St. Peter's Helenville

This Sermon's Focus: What if life isn’t just random chaos… but a mission with an eternal ending already secured?In this episode of the St. Peter’s Helenville Podcast, we dive into 1 Peter 1:3–9 and explore what it means to “play the game of life” with a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Using themes inspired by Jumanji, this message wrestles with suffering, second chances, fear, faith, and the promise that in Christ, failure and death never get the final word.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by trials, exhausted by the struggle, or wondered how to keep going when life gets hard, this episode is for you. Discover the unshakable inheritance waiting for God’s people and why the resurrection changes everything about how we live today.The Sermon Text: 1 Peter 1:3-9Praise 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, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, 5 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. 6 In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7 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. 8 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, 9 for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

This Sermon's Focus:What would it have been like to stand at the empty tomb through the eyes of Mary Magdalene? In this episode of From the Eyes of Those Who Were There…, we step into the story of a woman once trapped in darkness, delivered by Jesus, and forever changed by his love. From the agony of the cross to the despair of the empty tomb, Mary believed she had lost everything—until the risen Jesus spoke a single word: “Mary.” Discover the hope, identity, and new life found in the voice of the Savior who still calls each of us by name and invites us to run out of our graves and into the joy of his resurrection.Sermon Texts: Luke 8:1-3, Matthew 28:1-10 Luke 8:1-3After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him, 2 and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; 3 Joanna the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod’s household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means.Matthew 28:1-1028 After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb.2 There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. 4 The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.5 The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.”8 So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9 Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”The video material was kindly provided by HikingFex.com.https://www.hikingfex.com/en/videos

Sermon Texts: Hebrews 11:13–16All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance, admitting that they were foreigners and strangers on earth. 14People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. 15If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. 16Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore, God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.Job 19:25–27 I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; I myself will see him with my own eyes—I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!

Sermon Focus: From the Eyes of JesusWe’ve seen Jesus through their eyes—Peter, Judas, Mary, the Centurion. Ordinary people standing in extraordinary moments. But now… we turn the lens. What did Jesus see as the crowds shouted “crucify”? What was on His mind as He carried the cross? This week, we step into the most powerful perspective of all—the eyes of the Savior.Sermon Text: Luke 23:26–32As the soldiers led him away, they seized Simon from Cyrene, who was on his way in from the country, and put the cross on him and made him carry it behind Jesus. 27 A large number of people followed him, including women who mourned and wailed for him. 28 Jesus turned and said to them, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me; weep for yourselves and for your children. 29 For the time will come when you will say, ‘Blessed are the childless women, the wombs that never bore and the breasts that never nursed!’ 30 Then“‘they will say to the mountains, “Fall on us!”    and to the hills, “Cover us!”’31 For if people do these things when the tree is green, what will happen when it is dry?”32 Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with him to be executed.

Sermon Focus: Christ Must be the Cornerstone of Every House of GodWhat does it really mean for Christ to be the cornerstone? In a world—and even in churches—where Jesus can become just one voice among many, this message calls us back to something deeper. From Ephesians 2, we’re reminded that Christ is not an add-on, not a helpful influence, but the very foundation everything else stands on. When He is truly the cornerstone, He doesn’t just support the structure—He defines it. This sermon challenges us to examine what we’re really building on… and invites us to center everything on the One who holds it all together.Sermon Text: Ephesians 2:19–22Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. 21 In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. 22 And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.This sermon and the subsequent speech by Richard Pfeifer were delivered for the rededication service of St. Peter's Lutheran Church after the renovation and expansion of our facility on top of the hill. Thank you to Richard Pfeifer for delivering a special poem for the occasion!

Sermon Focus:What if the very thing you’re afraid to hope for… is exactly what God is calling you to believe? In this powerful message from 2 Kings, we walk with a grieving mother whose miracle child is suddenly taken from her—and watch as God does the unthinkable. This sermon wrestles with the fear of disappointment, the pain of shattered expectations, and the bold invitation God gives anyway: get your hopes up. Because in a world where death feels final, our God still raises the dead—and promises that this is not the end of your story.Sermon Text: 2 Kings 4:17-37But the woman became pregnant, and the next year about that same time she gave birth to a son, just as Elisha had told her.18 The child grew, and one day he went out to his father, who was with the reapers. 19 He said to his father, “My head! My head!”His father told a servant, “Carry him to his mother.” 20 After the servant had lifted him up and carried him to his mother, the boy sat on her lap until noon, and then he died. 21 She went up and laid him on the bed of the man of God, then shut the door and went out.22 She called her husband and said, “Please send me one of the servants and a donkey so I can go to the man of God quickly and return.”23 “Why go to him today?” he asked. “It’s not the New Moon or the Sabbath.”“That’s all right,” she said.24 She saddled the donkey and said to her servant, “Lead on; don’t slow down for me unless I tell you.” 25 So she set out and came to the man of God at Mount Carmel.When he saw her in the distance, the man of God said to his servant Gehazi, “Look! There’s the Shunammite! 26 Run to meet her and ask her, ‘Are you all right? Is your husband all right? Is your child all right?’”“Everything is all right,” she said.27 When she reached the man of God at the mountain, she took hold of his feet. Gehazi came over to push her away, but the man of God said, “Leave her alone! She is in bitter distress, but the Lord has hidden it from me and has not told me why.”28 “Did I ask you for a son, my lord?” she said. “Didn’t I tell you, ‘Don’t raise my hopes’?”29 Elisha said to Gehazi, “Tuck your cloak into your belt, take my staff in your hand and run. Don’t greet anyone you meet, and if anyone greets you, do not answer. Lay my staff on the boy’s face.”30 But the child’s mother said, “As surely as the Lord lives and as you live, I will not leave you.” So he got up and followed her.31 Gehazi went on ahead and laid the staff on the boy’s face, but there was no sound or response. So Gehazi went back to meet Elisha and told him, “The boy has not awakened.”32 When Elisha reached the house, there was the boy lying dead on his couch. 33 He went in, shut the door on the two of them and prayed to the Lord. 34 Then he got on the bed and lay on the boy, mouth to mouth, eyes to eyes, hands to hands. As he stretched himself out on him, the boy’s body grew warm. 35 Elisha turned away and walked back and forth in the room and then got on the bed and stretched out on him once more. The boy sneezed seven times and opened his eyes.36 Elisha summoned Gehazi and said, “Call the Shunammite.” And he did. When she came, he said, “Take your son.” 37 She came in, fell at his feet and bowed to the ground. Then she took her son and went out.

