Mt. Olive

Council meeting September 1, 2010

2010-09-09T09:15:00.001-04:00

PRESENT: Ron & Doreen Hietsch, Janet Frisch, Bill Logan, Rich Winkle, John
Hazelwood, Gary Paumen, Jeff Emge, Arnie Brock, Erik Vecere, Lisa
Hunter, John Musser, George Trautman, George Quay, Kathy Brown, Matt
& Deb McCauley, Sandee St. John, Debbie Levato, Laura Gibson, Scott
Rodenbeck, Steve Peterson, Renee Griffith, Joan Snair, Shawn Brobeck,
Ken Milachin, Rex Pagani, and Marilyn Huber
SPEAKERS: Rev. Dr. Chris Wicher, President of the Eastern District
Rev. Fred Poeppel, Circuit Counselor
Rev. Wicher came to explain the process we as a church and congregation will be going through during this difficult time of adjustment. It is very similar to the grieving process and each of us will proceed at our own pace.
Rev. Poeppel will be available for any questions we may have as we move forward. Both have been through this before, and offered much reassurance and support to us.
What is expected is from this moment on, we are not to involve Pastor Pingle in any church matters as he and his family prepare to move on to his next church.
It will take approximately 18 months for a new Pastor to be voted in. During this time, the Rev.s will make recommendations for an Intentional Interim Pastor. He will fill the role of pastor for the time being. He can attend church meetings if we so request. The Council President and Elders will discuss salary and his schedule with him.
A Call Committee will be developed that is to represent a fair cross section of our congregation, but should include an Elder or 2 and representation of our ministries. This committee should not have more than 10 members.
The Call Committee is to conduct a Self Study of the church and congregation. This is an intensive, extensive look at what the church’s needs, wants, and expectations are. Rev. Wicher will provide the format for the study.
Once the Self Study is completed, Rev. Wicher will provide the committee with a Call list of potential pastors. Church members can also make nominations for the pastoral position.
The Call Committee will then call the prospective pastors and perform an interview, addressing all the concerns, requirements and commitments our church want with a new Pastor.
The Call Committee then brings the names to the Voters Committee and they select who will become our new Pastor.
Both Rev. Wicher and Rev. Poeppel again offered their support and for us to contact them when questions arise.
Regular Council Meeting
Rex Pagani announced our custodian is resigning effective 9/12/10. If anyone knows of someone who may be interested, please refer them to the church office to fill out an application.
Diane Davis is resigning from working with the Hall reservations effective 9/12/10. We need someone to take her place, as well as work on setting the hall up and breaking it down after an event.
Our office secretary, Michelle wants to continue working in her position and is offering to keep the church schedule going. Council would like to see the Newsletter start back up and they feel Michelle can do it. All the heads of boards/ministries would need to provide Michelle with information on the groups so it can be included in the Newsletter.
Marilyn Huber is also resigning as Council Secretary effective 10/10.

Mt Olive Council November 2009

2009-12-24T11:42:00.002-05:00

11/15/09

PRESENT: Matt McCauley, John Musser, Rex Pagani, Steve Peterson, Janet Frisch, Pastor, Helen Gillingham, Marilyn Caruso, Tom Rodenbach and Marilyn Huber.

1) Matt reported the Baked Potato event was well attended with approximately 80 people. Everyone really seemed to enjoy the gathering. The Chili Cook-off will be held on 1/23/10 @ 5PM. The Wine & Cheese party will be on 4/17/10 @ 7PM. A Sundae Social will be held on 6/6/10 and due to the success of the 1st one another Baked Potato event will be held in the fall of 2010.

2) Marilyn attended to discuss the progress of the Stewardship program. Even in these hard economic times, we need to continue to give to our church. Even an extra 1% at a time is beneficial.

3) Janet reports the Kitchen Committee she has organized can always use help. She does not want the kitchen to return to what it was. Counsel agreed her hard work and the help of others has been a great advantage and will be looking for members to continue their cleaning.

4) Tom will be Santa Clause for the Breakfast with Santa to be held on 12/12/09 in the hall. This is an event to raise money for the Youth Group. Also, selling chocolate covered pretzels and a few Spaghetti dinners during week days will be used as fund raisers.

5) Helen discussed pens and magnets being used to help promote the growth of our church. She is looking for donations of appx. $150.00 to get started on the cost of these products.

6) Steve informed Counsel the church is currently $90,000.00 in the red. We are down $56,000 from 2 years ago. We have been able to save $30,000 without having a Vicar. At the Counsel meeting in Dec. 09, he is to present the new Budget to Counsel.

7) John announced we have purchased a salt spreader and the salt is on order. He will put a note on the dash board of the snow removal vehicle to turn off the fuel pump when not in use so as to not drain the battery. Rex & John want to hold a fund raising dinner for Pastor in early Jan. 2010 to help Pastor with his trip to India later in the month. Pastor announced how successful the Blessing of the Animals was, there were many in attendance with their pets. Also, the old Vicar’s house has been rented to a mother and her 2 children. The rent was reduced to $550.00 a month including water and sewage. Our church secretary did a wonderful job of screening prospective renters.

2009-11-16T09:15:00.001-05:00

MT. OLIVE COUNSEL MEETING

10/18/09

PRESENT: Matt McCauley, James St. John, John Musser, Rich Winkle Jr., Patty Dauer,
Jen Vecre, Rex Pagani, Pastor Pingel, Kathy Brown, Ann Emge, Deb
Levato, and Marilyn Huber.

1) Matt informed counsel there will be a baked potato social hour after 2nd
Service on 11/3/09. There will be a variety of toppings to choose from.

2) Ann is organizing a trip to Woodwards Apple Orchard on 10/24/09 for Sunday
School children and their families. A co-teacher is still needed for 6th & 7th grade class on Sundays.

3) A general discussion was held concerning snow removal this coming winter.
There are 2 men already slated for the AM and PM hours. Volunteers will be accepted, some of the men in attendance were offering to help as well. The key will be to have better communications so there is no confusion on who and when the work gets done. Counsel approved the purchase of salt and a spreader. There is a gas cap key for the Bronco. The key to the cap will be kept in the shed, along with some gas cans.

4) Rich had questions about the Vicar’s house for rent. He suggested a “For
Sign” in the front yard may be of benefit. There was also a question about
profits from the rental and taxes. Pastor will check into that money becoming
tax exempt.

5) Deb announced the pre-school program is helping Sue Pierson collect items
for soldiers to be mailed overseas. Activities the pre-school has had so far are
the Fire Dept. coming in to talk to the children about fire safety, Vision Care
came to speak of eye care and they went Trick or Treatin at Cambridge Village. To aid in the spread of illness they clean the toys and tables with Cloroax and are using had wipes.

6) Kathy announced MOPS will hold a Christmas Boutique on 11/8/09, also that
same day there will be a bake and soup sale to raise funds for MOPS.

7) Parstor announced that Arnie Brock and the Geneva student will both run the
Jr. Youth Group. Pastor would like to see the youth in the church get involved with the bells again. Kathy volunteered to get it going again. He also would like the children’s choir to be a part of service. We discussed Swine Flu and precautions to take in church. Recommendations were to not shake hands during greeting and getting hand sanitizers in the Sanctuary. Pastor would also like to have volunteers to be “Prophets” during the Advent Services.
8) Rex is going to get the Finance Committee together to review the Budget.
There has been a large savings with the absence of the Vicar.

A quote from Pastor:

“SAME WIND MAN………………SAME WIND.”

