Devotion and Readings for April 21

Posted by mllccarmine in Pastor's Ponderings April 21, 2020

Bible Readings and Devotion for April 21, 2020

Here are the references for the readings. Please look these up in your print Bible, your smartphone app Bible, or your online Bible:

Devotion for April 21, 2020

By Pastor David Tinker

Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible. There is are 176 verses in this psalm of praise for God and his Word. When I did read this psalm aloud once many years ago it took me over 15 minutes.

There are a couple of interesting things about this psalm. One is the format, and the other is the constant and recurring theme.

First let’s look at the format. This psalm is formatted as an acrostic poem. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, an “acrostic” is a poem, word puzzle, or other composition in which certain letters in each line form a word or words.” In the case of Psalm 119, the acrostic is not a word, but an alphabet in proper order. It is the Hebrew alphabet, which is logical as the Old Testament is written in Hebrew.

The format is a set of eight verses grouped for each letter of the alphabet. These are in normal Hebrew alphabet succession. Each of the eight verse sections begins every verse with the Hebrew letter in succession. It would be like in English, verses 1-8 each begin with “A,” verses 9-16 begin with “B,” etc. The photo below shows the first eight verses of psalm 119. The Hebrew text reads from right to left, rather than our left to right. The Hebrew letter “Aleph” looks a bit like an “X.” You will see it beginning each verse on the far right of the image. This acrostic does not show up in the translation.

Psalm 119 Aleph

The second thing of note about this psalm is that every verse makes mention of God’s Word or Law in some way. As you read the psalm look for either of these words or any synonym of these in every verse.

The message of the psalm is that God’s Word or Law guides our lives. For me, the centerpiece of the psalm is verse 105, which reads: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Many have memorized this verse in the King James Version, which reads, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”

This verse is one which I go back to over and over again. I also recite it to my toddler son every night at bedtime. I paraphrase it as, “God Word is a lamp unto your feet and a light unto your path.” It is a sort of prayer for me, and for my family, that we be guided by the precious and lifegiving Word of God in our lives.

For all who read this psalm and this verse, use it as an prayer for your own faith and life. As St. Paul prays for us in Colossians 3:16, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; teach and admonish one another in all wisdom; and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God.”

There is a beautiful song based on Psalm 119:105. It is written by Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith, and sung by Amy Grant. It is called, “Thy Word.” This video shown in the link below presents the song with lyrics on the screen. Enjoy.

https://youtu.be/a6LC8cu03Ig

You may need to skip or watch ads at the beginning to see the video on YouTube.

Prayer

Gracious and holy God, give us diligence to seek you, wisdom to perceive you, and patience to wait for you. Grant us, O God, a mind to meditate on you; eyes to behold you; ears to listen for your word; a heart to love you; and a life to proclaim you; through the power of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.

Prayer from Evangelical Lutheran Worship. Copyright © 2020 Augsburg Fortress. All rights reserved.

Devotion and Readings for April 20

Posted by mllccarmine in Pastor's Ponderings April 20, 2020

Cross Crown white

Bible Readings and Devotion for April 20, 2020

Here are the references for the readings. Please look these up in your print Bible, your smartphone app Bible, or your online Bible:

Devotion for April 20, 2020

By Pastor David Tinker

When we look more deeply into the New Testament teachings we find some intensely amazing things in the life and teachings of Jesus. Today’s reading from John chapter 2 is another place in John’s Gospel when Jesus teaches about his role in transforming the Temple of Jerusalem.

In essence he is stating that in his body, his person, he is replacing the Temple. In my faith and learning this has been one of the most fascinating truths. I wrote about this some in the devotion for April 6 – click this link to view. In today’s reading Jesus states, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” Vs. 19b. He speaks in a way which bring some confusion at first. The people listening were thinking he was talking about the actual stone structure where they were. This building had been under construction, by that point, for 46 years. The idea of tearing it down and then rebuilding it in just a few days made no sense to them.

That is where St. John’s commentary on this scene comes into teach us. The Apostle and Evangelist John notes, “But he was speaking of the temple of his body. 22 After he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this; and they believed the scripture and the word that Jesus had spoken.” He was speaking of the temple of his body. The dwelling place of God is Jesus. God’s presence in the world is Jesus. As we relate with Jesus we are connecting with God.

This is taught about in Colossians 1:19-20, where we read, “For in (Jesus) all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him God was pleased to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, by making peace through the blood of his cross.” God’s full self is given to us in Jesus. As we relate with Jesus, we relate with God himself. Just as the Jews connected with God at the Temple building in Jerusalem, those who are united with Jesus relate with God as they relate with Jesus.

Here is another point about the message in this passage. When we look back at John chapter 2, we see that Jesus is also announcing that he is going to die, and then be raised again. It is God’s power, Jesus’ power, which raises up Jesus from the dead. This finally began to make sense for the Apostles after Jesus died on the cross and was raised from the dead. They could look back on all that he had said and done, and they were able to see who is truly was, and that his actions were good and right for the world. They could see that his promise on that day did come true.

By the grace of God we get the joyful opportunity to be in a relationship with Jesus in the here and now, and for our eternity with the Lord. The center of all that we do is Jesus, God the Son. We are drawn to God and understand God by the Holy Spirit. We know God the Father as we know Jesus his one and only begotten Son. We get to know God. On this day let us give thanks for this most powerful truth.

Prayer

God of grace, you have given us minds to know you, hearts to love you, and voices to sing your praise. Fill us with your Spirit, that we may celebrate your glory and worship you in spirit and truth, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.

Prayer from Evangelical Lutheran Worship. Copyright © 2020 Augsburg Fortress. All rights reserved.

Easter 2 Sunday April 19

Posted by mllccarmine in Announcements, Pastor's Ponderings April 19, 2020

Boston Marathon 2017 Men Carry Woman

Readings, Devotion, Prayers and Announcements for the Second Sunday of Easter, April 19, 2020, for both MLLC and Waldeck Evangelical Lutheran Church

As we are not able to meet due as usual to health and safety concerns, yet we are still finding ways to share and celebrate our faith together.

Below are the readings, prayers, and various announcements for this Sunday and this week. The Sunday devotion is at the end of the page.