What do you do when you’ve said you’d never fail… and then you do? Through Peter’s eyes, we feel the weight of regret, the ache of shame, and the desperate longing for forgiveness. But we also witness something greater—Jesus’ unwavering love. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’ve gone too far or failed too deeply, this message is for you. Come and hear the voice that still calls, “Follow me.”Sermon Text: John 21:1–19Afterward Jesus appeared again to his disciples, by the Sea of Galilee. It happened this way: 2 Simon Peter, Thomas (also known as Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together. 3 “I’m going out to fish,” Simon Peter told them, and they said, “We’ll go with you.” So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.4 Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus.5 He called out to them, “Friends, haven’t you any fish?”“No,” they answered.6 He said, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.7 Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, “It is the Lord,” he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water. 8 The other disciples followed in the boat, towing the net full of fish, for they were not far from shore, about a hundred yards. 9 When they landed, they saw a fire of burning coals there with fish on it, and some bread.10 Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish you have just caught.” 11 So Simon Peter climbed back into the boat and dragged the net ashore. It was full of large fish, 153, but even with so many the net was not torn. 12 Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” None of the disciples dared ask him, “Who are you?” They knew it was the Lord. 13 Jesus came, took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish. 14 This was now the third time Jesus appeared to his disciples after he was raised from the dead.15 When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?”“Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.”Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”16 Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.”Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”17 The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.”Jesus said, “Feed my sheep. 18 Very truly I tell you, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” 19 Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, “Follow me!”

Description:Take a walk back in history with Mr. Tim Prost, our 5-8th grade teacher at St. Peter's Lutheran School and avid historian. He will lead you into the complicated world at Jesus' time, specifically the Roman Empire, the political complexities in Judea, and the power struggle going on during the trials of Jesus. This is a 6-part series happening each week between our Midweek Lent Services at 3:45pm and 6pm.

He came in the dark, full of questions… and left forever changed. Nicodemus once struggled to understand Jesus’ words about being “born again,” wrestling with faith through the lens of reason and tradition. But standing at the tomb, everything is different. What changed? What moved a cautious religious leader to publicly honor a crucified Messiah? In this message, we see how the Spirit works quietly but powerfully—transforming doubt into bold faith, and revealing a Savior who came not to condemn, but to save.Sermon Text: John 19:28–30, 38–42Later, knowing that everything had now been finished, and so that Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, “I am thirsty.” 29 A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus’ lips. 30 When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.31 Now it was the day of Preparation, and the next day was to be a special Sabbath. Because the Jewish leaders did not want the bodies left on the crosses during the Sabbath, they asked Pilate to have the legs broken and the bodies taken down. 32 The soldiers therefore came and broke the legs of the first man who had been crucified with Jesus, and then those of the other. 33 But when they came to Jesus and found that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. 34 Instead, one of the soldiers pierced Jesus’ side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water. 35 The man who saw it has given testimony, and his testimony is true. He knows that he tells the truth, and he testifies so that you also may believe. 36 These things happened so that the scripture would be fulfilled: “Not one of his bones will be broken,” 37 and, as another scripture says, “They will look on the one they have pierced.”38 Later, Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for the body of Jesus. Now Joseph was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly because he feared the Jewish leaders. With Pilate’s permission, he came and took the body away. 39 He was accompanied by Nicodemus, the man who earlier had visited Jesus at night. Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds.[c] 40 Taking Jesus’ body, the two of them wrapped it, with the spices, in strips of linen. This was in accordance with Jewish burial customs. 41 At the place where Jesus was crucified, there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, in which no one had ever been laid. 42 Because it was the Jewish day of Preparation and since the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there.

Description:Take a walk back in history with Mr. Tim Prost, our 5-8th grade teacher at St. Peter's Lutheran School and avid historian. He will lead you into the complicated world at Jesus' time, specifically the Roman Empire, the political complexities in Judea, and the power struggle going on during the trials of Jesus. This is a 6-part series happening each week between our Midweek Lent Services at 3:45pm and 6pm.

