Focus on Christ Vol. Nov

Transcription

1 Focus on Christ is published monthly by Christ Lutheran Church, Second & Walnut Streets, P.O. Box 549, Stover, Missouri for the purpose of informing members and friends of news and activities within our church and community. Information for and questions about this publication should be directed to Tracey Durant, Church Secretary. Deadline for information to be included is the Wednesday following the monthly church council meeting unless otherwise posted. Copyright 2000 by Christ Lutheran Church. Vol Nov 2017

2 A Word From Pastor Tom The Cities on the Plain Genesis 13:7-13 By Rev. Tom Tuura Pastor of Christ Lutheran Church And there was strife between the herdsmen of Abram's livestock and the herdsmen of Lot's livestock...10 And Lot lifted his eyes and saw all the plain of Jordan, that it was well watered everywhere (before the Lord destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah) like the garden of the Lord, like the land of Egypt as you go toward Zoar. 11 Then Lot chose for himself all the plain of Jordan, and Lot journeyed east...lot pitched his tent even as far as Sodom. 13 But the men of Sodom were exceedingly wicked and sinful against the Lord. We learned early on the three enemies of our souls, the devil, the world, and our own sinful flesh. From one standpoint three different sources of temptation. As far as the third enemy our own flesh or sinful nature (Rom 8:5-7), it seems that people walk around giving the impression that they don't have any struggles with the flesh or the world, or at least it sure seems that way. Blame it all on the devil is certainly easier. The Scripture is absolutely correct when it speaks of all mankind, There is no one who does good not even one. (Rom 3:12). In the case of the Christian and baptized child then, they have a new nature but also an old nature which is susceptible to temptation, (Rom 6:1-4). Temptation is not sin, for even Jesus was tempted. The struggles are real. Even Christians of all ages are caught up in the tangled webs of today's unique digital environment. Many parts of it are good, like the interstate high- ways, which carry legitimate goods and services. But for more and more, it's a secret cauldron of evil that seems to possess them after giving in to the constant temptations of the lower impulses. And today it captures the children more than ever before, who are even less prepared to deal with these powerful temptations. But once a child gives in, it quickly exhausts them, leaving emptiness, isolated from the rest of the flock, and insulated from God's joy and peace. The shame and secrecy then slam the prison door behind them. There is good news. Even though it doesn't seem like it, there is a path to victory. There is hope! I want to talk about the changing landscape that has made this problem the crisis it is today. We'll never know what motivated Lot to move east but he did. And one cannot rule out the interest in the bright lights of these cities on the plain. Of course they were well watered (Gen 13:10). We could say it was a business decision. The new landscape of the cities might have been great for business, but proved to be a disaster for his family. We may not realize that as Lot's situation changed, ours has too; almost all of the landscape surrounding us has changed, just like the cities on the plain. In less than one generation we lost what I'll call the barriers to many sins of the flesh. In the past, if you dared to indulge, you had to physically go to known establishments where that sort of thing was available. Good or bad, that alone kept a certain portion, maybe most people out of trouble. It was the fear of being seen in public. It used to be called the red light district or a similar locality. This the Bible calls the influence of the world. 2

3 Under the old landscape, the home was a sanctuary of goodness, or at least could be. The world's influence could be kept at bay somewhat. There's indication in Genesis that Lot initially located outside the city creating speculation that he recognized the risk and was trying to keep his distance. (Gen 13:12) Our old Adam, (and Eve) could still create plenty of mayhem. And it did. There were a few homes that were not sanctuaries, but caldrons of blackness, homes influenced by the bottle. There were homes with secrets too, just as today. Yet there were many more good homes. Homes with love, where people worked hard and kept busy doing good honorable things, and the worst thing was a deck of cards. As time passed, there were repeated attempts by this influence to gain entry. It succeeded by arriving in a box. Even then, within this box were sights and sounds that for the most part were good and educational, but also sights and sounds that definitely weren't. The landscape begins to shift ever so slightly. Then, just as Lot found himself living within the city, Genesis 14:12, one box turned to many, like the interstate highway system that carries goods and services across the country, as well as our families to grandma's house, it also transports filth into the very corners of our most private places. So no longer do those who dare to indulge in their earthly desires have to risk travel to a place of ill repute, but can merely touch the box. And touching that box they/we do now in secret. Further, even in the old red light districts there were limits, hours of operation, personnel that were needed, as well as Law enforcement, and city ordinances. No more. There is no end, no limit to the evil. A third change is that in the old system, less than a generation ago, the attempt was made to prevent entry to those under age. It wasn't full proof. But the attempt was made. A feeble effort now is attempted, but there is no real effective barrier to prevent the under age from exposure to the darkest, and vilest things. In fact by some it is encouraged. No one under the age of 20 was even alive to see the barriers of the old landscape. The red light district mother warned about is everywhere. Fourthly, one had to venture out in public to participate, or purchase this; now it reigns in secrecy, truly enslaving young and old. But there is power in the name of Jesus. Some of the darkest, most vile things are being redefined, in the name of progress. They are now encouraged to be taught to the under age through the now tiny box. Now in a hellish trifecta, the devil the world and the flesh team up together in these devices and capture the hearts and minds of young and old. They insulate and isolate the hearts and minds of the viewers dulling even the deepest spiritual hunger. If he can't make a casualty, a spiritual cripple is just as good. But there is power in the blood. There is power in the name of Jesus to break every chain. And the first thing is to expose this darkness to light. The solution is simple. Satan hates the Light of the World. So here's 5 things we all must do: Exposure to light. Talk about it. Particularly to the vulnerable. Secret battles are losing battles. 3

