our redeemer lutheran church - clover...

Monthly Newsletter, Volume 51

December 2012

OUR REDEEMER LUTHERAN CHURCH

“The Record”

December Sunday Worship Themes

Dec 2nd “Managing A Flood of Love” Scripture Lessons: Jeremiah 33: 14—16 1 Thessalonians 3: 9—13 Luke 21: 25—36 8:00A & 10:30A Traditional Hymnal Liturgy Holy Communion Received at the Communion Rail Dec 9th “Live & Wait for the Day of Jesus” Scripture Lessons: Malachi 3: 1—7 Philippians 1: 2—11 Luke 3: 1—14 8:00A Blended Service 10:30A Contemporary Service Dec 16th “The Stress of the Season” Scripture Lessons: Zephaniah 3: 14—20 Philippians 4: 4—9 Luke 7: 18—28 8:00A Blended Service 10:30A Contemporary Service Holy Communion received via continuous line at both services Dec 23rd “Do You See What I See? With You or Without You” Scripture Lessons: Micah 5: 2—5a Hebrews 10: 5—10 Luke 1: 39—45 8:00A & 10:30A Dec 23rd 4:30P “Make Way! The Savior Comes!” Children’s Christmas Worship Service Dec 24th 5:30P Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship Dec 25th 9:30A Christmas Day Worship Holy Communion received at the communion rail Dec 30th 8:00A & 10:30A “A Heart That Sees” Scripture Lessons: Isaiah 61: 10—62:3 Ephesians 1: 3—6, 15—23 Luke 2: 22—40 Holy Communion received at the communion rail Dec 31st 5:30P “Will Tomorrow Be Different” Scripture Lessons: 2 Corinthians 5: 14—21 Luke 12: 35—40 Holy Communion received at the communion rail In this service, we pause to remember people who have been “called HOME” to heaven and we pray for their grieving families. The names will be read and a candle lit in remembrance.

Advent is Here! Wednesday Advent services will be on Dec 5th, 12th, & 19th at 7:30 PM. The theme for these services will be “Do You See What I See?” The 4 part series will conclude on Sunday, December 23rd at the regular morning worship services. The Wednesday Dollar

Dinners will be replaced by the fund raising dinners noted. Dec 5th Advent Fund Raising Meal Baked potato bar served by CCC Worship: Do You See What I See? At the Mountain of the Lord Text: Isaiah 2: 1—5 Dec 12th Advent Fund Raising Meal Italian Chicken served by the Youth Worship: Do You See What I See? A Branch Is Growing Text: Isaiah 11: 1—10 Dec 19th Advent Fund Raising Meal Elders will serve a meal in support of Minot Flood Relief Worship: Do You See What I See? Coming Here & Now Text: Isaiah 35: 1—10 Dec 23rd Do You See What I See? With You or Without You Text: Isaiah 7: 10—17

DECEMBER CALENDAR OF EVENTS OUR REDEEMER LUTHERAN CHURCH MOORHEAD

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

1 9:00A Church Decorating Party

2 8:00A Worship/Holy Comm 9:15A Sunday School/ Bible Study/Spec Ed 10:30A Worship/Holy Comm 11:45A College Lunch 5:00 P Staff Christmas Party

3 5:30P Faithfully Fit 6:30P Dartball

4 9:30A Senior Bible Study 1:00P Staff Meeting 6:30P Prayer Warriors 6:30P The Story @ Riverpointe

5 7:00A Today’s Light 5:30P Advent Dinner 6:00P Cross Training/ Confirmation 6:15P Choir Rehearsal The Story 7:30P Advent Worship 8:30P Sr High Bible Study

6 6:30A Men’s Bible Breakfast 11:00A Young In Spirit @ Fry’n Pan 6:30P Good News class 7:00P Women’s Small Group

7 Pastors’ Day Off 9:30P Sr High Cosmic Bowling

8 9:00A Children’s Christmas Worship Rehearsal (gr 3 – 8) 11:30 A Women’s Fellowship @ Speak Easy

9 8:00A Worship 9:15A Sunday School/ Bible Study/Spec Ed Blood Pressure checks 10:30A Worship 11:45A Voters’ Meeting & Congregational Potluck

10 5:30P Faithfully Fit 7:00P Board Meetings – Education, Trustees, Servant Ministry

