Advent 1

Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church
Friedheim
10653 N – 550 W
Decatur, IN 46733
www.zionfriedheim.org
A 21st Century Parish with a 1st Century Faith
Acts 2:42
Celebrating our 170th Year
Chartered February 25, 1838

LSB Series B
Advent 1
Mark 13:33-37

Today we celebrate the first Sunday of a new Church year. As we prepare for the celebration of the Savior’s first Advent we prepare for His Second Advent – His sure and certain return on the Last Great Day. You and I as 21st Century Christians have no better way to live our lives now then from the perspective of eternity. As we prepare for the observance of our Lord’s first coming we must remember that the entire Christian life is oriented towards the last advent of Christ with its glorious eternal salvation.

God requires of us alertness.

1. The Lord wants us to be spiritually alert at all times.

A. Jesus’ inevitable return in power and glory will be sudden, and unexpected. Verse 35 refers to the four watches of the night - making the point that the Lord’s coming can come at any time. "So keep watch! You do not know when the owner of the house will come back. It may be in the evening or at midnight. It may be when the rooster crows or at dawn.

B. While we wait, there can be many things that cause us to neglect our responsibilities of watching and waiting for the Lord sure and certain return.

1. This can happen by overlooking the threatening dangers of our own sinfulness. This is what we pray for in the prayer of the day that we might be rescued from the threatening perils of our sin and then be saved by the Savior’s might deliverance. Isaiah makes mention of this in the Old Testament lesson for today when he says, All of us have become like someone who is "unclean." All of the good things we do are like polluted rags to you. All of us are like leaves that have dried up. Our sins sweep us away like the wind. [Isaiah 64:6]

2. Then there is the temptation to confirm to the world’s view of the supreme importance of material things. Thinking that have the latest thing will cause us true happiness. Says the Savior in the Sermon on the Mount Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. [Matthew 6:31-34;]

3. Then of course there is the very weakness of our own flesh. We are by nature sinful and unclean. We need, especially in this Advent season to pray to the Lord, “Kyrie Elysian.”

C. The result of yielding to temptation is misbelieve, despair, and prodigal living all of which call forth the wrath of the Lord. Although it is correct to conclude that our neglect of God-given responsibilities calls for God’s wrath and punishment it is not correct to give the impression that we can somehow earn God’s favor by changing our lives and carrying out our responsibilities. In other words, the answer to the Law is not more Law. We can’t get right with God by simply saying “We’ll work harder at it!”

The solution to our issues with sin is found in the sweet and comforting message of the Gospel. The returning Lord has already come to endure in our place the punishment for our sinful disobedience and failings: in Him we have the grace of God and so you do not lack any gift; God has called you into fellowship with His Son, who will confirm us to the end. This Paul announces to us in the Epistle lesson for this day!

Transition: God requires alertness and He works it in you.

2. God Himself effects spiritual alertness in us.

A. Mark’s Gospel proclaims the works of our Savior Jesus. In this new church year we will hear 37 selections from the Gospel of Mark. Mark's Gospel has also been called a story of the death of Jesus with a long introduction. Mark's Gospel is about the period leading up to and just after the death of Jesus.


B. The retuning Lord has already come once to accept the punishment for our failings. This is the story of the cross. God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself not counting our sins against us and He has now given us this message of reconciliation. This is what causes us to say with joy “Born to raise the sons of earth, Born to give them second birth!”

C. By bringing us to faith in Jesus, God now motivates and enables us to seek and do His will. The Holy Spirit instructs believers by answering the question that arises from faith-filled hearts “what is my Savior’s will for my Life?” The Holy Spirit helps us realize the importance of spiritual alertness. And in His Supper the Lord provides the nourishment that enables us to remain alert. In providing for us this “food for the soul” we are enabled to remain alert waiting for the Lord’s coming.

Only by God’s grace in Christ can we eagerly and alertly look forward to the Lord’s return. No better preparation can be found, either for Christmas or for Judgment Day, than the spiritual alertness that God wills and works.

Bellmont 2008 Class 3A State Football Champs

Congratulations Coach Toney Bergman, as well as Clayton Stoppenhagen and Elliont Conrad, Grant Melcher, Carlin Hormann, Conner Emenhiser, Tyler Reinhart and the rest of the BHS team.

Thanksgiving Day

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

November 27, 2008
Thanksgiving Day

Lord God heavenly Father, through whose kindness we have again received the fruits of the earth in their season, grant us ever to rejoice in Your mercy that neither prosperity nor adversity may drive us from Your presence; through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Sprit, One God, now and forever.

The prayer for Thanksgiving at the end of the harvest reminds us that once again the Lord has permitted us to gather in the fruit of the earth. Each planting, growing, and harvest season has its own set of challenges – this year was not in the least a challenging one. Yet we have seen once again that the Lord orders our days and guides out path. This morning may the words of this profound and yet simple pray be the basis of our meditation for this Thanksgiving 2008. At the end of the harvest we pray:

Lord God heavenly Father. Our prayer begins as we call upon the Lord. It is to Him that we seek direction in our life. It is His face we seek. It is His mercy which calls us to pray.

Having called upon Him we are drawn to the many blessings which flow from His mighty hand. We recall His kindness. His blessings, the richness of His grace, His forgiveness, these we do not deserve – yet, He lavishes them upon us - because He is kind and gentle toward us. This is His nature. He can do nothing else.

As He acts on our behalf we have again received the fruits of the earth. True, our farmers put in many hard and long hours. Fields don’t plant themselves and someone has to work the harvest. Your work is important, tremendously important and yet we find a significant and profound truth. It is the Lord who multiplies and gives the increase. He sends the rain at the proper time. He sends the sunshine. Everything is fixed according to His timetable.

And the harvest which is received comes at the proper time in their season. The Lord has promised that there will always be a crop. Though we may often times go through cycles of adversity and challenge that Lord has promised there will always be another growing season. The land lays dormant now. Just as Advent leads to Christmas and the discipline of Lent segues into Easter so also the death of winter will only give birth to spring, The Lord promises “As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will not cease.”

Thus we pray, grant us ever to rejoice in Your mercy. Without the Lord we have nothing. Without His sustaining hand we are left living a live which is dictated to chance. Without His hand ordering our days and guiding our path we are left to circumstances directing our life. We need a balanced life.

So that neither prosperity in times of plenty, which the stock market is climbing, and the prices are souring. When yields are high and dividends are increasing.

Nor adversity – such as the time in which we live today when the future is not so certain when the experts try to explain that we are entering into uncharted waters, where the solution is uncertain.

