“For we rejoice when we ourselves are weak but you are strong; this we also pray for, that you be made complete.  For this reason I am writing these things while absent, so that when present I need not use severity, in accordance with the authority which the Lord gave me for building up and not for tearing down” (2 Corinthians 13:9-10).

Pray that you may be made complete.  This is the goal, that we would be like Christ, that is, complete in Him.  Come then and continue the journey into becoming like Christ and let nothing hinder you on this journey.  Let those whom the Lord sends build you up that you may be strong in faith and join in the mutual good works the Lord intends for all who believe.  Do these things willingly.

Lord, a new heart is required to be a person of faith.  Lead me, Lord, in the way of life that I would walk willingly and humbly under Your guidance.  Let me not become puffed up or vain, but grant a listening ear and a humble disposition that I may simply walk forward on the narrow path You have set before me.  Let me be built up according to Your will and become complete as You intend.

Lord Jesus, You have come to us as One who is complete to lead those who follow into the completeness You are.  Guide me this day, and whether learning, teaching, or both, guide me in the way You would have me go knowing that in You is all hope and an eternal future.  May I be complete even as You are complete that in all things I may know and share in Your goodness.  Amen.

NOTE: LBW – Lutheran Book of Worship (The Green Book)

WOV – With One Voice (The Blue Book)

LSB – Lutheran Service Book (The Maroon Book)
ELW – Evangelical Lutheran Worship (The Cranberry Book)

There are versions of some hymns that are superior in LSB and I recommend using them if possible. Also, there are some superb hymns in LSB that aren’t available in the other hymnals. When I suggest one of the latter, I try to include an alternative from LBW or WOV. I recommend that a license and DVD of downloadable hymns from LSB be purchased if you are looking to expand your hymnody. There are, in ELW, some familiar hymns that have been drastically altered, which I try to note. ELW also has some fine hymns not available in the other hymnals, or has, interestingly, a more “traditional” translation or harmonization.

Color for the day is indicated for each Sunday. Primary liturgical calendar taken from Sola Publishing (www.solapublishing.org), based on LSB. Also, I include the lessons from the Revised Common Lectionary (RCL) found in ELW and used in some congregations. It often overlaps the Sola/LCMS calendar lectionary, but when there are differences, I will note them.

Because some of the prayers of confession, as well as offertory and post-communion prayers, provided on certain resource pages lack theological heft or linguistic elegance, I have added some seasonal prayers that you are free to cut, paste, and revise as needed. They are modified from the copyright-free Online Book of Common Prayer, or are my own creation. These are found on the following pages. The regular prayers of intercession will, as usual, be provided weekly in their own Word documents.

For General/Green Season Use: A Brief Order of Confession and Holy Absolution

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son+, and of the Holy Spirit: Amen.

Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.

Silence may be kept.

Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen.

Almighty God have mercy on you, forgive you all your sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen you in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep you in eternal life. Amen.

For General/Green Season Use: The Gospel Acclamation (Spoken)

Alleluia. Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life; you have the words of eternal life. Alleluia.

OR

Alleluia. Your Word, O Lord, is truth; consecrate us in the truth. Alleluia.

For General/Green Season Use: The Offertory Prayer

Let us pray. Almighty and eternal God, so draw our hearts to you, so guide our minds, so fill our imaginations, so control our wills, that we may be wholly yours, utterly dedicated unto

you; and then use us, we pray you, as you will, and always to your glory and the welfare of your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

OR

Let us pray. Heavenly Father, we humbly offer to you the gifts of our treasures, talents, and time. Use them to you glory, and for the benefit of all your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

For General/Green Season Use: The Great Thanksgiving and Proper Preface

The Lord be with you. And also with you.

Lift up your hearts. We lift them to the Lord.

Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right to give him thanks and praise.

It is right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to give thanks to you, Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth. For you are the source of light and life, you made us in your image, and called us to new life in Jesus Christ our Lord; who on the first day of the week overcame death and the grave, and by his glorious resurrection opened to us the way of everlasting life. Therefore we praise you, joining our voices with Angels and Archangels and with all the company of heaven, who forever sing this hymn to proclaim the glory of your Name:

For General/Green Season Use: The Eucharistic Prayer

Holy and gracious Father: In your infinite love you made us for yourself, and, when we had fallen into sin and become subject to evil and death, you, in your mercy, sent Jesus Christ, your only and eternal Son, to share our human nature, to live and die as one of us, to reconcile us to you, the God and Father of all. He stretched out his arms upon the cross, and offered himself, in obedience to your will, a perfect sacrifice for the whole world.

On the night he was handed over to suffering and death, our Lord Jesus Christ took bread; and when he had given thanks to you, he broke it, and gave it to his disciples, and said, “Take, eat: This is my Body, which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.” After supper he took the cup of wine; and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and said, “Drink this, all of you: This is my Blood of the new Covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.”

Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith:

Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.

We celebrate the memorial of our redemption, O Father, with praise and thanksgiving. Recalling our Savior’s death, resurrection, and ascension, we pray that you would sanctify these gifts by your Holy Spirit, to be for your people the Body and Blood of your Son, the holy food and drink of new and unending life in him. Sanctify us also that we may faithfully receive this holy Sacrament, and serve you in unity, constancy, and peace; and at the last day bring us with all your saints into the joy of your eternal kingdom.

All this we ask through your Son Jesus Christ: By him, and with him, and in him, in the unity of the Holy Spirit all honor and glory is yours, Almighty Father, now and forever. AMEN.

OR

And so, Father, we bring you these gifts. Sanctify them by your Holy Spirit to be for your people the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ our Lord.