2009-08-05T11:39:00.001-04:00

Sinners Anonymous: Matthew 9: 9-13
An organization called “Alcoholics Anonymous” has been of great service to many people afflicted with alcoholism. Associated in its work are people who are THEMSELVES alcoholics and have helped each other overcome the problem. One of the first steps in the process is to ADMIT to themselves—and to others—that they are, indeed, alcoholics—completely unable to handle intoxicating liquor, and therefore committed to the necessity of never again touching the stuff!
TO BE HELPED, others have to make the same admission and to recognize the same necessity. They are then encouraged to “seek POWER from on high” in order to achieve what is humanly impossible! This is where there is some shortfall in the program, but at least it begins to point people in the right direction.
As part of my training in seminary I chose to take classes in chemical dependency, and part of that training was to attend a number of AA meetings. Several things characterized these meeting.
1 Cigarette smoke. I‘ve never been to an AA meeting where the room wasn’t filled with smoke. There’s a reason for that but I won’t get into it.
2 The more important thing was a gut wrenching HONESTY which characterized the meetings. Which I have seen nowhere else since—at least with that level of intensity.
3 The third thing was FELLOWSHIP created by this common problem, and their commitment to being of assistance to one another. There was no condemnation,
4
no condescension, no looking down on others, just a desire to help! And a willingness to stand by those in need.

NOW, it’s not my purpose to comment today on Alcoholics Anonymous, except to say for any shortcomings in the program, it has still helped a lot of people and still has probably the best overall record for helping people overcome this affliction. No other organization, including the church, has been able to do as much as AA. That’s became they know what they are about, and they accept people into their ranks in the light of common goals and concerns.
BUT this raises a question. Does the CHURCH know what it’s about? Is the CHURCH aware of what it really is? AND is its fellowship meaningful in the sense that it really works? WHAT IS THE CHURCH ANYWAY?
Some people have the impression that the church is a collection of high class snobs, who come together for the purpose of criticizing everyone except themselves! Where would they get that impression?
One thing is for sure: This picture of the church as an assembly of RIGHTEOUS people, smugly sure of themselves and bitterly critical of everyone else, CERTAINLY doesn’t come from JESUS CHRIST, the founder of the CHURCH! In fact, as our text

states, Jesus felt quite at home with sinners! In fact, he he openly ASSOCIATED with so called “SINNERS” –a practice which brought criticism and censure from others, PARTICULARLY the “religious” people of his day!
AND MAKE NO MISTAKE, the people he received and even sought out were REALLY sinners! They were tax collectors, political grafters, who cheated people blind; they were women with lurid reputations, women of the streets; No one else would even talk with them, Jesus ate and drank with them! According to the custom of the time, sitting at table with another was a sign of ACCEPTANCE—still true in that region of the world today!
He was not above eating and drinking and talking with these people, considered OUTCASTS, the SCUM of lst century society!
In fact, when Christians look at our Lord Jesus Christ, we see in him PERSONIFICATION of a divine invitation issued centuries before through the prophet Isaiah:
“Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord; though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be white as snow; though they are like crimson, they shall become like wool.”
Don’t get me wrong; Jesus didn’t CONDONE sin. He didn’t take sin lightly, simply wink at it and pretend it didn’t exist. Jesus describes sin throughout the Gospels in all its ugliness and in terms of its devastating eternal consequences. Left unchecked, it will separate us from God now and eternally. God’s wrath rests upon sin. In the sight of God, sin is scarlet, blood red. And yet, it says, OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST visited with sinners, even ate with them! Extending to sinners of every description a divine invitation to a brand new relationship with God based upon grace and forgiveness.
So here’s the first point I’d make. Wherever the church exists, it is first and foremost an ASSEMBLY of people who are THEMSELVES sinners, and know it. They don’t just THINK about sinners, they don’t just TALK about sinners, they ARE sinners…and they know it. They’re not the kind of people who sit around saying: “Well, I’m not so bad after all. At least I’m not like so and so, ‘cause I go to church and my record is good.’ When the Church is doing its job, it consists of people who could very well call themselves SINNERS ANONYMOUS.
In fact, Christians should come across as refreshingly honest people. Who admit to themselves and to others, what they are. Every week when they come together, they say these or similar words; “I a poor miserable sinner confess my sins and iniquities which I have ever offended thee, and justly deserved thy temporal and eternal punishment.” They think of their own sins as nothing short of scandalous; and they see themselves as needing a SAVIOR just as much as anyone else. And they know that they are RIGHTEOUS in the sight of God. Not because they are such GOOD people, but because CHRIST has clothed them with HIS righteousness, and they see themselves as constantly in need of God’s forgivness.
THE CHURCH, “SINNERS ANONYMOUS”—is a fellowship of people who have the same problem, sin, and they have come to Jesus Christ, and his cross, as the answer to that problem.

II Obviously, and unfortunate, many people don’t have this picture of the church. Many people OUTSIDE the church think of the Church as the LAST place to go with this problem of sin. They think: “I’m not good enough to be part of that organization! I’d never feel at home; I’d never be accepted.
Where do people get this impression? Very often the idea comes from the people of the church. When the church doesn’t have a correct understanding of itself, the church can become a breeding ground for PHARISEES and PHARISAICAL THINKING. The church becomes a country club which specializes in criticizing and condemning those on the outside, rather than an organization dedicated to extending God’s invitation to “come” to the Lord for forgiveness and healing. The church says, in effect: Clean up your act, and THEN come and see us. And maybe, just maybe, we’ll judge you good enough to let you in.
Too often the church forgets what it is. It is NOT a social club. It is a fellowship of people who are united by a common problem. In AA, that problem is alcoholism. In the church, that problem is SIN. And all of us are sinners. So, none of us can afford to boast. Alcoholism is characterized by powerlessness, a lack of control. Listen to PAUL as he speaks of his sin: “For I am the chief of sinners.” “The very thing I should not do, that I do; and that which I ought to do, I do not. O wretched man that I am! Who shall save me from this body of death?” But thanks to God, through Jesus Christ our Lord!”
The fellowship of the Church is not based on being perfect. It’s based on a common need, and what we all have been fortunate to receive, through the merits of Jesus Christ; Grace and forgiveness. We’ve all been recipients, says Paul, of grace upon grace. We’re a fellowship of sinners, forgiven sinners, gathered around the cross of our dear Lord.
In AA the basically philosophy is that the one who knows they have A PROBLEM and has wrestled with the problem is in the best position to be of help. Who can best reach a world of sinners for Christ? People who with humility know what they themselves are: Sinners. Ordinary people who recognize their own sin and shortcomings, and yet who have found a solution to sin in the grace of God who forgives sins freely through is Son. When we sound high and mighty and SELF-RIGHTEOUS, that drives people away. When we raise things of minor importance to levels of absolute necessity…we do a disservice to those on the outside. When we become more concerned about buildings and places and programs than PEOPLE and their need for God…we project to outsiders something less than an inviting image.
Our text says that Jesus “ate and drank with tax collectors and sinners.” This is significant, because it tells us that God finds sinners where they are. He doesn’t say: “straighten out, then come.” He says: “Come, let us reason together.”
The Church is no place for proud Pharisees…no person who takes the cross seriously can be proud of himself or herself. He or she can never TAKE a righteous, condemning, judgmental attitude toward others. Why? We’re all members of SINNERS ANONYMOUS. We’re all in the same boat.

One of the great and ancient symbols of the church is the ship or boat. This is appropriate. We’re all in the same boat. The same boat with tax collectors and sinners, with drug users and corrupt businessmen, with sinners of all times and places. Our fellowship is not based on self righteousness, but on our need for Jesus.
Maybe you’re here visiting this morning. Welcome. Welcome to Sinners Anonymous. We can relate to you. We’re just like you. We are lost in sin. But let me tell you, brother and sister, there is mercy for you too, at the cross. Mercy like we’ve received. No one, no matter what they’ve done, is ever beyond the reach of God in Jesus Christ. We invite you to join with us, fellow sinners, redeemed by the Son of God, and Savior of the world. We hear the gracious invitation as we gather around the Lord’s table this morning: “Come, says the Lord, though your sins be scarlet, they shall be white as snow, though they are like crimson, they shall be like wool.” The invitation is engraved with the name of Jesus Christ, who gave his life for us. “Come now” says the Lord. Amen.