Remember Your Regular Offerings

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For both of our congregations, Waldeck and MLLC, please remember that our expenses continue even when we are unable to meet as usual. Please make a point to give your offerings as you would on a typical week. Here are some ideas of what to do:

For Waldeck Evangelical Lutheran Church in Ledbetter:

– send your offering by mail to the church office – Waldeck Evangelical Lutheran Church; 6915 Waldeck Church Lane; Ledbetter, TX 78946

– set aside your offerings each week, and then bring these to church when you can be at worship again.

For MLLC in Carmine:

– send your offering by mail to the church office – MLLC, P O BOX 362, Carmine, TX 78932-0362

– set aside your offerings each week, and then bring these to church when you can be at worship again.

– give offerings through the church web site: mllccarmine.com/online-giving This page has a link to our secure giving page. Offerings can be made by bank draft, debit card, or credit card through this special web site.

APRIL 19, 2020

Second Sunday of Easter

First Reading: Acts 2:14a, 22-32

A reading from Acts.

After the Holy Spirit comes to the apostles on Pentecost, Peter preaches the gospel to the gathered crowd. He tells them that Jesus, who obediently went to his death according to God’s plan, was raised from the dead by God. Finally, he appeals to scripture, quoting Psalm 16:8-11, to show that Jesus is the Messiah: though crucified, the risen Jesus is now enthroned.

^14aPeter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed [the crowd], ²²“You that are Israelites, listen to what I have to say: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with deeds of power, wonders, and signs that God did through him among you, as you yourselves know—²³this man, handed over to you according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of those outside the law. ²⁴But God raised him up, having freed him from death, because it was impossible for him to be held in its power. ²⁵For David says concerning him,
‘I saw the Lord always before me,
for he is at my right hand so that I will not be shaken;
²⁶therefore my heart was glad, and my tongue rejoiced;
moreover my flesh will live in hope.
²⁷For you will not abandon my soul to Hades,
or let your Holy One experience corruption.
²⁸You have made known to me the ways of life;
you will make me full of gladness with your presence.’
²⁹“Fellow Israelites, I may say to you confidently of our ancestor David that he both died and was buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. ³⁰Since he was a prophet, he knew that God had sworn with an oath to him that he would put one of his descendants on his throne. ³¹Foreseeing this, David spoke of the resurrection of the Messiah, saying,
‘He was not abandoned to Hades,
nor did his flesh experience corruption.’
³²This Jesus God raised up, and of that all of us are witnesses.”

The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.

Psalm: Psalm 16

¹Protect me, O God, for I take refuge in you;
I have said to the Lord, “You are my Lord, my good above all other.”
²All my delight is in the godly that are in the land,
upon those who are noble among the people.
³But those who run after other gods
shall have their troubles multiplied.
⁴I will not pour out drink offerings to such gods,
never take their names upon my lips.
⁵O Lord, you are my portion and my cup;
it is you who uphold my lot.
⁶My boundaries enclose a pleasant land;
indeed, I have a rich inheritance.
⁷I will bless the Lord who gives me counsel;
my heart teaches me night after night.
⁸I have set the Lord always before me;
because God is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.
⁹My heart, therefore, is glad, and my spirit rejoices;
my body also shall rest in hope.

¹⁰For you will not abandon me to the grave,
nor let your holy one see the pit.
¹¹You will show me the path of life;
in your presence there is fullness of joy, and in your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Second Reading: 1 Peter 1:3-9

A reading from 1 Peter.

This epistle was written to encourage Christians experiencing hardships and suffering because of their faith in Christ. The letter opens by blessing God for the living hope we have through Christ’s resurrection even amid difficult circumstances and surroundings.

³Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! By his great mercy he has given us a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, ⁴and into an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, ⁵who are being protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. ⁶In this you rejoice, even if now for a little while you have had to suffer various trials, ⁷so that the genuineness of your faith—being more precious than gold that, though perishable, is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. ⁸Although you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy, ⁹for you are receiving the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.

Gospel: John 20:19-31

The holy gospel according to John. Glory to you, O Lord.

The risen Jesus appears to his disciples, offering them a benediction, a commission, and the gift of the Holy Spirit. But one of their number is missing, and his unbelief prompts another visit from the Lord.

¹⁹When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” ²⁰After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. ²¹Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” ²²When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. ²³If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.”

²⁴But Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. ²⁵So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe.”
²⁶A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” ²⁷Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe.” ²⁸Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!” ²⁹Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.”

³⁰Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. ³¹But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name.

The gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, O Christ.

Devotion by Pastor David Tinker

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Running competition events are often filled with drama and stories. The Boston Marathon a few years ago was no exception. The story I most appreciated was about a woman from New Jersey who was exhausted near the very end of the race. (Click this link to see the news story from that day) She collapsed and could not finish on her own. Soon she was unconscious. Quickly two runners, a man from Chile and a man from the United Kingdom, came along and picked her up and carried. They were all strangers to each other at that moment. The two men sacrificed a faster time to help this woman complete the last half mile of the 26.2-mile race. With the exhausted woman in their arms these two men carried her to the finish line, and they completed the marathon together. Together they carried on until the end of the race.

Today in St. Peter’s first letter we read about God’s gifts of faith, hope, and love. This is how God leads us toward eternity with God. The context of this passage is that Peter is giving encouragement to Christians who are facing fierce persecution. Although we don’t face significant persecution in our culture, millions of our fellow Christians do every day. For all of us, God provides the faith we need to carry on when the difficult days of our faith arrive. God provides what we need in times such as now.

St. Peter seems to address three questions facing Christians. Although not stated outright we can see him working out these problems which believers face.

Question 1: Is there hope in this life, or only in the life to come?

Question 2: What are we to make of these persecutions?

Question 3: Why should I keep going on?

Let’s look at these three. The first question: “Is there hope in this life, or only in the life to come?” Peters answer is, “Yes, there is hope in both.” This is because of the mercy of God at work in Jesus Christ, those who have faith in him experience something of a new birth now. We are restored to fellowship with our Eternal Father. We also gain a new family – the Church. We have a new a living hope, founded in God’s promises and in the work of Jesus who has defeated death and the tomb in his resurrection.

The second is: “What are we to make of these persecutions?” Peter’s answer is twofold. First, the various trials being suffered were opportunities for Christian to hone their faith, and thereby give glory to God. Persecutions are transformative occasions which lead to deeper confidence in God. Secondly, Peter notes that the persecutions were signs that Jesus will be returning soon. This could be for all believers in the end of all things. It could also be for the individual who dies and then wakes in the presence of the Lord.