On the night he was betrayed he took bread, said the blessing, broke the bread, and gave it to his friends, and said, “Take, eat: This is my Body, which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.”

After supper, he took the cup of wine, gave thanks, and said, “Drink this, all of you: This is my Blood of the new Covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.”

Father, we now celebrate the memorial of your Son. By means of this holy bread and cup, we proclaim his death and resurrection, until he comes again. Gather us by this Holy Communion into one body in your Son Jesus Christ. Make us a living sacrifice of praise. By him, and with him, and in him, in the unity of the Holy Spirit all honor and glory is yours, Almighty Father, now and forever. AMEN.

For General/Green Season Use: Post-Communion Prayer

Eternal God, heavenly Father, you have graciously accepted us as living members of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ, and you have fed us with spiritual food in the Sacrament of his Body and Blood. Send us now into the world in peace, and grant us strength and courage to love and serve you with gladness and singleness of heart; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

OR

Almighty and ever-living God, we thank you for feeding us with the most precious Body and Blood of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ; and for assuring us that we are living members of the Body of your Son, and heirs of your eternal kingdom. Send us out to do the work you have given us to do, to love and serve you as faithful witnesses of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Lessons and Suggested Hymns,

September 13: 15^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 19)

Or Holy Cross Day, Transferred

15^th Sunday after Pentecost lessons and Hymns

Genesis 50:15-21 (Joseph forgives his brothers)

            (ELW, Ezekiel 33:7-11, You are a sentinel, so warn those who sin. I do not desire the death of sinners, but that they turn to me and live)

Psalm 103:1-12 (Bless the Lord, O my soul; he has not dealt with us according to our sins)

Romans 14:1-12 (Don’t quarrel with those weaker in faith over opinions;

whether we live or die, it’s unto the Lord)

Matthew 18:21-35 (Parable of the unforgiving servant)

********************

Opening Hymn: Praise to the Lord, the Almighty (nice Psalm paraphrase)

(LBW #543, ELW #858 Note: ELW #859 is the politically correct “re-translation”; LSB #790)

OR (if you’re up for a challenging but dance-like tune and a paraphrase of the Psalm)

My Soul, Now Praise Your Maker (LSB #820)

Hymn of the Day: Come Down, O Love Divine (LBW #508, ELW #804, LSB #501)

Communion 1: I Lay My Sins on Jesus (LBW #305, LSB #606)

OR Bread of Life, Our Host and Meal (ELW #464)

Communion 2: Forgive Our Sins as We Forgive (LBW #307, ELW #605, LSB #843)

Closing Hymn: Son of God, Eternal Savior (LBW #364, ELW #655, LSB #842)

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Holy Cross, Transferred, Lessons and Hymns

Isaiah 45:21-25 (I am God; there is no other. To me every knee shall bow)

OR Numbers 21:4-9 (Moses fashions a bronze serpent; those bitten

by serpents look and are healed.)

Psalm 98:1-5 (Let all creation and all God’s people praise his vindication and victory,

his steadfast love and mercy.

1 Corinthians 1:18-24 (The message of the Cross is foolishness and a stumbling block

 to those who perish; for the redeemed, it is the power and wisdom of God.

John 12:20-33 (“I, when I am lifted up, will draw all people to myself; Father, glorify thy name!”)

****************

Opening Hymn: Lift High the Cross (LBW #377, ELW #660, LSB #837)

Hymn of the Day: There in God’s Garden (WOV #668, ELW #342)

Communion Hymn #1: In the Cross of Christ I Glory (LBW #104, ELW #324, LSB #427)

            OR Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross (ELW #335)

Communion Hymn #2: What Wondrous Love is This (LBW #385, ELW #666, LSB #543)

Closing Hymn: When I Survey the Wondrous Cross (LBW #482, ELW #803, LSB #425/426)

September 20: 16^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 20)

OR St. Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist (Transferred)

16^th Sunday after Pentecost Lessons and Hymns

Isaiah 55:6-9 (Seek the Lord; he will abundantly pardon, for his ways are not our ways)

            (ELW, Jonah 3:10-4:11, Jonah’s ticked at God’s mercy; God’s rejoinder)

Psalm 27:1-9 (The Lord is my light and salvation, whom then shall I fear?)

            (ELW, Psalm 145:1-8, Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised)

Philippians 1:12-14, 19-30 (To live is Christ, to die is gain; for your sake, I will remain; only live lives worthy of your calling in Christ)

            (ELW, Philippians 1:21-30)

Matthew 20:1-16 (Parable of the 11^th-hour workers in the vineyard)

************************

Opening Hymn: Evening and Morning (LBW #465, ELW #761, LSB #726)

OR for a Hispanic paraphrase of Psalm 27, The Lord is My Light (LSB #723)

OR (If using the Jonah text) There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy (LBW #290, ELW #588)

Hymn of the Day: Hark, the Voice of Jesus Calling (LBW #381, LSB #827)

OR How Clear is Our Vocation, Lord (lovely, fairly familiar tune) (LSB #853)

Communion 1: For Me to Live is Jesus (LSB #742)

OR O Jesus, I Have Promised (LBW #503, ELW #810)

Communion 2: Lord, Whose Love in Humble Service (LBW #423, ELW #712, LSB #848)

Closing Hymn: Lord of All Hopefulness (LBW #469, ELW #765, LSB #738)

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

St. Matthew, Transferred, Lessons and Hymns

Ezekiel 2:8-3:11 (The prophet eats the scroll filled with God’s word.

