Sunday, August 31, 2008

ACD Festival

For 18 of Henry's twenty-two years we have made the trip to Auburn, IN to attend the Auburn, Cord, Duesenberg Festival. It's one of the largest classic car auctions in the country. You see people from all walks of life looking at cars, watching the bidding, coveting, reliving moments of our lives. It's a guy thing - we can remember events in our lives by the cars we were driving at the time etc. Cars kids were driving when I was in high school [Nova SS] are now classics! Hank hasn't been able to come to the festival the last few years but this year he came home for the Labor Day weekend to take in the festival with his friend Andrew. I was invited to tag along.

The Cadilac XLR says "drive me home" oh, my but not the kind of ride for clergy.

The bid for this 1957 Austin Cambrian Four Door Sedan went for $4,600 Hank thinks we should have bid on it. Oh well, after he's done with school, has a steady job and a small amount of savings he can bid all he wants. Until then he'll make due with a 2001 Dodge Neon with 150,000 miles...

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Lydia's back at IU


Lydia's off to IU for her second year

To craft her art to perfection
She doesn't just carry a tune...she hurls it 150 yards!


And yes, IU has a fountain...

... in the middle of campus


One of the fish is missing...after the celebration when IU won the NCAA basketball championship in 1981...while her mom was in grad school...humm



This is the MAC




Home of the Jacobs School of Music

One of the largest music halls in the country



The Main Gate on Campus

And the old Administration tower

Monday, August 25, 2008

Time in the Word - Proper 17 - August 25-30, 2008



In the Lessons for this week the price of being a Christian is to take hardship. persecution, and even sacrifice. Since Jesus was acknowledged as the Christ, the thing that went with it was the cross to which Peter objected as being beneath the Son of God. In like manner, Jesus teaches that His followers must take the same path of the cross. The principle of life for a Christian is the losing of one’s self in service to God. Jeremiah protests against the afflictions he is experiencing as a faithful prophet and God assures him deliverance from his enemies. The suggested Psalm is the palmist’s cry for God to vindicate him from his enemies because he trusts in God. The hymn carries on the theme Hail Thou once despised Jesus. This theme deals with the reality of Christians living in a hostile world which inflicts innocent suffering upon God’s people. Voluntary suffering and sacrifice constitute the Christian way of life.

Collect for Proper 17Almighty God, Your Son willingly endured the agony and shame of the cross for our redemption. Grant us courage to take up our cross daily and follow Him wherever He leads; through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

Monday, August 25, 2008Psalm 37:1-8 Antiphon, Psalm 37:4 Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart! In the Introit for next Sunday, the psalmist gives us instruction in godly wisdom. Here he will contrast the wicked from the righteous.


Tuesday, August 26, 2008Jeremiah 15:15-21 – God’s faithful are persecuted. God assures Jeremiah that he will be delivered from those who persecute him for preaching God’s Word. Jeremiah had persecutors. What wrong had he done to deserve their hostility? His crime was that he spoke the Word of God. The truth of the Word hurt the people who wanted to hear words of peace and security. Jeremiah was a victim of innocent suffering, because men prefer evil to good. They hate those who expose their evil ways. It was the case, too, with Jesus. When they cried for his death, Pilate asked, “What evil has he done?” It is a fact of the Christian’s life: Persecution is a normal part of living like a Christian. If so, why are Christians so infrequently persecuted for doing good?

When people suffer, especially if they suffer innocently, they ask God, “Why?” Jeremiah asked why he must continually experience reproach, hatred, and rejection. Jeremiah gets angry with God and accuses God of being “deceitful.” It seemed to him that God called him to be a prophet, and now he felt deserted and abandoned into the hands of evil men. When misfortune strikes and we feel we have done nothing to deserve it, we, too, get angry with God. Like Job, we have a case against God.

Wednesday, August 27, 2008Romans 12:9-21 – A life of sacrifice as worship of God. Romans12 begins the ethical section of Romans. For Paul ethics are the by-product of theology. “Therefore” refers to the preceding theology of justification. The “mercies of God” refer to God’s grace in Christ. In response to what God has done, we are to offer our whole selves as a sacrifice. This is our worship — practical living. When we totally dedicate ourselves to God, we will know the will of God and humbly use our gifts in service. The specific moral admonitions are specific applications of this offering of service as a sacrifice.

Thursday, August 28, 2008Matthew 16:21-28 – The necessity of cross-bearing. Jesus announces His coming suffering in Jerusalem and calls His disciples to take up their crosses and follow Him to death. Peter tries to dissuade Jesus from going to Jerusalem, but Jesus calls his disciples to take up their crosses and follow him to death. We are still at Caesarea Philippi. Peter had just made his famous confession that Jesus is the Messiah. Thereupon Jesus announces that he must go to Jerusalem to suffer, die, and rise again. For Peter this was a denial of Jesus’ being the Christ, Lord, and King. It did not fit at all into the concept of the Messiah who as God’s Son would be victor over any and all enemies, even death. But, Jesus saw in Peter’s rebuke a temptation of Satan not to fulfill his mission. Then he called upon his disciples to similarly deny themselves, take up their crosses, and follow him to death and resurrection. For the principle of life is to lose it in order to find it. When Christ returns, every disciple will be rewarded for what he has done with his life.

Friday, August 29, 2008 - Psalm 26- The Psalm appointed for next Sunday has as its key verse, 3, “For Thy steadfast love is before my eyes, and I walk in faithfulness to Thee.” The psalm is a prayer for god’s discerning mercies to spare his faithful and godly servant from the death that overtakes the wicked and the ungodly. His prayer for vindication suggests that the king is threatened by the deceitful (v.4) and bloodthirsty (v.9) men to whom he refers. David directs his cry for help to the Lord’s throne room in the temple.


Saturday, August 30, 2008Revelation 4:11 – This passage is the inspiration for the hymn. “Hail Thou Once Despised Jesus” This verse brings us back to Genesis, chapter 1 where we see that God created all things in both heaven and earth. He is worthy of our praise as He is the creator and sustainer of all things.
Sources:
LUTHERAN SEVICE BOOK © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis, MO

LECTIONALRY PREACHING WORKBOOK SERIES A © 1980 John Brokhoff CSS Publishing Lima, OH

Friday, August 22, 2008

Proper 16, August 24, 2008

Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church
Friedheim

10653 N – 550 W
Decatur, IN 46733
260-547-4248

www.zionfriedheim.org

A 21st Century Parish with a 1st Century Faith
Acts 2:42

Celebrating our 170th Year
Chartered February 25, 1838

August 24, 2008
Proper 16
Matthew 16:13-20
A Great Confession

We’ve turned the corner. The kids are back in school. We focus now on their individual instruction. So also with the twelve. At Caesarea Philippi Peter confesses that Jesus is the Christ. Jesus takes His disciples out of the country to Caesarea Philippi, a city built in honor of Caesar Augustus. Jesus’ public ministry has come to a close and now He turns to the training of the twelve as He goes to Jerusalem to carry out His mission as Messiah. Let us pray to the Lord…

God of all creation, You reach out to call people of all nations to Your kingdom. As You gather disciples from near and far, count us also among those who boldly confess Your Son Jesus Christ as Lord.”