We pray that these may never drive us from Your presence. Instead we look to the Lord for direction and life. David reminds us in Psalm 46 God is our refuge and d strength, an ever present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.

Of course, we always pray through Jesus Christ, our Lord.

Who lives and reigns - For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water, And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.[1]

With You and the Holy Sprit, Blessed by the Holy Trinity and the undivided Unity. Let us give glory to Him because He has shown His mercy to us. [2]

One God, now and forever. With the evangelist John we can say Amen! Praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and strength be to our god for ever and ever. Amen[3]

Be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father. Place yourselves under each other's authority out of respect for Christ.[4]

A Blessed Thanksgiving - in Jesus’ Name.
[1] Revelation 7:17
[2] Liturgical Text from the Introit for Trinity Sunday
[3] Revelation 7:12
[4] Ephesians 5:18-21

Thanksgiving Eve

Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church
Friedheim

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

www.zionfrieheim.org

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

Celebrating our 170th Year
Chartered February 25, 1838

November 26, 2008
Thanksgiving Eve

The prayer for Thanksgiving is more then our feeble attempt at communication with God. It is a wonderful opportunity for the Lord to teach us the lessons of Thanksgiving. As we speak to the Lord He speaks back to us. This evening as we pray to the Lord may He speak to us through this powerful prayer:

Almighty God, whose mercies are new every morning and whose goodness though undeserved still abundantly provides for all our wants of body and soul, grant us, we humbly pray, Your Holy Spirit that we may heartily acknowledge your merciful goodness toward us, give thanks for all Your benefits, and serve you in willing obedience; through Jesus Christ, Your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

1. Almighty God. In thanksgiving we address the Lord, the author of all life. What is it that we can say about the Lord? Our prayer suggests three important realities.

A. Whose mercies are new every morning. The Psalmist reminds us that “His mercy endures forever.”[1] Yet they come to us each day. Every day is a new day. Every day is an opportunity to serve the Lord in this generation. Every day is the Lord supplies us with everything we need to support our body and life. In the 4th Petition of the Lord’s Prayer the question is asked: What is meant by daily bread? Luther sums it up with these words. “Daily bread includes everything that has to do with the support and needs of the body such as food, drink, clothing, shoes, house, home, land, animals, money, goods, a devout husband or wife, devout children, devout workers, devout and faithful rules, good government, good weather, peace, health, self-control, good reputation, good friends, faithful neighbors, and the like.[2]

B. Whose goodness though undeserved. The Lord’s goodness has nothing to do with you. Notice that we must acknowledge the complete opposite. The Lord’s goodness is completely undeserved. We daily sin much and deserve nothing but punishment. Yet, in spite of our sinfulness, in spite of our pettiness, in spite of our haughtiness, in spite of our meanness and condescension the Lord chooses to bless us. And we don’t deserve it!

C. Still [He] abundantly provides for all our wants of body and soul, Think of Pr. and Mrs. Wright for a moment. They have three new-born triplets. Maggie, Gwen, and Lilly are now three and a half weeks old. They need to be fed every three hours. It takes two hours to feed them. That gives Pr. and Mrs. Wright one hour to rest to attend to the needs of their two year old Katie [and yes two year olds have needs also] before the whole process begins all over again. This will be their “new sense of normal” for quite some time. They haven’t any other options. These girls are helpless. This is what they need to survive – the constant care of their parents and others is essential for them if they are to survive. So also with you – without your Heavenly Father you could not survive. The Lord not only provides but He does it abundantly for every want of body and soul. We used this evening the explanation of the 1st Petition of the Apostles’ Creed as our confession of faith. During this Thanksgiving Holiday read through it again. It’s quite a list. It explains so well how our Lord chooses to provide for you - everything you need not just physically but spiritually as well.

2. Grant us, we humbly pray, Your Holy Spirit
A. That we may heartily acknowledge Your merciful goodness toward us. We need the Holy Spirit for the things of God are spiritually appraised. We need the Holy Spirit so that we can come to understand the things of God. We need the Holy Spirit so that we can come to a greater understanding of everything the Lord has done for us.

B. Give thanks for all Your benefits. In thanksgiving we offer to Him our worship and praise. In thanksgiving we offer our praises in worship. In thanks living we praise God as we serve our neighbor.

C. And serve You in willing obedience. Reflecting on the blessings of God allows us to want to serve God faithfully. Reflecting on the blessings of God allows us to follow His statutes with a willing heart. Reflecting on the blessings of God allows us to follow His commandments obediently.

3. Through Jesus Christ, Your Son our Lord,
A. Who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit. All three persons of the Godhead are involved in the blessings I receive. Each person of the Trinity – Father, Son and Holy Ghost are active in my life. As we have just celebrated Christ the King Sunday we worship the King of Kings and Lord of Lords who lives and reigns through all eternity.

B. One God. He is one true God, the only true God. He is without beginning and without end. Yet, He has broken into time and space to be our Redeemer, Savior, Shepherd and friend.

C. Now and forever. This is not a simple phrase. It reminds us that the truths of God will never cease. Jesus Christ is the same, yesterday, today, and forever. The praises we offer Him tonight we last into eternity. The blessings He bestows on us today will continue once time ceases. We worship an eternal God whose mercies cannot be counted.

The only thing left to say after any good prayer is simply the Word Amen. What is meant by the word “Amen”? This means that I should be certain that these petitions are pleasing to our Father in heaven and are heard by Him; for He Himself has commanded us to pray in this way and has promised to hear us. Amen, amen means “yes, yes, it shall be so.”[3] And it shall be so – in Jesus’ Name! A blessed Thanksgiving!

[1] Psalm 118
[2] Explanation to the 4th Petition of the Lord’s Prayer
[3] Luther’s Small Catechism Conclusion to the Lord’s Prayer

Time in the Word Advent 1

The new church year begins with the Second Coming. It is the one Sunday of the year which features the return of Christ as the main subject. In light of the interest in the Second Coming, the church would do well to consider this doctrine of the church and teaching of the New Testament. The Gospel calls upon us to be on the alert for the sudden, unannounced coming of Christ. The world’s cry for God to come to His people is heard in the Old Testament lesson. Paul refers to the Second Coming in the Epistle by assuring his people that they have every spiritual gift as they wait for Christ’s return. The Psalmist calls upon the Lord’s to return to help and save His people.

Collect for Advent 1 –Stir up Your power O Lord and come, that by Your protection we may be rescued from the threatening perils of our sins and saved y Your mighty deliverance; for You live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit.