Description:Take a walk back in history with Mr. Tim Prost, our 5-8th grade teacher at St. Peter's Lutheran School and avid historian. He will lead you into the complicated world at Jesus' time, specifically the Roman Empire, the political complexities in Judea, and the power struggle going on during the trials of Jesus. This is a 6-part series happening each week between our Midweek Lent Services at 3:45pm and 6pm.

Description:Take a walk back in history with Mr. Tim Prost, our 5-8th grade teacher at St. Peter's Lutheran School and avid historian. He will lead you into the complicated world at Jesus' time, specifically the Roman Empire, the political complexities in Judea, and the power struggle going on during the trials of Jesus. This is a 6-part series happening each week between our Midweek Lent Services at 3:45pm and 6pm.

This Sermon's Focus:Are you seeing clearly? We often think blindness is just about the eyes, but the most dangerous kind of blindness starts in the heart. This Sunday, we’re diving into John 9 to see how a man who gained his sight ended up seeing more than the people who had it all along. You need the right glasses to see the right Savior. Find out if your "spiritual prescription" needs an update.The Sermon Text: John 9:1-7,13-17,34-39 As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. 2 His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?”3 “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him. 4 As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. 5 While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.”6 After saying this, he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes. 7 “Go,” he told him, “wash in the Pool of Siloam” (this word means “Sent”). So the man went and washed, and came home seeing.13 They brought to the Pharisees the man who had been blind. 14 Now the day on which Jesus had made the mud and opened the man’s eyes was a Sabbath. 15 Therefore the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. “He put mud on my eyes,” the man replied, “and I washed, and now I see.”16 Some of the Pharisees said, “This man is not from God, for he does not keep the Sabbath.”But others asked, “How can a sinner perform such signs?” So they were divided.17 Then they turned again to the blind man, “What have you to say about him? It was your eyes he opened.”The man replied, “He is a prophet.”34 To this they replied, “You were steeped in sin at birth; how dare you lecture us!” And they threw him out.35 Jesus heard that they had thrown him out, and when he found him, he said, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?”36 “Who is he, sir?” the man asked. “Tell me so that I may believe in him.”37 Jesus said, “You have now seen him; in fact, he is the one speaking with you.”38 Then the man said, “Lord, I believe,” and he worshiped him.39 Jesus said, “For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind.”

This Sermon's Focus:What if the greatest barrier between you and God isn’t distance—but thirst you don’t even feel anymore?In this sermon, we step into a powerful encounter at the well—and a modern-day story that feels strikingly similar. Walls go up fast. Assumptions. Hurt. Fear. The internal thoughts swirl like, “I’m not good enough.” “God couldn’t want me.” But Jesus doesn’t walk away. He leans in. He breaks through every excuse, every wound, every lie, and offers something no one else can: Living water.This episode is about the thirst we try to ignore, the barriers we build, and the Savior who refuses to leave us there. Because when Jesus meets you at the well everything changes.The Sermon Text: John 4:5–26So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. 6 Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon.7 When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?” 8 (His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.)9 The Samaritan woman said to him, “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?” (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.[a])10 Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.”11 “Sir,” the woman said, “you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? 12 Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his livestock?”13 Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, 14 but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”15 The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.”16 He told her, “Go, call your husband and come back.”17 “I have no husband,” she replied.Jesus said to her, “You are right when you say you have no husband. 18 The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true.”19 “Sir,” the woman said, “I can see that you are a prophet. 20 Our ancestors worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem.”21 “Woman,” Jesus replied, “believe me, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. 22 You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. 23 Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. 24 God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.”

He had seen it all. War. Blood. Death. Nothing shook him until this moment.In this sermon from our Lent Series: From the Eyes of Those Who Were There, stand at the foot of the cross through the eyes of a Roman centurion—a hardened soldier confronted with things he couldn’t explain.An innocent man who didn’t fight back.A king crowned with thorns.A dying man who still forgave.As darkness falls and the earth begins to shake, everything changed for him and for the world. It compelled that Centurion to cry out:“Truly this man was the Son of God.”What did he see and what did he believe that made him say that? What do you see? What do you believe about the man on the cross?Sermon Text: Mark 15:33-39At noon, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon. 34 And at three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?” (which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”).35 When some of those standing near heard this, they said, “Listen, he’s calling Elijah.”36 Someone ran, filled a sponge with wine vinegar, put it on a staff, and offered it to Jesus to drink. “Now leave him alone. Let’s see if Elijah comes to take him down,” he said.37 With a loud cry, Jesus breathed his last.38 The curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. 39 And when the centurion, who stood there in front of Jesus, saw how he died, he said, “Surely this man was the Son of God!”

What would it be like… to raise the Son of God?In this sermon from our Lent Series: From the Eyes of Those Who Were There, step into the life of Mary—the mother of Jesus. Not as a figure on a pedestal… but as a real mother. A sinner. A woman chosen by grace.She held Him as a baby, raised Him as her son, And yet she knew he was so much more—He was her and the world's Savior.From the wonder of His birth, to the confusion of His mission, to the heartbreak at the cross, Mary’s story is one of love, loss, and a faith refined through it all.A sword would pierce her soul, but through that pain, she would see the grace of God more clearly than ever.This isn’t just her story... It’s ours too!Sermon Text: John19:25–27Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. 26 When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to her, “Woman, here is your son,” 27 and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” From that time on, this disciple took her into his home.