11 9:30A Senior Bible Study 1:00P Staff Meeting 6:30P Prayer Warriors 6:30P The Story @ Riverpointe

12 7:00A Today’s Light 5:30p Advent Dinner 6:00P CrossTraining/ Confirmation 6:15P Choir Rehearsal The Story 7:30P Advent Worship 8:30P Sr. High Bible Study

13 6:30A Men’s Bible Breakfast 9:00A Pastor’s Circuit Meeting @ Fergus Falls 6:30P Good News class

14 Pastors’ Day Off

15 9:00A Children’s Christmas Worship Rehearsal (all)

16 8:00A Worship/Holy Comm 9:15A Sunday School/ Bible Study/Spec Ed 10:30A Worship/Holy Comm

17 5:30P Faithfully Fit 6:30P CCC Board Meeting

18 9:30A Senior Bible Study 1:00P Staff Meeting 6:30P Prayer Warriors 3:00P Riverpointe Communion Service

19 7:00A Today’s Light 2:30P Eventide Communion Service 5:30P Advent Dinner 6:00P Christmas Caroling 7:30P Advent Worship 8:30P Sr. High Bible Study

20 6:30A Men’s Bible Breakfast 6:30P CCC Preschool Program 6:30P Good News class 7:00P Women’s Small Group

21 Pastors’ Day Off 22 9:00A Children’s Christmas Worship Rehearsal (all)

23 8:00A Worship 9:15A Sunday School/ Bible Study/Spec Ed 10:30A Worship 4:30P Children’s Christmas Worship

24 Christmas Eve CCC Closed 5:30P Candlelight Worship

25 Christmas Day CCC & Church Office Closed 9:30A Worship with Holy Communion

26 NO WEDNESDAY SERVICE

27 6:30A Men’s Bible Breakfast

28 Pastors’ Day Off

29

30 8:00A Worship/Holy Comm 9:15A Bible Study 10:30A Worship/Holy Comm

31 5:30P New Year’s Eve Worship with Holy Communion

1 New Year’s Day CCC & Church Office closed

2 7:00P Today’s Light 7:30P Worship

3 6:30A Men’s Bible Breakfast 1:00P Staff Meeting 6:30P Good News Class

4 Pastors’ Day Off 5

SCHEDULE

DEC 2nd 8:00A Darlene Larson (CP), Jane Arendes, Jan Kandt 10:30A Darlene Ellefson, Lenore Becker (CP), Giny A-Mulari DEC 9th 8:00A Ed & Clarene Butenhoff, Paul Beltz (CP) 10:30A Olga Gregor, Bill & Lora Thielke DEC 16th 8:00A Lois Birkeland (CP), Biran & Joan Muehler 10:30A Bill & Lori Lymburner (CP), Richie & Laura Noreen DEC 23rd 8:00A Josh Mork, Hannah Mork, Matt & Clarissa Dolven 10:30A Barbara Hintzen (CP), Tracy Nelson, Don & Vi Sannes DEC 24th 5:30P Jane Arendes, Harold & Barb Kaste (CP) DEC 25th 9:30A Wayne & Betty Settergren (CP) DEC 30th 8:00A Glenn & Carole Borchers (CP),

Norm & Marion Eidenschink 10:30A Ken & Gwen Budd (CP), Mike & Val Cossette DEC 31st 5:30P Del & Darlene Tysdal

SCHEDULE

DEC 2nd 8:00A Milford Kandt 10:30A Busses DEC 5th 7:30P Busses DEC 9th 8:00A Millers 10:30A Tysdals DEC 12th 7:30P Gary Euren DEC 16th 8:00A Nundahls 10:30A Moens DEC 19th 7:30P Moens DEC 23rd 8:00A Muehlers 10:30A Gary Euren

4:30P Millers (Children’s Worship Service) DEC 24th 5:30P Milford Kandt DEC 25th 9:30A Muehler’s DEC 30th 8:00A Milford Kandt 10:30A Burnses DEC 31st 5:30P Nundahl’s

Emily’s Expressway to the Word Director of Christian Education & Youth

Children’s Christmas Worship Sunday, December 23 - 4:30pm

9am - 11am

Sat, Dec. 8: 3rd-8th gr. ONLY Sat, Dec. 15: 3yr olds - 8th gr. Sat, Dec 22: 3 yr olds - 8th gr.