Monday, November 24, 2008 Psalm 25:1-3 - The Antiphon for this coming Sunday is from Zechariah 9:9b “Behold Your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation.” This passage of Scripture will be quoted on Palm Sunday as Jesus rides triumphantly into the city of Jerusalem. Our king comes not in triumph as a military hero by rather in humility and meekness. David and his sons did not ride horses but rather mules (see 2 Samuel 18:9; 1 Kings 1:33)

Tuesday, November 25, 2008 – Isaiah 64:1-9- An appeal for the Lord to return to save His people. This lesson comes from the third section of Isaiah (chapters 56-66) It was written in the period of 540-500 BC. The Jews returned to Jerusalem from Babylonian exile. The exiles find a pathetic situation: Jerusalem is desolate and the temple has been burned to the ground. The people are despondent and impatient for God to come and do something about their condition. They feel that God is angry and has hidden His face from them. He is accused of causing them to sin. The people confess their sins and feel confident that God will not reject them for He is the potter and they are the clay.

Wednesday, November 26, 2008 – 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 – By grace Christians lack no spiritual gift as they wait for Christ’s return. This section of Scripture was chosen for this “Second Coming” Sunday because Paul refers to the return as the day of Christ. As the Christian waits for that final event, the promise is given that we are sustained by Christ’s grace and will be guiltless for Christ’s appearance. God is faithful in His gifts and promises.

Thursday, November 27, 2008–Mark 11:1-10 – Watch for Jesus’ unexpected coming. Because the time of Christ’s return is unknown we must watch for Him. In this brief lesson the word “watch” is used four times. Twice Jesus says, “You do not know when the time will come.” This fact is the reason for being on the alert. The emphasis is laid on Jesus’ return as sudden and unexpected.

There is no place here for speculation when the time of the return will be. It is an exhortation to be ready whenever He comes. Since no one knows the time, it is necessary for the faithful to look for Him every day. The mood of Advent is not speculation but joyful anticipation of the Lord’s return.

Friday, November 28, 2008 Psalm 80:1-7 - This Psalm is the appointed psalm for this coming Sunday. Verse 7 is the key verse, “Restore us and we shall be saved”.

Saturday, November 29, 2008 Matthew 21:1-16 - Our reading is the inspiration for the hymn; “O Bride of Christ, Rejoice”. How does the Savior choose to make Himself known? Not in pomp and circumstance, not with a grand fanfare and a floury of light and sound. Instead He chooses to be placed in a manger, the feeding trough of the animals. He is born in a stable where beasts are kept. Not the place you would go looking for the savior of the world.

But this is the amazing thing about our Savior, He chooses to be found in those places the world would least expect. He chooses to reveal Himself in those places the world considers unimportant. He chooses to exert his power in what an unbelieving world considers weak and of little consequence.

The cruel cross of Calvary looks ahead of us even in Advent. Does the death of a condemned man seem compelling enough to offer atonement? Could His life and sacrifice really save you? The surroundings and the circumstances of His birth predict His death. They are the means by which we find peace with God and absolution for our sin.

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

LECTIONALRY PREACHING WORKBOOK SERIES B © 1981 John Brokhoff CSS Publishing Lima, OH

NCAA accepts self-imposed sanctions

Typical 8th Grader

The second week of October is "Pastor appreciation" week. Our 8th grade class at Wyneken Lutheran School went and got signatures of every student on a yellow 2 foot x 3 foot poster. They gave it to me TODAY with these words "Pastor we appreciate you...sorry we forgot...Happy Thanksgiving!"

Loved it!

Chrit the King

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

November 23, 2008
Christ the King Sunday

Matthew 25:31-46
What you need to know concerning the end

“Almighty and everlasting God whose will it is to restore all things to your beloved Son, whom you anointed priest forever and king of all creation: Grant that all people of the earth, now divided by the power of sin, may be united under the glorious and gentle rule of your Son.”

Introduction: Most of us have an interest and curiosity of what will happen to us at the end of the world. Is there or is there not a judgment? Is there really a heaven and a hell?

Our Gospel lesson makes certain affirmations concerning the end. People need to be assured of these facts, for they make a difference in our way of life.

Outline: What can we learn from this text about the end?

1. Jesus is the judge of all people — v. 32. All the nations will be gathered before Him; and He will separate them from one another, as the shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.

Before Him will be gathered all the nations of the earth. All must be summoned before Christ's tribunal. Every person of every age of the entire world, - from the beginning to the end of time will be placed before Him. All those nations of men that have ever existed, every person who has ever walked on all the face of the earth will be summoned before Jesus the Shepherd King. It will be the day of the final account of the entire world.

2. As there is a judgment, there will be a time of accountability — v. 33 …and He will put the sheep on His right, and the goats on the left. Jesus did not say that He will put the rich on His right hand and the poor on His left. He did not say He will put the learned and the noble on His right hand, and unlearned and despised on His left; but the godly on His right hand and the wicked on His left.

A distinction will then be made between the precious and the vile. He shall separate them one from another, as the tares and wheat are separated at the harvest, as the good fish and the bad are divided at the shore, as the corn and chaff is separated on the floor. You can not determine a righteous man from an unrighteous person just by observation. Both the wicked and the godly dwell together in the same kingdoms, in the same cities, in the same churches, and in the same families. They are not obvious. You can’t tell one from another. But on that day they will be separated, and parted for ever.

3. There is a heaven and hell — vv. 34, 41, 46. Then the King will say to those on His right, 'Come, you who are blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world…Then He will also say to those on His left, 'Depart from Me, accursed ones, into the eternal fire which has been prepared for the devil and his angels;…These will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.

Jesus tells us that the eternal hope of the righteous is in Him; just as eternal punishment awaits the unrighteous who are apart from Him. Since we know none are righteous as St. Paul reminds us in Romans 3:10, As it is written: "There is no one righteous, not even one…’our only hope is in Christ - for our faith alone justifies us declaring us righteous in God's sight. As Paul continues Therefore no one will be declared righteous in his sight by observing the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of sin. But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. Romans 3:20-22.

4. Compassion is the basis for judgment — v. 40. The King will answer and say to them, 'Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of Mine, even the least of them, you did it to Me. St. Francis of Assisi is to have said: "Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary - use words." The faith is taught and it is caught. By word and deed we are to express the compassion of Jesus Christ especially to the least of these as such, we should include them in our circle of compassion and mercy.