When Jesus asked His disciples who they thought He was, Peter was the spokesman — “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” According to the account there was no hesitation in answering. Peter did not say, “Let us think about it for a while.” His reply was spontaneous and immediate.

This indicates that God gave Peter the insight and put the words in his mouth. It was so great and true that Peter could never have thought up the answer in so many words if he had a year to consider the answer. Jesus acknowledged the correctness of the answer and told Peter that God HAD revealed it to him. Man on his own and in his weakness cannot know or understand the true identity of Jesus. The Lord Himself must reveal the truth of His Son. Today we consider Peter’s great confession of faith.

Outline: What God said through Peter.

1. Jesus is His Son — The Father and the Son they share the same nature. Peter expressed the opinion of the disciples, “You are the Christ.” This was an insight and understanding into the true nature of Jesus that Peter did not think up by himself. He had help from above. This key truth was revealed to him by God.
Man by himself cannot fathom the truth or the significance of Jesus as Son of God. Even today the person who confesses Jesus as the Christ does it by the power of the Holy Spirit. Only God knows who Jesus is, and He reveals this to us.

We can answer the question only through the intervention of the Holy Spirit in our lives. The Spirit’s means are Word and Sacrament brought to the troubled heart of the sinner. The saving faith freely given by God leads each one of us to confess: “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God.”

God revealed who Jesus as to Peter. Such understanding was not transmitted from one person to the other as secondhand information. One who is infinitely greater than flesh and blood revealed the identity of the Messiah to Peter.

Today, the faithful of God continue to confess, “I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him…” through Word and Sacrament, Christ, the Son of the Living God, is ever revealed to mankind. “But the Holy Ghost has called me by the Gospel…”

2. Jesus is the Messiah — He is our Redeemer, the Savior: This speaks of Jesus’ nature and work. He who has keys has power and authority. It is the power and authority to lock or to unlock. The keys are to the kingdom of heaven, the kingdom of God, or salvation. To enter the kingdom is to be forgiven of sins. It is an awesome responsibility and privilege. To whom are the keys given?

In this case, they were given to Peter as the representative of the disciples, the church. Christ through the church gives the keys to His disciples. What are these keys? Are they not the Word and sacraments through which the grace of God is received?

Yet, the pastor does not exercise these keys in a vacuum or by himself. They are given to be distributed publicly on behalf of God’s people. It is given on behalf of the members of our Friedheim family. The source of our confession and our actions is the faith God our Father gives us. Because Jesus is the Christ, my sins are forgiven. Because Jesus is the Christ, I am empowered to live a new life. Because Jesus is the Christ, I have the sure certainty of eternal life.

Conclusion: To enter the Kingdom is to be forgiven of sins. It is an awesome responsibility and privilege. To whom does Christ give the keys? He gives them to the church. And what are these keys? They are the keys of forgiveness, life, salvation. Are they not found in the Word and Sacraments through which the grace of God is received?
This Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God. To those who believe on His name He gives power to become the children of God and has promised them His Holy Spirit. He offers to us freely forgiveness, life, and salvation. Thanks be to God for this remarkable gift. Thanks be to God for His amazing mercy and grace!

Monday, August 18, 2008

Time in the Word - Proper 16 - August 18-23, 2008

In the Lessons for this week God discloses Himself to His people. The Father gave Peter the insight to confess Jesus as the Christ. Through the prophet Isaiah the Lord promises to deliver His people from bondage. When Pal thinks of God in the Epistle lesson he burst forth in a doxology of praise and amazement at God whose nature and ways are beyond our comprehension. As the great hymn of the church “Built on the Rock the Church doest stand” reminds us the Rock is Christ upon which the Father builds His kingdom. This theme seems to be a great and glorious God revealing Himself that we might come to know and believe in Him.

Collect for Proper 16Almighty God, Whom is to know everlasting life. Grant us to know Your Son, Jesus to be the way, the truth, and the life that we may boldly confess Him to be the Christ and steadfastly walk in the way that leads to life eternal; through the same Jesu Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever. Amen

Monday, August 18, 2008Psalm 2:6-7; Psalm 117 Antiphon, Psalm 115:18 But we will bless the Lord from this time forth and forevermore. Praise the Lord! In the Introit for next Sunday, the psalmist identifies Jerusalem as the Lord’s holy hill, the site of the temple. The Lord’s Anointed proclaims the Lord’s coronation degree as Easter people we see this fulfilled in Jesus resurrection (see Acts 13:33) Christ is superior to all. His superiority over angels is seen in Hebrews 1:5 and His appointment as our high priest is seen in Hebrews 5:5.

Tuesday, August 19, 2008Isaiah 51:1-6 – God discloses Himself in His name. He promises to deliver His people from exile. In this deliverance from exile will ultimately come the deliverance from sin and our bondage to Satan. Ultimately salvation through Christ will come to all nations (see also Isaiah 46:13) as the Gospel message is preached to the entire world.

Wednesday, August 20, 2008Romans 11: 33-12:8 – Knowledge of God is deeper than our understanding. Paul appeals to us to offer ourselves as living sacrifices to God and to use our gifts in service. Romans chapter 12 begins the ethical section of Romans. For Paul ethics are the by-product of theology. “Therefore” refers to the preceding theology of justification. The “mercies of God” refer to God’s grace in Christ. In response to what God has done, we are to offer our whole selves as a sacrifice. This is our worship — practical living. When we totally dedicate ourselves to God, we will know the will of God and humbly use our gifts in service. The specific moral admonitions are specific applications of this offering of service as a sacrifice.

Thursday, August 21, 2008Matthew 16:13-20 – God reveals that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Peter tries to dissuade Jesus from going to Jerusalem, but Jesus calls his disciples to take up their crosses and follow him to death. We are still at Caesarea Philippi. Peter had just made his famous confession that Jesus is the Messiah. Thereupon Jesus announces that he must go to Jerusalem to suffer, die, and rise again.

For Peter this was a denial of Jesus’ being the Christ, Lord, and King. It did not fit at all into the concept of the Messiah who as God’s Son would be victor over any and all enemies, even death.