Mt Olive Council Mtg May 2009

2009-06-08T09:07:00.002-04:00

In attendance: Rex Pagani, Kathy Brown, Debra McCauley, Janet Frisch, Vicar Zach, John Musser, Helen Gillingham, Megan Why, Pastor Pingel and Marilyn Huber.

1) Kathy discussed Darlington Days activities. MOPS will have iced tea, snacks and a changing table. They will be taking registrations for MOPS. A rummage sale will be held September 5, 2009 and a Yard sale will take place on September 12, 2009 to help raise funds.
2.) Deb spoke of this year's success with the Wine and Cheese party. The Ice Cream Social will be June 7 after second service. Consideration is being given to Brewsters coming with their ice cream cart, including toppings. There will also be hot dogs, chips and pretzels.
3.)Megan from the Board of Education spoke on Teacher Appreciation Fruit Baskets begin given out. There will only be Summer School in June. Vacation Bible School already has its teachers, but volunteers for other activities are always welcomed.
4.)Helen addressed the need to get the business cards for hall rentals out to the public. The holders for the cards have been delivered to the church and need to be taken to the businesses contacted. Pastor pointed out that hall rental is greatly helping to keep the church afloat.
5.)John informed that the props from the drama events are now in storage in the shed on the church's property. Steve peterson from Morrow Motors loaned a van to help move these items.
6.)Vicar Zach reported he has completed his meetings with the Geneva students since school is out for the summer. A couple of these students still continue to attend services on Sundays.
7.)Janet announced that Telecare calling will be discontinued, at least for the summer. Discussion was held on the possibility of emailing people with computers and calling the others when this ministry continues.
8.)Pastor relayed that Debbie Levato has been interviewing for a preschool teacher. Nine of the 12 positions are filled. Also, Pastor has been talking with Josh Roach from Geneva about taking over the Youth Ministry since Vicar Zach will be returning to the seminary. In another matter, Pastor urged the completion of the showers since they will be needed for the upcoming Youth event in July. The rug scrubber needs upgraded to a new one because the cost to repair the old one is too great.
Pastor has an urgent plea...for parishioners to take a more active role in the upkeep of the church. Everyone's help is needed in one way or another.

Mt. Olive Counsel Meeting April 19

2009-05-06T09:55:00.002-04:00

In Attendance: Rex Pagani, Matt McCauley, Vicar Zach, Pastor Pingel, Helen Gillingham, Janet Frisch, Ann Emge and Marilyn Huber

1. Rex thanked Pastor for the wonderful services and events of Easter week.
2. Pastor discussed the work ahead for installing 3 showers in the area of an old closet downstairs. The showers will be used when the servant event is held here this summer. The trustees have approved this decision. A plumber is needed to help complete the work. Four new outdoor table and chairs have been purchased to be used for events held at the hall. Hall rentals are beginning to pick up. Pastor also stated that Confirmation Sunday is May 31, 2009. Pastor also reported the Bronco with a plow have been purchased for snow removal beginning next winter.
3. Helen spoke on behalf of the Publicity Committee. New business cards including photos and information on hall rental have been completed and will begin to be distributed to various businesses. The committee has a list of caterers, florists, funeral homes, chair rentals, linen services, etc. for those renting that need assistance in completing their event.
4. Vicar spoke for the Evangelism Board on how well the blood pressure screenings went at the Maple Syrup Festival. The Junior Youth group will be holding monthly fundraisers to defray the cost of their upcoming trip. The Vicar also noted that he has been meeting with students from Geneva a couple times a week and several students are attending services on Sundays.
5. Ann reported the Easter Egg Hunt went very well. Also, the Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) will be serving as Readers, Ushers and Greeters at the services on Mothers Day.
6. Matt reminded all that the Sundae Social will be held in the hall on June 7, after second service.

Leaning on the Word of God in Challenging Times- Lesson 13

2009-04-30T11:40:00.003-04:00

For the most part, we have been looking at how we can trust in the Word of God whenever we struggle as individuals. Now, we will study the problems the entire church is facing in difficult times. How can the body of Christ trust in the Word of God when entire congregations are failing? How can it trust the Word when anti-Christian groups are having great success? There are so many challenges facing the church as a whole that at times our faith will be tested.

We will look at news articles that represent these challenges, and we will search for law and Gospel in these situations. You will see how God is at work defending, and nurturing his church even in times of decline.

Read the news article below:

http://www.morningsun.net/news/x126904828/Church-says-goodbye-to-building-after-94-years

Congregations across the US are shrinking, and being forced out of buildings. It can have a devastating effect on the life of the believer. How can Christians keep themselves from becoming too attached to their buildings? If you belong to a church, what does the building mean to you?

A church is wherever the Word of God is proclaimed in purity, and the sacraments (baptism and Lord's Supper) are administered faithfully. We may have many memories of a particular place, but our faith can be strengthened anywhere God is at work.

In this article the pastor said that the Church will continue to live on. How can he be so sure?

Read Matthew 16:13-18. Remember that the rock is not Peter in particular, but faith. Faith in Christ is the rock. Christ will defend his church against all forces that threaten it.

Do you see the law at work in this article? Do you see any gospel?

The law is that all man-made structures are temporary. Everything in this world is decaying, because sin has damaged creation. Nothing lasts forever, not even a church building.

The Gospel is that Christ has given this congregation the Word, and faith. They will continue on under his care, albeit at a new location. Also, buildings may rot and fall apart, but God's promises do no such thing.

Read Ephesians 5:25-27, 29 and 1 Timothy 3:14-15 to see how God cares for his church.

Leaning on the Word of God in Challenging Times- Lesson 12

2009-04-16T10:08:00.002-04:00

I hope you had a joyful Easter! Christ has risen!

We are continuing our Bible Study on Trusting in the Word of God in Challenging Times. This week, we are moving on with our our study of law and gospel. In this lesson we will look at how law and gospel can be applied to our lives, especially in times of suffering.

1) Luther referred to the law as God's "alien work." This means that he does not enjoy punishing us for our sin. It is not what he wants to do. Yet, he does it so that he can do his proper work. His "proper work" is the gospel- forgiving, healing, restoring all of creation.

We need to use both law and gospel when we speak to others. While the gospel should always eclipse the law, both are necessary.

Is it ever necessary to tell someone about their sin, and how God threatens to punish all sinners?

Should we just use the Gospel, and only tell others about forgiveness and love?

The person who does not repent of their sin, and feels that they have not disobeyed God needs to hear the law. The law should always be carefully and gently applied to others. If a person is suffering we should never say that God is punishing them, because we rarely know why bad things happen. However, if a person is suffering from a direct result of sin then we can use the law to show them a better way. (For example, if someone blows all of their money at a casino we can tell that person that "God wants us to be good stewards of money and other possesions. We shouldn't waste it on frivolous pursuits.")

We should always be quick to apply the Gospel. Afterall, it is exciting news that is hard to hold back. Jesus Christ has died for your sins! You now have peace with God, and you are apart of his new creation! It should always follow the law, because the law cannot improve our lives or save us- only the gospel can.

2) Below are some statements that a Christian might say in an attempt to comfort another who is suffering. Can you tell which statements are law statements and which are gospel?

1) “You are suffering because God is no longer smiling on you. Do not worry, because God wants to smile on you. Just do his will and everything will be ok!”

2) God has not abandoned you. We know that his Son, Jesus, has promised to never forsake us.

3) God is in control of everything! Just give him control of your life.

Statements 1 and 3 were law statements. They tell a person what they must do, and imply that the person is suffering because they have done something wrong. The second statement focuses on what God does for us, and the promise we have in his Word.

3) Read Galatians 2:19-21. What is the purpose of the law? How does Paul live?

Paul lives by faith. That is how we live, in good times and bad. We live on the promises of God. We move past sin, and move on with our lives trusting in the forgiveness and goodness of God. So we can suffer knowing that Christ has come to heal our broken hearts, and his Spirit is at work repairing our faults.

Spiritual exercise- Pray that God would give you the ability to understand and distinguish the difference between law and gospel.