Conclusion: The key word is the word - When (vv. 37-39). “And when did we see thee...?” Three times, the righteous asked the King the same question. They served Christ without knowing it. It was a natural, spontaneous, and automatic expression of compassion for those in need. This they did without any thought – it came naturally for them. As they did it they did it unto Christ.

The deeds of love and compassion for the needy resulted from their possession of the spirit of Christ. They had the heart and mind of Christ, and thus they had concern for the hungry, naked, and imprisoned.

Time in the Word - Christ the King Sunday

Christ the King
Proper 29
November 17-22, 2008
Preparation for the Kingship of Christ

The Lessons for this coming week deal with the Last Sunday of the Church year, Christ the King Sunday. On Christ the King Sunday, it is obvious that the kingship of Christ is the theme. The church year closes with a climax in which Jesus is crowned Lord of all. His kingship is universal and eternal. The Gospel portrays Jesus as King-Judge of all nations. The Old Testament lesson is related to the Gospel by the fact that Jesus compares his sheep to himself. Paul depicts Jesus as the victor over the world with all things under Christ’s feet, including death. The Prayer of the Day refers to the Theme of the Day: “King of all Creation” and “The glorious and gentle rule of your Son.” The Psalms pick up the idea of the sheep, but there is reference to “a King above all gods.” The Hymn of the Day uses the phrase “King of kings and Lord of lords,” and refers to the coming judgment.

Monday, November 17, 2008 - Psalm 39:4-5, 7-8, 12aThe Antiphon for this coming Sunday is from 2 Peter 3:13, “ In keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth the home of the righteous.”

Tuesday, November 18, 2008 – Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 - The Shepherd King will gather His people. As the shepherd for his people, Yahweh will seek the lost, gather, and feed his sheep with David as the prince among them. A popular metaphor for a religious-political leader in Judah was “shepherd.” False shepherds, says Ezekiel, led Judah to ruin and captivity. So, the Lord will be her shepherd who will bring his sheep out of captivity in Babylon, feed them with justice, and restore them to their former homeland. The nation will be restored under a new leader, a Messiah, a son of David.

The Lord says He will be the shepherd of His people. A shepherd is considered a king in Hebrew writings. He acts like a king who cares for his people. He is a good shepherd, the perfect one. He does only good for his people; seeks, gathers, and feeds them. He has compassion on the lost, the crippled and the weak. Nor does he neglect the healthy ones whom he feeds with justice. “My God, how wonderful thou art!”

Wednesday, November 19, 2008 – 1 Corinthians 15:20-28 - The King will conquer the world. God has put all things in subjection to Christ. On this Christ the King Sunday, we see Christ as the king over death. His resurrection was the first person to rise from death. Since He rose, the Christian dead will also rise. At the end of time, He will deliver His kingdom to God. All enemies, including death, will be defeated by King Jesus. Then the Son will subject himself to God the Father that God may be everything to everyone.

Thursday, November 20, 2008 – Matthew 25:31-46 Jesus will judge the nations. Christ the King will judge the nations. At the end of time Christ is to come as judge of the nations. As Shepherd-King, Jesus will separate the sheep and goats, the good and the bad. The basis of the separation is the nations’ ministering or lack of ministering to the hungry, thirsty, sick, and imprisoned. The passage is not primarily an appeal for social justice or economic aid.

The main point of the parable is the coming separation of the good and the bad who are destined either for heaven or hell. It should also be noted that what was done to Christ was done not to people in general, but to “the least of these my brethren.” The brethren are Jesus’ disciples.
The word “Me” is used fourteen times in this lesson. It refers to Christ. Is Christ the one who is hungry, naked, and in prison? The sick “brother” is not Christ himself; the hungry man is not Christ.

When we help the needy, we do it as to Christ. This is because Jesus identifies with the afflicted. When we love someone, we say to one who helps the beloved, “What you do for him, you do for me.” Anyone who befriends your child is automatically a friend of yours. Thus in everything we do we do it unto the Lord.

Friday, November 21, 2008 - Psalm 95:1-7a - This Psalm is the one appointed for this Sunday. Verse 7a is the key verse, “We are the people of his pasture.” Our Savior has promised to shepherd us; we are never in want. Thus we cast our worries and cares into His hands as He orders our days and directs our path. He alone is our good shepherd and king.

Saturday, November 22, 2008 - Hebrews 2:19 - Our reading is the inspiration for the hymn, “The Head that Once was Crowned with Thorns.” As the Church year comes to a close, we recall that He who Ascended will return in glory. If we are prepared to receive Him on the last great day, we will be ready to celebrate at the time of His birth. The baby in the manger, the death of the man on the cross, and the king who comes in triumph are all one in the same – Jesus our Savior.

Two simple yet heart felt Prayers “Almighty and everlasting God whose will it is to restore all things to your beloved Son, whom you anointed priest forever and king of all creation. Grant that all people of the earth, now divided by the power of sin, may be united under the glorious and gentle rule of your Son.”

Lord God, so rule and govern our hearts and minds by your Holy Spirit that, always keeping in mind the end of all things and the day of judgment, we may be stirred up to holiness of life here and may live with you forever in the world to come.

Collect for Christ the King Merciful and gracious Lord, You cause Your word to be proclaimed in every generation. Stir up our hearts and minds by Your Holy Spirit that we may receive this proclamation with humility and finally be exalted at the coming of Your Son Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

Prayer for responsible citizenship Lord keep this nation under Your care. Bless the leaders of our land that we may be a people at peace among ourselves and a blessing to the other nations of the earth. Help us provide trustworthy leaders, contribute to wise decisions for the general welfare, and thus serve You faithfully in our generation to the honor of Your holy name.

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.

Sources:

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

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

Proper 28

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

November 16, 2008
Proper 28
Matthew 25:14-30
What have you done?

Our Gospel lesson is a continuation from the parable related to the Lord’s return from last Sunday. In the parable of the 10 virgins a basic and yet profound principle is made – each must believe for himself. In the parable concerning the talents the question for us to consider is this - so now that you have come to a saving relationship with Christ what have you done with the Gospel of Jesus Christ? Did you use it or did you abuse it? Did you let your light shine or did that light go out?

According to the parable, the Lord’s return is long delayed (v. 19). The servants are asked to give an account of their investment. Two servants doubled the investment and the third preserved what he was given. The third servant was condemned for not making the most of his talent. It was taken from him and given to the other two.

Jesus has ascended and His return has been delayed. When He comes, He will ask for an accounting whether we have worked for Him while He was absent or whether we have cared only for our security. When Christ returns He will ask each of us “What have you done with the Gospel entrusted to you?” Let us pray…

“Lord God, so rule and govern our hearts and minds by your Holy Spirit that, always keeping in mind the end of all things and the day of judgment, we may be stirred up to holiness of life here and may live with you forever in the world to come.”