But, Jesus saw in Peter’s rebuke a temptation of Satan not to fulfill his mission. Then he called upon his disciples to similarly deny themselves, take up their crosses, and follow him to death and resurrection. For the principle of life is to lose it in order to find it. When Christ returns, every disciple will be rewarded for what he has done with his life.

Friday, August 22, 2008 Psalm 138- The Psalm appointed for next Sunday is a royal song of praise for God’s saving help against threatening foes. In many respects it is like Psalm 18 except this time it is more concise and direct. Two Hebrew four-line stanzas (Vv. 1-3, 608) develop the main theme; at the center of the psalm is a two-line stanza (Vv.4-5) which expands the praise of the Lord to a universal company of earth’s royalty.

Saturday, August 23, 2008Romans 3:28 – This passage is the inspiration for the hymn “Dear Christians one and all Rejoice.” This verse is one of the key verses of the New Testament. When Luther translated this verse he added the word “alone” indicating that faith is not man’s contribution or decision but rather God’s gift. (See Ephesians 2:8-9)
Sources:
LUTHERAN SEVICE BOOK © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis, MO

LECTIONALRY PREACHING WORKBOOK SERIES A © 1980 John Brokhoff CSS Publishing Lima, OH

Sunday, August 17, 2008

Proper 15 - August 17, 2008



Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church
Friedheim

10653 N – 550 W
Decatur, IN 46733
260-547-4248

www.zionfriedheim.org

A 21st Century Parish with a 1st Century Faith
Acts 2:42

Celebrating our 170th Year
Chartered February 25, 1838

August 17, 2008
Proper 15
Matthew 15:21-28
Help me Jesus!

Almighty and ever-living God, You have given great and precious promises to those who believe. Grant us the perfect faith which overcomes all doubts.

Introduction: The cry of Peter from our gospel lesson last week is the cry of faith – Jesus! Help me! Now we hear the same cry from a foreigner a Syroiphoenician woman. Jesus, Son of David, have mercy! Will the Savior respond? Why should He? He isn’t under any obligation to help her…or is He?

Jesus yields to the persistent pleas of a Canaanite mother. Jesus retired to a territory outside Israel and consequently He is approached by a pagan Gentile mother, a Canaanite, a Syroiphoenician who asks Him to heal her daughter who is suffering from demon possession.

Is Jesus’ ministry limited only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel? At first glance it appears so, because Jesus tells her His ministry was first and foremost to the Jews. With that He brushes her off.

Still, she persisted in her appeals - until He granted her request. Jesus is impressed with her faith. As a result, she was commended and her daughter was instantly healed. In this exchange we learn of the universality of Christ’s ministry and we see that faith has no racial boundaries.

Who doesn’t need help? For many, it is a daily need. At times great needs appear as in the case of the Canaanite mother. Some may feel unworthy of asking Jesus for help. What do they have to offer of Him?

For some, they have not been to church, are not church members, do not pray or read the Bible, possibly they may be living less then stellar lives. And yet they stand in the need of the Savior’s help. They are in need of the touch of His healing hand. They have nothing to offer. Too often they have been forgotten. And yet, their plight is real.

They stand in the need of prayer. This woman had nothing going for her that Jesus should help her. Yet He reaches out to her in her time of need. Why? How so?

Are you any different o man? Why should the Savior think of you? Who are you - as to demand an audience of Him? Why should He answer your petitions? Are you so high and mighty that He should take notice of you? Does your righteousness exceed the Scribes and the Pharisees? Does not your sin disqualify you? Who are you that you should ask of Him?

The answer my friends, boils down to one word – faith - placing our confidence in Christ and His sure and certain words.

Outline: You, like this woman, can receive Jesus’ help

1. If you have a real need And behold, a woman of Canaan came from that region and cried out to Him, saying, “Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David! My daughter is severely demon-possessed v. 22. The pagan woman asked Jesus to have mercy on her. It is significant that she identified her daughter to the degree that the help given to the child would be given to her. Here is a depth of love that is possible between parent and child. A true parent wishes she could take the pain and trouble of the child. The woman kept crying out to Jesus, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on me!” (Vs. 22) She pleads for mercy but her concern is for her daughter who suffers from demon possession.

You can receive Jesus’ help –

2. If you are humbleBut He answered and said, “It is not good to take the children’s bread and throw it to the little dogs.” And she said, “Yes, Lord, yet even the little dogs eat the crumbs which fall from their masters’ table Vv. 26, 27. Mere crumbs are all she asks for, for she knows that behind this teacher with whom she is talking is God’s plenty. The power of God can never be exhausted for it has its foundation not in our good intentions or our own human resources but in Jesus Christ, whom the woman recognized as her Lord.

Her response is quick. It exhibits a spirit – a faith that no doubt gave Jesus great joy. He had no time for those who just hoped for the best – those people; like many today, who find it difficult to place complete and total confidence in God’s good grace, because deep down they think that they have something to offer Him in exchange for His mercy.

The woman only responds with two words: “Help me!” She had no arguments – she had no excuses. She knew she had no claim on Jesus. She is only a woman, a foreigner.
You can receive Jesus’ help –

3. If you have faithThen Jesus answered and said to her, “O woman, great is your faith! Let it be to you as you desire.” And her daughter was healed from that very hour. v. 28. Until Jesus said, “O woman, great is your faith,” no mention is made of faith. Jesus did not ask if she believed He was able to help her. In this struggle to overcome Jesus’ reluctance to help, He saw her faith. It was a faith that He could heal her daughter, because she addressed him as Messiah, “Son of David.”

He saw faith in her knowledge that He would help her. This was demonstrated by her persistence. Faith is the key to getting a hearing and a blessing from Christ. It is not a matter of race, religion; the determining factor is faith in Christ and Him alone.

Still, her faith persisted, and that persistence paid off! Christ’s power becomes ours, as we believe that He can overcome any barrier, any obstacle, with His divine love. The Syroiphoenician woman had such faith; she believed Christ’s power was great enough to surmount the obstacles of race, distance, and disease.

You can receive Jesus’ help –

4. If you are persistentBut He answered her not a word. And His disciples came and urged Him, saying, “Send her away, for she cries out after us. v. 23. When the woman begged for mercy, Jesus was perfectly silent. He ignored her as though she said nothing. She was invisible. There are times when God is silent when we cry to Him for help or for answers. In this silence God is saying something to us. It is a testing of faith. The test is whether we have patience and persistence in our prayers. Are you angry at Him because you petitioned Him once and received no reply? We have no right to expect “instant answers to our prayers.” Prayer often is a wrestling, a waiting upon God. Sometimes God appears to be silent. Sometimes that silence is the call for us to call upon Him again.