What would you do… if you knew you were standing in the presence of the Savior—just days before He would die?To some, it looked like waste.A year’s wages… poured out at His feet.But through Mary’s eyes, it was something entirely different.In this second sermon of our Lent Series: From the Eyes of Those Who Were There, step into the room… feel the tension… hear the criticism… and witness a moment of radical love and deep faith.She had seen His power over death.She had sat at His feet and heard His promises.And now—she responds.This isn’t just a story about perfume.It’s a story about recognizing Jesus for who He truly is…and giving Him everything.Sermon Text: John 12:1-11Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. 2 Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. 3 Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.4 But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, 5 “Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages.” 6 He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it.7 “Leave her alone,” Jesus replied. “It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial. 8 You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.”9 Meanwhile a large crowd of Jews found out that Jesus was there and came, not only because of him but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. 10 So the chief priests made plans to kill Lazarus as well, 11 for on account of him many of the Jews were going over to Jesus and believing in him.

Description:Take a walk back in history with Mr. Tim Prost, our 5-8th grade teacher at St. Peter's Lutheran School and avid historian. He will lead you into the complicated world at Jesus' time, specifically the Roman Empire, the political complexities in Judea, and the power struggle going on during the trials of Jesus. This is a 6-part series happening each week between our Midweek Lent Services at 3:45pm and 6pm.

What's the one thing that resonates the loudest in people's minds about you and specifically your faith? Is it a good sound? Mixed? Are you unsure? This lesson wrestles with how we can make sure we are sounding a clear call for faith in Jesus being the most important and life-changing thing about us and about life in general. SBS = Sunday Bible StudyLiving My Life as a ChristianLesson 11: Sounding a Clear Call (Witness!)Lesson Handout: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1U6QniBSu15fGjsIrbyD-iYelcH2Ik7Xa?usp=sharingLesson Homework:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1-FumPADfsQjOHQ_7uAkWFDesnf7dSFf2?usp=sharing

This Sermon's Focus:Ever wondered what it takes to have faith like Abraham? Abraham was just an ordinary guy, but when he encountered God, everything changed. He didn’t have a prototype or a grand plan—just a simple command to leave everything behind and trust in God's promises. His journey teaches us that faith isn’t about perfection; it’s about trusting God’s presence and word, even in uncertainty. As we reflect on Abraham’s story, let’s remember that God’s promises are still true for us today. How are you navigating your journey of faith? Sermon Text: Genesis 12:1-8The Lord had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.2 “I will make you into a great nation,    and I will bless you;I will make your name great,    and you will be a blessing.3 I will bless those who bless you,    and whoever curses you I will curse;and all peoples on earth    will be blessed through you.”4 So Abram went, as the Lord had told him; and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he set out from Harran. 5 He took his wife Sarai, his nephew Lot, all the possessions they had accumulated and the people they had acquired in Harran, and they set out for the land of Canaan, and they arrived there.6 Abram traveled through the land as far as the site of the great tree of Moreh at Shechem. At that time the Canaanites were in the land. 7 The Lord appeared to Abram and said, “To your offspring I will give this land.” So he built an altar there to the Lord, who had appeared to him.8 From there he went on toward the hills east of Bethel and pitched his tent, with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east. There he built an altar to the Lord and called on the name of the Lord.#FaithJourney #Abraham #GodsPromises #ChristianLiving #Inspiration

SBS = Sunday Bible StudyLiving My Life as a ChristianLesson 8: Encouraging One AnotherLesson Handout: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1U6QniBSu15fGjsIrbyD-iYelcH2Ik7Xa?usp=sharingLesson Homework:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1-FumPADfsQjOHQ_7uAkWFDesnf7dSFf2?usp=sharing

Special Episode:This episode features a special presentation put on by the Chronicle Heritage Foundation. They are the group that helped us excavate near our church building for our construction project and identify any remains that were there. Despite radar only showing a few places with remains, the Foundation found many more than anticipated. They carefully and respectfully exhumed and reburied those who helped found and build this congregation and this community. Tune in to learn more about their methods, the respect that was shown, and the beautiful reality we cling to, that while we may not now their names, God knows them. Their names are written in the book of life.

Sermon Focus:This sermon explores the significance of Lent, Jesus' temptation in the wilderness, and how His victory over Satan offers us hope and strength in our own spiritual battles. It emphasizes reliance on God's Word, trust in His protection, and the power of Jesus' sacrifice.Sermon Text: Matthew 4:1-11Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. 2 After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. 3 The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.”4 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”5 Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. 6 “If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down. For it is written:“‘He will command his angels concerning you,    and they will lift you up in their hands,    so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’”7 Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’”8 Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. 9 “All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.”10 Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’”11 Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him.