To one servant He gave five talents, meaning a sum of money, to a second two, and to a third one. Why is life like that? I don't know. We are all equal in the eyes of God. We are all guaranteed equal rights under the Constitution. In an election our votes are all equal. But when it comes to our abilities, we are as different as different can be. God simply did not make us all the same.

There are some people who can handle five talents; there are some who can handle only one. There are some persons who have great intellectual capabilities, and some who do not.
There are some who have the ability to project and articulate their thoughts, and there are some who cannot. There are some who have physical prowess and attractive looks, and there are some who do not. The important thing to remember is that each servant was given something. No one was left idle.

Some claim that they have no gift, that they have no talent. As a result, they fail to use and develop what little God may have given them in terms of possessions, natural gifts, and faith. People, we need to be challenged to use all the gifts to the fullest for the glory of God. This parable asks each of us to answer the question: “What have you done with the gospel of Jesus Christ?”

1. Some hide it for fear of losing it —I was afraid and went out and hid your talent in the ground. See, here is what belongs to you. v. 25. Accomplishing a little is better than accomplishing nothing at all. The reason why the master was so angry at the servant who buried his talent was because he did nothing. The only real failure in life is in giving up. God's grace is endless therefore we never need to give up. When you give up, you close the door on God changing you.

Transition: Use it or lose it.

2. Invest it — Well then, you should have put my money on deposit with the bankers, so that when I returned I would have received it back with interest. v. 27. The servant who was given five talents was called good and faithful because he went at once to put his talents to work—do the same. Whatever it is that you need to accomplish in your life, there is something you can do TODAY to get started. It's not our job to worry about what we don't have; it's our job to make the most of what we do have.

Transition: Faithfulness always leads to a promotion.

3. Multiply it — The man with the two talents also came. 'Master,' he said, 'you entrusted me with two talents; see, I have gained two more.' "His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!' vv. 22-23. You'll be given opportunities according to your ability. Not everyone gets the same opportunity, because not everyone is capable of handling the same amount of responsibility. Whether you're faithful with a little or a lot, God is equally pleased. Being responsible always leads to more responsibility.

Conclusion: God gives each a gift according to each one’s ability to use it. In the last analysis, however, we are all equal in being accountable for whatever gift we have. A person's Christian calling should not lie hidden and barren: it should be out- going, apostolic and self-sacrificial. "Don't lose your effectiveness; instead, trample on your selfishness. You think your life is for yourself?

Your life is for God, for the good of all men, though your love for our Lord. Your buried talent, dig it up again! Make it yield. Christ has entrusted you to the work of His kingdom. Why? Because He believes in you.

Big Weekend

Indiana University Opera Theater will close the first half of its 60th anniversary season with Sergei Prokofiev's The Love for Three Oranges on Nov. 14, 15, 21 and 22 at 8 p.m. in the Musical Arts Center. In this fantastical farce, set in a mythical kingdom long ago, sorceress Fata Morgana puts a curse on a prince, by which he must find and fall in love with three oranges. Absurdist comedy at its best, this lively, entertaining piece is appropriate for all ages.

When the sorceress herself is accidentally turned upside down by the palace guards, the ridiculous antics finally make the prince laugh. But Fata puts a curse on him, by which he must find and fall in love with three oranges.

Lydia will be singing in the chorus...
We plan on going down to ISU Saturday to visit Henry Saturday and take in the`Northern Iowa game...

pictures Courtesy of Indiana University and Indiana State University

Bach Collegium Sunday

Sunday 16 November, 4:00pm - Motets of Hope & Comfort Concert
A Tribute to Alfred Mann, Jack Ruhl & Herbert Nuechterlein
Trinity Episcopal Church, 611 West Berry Street, Fort Wayne, IN
• J. S. Bach. Singet dem Herrn ein Neues Lied (BWV 225) (double-choir)
• J. Brahms. Begraebnisgesang (Funeral Song)
• H. Schuetz. If God be for Us, Who can be Against Us
• A. Wyton. The Vision of Isaiah
• Josquin des Pres. Hosanna (from “Missa Pange Lingua”)
• H. L. Hassler. Lord, Let at Last Thine Angels Come (double-choir)


Be there!

Gone

Left for the winter will be back in March

Time in the Word Proper 28

Time in the Word
Proper 28
November 10-15, 2008
Preparation for the Lord’s Coming

Lord God, so rule and govern our hearts and minds by your Holy Spirit that, always keeping in mind the end of all things and the day of judgment, we may be stirred up to holiness of life here and may live with you forever in the world to come.

Lord, when the day of wrath comes, we have no hope except in your grace. Make us so to watch for the last days that the consummation of our hope may be the joy of marriage feast of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.


Collect for Proper 28 – Almighty and ever-living God, You have given exceedingly great and precious promises to those who trust in You. Dispel from us the works of darkness and grant us to live in the light of Your Son Jesus Christ, that our faith may never be found wanting; through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

Prayer for responsible citizenship: Lord keep this nation under Your care. Bless the leaders of our land that we may be a people at peace among ourselves and a blessing to the other nations of the earth. Help us provide trustworthy leaders, contribute to wise decisions for the general welfare, and thus serve You faithfully in our generation to the honor of Your holy name.

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 for this coming week again help us prepare for the coming of our Lord. In the Old Testament lesson the prophet Zephaniah reminds us of the reason the Lord must return. Sin will cause death and destruction. In the Epistle lesson Paul assures his readers the children of light will not be surprised when the day of the Lord suddenly comes. The Christians of the first century were concerned about the exact date of Jesus’ return. Paul reminded them that no exact day can be determined, for Jesus will come suddenly and unexpectedly as a thief comes in the night. In the Gospel lesson we are given the parable of the talents. This is another parable related to the Lord’s return. According to the parable, the return is long delayed (v. 19). The servants are asked to give an account of their investment. Two servants doubled the investment and the third preserved what he was given. The third servant was condemned for not making the most of his talent. It was taken from him and given to the other two. Jesus has ascended and his return has been delayed. When he comes, he will ask for an accounting whether they worked for him while he was absent or whether they cared only for their security. A hoarded gift is lost and the hoarder is condemned.