The persistent faith of the woman on behalf of her child exhibits a great confidence in the attitude of Christ’s resources as the Son of God. Mere crumbs are all she asks for – this would satisfy her. Her persistence enabled her to be specific in her request.

Conclusion: Great was this woman’s faith. Not because of her potential - what she could be – or of any particular power she had. She is found to be great because of her unyielding faith. She had the confidence to ask of Him who alone could heal.

The words of Christ to the woman were not words of displeasure or arrogance is it might appear initially. They brought to the surface a tenacious, persistent faith in the power of God. May we too offer to Christ the same utter loyalty, the same unquestioning obedience, and the same persistent faith.

Faith is the only thing needed when we go to God for help. Faith and no other possession, is the only necessity for receiving God’s help. The woman would not take no for an answer.

She knew her place alright – but she also understood what the Savior was committed to do. When it comes to the Savior helping those who place their confidence in Him - nothing will deter Him.

He knows of this woman’s faith – He’s already made up His mind. Her child will recover. When we cry to Jesus for help in a desperate situation, He comes to us without fail. May we be given such a simple yet great faith – a faith that will not let go but clings to Jesus Christ alone.

+ Soli Deo Gloria +

Saturday, August 16, 2008

Hank's back at ISU

Henry returned to Terre Haute, IN for his senior year at Indiana State University
Here's Hank with Sycamore Sam during freshman orientation in the fall of 2005

The campus is across the street from the Vigo County Court House on US Hwy 41



For Hank ISU has been More From day one...


Here's Sam greeting students as they arrive at the main gate at ISU




Every campus has to have at least one fountain...

One view of the ISU campus...

And another...

Any of you who do any kind of baking might not know that Clabber Girl baking soda is made in Terre Haute, IN

St Mary of the Woods College is also located in Terre Haute, IN In 1840, six Sisters of Providence left their convent in Ruille-sur-Loir, France, on a journey to the wilderness of Indiana. Mother Theodore Guerin, a woman whose spirit and philosophy are the foundations the College relies on to this day, led the sisters on their journey.

Mother Theodore Guerin was cannonized in the fall of 2006 becoming one of only a few Americans to reach sainthood. Ironically on the same day Indiana State broke a 25 game loosing streak- currently the longest in NCAA history. Sadly it's the only football game ISU has won in the last three years...

Here is a view of the commons in the ISU Union Bldg. where most kids hang out...












Wednesday, August 13, 2008

A picture...countless thoughts


They say that a picture is worth a thousand words. Well here are two taken at our recent parish picnic. Here we have three kids a nineteen, twenty and twenty-one year old. Daughter Lydia is on the left, son Henry is on the right. Both will be back at school in a few days. The couple in the background above Lydia Mitch was the first person I confirmed when I came to Friedheim twenty-one years ago. I officiated at his wedding with his wife Angie - standing next to him. I’ve baptized their two children. He now serves on our Wyneken School Board. He serves our community on the Decatur Fire Department.

The young man in the middle is Jacob. I’ve had the privilege to baptize him and confirm him in the faith. Jacob returned to the States for two weeks while being stationed in Iraq with his two older brothers Josh and Zach. That’s right -three brother - serving in the same unit at the same time in Iraq. Jacob is serving as a medic. His life is on hold right now. College will have to wait until he returns. He’s sacrificing his life so that we can pursue our dreams and live our lives in freedom. This puts a face on what our bravest and brightest are doing.

The young man standing next to me is Andrew. He was the first infant I baptized when I came to Zion in March 1987. He’s one of Henry’s best friends. Andrew has spent many hours in the parsonage hanging out with classmates and friends as many hours as Hank has spent at his house. Soon they will all be out on their own. God bless them! Where has the time gone?


Monday, August 11, 2008

Time in the Word - Proper 15 - August 11-16, 2008


No one is excluded for God’s favor and help. This is illustrated in Jesus’ healing of a Canaanite woman’s daughter, who at that time had no claim for held from a Jew. The Old Testament lesson gives us the picture of foreigners from all over the world gathering in God’s house as a house of prayer for all peoples. Paul in the Epistle lesson says the disobedience of the Jews, resulted in the gospel’s going to the Gentiles. The theme is the universalism, but it deals with God’s acceptance of all who repent and believe regardless of national or social identification. God is not for Jews only as was once considered in the time of Jonah and Ruth. Faith which clings and cries out to God “have mercy Lord” is what unifies.

Collect for Proper 15Almighty and everlasting Father, You give Your children many blessings even though we are undeserving. In every trial and temptation grant us steadfast confidence in Your loving-kindness and mercy; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen


Monday, August 11, 2008Psalm 28: 1-2, 6-8; Antiphon, Vs.8 The Lord is the strength of His people He is the saving refuge of His anointed. In the Introit for next Sunday, His mighty and saving acts are shown. He saves them as circumstances require – He remains a refuge to His people. God’s reputation and character is at stake. He must save. He must redeem. He must be a refuge to His people. We remain safe and secure as He has come to redeem His own. All who come to Him in faith find security in His saving acts.

Tuesday, August 12, 2008 – Isaiah 56:1, 6-8 – God’s house is for all peoples. God promises to gather all people to Himself. Everyone (v. 6). Though God desires everyone to enter the kingdom, not all will enter. God makes a universal appeal. His will is for all people to be saved. This is not universalism, the teaching that in the end all will be saved and none shall go to hell. For the Jews of Isaiah’s time that was a revolutionary thought: that Gentiles and foreigners would be brought to God and would share in the worship of God. In this pericope, a non-Jew will be with God and in God’s house if he keeps the Sabbath and is faithful to the covenant.

Wednesday, August 13, 2008Romans 11:1-2a, 13-15, 28-32 – God’s kingdom includes Gentiles. The disobedience of the Jews resulted in the reconciliation of the Gentiles. The Jews’ rejection of Christ results in the world’s reconciliation. Paul now turns to address Gentiles, for he is the apostle to the Gentiles. He discusses the salvation of Jews and Gentiles. This aroused the Jews’ jealousy who will in the end accept Christ. Their disobedience caused salvation to come to the Gentiles, a blessing in disguise. However, God has not disowned his people, for his all and gifts are irrevocable. Both Jews and Gentiles will receive mercy for their disobedience.

Thursday, August 14, 2008Matthew 15:21-28 – God’s Son heals one of another race. Jesus hears the persistent appeal of a Canaanite woman. Jesus yields to the persistent pleas of a Canaanite mother. Jesus retired to a territory outside Israel and consequently he is approached by a pagan Gentile mother, a Canaanite, to heal her mentally-ill daughter. Is Jesus’ ministry limited to the Jews? At first it seems so, because Jesus told her that his ministry was for the Jews. She persisted in her appeals until he was impressed with her faith in him. As a result, she was complimented and her daughter was instantly healed. In this story we learn of the universality of Christ’s ministry and we see that faith has no racial boundaries.