4 Repentance, and packaging the problem. It doesn't define you. It had a beginning and it has an ending. I John 1:9, Jesus forgives and cleanses. Understanding the evil trifecta, and trusting God's loving powerful hand of deliverance, (I John 2:15-17) Understanding the forces at work, including our own evil desires, (Romans 8:1-15) It s a warfare for the soul, not an individual's failure. You're not alone. (Eph 6:10-18; 1 Cor. 10:13) Flight The Bible says Flee youthful lusts (2 Timothy 2:22) Like I said in a sermon years ago on Lot in Sodom and Gomorrah, It doesn't matter if you go to Sodom, or if Sodom comes to you, the result is the same. It appears Sodom has come to us. We must shine the light brightly to win the victory and open the prison doors. That s my view from the Blackberry Patch Pulpit Pastor Tom ### Christ Lutheran Church Regular Council Meeting Council Meeting Present Pastor, Ed, Tom, Sharla, Steve, Cheryl, Joyce, Ted, Ken Judy Rehmer addressed council about her job on the nominating committee. Motion to approve minutes by Tom. Second Sharla approved. Pastors report. Enjoyed getting kids together for first communion. Had two session and 6 kids 14 calls. Motion to let Tracey Durant serve Thanksgiving dinner in the church basement on Thanksgiving Day by Tom, second Ted approved. Discussed youth doing Samaritan Purse Shoe Boxes on October 22, 2017 with lunch provided. Make New Job description for exterior groundkeeper to be correct for insurance purpose. Will approve next meeting. Motion to let Mary Jo and Joyce clean out library by Tom second Cheryl approved Discussed bathroom and library projects. Discussed Christmas Display in the Park Pam Witte and Gaylene Bauer are in charge. 4

5 Motion to let Pam Witte do hanging of the greens on Sunday, November 26, 2017 but let Pastor go over material to approve. Motion by Tom second Ted approved. Motion to decorate church on November 26, undecorate on January 7, 2018 by Steve- second Cheryl. Motion by Tom second Ted to give Pastor authority to buy materials to repair deck at parsonage. Discussed budget will finalize at later date. Motion to adjourn Ted - second Cheryl approved. Submitted by Joyce Bauer The Worship Committee last met on Sept 19, Present were Pastor, Judy R., Tracey D., and Mary Jo; not present were Tara B. and Tom P. Mary Jo opened with prayer. The committee discussed the work that has been accomplished since January and all feel that much has been realized, and several changes have been made that people are still adapting to, but have faithfully accepted. There were no recommendations for immediate action in the near future, and all members agreed it had been an eventful and busy year at our church. Note: Changes in hire/rehire dates: The council, at its meeting, changed the dates of hire/rehire for the paid positions at CLC to the calendar year. So this is notification that all the positions are up for rehire. "All paid staff positions are up for rehire. If interested, please let Ed Viebrock or the Trustees know. Decision will be made at the December council meeting." Several topics were touched on including bringing back evening services next year, prioritizing church projects, and keeping attendance strong and steady. Submitted by Tracey Durant 5

6 Acolytes Sun Mon Tue W Bryce Bauer (573) Joe Viebrock (573) Dawson Propst (573) Taylor Smith (573) Altar Care Gaylene Bauer Judy Tuura Nove 1 6:30 am M Study Break 5 9:00 a.m. - S.S./Confirmation 10:15 a.m. - Worship/ Communion :30 am Me Study Break 5th grade Bible Presentation 12 9:00 a.m. - S.S./Confirmation 10:15 a.m. - Worship/ Communion :00 Worship Committee 15 6:30 am Me Study Break 19 9:00 a.m. - S.S./Confirmation 10:15 a.m. - Worship :30 am Me Study Break 26 9:00 a.m. - S.S./Confirmation 10:15 a.m. - Worship :30 am Me Study Break Hanging of the Greens 6