Monday, November 10, 2008 Psalm 143:5-6, 10-11 - The Antiphon for this coming Sunday is from Psalm143:1 “Hear my prayer, O Lord, give ear to my pleas for mercy! In Your faithfulness answer me, in Your righteousness!” David calls for deliverance from his enemies and for divine leading. As he makes his appeal to the Lord he is confident the Lord will act on his account. Thus we are directed to pray in the morning and evening “…into Thy hands I commend myself…”

Tuesday, November 11, 2008 – Zephaniah 1:7-16- The prophet reminds his hearers sin will cause destruction and death. Zephaniah calls upon the nation to be “silent” before God. Similarly a psalmist wrote, “Be still and know that I am God.” If one is to hear what God has to say, there must be silence. Because of this, silence is requested in a library or concert hall. But, there is greater reason for silence. In the face of something catastrophic or terrible, our only reaction is silence. When the seal is broken in heaven, there is a half hour of silence. Zephaniah has a dreadful word from God: The day of the Lord is coming as a day of doom, gloom, destruction, and death for all people. That is enough to shock us into silence.

The “end” is final. There is nothing beyond or it would not be the end. The wrath of God will not be spent until the end of everything. It reminds us of the result of nuclear warfare and the end of the earth. This passage gives us no hope, no solution. The end is promised and it will come, unless.... Or, is it too late?

Wednesday, November 12, 2008 – 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 -Since Christians they are children of the day (righteousness) and not of the night (wickedness), they are to remain sober and awake. To be ready and to be equipped to do battle against evil, they are to be equipped with faith, hope, and love. Paul comforts and assures them that God has not destined them to wrath, but to salvation so that whether they live or die, they might be with the Lord.


Thursday, November 13, 2008–Matthew 25:14-30 – What the servants have is not their own. The rich man of the parable gave his property to his servants as a trust until he returned. As servants of God, all we have has been given to us: our world, gifts, and our very own lives. Thus, we are stewards of God’s wealth. We are not free to do with his possessions as we wish. God holds us accountable for what we did or did not do with his property.

The Bible teaches us to fear God, but not to be afraid of him. The servant who did nothing with his talent was afraid of God. Though God is a just God who demands justice, holiness, and righteousness, we need not be afraid of him, for he loves us. Fear him? Yes! Fear him in terms of reverence and awe! When we are afraid, we freeze, hold back, fear to venture. The servant was afraid he would lose his one talent and he knew the master would demand a return of his money. In all ways, fear in terms of being afraid, makes us inhibited, cautious, and withholding. Love dares to venture and invest.

Friday, November 14, 2008 Psalm 90:1-12 - This Psalm is the appointed for this Sunday. Verse 17 is the key verse, ““Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us” David says, as You Lord only have been our security in the world so also make our labors to be effective and enduring – though we are so transient.

Saturday, November 15, 2008 Luke 21:25-36 - Our reading is the inspiration for the hymn; “The Day is Surely Drawing Near”. As the Church year comes to a close so we look to the time of Christ’s second coming. We need not fear these days for we are confident of Him who orders our days and directs our path.

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

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

Proper 27

November 9, 2008
Proper 27
Matthew 25:1-13
Lord, teach us wisdom

“Stir up, O Lord, the wills of your faithful people to seek more eagerly the help you offer, that, on the last day, they may enjoy the fruit of salvation.”

Introduction: There's a true story that comes form the sinking of the Titanic. A frightened woman found her place in a lifeboat that was about to be lowered into the raging North Atlantic. She suddenly thought of something she needed, so she asked permission to return to her stateroom before they cast off. She was granted three minutes or they would leave without her.

She ran across the deck that was already slanted at a dangerous angle. She raced through the gambling room with all the money that had rolled to one side, ankle deep. She came to her stateroom and quickly pushed a side her diamond rings and expensive bracelets and necklaces as she reached to the shelf above her bed and grabbed three small oranges. She quickly found her way back to the lifeboat and got in.

Now, that seems incredible - because thirty minutes earlier she would not have chosen a crate of oranges over the smallest diamond. But death had boarded the Titanic. One blast of its awful breath had transformed all values. Instantly - priceless things had become worthless. Worthless things had become priceless. And in that moment she preferred three small oranges to a crate of diamonds.

There are events in life, which have the power to transform the way we look at the world. Jesus' parable about the ten young women with their lamps offers one of these types of events, for the parable is about the Second Coming of Christ. But Jesus doesn't come right out and say this. Rather, he let's the story describe it for Him. The woman on the sinking Titanic understood, in the light of her current circumstances, that she must make preparations for living on a lifeboat.
Diamonds would not do, only the precious resources of an orange were good enough. Likewise, in this world, where Christ may return at any moment, the parable warns, we must be ready.

Outline: To be wise like the wise women —

1. Be prepared for Jesus’ coming — v. 4. The wise, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps.

Only Matthew gives the parable of the wise and foolish maidens. It concerns the return of Christ. His coming is delayed. During the delay, foolish people go to sleep and run out of oil for their lamps. At midnight, when least expected, the Bridegroom[1] comes. The unprepared have the door shut in front of them. The parable teaches us to be constantly alert and prepared for the return of Jesus Christ.

2. Refuse to share your spiritual resources — vv. 8-9. The foolish ones said to the wise, 'Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.' 'No,' they replied, 'there may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.

Christians are familiar with the three Wise Men, but how many know about the five Wise Women? According to the parable half of us are foolish when it comes to the end of days. Our foolishness is expressed in claiming to know the day and hour of Jesus’ return, in withdrawing from the world to await the return of Christ, and in ignoring the possibility of Jesus’ Second Coming in our time. In the parable we have a model for wise men and women.

“Go ... and buy for yourselves” (v. 9). On the surface this response seems heartless. The foolish five are in a crisis; there is an emergency. Shouldn’t the other five be considerate and compassionate enough to share what they have? It is an urgent matter because it is a matter of eternal life or death. There is a sternness in the parable: When the foolish girls finally get to the wedding feast, the “door was shut” (v.10), and when they appealed for entry, the bridegroom unbelievably says, “I do not know you” (v. 12).

All of this happens by virtue of the nature of being prepared spiritually. No one can get to heaven on the oil of another’s faith. Without faith in Christ, the door of salvation is closed. Faith in Christ is the key to the door. It sounds cruel but the fact is that people without faith are unknown to God, for to know is to be personally related to God.

Timing is everything. The word is based on two Greek words for "time." One[2] refers to regular, every day time—what we might call chronological time.
On the other hand, the other[3] means "special" time, as in "God's time." According to business as usual--the bridegroom is delayed. The ten virgins fall asleep.