Friday, August 15, 2008 - Psalm 67- The Psalm appointed for next Sunday is a communal prayer seeking the Lord’s blessing. Possibly it was used as a benediction at the close of worship. God’s blessing His people as well as His saving acts on their behalf will catch the attention of the nations and move them to praise His holy name.

Saturday, August 16, 20082 Corinthians 3:18 – This passage is the inspiration for the hymn “Renew Me, O Eternal light.” In contrast to Moses, being transformed into His likeness with ever-increasing glory Christ Himself is the glory of God in the fullness of its radiance, his is the eternal and unfading glory which He has with the Father before the world began. We who believe are made partakers in this glory by being gradually transformed into the likeness of Christ.

Sources:
LUTHERAN SEVICE BOOK © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis, MO

LECTIONALRY PREACHING WORKBOOK SERIES A © 1980 John Brokhoff CSS Publishing Lima, OH

Schnorr von Carolsfeld, woodcuts Zachariah names John, Jesus feeds the 5,000 © WELS Permission to use these copyrighted items is limited to personal and congregational use.

Sunday, August 10, 2008

Family Vacation

We're going to the windy city for a few days. Taking off after service and will get back some time Tuesday. Henry takes off for the Haute Saturday...it's been a fast summer!

Friday, August 8, 2008

Henry's last day at Camp

Today is Henry's last day at Camp Lutherhaven. He'll come home tomorrow. After church we'll take off for a few days in Chicago before he packs up to go back to Terre Haute.

Hank will be a senior this year. The time has gone by quickly. He's done a great job and picked a school that is perfect for him. From our experience ISU has been "More. From day one." My two sisters who live out of state are coming into town next weekend. Should be an interesting week!

Cat pic Friday. Salem aka "the fat man" loves to sleep on his back...and dream of food! We don't have too many pics of Tacy. Salem however loves to be in the spotlight.










Proper 14 - August 10, 2008


Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church
Friedheim

10653 N – 550 W
Decatur, IN 46733
260-547-4248

http://www.zionfriedheim.org/

A 21st Century Parish with a 1st Century Faith
Acts 2:42

Celebrating our 170th Year
Chartered February 25, 1838
Matthew 14:22-33
August 10, 2008
Proper 14


Jesus’ walking on the sea frightens the disciples. Jesus sends the disciples by boat to the other side of the lake while He went up a mountain to pray. When the boat was far from shore, a terrible storm developed, and the disciples were frightened. Three hours before dawn they had a greater reason to be scared. They saw a figure walking on the water thinking it to be a ghost.

Jesus assured them immediately. He said to them: "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid. Peter asked Jesus to let him come to Him by walking on the water.

The Savior’s words - "Take courage!" and "Don't be afraid" bracket the central reason for Jesus’ calming words. He says, "It is I." Although the Greek words for "It is I" ("I am") can have no more force than that, any Christian after the Resurrection and Ascension would also detect echoes of these words. These words are Jesus’ decisive self-disclosure of being none other then Almighty God Himself! (See Exodus 3:14; Isaiah 51:12; cf. John 8:58).

Walking on the waves in the early hours of the morning Jesus calls out to His fearful disciples saying “I am none other then God Himself” Peter, wanting convincing proof says in effect “Jesus, if You really are whom You claim to be, if You really are God Almighty – then command me to step out of this boat and I too will walk on this water!”

Jesus’ response to Peter is a decisive command. “Come! “ “Bring it on!” “I will prove Myself to you!”

Peter steps out in faith. He is walking on the water just like the Savior who has called Him. It is the Lord! He truly is the Lord! He can be trusted at His Word!

But when Peter saw the waves, he becomes overwhelmed. Fear gets the best of him. Peter lost faith and began to sink. In desperation he cries to Jesus for help. Jesus took him to the boat, the wind stopped, and the disciples - in awe - confess that Jesus is the Son of God. They heard His command, they witnessed the drama. They saw and experienced the effects of complete silence.


When we face the storms of life we need the same Christ to come to our rescue. This miracle teaches us to take Jesus at His word. When He tells us clearly, “I am none other then God Almighty and My ways are good for you” we can do nothing but trust and obey. When fear and doubt challenge our faith; we, like the anxious father, in fear for his child need to plead, “Lord I believe…help my unbelief!”

Let up pray to the Lord…

Almighty and everlasting God, You are always more ready to hear than we are to pray, and to give more than we either desire or deserve. Pour upon us the abundance of Your mercy, forgiving us those things of which our conscience is afraid, and giving us those good things for which we are not worthy to ask, except through the merit of your Son, Jesus Christ.”

In our deepest need —

1. We cry for help — But when he saw the wind, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried out, saying, Lord, save me. Vs. 30. Peter expressed the ultimate need of every human — “Lord! Save me.” Each person has many needs, but basic to all is the need for deliverance from the threatening forces that are our own undoing. On the sea of life, every person faces drowning. He needs to be rescued. At Peter’s cry, Jesus “reached out His hand and caught him.” Jesus said His followers were to catch men before they perish in the perils of the world.


A. Peter felt threatened by surrounding conditions — “when he saw the wind.” What is it that frightens people these days? Growing up in the 1960’s many feared a surprise missile attack from the Communist Russians.

All people could hope for would be that our defense systems would destroy theirs entering our air space. Now many fear attacks from terrorist cell groups who may go undetected in our country for months, possibly years.

The National Red Cross recently put together an educational curriculum for children which, [and I quote,] “provides positive ways for children and their families to respond to past events and plan for future uncertain times.” Advertised as, “a supplement to Masters of Disaster™ the children's natural hazard safety curriculum.” “The format and components are similar, including ready-to-go lesson plans, activities and demonstrations that can be incorporated within core subject areas. Lessons are aligned with national health, social studies, and language arts standards.” [1]

There you have it - a ready made curriculum addressing the subject of fear. Rational or not, real or imagined, there is an entire cottage industry geared at addressing people’s fears.

Some fear an uncertain economic future, while others fear the rise in diseases such as cancer.