 God makes him hard-headed to speak to stubborn people)

Psalm 119:33-40 (Teach me your statutes; turn my heart to your decrees)

Ephesians 2:4-10 (In great love, God forgives our trespasses; through grace we’re saved.

We’re created for good works in Christ, which he prepared before we were born)

            OR Ephesians 4:7-16 (God gives gifts – some are evangelists – to build up the body of

Christ to full maturity, rooted and grounded in him.)

Matthew 9:9-13 (The calling of Matthew)

**********************

Opening Hymn: Word of God, Come Down to Earth (WOV #716, ELW #510, LSB #545)

Hymn of the Day: By All Your Saints in Warfare (LBW #178, v. 1, 18, 3; ELW #421 “By all your saints still striving,” v.1, 20, last; LSB #518, v. 1, 25, 3)

OR Preach You The Word and Plant It Home (LSB #586; this is a fantastic hymn.

If you can get the licensing from CPH for it, by all means do so!)

Communion Hymn #1: O Jesus, I Have Promised (LBW #503, ELW #810)

Communion Hymn #2: Lord, Whose Love in Humble Service (LBW #423, ELW #712, LSB #848)

Closing Hymn: God’s Word is Our Great Heritage (LBW #239, ELW #509, LSB #582)

September 27: 17^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 21)

Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32 (you are responsible for your own sins; turn from them and live!)

Psalm 25:1-10 (Lead me in your truth and teach me!)

Philippians 2:1-18 (Be of one heart and mind – the mind of Christ; act without grumbling;

 be his lights in this broken world, that Paul may boast in you!)

Matthew 21:23-32 (By what authority does Jesus act? Parable of two sons who act

contrary to their words; which are you like?)

****************

Opening Hymn: Herald, Sound the Note of Judgment (LBW #556, LSB #511)

OR (echoing Psalm) Lead Me, Guide Me (ELW #768, LSB #721)

Hymn of the Day: Forth in Thy Name, O Lord, I Go (LBW #505, LSB #854)

OR The Lord Now Sends Us Forth (ELW #538)

OR O Master, Let Me Walk with You (LBW #492, ELW #818)

Communion 1: Jesus Calls Us; O’er the Tumult (LBW #494, ELW #696)

Communion 2: O God, My Faithful God (LBW #504, LSB #696)

Closing Hymn: Strengthen for Service, Lord, the Hands (LBW #218, ELW #497)

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

October 4: 18^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 22)

Isaiah 5:1-7 (Love song about beloved vineyard turns to lament over its wild grapes)

Psalm 80:7-19 (Come to the aid of your vineyard, against those who trample it!)

Philippians 3:4b-14 (My richest gains I count but loss because of surpassing excellence

of knowing Christ)

Matthew 21:33-46 (Parable of the wicked tenants in master’s vineyard)

*****************

Opening Hymn: Judge Eternal, Throned in Splendor (LBW #418)

OR Fight the Good Fight (LBW #461) (NOTE: tune that can be substituted with any decent LM (8888) hymn tune. LSB #664 uses “Mendon,” much more singable. In LBW, Mendon is used for “Thee We Adore, Eternal Lord, #547)

OR As Saints of Old Their Firstfruits Brought (LBW #404) (aw heck. I hate when great hymns are set to bad or difficult tunes. Use “Forest Green,” the jaunty English folk melody used for “I Sing the Almighty Power of God.” That’s what is used in ELW #695!)

Hymn of the Day: There in God’s Garden (if you didn’t do this for Holy Cross Day, transferred, do it now.)

(WOV #668, ELW #342)

OR Wide Open Are Thy Hands (LBW #489)

OR We Sing the Praise of Him Who Died (easy tune, but if unfamiliar, use the

 Doxology “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow”) (LBW #344, LSB #429)

OR Fruitful Trees, the Spirit’s Sowing (LSB #691)

Communion 1: Son of God, Eternal Savior (LBW #364, ELW #655, LSB #842)

Communion 2:  When I Survey the Wondrous Cross (again, if you didn’t do Holy Cross, sing this today)

(LBW #482, LSB #425/6)

Closing Hymn: The Church’s One Foundation (LBW #369, ELW #654, LSB #644)

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

October 11: 19^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 23)

Note: even if your practice isn’t to have weekly communion, you might want to make an exception today! 😉

Isaiah 25:6-9 (On God’s holy mountain, a feast of fat things; death shall be destroyed)

Psalm 23 (You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies)

Philippians 4:4-13 (Rejoice in the Lord always; think on things excellent, honorable;

thanks for Philippians’ gift)

            (ELW, Philippians 4:1-9, Stand fast in the Lord, rejoice, think on these things)

Matthew 22:1-14 (The wedding feast…and its, er, substitute guest list)

********************

Opening Hymn: Arise, My Soul, Arise (LBW #516, ELW #827)

Hymn of the Day:  LBW #313, A Multitude Comes From the East and the West (LSB #510)

OR At the Lamb’s High Feast (LBW #210, ELW #362, LSB #633)

OR The Feast is Ready (ELW #531)

Communion 1: Come, Let Us Eat, For Now the Feast is Spread (LBW #214, ELW #491, LSB #626)

Communion 2: Soul Adorn Yourself with Gladness (LBW #224, ELW #488/9, LSB #636)

Closing Hymn: Thine the Amen, Thine the Praise (WOV #801, ELW #826, LSB #680)

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

October 18: 20^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 24) OR St. Luke, Evangelist

St. Luke Lessons and Hymns

Isaiah 35:5-8 (Gracious promise of return to Holy Land on God’s Highway)

Psalm 147:1-11 (God loves Jerusalem, cares for the poor, tends the land,

and cherishes those who trust his steadfast love)

2 Timothy 4:5-18 (Paul’s valedictory to Timothy, recounting his own trials,

and commending Luke as a faithful companion)

Luke 1:1-4; 24:44-53 (Why Luke wrote his Gospel. Also, risen Jesus opens disciples’ minds

 to understand scripture, instructs and blesses them, and ascends to heaven.)