Third question: “Why should I keep going on?” Peter’s answer is similar to those marathon runners finishing the race. Basically, keep faithful to the end, for the benefit of others who see our witness, and for our own faithful benefit.

While we are not under persecution in our culture, we do face struggles. It has been weeks since we have met together for worship. For many of us this is the longest we have been away from “in person” worship gatherings in our lifetimes. Some of us this has come at just the wrong time for our spiritual lives. We need the connection with one another and with the Word, but we are not together.

We are working together to increase our connectedness in this time. With the encouragement of God’s Word, including today’s reading, and the stirring of the Holy Spirit, we are doing various things. We are getting the Word of God out to others. We are seeking connection with one another. We are contacting the isolated and lonely. We are praying. We are loving one another and loving our neighbors.

In all this we look to the foundation of our faith in Christ. We look to his mercy for us in this world. This Mercy is expressed through the forgiving work of Jesus Christ who takes on himself the just results of our sin. God’s merciful act is both absolutely necessary and wholly sufficient for our salvation. The greatness of God’s mercy is the greatness of Christ hanging upon a cross, exchanging his “imperishable, undefiled, unfading” life for ours.

The mercy of God in Christ provides us with a “living hope”. In response to God’s love we can only point to the cross of Christ and to God’s mercy to be our sources of Faith, Hope and Love, both now and forever. With these gifts of God we can strive forward to complete the race of our lifetime with the Lord. Thankfully, we have God and we have one another to carry us through to the end.

Prayer

Let us pray – Loving God, we look to you for mercy and strength. Help us to have faith in the work of Jesus. Stir us to have hope for our future with you and one another. Help us to love as you have first loved us. We pray this in the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

*Prayers of Intercession

A: Let us pray for the whole people of God in Christ Jesus, and for all people according to their needs.

A brief silence.

Gracious God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, to you alone be the Majesty, Glory and Honor. We ask that your Holy Spirit stir in each of us a renewed joy in coming to you in prayer each day. Hear us, O God. Your mercy is great.

We pray for all who all who face difficulties or illness of any kind, especially… and also those whom now lift to you aloud or in quiet prayer… Bring your gracious help to all for whom we pray. Hear us, O God. Your mercy is great.

We pray for those Christians and others who were killed or injured in the terror attacks in Sri Lanka. Help the church in that land to be faithful in service and in witness during these trying times. Hear us, O God, Your mercy is great.

Other petitions may be added here.

We pray that the Holy Spirit would draw all people to you. Stir our faith so that we will give a joyful account of the hope which you have planted within us. Open the hearts and minds of those in our community who have not heard and responded to your Word. Hear us, O God. Your mercy is great.

We lift in prayer all who struggle with mourning at this time (including the family and friends of…) . Help us to show mercy and to be supportive of those who grieve. Hear us, O God. Your mercy is great.

P: Into your hands, O Lord, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

LORD’S PRAYER

Prayer Request list for Waldeck Evangelical Lutheran Church of Ledbetter

Health and Well-being Prayer List: Phillip Procell, Brian Shaffer, Sandra Gest, James Smith, Barbara Spence, April Weyand, Fritz Schoenst, Alicia McQuaig, Diana Garik Poentisch, Sally Beettner, Carrie Oltmann, Robin Hardin, Beverly Drescher

Martin Luther Lutheran Church: REMEMBER IN PRAYER: Carol Mertz Leitzel, Janet Schnell Beckworth (both friends of Praise Team leader Jolene Wickel, health concerns and in hospitals); Ricky Eckert (brother of Ronnie Eckert, health concerns); Kalisa Pomykal (Paula Barrick’s sister, medical concerns); Kenny Lorenz (former member Robert Hinze’s relative, serious burns); Nancy Pietsch (former RT-C teacher, health concerns); Johnny Dunham (health concerns); LaVerne Krumrey (friend from Brenham, cancer); Joyce Kelley (friend, health concerns); Jack Walsh (friend of Wade Eilers, recurring melanoma); Bill Clarke (friend of Daryl & Susan Ray, stage 4 cancer); Robert Vaughn (at Texas Neurology, thankful for extended stay for rehab); Carrie Bozarth (friend of Sedalia Ullrich, cancer); Edna Mae Krivacka (friend of Ed and Carol, back home, health concerns)

Sympathy to the family of Ruby Marburger Ivey (Nikki Pohl’s mother) Jeannie Johnson (mother of Kris Colpetzer, grandmother of Matthew and Nick Colpetzer, also family connections with Angelica Colpetzer, Joshua Aranzolo, and Emily Ortiz)

The Ongoing Prayer Concerns may be found in the monthly newsletter.

THIS WEEK at MLLC

Today 5:00 pm-AA Meeting (subject to change)

April 12 5:00 pm-AA Meeting (subject to change)

CONFIRMATION is still being planned for Sunday, May 17, unless otherwise noted, depending on the CDC recommendation.

2020 FLOWER CHART: Three dates are open on the flower chart. They are September 20 and November 1 & 22. A correction to the April newsletter is that May 3 has been filled.

SPECIAL LENTEN ENVELOPES this year are designated for Lutheran Disaster Response of the ELCA. You may send contributions in the mail, or bring it by the office, with the check made out to MLLC and in the memo line, put Lutheran Disaster Response. You may also go to the website to donate.

mlllccarmine/online-giving/

After going to secure giving site link, look for disaster relief – lutheran disaster response

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL will be at MLLC June 14-18, 2020 with the theme Rocky Railway. See the codes on p. 2 of the March newsletter to register your child and volunteer.

Registration is also available at the church web site: https://mllccarmine.com/vacation-bible-school-2020/

Subject to being postponed to another date later in the summer.

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL at Bethlehem Lutheran in Round Top will be June 1-4 from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. with the theme “Anchored.” There are registration forms in the narthex and church office. For more information contact Stacy Eilers at 979-639-1897. Possibly to be postponed to a later date.

CHURCH COUNCIL MEMBER A person is needed to serve as chairperson of the Outreach/Care Committee. Please consider serving in this role.

Devotion and Reading for April 18

Posted by mllccarmine in Pastor's Ponderings April 18, 2020

Ascension Art

Bible Readings and Devotion for April 18, 2020

Here are the references for the readings. Please look these up in your print Bible, your smartphone app Bible, or your online Bible:

Devotion for April 18, 2020

By Pastor David Tinker

There are words, statements, quotes, etc. which are part of our lives in one way or another.