B. By definition fear is a sinking condition — “beginning to sink.” It is a feeling of agitation and anxiety caused by the presence of danger. It is a state or condition marked by this feeling: living in fear. It is a feeling of disquiet or apprehension: a fear of looking foolish. It is a reason for dread or apprehension: Being alone is my greatest fear.[2]

C. As with Peter fear reared its ugly head because of a lack of faith — “afraid.” It seems that a fear of the future basically boils down to a lack of trust in God. Even after we have seen marvelous and miraculous events in our life, we still lack faith in God’s providence. Take for example yet another instance in which Jesus was with His disciples on the sea - the case when Jesus and His disciples were on the Sea of Galilee and an unexpected storm arrives. Jesus of course is asleep and the disciples panic. Jesus assumes that fear is directly related to lack of faith. “He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?[3]


We stare into an unknown future and the uncertainties drive us to a point that we either do not think that God is in control of our lives or that we know that God is in control, we are just scared out of our mind as to what God will actually have in store for us.

To combat fear and to build and bolster faith we need to recall the sure and certain words of our Lord and Savior. Says St. Paul, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”[4] So says the Lord through the prophet Jeremiah, “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. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”[5]

Transition: A lack of faith causes both fear and doubt to flourish. Where do we do for help? We turn to Christ for only He can save.


2. We are helped — But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, “Lord, save me!” And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” vv. 31-32.

A. He hears Peter’s cry — “Lord, save me.” This is the cry of faith. We pray this prayer Sunday after Sunday in the words of the Kyrie. “Lord, have mercy, Christ, have mercy, Lord, have mercy. In the words of the Agnes Dei we petition our Lord, “Oh Christ Thou Lamb of God who takest away the sin of the world have mercy upon us and grant us Thy peace.” The Centurion with a critically ill servant said to the Savior, Lord, I am not worthy for You to come under my roof, but just say the word, and my servant will be healed.

B. He offers His hand — “Reached out his hand.” In this instance He rescued Peter from drowning. Says the Psalmist, "You called in trouble and I rescued you; I answered you in the hiding place of thunder; I proved you at the waters of Meribah.[6] Stephen in his defense reminds us in Acts, chapter ten, “Joseph's brothers became jealous of him and sold Joseph as a slave in Egypt. However, God was with him and rescued him from all his troubles. He granted him favor and wisdom before Pharaoh, king of Egypt, who appointed him ruler of Egypt and of his whole household.[7]
Says again the prophet Jeremiah, I will certainly rescue you. You will not die in war. You will escape with your life because you trusted me, declares the LORD.[8]

C. He rescues and saved Peter — “caught him.” Christ’s enemies declared from the foot of the cross, “He trusts in God. Let God rescue him, if He wants to do so now. After all, he said, 'I am the Son of God,'"[9] The cruel cross of Calvary always looms before us. Does the death of a condemned man seem compelling enough to offer atonement? Could His life and sacrifice really save you? This is the means by which we find peace with God and absolution for our sin. It is the only means necessary for you to receive pardon and peace.
................................................................................
Conclusion: If you have raised children you have encountered this scene at least once that of the waiting father arms extended; encouraging, coxing his child to jump into the water. There the child sits, perched on the edge of the pool, frozen in time, petrified. Will he leap, or will fear get the best of him? So it goes with your Savior. He waits for you. He has the means necessary to come to your rescue. Into Your hands o merciful Savior we commend ourselves, trusting in You to protect and rescue us from all peril.



[1] http://www.redcross.org/disaster/masters/facingfear/
[2] http://www.thefreedictionary.com/fear
[3] Mark 4:39-40
[4] Romans 8:28
[5] Jeremiah 29:11-13
[6] Psalm 87:1
[7] Acts 10:9-10
[8] Jeremiah 39:18
[9] Matthew 27:43

Thursday, August 7, 2008

Mission-Philosophy-Vision Statement of our Friedheim Family


The Mission of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church - Friedheim is to be “A 21st Century Parish with a 1st Century Faith

The Philosophy of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church - Friedheim is recorded in Acts 2:42 “And they continued steadfast in the Apostles’ doctrine, and in fellowship, and in the breaking of bread, and in prayer

The Vision of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church - Friedheim is to be one with respect to four specific objectives of mission and ministry.

Ø “The Apostles Doctrine” Being one in unity and faith. Basing our lives on God’s Holy Word as He speaks clearly to us through that Word.

Ø “Fellowship” Being one in the Lord Jesus Christ. Experiencing true joy in Christ. Living at peace with each other and enjoying one another.

Ø “The Breaking of Bread” Sacramental living. Experiencing daily the forgiveness of sins, life and salvation as Christ comes to us in and through the Sacraments.

Ø “Prayer” Upholding one another. Taking our needs burdens joys and sorrows to the throne room of grace. Being thankful as the Savior answers each petition.



Adopted: February 6, 2003

Tuesday, August 5, 2008

IN MEMORIAM




Donna Schieferstein
Born: June 9, 1929
Baptized: June 25, 1929
Confirmed May 4, 1953
With Christ in Peace: August 1, 2008
Committal: August 5, 2008

Lord, I have loved the habitation of Your house, And the place where Your glory dwells – Psalm 26:8


Dorothy Selking
Born: April 19, 1925
Baptized:April 26, 1925
Confirmed: April 1, 1939
With Chrit in Peace: August 2, 2008
Committal: August 6, 20008

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want - Psalm 23:1


Death is so limited…
It has not crippled love,
It has not shattered hope,
It has not corroded faith,
It has not eaten away peace
Nor destroyed confidence

It has not killed friendship,
It has not shut out memories,
It has not silenced courage,
It has not invaded the soul,
Nor reduced eternal life.

It has not quenched the Spirit,
It cannot, has not,
Nor will not lesson the power of the resurrection!

Time in the Word - Proper 14 - August 4-9, 2008




Two simple yet heart felt Prayers –
Almighty God, grant us a steadfast faith in Jesus Christ, a cheerful hope in Your mercy, and a sincere love for You and one another.”

Pour out upon us, O Lord, the Spirit to think and do what is right, that we, who cannot even exist without you, may have the strength to live according to your will.”

For blessing on the Word – Lord God, bless Your Word wherever it is proclaimed. Make it a word of power and peace to convert those not yet Your own and to confirm those who have come to saving faith. May Your Word pass from the ear to the heart, from the heart to the lip, and from the lip to the life that, as You have promised, Your Word may achieve the purpose for which You send it; through Jesus Christ, my Lord.

A prayer before we study the Word – Almighty God, our heavenly Father, without Your help our labor is useless, and without Your light our search is in vain. Invigorate the study of Your holy Word that, by due diligence and right discernment, we may establish ourselves and others in Your holy faith.
The lessons give us people who are in trouble. In the Gospel lesson the disciples are frozen with fear on the Sea of Galilee. In the Old Testament lesson Elijah is in the throes of complete despair to the point he has given up. In the Epistle Paul is so desperate in his concern for the salvation of his fellow-Jews that to win them he is willing to be cut off from Christ. The hymn asks God our heavenly Father to guide us safely through this wilderness of life.