OR Luke 10:1-9 (The mission of the seventy)

********************

Opening Hymn: All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name (LBW #328/9, ELW #634, LSB #549)

OR Come, All You People (ELW #819)

Hymn of the Day: Holy God, We Praise Your Name (LBW #535, ELW #414, LSB #940)

OR Sing Praise to God, the Highest Good (LBW #542, ELW #871, LSB #819)

Communion 1: LBW #102, On My Heart Imprint Your Image (LSB #422, ELW #811)

Communion 2: Take My Life, That I May Be (LBW #406, ELW #583, 685, LSB #783/4)

Closing Hymn: Stand Up, Stand Up For Jesus (LBW #389, LSB #660)

OR We Are All One in Mission (ELW #576)

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

20^th Sunday after Pentecost Lessons and Hymns

Isaiah 45:1-7 (God anoints Cyrus on behalf of his Chosen People)

Psalm 96: 1-13 (Declare God’s glory among the nations, whose gods are but worthless idols)

1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 (Paul commends Thessalonians for turning from idols to Christ)

Matthew 22:15-22 (Render to Caesar, and to God, what is due each)

********************

Opening Hymn: All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name (LBW #328/9, ELW #634, LSB #549)

OR Come, All You People (ELW #819)

Hymn of the Day: Holy God, We Praise Your Name (LBW #535, ELW #414, LSB #940)

OR Sing Praise to God, the Highest Good (LBW #542, ELW #871, LSB #819)

Communion 1: LBW #102, On My Heart Imprint Your Image (LSB #422, ELW #811)

Communion 2: Take My Life, That I May Be (LBW #406, ELW #583, 685, LSB #783/4)

Closing Hymn: Gracious God, You Send Great Blessings (LSB #782) (really nice hymn!)

OR God, Whose Giving Knows No Ending (LBW #408, ELW #678)

Note: if tune is unfamiliar, sing it to “Love Divine, All Loves Excelling”

October 25: Reformation Sunday

Revelation 14:6-7 (Angel with eternal Gospel: fear God, give glory, hour of judgment)

            (ELW, Jeremiah 31:31-34, A new heart, engraved with God’s Word)

Psalm 46 (A mighty fortress is our God!)

Romans 3:19-28 (All have sinned, fallen short of God’s glory; but his righteousness is grasped by faith, not works)

John 8:31-36 (If the Son makes you free, you are free indeed)

******************

Opening Hymn: Open Now Thy Gates of Beauty (LBW #250, ELW #533, LSB #901)

Hymn of Praise: All Glory Be to God on High (LBW #166, ELW #410, LSB #947)

Hymn of the Day: Thy Strong Word Did Cleave the Darkness (LBW #233, ELW #511, LSB #578)

Communion 1: Word of God, Come Down on Earth (WOV #716, ELW #510, LSB #545)

Communion 2:  Now Thank We All Our God (LBW #534, ELW #839/840, LSB #895)

Closing Hymn: A Mighty Fortress is Our God (LBW #228/9, ELW #504; note, #505 is a gender-neutral version; LSB #656/7)

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

November 1: All Saints’ Sunday

Revelation 7:9-17 (Behold a host, arrayed in white! Blessing and honor and glory and power

be unto God and the Lamb!)

Psalm 34:1-10, 22 (O taste and see how gracious the Lord is; look upon him and be radiant;

the Lord ransoms the lives of his servants)

1 John 3:1-3 (We are God’s children now; we shall be like Jesus, for we shall see him as he is)

Matthew 5:1-12 (The Beatitudes)

********************

Opening Hymn: For All the Saints

(LBW #174, ELW #422, note: it’s been edited to be less martial, LSB #677)

OR Blessing, Honor, Glory to the Lamb (ELW #433)

Hymn of Praise: Blessing and Honor and Glory and Power (LBW #525, ELW #854)

OR Alabare (WOV #791, LSB #799/800)

OR Cantad Al Senor (WOV #795, ELW #822)

Hymn of the Day: Behold a Host, Arrayed in White (LSB #676)

Who Is this Host, Arrayed in White (LBW #314)

Behold the Host Arrayed in White (ELW #425)

OR Blest are They (WOV #764, ELW #728)

Communion 1: Love Divine, All Loves Excelling (LBW #315, ELW #631, LSB #700)

Communion 2: Thee We Adore, O Hidden Savior, Thee (LBW #199, LSB #640)

Thee We Adore, O Savior, God Most True (ELW #476)

Closing Hymn: Rejoice, O Pilgrim Throng! (LBW #553, LSB #813)

Rejoice, Ye Pure in Heart (ELW #873/4)

November 8: 23^rd Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 27)

Amos 5:18-24 (Woe to those who desire the Day of the Lord! He despises your feasts

 and sacrifices; let justice, righteousness roll down like streams of water)

Psalm 70 (Let those who seek you find deliverance)

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 (Do not grieve as those without hope; Christ will come with trumpet)

Matthew 25:1-13 (Parable of the wise and foolish virgins)

***************

Opening Hymn: Rejoice, Rejoice, Believers (LBW #25, ELW #244, LSB #515)

Hymn of the Day: Wake, Awake, For Night is Flying

(LBW #31, ELW #436 [funky translation warning!], LSB #516)