Leaning on the Word of God in Challenging Times- Part 12

2009-04-16T09:23:00.002-04:00

I hope you had a joyful Easter! Christ has risen!

We are continuing our Bible Study on Trusting in the Word of God in Challenging Times. This week, we are continuing our study of law and gospel. In this lesson we will look at how law and gospel can be applied to our lives, especially in times of suffering.

1) Luther referred to the law as God's "alien work." This means that he does not enjoy punishing us for our sin. It is not what he wants to do. Yet, he does it so that he can do his proper work. His "proper work" which is the gospel- forgiving, healing, restoring all of creation.

We need to use both law and gospel when we speak to others. While the gospel should always eclipse the law, both are necessary.

Is it ever necessary to tell someone about their sin, and how God threatens to punish all sinners?

Should we just use the Gospel, and only tell others about forgiveness and love?

The person who does not repent of their sin, and feels that they have not disobeyed God needs to hear the law. The law should always be carefully and gently applied to others. If a person is suffering we should never say that God is punishing them, because we rarely know why bad things happen. However, if a person is suffering from a direct result of sin than we can use the law to show them a better way. (For example, if someone blows all of their money at a casino we can tell that person that "God wants us to be good stewards of money and other possesions. We shouldn't waste it on frivolous pursuits.")

2) Below are some statements that a Christian might say in an attempt to comfort another who is suffering. Can you tell which statements are law statements and which are gospel?

1) “You are suffering because God is no longer smiling on you. Do not worry, because God wants to smile on you. Just do his will and everything will be ok!”

Easter Bible Study

2009-04-07T11:21:00.001-04:00

We will pick up our study of “Leaning on the Word in Challenging Times” next week. As Easter is a day that cannot be ignored, we will study the resurrection account found in Luke 24.

Christ is risen! This study is based on: Arthur A. Just, Luke 9:51-24:53, Concordia Commentary Series, Concordia Publishing House: St. Louis, 1997.

Read Luke 24:1-12

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2024:1-12;&version=31;

1) What are the women expecting to find when they go to the tomb? (Verses 1-3)

What does the angel ask the women?

The angels ask the women a stunning question: “Why do you look for the living among the dead?” Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Mary the mother of James believed in the resurrection of the dead, just like we do. Like us, they knew it would happen on the Day of the Lord, the day when Christ returns, but the women did not expect to see the resurrection now! The Resurrection has an immediate meaning for us. Certainly, Christ rose first so that we know that we will rise one day, but that Christ remains alive even now means that death has been completely defeated. So that when our physical bodies are laid in the ground to wait for the resurrection, our souls will never die. One day soul and body will be reunited to live forever under Christ.

Think about what the resurrection means for you today.

2) Read verses 6-7. What did the angels say to the women?

What tone of voice do you think the angels used?

Has Jesus ever said anything like this about himself?

Jesus made many passion predictions about himself in Luke. He even uses the same words as the angels by calling himself the Son of Man in Luke 9:22, 44 and 18:31.He also says the will be “crucified”, that he will rise on the third day. After reading these predictions and being reminded by the angels one more time, we know that these things had to happen. God had planned to give his only Son into the hands of men to die, and rise again.

How does it feel to know that God planned these things to save you?

3) What did the women do after the angels reminded them of Christ’s words to them? (verses 9-11)

The disciples responded to the women with unbelief. How would you respond to them?

It does seem like nonsense that someone could raise from the dead. The disciples might have thought the women had gone insane. Yet, God uses the things that seem foolish to demonstrate his power. These women are the first evangelists! What a prestigious place to have in history! Many of us hear these words: “Christ is risen!” with unbelief. We search for the hard evidence, but find only rags. The Holy Spirit creates faith apart from “hard” evidence, faith is worked through the Word of God. Remember, that Christ said it is necessary for the Son of man to die and rise again and believe.

Please post any questions or comments below.

Leaning on the Word of God in Challenging Times- Lesson 11

2009-04-02T09:15:00.002-04:00

We have looked at a few examples of biblical figures who have trusted in the Word of God in the midst of suffering. Now we will take a turn, and look at the doctrines of law and gospel. Law and gospel has an important place in the life of every believer, and it certainly has an application to the difficult times we endure.

For now, we will introduce the topic of law and gosepl and later we will apply to how we view suffering. (Once again, much of this bible study will be taken from John T. Pless's book Word:God Still Speaks to Us, a part of the Lutheran Spirituality Series. [Concordia Publishing House: St. Louis, 2006.])

1) Luther writes that there are two things that God has to say to us in scripture- a word of the law, and a word of the Gospel. The law is what God commands us to do. It is best summarized by the 10 commandments. God expects us to obey the law, because if we break it we would do the one thing he cannot tolerate: sin. The law threatens us with punishment and condemnation.

The Gospel is quite different. The Gospel speaks peace and salvation to us. It is best found in the death and resurrection of Christ. The Gospel tells us of God's promises to redeem us and bring us into his new creation.

2) Read at 2 Corinthians 3:7-11

What is the ministry that brought us death? (Pless, 13)

The law brings death. It cannot be fulfilled without Christ. Consider Psalm 14:1-3. No one can obey the law; therefore if it weren't for Christ we would be condmened.

What is the ministry of the Spirit?

The ministry of the Spirit is the Gospel. The Spirit creates faith in us, so that we are rescued from the law and death. The Spirit continues to minister to us to preserve and protect our faith, so that we can continue to grasp the grace and salvation offered in the gospel.

3) Read Romans 3:19-31 (Pless, 13)

We hear the words justification and justice in these passages. What does Paul mean?

Paul is using a court room analogy. We are guilty and deserve to be sentenced to death. God's justice demands that we die for our sins. However, we are declared innocent, because God has given us his Son's righteousness. Our sins are forgiven by God, because God sent his Son, Jesus, to die in our place! Justification means that we have been declared righteous and forgiven by God.

Look again at verse 31. Why do we uphold the law if we are justified only by Christ's life, death and resurrection?

Once we are justified the law takes on a new pupose. It helps us answer a new question. Before we had to ask "what must I do to be saved?". God has shown us that salvation comes by faith in Christ. Now that we have the answer; we ask how should I live? We live upholding the law, because the Holy Spirit works to turn us away from our sin. We also obey the law out of gratitude and sheer love for God. We can serve God freely. Yet, we know that obedience will not save us, only the grace that get through faith saves us.

4) What do you think of the difference between law and gospel?

How do both law and gospel affect your life as a believer?

What does the law have to say to you in your sufferings?

Spiritual Exercise:

As we enter Holy Week, look for messages of Law and Gospel. If you do not usually go to church attend some of the Easter Services, and see if you can pick out what is law and what is gospel.

Thank You Letter from CA.S.T. to our Church

2009-03-30T09:34:00.003-04:00

Dear Participating Church,

As we begin the year of 2009, I want to thank you on behalf of the board for your faithful support of C.A.S.T. with financial contributions, food cellctions and participation in the outreach programs. In the sixteen and a half years of existence, because of your support, we have been able to help so many individuals & families in so many ways. In 2008 alone we gave out bags of food, help people with shut off notices for utilities , kept families from being evicted, outfitted 367 children for back to school, helped individuals grow vegetables for their own consumption and gave over 62 families 476 Christmas gifts and food. This was only accomplished becuase of your loving outreach through C.A.S.T. Thank you seems so small and inadequate for your enthusiastic support. Since becoming a participating church you have embraced the work of C.A.S.T. in many different ways. First, you have made your congregation aware of us resulting in your financial support and collection of non-perishable food items. Second, you have supported our various program needs, (back to school, S.E.L.F. [Seeds, Earth, Labor, Food] Easter, Thanksgiving, and the Christmas giving.) This ministry has grown and is growing in so many ways because of your generosity.

I know that with all the needs in the world we are constantly being asked for help and I also know that you will not forget the needs of the people in Beaver County. I can say with full confidence that God will truly bless the members of your church for helping Churches Are Serving Together, Inc. to put God's and your love into action.