Collect for Proper 14Almighty and everlasting God, You are always more ready to hear than we are to pray, and to give more than we either desire or deserve. Pour upon us the abundance of Your mercy, forgiving us those things of which our conscience is afraid, and giving us those good things for which we are not worthy to ask, except through the merit of Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, Who lives and reigns with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen


Monday, August 4, 2008Psalm 34:1, 4-8; Antiphon, Psalm 145:16 In the Introit for next Sunday, David sings the praises of the Lord, who provides for all his needs, and saves him from his enemies, especially sin, death, and the devil. We apply it to ourselves when we use the antiphon, “You open Your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing,” as part of our table prayer, as we are taught in Luther’s Small Catechism.

Tuesday, August 5, 20081 Kings 19:9-18 - Here we encounter the prophet Elijah, hiding in a cave in fear for his life. He is discouraged because his people, the children of Israel have forsaken the true God for idol worship. The Lord shows Elijah His might in the form of a mighty wind, an earthquake, and fire, but then comfort Elijah by speaking in a “gentle whisper.” (Or, we might remember the King James Version’s “still, small voice.”) The Lord directs Elijah to anoint kings and prophets, and assures him that a faithful remnant endures.

Wednesday, August 6, 2008Romans 9:1-5 – This day’s epistle fits nicely with the Old Testament reading. As did Elijah, St. Paul here laments over his people, the Jews. The very people to whom the Messiah was sent, from whom He came, have rejected Him. Paul’s anguish is very much in evidence; he is willing to forego his own salvation, if it would save his people. And still, in chapter eleven, he, too, will speak of a remnant of the faithful.

Thursday, August 7, 2008Matthew 14:22-33 – We can see ourselves in Peter. Jesus asks him to do the impossible, and Peter, full of bravado, believes he can. However, when he takes his eyes off of Jesus, he falters, and is at risk of perishing. Likewise, when we avert our eyes from Jesus, we lose faith and confidence, and put ourselves in spiritual jeopardy. When we cry out, “Lord, save me!” Jesus rescues us, lest we drown and are lost forever.

Friday, August 8, 2008 -Psalm 28- The Psalm appointed for next Sunday is very similar in theme to the Introit: David beseeches the Lord to deliver him from his enemies, and then praises Him for His justice and deliverance. Once again, we encounter a verse which is very familiar to us; this one from the liturgy. Verse nine appears in the creedal hymn of praise sung in the order of Matins, the Te Deum Laudamus: “O Lord, save Thy people and bless Thine heritage. Govern them and lift them up forever.”

Saturday, August 9, 2008Psalm 90 – This passage is the inspiration for the hymn “Our God our Help in Ages Past.” Isaac Watts based his hymn on Psalm 90, but it fits very well with the Introit, Psalm, and all three Scripture readings for to-morrow. He is, indeed, our Help, Hope, Shelter, and Home.

Sources:
LUTHERAN SEVICE BOOK © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis, MO

LECTIONALRY PREACHING WORKBOOK SERIES A © 1980 John Brokhoff CSS Publishing Lima, OH

Schnorr von Carolsfeld, woodcuts Zachariah names John, Jesus feeds the 5,000 © WELS Permission to use these copyrighted items is limited to personal and congregational use.

Saturday, August 2, 2008

Proper 13 - August 3, 2008






Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church
Friedheim

10653 N – 550 W
Decatur, IN 46733
260-547-4248

http://www.zionfriedheim.org/

A 21st Century Parish with a 1st Century Faith
Acts 2:42

Celebrating our 170th Year
Chartered February 25, 1838

August 3, 2008
Proper 13
Matthew 14:13-21


Jesus feeds 5,000 with five loaves and two fish. More than any other episode, the feeding of a crowd of thousands of people is related six times in Holy Scripture. Apparently, this fact points to the importance with which the apostolic church held it. The account shows us Jesus’ power over nature, and His use of the disciples in feeding the multitude.

Several items are noteworthy: Jesus’ compassion for the needy, His power to make so much of so little, His partnership of the disciples, and the oversupply of food. The Lord provides. We have been blessed! Let us pray to the Lord…

Gracious Father, Your blessed Son came down from heaven to be the true bread which gives life to the world. Give us this bread, that He may live in us and we in Him.”

Introduction
: The miracle of feeding 5,000 with five loaves is a vehicle that carries several important truths. If we see only a miracle and nothing more, we miss the point. Apparently this episode was very important to the apostolic church because all four Gospels give an account of this miracle. We need to learn the lessons of this miracle.

Consider the permanent values in this miracle —

1. Christ is able to feed us — vv. 19-20. And he directed the people to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. The people needed physical food. They were plain hungry. Jesus tells the disciples to give the people something to eat. In a world where one-third of the people suffer malnutrition, Jesus has a message to those able to share their food. Jesus is concerned about the physical welfare of people as well as with their souls.

There is no dodging this issue by spiritualizing this account to say it refers to the Lord’s Supper, or to see Jesus as the second Moses, or to see the feeding of the crowd as a picture of an eschatological banquet. This miracle is to be taken as a concrete, factual situation - of real physical hunger which Christians have a responsibility to alleviate.

There is truly a spiritual dement ion to what you do. In our weekly prayers – from Easter to Thanksgiving – from planting to growth to harvest – we include petitions for farmers. We ask the Lord to help us to see that by this noble vocation you are feeding the world. That’s what you do. It is a holy work. Is it challenging – of course it is. Is it tiresome, frustrating, and rewarding? Yes, to all of these. But it is a work that is both important and necessary. That is why conclude our petition with the request “and cause all people who give thanks over their food to treat those who produce it with honor and respect.”

Transition: Not only is Jesus able to feed us> He is filled with compassion. He is willing to feed us.

2. Christ is willing to feed us. He has compassion. — Vs. 14 - When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick. Here is the heartbeat of the miracle. It is a greater factor than the power to bring food for 5,000 out of five loaves of bread. Because of His love for the hurting and the hungry, Jesus is moved to help and heal.

The people are not in a position to help themselves; it is at the end of the day, they are far from civilization, they are out of supplies. To get food at that time and in that place demanded a miracle. The disciples had no other options. Divine intervention was necessary. This account teaches that Jesus is not only able but willing to help. Contrast this with many contemporary instances when people in trouble are ignored when they cry for help.

It is so easy for so many to simply ignore those who truly are in need. For us to see the need would require us to respond. That’s why it’s so easy to look past those who are in need. It’s much easier to simply respond, “I’ve got mine…I’ve paid my dues…let them fend for themselves.”