Communion 1: Let Justice Roll Like Streams (WOV #763, ELW #717)

OR Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise (LBW #526, ELW #834, LSB #802)

Communion 2: My Lord, What a Morning (WOV #627, ELW #438, LSB #968)

Closing Hymn: My Hope is Built on Nothing Less (LBW #293/4, ELW #596/597, LSB #575/6)

OR Let Streams of Living Justice (great tune!) (ELW #710)

OR The Bridegroom Soon Will Call Us (LSB #514)

November 15: 24^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 28)

Zephaniah 1:7-16 (The Day of the Lord comes as darkness and judgment for the complacent)

Psalm 90:1-12 (O God, our help in ages past! Teach us to number our days

and apply our hearts to wisdom)

1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 (Be sober, watchful – the Lord will come like a thief in the night;

therefore act as children of the day)

Matthew 25:14-30 (The parable of the servants given talents)

***************

Opening Hymn: Lo! He Comes with Clouds Descending (LBW #27, ELW #435, LSB #336)

OR Christ is Surely Coming (LSB #509)

Hymn of the Day:  The Night Will Soon Be Ending (great words and tune!) (LSB #337)

OR Lord of Light, Your Name Outshining (LBW #405, ELW #688)

Communion 1: O God, Our Help in Ages Past (LBW #320, ELW #733, LSB #733)

Communion 2: I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light (WOV #649, ELW #815, LSB #411)

Closing Hymn: Through the Night of Doubt and Sorrow (LBW #355, ELW #327)

OR One Thing’s Needful; Lord, This Treasure (LSB #536, v. 1, 3-5)

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

November 22: Christ the King Sunday

Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 (God himself will be King and Shepherd to his people)

Psalm 95:1-7a (The Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods)

Ephesians 1:15-23 (Glorious inheritance given those who believe in Christ,

whom the Father has exalted high above all rulers and authorities)

Matthew 25:31-46 (Parable of the Last Judgment and the sheep/goat divide)

*******************

Opening Hymn: O God Beyond All Praising (WOV #797, ELW #880)

OR Lord, Enthroned in Heavenly Splendor (LBW #172, LSB #534, ELW #475)

Hymn of the Day: Lord of Glory, You Have Bought Us (LBW #424, ELW #707, LSB #851)

OR O Christ, What Can It Mean for Us (familiar tune) (ELW #431)

Communion 1: Jesu, Jesu, Fill Us with Your Love (WOV #765, ELW #708, LSB #980)

Communion 2:  Beautiful Savior (LBW #518, ELW #838, LSB #537)

Closing Hymn: Crown Him with Many Crowns (LBW #170, ELW #855, LSB #525,)

LCMC GATHERING – A MATTHEW 17 MOMENT

The LCMC (Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ) gathering was held on October 5.  It was inspiring as always.  Because of COVID, they had to limit the number of voting delegates, and there were no vendors, so I did not have my typical opportunity to reconnect with people and make new friends.  But I found watching the event online to be very uplifting and renewing.

I want to thank Mark Vander Tuig for his ten years of ministry and leadership as Service Coordinator.  He brought energy, passion, and commitment to the position.  I also want to assure Mike Bradley, a fellow Arizonan and new Service Coordinator, of my prayers. 

What I would like to do is to share with you the main points that Gemechis Buba made in his keynote address.  Dr. Buba is Assistant to the Bishop for Missions for the NALC (North American Lutheran Church).  His presentation was awesome, as always. 

He focused on the account of the transfiguration in Matthew 17.  He spoke of this chapter as a transition chapter.  From this chapter on, everything is changing in the life of Jesus.  In the same way, with COVID, everything is changing in the life of the church.  We are in a Matthew 17 moment.

In the previous chapter – in Matthew 16: 18 – Jesus says, “I will build my church, and the gates of hell will not prevail against it.”  Here Jesus mentions the church for the very first time, but in the account of the transfiguration we see the ten deadly mistakes of the church.  These mistakes include the following.

Wanting to maintain the status quo.  In verse 4 – after Jesus was transfigured and Moses and Elijah appeared – Peter said, “Lord, it is good for us to be here.”  How often does God have something better in mind for us, but we want to keep things the same?  We say, “Lord, it is good for us to be here.”

An excessive emphasis on buildings.  Again in verse 4, Peter said, “If you wish, I will make three dwellings here.”  It is interesting that Jesus did not respond to Peter’s offer.  With the pandemic, many churches are closed, but much ministry is going on and there is a multitude of gatherings in homes.  The glory and power of God are not contained within four walls. 

Speaking rather than listening.  Verse 5 says, “While he (Peter) was still speaking.”  Peter was still speaking when he should have been listening.  Peter was still speaking when the moment of transfiguration was happening.  Even during COVID, God is doing some incredible things, but sometimes we are speaking when we should be paying attention. 

Detaching ourselves from the overwhelming experience of the presence of God.  In verses 6 and 7 the disciples “fell to the ground and were overcome by fear, but Jesus came and touched them.”  When and how do we detach ourselves from the overwhelming touch of God?

Not focusing on Jesus.  Verse 8 says, “When they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus himself alone.”  Are we distracted, or are we Christ-centered and Christ-focused?

Focusing on the mountain top experience while neglecting the needs of people in the valley.  Verse 9 says, “As they were coming down the mountain.”  Peter had said, “It is good for us to be here.”  But Jesus said, “No, we need to go down into the valley.”  Too often we make the Sunday morning gathering, rather than our mission in the world, the most important thing.