Gratefully yours in Christ,

Mary Jane Verbe

President/ Director

P.S. I am asking that all food items collected be checked for expiration dates and discarded by you. Also, it would help us if you could call to see what items we are most in need of in the pantry.

Leaning on the Word of God in Challenging Times- Part 10

2009-03-26T09:36:00.003-04:00

Usually, when we suffer our faith is tested at the same time. We suffer, and we ask God "why?". We may feel like he isn't listening, or that he doesn't care. I hope our past studies have helped you if you struggle, and are losing your grip on the Word and salvation.

Suffering can refine our faith and cause us to cry out: "I know that my redeemer lives!" (Job 19) May the Holy Spirit align your sufferings with the sufferings of Christ, so that you may become more like him.

God has not forgotten and he has promised to end your sufferings, and bring you into the joy of heaven. For now we can be like Paul in 2 Corinthians 11 and 12, and boast in our troubles!

1) Read 2 Corinthians 21b-29

Why is Paul listing all of his sufferings? If you made a list, how would it compare?

Paul does not want to show off how tough he is, but to show that if a Christian has to boast it should not be in their strengths and accomplishments. A Christian should boast in suffering to show that in our sufferings God has identified with us. Then others will know that there is no kind of suffering that God will not understand, or there is no trouble so low that we cannot find God.

Look at John 19:3; 19:23; and 19:28 and compare these verses with Paul's list of hardships. Do you see any similarities?

2) Read 2 Corinthians 12:6-10

Paul recieved a thorn in his flesh (how nice!). What was this thorn? Do you have any thorns?

The thorn might have been a physical disability or a speech impediment or some other handicap. A thorn in the flesh might mean some kind of physical suffering, or a weak area where Paul was constantly tempted. Most of us have a thorn(s) like this.

Where is the gospel in this passage?

We find it when we read that God's grace is sufficient for Paul. It is sufficient for you too! God shows his strength in our weakness. He gives his grace and strength to the pain racked- decaying body. He gives it to the handicapped, and the despised people of the world. The death and resurrection of his humble Son is more than enough to sustain us for now, and in the end it will restore and heal us on the Last Day.

Trusting in the Word of god in Challenging Times- Lesson 9

2009-03-19T10:58:00.002-04:00

This week we are going to look at Isaiah 42:1-9- the first Servant Song. The four Servant Songs in Isaiah refer to Israel and Christ. (The other servant Songs are 49:1-6; 50:4-9; 52:13-53:12) As we read them think of Israel first, then Christ, then us. For our purposes we will see how the servant clings to the Word of God in humility depite his struggles.

1) Read Isaiah 42:1-4. How do you picture this servant?

God chose the servant to do great things. Scripture shows us how God chose Israel. God chose to send his Son. Has he chosen you?

Yes! God has chosen you. God calls you with his Holy Spirit through your faith to serve him. He can use you no matter what your status or abilities. Look at how humble the servant was in Isaiah 42.

2) Look at verse 3 again then jump down to verse 6. The servant goes from a smoldering wick to a light to the nations! How does this happen?

The Lord is glorified by our weakness. He can use the weak, and the fragile to shine before all men. Through our weakness we can glorify God. We can show others a genuine, and tested faith that has been preserved by the Holy Spirit.

Read Luke 2:32. Do you see any similarities between between this verse and Isaiah 42:6?

Christ is the light of the world. He removes the darkness of our sin and he gives us access to the bright and beautiful glory of God. He shines in us, so that we shine before others with our actions.

3) Read Isaiah 42:8-9

What new things will God declare?

Read Luke 22:19-20 and Hebrews 9:15- The new things are God's new covenant. We are no longer under the law. Christ has fulfilled the old covenant for us, so that we can have grace and live by faith under Christ. In this new covenant we can have access to eternal life, salvation, and forgiveness of sins through the Word, Lord's Supper, and baptism.

Spiritual exercise- The last servant song is Isaiah 52:13-53:12. It carries many reminders of Christ's crucifixion. Read through this song and think of Christ as the suffering servant. Consider his agony, and thank God for his tremendous love and devotion to his people.

Council Meeting Feb. 22

2009-03-19T09:47:00.000-04:00

MT. OLIVE COUNSEL MEETING
2/22/09

IN ATTENDANCE: Matt & Debra McCauley, Pastor Pingel, Vicar Zach, Debbie
Levato, Helen Gillingham, Janet Frisch, John Musser, Rex
Pagani, Doreen Hietsch, Steve Petterson, and Marilyn Huber

1) Debbie Levato spoke more on the Pre-K STEP 2 program. The maxium # will be 12 students & there are already 6 enrolled for the upcoming fall. The cost is $85.00 a month and $25.00 for registration. They will need to hire a teacher to assist.
2) Dorren Hietsch is asking for someone new to run the 2 of a Kind program for next year. She would like to train another class for the Steven Ministry program. It would be an asset to have some men join the class. Classes run for 20 weeks.
3) Steve Peterson shared at the last Elders meeting, discussion was on all of the new initiatives the church is involved in. Also, the servant event that will be held at our church this summer. 75 will be the maxium # of people to attend.
4) Matt & Debra McCauley had a wonderful attendance on between 90 and 100 people for the Chili cookoff, with 16 different kinds of Chili. The Wine Tasting party will be on 4/25.
5) Helen Gillingham discussed how the Publicity committee is working on business cards and glossy photos of the hall with information for rental. A printer in Eastvale will produce the products for a nominal cost.
6) Vicar Zach is thinking of starting a devotional group with the attendance of more Geneva students. The Jr. Youth Group will be traveling to York, PA from 7/26-7/31 to perform community services. He is considering an evangelism service of offering free blood pressure screening and possible glucose testing at the upcoming Maple Syrup Festival at Brady’s Run Park.
7) Pastor discussed the Trustees did a good job of fixing Vicar’s sewer line. The Trustees are also considering putting showers in the old laundry room, especially with the servant event coming this summer. The elevator has been inspected by the state and all is well. There is consideration for putting in an exercise room for the youth, parents and perhaps having a seniors exercise program 2 days a week. He asked for counsel to consider stopping Telecare, at least for awhile. Also, the expense for snow removal so far this winter is exceeding $7,000.00, he asked for consideration of the church purchasing a used truck with a plow so we can do it ourselves. It could pay for itself in a year or possibly 2.

Leaning on the Word of God in Challenging Times- Part 9

2009-03-12T11:29:00.002-04:00

We have talked about the doctrine on the Word of God. (The Word of God comes to us as the Incarnate Word, Written Word, Spoken Word). We have also learned about The Holy Spirit and the Word of God. Now we are continuing to apply this doctrine in a meaningful way to the life of the Christian.

When we suffer we need to trust that we can find the Word of God in its three forms, and know that the Holy Spirit is always working. In this we can find comfort in the forgiveness of sins, salvation, and the resurrection.

Have you ever been tempted to turn away from the Word of God?

Have you ever felt that your trust in God was broken?

If you feel this way please continue to look at the Bible study below, but also talk to a pastor or a counselor.

1) Consider the case of Job:

Read Job 1:1- How does the book describe Job?

Job is a man who lost everything. He family, his wealth, his health, and even his friends turned against him. However, he was not a man who was hiding some secret sin. God has not set up a reward and punishment system where if we behave we will prosper, and if we sin we will suffer. Suffering is NOT a sign that God is punishing you.

2) Instead, our suffering can be part of our sanctification. (The process in which we are made holy.)

If God is allowing us to go through a crisis of some type it can cause us to despair of everything else, except God. We see our place in the world as weak and vulnerable. In our position, we cannot overcome the world without Christ. ( This is only a product that suffering might produce. We cannot pretend to know God's exact puposes for us or his will.Yet, we do know that God is working for our good, and the he loves us more than we could know.)

Look at what Job said about his agony. Job 23:10-11 Our troubles can certainly refine us as it did for Job.

Also see Romans 5:3-5.