Join us for refreshments following the service in the Dining Hall. Families involved,

please bring the following items based on your child’s last name.

A-C: 1 box crackers D-H: 2 dozen cookies I-N: Sliced Cheese O-Z: Bag of washed grapes

“Make Way the Savior Comes”

Rehearsals:

After Party:

Our Redeemer offers devotional materials for chil-

dren of all ages. The two main devotions we offer

are “Happy Times” for ages 3-6 and “My Devotions”

for grades 2-8. Every family that has a child in one

of these age groups receives one copy of the

devotion book. Look for these items in your church

mailbox each month. Extra copies are in the

resource rack in the upper hallway by the drinking

fountains.

My Devotions is an excellent resource

that points children to the Word through

stories and situations to which they can

relate. Each devotion page includes a

Scripture reading, a true-to-life story, and

a short prayer. It's ideal for personal,

family, or classroom devotions. Distribute copies in

class or mail directly to children's homes. Delivered

quarterly

Happy Times

Bible-based stories, colorful activity

pages, and special projects are the

mainstays of this monthly magazine

targeted for 3- to 6-year-olds. A

"Grown-ups Page" offers helpful and fun ideas for

parents to encourage family time and Bible learn-

ing.

Devotions in my Mailbox!?

Sr. High COSMIC Bowling

Friday Night December 7th 9:30pm - Midnight

$9/person Invite your friends! Sunset Lanes - Moorhead

THE RECORD DECEMBER 2012 VOLUME 51

God has moved among the family of God at Our Redeemer to produce (as of this writing) $216,500.00 in gifts and commitments for the “GLORY TO GOD” campaign. Our Voter’s Assembly set a goal of $275,000.00, which we obviously at this time have not attained, so what does this mean? It means several things:

1. We praise, laud & Glorify our God (as we did at our Thanksgiving Services) for the

blessing of gifts which have been received & committed! God’s people at ORLC are awesome and unselfish in their giving, which is reflected in the 10% off the top of this income which we are giving to “Make A World For Christ”. This is very Scriptural for individuals to do with their income AND for congregations to do with the income (offerings & gifts) they receive. It also takes the Gospel message beyond our building into a world that desperately needs to know about Jesus in India, Germany, Africa, and at Lutheran Island Camp. The sacrificial giving (above & beyond regular giving) of our members gives evidence of our people’s Love for the Lord and their commitment to maintain and improve the “House of Worship” God has given us to care for.

2. As we enter 2013 the work will begin in making plans to use these gifts of God, “tweaking” our original plans to fit within the boundaries of the money committed. This means (as of this writing) we will have about $110,000.00 for the kitchen and about $90,000.00 for the organ. The difference is based on the pre-campaign money set aside for these projects.

3. Some may not have had an opportunity to talk about the campaign so as they pray and discuss it, some gifts and commitments may still be given to the “Glory To God” which will enable us to expand our support of God’s Kingdom both at ORLC and in the world.

4. Our Voter’s prayerfully and thoughtfully set a goal of $275,000.00 which we knew was ambitious and which we knew would take the participation of a majority of our members to achieve. We also know some members are not at a financial place to participate and God understands that. Others prayerfully sought God’s guidance and were led to a place of peace to not participate.

Whatever the case may be, we are richly blessed to be at this place! Now pray for God’s blessing, wisdom, discernment, and guidance as congregation leaders put in place the plans to move forward. When we began this process, my prayer was and continues to be that this “Glory To God” campaign would not be divisive among us (that’s Satan’s goal) but that it would strengthen and unify us as a church seeking to carry out the will of God in this place. Please regularly join me in these prayer thoughts!

Blessings to you, my Dear Brothers & Sisters in Christ! Pastor Bruce Noennig

From the Pastor’s Desk


…from Pastor Tom Park

“CHRIST IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON.”