The five foolish girls represent the "wisdom of this world--the live-by-what-you- can-see wisdom" that God has turned upside down. The five wise virgins represent the "wisdom of faith," the wisdom of trusting in Christ's complete redemption of the world.
As a sign of how the five foolish virgins live by the ways of this world, they wind up going to the marketplace to try to buy some more oil. While they were participating in the established market system--the status quo of the world--the bridegroom interrupted chronological business-as-usual time by breaking in and making His dramatic arrival.

Faith is not about believing correct thoughts. Faith is about trusting in Jesus, which, in turn, means living in the new reality He teaches—not in the status quo, business-as-usual living of this world, but rather, living in "the way" of Jesus, in anticipation of the Father's kingdom, by affirming the absolute equality and dignity Christ has given to all people who come to Him by faith, confessing and repenting of their sins and then trusting in the merits of Jesus’ sacrifice for them on the cruel and bloody cross of Calvary - and hanging in there - even when it appears that God is far away, or that the Bridegroom has been delayed.

3. Enter the feast of the kingdom — v. 10. But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut.

"But at midnight a cry happened!" It's a bit awkward in English, but the word Jesus uses here[4] literally means "it came into existence," in other words, "it happened." The word is often used to underline the significance of the event. In the middle of the night of chronological time, there is-"a cry"--and "behold! The Bridegroom showed up!" It happened!

Conclusion: The story is told of a little girl who had been taught about the second coming in Sunday School. She asked her mother about the lesson. "Mommy, do you believe Jesus will come back?" "Yes." "Could He come this week?" "Yes." "Today?" "Yes." "Could He come in the next hour?" "Yes." "In a few minutes?" "Yes, dear." "Mommy, would you comb my hair?"

This girl had the right idea: we must always be ready for the return of Christ Jesus.
Matthew tells us that the day of opportunity, the chance for repentance, the season for faith in Christ, is over for those who are not ready to meet the Lord when He comes. For the five foolish virgins the door to the wedding feast was shut, locked, and bolted. There was no way they could gain entrance. The Bridegroom even went so far as to declare, "I don't know you" (Vs 12). Once the Bridegroom has showed up, once Christ has returned, it is too late to try to get ready for His coming. You must be ready before He returns.

[1] Christ
[2] Chronos
[3] Kairos,
[4] gegonen

Wright Baptism photoes

If you go to this link you can find pictures of the baptism of Magdalen Jayne, Gwendalen Claire, and Lilliann Samantha Wright - November 3, 2008 God be praised!

Time in the Word - Proper 27

Time in the Word
Proper 27
November 3-8, 2008
The Day of our Lord

The Lessons for this coming week help us prepare for the coming of our Lord. In the Old Testament lesson the prophet Amos encourages us to prepare for the day of the Lord by exceeding justice. In the Epistle lesson Paul assures us that at the Judgment Day Jesus will bring with him all who died and the Christian people still living on earth will go with them to heaven. The Christians of Paul’s day believed that Christ’s return was at hand. This caused concern for those who already died. Would they miss the glorious event and the opportunity to go with Jesus to heaven? Paul assures them that the dead in Christ will come with him and then he will gather the living. Together the dead and living will go to heaven to be forever with Christ. In the Gospel lesson we find the parable of the wise and foolish maidens. Only Matthew gives the parable. It concerns the return of Christ. His coming is delayed. During the delay, foolish people go to sleep and run out of oil for their lamps. At midnight when least expected, the Bridegroom (Christ) comes. The unprepared have the door shut in front of them. The parable teaches us to be constantly alert and prepared for the sure and sudden return of Jesus Christ.

Monday, November 3, 2008 Psalm 84:1, 9-12 - The Antiphon for this coming Sunday is from Psalm 84:3 “Even the sparrow finds a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, at Your altars, O Lord of hosts, my King and my God.”

Tuesday, November 4, 2008 – Amos 5:18-24- Through Amos God is speaking, “I hate, I despise....” Can God hate? Is he not love? Since God is a personality, he has, like us, the capacity to hate as well as to love. In fact, if one cannot hate, one cannot love. But what or whom does God hate? It is not “whom” but “what.” Always he loves the sinner but not the sin. God hates our wickedness, our insincere worship, and our religiosity: “feasts,” “solemn assemblies,” “noises of your songs.” God hates your hypocrisy. If God hates sin, should Christians not also do the same?

Wednesday, November 5, 2008 – 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 – Paul uses “sleep” to describe the dead in Christ. They are asleep in Jesus. “Sleep” is a comforting concept of the Christian dead. When we sleep, we are at rest. Our labors are over and we rest at peace. When we sleep, we are not dead but alive. We shall awaken out of sleep. We fall asleep on earth to awaken in heaven for a fuller, better life with Christ.

We grieve over the loss of loved ones, but not as those who have no hope of heaven. In Paul’s day, people were grieving because they were worried lest the departed miss out on the return of Christ. They wanted the dead to share in his victory, to see the destruction of Satanic powers, and to rejoice in the spectacular glory of Christ. For Christians, the end time will be a glorious time and we want our loved ones to share it.

When Christ returns at the end of time, the living and the dead in Christ will be together. When Christ leaves heaven for earth, he will bring with him those who died in faith. There is going to be one great, colossal reunion of heaven and earth! Since this is the case according to Paul, we know where our departed loved ones are now. They are with Christ in heaven. To be with Christ is to have life, love, joy, and peace. What more could we want for ourselves or our dearest?

Thursday, November 6, 2008–Matthew 25:1-13 – Five girls are wise and five are foolish. Could there be that many foolish people? According to this, five go to heaven and five to hell; five have life and five have death; five have joy and five are miserable. We fall into one of these two categories. There is no in-between state. When it comes to being prepared for Christ’s return, we are either wise in being prepared or foolish in not being ready to receive him.

Christ’s return is delayed, because the first Christians expected his return in their lifetimes. Since this time, there were Christians in each century who expected the last great day to happen within a short time. Here it is the beginning of the twenty-first century and he still has not come. We humans tend to get weary in waiting to the point that we conclude he is not coming in our time. This results in carelessness expressed in “sleep” (v. 5) and not having an adequate supply of “oil” (v. 3). The delay is fraught with danger for us.

Friday, November 7, 2008 Psalm 50 - This Psalm is the appointed for this Sunday. Verse 1 is the key verse, “O Lord, make haste to help me.” This is the prayer of faith. When we reach out to the Savior with our burdens, joy, sorrow and cares He answers every petition. Our only request, “Thy will be done Lord, Thy will be done.