3) Job's sufferings point us to Christ. Job, a man who had everything stripped away, cried out to his God for hope. (Job 19:25-27) Christ is that hope.

How is Job like Christ?

Read Matthew 27:38-44- Christ had lost everything as well. Yet he endured more and went further than anyone else could go. He died. He died, so that Job might live. He gives you life as well.

In our sufferings, we can look to our redeemer and know that we have onewho can lead us from crisis to crisis to eternal life, security, and a fulfilled hope.

Remember, that in the end God has promised something even greater than an end of human suffering. He promised to save us through his son Jesus Christ. That is a trust that cannot be broken, and that is his will for all who believe.

Again, if your current struggles are causing a crisis of faith talk to a pastor or Christian counselor, and as always feel free to comment below.

Spiritual exercise:

Memorize Job 19:25-26 Pray for a faith like Job's. Ask God to let your stuggles produce in you a greater hope in Christ's return.

Leaning on the Word of God in Challenging Times- part 8

2009-03-05T11:18:00.003-05:00

This week we will continue our discussion of confession and Psalm 32.

1) How do we keep confession from becoming empty and meaningless?

It is easy to let our confessions become mechanical. We repeat the same words, or confess the same sins, and then we hear that we are forgiven. Sometimes we can get lost in the pattern and forget the meaning by reciting the words without thinking.

Yet, our confession retains its value when we do it in view of the cross. There our savior gave up his life! He bore the particular sins that you have committed. Confession is not meaningless, but in it, we can die to our sins and rise as Christ did. (1 John 1:9)

2) Read Psalm 32:8

David is using himself as an example. Look at the healing and forgiveness he has recieved. His example, as well as the example of Israel when they returned from their sins is a testimony to us about the faithfulness of God.

How can being honest with God about your failures improve your relationship with him?

3) Read Psalm 32:11

God is good! He fills us with his grace and love. He heals the broken hearted. The Lord does not make us upright after we make a complete and perfect confession. He makes us upright through the faith that he gives us. Through this faith God gives forgiveness. Confession is a way of living out our faith and trust in God.

Spiritual exercise- Pray these Penitential Psalms throughout Lent: Psalm 6, 38, 51, 102, 130, and 143

Leaning on the Word of God in Challenging Times- Part 7

2009-02-26T12:54:00.003-05:00

It feels good to be back on schedule! In this post we will look at Psalm 32. This is referred to as a penitential psalm. This will guide us into the topic of confession, and trust in God's words of forgiveness.

Read Psalm 32

1) Look at verses 1-5 Have you ever suffered like David?

David is wrestling with guilt, and even though he is silent towards God; he suffers because he knows that his sin has to be dealt with. His refusal to confess his sin is causing him to suffer.

What happens in verse 5?

Have you ever had this experience? When we confess our sins to God, God shows us his mercy. He ends our suffering. You do not have to fear God, Jesus has suffered every pain in our place. Now that we have been relieved by the cross, we can turn towards God and speak the rest of this psalm to God in joy.

2) Look at verses 6-10

Notice the difference? How does God make us secure and confident like David?

When we recieve God's grace we can have happiness and peace. Under God's grace we do not have to suffer under guilt, and fear of judgement. Being placed by God into a new and right relationship with him is the key to this kind of confidence.

3) Does forgiveness of sins depend upon our confession?

No, God has forgiven us, and you were saved by him at your baptism. You are not saved by how much you cry over your sins, or how articulate you are. The victory for sin has already been won for you. However, this does not mean that our sins are meaningless or trite. Sin is a grave offense to God, and his Son gave his life to save us. So, when we give God our heartbroken confession, God will heal us and restore us.

Trusting in the Word of God in Challenging Times- Part 6

2009-02-23T09:10:00.003-05:00

Sorry that this post is late! Things were pretty busy last week, but I will have the next post up on Thursday at the normal time.

We are continuing our study of the Psalms. We will stay in the Psalms through next week, then we will move on to another topic of our study.

1) Read Psalm 46 again.

Look at verses 4 and 5. The first part of the psalm is chaos. Then we read about a peaceful river that feeds the City of God. This city is Zion- the holy city. Where is this Holy City?

The Holy City is the church! God dwells with believers, wherever they are, and makes them into a Holy City. While there is no guarantee that we will not suffer loss and trials; we know that the church on earth will never see total destruction.

Where else is the City of God?

Another way to to understand the City of God is to see it as the new heavens and the new earth that will restore creation after Christ's return.

We understand that through faith, and the means of grace we can live in Zion- the City of God now, but we will dwell there in its full form in eternity.

2) Look at verses 9-11

God will bring an end to war. What do you think it will be like to live in a peaceful world?

Through Christ, we can at least have peace with God. Conflict between our family and friends might continue. Wars will still be fought between nations, for now. Yet we have peace with God, and we can rest securely in his hands until Christ returns to bring an end to violence and strife.

Spiritual exercise- pray Psalm 16 at least once over the next few days, and think of ways that God gives us all good things.

Trusting in the Word of God in Challenging Times- Part 5

2009-02-11T12:58:00.003-05:00

Romans 15 is a good example of how a Christian can always have joy, despite his or her struggles. Afterall, God is a god of hope!

We will turn next to the Psalms. Where we find that we can cry out to God through his word. Psalms are the inspired Word of God like any other book of the Bible, but these inspired words contain some very "human expressions"- anger, fear, grief, security, and trust. The Psalms are a way of speaking to God when you you have problems that are so deep that you cannot find the words on your own.

Psalm 46

1) Read Psalm 46:1-3

The word "trouble" from verse 1 can also mean distress or calamity. What does it mean to hear that God is ever-present in every problem?

Why is it difficult to see God in our struggles?

The sinful nature and Satan wish to rob us of the truth that God is "ever-present". Our problems often distract us, and pull us away from trusting in God. However, whether we can see, feel, or sense God's presence doesn't change a thing! God is always working for the good of those who love him.

2) Look again at verses 2 and 3.

The psalmist is describing the earth giving away, and mountains falling into the sea! It sounds like the end of the world. Why do we have nothing to fear, even if the world were to end?

3) Read Psalm 46:4-7

In contrast to all of the chaos, there is one place where there is peace. The City of God is presented as one place that is indestructible. Where is this city?

This city is where the Word of God has called together the church. Wherever believers are gathered in Christ's name there will be the City of God. Believers will be defended by his might, and protected from destruction.

This City is also where we will dwell forever, free from sin and death, after Christ's return. (Revelations 21)

He really is a God of hope! (Romans 15:13)

** Earlier I stated that i would post a spiritual exercise every week, if you are following this blog you might have noticed that I have not been doing that.

I repent! Here is the spiritual exercise to help you build your devotional life for this week:

Psalm 46 Inspired Luther's famous hymn "A Mighty Fortress is Our God". (LSB 656, 657 LW 297, 298) Look up the words to this hymn and thank God for the shelter and protection he provides for us.

Leaning on The Word of God in Challenging Times- Part 4

2009-02-05T09:52:00.002-05:00

We have studied how the Word of God and the Spirit work together to create faith, strengthen, cleanse, and save us. For the most part, we have been learning doctrine, but in the weeks to come we will see why this doctrine matters. The Word of God is a lifeline that pulls us in to Christ. (The Holy Spirit ties that lifeline around us, so that we do not wander off!) That lifeline cannot be severed no matter how difficult life gets.

We begin the next phase of our study with a look at Romans 15.

1) Read Romans 15:4-5.

Paul uses two "e" words in verse 4 and they are repeated in verse 5 what are they? (Pless, 2006)

The Word of God has endured since the beginning of time, and we have a record of his unbroken promises. We can see that the Word of God endures through every kind of trial. If God has not broken a promise to his people in the past; than what does that mean for his promises to us?

2) Read Romans 15:6.

Paul speaks about unity in verses 5 and 6. How can the Word of God unite us?

It is not just a group of people with shared beliefs, but it is the Holy Spirit calling the church together through the Word.

3) Read Romans 15:14-16.