We think of words of presidents such as when Kennedy said, “And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.”

Many can sing or quote the great hymn, “Amazing Grace,” by heart.

Lovers of classic English novels will remember the opening line of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice,” which reads, “It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.”

Although not as well known in our time, the great Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote these lines at the beginning of his poem, “The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere”:

“Listen my children and you shall hear

Of the midnight ride of Paul Revere,

On the eighteenth of April, in Seventy-five;

Hardly a man is now alive

Who remembers that famous day and year.”

This poem is about the ride at the beginning of the American Revolution, 245 years ago today. The complete text of this poem is available at this link. The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere.

I mention these quotes and lines because today’s reading from Matthew 28 is one of the most quoted passages in the Bible. It is often referred to as, “The Great Commission.” Here is what Jesus tells the 11 remaining Apostles as his last words to them: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

There are several elements to this calling or commission of Jesus for his followers. Let’s look briefly at each section.

“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.”

Jesus, as God the Son, has all the same authority and ruling power to give commands to his followers. He has the loving force of God’s truth and word in what he says and does, for he is God.

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…”

Jesus calls the Apostles, and calls us, to “go” into the world with his message. We don’t sit back and wait for others. We go and help people understand and follow the teachings and message of Jesus. This is both a local and a worldwide calling for us.

“baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit…”

Baptism is a God given connection between himself and each person. When we baptize a person, we do it according to the teaching of Jesus and by his authority. We use the name of the authority, the Lord, when we baptize a person. That authority and Word of the Lord is what gives the baptism meaning and power. You will note that the baptismal liturgy provides the God given name, “Father, Son and Holy Spirit,” for each baptism. We don’t make up a new name by which we baptize a person, for that is not our role. The only one who can reverently name God is God along. See the devotion from March 27 regarding name of God.

“and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you.”

In following the teaching of Jesus, when a person is baptized, we also teach them how to follow the way of Jesus. We help them know the Good News, the Gospel of Jesus. We live in a community of the faithful who help each other and help the new converts to follow the way of Jesus.

“And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Jesus concludes his Great Commission with a powerful promise. He will be with us always and forever. In this time between his Ascension and our final reunion with him, he is with us in these and other ways:

The Holy Spirit

The Word of God, written, discussed, proclaimed, spoken, meditated upon

The Sacrament of Holy Baptism

The Sacrament of Holy Communion

Our Fellowship

In those who we serve, for when we serve those in need, we are serving Jesus

And other ways which Jesus chooses to be present among us.

I encourage you to read and memorize this scripture, the Great Commission of Jesus. We can make it our own as we strive to live out what he calls us to do. We can be assured of God’s love for life, both now and forever. We can be assured that God is with us as we respond to his calling for our lives.

Prayer

Blessed Lord God, you have caused the holy scriptures to be written for the nourishment of your people. Grant that we may hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that, comforted by your promises, we may embrace and forever hold fast to the hope of eternal life, which you have given us in Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.

Prayer from Evangelical Lutheran Worship. Copyright © 2020 Augsburg Fortress. All rights reserved.

Devotion and Readings April 17

Posted by mllccarmine in Pastor's Ponderings April 17, 2020

Sun Sky Clouds

Photo: the sky above Belleville, Illinois. Taken by Pastor David Tinker July 2012.

Bible Readings and Devotion for April 17, 2020

Here are the references for the readings. Please look these up in your print Bible, your smartphone app Bible, or your online Bible:

Devotion for April 17, 2020

By Pastor David Tinker

Poetic language in the Holy Scriptures points us to greater truths of our Lord. Today we have four readings from the Psalms. Let’s take a short look at one of these, specifically, Psalm 113. Here is what the psalmist writes in praise of God in verses 2-4:

2 Blessed be the name of the Lord from this time on and forevermore.

3 From the rising of the sun to its setting the name of the Lord is to be praised.

4 The Lord is high above all nations, and his glory above the heavens.

Let’s see how this poetic language tells us about the Lord.

Verse 2, shown above, invites us to praise and honor the name of the Lord. The phrase, “Blessed be…” is a Hebrew way of announcing thanksgiving and honor to something. The greatest one for whom we can give thanks is the Lord himself. The greatest one of whom we can announce honor is that same Lord of all. Our Lord is one who is eternal, never ending and never beginning, so we get to show this praise “from this time on and forevermore.”

Verse 3, shown above, although quite poetic, could be taken the wrong way. It still tells the truth, but in a different way. It states, “From the rising of the sun to its setting.” This does not mean that we withhold praise of God after Sunset through the next morning each day. Think about it this way. Most of humanity is up during the daytime and asleep at night. When we are conscious of our situation, we are called upon to honor the Lord. So, if you are awake before sunrise, in the evening or overnight, for any reason, then you still get the joy of honoring the Lord. The message is: honor the Lord all the time.

Verse 4, shown above, points out the geography of God’s presence. Our God can be wherever he wants to be. In one sense, the Lord is all across the world, and is present in every nation, territory, and land. This does not mean that the Lord avoids international waters. It is simply a poetic way of saying God is anywhere on, in, around the earth where he chooses to be. Remember the prophet Jonah. He mistakenly thought that the Lord was only present at the Temple in Jerusalem or in the Holy Land. He bought a ticket to Tarshish (likely Spain), and tried to flee from his calling to be a prophet of the Lord. He quickly found out that the Lord was present for him everywhere, including in the belly of the giant fish. Since humanity truly needs a restored relationship with God, that he is available to us everywhere on earth is remarkable.

The second part of the message of this verse is that God’s geography includes ruling over all creation. This doesn’t just mean here on earth. God is in charge of all creation, for he made it. As we continue to observe the distant plants, stars, galaxies and astronomical phenomena, we see more and more that the universe, God’s creation, is immense.

God is present in this creation, rules over this creation, and is also available to us right here where we live. For this we can respond with praise and glory and thanksgiving for the Lord all day, all night, and forever more.