While I was in college, I found a little button that said, “CHRIST IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON.” Until that moment, I did not notice and realize that I took Christmas as just another tradition and a day off from school. I did not really take some time to reflect on the real meaning of Christmas. We tend to get into this routine almost like we are on autopilot, not thinking about anything. We see this in different stores where we shop. What happens right after October 31? All the Halloween decorations come down and they are replaced with Thanksgiving memorabilia. Then what happens? As soon as people are done celebrating the Thanksgiving meal and enjoying turkey leftovers, the stores start playing Christmas songs and decorate themselves with candy canes and Santa. It is so easy to look at Christmas as just another break from school or work or for businesses to treat it as the time to make some profit—to make the bank account black. Why do we celebrate Christmas? Why do we wish and greet others with “Merry Christmas”? Luke 2 talks about the birth of Jesus, a moment in history that changed everything. The Creator of the heavens and the earth became a human being to save the world from sin, death, and hell. Jesus was born as an innocent baby in Bethlehem for us. The angels were very clear about their Gospel message, “’11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.’”(Luke 2:11-12). “CHRIST IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON.” The button was right. There is something special about Christmas. We celebrate it because God loves us so much that He sent His Son to be with us and to rescue us from our impending doom. Through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, we are now God’s forgiven children--dear sons and daughters of our King. We are now celebrating the beginning of God’s act of celebration. In this Christmas season, may we strive to look at the real reason for the season. “CHRIST IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON.” He is the reason why we are celebrating Christmas. I wish you Merry Christmas in the name of Jesus our Savior. Rejoicing and celebrating along with you the birth of our Savior, Pastor Tom Park


PASTORAL ACTS Baptisms: 11/18 John Scott Oliver Parents: Ross & Nikki (Breitbach) Oliver Godparents: Ryan & Rhonda Breitbach

MEMBERSHIP CONTACT CHANGES Edna Kalsow Nic Nundahl 1333 7th St S #101 931 10th Ave W #17 Moorhead, MN 56560 West Fargo, ND 58078 Erick, Lisa, & McKinley Esping 4123 Orchard Hill Dr Cedar Falls, IA 50613 Barbara Hintzen Phone # 701-200-4599 Email Update: Darlene Ellefson [email protected]

Young In Spirit

Thursday, December 6th, 11:00 A.M. Fry’n Pan Restaurant, Hwy 10, Moorhead

Bring a white

Elephant gift

wrapped or in a

bag for a fun

exchange

Auction Update Save the date – March 23, 2013 at Ramada Plaza Suites, Fargo. Volunteers are needed for the donations team, finance team, facilities team, and baskets team. Contact Principal Jean Syverson if you wish to offer your time, make a monetary donation, or donate new or antique items. CHRISTMAS MUSICAL The students of Grace Lutheran School will present “The Case of the Maltese Manger” on December 13th & 14th at 7:00 PM. Join them for this Christmas musical written and directed by Grace’s own Mr. Jay Schaefer. This show is in the style of a 1940‘s radio drama with musical styles ranging from vaudeville to big band swing. If you don’t want to come out at night, you’re welcome to attend the 1:30 dress rehearsal on Thursday, December 13th. Hope to see you there!

Get those chili recipes out….Chili Cook-Off in January! As a fundraiser for the Homelessness Community Shelter Project, there will be a community Chili Cook-Off February 8th. Our Redeemer will have a “in-house” cook-off and the winner will go to the community cook-off. All proceeds go to help with the cost of the sheltering project during the winter months of December through March. A Sign-up sheet is located on the Ministry Action Board for those interested in participating in the Our Redeemer Cook –Off which will be held January 13, 2013 following the 10:30AM Worship Service. Perfect those recipes and be the Our Redeemer representative at the community event in February!!

Deb Fankhanel is hosting a holiday party at the Community Room of Osgood Place Apartments, 5050 40th Ave S, Fargo. Visiting, playing games and good food will be shared Sunday, December 9th from 3:00 – 8:00 PM with a potluck supper at 6:00 PM. Please bring games, snacks, your own beverages & a side dish for the potluck. Paper goods, Christmas treats and a main dish will be provided. RSVP to Deb @ 701-552-1721 or email to [email protected].

mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]