Paul seems pretty confident that the church is growing and making progress against the sinful nature. Why is he so confident?

He had written them letters and preached the Gospel. He had given them the Word, and so he knew the Word and the Spirit were working.

(Once again, much of this Bible Study was developed from John T. Pless, Word God Speaks to Us, Lutheran Spirituality Series, Concordia Publishing House: St. Louis (2006).)

Please post any questions or comments below.

Leaning on the Word of God in Challenging Times - Part 3

2009-01-29T13:06:00.005-05:00

This will be the second and final part of our study on the Word of God and the Spirit. We talked about the relationship of the Spirit and God's Word in general last week. Now we will get a little more specific and talk about how the Spirit relates to the Word in its three forms.

1) Written Word of God

How does the Bible help you to grow in your faith? Can you think of a time when you were troubled and opened up the Bible, and found something that spoke to you?

This kind of thing happens in the written word all of the time, whether it helps us emotionally or not. The Holy Spirit is always working through the Words that come to us from the written page.

If he is always working than what is his goal? Read John 20:30-31 to find out.

2) Jesus also had the Holy Spirit, and it helped him in significant ways.

Read Acts 10:37-38 What was Jesus annointed with? How did this help him in his ministry?

Read John 6:63 The Spirit was not only present in his actions, but also in his ________

(Answer: Words!)

We don't typically think of the Holy Spirit and Christ. We don't see the Holy Spirit working through Christ as much as we ought to. (There is much more to say about this subject, but for now

What if you had the same Spirit?

3) You do have the same Spirit! Christ sends out his Holy Spirit to all believers. Therefore, we have the power to speak Spirit-filled words.

Through faith we are given the Holy Spirit, anf the ability to speak the Words of God. This comes in the form of proclaiming the Gospel to others, and assuring our brothers and sisters in Christ of their forgiveness and salvation. God speaks through you! Cool!

Read 1 Peter 5:9

Please Post any questions or comments below!

Leaning on the Word of God in Challenging Times- Part 2

2009-01-22T11:59:00.002-05:00

The Written Word (Bible), the Incarnate Word (Jesus), and the Spoken Word (Preaching) all receive their power from the Holy Spirit. For the next couple of weeks we will focus on the Spirit's work through the Word. This week's lesson focuses on the Holy Spirit's connection to the Word. We will look at how Satan will subtly try to twist God's Word until he can break us off from the Spirit's power. This will show us that without the Holy Spirit the Word will not be able to do its work. How comforting it is to know that God puts himself into his words, so that we know his promises are true! (This lesson like many others will draw heavily upon John T. Pless's book Word: God Speaks to Us in the Lutheran Spirituality Series [Concordia Publishing House: St. Louis, 2006].)

1) Read Hebrews 4:12-16

What does God's Word do? (Pless, 2006) Who makes the Word living and active?

Hebrews 4 gives us a powerful reminder that it is God's Word that judges us. We do not judge God's Word. We live in light of the Word, because God has given it to us and we are to revere it by keeping it in its pure form. In that form, the Holy Spirit makes it living and active. The Holy Spirit gives it life so that it can call us back to God, forgive our sins, strengthen our faith, and give us eternal life.

2) Read Genesis 3:1 (Pless, 2006)

Notice how Satan is trying to twist God's Words. Adam and Eve rejected the Holy Spirit when they wanted be like God. Have you ever been tempted like this? Have you ever wondered if God really meant what he said? This is Satan and our sinful nature trying to cut us off from the Spirit in God's Word. In these times we have a Savior who has been tempted in every way, just as we are tempted. When you start to question cry out to God for help! Thank God that Christ has conquered Satan and the sinful nature so that we can be forgiven for the times when we pull ourselves away.

3) Read Matthew 4:1-17 (Pless, 2006)

Satan is using the same strategy that he used against Adam and Eve. How does Jesus defend himself against these temptations?

What does this tell you about God's Word?

God has given his children a powerful weapon. The Holy Spirit brings us under God's Word. This Word becomes a shelter against Satan's attacks. The Spirit uses these words to repel even the strongest pitfalls. Satan and the sinful nature aren't strong enough to separate God's Word from the Holy Spirit.

4) Is it possible to have the Word without the Spirit? (Pless, 2006)

No, if you lose one you lose them both. You cannot obey God on your own, and you cannot sanctify yourself. God has graciously given us both his Word and his Spirit in the fullest measure to redeem us, and sanctify his church.

Leaning on the Word of God in Challenging Times- Part 1

2009-01-15T10:32:00.002-05:00

Welcome back! Now that we are finished with Thessalonians it is time for something new! This Bible Study will focus on the value of the Word of God in the life of a Christian. We will look for ways to develop a consistent approach to personal devotions. Also, we will search God's Word for the comfort of the Gospel. This will lead us to look at how we need to apply both Law and Gospel, we will look at biblical examples of the faithful in difficult times, and how the Spirit builds up our faith through the Word. These are just a few of the topics we will study! We will rely heavily upon a Bible study from the Lutheran Spirituality Series called Word: God Speaks to Us by John T. Pless. (Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis: 2006)

First we will look at how God is speaking to us. Then we will examine the importance of God's Word to believers.

There are times when the church seems to have its own language. For example, we use the phrase "The Word of God" or the "Word", but what is it? What is the Word of God? How would you describe it to someone who did not know?

The Word of God is simply what God says to us in order that we would be saved. Typically, the Word of God is broken up into three categories: the written word (the Bible), the Word Incarnate (Jesus), and the spoken Word (preaching).

Read 2 Timothy 3:15-16- What are some uses for the Written Word of God? How has the written Word affected your own life?

Jesus is the Word Incarnate, because he fulfilled everything that was prophesied about him in the flesh. Also, he came to earth full of grace and truth proclaiming the gospel, and did nothing but his Father's will. Read Luke 24: 25-27- On the "Road to Emmaus" Jesus, the Word Incarnate, told the disciples about how he was the fulfillment of prophecy. Many Christians are envious of the disciples, but where do we encounter the Word of God in the flesh? We encounter it at the Lord's Supper, and when we hear preaching that proclaims Christ as the fulfillment of prophesy, and salvation.

Consider the Spoken Word. Usually, we think of Pastors in the pulpit giving their sermons. Jesus has commissioned Pastors to faithfully preach the Word of God. However, he has also given responsibility to every believer to tell the world about the forgiveness of sins, the law, and the work that he has done. Read John 17:13-19- How have you used your authority to speak the Word of God to others?

2. God is still speaking through the Written Word, the Word Incarnate, and the Spoken Word. What things get in your way of hearing God's Word? (Pless 2006, 7) What can you do to avoid those things?

3. Think about how you have grown in your faith since you were baptized. Can you name at least one way that each category of the Word of God has helped you? (i.e. How has the Written Word helped you grow?, How has the Word Incarnate…) Look back to 2 Timothy 3:15-16 if you need a little direction.

Every week I will post a spiritual exercise that might help you in your devotional life. This one comes from Word: God Speaks to Us by John T. Pless. Pray Psalm 119:33-40. By praying this psalm you will be asking God to instruct you in his Word, and to confirm his promises.

Please post any comments or questions below!