Prayer

Loving Lord, Father, Son and Holy Spirit: you are worthy of all praise. From the time we get up until the moment we fall asleep we give you glory. Help us every day to see the wonder of your creation and to give you thanks in all circumstances. We pray this in the Holy Name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Devotion and Readings for April 16

Posted by mllccarmine in Pastor's Ponderings April 16, 2020

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Bible Readings and Devotion for April 16, 2020

Here are the references for the readings. Please look these up in your print Bible, your smartphone app Bible, or your online Bible:

Devotion for April 16, 2020

By Pastor David Tinker

During Confirmation Class over the years I have taught about many things. One thing has been the use of the terms: “disciple” and “apostle.” These words are often used interchangeably due to both a misunderstanding and that both are used to describe the core, twelve followers of Jesus.

A “disciple” is a person who is learning from and following a teacher. It comes from a Latin term for “learner.” An “apostle” is a person who is sent on a mission. It is a word that comes from the Greek term meaning “to send forth”. The twelve followers of Jesus, such as Peter, James, John, Matthew Levi, etc. started as “disciples”, and were eventually the “sent ones” or “apostles.”

One of the ways I have taught these junior high aged students about these terms has been through a demonstration. To teach “disciple,” I would have the students around the table, with Bibles open. The students together were learners, and therefore, “disciples.” They were learning from God’s Word how to know and follow Jesus. The second demonstration was about the word, “apostle.” This word means, “one who is sent on a mission or job.” My demonstration at one church was the following. There was a soft drink vending machine along one wall, over across from where our class met. I pulled out two quarters, 50 cents, and handed these to a student nearby. Her name was Jaclyn, and she is still a friend of mine today in her adulthood. Anyway, I gave Jaclyn 50 cents and instructed her to go across the room and purchase a Diet Coke with Lime from the machine. Her “apostleship” mission was to buy that soft drink. Even though it had nothing to do with Jesus, she got what I meant and walked across the room to buy that drink. Then we as a class discussed the meaning.

I mention all this because of what happens in our reading today. We have Jesus’ encounter with Mary Magdalene. She is the first person to see the resurrected Jesus face to face. We have recorded in John 20 the statement he made to her, and the response she gave in her action. Here is part of what he said to her: “But go to my brothers and say to them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” In this, Mary Magdalene became an apostle. She was sent on a mission by God the Son, Jesus Christ, himself.

Then she does just as our Lord instructed to her. We read, “Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord”; and she told them that he had said these things to her.” She was sent on a mission, and she fulfilled that mission. She brought the message of Jesus’ resurrection to the fellowship of the Apostles. Due to this significant calling for her life Mary Magdalene has been given the title, “Apostle to the Apostles.”

For us today, we are the beneficiaries of Mary Magdalene’s faithful fulfillment of her calling. She brought the message to the Apostles. The Apostles brought the message to others, and eventually someone brought that central message to each of us. We get to continue that line of sharing with others we encounter in this life.

Prayer

Almighty God, your Son first entrusted the apostle Mary Magdalene with the joyful news of his resurrection. Following the example of her witness, may we proclaim Christ as our living Lord and one day see him in glory, for he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Prayer from Evangelical Lutheran Worship. Copyright © 2020 Augsburg Fortress. All rights reserved.

Devotion and Readings for April 15

Posted by mllccarmine in Pastor's Ponderings April 15, 2020

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Bible Readings and Devotion for April 15, 2020

Here are the references for the readings. Please look these up in your print Bible, your smartphone app Bible, or your online Bible:

Devotion for April 15, 2020

By Pastor David Tinker

In today’s reading from Psalm 107 we read a prayer of deliverance in the midst of difficulty. The foundational idea of the psalm is that of God’s strong faithfulness now and in the long term. We begin with, “1 O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever.” This is actually a core truth throughout the Old Testament. God is strong and consistent for us. His love is constant and everlasting. In everything else that we do, and everything else that I write following this today, know this truth: God loves us beyond measure, and he always will.

The psalm continues by noting various difficult situations which the people of God have faced over time. Suffering in the desert. Huddling in dark places in distress. Illness and sin.

With each of these items of distress, we are reminded that the Lord is there for the people. We are once again told of the truth that God loves the people, and his steadfast love is expressed to them over and over.

Something which is always part of life’s struggles and God’s powerful love is the call to repentance. Repentance is the act of expressing deep regret for wrongdoing, and then getting back on track with one’s relationship with God. It is a turning away from sin and being restored to a right connection with the Lord.

Difficult situations can be an opportunity to revisit God’s abundant love for us. These situations can get us thinking about what is truly important in life. We can get a wakeup call of sorts during challenging times.

We are certainly in challenging times. Frequently people tell me that they have never experienced anything like this in their lives. It is not the end of the world, but it is difficult. This is most difficult for the many who are sick. Thousands have died from COVID19 illness. Others have lost jobs. Some have lost loved ones yet are unable to have a traditional funeral gathering with supportive family and friends. Some are struggling to pay their bills. Millions are lonely and isolated. The list can go on.

When we face difficulty there is always the call to repentance. A Bible passage I think of in light of this is Luke 13:1-5, which reads: “1 At that very time there were some present who told (Jesus) about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. 2 He asked them, “Do you think that because these Galileans suffered in this way they were worse sinners than all other Galileans? 3 No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all perish as they did. 4 Or those eighteen who were killed when the tower of Siloam fell on them—do you think that they were worse offenders than all the others living in Jerusalem? 5 No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all perish just as they did.”

This passage notes that when we see difficulty in the lives of others, our response needs to be evaluating our own connection or disconnection with God. It is not to be about condemning others. It is always about getting back on track with the Lord. So, when life is tough for you, or someone else, it is time to repent, it is time to get back on track with the Lord.

The psalm ends with this statement: “Let those who are wise give heed to these things, and consider the steadfast love of the Lord.” Because the steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, there is always and every day an opportunity to turn from our sin and to get reconnected with God.

Prayer

Loving God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit: comfort us with your steadfast love. Guide us to a closer walk with you. Turn our hearts away from sin and guide us to a renewed relationship with you. We pray this in the Holy Name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Devotion and Reaings for April 13 & 14

Posted by mllccarmine in Pastor's Ponderings April 14, 2020

Emmaus Painting Zünd_Gang_nach_Emmaus_1877

There is a print of this famous painting of the Road to Emmaus in the Narthex at MLLC in Carmine.