Greetings from the Children’s Center Christmas is just around the corner, and winter weather is here please slow down and be safe this holiday season. Advent Supper: On December 5th ORCCC will be hosting a baked potato bar. Show up for food and fellowship and support the children’s center. Christmas Program: On December 20th at 6:30 ORCCC will be having its annual Christmas Program. Please join us for an evening of singing and fun. Cookies and lemonade will be served after the program. Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, & New Year’s Day: ORCCC will be closed December 24th & 25th for the Christmas Holiday. We will also be closed January 1st for New Year’s Day. Scratch Paper: Thank you to everyone who has brought us scratch paper the kids love doing art and your extra paper is being put to good use. We will take as much as you can bring. Campbell’s Labels: We are still saving Campbell’s labels. We get points for all labels for education. We collect these points until we have enough to purchase items for the center. Please ask friends and relatives to help us out as well. Some of the products that qualify are:

Campbell’s Prego Goldfish crackers Swanson V8

Cash Wise Labels For LEARNING: We are also saving Cash Wise Labels for Learning points. These are printed out with your purchase receipt. ORCCC can collect them and turn them in to get a percentage back in money we can put towards our classroom supplies. A collection envelope can be found on the bulletin board next to the ORCCC sign in desk. Thank you for your continued support. Roger and the CCC Staff

Thank you to all who contributed financially and prayed for us on our Nicaragua Mission Trip in November. It was another great experience and we are thankful to all. We will share our story of Nicaragua on Sunday, December 16th during the Bible study hour. Glenn & Carole Borchers

Sunday, December 9th

Congregational Pot Luck Dinner

Free will offering for our Good Samaritan Fund

Approval of 2013 budget

Proposed Wedding Policy

Election of Officers, Board & Committee members

Synod Nomination for 2013 LCMS Convention

The Giving Tree at Our Redeemer this year will focus on the families of our church, CCC, & others you know in need. This giving will be done anonymously so that neither the giver or the receiver knows where the gift goes to or comes from. Call or email the church office with requests for clothing, (with size & gender), inexpensive toys, or requests for grocery gift cards. Obviously a few people in the office will know how the gifts are distributed but will keep it confidential. PLEASE DO THIS BY FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7th so the tree can be ready for Sunday, December 9th. Members can pick up tags from the tree and return the gifts with the matching tag by December 19th. Thank you for your loving involvement.

As you read this, please respond IMMEDIATELY if you know of someone who could benefit from having items for themselves or for their children at Christmas.

The 7:30 PM Wednesday Worship, in January

until Lent begins on February 13th, will be held in the

Fellowship Center. The reason being it is warmer and cozier

for the size of our group during this time.


If you would like to be a part of this ministry, send your e-mail address to [email protected]. Personal needs of members may be included. This ministry is separate from the Telephone Prayer Chain.

Women’s Christmas Luncheon

Saturday, December 8th, 11:30 AM Speak Easy Restaurant 1001 30th Ave S, Moorhead

OUR REDEEMER CHRISTMAS CAROLING

Wednesday, December 19th We will meet at the church at 6:00 PM. If you know of someone (or yourself) who would like the carolers to come to your home or apartment, please call the church office by December 18th.

DECEMBER Co-Chairpersons: Vivian Hartman Matt & Jane Wychor Everyone Ken & Gwen Budd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (K)218-443-1993 or . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (G) 218-200-1944 Mike & Val Cossette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 789-7315 Randy & Kara Ellefson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218-483-1412 Terry & Kari Erickson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 236-5806 Phil Felde . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 287-5476 Brittany Frueh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 701-793-7998 Elaine Gaslin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .701-318-0933 Nichole (Troy) Gilbertson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 979-9502 Kendall & Becky Goltz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218-861-6362 Vivian Hartman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 236-1985 Jerome Hasbargen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 701-367-8186 Chad & Patti Lofton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218-790-0501 David Seibel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 233-2691 Jim & Marilyn Tinjum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 233-6564 Patty Welsh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218-303-0332 Carrie Wuollett . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 701-388-6245 Matt & Jane Wychor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (J) 701-371-7818 or . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (M) 701-371-4654

PRAYER REQUESTS FOR THE TELEPHONE PRAYER CHAIN If you or someone you know is in need of prayer support, please call one of the following:

Lois Niewoehner 701-541-2288; Cindy Sprouls 218-287-6333; Marion Eidenschink 218-287-4310; Church Office 218-233-7569

Bring a White Elephant gift to participate in a Fun Exchange!

Come for lunch & fun fellowship!

mailto:[email protected].


