499 years ago, Martin Luther started a discussion that has continued to this day. His work to return the Church to the Word of God made a lasting impact, and his translation of the Bible made God’s Word available for all. His Word is a mighty fortress filled with surprises and grace. Let’s listen.
The story of the tax collector and the Pharisee is familiar. While the Pharisee is self-congratulatory, his pride and self righteousness ultimately bring him down. But is there more to the story? Let’s listen.
When God wrestled with Jacob, Jacob was persistent and would not let him go until God blessed him. We know that God who is righteous and just, will hear and act speedily on his people’s behalf. The answer might not be what we expect! Can persistent prayer and faith help us be open and ready…
Many of us will experience a time in our lives that we question the events of the day and why God would allow that to happen to us. Have faith! God does have a purpose. God will not give us more than we can handle. Trust in God and know His purpose makes everything alright…
The mustard seed is so very small, but when the plant matures it can be a large tree. Something small, such as a seed, can yield great results. Your faith may start out small, like a mustard seed. But your faith grows with time.
God has called us by name. God claims you and declares you are his beloved during your baptism. He treasures everyone, His love is constant and unwavering.
We look in on Amos during the time he was called to the northern capital city. God called him to meet with the believers of the time to examine their lives and their business. He went to remind them they, like us, must strive to follow God in all things and every day, not just…
Spending too much time with nonmembers? Going into the jail? What’s up with that? This was Jesus’ practice, to welcome the bad element of his time, so they could hear the word. Like Jesus, may we reach out to others, and by doing so, strengthen our own faith! Help us to seek out the lost,…
What’s involved in being a disciple? Renouncing all that we have? It’s tough! How can we avoid failure? Jesus gives us hope that we can follow Him in spite of our human frailties. Let’s listen. We welcome our guest pastor this week, Pastor Gary Byers, Pastor Emeritus at Zion Lutheran Church, Belleville IL
What defines our comfort zone? What about those outside our comfort zone? Jesus’ ministry focused on those outside the accepted comfort zone. May we follow His example, show compassion like He did, and reach out to others without thought of what’s in it for us.