Bible Readings and Devotion for April 13 and 14, 2020

Here are the references for the readings. Please look these up in your print Bible, your smartphone app Bible, or your online Bible:

April 13:

Mark 16:1-20

Psalm 105

Ezekiel 3

April 14:

Luke 24:1-49

Psalm 106

Ezekiel 4

Devotion for April 13 and 14, 2020

By Pastor David Tinker

Chapter 24 of Luke’s Gospel is packed with powerful and amazing events and experiences in the new life of the Risen Savior, Jesus Christ our Lord. Let’s look briefly at the various things which happen in this section.

The Resurrection of Jesus

The rising of Jesus from the dead occurred in the early morning on the first day of the week. The Jewish calendar week begins on Sunday. So, the weekend of our culture is the end of one week and the beginning of the next week.

What we have in Luke shows just the discovery of the empty tomb and the visit by the angels. The women have not yet seen Jesus. They go back to where the disciples are hiding and tell them, but they disciples don’t believe it at first. They see it as an “idle tale.” Even so, St. Peter runs to the tomb and verifies the announcement of the women.

There is a wonderful question by the angels in this scene. “Why do you look for the living among the dead?” they ask. They go on to remind the women that Jesus had promised this rising from the dead long before his arrest and crucifixion. They are not in trouble for misunderstanding. Rather, this visit is a gift of love and faith for them to get back on track with the message of Jesus. It is as if the angels are saying, “So, in this time of confusion and sadness at the death of Jesus, things are hard. But there is wonderful news. Remember the promises of your leader? These are all coming true for you and the world. He is alive, just as he promised. Praise the Lord!”

The Walk to Emmaus

This is one of my favorite passages in all of the Bible. We have this scene in which two people witness the living and resurrected Jesus while traveling. This happened on the evening following Jesus’ rising from the dead. At first they do not recognize this man walking with them as the Lord Jesus. At least in part, they couldn’t believe that Jesus was truly alive again. We know it is Jesus, but they are still not fully aware of who this is.

While on the road they discuss with the mysterious traveler, Jesus, about all that has happened along the way. He begins to explain how the ministry of Jesus is a grand fulfillment of the promises of God in the Hebrew scriptures. That would be an amazing Bible study on which to sit in.

In the end Jesus shows that he is the traveler when he breaks bread, that is offers the Holy Communion to the two traveling disciples. We still get to know Jesus is with us in the bread and wine when we break the bread in this beautiful sacrament.

Jesus Appears to His Disciples

Two things I want to point out regarding this encounter. The first is his announcement of “peace be with you.” This is a powerful word of God which brings just what he says, Peace. We continue to bring the loving peace of God to each other. That word to each other is a strong announcement to one another in our life together. We share this peace in worship, but that is not the only context for announcing this message. Whenever and wherever another person needs the loving peace of Jesus in his or her life is a good time to announce this truth. It may be presented in these exact words of Jesus, or in some other way which brings assurance and peace to the other person.

The second is that he gives proof that his is truly raised from the dead. He gives them proof of his bodily resurrection from the dead. This matters immensely. His action of showing that he is a real, living body shows that he is not what his opponents of all times often say. Some assert that he was a ghost, but a ghost can’t eat. Some assert that the resurrection is simply the idea of warm feelings and inspiration based on the loving actions of Jesus. It is asserted that it was an exciting time, and people wanted to see him alive, so they made up a story that he was raised from the dead. Inspiration, excitement, and love don’t eat food. It has been asserted that it was another person who did these things, but he connects with them as his fully real self, just as his death was a true death of Jesus himself.

The Ascension of Jesus

At some point after the other events Jesus blesses his disciples and then Ascends out of their sight. As written in in this exact context it is unclear of when this happens. Some wonder if Luke suggests that this happens on the day of the Resurrection. He gives no note of time passing between the visit with the disciples and this event.

To clarify the timing, we look to St. Luke’s second book in this two-volume set, the Acts of the Apostles. We see in Acts 1:3, where Luke writes, “After his suffering he presented himself alive to them by many convincing proofs, appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God.” To see the whole context for this passage, see Acts 1:1-11.

The Ascension was necessary for the Good News, the Gospel message, to be brought to the ends of the earth. It was necessary so that the work, teachings, and ministry of Jesus could be shared and built up in locations anywhere people can gather. This is brought by the Holy Spirit, the Word of God, and the ministry of teachers, leaders, pastors, and all Christians. We are beneficiaries of this wonderful gift of Jesus to us. Jesus leaves us in one sense, yet he is with us in another sense. He is not walking among us as he did in his time of ministry, but he is with us in Word (in all its senses and ways), Sacraments (Baptism and Communion), the Holy Spirit, our fellowship, and in those who we serve.

There is a great deal going on in this chapter. It brings Luke’s first volume to a close, and invites us into his second volume, the Acts of the Apostles. On Sundays in this Season of the Resurrection our first readings are always from this dramatic account of the early church.

Prayer

O God, whose blessed Son made himself known to his disciples in the breaking of bread, open the eyes of our faith, that we may behold him in all his redeeming work, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Resurrection Sunday April 12

Posted by mllccarmine in Announcements, Pastor's Ponderings April 12, 2020

Empty Tomb

Readings, Devotion, Prayers and Announcements for Resurrection Sunday, April 12, 2020, for both MLLC and Waldeck Evangelical Lutheran Church

As we are not able to meet due as usual to health and safety concerns, yet we are still finding ways to share and celebrate our faith together.

Below are the readings, prayers, and various announcements for this Sunday and this week. The Sunday devotion is at the end of the page.

Remember Your Regular Offerings

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For Waldeck Evangelical Lutheran Church in Ledbetter:

– send your offering by mail to the church office – Waldeck Evangelical Lutheran Church; 6915 Waldeck Church Lane; Ledbetter, TX 78946

– set aside your offerings each week, and then bring these to church when you can be at worship again.

For MLLC in Carmine:

– send your offering by mail to the church office – MLLC, P O BOX 362, Carmine, TX 78932-0362

– set aside your offerings each week, and then bring these to church when you can be at worship again.

YouTube video of the Sunday Service

Click this link.

APRIL 12, 2020

The Resurrection of our Lord

First Reading: Acts 10:34-43

A reading from Acts. Peter’s sermon, delivered at the home of Cornelius, a Roman army officer, is a summary of the essential message of Christianity: Everyone who believes in Jesus, whose life, death, and resurrection fulfilled the words of the prophets, “receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”

³⁴Peter began to speak to [the people]: “I truly understand that God shows no partiality, ³⁵but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. ³⁶You know the message he sent to the people of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ—he is Lord of all. ³⁷That message spread throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John announced: ³⁸how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; how he went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. ³⁹We are witnesses to all that he did both in Judea and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree; ⁴⁰but God raised him on the third day and allowed him to appear, ⁴¹not to all the people but to us who were chosen by God as witnesses, and who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. ⁴²He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one ordained by God as judge of the living and the dead. ⁴³All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”

The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.