Replacing the theology of the cross with the theology of glory.  In verse 9 Jesus ordered them, “Tell no one about the vision until after the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.”  Jesus now transitions from their most remarkable mountain top experience (glory) to talking about his suffering and death (the cross).  But how often would we rather remain with the glory?

Not walking and living in the hope of victory.  The church is the only institution that knows how the story ends.  Which is why our message is so important and so relevant.  Jesus had said, “Do not tell anyone until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.”  We must speak the whole Gospel message because Jesus has been raised from the dead.

Not knowing, and not being able to respond to, the needs of the world.  In verses 14-15 a man came to Jesus, pleading, “Lord, have mercy on my son.”  The disciples had not been able to help him.  They had not been able to cast out the demon because of their lack of faith.  There is much suffering – much demonization in the world.  But often we are not able to help because of our lack of faith and our lack of knowledge of the Word of God.

Not preaching the Gospel with simplicity and clarity.  Verses 22-23 tell us, “As they were gathering in Galilee, Jesus said to them, ‘The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into human hands, and they will kill him, and on the third day he will be raised.’  And they were greatly distressed.”  Here we see the three major parts of the Gospel message: the identity of Jesus as the Son of Man, the cross (“he will be betrayed and killed”), and the resurrection (“on the third day he will be raised”).  We need to preach the Gospel message with clarity, simplicity, power, and joy.  And not – like the disciples – because of COVID – be “greatly distressed.” 

* * * * * *

ELCA REMOVES ALL DOUBTS

If anyone still thinks that the ELCA is at all interested in even listening to – let alone considering – traditional views.  If anyone still believes that the ELCA has any intent to honor the commitments made at the 2009 Churchwide Assembly to also respect traditional views, they need to realize that the ELCA has removed all doubts.  It has no intention to do anything but totally dismiss and ignore those who disagree with the direction in which the ELCA has chosen to go.

In the June 2020 Letter from the Director I told about an article that I had written concerning Episode 1 of Season 5 of the Netflix series Queer Eye.  This episode featured an ELCA pastor by the name of Noah Hepler, who received help in accepting his sexual identity from a team of LGBTQIA+ persons, known as the Fab 5.  A link to my June 2020 Letter from the Director can be found here.  A link to my full article can be found here.

Subsequently I learned that Mr. John Potter, ELCA Content Editor, had written an article entitled, “How Noah Hepler found ‘reawakening’ in Queer Eye.”  His article was posted on the Living Lutheran website on June 22.  A link to his article can be found here.  I went to the website and saw where it was written, “We are a church that values and encourages diverse voices and lively dialogue in our faith and life.  Living Lutheran is an opportunity for church members to express individual perspectives, and does not necessarily reflect official positions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.”  Because of their statement that they value and encourage “diverse voices and lively dialogue” and want to give church members “an opportunity . . . to express individual perspectives,” I thought that they might be willing to also post a more traditional perspective on the same episode.  Therefore, I called and left a voice mail message for Mr. Potter.

In a very timely way I received an email from Mr. Potter, in which he wrote, “Thank you for reaching out.  We would be interested in reviewing a draft of your piece.”  He also mentioned that they generally ask that articles be under six hundred words in length.

I worked very hard to reduce my article to the required length.  The next day I sent him my shortened article, a copy of which can be found here.  He wrote back, “Thank you! . . . . We will review and be in touch shortly.”  Two and a half weeks later I heard back.  He said, “I apologize; I’ve learned that we have a policy of not publishing unsolicited review submissions we haven’t commissioned.  Sorry for not having initially replied with that position.”

A link to my response to him can be found here.  As I knew would happen, and as has consistently happened whenever I have challenged the ELCA to abide by, honor, and live up to its own promises and commitments, I have heard nothing.

In my letter to Mr. Potter I made several statements and asked several questions, none of which were responded to and/or answered.

First, in response to his statement, “We have a policy of not publishing unsolicited review submissions we haven’t commissioned,” I said that I felt that my article was “solicited” because when I asked him about it he told me to send it to him.  I also asked about his use of the word “commissioned.”  I said that I certainly was not asking for any payment for my article.  I merely thought that Living Lutheran should be willing to publish another view of the Queer Eye episode.

Second, I shared that his reference to Living Lutheran policy raised four questions in my mind –

If so, could I have a copy? 
When was this policy developed? 
Is it consistently followed?

Third, I reminded him of the fact that the 2009 human sexuality social statement described four positions, each of which would have a place within the ELCA.  All four of those positions are more “conservative and traditional” than the full LGBTQIA+ agenda, which the ELCA now embraces.

I mentioned that at the bottom of his article, “How Noah Hepler found ‘reawakening’ in Queer Eye,” there are postings for a number of other articles, each promoting the LGBTQIA+ agenda and lifestyle.  I clicked on several of the links and found that each of those articles also ended with postings for a number of other articles, each promoting the LGBTQIA+ agenda and lifestyle.  So I asked him the following questions –

Were each one of these articles solicited and commissioned?

Has the Living Lutheran also posted a comparable number of – or even any – articles promoting traditional views? 

If not, why not, since the 2009 ELCA Churchwide Assembly stated that there would be a place for all four views which were described in the human sexuality social statement?

Fourth, I reminded him of how one of the RESOLVED sections in the 2009 ministry policies states, “RESOLVED, that the Evangelical Lutheran Church in American make provision in its policies to recognize the conviction of members who believe that this church should not call or roster people in a publicly accountable, lifelong, monogamous, same gender relationship.” 

In light of that RESOLVED, I asked – 

What has Living Lutheran done – if anything – since 2009 to “recognize the conviction” and honor and support the position of those who hold to traditional views?