Description:Take a walk back in history with Mr. Tim Prost, our 5-8th grade teacher at St. Peter's Lutheran School and avid historian. He will lead you into the complicated world at Jesus' time, specifically the Roman Empire, the political complexities in Judea, and the power struggle going on during the trials of Jesus. This is a 6-part series happening each week between our Midweek Lent Services at 3:45pm and 6pm.

Focus:This sermon focuses in on the side character of Jesus' ministry: Bartimeaus. Bartimeaus was a blind man who knew that Jesus could help him. He must have heard about Jesus and the powerful things he had done. He must also have heard Jesus' bold words that he came to heal, to save, and most importantly, be the Messiah all people need him to be. Bartimeaus confidently cries out, "Jesus, help me!" And his faith is rewarded with sight and then a path forward as he follows Jesus to death and life everlasting.Reading: Luke 4:14–21Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit, and news about him spread through the whole countryside. He was teaching in their synagogues, and everyone praised him. Hewent to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, as was his custom. He stood up to read, and the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to him. Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written:“The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” Then he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him. He began by saying to them, “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.”Reading: Mark 10:46–52Then they came to Jericho. As Jesus and his disciples, together with a large crowd, were leaving the city, a blind man, Bartimaeus (which means “son of Timaeus”), was sitting by the roadside begging. When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” Many rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” Jesusstopped and said, “Call him. So they called to the blind man, “Cheer up! On your feet! He’s calling you.” Throwing his cloak aside, he jumped to his feet and came to Jesus. “Whatdo you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked him. The blind man said, “Rabbi, I want to see.” “Go,” said Jesus, “your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road.

Sermon Focus: This episode explores the profound significance of the Transfiguration of Jesus, revealing his divine glory and its implications for our faith and future hope. Join us as we delve into biblical accounts, theological insights, and the hope of eternal life through Christ.Sermon Text: Matthew 17:1-9After six days Jesus took with him Peter, James and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. 2 There he was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light. 3 Just then there appeared before them Moses and Elijah, talking with Jesus.4 Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here. If you wish, I will put up three shelters—one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.”5 While he was still speaking, a bright cloud covered them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!”6 When the disciples heard this, they fell facedown to the ground, terrified. 7 But Jesus came and touched them. “Get up,” he said. “Don’t be afraid.” 8 When they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus.9 As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus instructed them, “Don’t tell anyone what you have seen, until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.”

Sermon Focus:This sermon explores the struggles of faith, envy of the wicked, and the strength we find in Christ to remain heart-strong amidst life's challenges. It emphasizes honest prayer, the importance of sanctuary, and trusting God's final justice.Sermon Text: Psalm 73A psalm of Asaph.1 Surely God is good to Israel,    to those who are pure in heart.2 But as for me, my feet had almost slipped;    I had nearly lost my foothold.3 For I envied the arrogant    when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.4 They have no struggles;    their bodies are healthy and strong.[a]5 They are free from common human burdens;    they are not plagued by human ills.6 Therefore pride is their necklace;    they clothe themselves with violence.7 From their callous hearts comes iniquity[b];    their evil imaginations have no limits.8 They scoff, and speak with malice;    with arrogance they threaten oppression.9 Their mouths lay claim to heaven,    and their tongues take possession of the earth.10 Therefore their people turn to them    and drink up waters in abundance.[c]11 They say, “How would God know?    Does the Most High know anything?”12 This is what the wicked are like—    always free of care, they go on amassing wealth.13 Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure    and have washed my hands in innocence.14 All day long I have been afflicted,    and every morning brings new punishments.15 If I had spoken out like that,    I would have betrayed your children.16 When I tried to understand all this,    it troubled me deeply17 till I entered the sanctuary of God;    then I understood their final destiny.18 Surely you place them on slippery ground;    you cast them down to ruin.19 How suddenly are they destroyed,    completely swept away by terrors!20 They are like a dream when one awakes;    when you arise, Lord,    you will despise them as fantasies.21 When my heart was grieved    and my spirit embittered,22 I was senseless and ignorant;    I was a brute beast before you.23 Yet I am always with you;    you hold me by my right hand.24 You guide me with your counsel,    and afterward you will take me into glory.25 Whom have I in heaven but you?    And earth has nothing I desire besides you.26 My flesh and my heart may fail,    but God is the strength of my heart    and my portion forever.27 Those who are far from you will perish;    you destroy all who are unfaithful to you.28 But as for me, it is good to be near God.    I have made the Sovereign Lord my refuge;    I will tell of all your deeds.

Sermon Focus: This sermon explores the biblical perspective on justice, God's nature, and how Christians are called to respond to injustice with love and humility. It features a deep dive into Scripture, including Matthew's Beatitudes and Zephaniah, and discusses practical ways to live out God's justice in today's world.Sermon Text: Zephaniah 2:3, 3:11-13Seek the Lord, all you humble of the land,    you who do what he commands.Seek righteousness, seek humility;    perhaps you will be sheltered    on the day of the Lord’s anger.On that day you, Jerusalem, will not be put to shame    for all the wrongs you have done to me,because I will remove from you    your arrogant boasters.Never again will you be haughty    on my holy hill.12 But I will leave within you    the meek and humble.The remnant of Israel    will trust in the name of the Lord.13 They will do no wrong;    they will tell no lies.A deceitful tongue    will not be found in their mouths.They will eat and lie down    and no one will make them afraid.”