December 1 Dennis & Mary Beth Miller 29 Chris & Betsy Armour 17 Kevin & Allyson Boe 30 Paul & Sonja Beltz

Bill & Lori Lymburner Dan & Holly Holt 18 Jay & Brandy Rodine January 2 Walter & Margaret Moratis 3 Dave & Pam Mork

MAY GOD BLESS YOU ON YOUR WEDDING ANNIVERSARY!

December

1 Bryce Freeman 14 Mike Cossette 26 Eileen Kangas 2 Amy Grandbois Brendan Johnson Scott Stillwell 3 Jonah Paul 15 Gavin Hruza 27 Jadyn Emerson 4 Darrin Martin Patty Welsh Bert McDonough 6 Samantha Neirby 16 Caleb Kazeck Marilyn Tinjum 7 Dakota Hagen Grady Stillwell 29 Randy Ellefson DeAnn Miller 18 Mike Christoffers Heather Oachs 8 Brian Anderson 19 Shelly Brown Lilia Otte Carrie Wuollett Ethan Hoganson 30 Giny A-Mulari 9 Adam Petersen 20 Sam Burns Norman Jensen 10 Harlan Bendickson 21 Anne Mayer Nikki Sprouls Jerry Mindermann Jim Tinjum Pam Wold 11 Kirk Arendes 22 Allyson Kangas 31 Breanna Schmidt Marley Holt 23 Abbi Mayfield Erin Schwanke Jamie Otte 24 Kathy Kuppich Brittany Weinzierl Evan Sailer Milan Olson 13 Brenda Anderson Julie Rohrer January 1 Stu Hoganson 4 Alicia Bement 7 Gary Bloom 2 Nadia Bement Carolyn Olson 9 Dan Birkeland Willis Stelter 5 Sybil Barnum 10 Sharon Mindermann 3 Paul Beltz Stacy Hancock Marlys Long

Holly Holt Tanner Paulson Janel Hruza Spencer Barnum

A BLESSED BIRTHDAY TO YOU FROM YOUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS IN CHRIST AT OUR REDEEMER.


December 1 David Becker 2 David Bergum 3 Gary, Michelle, Evan, & Jenna Bloom 4 Gwen Bolster, Kristi Kackman 5 Kelsey Brockberg 6 Daryl, Christi, Chelsea, & Morgan Bubbers 7 Steve, Leah, Noah, & Grace Busse 8 Neal, Lisa, Danielle, & Evan Cook 9 Derrald & Evon Dewald 10 Maida Eldevick 11 Terry & Kari Erickson 12 Julia Bakken 13 Doug & Lenore Becker 14 Gloria Bloom 15 Jason, Tricia, Zach, and Jacob Boor; Brody & Keely Terry 16 Lindsey Brockberg 17 Ken, Gwen, Dan, Tyler, & Dillan Budd, Morgan Sorenson 18 Ed & Clarene Butenhoff 19 Ryan & Jack Cook 20 Mike, Val, Malinda, & Kristie Cossette 21 Stephanie, Shania, & Sierra Counts, Sasha & Shelby Wessels 22 Helen Dewald 23 Darlene Ellefson 24 Frances Fadness 25 Norma Bergum 26 JoAnn Fiechtner 27 Kate Friedrich 28 Kendall & Becky Goltz 29 Lynn & Amanda Hallman 30 Jan & Susan Hartwick 31 Brandon, Skyler, & Cody Hintzen January 1 Dan, Holly, Evan, Tatum, & Marley Holt 2 Kelly, Mary, Andie, Elise, & Owen Janke 3 Bob, Sue, Stephanie, Derek, Brendan, & Kyle Johnson 4 Steve & Theresa Kadrie 5 Bryan, Jerilyn, Shawn, & Caleb Kazeck

Gracious & Loving Father, You have created each of

us, and have given us this great gift of life. Help us to treasure each moment, the happy ones and the sad ones, the healthy ones and the weak ones. When our lives are running smoothly, help us to turn to You in thanksgiving and praise. When our lives are in turmoil, help us turn to You for comfort and strength. By Your Word, assure us of Your loving presence in our daily lives. Keep us ever mindful of Your loving promise to always be with us. We pray now for these fellow members of Our Redeemer:

