Category: Church

How is your Easter joy? A week later and the eggs may be gone, the ham consumed and the baskets put away for another year. But the real “importance” of the day will never fade. The real “importance” of the day cannot be over-emphasized. The real “importance” of the day is for you: As Paul writes, “For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures…” (I Cor. 15:3-4).  All of this – for YOU!

Joplin, Mo. mission – Heavenly Father, thank you for the believers in and around Joplin, Missouri, who have the deep desire to spread your gospel in that town. The core group from nearby churches has dedicated their services, resources, and prayers to this important effort. Help the leaders and members to remain focused and energized despite any obstacles that may arise. Bless their evangelism efforts as they create and build relationships through worship services, events, programs, and personal contacts. Your Word does not return to you empty. We trust this promise as we keep your people in Joplin, Missouri, in our prayers through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

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And they worshipped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy … Luke 24:52

Unfortunately, it’s a typical Sunday morning: spilt cereal, toothpaste-spitting contests, arguments in the car. Attempting to concentrate on the service surrounded by squirmy children causes you to wonder, “Is this really worth it?”

Even for those without young children, worries and distractions interfere with our intent to worship. God understands us and forgives us when we are inattentive. He truly accepts us just as we are. Before worship begins, we can ask our Father for help in opening our hearts and minds to His presence. The Holy Spirit will enable us to hear and absorb the Word, as well as renew us to serve Him.

Our Lord loves it when we come to His house, and He loves when we bring our children. The visit may not always be perfect, but He welcomes us in love and is delighted to fill our hearts with His forgiveness and encouragement. We can return home refreshed and with great joy!

Ministering to Millennials – Lord Jesus, people of every age and generation are precious in your sight. We humbly ask your blessing on the efforts of those who are working to develop and promote the “Ministering to Millennials” resources for WELS Congregational Services. Make these materials a blessing to many congregations as they strive to retain and gain members from this largest generation in America. Open the eyes of believing millennials to see the benefits and blessings of being connected regularly to a local family of believers. Bless this program in your saving name. Amen.

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