Summary:This sermon explores the significance of Jesus as the light of the world, contrasting spiritual darkness with divine illumination. It emphasizes trusting in God's Word over occult practices and highlights the hope found in Christ's resurrection.Sermon Text: Isaiah 8:19-9:4When someone tells you to consult mediums and spiritists, who whisper and mutter, should not a people inquire of their God? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living? 20 Consult God’s instruction and the testimony of warning. If anyone does not speak according to this word, they have no light of dawn. 21 Distressed and hungry, they will roam through the land; when they are famished, they will become enraged and, looking upward, will curse their king and their God. 22 Then they will look toward the earth and see only distress and darkness and fearful gloom, and they will be thrust into utter darkness.9 [a]Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honor Galilee of the nations, by the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan—2 The people walking in darkness    have seen a great light;on those living in the land of deep darkness    a light has dawned.3 You have enlarged the nation    and increased their joy;they rejoice before you    as people rejoice at the harvest,as warriors rejoice    when dividing the plunder.4 For as in the day of Midian’s defeat,    you have shatteredthe yoke that burdens them,    the bar across their shoulders,    the rod of their oppressor.

Sermon Text: Isaiah 49:1-6Listen to me, you islands;    hear this, you distant nations:Before I was born the Lord called me;    from my mother’s womb he has spoken my name.2 He made my mouth like a sharpened sword,    in the shadow of his hand he hid me;he made me into a polished arrow    and concealed me in his quiver.3 He said to me, “You are my servant,    Israel, in whom I will display my splendor.”4 But I said, “I have labored in vain;    I have spent my strength for nothing at all.Yet what is due me is in the Lord’s hand,    and my reward is with my God.”5 And now the Lord says—    he who formed me in the womb to be his servantto bring Jacob back to him    and gather Israel to himself,for I am honored in the eyes of the Lord    and my God has been my strength—6 he says:“It is too small a thing for you to be my servant    to restore the tribes of Jacob    and bring back those of Israel I have kept.I will also make you a light for the Gentiles,    that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth.”

Sermon Text: Isaiah 42:1-7“Here is my servant, whom I uphold,    my chosen one in whom I delight;I will put my Spirit on him,    and he will bring justice to the nations.2 He will not shout or cry out,    or raise his voice in the streets.3 A bruised reed he will not break,    and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out.In faithfulness he will bring forth justice;4     he will not falter or be discouragedtill he establishes justice on earth.    In his teaching the islands will put their hope.”5 This is what God the Lord says—the Creator of the heavens, who stretches them out,    who spreads out the earth with all that springs from it,    who gives breath to its people,    and life to those who walk on it:6 “I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness;    I will take hold of your hand.I will keep you and will make you    to be a covenant for the people    and a light for the Gentiles,7 to open eyes that are blind,    to free captives from prison    and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness.

Sermon Text: Matthew 2:1-12After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem 2 and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”3 When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born. 5 “In Bethlehem in Judea,” they replied, “for this is what the prophet has written:6 “‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,    are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;for out of you will come a ruler    who will shepherd my people Israel.’”7 Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared. 8 He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him.”9 After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. 11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. 12 And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.Sermon Theme: WORSHIP LIKE THE MAGIWorship that overcomes obstaclesWorship that gives generouslyWorship that lives faithfully.

SBS = Sunday Bible StudyLiving My Life as a ChristianLesson 8: Encouraging One AnotherLesson Handout: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1U6QniBSu15fGjsIrbyD-iYelcH2Ik7Xa?usp=sharingLesson Homework:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1-FumPADfsQjOHQ_7uAkWFDesnf7dSFf2?usp=sharing

Pastoral Assistant Tyler Prekop led us in reviewing and remembering the works of God on our behalf, especially those accomplished by Jesus Christ for our salvation, and our ongoing life of faith. When we begin a new year or any new phase of life, it is vital for us to review and remember all the Lord has done for us in the past and to anticipate and welcome his work in and for us into the future. Let us do that today!

Enjoy our Christmas Eve Children's Christmas Service as our little ones share with us the greatest story every told. This needs to be a core memory for all of us, when God came to earth to save us from our sins and bring us back with him to the everlasting kingdom. "Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you. He is Christ the Lord."

Sermon Text: Matthew 2:12-23And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.13 When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up,” he said, “take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.”14 So he got up, took the child and his mother during the night and left for Egypt, 15 where he stayed until the death of Herod. And so was fulfilled what the Lord had said through the prophet: “Out of Egypt I called my son.”16 When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi. 17 Then what was said through the prophet Jeremiah was fulfilled:18 “A voice is heard in Ramah,    weeping and great mourning,Rachel weeping for her children    and refusing to be comforted,    because they are no more.”19 After Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt 20 and said, “Get up, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who were trying to take the child’s life are dead.”21 So he got up, took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel. 22 But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning in Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. Having been warned in a dream, he withdrew to the district of Galilee, 23 and he went and lived in a town called Nazareth. So was fulfilled what was said through the prophets, that he would be called a Nazarene.