7 mber 2017 ed Thu Fri Sat n s Bible fast n s Bible fast 1:00 pm Women s Work Day 3:30 pm GALC n s Bible fast n s Bible fast n s Bible fast 23 10:15 am Thanksgiving Service 4:00 pm Thanksgiving Dinner 30 1:00 pm Women s Work Day CLC Open House 7

8 Luther League The Luther League kids had a very busy October, putting together layettes for the Festival of Sharing and packing dozens of shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child. We are so very proud of them and how well they reflect the loving, giving spirit of our church. Way to go Luther League! Just a quick note of thanks to the faithful few who give their time each Sunday to teach our youngest members the importance of God s word, and the love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Some of these children attend Sunday School, some Confirmation, others may only visit on occasion, but the importance of these teachings never waivers and neither does the faithfulness of our leaders. God bless you. The S.L.A.M. Choir presented a wonderful musical program for us during the Reformation Sunday/ Honorary Service Sunday. This great group of kids, along with director Tara Bauer, have been working hard for the last couple of months, and it shows! What is in store for the holidays? We will just have to wait and see! 8

9 The Holiday Season has begun! As has been the tradition throughout the years past, Christ Lutheran will hold Thanksgiving Service at 10:00 am on Thanksgiving Day, November 23rd. Take some time before this service to reflect on the ways in which God he has touched and enriched our lives this year. Thanks be to God! Please join us for Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings in the basement of Christ Lutheran Church on Thursday, November 23rd at 4:00 pm. Invite your friends and neighbors who may not have family to share dinner with, or extend the invitation to a stranger in need. There is no cost for the meal, but we ask that you bring a canned food donation for the Stover Food Pantry. Everyone is welcome to the table! Christ Lutheran is welcoming a new tradition this year...the Hanging of the Greens. Pam Witte has generously offered to head up this effort, with help from the CLC Women, as a means of including the children in the decorating of the church for the holidays. This special service will take place on November 26th, in lieu of regular Sunday service, and will be an enchanting presentation of the story behind each decoration and why we use them. During the story, the children will be hanging the decorations and we will watch as our sanctuary becomes transformed for the Christmas Season. 9

10 UPCOMING EVENTS November 23 - Thanksgiving November 26 - Hanging of the Greens December 2 - CLC Open House Thanksgiving. As a child, it meant sitting at the kid s table and watching the Macy s parade. As a young adult the table got bigger, and football was added to the mix. Now as I am older and arguably not so wiser, I still love the parade, I m over football, and actually giving thanks is the new normal. God has blessed our lives immeasurably, and if you stop and try to count those blessings, you begin to realize how much is taken for granted. From the seasonal turning of the leaves to the first sprouts of Spring, we have food, shelter, and love. THAT is the real meat of it. Everything else is just side dishes and pie. Happy Thanksgiving! Tracey D. Festival of Sharing Recap: 8 Quilts for auction donated by Esther Knuth, Carlene Nolting and Jo Warnke with fair market value of $ Pair used eyeglasses - $ MO Baby Bundles - $7, Backpacks of Love - $1, Backpack blankets - $ Blankets/Quilts for adults - $ Readin & Writin Packs - $ Youth Packs for teens - $ Donated items from CLC for sale at Work of Our Hands booth - $ Total Value of all gifts : $12, Several individuals gave of their time and resources to make these gifts possible. In addition, members attended the Festival including Marie Dempster and Tracey Durant who assisted at the quilt auction. Proceeds from the auction provide funds to purchase Church World Service blankets ($10 each) which are distributed worldwide in response to disasters. 124 quilted items donated from across Missouri for the auction raised $27, Thank you, Jo Warnke Women s Work Days Thursday November 9 Thursday November 30 Thursday December 14 10

11 November 1 Joe Viebrock 2 John Leeper Gage Burnam 5 Aiden Denker Jared Bellis 6 Alexa Durant 8 Austin Menning 9 Cheryl Nolting 10 Hannah Bauer 13 Kyle Burnam 15 Emily Bauer 20 Sharon James 21 Dakota Kroeschen 25 Cub Connor 27 Kim Decker Jo Warnke 28 Rhonda Burnam December 6 Shirley Brown 9 Tracey Durant 11 Dietrick Warnke Hollie Viebrock 12 Camryn Propst Mildred Heimsoth Teather Bellis 13 Rita Nolting Tom Propst 16 Virginia Nolting 17 Grant Fischer 21 Brett Rowland 25 Garrett Goetze 26 John Menning 27 Matt Siegel 28 Andin Chinn 31 Brad Bauer 11

12 Address Corrections Please check your mailing label to be sure your name and address are correct. If you have changes, please leave a message at Parish Newsletter of Christ Lutheran Church P.O. Box 549 Stover, MO (573)