Psalm: Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24

¹Give thanks to the Lord, for the Lord is good;
God’s mercy endures forever.
²Let Israel now declare,
“God’s mercy endures forever.”
¹⁴The Lord is my strength and my song,
and has become my salvation.
¹⁵Shouts of rejoicing and salvation echo in the tents of the righteous:
“The right hand of the Lord acts valiantly!
¹⁶The right hand of the Lord is exalted!
The right hand of the Lord acts valiantly!”
¹⁷I shall not die, but live,
and declare the works of the Lord.
¹⁸The Lord indeed punished me sorely,
but did not hand me over to death.
¹⁹Open for me the gates of righteousness;
I will enter them and give thanks to the Lord.
²⁰“This is the gate of the Lord;
here the righteous may enter.”
²¹I give thanks to you, for you have answered me
and you have become my salvation.
²²The stone that the builders rejected
has become the chief cornerstone.
²³By the Lord has this been done;
it is marvelous in our eyes.
²⁴This is the day that the Lord has made;
let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Second Reading: Colossians 3:1-4

A reading from Colossians. Easter means new life for us as it first meant new life for Christ. His resurrection reshapes the entire focus and motivation for our lives since we are now hidden with the risen Christ in God.

¹If you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. ²Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth, ³for you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. ⁴When Christ who is your life is revealed, then you also will be revealed with him in glory.

The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.

Gospel: Matthew 28:1-10

The holy gospel according to Matthew. Glory to you, O Lord.

Sorrow gives way to “fear and great joy” when two women are sent by an angel to proclaim the good news: Jesus is risen!

¹After the sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. ²And suddenly there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord, descending from heaven, came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. ³His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. ⁴For fear of him the guards shook and became like dead men. ⁵But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. ⁶He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. ⁷Then go quickly and tell his disciples, ‘He has been raised from the dead, and indeed he is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see him.’ This is my message for you.” ⁸So they left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. ⁹Suddenly Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came to him, took hold of his feet, and worshiped him. ¹⁰Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”

The gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, O Christ.

Devotion

By Pastor David Tinker

Matthew 28:1-10 “Early Morning Surprise”

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

We have gathered here in the morning to remember and to celebrate the greatest victory in the world. It reminds me of a day which some confuse with this day.

The story is told of a Sunday school teacher and her students. They had gathered at their regular class time. The teacher asked her class on the Palm Sunday, the Sunday before Easter, if they know what happened on Easter and why it was important.

One little girl spoke up saying: “Easter is when the whole family gets together, and you eat turkey and sing about the pilgrims and all that.”

“No, that’s not it,” said the teacher.

“I know what Easter is,” a second student responded. “Easter is when you get a tree and decorate it and give gifts and everybody sings lots of songs.”

“Nope, that’s not it either,” replied the teacher.

Finally, a third student spoke up, “Easter is when Jesus was killed, and put in a tomb, and left for three days.”

“Ah, thank goodness somebody knows,” the teacher thought to herself.

But then the student went on: “Then everybody gathers at the tomb early in the morning and waits to see if Jesus comes out, and if he sees his shadow he has to go back inside, and we have six more weeks of winter.”

We are celebrating as the church has done on Resurrection Day since the first Century. Our reason for doing this is drastically more important than Ground Hog Day. Over the centuries Christians have gathered at the local cemetery on Resurrection Sunday morning. Our current situation does not permit that action, so we are here at the church and at our homes. Even so, ponder this with me. We gather in the place where we find the tombs of our neighbors and saints. We gather there early in the morning to remind ourselves of what this day is all about. We remember that it was in a graveyard of some sort where the women went to offer care for the body of their Lord and teacher, Jesus. They expected to find the tomb door closed, and the body of Jesus in the tomb. What they found was the stone rolled away and the body was gone. This was a big surprise. Then to their utter amazement, an angel appeared and told them something even more surprising, “Do not be afraid; I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay.”

With this immensely surprising news they found that the promises of Jesus were true. He had endured the cross and death for the forgiveness of sin. He was now alive. He was raised from the dead. Over the next month or so over 500 different people were able to see and visit with Jesus, the Risen Savior. He then ascended to the Father and out of their sight and gave his followers the Holy Spirit, one another, and the Word of God so that they, and we, might know the Lord and live with him now and forever.

When we gather on this day, whether in our homes, at the church, or at the cemetery near dozens of full tombs, we do this to celebrate the one “Empty Tomb”. Even though the followers of Jesus were told in advance by Jesus himself that this would happen, it was still a surprise. It was beyond belief, yet it was true. The promise of God the Son, Jesus Christ, came true.

Today we gather in our various ways to celebrate the greatest truth that Jesus has died for us, and that he has defeated the powers of sin, death and evil for us. He is still fully alive today, never to die again. By the gift of faith, we know that His tomb is empty, for he was raised to life and walked out of the tomb. On this day of Resurrection, we celebrate the surprise of his empty tomb. We celebrate that we, by faith, will follow him through life, and through death, and on to eternal life.

Let us pray – God of mercy, we no longer look for Jesus among the dead, for he is alive and has become the Lord of life. Increase in our minds and hearts the risen life we share with Christ, and help us to grow as your people toward the fullness of eternal life with you, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

*Prayers of Intercession

A: Let us pray for the whole people of God in Christ Jesus, and for all people according to their needs.

A brief silence.