Fifth, I reminded him of the words which Living Lutheran uses to describe its own work –

“We are a church that values and encourages diverse voices and lively dialogue in our faith and life.  Living Lutheran is an opportunity for church members to express individual perspectives, and does not necessarily reflect official positions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.”

In light of those words I asked –

How can Living Lutheran claim to be valuing and encouraging “diverse voices and lively dialogue” and claim to be giving church members an opportunity to express individual perspectives if it will only publish material which is solicited and commissioned?

How can Living Lutheran claim to be valuing and encouraging “diverse voices and lively dialogue” if it only publishes articles which promote and advance the full LGBTQIA+ agenda and lifestyle and it does not give any space and time (let alone equal space and time) to any of the four positions which were described in the 2009 human sexuality social statement, including the two more traditional views?

I concluded my letter by asking him if he could help me understand how Living Lutheran fulfills its mission in a way which is consistent with its own stated purpose and in line with the social statement and ministry policies approved by the 2009 ELCA Churchwide Assembly.

I have not received a response.  I did not expect to receive a response because ignoring, marginalizing, and dismissing is the way that the ELCA consistently deals with any view other than the preferred, official view.  The ELCA consistently ignores, marginalizes, and dismisses anyone who seeks to challenge the ELCA to act in a more honorable and honest way.  The ELCA has removed all doubts.  It has absolutely no interest in any viewpoints, values, and perspectives other than its own.

If it is already this difficult to get the ELCA to respect what they committed themselves to in 2009, when there might still be a few church leaders left who were a part of the 2009 decisions, just think of how much more difficult it is going to be when there will be no one left who was present at the 2009 Churchwide Assembly.  It reminds me of the verse near the beginning of Exodus, which says that “a new king arose over Egypt, who did not know Joseph” (Exodus 1: 8).

Seeking to be found faithful,
Dennis D. Nelson
Executive Director of Lutheran CORE
dennisdnelsonaz@yahoo.com 

“Now we pray to God that you do no wrong; not that we ourselves may appear approved, but that you may do what is right, even though we may appear unapproved.  For we can do nothing against the truth, but only for the truth” (2 Corinthians 13:7-8).

The direction of the heart will determine the footsteps you take.  This is not to say you won’t sin.  In one sense, that does not matter.  If your heart is under the management of Christ then He will lead you to live life in a different way than you would have if you had remained under your own management.  Come then and live into the life to which you have been called and dwell richly in the Lord.

Lord, You have given me a new heart that knows You must lead the way.  Amidst the trials and tribulations of this life, guide me, Lord, that I may dwell with You as You dwell with me.  Help me to understanding more fully the truth You have revealed, and live not seeking after this world’s way of doing things, but in accordance with Your Word and the Father’s will.

Lord Jesus, You know all that I need.  You have promised to dwell with me and invite me to dwell with You.  You also know where I am hindered and do not heed all that You have commanded.  Guide me, Lord, that I may grow in obedience and actually live out a disciplined life as You teach me how to live.  Abide with me, Lord, that from You I may learn how to live life. Amen.

“Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves! Or do you not recognize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you – unless indeed you fail the test?  But I trust that you will realize that we ourselves do not fail the test” (2 Corinthians 13:5-6).

Such a simple statement that speaks to the reality of how so many do not take seriously what the Lord is doing.  This is not about a tacit, “Well, I suppose so.”  The Lord of creation has come and dwells within.  Is He the Lord of your life?  Does He move and shape you every day?  Is He the One who is leading, or are you still thinking that you are the One who is in charge?

Lord, this is serious business and I often act as though I am in charge of all things.  Lead me, O Lord, away from such thoughts and actions that I would live into the life You have given me by grace through faith.  Guide me in Your goodness to take and pass the test of trusting You above all things.  Lead me, Lord, in the way You know I need to go and then help me to walk following You.

Lord Jesus, You have come that we might have life and have it abundantly.  You are in me and You have given me Your promises.  Help me to not kick You out, or ignore You.  Lead me to begin, end, and all the time in between, live according to Your Word.  Dwell richly in me Lord and cause my heart to long for You all the days of this life as You prepare me for the life to come.  Amen.

The board of Lutheran CORE recognizes Empowered Laity as one discipling resource that Lutheran congregations may wish to try. It has the potential of helping everyone realize their potential to teach, preach, and heal.

Discipling will take place in small huddles via Zoom. A huddle is an ongoing coaching vehicle, meaning the coach guides where the players need to grow. The Empowered Laity coaches are “creating a reproducible discipling culture based on a model that has worked in other more secular Western Culture contexts as well as here in the US.”

The Empowered Laity organization is offering two lengthy huddles in the fall of 2020. In a nutshell: 

• The Empowered Laity huddle will explore the dynamics of ordained/laity and what it means for everyone to engage the ministry Jesus promised in John 14:12.  That is a massive paradigm shift for most congregations as it puts mission into the hands of everyone where they interface with the world, not simply the church as an institution and its mission.
• The Painting with Words huddle teaches “how to convey the Gospel in memes.”

The Empowered Laity huddle will start with an analysis of Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) so that the coach begins to understand what each disciple needs. The coaches may also lean into conflict management, public and private communication, leading transitions, personal discipleship and reproduction, etc. 

One of the first things explored in the Empowered Laity huddle is the primary discipleship question, “Do I have a life worth imitating?”  The coaches will use a tool called the Character/Competency grid.  From that the coaches will teach the Kairos Circle, learning to hear what God is saying and discerning what to do about it. “Hearing God” is a difficult step as many want to jump right into action.  The coaches may also spend time exploring one’s spiritual gifts as Apostles hear differently than Teachers or Prophets, Pastors, Evangelists, etc.

