Brothers and sisters, greetings in the name of Jesus our coming Lord and Savior.
I have a few news items for you. We plan to have a voters’ meeting after the service this coming Sunday, the 11th. We will elect officers and approve the budget for 2023, and submit nominations for Synod President.
For one more week the LWML is collecting scent-free Laundry Detergent, Body Wash, Shampoo, and Toilet Tissue for ladies staying at the Boaz House. There is a basket on the floor of the narthex where you can drop off any donations. December 18 has been set as a deadline.
Let Pastor know if you are interested in caroling for some of our shut-ins. We’ve currently picked Tuesday the 20thas the best fit for the most people. Let pastor know if you are interested, and he will contact you if the schedule changes.
The Christmas worship schedule includes a Christmas Eve service on Saturday the 24th at 6:30. There will also be a Christmas Day service Sunday the 25th at our regular start time of 10:15. Sunday School and Adult Bible Study will be canceled for the day.
What are you expecting from Jesus when He comes back? The readings for today emphasize His power to restore the world to be the Paradise it was before sin came into the world. The things connected with suffering and death, will be gone, replaced by that which is joyful and alive.
Scripture readings are Psalm 146, Isaiah 35:1-10, James 5:7-11, and Matthew 11:2-15.
Hymns chosen for the day are from the LSB hymnal: #348 The King Shall Come; #357 O Come Emmanuel vs 1; #345 Hark! A Thrilling Voice is Sounding; #343 Prepare the Royal Highway; and those present for communion will sing #624 The Infant Priest was Holy Born during the distribution.
Psalm 146 reminds us we should not trust in men, their lives and decisions do not last. They cannot save your life. Rather we should trust in God. His word is truth and lasts forever. The psalmist encourages us to consider the signs of God’s kingdom. He cares for the weak and restore us from the troubles of body and soul. When Jesus comes, He will make all things new.
In Isaiah 35, the prophet is given a vision of barren desert being transformed into a verdant oasis. Those who have been living as captives will go there to live in peace and joy. It will be a place of rest and security. The image encourages the people of Jerusalem as they are about to be taken off into captivity. They will return to Zion. Looking further out, the prophecy also indicates what God’s heavenly kingdom will be like. Our ransom to sin has been paid by the life and death of Jesus. Trusting in Him you will obtain gladness and joy; sorrow and sighing shall flee away.
Obviously, Jesus has not returned immediately. God has not revealed the day or hour to us. The reading from James 5 uses imagery of farmers and of prophets to encourages us and all Christians to remain patient and anticipating His return. Don’t grumble. Continue to do the work of Jesus, serving your neighbor in love.
Matthew 11:2-15 John the Baptizer was sent by God to call people to repentance and be ready for Jesus and the arrival of the kingdom of heaven. . Jesus said John the Baptizer was the greatest person alive. Even so, John began to have doubts as his life was threatened. After telling the king to repent for his adultery, John was thrown into prison to be put to death. John wondered if Jesus was really the promised Messiah, or should he look for another. Jesus sent disciples to encourage John, urging him to consider the miracles He (Jesus) was performing as signs that the kingdom of heaven was already here. Jesus is the answer to prophecy. Following Jesus may cause suffering with no immediate relief. But be patient and watchful. God keeps His Word. Jesus is bringing restoration.
I invite you to join us for Bible study on Sunday at 9. Worship begins at 10:30. If you cannot attend, the service can be viewed on Facebook Live. Let me know if you have any prayer requests or questions about the lessons. The Lord be with you. Pastor Boster
COLLECT: Lord Jesus Christ, we humbly implore You to continue to hear our prayers and to lighten the darkness of our hearts by Your visitation; for You live and reign with the Father and the Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