Thank you for all of your contributions and continued to giving to Our Redeemer. This month's expenses exceeded contributions by $5,600.00 due to 5 weeks of expenses last month. Alicia

From Business Manager Alicia Bement

THE STORY

December 2nd Chapter 12: A King Makes Bad Choices

9th Chapter 13: A King Who Had It All *16th Sunday School practices for Children’s Christmas Worship *23rd Sunday School practices for Children’s Christmas Worship *30th No Sunday School *Adult Bible Studies will discuss varied topics yet to be determined to keep all on the same schedule as the Sunday School classes

January 6th Chapter 14: A Kingdom Torn in Two 13th Chapter 15: God’s Messengers 20th Chapter 16: The Beginning of the End 27th Chapter 17: The Kingdoms Fall

January Record Articles Due Date Friday, December 21, 2012


Steward Builders A newsletter to help you grow as a steward

“Joy to the World the Lord Has Come!” Merry Christmas! Telling Others about Jesus At the birth of a child, many parents take pictures and send them over their phones to relatives and friends to tell them about the wonderful news. Sometimes the announcement is made through text messages or email. When Jesus was born, there were no telephones or mail service. However, God had a better method of announcing the birth of His Son. He used His angels. “And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger’ ” (Luke 2:8-12). God, in His sovereignty, did not choose the rulers of the time nor the wealthy to be among those who were the first to hear of Jesus’ birth. Interestingly, He chose a group of people who, in many ways, were considered outcasts. Upon hearing the good news of the Christ Child, the shepherds went to Bethlehem to see Jesus in the manger.

After seeing Jesus, the shepherds went out and “spread the word concerning what had been told to them about this child” (Luke 2:17). God used these people to be His ambassadors. The people who heard the shepherds talk about Jesus were “amazed at what the shepherds said to them” (verse 18).

Like the shepherds, we are called to be faithful witnesses of Jesus and His love. Once we begin to comprehend His love for us, we will be compelled to share that love with others. In telling others, we reflect our gratitude for His love, grace, and mercy. God hears and sees our gratitude through the way we live our lives. Jesus Is Our Treasure In the Christmas story, we are told that the Magi followed the brilliant star in the sky to find Jesus. These noblemen were seeking the “king of the Jews” (Matthew 2:2). The star led them to Bethlehem and “on coming to the house, they saw the child with His mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped Him. Then they opened their treasures and presented Him


with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh” (Matthew 2:11). When the Magi entered the house and saw the baby Jesus, they immediately “bowed down and worshiped Him.” Before they gave their gifts, they first showed their reverence. In essence, they gave themselves. Their hearts were filled with joy to be in the presence of the King. After they had shown Jesus their adoration, they gave their gifts of gold, incense, and myrrh.

The Magi willingly gave their gifts because they had first given their hearts to Jesus. In much the same way that the Magi gave, the Apostle Paul refers to the giving of the people in the Macedonian churches. In his letter to the church in Corinth, he asks the church to give to the needy church in Jerusalem. As an encouragement for their giving, he refers to the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. (2 Corinthians 8:2-5). Both the Magi and the people in the Macedonian churches gave themselves before they gave their gifts. Stewardship is self-giving before it is money-giving. Jesus said, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). Through Word and Sacrament, Jesus reveals Himself to us as our treasure, and for that our hearts are eager to respond in generous giving.

For a Godly Church Leadership may determine the church’s level, but you and I determine her character. Someone has suggested: If the church grows, it is because your attendance is regular and you invite and bring friends regularly. If it is an active church, it is because you are committed to her ministries and give your time and influence to them. If it is a Scriptural church, it is because you insist on nothing short of Biblical preaching and teaching. If it is a friendly church, it is because you are friendly. You take the initiative to meet and greet new and old alike each week. If it is a soul-winning church, it is because you are a soul winner and you are interested in bringing others to Christ. If it is an educated church, it is because you attend the Bible studies and other educational opportunities and desire to learn the Bible. If it is a giving church, it is because you give, not just of your tithes and offerings but of your God-given abilities and time. Let’s work at making the church that kind of church. It takes all of us working together with our leaders and with each other. Our concern for others must be evident, and our burden for a lost world must have top priority.

our redeemer lutheran church - clover...

Documents