The second huddle, called Painting with Words, teaches your team how to create a Meme (symbol and statement) that accurately represents a congregation’s gifts as well as speaks contextually into their surrounding community in ways that can be received – missionally.  This huddle will provide enough challenge and information to get them started, but to really explore it will take at least a year and a follow-on huddle where coaches and students would explore things like stance and the hero’s journey as models of story telling.

These huddles were developed and utilized by Pastor Brian Hughes and Pastor Karen Heist at St. John Lutheran Church, Columbia, Maryland.  Both have received extensive training in these models, and have implemented them at St. John over a 6-10 year period.

https://youtu.be/izhnAQhC-C0

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TG0hJlElXt4&feature=youtu.be

Click here for other resources that Lutheran CORE recommends or visit our Seminarians page.

“For indeed He was crucified because of weakness, yet He lives because of the power of God. For we also are weak in Him, yet we will live with Him because of the power of God directed toward you” (2 Corinthians 13:4).

Humanity is weak.  We may think we’re strong and many act as if they were, but we were created to be dependent.  We are dependent upon the power of God and His provision.  Live then in the power of God directed to you through the One who was resurrected from the dead.  Be guided by the truth of the eternal life He gives for the sake of all.  In Him is light, life, and true peace.

Lord, help me to see beyond the troubles of this world.  Guide me in Your goodness to know that in You is all hope.  Lead me into the future You have in mind knowing that in You alone do we have our being. Guide me, Lord, that I may trust in Your power alone and be led by You alone for Your purpose alone.  Help me through all of the weakness I have to become strong in You.

Lord Jesus, You have come that we may have new life.  You were resurrected that we may have the resurrection.  You are the model to which we may be conformed.  Guide me, Lord, in the way of life that I may now and always live according to Your purposes.  Help me through those obstacles that get in the way that in my weakness, Your strength may always prevail in resurrecting me to new life.  Amen.

“I have previously said when present the second time, and though now absent I say in advance to those who have sinned in the past and to all the rest as well, that if I come again I will not spare anyone, since you are seeking for proof of the Christ who speaks in me, and who is not weak toward you, but mighty in you” (2 Corinthians 13:2-3)

There are games that people play.  The devil has those who will harm the fellowship.  It is not that we are to police and seek to eradicate, but to know that repentance is needed in order to keep the wicked one at bay.  Yes, those who practice wickedness must be confronted lest they rule and thereby overwhelm the cause of Christ in that place.  This is eternal business which is why we are to take it most seriously.

Lord, I often treat church things as a part of my voluntary life and those things for which I want to volunteer as my purpose for life.  Help me to realize that to follow You is to not take my hand from the plow, but instead to realize that with all earnestness I should seek after You all the days of my life knowing that by grace and through faith I am being prepared to be with You forever.

Lord Jesus, You did not die on the cross just to polish us up a bit and send us on our way.  In this world of sin, You leave us here for awhile that we might undergo all that is needed in order for You to perfect in us that which You are perfecting.  Help me submit to You, Lord and Savior, that I would know that all that happens in this life is with purpose that has eternal consequences.  Amen.

“This is the third time I am coming to you. Every fact is to be confirmed by the testimony of two or three witnesses” (2 Corinthians 13:1)

If only the world would practice these simple things. A truthful witness that is corroborated would establish things that happened.  Alas, we would rather be tantalized and go off believing fantasy.  How sad that the world shows its rebellion by adopting what is wrong and then pretending it is right.  For this reason God has come into our world that those who would be rescued might be.

Lord, help me first to see things as they are.  Then, help me to not get caught up in the nonsense of this world and do things the way the world does them.  Guide me, O Lord, in the right way of thinking and acting.  Let me hear and discern whether a testimony is reasonable or just another one of the devil’s fables to stir up the crowds.  Lead me, Lord, to be one who walks in the way of truth.

Come Holy Spirit and bring discernment to my heart.  You know the things that are going on in my heart and You know all that is needed in me for me to be able to see things as they are and do things as the ought to be done.  Keep me on the narrow way that I would learn to act like Jesus.  Grant me a new heart that longs after purity, honesty, and true justice.  Guide me, Lord, in the way of salvation.  Amen.

“For I am afraid that perhaps when I come I may find you to be not what I wish and may be found by you to be not what you wish; that perhaps there will be strife, jealousy, angry tempers, disputes, slanders, gossip, arrogance, disturbances; I am afraid that when I come again my God may humiliate me before you, and I may mourn over many of those who have sinned in the past and not repented of the impurity, immorality and sensuality which they have practiced” (2 Corinthians 12:20-21).

Who are you now and what were you before the Lord awakened you to His presence?  Do you live life with expectations and demands, or do you know that the Lord is Lord of all.  There is that in-between place where the battle of faith takes place.  Will you ultimately surrender to the Lord, or will you continue to insist that it be your will that is done.  God grant that you come into His will.

Lord, a life of faith in this age is not easy.  I want what I want and I want it as I want it.  Lead me, O Lord, in the way of truth that I may surrender to the truth that You are Lord of all.  Remove from me those sinful things that get in the way that I may now and always live according to what is right and pleasing in Your sight.  Save me, Lord, from myself and free me to be what You are making of me.

Lord Jesus, You have accomplished what needs to be done that we might be free to follow You.  Help me to not turn back, but see instead that in and through You is all hope and a future.  Guide me, O Lord, in the way of truth that I may now and always walk in Your footsteps and live into the life to which You call me.  Through all things, help me keep my eyes upon You.  Amen.