Sermon Text: Isaiah 7:10-14Again the Lord spoke to Ahaz, 11 “Ask the Lord your God for a sign, whether in the deepest depths or in the highest heights.”12 But Ahaz said, “I will not ask; I will not put the Lord to the test.”13 Then Isaiah said, “Hear now, you house of David! Is it not enough to try the patience of humans? Will you try the patience of my God also? 14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.

PBC = People's Bible Commentary Series In this episode, Pastor Gunnar Ledermann and Pastor Titus Buelow start the short book of 3 John that is but one chapter! This letter is addressed to a certain Gaius, encouraging him to stand firm with faithful leaders who hold to the truth, and to stand apart from poor leaders who let go of truth for selfish pride. This letter is ripe with applications for current ministry settings so listen in and take these wise words from "the elder" to heart!Join us! Follow this podcast. Leave a comment. Pastor Gunnar Ledermann & Pastor Titus Buelow continue their journey of reading the People's Bible Commentaries chapter by chapter, book by book. As they read each section of commentary, they give their personal reflections and comments for you to ruminate on and use as a springboard for your own personal study and growth as a child of God. May this be a blessing to you as you Bible Study. Godspeed!You can find the People's Bible Commentaries here for purchase or download: https://online.nph.net/books/nph-series/the-peoples-bible

SBS = Sunday Bible StudyLiving My Life as a ChristianLesson 8: Encouraging One AnotherLesson Handout: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1U6QniBSu15fGjsIrbyD-iYelcH2Ik7Xa?usp=sharingLesson Homework:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1-FumPADfsQjOHQ_7uAkWFDesnf7dSFf2?usp=sharing

This Sermon's Focus:It is easy for us to let circumstances around us dictate whether we believe God's will is being accomplished, or if good will really prevail. However, we must be careful that our sights are not set too low. Yes, there is so much hurt and harm happening in our world, but that does not mean God is "winning" on a much grander scale. The same is true when we try to deduce God's plan. John the Baptist had sent his disciples to find out from Jesus if he was truly the Messiah. Things didn't look good on the ground level at first glance from a prison cell. However, big things were happening that were setting in motion even bigger things. The lame were walking. The blind were seeing. The deaf were hearing. Even the dead were rising. And good news was being proclaimed to the poor. This was it... the fulfillment of God's promise to send the Messiah to save us from our sins, this world and its worries, and our eventual death and condemnation. Yes, Jesus was the Messiah and he was changing the world forever. This Sermon's Text: Matthew 11:2-11When John, who was in prison, heard about the deeds of the Messiah, he sent his disciples 3 to ask him, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?”4 Jesus replied, “Go back and report to John what you hear and see: 5 The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor. 6 Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.”7 As John’s disciples were leaving, Jesus began to speak to the crowd about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed swayed by the wind? 8 If not, what did you go out to see? A man dressed in fine clothes? No, those who wear fine clothes are in kings’ palaces. 9 Then what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 10 This is the one about whom it is written:“‘I will send my messenger ahead of you,    who will prepare your way before you.’11 Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist; yet whoever is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.

This Service's Focus:A very warm welcome to all our families, especially those who are visiting today or joining us for the first time. We’re grateful you’re here—your presence is a gift. Today is especially joyful because our youngest children from our Early Learning Center will be helping lead us in worship. Their voices and excitement remind us of the simple, wonder-filled faith Jesus Himself commends to us.As we begin this service, you’ll notice the Advent wreath here at the front. Christians have used the Advent wreath for generations—its roots go back to early European believers who used evergreen branches and candles in the dark winter months as a way to point toward hope and the coming light of Christ. Over time, the Church adopted the wreath as a teaching tool: a circle to remind us of God’s unending love, evergreens to symbolize the life He gives, and candles lit week by week to mark our journey toward the celebration of Jesus’ birth.We still use the Advent wreath today because it helps us slow down in a season that can so easily rush past. Each candle reminds us of the promises God made and fulfilled in His Son, and it invites us to prepare our hearts—not just for Christmas traditions, but for Christ Himself. My prayer is that whether you’ve been in church your whole life, or today is your first time in a long time, you’ll see in this simple wreath the heartbeat of Christmas: that God loves you so much He stepped into our world as a child, Jesus, to save and restore us.So welcome—may this service help all of us, young and old, look forward with hope and joy to the coming of our Savior. Let’s begin in His name.Our Sermon Text: Luke 2:10-14But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven,    and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

This Sermon's Focus:All of us struggle with anxiety, sadness, and despair. Some of us struggle with them chronically and have been diagnosed with severe levels of them. What does God have to say to us? Can he help? Are we going to be okay?These are hard and very good questions to ask. In this text, Paul gives us answers that at first sound very insensitive and too hard to grasp, but as we dig in, we will hear them from a man who understands and is showing us a path forward with the Lord. The Lord is near and he will see us through these storms too. Listen in!This Sermon's Text: Philippians 4:4-7 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.#anxiety #depression #mentalhealth #struggle #faith #hope #gentleness #life

SBS = Sunday Bible StudyLiving My Life as a ChristianLesson 7: Living as a Christian Man or WomanLesson Handout: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1U6QniBSu15fGjsIrbyD-iYelcH2Ik7Xa?usp=sharingLesson Homework:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1-FumPADfsQjOHQ_7uAkWFDesnf7dSFf2?usp=sharing