Saturday, November 8, 2008 Matthew 25:1-13 –- Our reading is the inspiration for the hymn; “Wake Awake, for Night is flying”. The bridegroom comes at midnight. Surprise! Who would imagine a bridegroom coming for his bride at the ungodly hour when the world is asleep? It is the least expected time. Those who stay up late are surely in bed by midnight, and even the early risers would not get up at midnight.

Jesus said his return would be like this. No one would know the day and hour — so be ready! Moreover, the signs of his coming are associated with the midnight of day which becomes the noonday of hell: wars, earthquakes, catastrophes, fear, and so on. When times are at their worst and when people are at their lowest and darkest moments, Christ will come.

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

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

Another Sign of the Approaching Apocalypse

Christmas decorations went up today at DuPont Hospital in Ft. Wayne, IN

A First

Oh my...

Pr. Kyle and his wife Kari Wright are now the proud parents of triplets born October 30, 2008

Kyle is the pastor at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Hamlet, IN [Across the road from Oregon- Davis High School for you Hoosiers in the know...] in Starke county.

At 12:14 pm Maggie was born she weighed 3lbs 14oz.
At 12:16 pm Lilly was born she weighed 3lbs. 15oz.
At 12:17 pm Gwen was born she weighed 3lbs. 15oz.

Maggie, Lilly and Gwen were welcomes by their big sister Katie who will turn two next week!

This morning all three were baptized. Kari was finally able to get up to the NICU unit to witness the baptism. After twenty-five years of ministry this is a first. I've baptized multiple sets of twins...but never triplets. My father in 40 years as a family practice physician only delivered one set of triplets.

Yesterday we had two baptisms...that would make five baptisms in one week. On the last day I served Trinity, Lansing, IL [March 8, 1987] I baptized five individuals in one day.

Another first...this coming Sunday I will baptize another infant. I have had the privilege to have baptized and confirmed his mom and I officiated at his parents' wedding. After 21 years I'm starting on my second generation here at Zion, Friedheim. God be praised!

You can visit Kyle and Keri's site here: http://kyleandkeriwright.wordpress.com/2008/10/

Trust not in princes...

Trust not in princes, they are but mortal
Earth-born they are and soon decay
Naught are their counsels at life’s last portal,
When the dark grave doth claim its prey
Since, then, no man can help afford
Trust ye in Christ, our God and Lord.
Hallelujah!

Praise the Almighty, My Soul Adore Him –
Johann Herrnschmidt – 1714

Proper 26

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

November 2, 2008
Proper 26
Matthew 23:1-12
Lord, use me

“Lord, when the day of wrath comes, we have no hope except in your grace. Make us so to watch for the last days that the consummation of our hope may be the joy of marriage feast of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Introduction: Our Gospel lesson is for both clergy and laity. Jesus spoke about the scribes and the Pharisees. The scribes were the professional, ordained clergy who were scholars, teachers, and rabbis. The Pharisees were not theologically educated; they were lay people who were leaders dedicated and zealous in keeping the Law.

The people assembled for worship can be classified today as Pharisees. They are the thirty to fifty percent of the congregation present for worship Sunday after Sunday. They are the cream of the crop, the most active, and leaders of the congregation. This message is for both pastor and people today.

Jesus urges His disciples to follow what the Pharisees taught but not what they practiced. Jesus exhorts both people and disciples not to follow the Pharisees who do not practice what they preach, but to attain greatness through humility and service.

In contrast to self and title-seeking, Jesus urged His followers to renounce pride and titles in favor of service to God.

Outline: Lord, use me.

1. Our strength: teaching and preaching the Word — vv. 2-3. The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat .So you must obey them and do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach.

The Words…Preach ... practice (v. 3). These two belong together, but often they are not. The preaching may be all right, but the practice has not the same quality.
Jesus urges His listeners to practice what the scribes and Pharisees preach, but not to follow their practice. Can we do this? Can we separate preaching from practice? Most of us repudiate the preaching that is not practiced. Yet, what preacher can perfectly practice his own preaching? Can you?

2. Our weaknesses: do not do as the Pharisees — vv. 3-7. So you must obey them and do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. They tie up heavy loads and put them on men's shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them. Everything they do is done for men to see: They make their phylacteries[1] wide and the tassels on their garments long; they love the place of honor at banquets and the most important seats in the synagogues; they love to be greeted in the marketplaces and to have men call them 'Rabbi.

Religious leaders are prone to be proud of themselves, their positions, and their piety.
They want to be “seen.” “Look at me” — they say - see how good I am! They want their gifts publicized and want due credit. They like to wear large crosses and put religious slogans on bumpers. They want to be seated up front and they love their titles. All these add up to pride. They want to be “seen.”

But this morality, my friends will not and can not save you. A Law that demands anything less than perfection - demands less than Jesus’ perfect obedience. A Law that sinners can keep doesn’t require Jesus’ dead on the Cross…soft peddling the Law just won’t do – not if we want sinners to trust Jesus alone to be saved. Excuses, generalities, house rules, principle for living and all of the moralist of today ultimately rob sinners of their only comfort and hope.

God gave His Law to hunt us down, find us out, corner us and kill us. The Law is powerful, but it is a deadly power because of our sin. In the end, the Law exposes us as the enemies of God we really are…In the end, the Law leaves the sinner utterly sinful, utterly condemned, utterly dead. The Law leaves the sinner without hope in himself or the Law. There is no hope – except one. His name is Jesus Christ. [2] It is only through His merits on the cross of Calvary that you and I find salvation and life.

3. Our goal: humbler service — vv. 11-12. The greatest among you will be your servant. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.

The world does not agree with Jesus on the question, “Who is the greatest?” In the world the greatest is a star like Julia Roberts or Brad Pitt. The greatest is a champion like Tiger Woods. The greatest is a billionaire like Bill Gates. The greatest is a monarch of a nation like the Queen of England.

This kind of greatness is for a few people. For Jesus’ greatness, every person can be the greatest. It takes only humble service. The greatest can be poor, uneducated, unknown — just a humble person living for others as the Savior shapes their lives.

Conclusion: We must take the attitude of John the Baptist who said of our Savior – He must increase I must decrease. In humility we pray – Lord I am an instrument use me as You see fit. I am Your servant. You are to potter I am the clay. Shape and use me as You deem the best, for Your kingdom – Your glory and my good.


[1] Matthew 23:5 That is, boxes containing Scripture verses, worn on forehead and arm
[2] Issues, Etc. Journal Vol. 6, No. 1 “The Law’s Accusations: God’s Perfect, Specific and Unavoidable Demands” by Todd Wilken pp. 9-10