What happens when you find yourself truly in need? What happens when your fervent prayers appear to go unanswered? What happens when all seems lost? This miracle proves that Jesus is both willing and able to help in your time of need.

The disciples were out of options. There was nothing they could do. Jesus came to their rescue for only He can save. Jesus came to prove that He is serious about dealing with your circumstance. This miracle was written for your – to assure you that He is the only one capable to save and serve.

Transition: Jesus is both willing and able to set the table for He is in charge. He is in control.


3. Christ is in control — v. 18. Bring them here to me, he said. The power of the miracle is Christ. The 5,000 are fed with five loaves. He asks that the loaves and fish be brought to Him. He takes the food, gives thanks and breaks the bread until all are fed. The tremendous truth in this act is that man is so little and Christ can do such great things. This reminds us also that a common meal in the home or out in a field can be a sacramental act of love when the bread is blessed and shared.

It only took a little. Jesus took five loaves and a few fish and fed a crowd. The food kept coming until the people were satisfied. Such power was demonstrated of Him who spoke this world into existence.

Such power was demonstrated when He entered time and space to be your redeemer. Such power was demonstrated when He hung on a cross bearing your sin. Such power was demonstrated when on the third day He broke from the tomb and destroyed the powers of death and hell forever.

Transition: Jesus has such powers given Him by our heavenly Father. And the blessings are enormous.

4. Christ provides abundantly — v. 20. They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. The people were satisfied with the quality and the quantity of food. They were filled with food. In fact, they could not eat it all — twelve baskets were filled with leftovers. Here we see the generosity and abundance of God’s provision of our needs. God gives us more than we ask for, more than we need. God does exceeding abundantly above all we ask or think.

Take an inventory of your life. Can you count all of the blessings? They are too numerous to count. He provides more then we could ask or think so that we can know without any hesitation that His provisions are abundant. More then we could ever imagine. More then we could ever hope for. More then we could dream of having. This miracle teaches a profound truth – you can not out give God!

Conclusion: Luther put it best when he explained to us the First Article of the Apostles’ Creed. What does it mean believe in God– the Father Almighty? What does this mean? Luther explains: I believe that God has made me and all creatures; that He has given me my body and soul, eyes, ears, and all my members, my reason and all my senses, and still takes care of them. He also gives me clothing and shoes, food and drink, house and home, wife and children, land, animals, and all I have. He richly and daily provides me with all that I need to support this body and life. He defends me against all danger and guards and protects me from all evil. All this - He does only out of fatherly, divine goodness and mercy, without any merit or worthiness in me. For all this it is my duty to thank and praise, serve and obey Him. This is most certainly true.
Soil Deo Gloria
In our prayers this week...
Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church
Friedheim
10653 N – 550 W
Decatur, IN 46733
http://www.zionfriedheim.org/
A 21st Century Parish with a 1st Century Faith
Acts 2:42
Prayers of the People of God at Friedheim
August 3, 2008
Proper 13

Almighty God since You have granted us the favor to call on You with one accord and have promised that where two or three are gathered together in Your name You are in the midst of them, fulfill now the prayers of Your servants, granting us in this world knowledge of Your truth and in the world to come life everlasting.

We remember our members who are celebrating birthdays this week and pray Your blessings upon them Izaak Bobay, Gabrielle Brandt, Emma Buuck, Nick Linnemeier, Hannah Timm, Elfurt Blomenberg, Jacob Conrad, Misty Gehres, Beth Rettig, Carrington Bultemeier, John Nidlinger, Bonnie Buuck, Eldora Fuelling, Roger Manley, and Chad Baumann.

You alone are the Great Physician. Grant health and strength to all who are in need of the touch of Your healing hand. We especially remember this day –Karen Johnson, Kelly Baumann, and Troy Sinar.

We would ask that You guide and direct all who serve and protect; Police, Fire, and Rescue workers; first responders, border patrol agents, and all who serve their neighbor.

We remember those who are serving in the armed forces of our country—Josh, Zach, and Jacob Stoppenhagen, Steven Banks, who are serving in Iraq, Jason Putteet who is in South Korea, Randy McAllister who is serving in Germany. Direct also we pray; Mike Brandt, Brian Moeller, Danny Cross, Cam Koldyke, Cody Kiess, Josh Colwell, Brian Journay, Lydia Reynolds, James Johnson, and Chad Hall. Lord, protect and guide them in their missions.

Visit, we implore You, O Lord, the homes in which Your people dwell. Keep far from them all harm and danger. Grant us to dwell together in peace under the protection of Your holy angels and may Your blessing be with us forever.

O God of grace and glory we remember before you our sisters in Christ Donna Schieferstein and Dorothy Selking. We thank You for giving them to us to know and to love as companions during our pilgrimage on this earth. In Your boundless compassion consol all who grieve their passing. Give them your aid that they may see in death the gate which leads to eternal life. And may we continue our course on earth in confidence until by Your calling we are united with those who have gone before us.

Keep the members of St. John’s Bingen and our brothers and sisters at Zion Lutheran in Decatur in Your safe keeping as they search for ministers to serve their congregation. We pray the Spirit’s aid at St. John as they assemble to call a Pastor next Sunday and Zion who has extended a call to Barry Keurulainen as Sr. Pastor. As we rejoice in the 170 years of ministry within our Friedheim family we pray that we may continue to be a haven of peace and a harbor of hope in this world.

Heavenly Father continue to guide all parishes of our Synod who are in the pursuit of pastoral care especially do we commit to Your care Jeffrey Keuning who patiently waits for a call to come. We rejoice with Pastor – elect John Wurst who will be installed as Pastor of Christ the King Lutheran Church Duluth, MN as well as Pr. Tomas Olson who celebrates 25 years in the ministry this day.

Almighty God, You blessed the earth to make it fruitful, bringing forth in abundance whatever is needed for the support of our lives. Prosper; we implore You, the work of farmers, especially in this growing season. Grant them seasonable weather that they may gather in the fruits of the earth and thus proclaim Your goodness. May we see by this noble vocation that by Your aid we are helping to feed the world and cause all who give thanks over their food to treat those who produce it with honor and respect.

We come to Your table at Your gracious invitation to eat your Holy body and blood in the blessed Sacrament. Bless our participation that we may depart from Your presence in peace and joy knowing we are reconciled to the Father and also to each other. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.



Friday, August 1, 2008

Hank will be home tonight!

Son Henry will be home for part of the weekend. He's been working all summer at Camp Lutherhaven. His last day is August 8. We'll vacation as a family for a few days in Chicago then the kids take off for college.
Cat pic Friday...if Salem had a day planner it would read: "wake up...kill something and eat it...take a nap..." What a life!