This Sermon's Focus:David is overcome by God's additional promises to him and his family when he had wanted to give a temple to God! But isn't this how God deals with all of us? He has already showered many blessings on us, but instead of asking us to give him payment or gifts in return, God instead promises more. This is a great reason to give thanks this Thanksgiving and always: We have a God who loves us and blesses us even though we don't deserve it. How could we not give thanks!This Sermon's Text: 2 Samuel 7:18-22Then King David went in and sat before the Lord, and he said:“Who am I, Sovereign Lord, and what is my family, that you have brought me this far? 19 And as if this were not enough in your sight, Sovereign Lord, you have also spoken about the future of the house of your servant—and this decree, Sovereign Lord, is for a mere human![c]20 “What more can David say to you? For you know your servant, Sovereign Lord. 21 For the sake of your word and according to your will, you have done this great thing and made it known to your servant.22 “How great you are, Sovereign Lord! There is no one like you, and there is no God but you, as we have heard with our own ears.

SBS = Sunday Bible StudyLiving My Life as a ChristianLesson 5: Communication with GodLesson Handout: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1U6QniBSu15fGjsIrbyD-iYelcH2Ik7Xa?usp=sharingLesson Homework:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1-FumPADfsQjOHQ_7uAkWFDesnf7dSFf2?usp=sharing

Sermon Focus:In this sermon, Pastor Titus emphasizes the importance of anticipating the return of Jesus and being spiritually prepared for His coming. He discusses the need for readiness in our faith and service to others, encouraging listeners to fix their eyes on Jesus and engage with their community, especially during the Thanksgiving season.Sermon Text: Luke 12:35-40“Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, 36 like servants waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks they can immediately open the door for him. 37 It will be good for those servants whose master finds them watching when he comes. Truly I tell you, he will dress himself to serve, will have them recline at the table and will come and wait on them. 38 It will be good for those servants whose master finds them ready, even if he comes in the middle of the night or toward daybreak. 39 But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. 40 You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.”

We praise God for our Community!Our hope is to share the love of Jesus Christ with you during this Holiday Season and throughout the New Year.Please join us for worship at any of our holiday services:Sunday, December 7thEarly Learning Center Christmas Service - 9 amChristmas EveChildren’s Christmas Eve Service - 3 pm & 4:30 pmChristmas DayChristmas Day Service - 9 amNew Year’s EveNew Year’s Eve Service 6:30 pm Regular worship times are:Sunday mornings at 9 amThursday evenings at 6:30 pm NOTE:Currently we hold services in the school gym, until our new addition is completed. We are hopeful it will be February. Learn more about us:262-582-3010Stpetershelenville.comfacebook.com/StPetersHelenvilleyoutube.com/@st.petershelenville6056

SBS = Sunday Bible StudyLiving My Life as a ChristianLesson 5: Communication with GodLesson Handout: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1U6QniBSu15fGjsIrbyD-iYelcH2Ik7Xa?usp=sharingLesson Homework:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1-FumPADfsQjOHQ_7uAkWFDesnf7dSFf2?usp=sharing

This Sermon's Focus:Judgement is necessary to make things right. There is a lot wrong with this world and a lot of us have personally experienced that. Many of us want to see justice done on the wicked. We need evil to be called out for what it is. That is not wrong. God echoes our frustration and our hate for evil. He tells us he will make right what has been wrong. He will punish wickedness and sin. But he reserves the right to be that judge. He tells us to give that judgment to him. He will remove evil once and for all. He will punish the wicked. Thankfully though, God does also promise to bring mercy to those who revere his name and healing to those who are wounded and hurting. While many of us have been hurt, we also have hurt others. We have evil inside. So we desperately need a cleansing, a healing. We need mercy from God so that we too are not judged. And God says that those who fear him, who revere him, who fall down and plead for his mercy and trust that he will be merciful through the judgment of Jesus in our place, we will be saved. We will be forgiven. We will be healed. This is not something we deserve. So two things are true. God will judge evil. God will also save those who revere his name and bring healing. Both of these truths are powerful, real and necessary for us to be healed forever. The Sermon Text: Malachi 4:1-6“Surely the day is coming; it will burn like a furnace. All the arrogant and every evildoer will be stubble, and the day that is coming will set them on fire,” says the Lord Almighty. “Not a root or a branch will be left to them. 2 But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays. And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves. 3 Then you will trample on the wicked; they will be ashes under the soles of your feet on the day when I act,” says the Lord Almighty.4 “Remember the law of my servant Moses, the decrees and laws I gave him at Horeb for all Israel.5 “See, I will send the prophet Elijah to you before that great and dreadful day of the Lord comes. 6 He will turn the hearts of the parents to their children, and the hearts of the children to their parents; or else I will come and strike the land with total destruction.”

SBS = Sunday Bible StudyLiving My Life as a ChristianLesson 4: Christian Freedom (Part 2)Lesson Handout: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1U6QniBSu15fGjsIrbyD-iYelcH2Ik7Xa?usp=sharingLesson Homework:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1-FumPADfsQjOHQ_7uAkWFDesnf7dSFf2?usp=sharing