Matthew 27:45-50

⁵From the sixth hour until the ninth hour, there was darkness over all the land. ⁴⁶About the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?” which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”⁴⁷When some of those standing there heard this, they said, “This fellow is calling for Elijah.” ⁴⁸Immediately one of them ran, took a sponge, and soaked it with sour wine. Then he put it on a stick and gave him a drink. ⁴⁹The rest said, “Leave him alone. Let’s see if Elijah comes to save him.” ⁵⁰After Jesus cried out again with a loud voice, he gave up his spirit.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, you are a just God who accepts nothing less than perfection. All too often we fail to realize how much our sins offend you. We forget that the wages of sin truly is death. We forget that there is a hell. Lead us to recognize the seriousness of our sinfulness. Lead us also to admit our inability to make things right with you. Teach us to look to you as the only one who can make us just and right. Today we are reminded not only of your justice but also of your love. You did not spare your own Son but gave him as a ransom for each one of us. Comfort us with the knowledge of this great love. Give us the peace that the forgiveness of sins brings. When we feel our guilt, point us to the cross, where our guilt was washed away in Jesus’ blood.

Lord Jesus, we thank you for paying the debt that we could not pay. We thank you for coming to earth so that we could be with you forever in heaven. For being our perfect substitute, we thank you, Lord Jesus. Son of God, you offered up your body as an unblemished sacrifice for sin and commended your spirit into the hands of your Father. Teach us to cast the cares of this brief life on our heavenly Father and commit our bodies and souls to his love. Give us the courage to face death, knowing that it is the gate to our home in heaven. Hear us, Lord, as we offer our personal thanks for the forgiveness that you have given us and for the home that you have won for us.

Private Petitions

The cross was once an instrument of death. It is now a sign of life. Dear Savior, we humbly kneel at the cross in awe of your power and of your love. Amen.

Closing Word – Psalm 22

¹My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?
My groaning does nothing to save me.
²My God, I call out by day, but you do not answer.
I call out by night, but there is no relief for me.

⁶But I am a worm and not a man,
scorned by men and despised by the people.
⁷All who see me mock me. They sneer.
They shake their heads.
⁸They say, “Trust in the Lord.”
“Let the Lord deliver him.
Let him rescue him, if he delights in him.”

¹⁵My strength is dried up like broken pottery,
and my tongue is stuck to the roof of my mouth.
They have piercedmy hands and my feet.
¹⁷I can count all my bones.
They stare and gloat over me.
¹⁸They divide my garments among them.
For my clothing they cast lots.

¹⁹But you, O Lord, do not be distant.
O my Strength, come quickly to help me.
²³You who fear the Lord, praise him!
²⁴For he has not despised nor detested the affliction of the afflicted.
He has not hidden his face from him,
but when he cried out to him, he heard.
²⁷All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the Lord,
and all the families of the nations will bow down before you.
²⁸For the kingdom belongs to the Lord,
and he rules over the nations.
²⁹All the rich of the earth will eat and bow down.
All who go down to the dust will kneel before him—
those who cannot keep themselves alive.
³⁰Descendants will serve him.
For generations people will be told about the Lord.
³¹They will come and proclaim his righteousness
to a people yet to be born— because he has done it.

Hymn: Rest, O Christ, From All Your Labor (CWS#718)

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2nd Reading: Isaiah 28:16

So this is what the Sovereign Lord says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who relies on it will never be stricken with panic.”

3rd Reading: 1 Corinthians 3:10-22

Gospel Reading: Jesus Has Risen Mark 16:1-8

Congregational Hymn, “My Hope is Built on Nothing Less,” Hymn 382, Verse 1

My hope is built on nothing less

Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness;

I dare to make no other claim

But wholly lean on Jesus’ name.

On Christ, the solid rock, I stand;

All other ground is sinking sand.

When darkness veils his lovely face,

I rest on his unchanging grace; In ev’ry high and stormy gale My anchor holds within the veil.

On Christ, the solid rock, I stand;

All other ground is sinking sand.

Congregational Hymn, “My Hope is Built on Nothing Less,” Hymn 382, Verse 3

His oath, his covenant and blood

Support me in the raging flood;

When ev’ry earthly prop gives way,

He then is all my hope and stay.

On Christ, the solid rock, I stand; All other ground is sinking sand.

Congregational Hymn, “My Hope is Built on Nothing Less,” Hymn 382, Verse 4

When he shall come with trumpet sound, Oh, may I then in him be found,

Clothed in his righteousness alone, Faultless to stand before his throne.

On Christ, the solid rock, I stand; All other ground is sinking sand.

Prayers

P: When the rains fall and the floods come, O Lord,

C: we build our house on you, our Rock.

C: God, our Creator, for those who are facing storms in their life due to illness or disease, be their source of healing and hope. Provide caregivers, medicine and medical personnel to be your instruments of help. When the rains fall and the floods come, O Lord, we build our house on you, our Rock.

Closing Hymn, “Jesus Lives! The Victory’s Won,” Hymn 145

2^nd Reading: Isaiah 28:16

3^rd Reading: 1 Corinthians 3:10-22