Almighty God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, on this day we celebrate the glory of the Resurrection. Draw us to yourself so that we might be freed from the power of sin, death and evil. Lead us to new life in you. Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

Your Spirit helps us to believe in you. May this same Holy Spirit enable us to bear witness to the greatest truth that Jesus Christ is risen from the dead. Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

We pray for all who need your touch of care and healing. On this day we lift in prayer…and also those whom we now name aloud or in quiet prayer… Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

You are the source of all mercy and consolation. We pray for all who mourn, especially the family and friends of… Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

P: Into your hands, O Lord, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

LORD’S PRAYER

Announcements and Prayer Request list for Waldeck Evangelical Lutheran Church of Ledbetter

REMEMBER IN PRAYER: Ruby Ivey (Nikki Pohl’s mother, on hospice); Ricky Eckert (brother of Ronnie Eckert, health concerns); Jeannie Johnson (grandmother of Matthew & Nick Colpetzer, Joshua Aranzolo, and Emily Ortiz, chronic pain); J. C. Pohl (health concerns); Kalisa Pomykal (Paula Barrick’s sister, medical concerns); Kenny Lorenz (former member Robert Hinze’s relative, serious burns); Nancy Pietsch (former RT-C teacher, health concerns); Johnny Dunham (health concerns); LaVerne Krumrey (friend from Brenham, cancer); Joyce Kelley (friend, health concerns); Jack Walsh (friend of Wade Eilers, recurring melanoma); Bill Clarke (friend of Daryl & Susan Ray, stage 4 cancer); Robert Vaughn (at Texas Neurology, thankful for extended stay for rehab); Carrie Bozarth (friend of Sedalia Ullrich, cancer); Edna Mae Krivacka (friend of Ed and Carol, back home, health concerns)

Sympathy to the families of Elisabeth McDaniel (mother of R.W. Crawford, friend of Alvis Mueller);

The Ongoing Prayer Concerns may be found in the monthly newsletter.

THIS WEEK at MLLC

Today 5:00 pm-AA Meeting (subject to change)

April 12 5:00 pm-AA Meeting (subject to change)

CONGRATULATIONS to Sierra & Alan Richard on the birth of their daughter, Brinley Adeline Richard, born March 10, 2020. She weighed 8 lbs. 3 oz. and was 20 7/8 inches in length. From MLLC grandparents are Ronda & Mark Kunkel and great grandparents are Dean & Joyce Ullrich. She was also welcomed by

CONFIRMATION is still being planned for Sunday, May 17, unless otherwise noted. It was changed since the MS150 Bike Ride was to come through Carmine on May 3, but that event has now been cancelled.

2020 FLOWER CHART: Three dates are open on the flower chart. They are September 20 and November 1 & 22. A correction to the April newsletter is that May 3 has been filled.

http://mlllccarmine/online-giving/

See the line for: disaster relief-Lutheran disaster response

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL will be at MLLC June 14-18, 2020 with the theme Rocky Railway. See the codes on p. 2 of the March newsletter to register your child and volunteer.

Registration is also available at the church web site: https://mllccarmine.com/vacation-bible-school-2020/

Subject to being postponed to another date.

CHURCH COUNCIL MEMBER A person is needed to serve as chairperson of the Outreach/Care Committee. Please consider serving in this role.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Week ending 3/21/2020

Church Income $6,435.01

Church Expenses $1,262.67

Salaries & Benefits 108.00

Camping Ministry 520.00

Utilities 292.50

Envelopes 248.87

Miscellaneous 93.30

Net Income: $5,172.34

Week ending 3/28/2020

Church Income $2,260.00

Church Expenses $4,456.66

Salaries & Benefits 3,817.66

Printing 564.00

Miscellaneous 75.00

Net Loss: $2,196.66

Year to Date Net Income: $1,081.95

Devotion and Readings for Vigil of Easter

Posted by mllccarmine in Pastor's Ponderings April 11, 2020

EasterVigilCandles

Bible Readings and Devotion for April 11, 2020 – the Great Vigil of Easter

Here are the references for the readings. Please look these up in your print Bible, your smartphone app Bible, or your online Bible:

Devotion for April 11, 2020

By Pastor David Tinker

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

The Pascha Homily of St. John Chrysostom is shared annually in thousands of Christian congregations at the Great Vigil of Easter. For many years I have joined in this tradition when leading the Vigil of Easter services in Carmine and in the congregation I served in Ohio previously. Pascha in some form is a commonly used name for what we call “Easter” in English.

“If any man be devout and love God, let him enjoy this fair and radiant triumphal feast. If any man be a wise servant, let him rejoicing enter into the joy of his Lord. If any have labored long in fasting, let him now receive his recompense. If any have wrought from the first hour, let him today receive his just reward. If any have come at the third hour, let him with thankfulness keep the feast. If any have arrived at the sixth hour, let him have no misgivings; because he shall in nowise be deprived therefore. If any have delayed until the ninth hour, let him draw near, fearing nothing. If any have tarried even until the eleventh hour, let him, also, be not alarmed at his tardiness; for the Lord, who is jealous of his honor, will accept the last even as the first; he gives rest unto him who comes at the eleventh hour, even as unto him who has wrought from the first hour.

And he shows mercy upon the last, and cares for the first; and to the one he gives, and upon the other he bestows gifts. And he both accepts the deeds, and welcomes the intention, and honors the acts and praises the offering. Wherefore, enter you all into the joy of your Lord; and receive your reward, both the first, and likewise the second. You rich and poor together, hold high festival. You sober and you heedless, honor the day. Rejoice today, both you who have fasted and you who have disregarded the fast. The table is full-laden; feast ye all sumptuously. The calf is fatted; let no one go hungry away.

Enjoy ye all the feast of faith: Receive ye all the riches of loving-kindness. let no one bewail his poverty, for the universal kingdom has been revealed. Let no one weep for his iniquities, for pardon has shown forth from the grave. Let no one fear death, for the Savior’s death has set us free. He that was held prisoner of it has annihilated it. By descending into Hell, He made Hell captive. He embittered it when it tasted of His flesh. And Isaiah, foretelling this, did cry: Hell, said he, was embittered, when it encountered Thee in the lower regions. It was embittered, for it was abolished. It was embittered, for it was mocked. It was embittered, for it was slain. It was embittered, for it was overthrown. It was embittered, for it was fettered in chains. It took a body, and met God face to face. It took earth, and encountered Heaven. It took that which was seen, and fell upon the unseen.

O Death, where is your sting? O Hell, where is your victory? Christ is risen, and you are overthrown. Christ is risen, and the demons are fallen. Christ is risen, and the angels rejoice. Christ is risen, and life reigns. Christ is risen, and not one dead remains in the grave. For Christ, being risen from the dead, is become the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. To Him be glory and dominion unto ages of ages. Amen.”

Prayer

Eternal giver of life and light, this holy night shines with the radiance of the risen Christ. Renew your church with the Spirit given us in baptism, that we may worship you in sincerity and truth and may shine as a light in the world, through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.