Council Meeting December 8

2009-01-09T09:00:00.001-05:00

MT. OLIVE COUNSEL MEETING
12/21/08

IN ATTENDANCE: Matt McCauley, Debra McCauley, Rex Pagani, Vicar Zach,
Janet Frisch, John Musser, Steve Peterson, Pastor Pingel, Bob
Trimble, Patty Dauer, Kathy Brown, Scott Rodenbeck, Ann
Emge, and Marilyn Huber

1) Matt and Debra McCauley reviewed social events for ’09. 1/24/09 @ 5PM will be the Chili cook-off. 3/25/09 is the wine tasting event. 5/31/09 is the 2nd annual Ice Cream Social event. Sometime in 09/09, they want to plan a tail gate party in the church parking lot for a Steelers game. They are looking for help to plan the Octoberfest this year.
2) Bob Trimble continues working of the Stewardship program. He believes they are more than ½ ways done.
3) Patty Dauer reported the Evangelism committee visited 3 Nursing Homes in Beaver County. They went the Friendship Ridge, Franciscan Manor and Elmcrest and felt they were very well received. They entertained the residents with singing and visiting.
4) Steve Peterson reports the last Elder’s meeting was 12/10/08 and discussion surrounded the dismissal of the Vicar program for a couple of years and how helpful the program has been to us. The LCDF fund will provide $7,000.00 to help pay off the past 3 months of bills. He past out copies of the 08-09 Budget to the Committee that was already approved by the Elders. Pastor turned down a raise. Instead, the church will match his retirement fund. The ’09 budget reflects a $12,000.00 savings from this year.
5) Ann Emge announced the teachers received their gifts today.
6) Scott Rodenbeck confirmed the Stewardship program is ongoing.
7) Kathy Brown discussed MOPS events. They will have the Ladies Tea party the 1st Sat. in May. There is a Craft & Hostess fair later in 1/09. They continue fund raising for their yearly convention. They are planning to start a Night time MOPS program in ’09.
8) Vicar Zach is looking into developing a Calendar of Events for the whole year to post so non-members attending church will know when events are upcoming.
9) Janet Frisch discussed work with the Publicity committee and ways to increase the hall rental and using photos to promote the hall. Posters will be put into store front businesses.
10) Pastor Pingle mentioned that Deb Leveto continues to work on the Transitional Kindergarten program. Also, plans are in the works for the Youth Group to hold a servant event at our church in July.

2 Thessalonians Week 15

2009-01-02T13:03:00.002-05:00

We will pick up where we left off a few weeks ago in 2 Thessalonians. Our discussion will be based on the third and final chapter, after this week we will begin a new Bible Study. Chapter 3 is about Christian Discipline. This can be a very difficult topic as we ask how can we love our brothers, but still apply discipline. Yet, Paul offers us some guidance on this topic.

1) Read 2 Thessalonians 3:6-10

Why did Paul work so hard to provide for himself when he was with the Thessalonians?

How can your quality of work and attitude be a witness toward others?

Paul tells warns us to avoid the brothers who ingore his teaching. Why should we avoid those in the church who ingore the Word of God?

2) Read 2 Thessalonians 3:11-13

Giving glory to God does not always come in the form of formal worship with preaching, and hymns on Sunday mornings. (While formal worship where the means of grace are given is necessary for every believer.) We can glorify our God by providing for our families, and waking up every morning and going to work. So while you have been grinding out day after day, you have served others and have not wasted your time being idle. Did you know that you were glorifying God all along?

3) Read 2 Thessalonians chapter 3:14-15

Consider this scenario: What if a member of this church had a drinking problem, but they attended church faithfully? This person has been confronted by some members of the church, and he has confessed his sins. He seemed sincere in trying to stop drinking, but he continues to go out. He is struggling with a severe addiction. He is in a position of responsibility, and his family has attended for generations.

How would you apply church discipline in this situation?

How would you treat this person as a brother in Christ? The truth is church discipline is hardly ever a cut and dry issue. We need to approach our brothers and sisters in Christ knowing that we are all vulnerable to sin. However, we need to remind them that Christ would not have us continue in our old ways. We should repent and recieve his abundant forgiveness, but seek help and put all other responsibilities in the church on hold. The sin of one person can do great damage to the rest of the church. That brother should adress his problems, and then return giving glory to God for his healing and forgiveness.

4) Read 2 Thessalonians 3:16-18

After dealing with many disturbing issues: persecution, the Anti-Christ, and church discipline; Paul blesses the congregation with peace. What disturbs you? What has you unnerved? It is in those areas that Christ has come to give you peace.

We have come to the end!

Thank you for following this blog on 1 and 2 Thessalonians.

"Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you." 2 Thessalonians 3:16

2 Thessalonians Week 14

2008-12-18T10:30:00.003-05:00

Earlier this week I was swept up in the Christmas spirit. I watched the Muppets Christmas Carol, and then the Muppets Christmas special that aired last night. So in order to avoid a visit from "Marley and Marley" or any other Christmas ghosts we will detour from 2 Thessalonians to Luke 2. If we embrace the Christmas season this week, it might be just enough to take me off Santa's naughty list. Let's take a look at our Savior's birth, and keep our fingers crossed for that "Red Ryder BB Gun".

Luke 2:1-20

1) Read Luke 2:1-5

Our government has proven to be full of corruption. (see Governor of Illinois) So was Rome. It seems that our government is not always supportive of Christianity. Rome certainly wasn't supportive. Some would look at this and say God has left this nation. Look at Rome. Rome was corrupt, and against Christianity from the very start. However, God was still there. See how he uses governments to fulfill his will. The census in Luke 2 fulfilled the prophecy that Christ would be born in Bethlehem. (Micah 5:2-5) God is at work everywhere, and he will never leave us.

Look at 2 Samuel 7:12-13, how has God fulfilled his promise to David in Luke 2?

2) Read Luke 2:6-7

We now hear of how Jesus birth came to pass. Luke only dedicates two verses to his birth, which seems a little understated. "Jesus was born in a manger... moving on!" Obviously his birth was humble, and even understated for a King. Take a second to think about the verses you just read. What has stopped you from greeting your humble king this Christmas? Are the things that keep you busy this season really more important than what is written in these two verses?

Moving on!

3) Read Luke 2:8-20

Typically you will hear sermons about how lowly the Shepherds were. Indeed, they had a very low status in society. Some of us are rich, and some of us are poor; however, none of us are shepherds. Do you relate more with the Shepherds or the wealthy and wise Magi?

Regardless, both bow before the infant. The Kingdom of God has that effect on us. It makes the lowly high, and the high lowly. Whether you need to be lifted up or brought down the Kingdom of God bring us to the same place no matter where we start from- to the feet of the king.

The Shepherds first responded to the angels in fear. Then they were filled with joy. What transformed them from fear to joy?

Are you afraid this season? Do you have an overwhelming amount of worries? Hear the Gospel, and let the conquerer Jesus Christ rescue you from fear, and bring you into the joy of his kingdom.

Merry Christmas! Post any comments or good tidings of great joy below!

2 Thessalonians Week 13

2008-12-11T11:45:00.002-05:00

We are continuing our discussion of the Antichrist this week.

1) Check out the wikipedia article on the "Antichrist".

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antichrist

Christians throughout history have spent much of their effort on trying to identify the Antichrist. How would the church benefit if we knew the identity of the Antichrist?

Is it crucial for Christians to know who the identity of theAntichrist? Even if we never figure out for sure who the Antichirst is, we can still follow the one TRUE Christ.

2) Read 2 Thessalonians 2:8-10.

Satan will use his power to support the Antichrist. There will be miracles, and false teachers that will decieve many. What can we use to test the miracles and teachings of the Antichrist? Maybe another way to ask this question is: what do we trust in above miraculous signs, and human teachings?

It is the Word of God, living and active and sharper than any double edged sword. The Word of God will cut through the lies of Satan.

3) Read 2 Thessalonians 2:11-12

Jesus will come in glory and overthrow this villian with the breath of his mouth. In other words, the glory of God will outshine the best attempts of Satan.

Consider this: When Jesus was born in the flesh it was part of the most humble expression God could make to man. Satan, on the other hand, will raise a glorious Antichrist. Isn't it interesting that God can use his most humble effort to overthrow Satan's best?

2008-12-10T11:23:00.000-05:00

MT. OLIVE COUNSEL MEETING
11/16/08

IN ATTENDANCE: Debra McCauley, Matt McCauley, Janet Frisch, Patty Davies, Ann
Emge, Rex Pagani, Kathy Brown, John Musser, Steve Peterson,
Marilyn Huber, Pastor Pingel, and Vicar Hoffman.

1) Ann Emge discussed some projects from the Education Team, which include: Sunday School snacks, the Children’s Program for the Christmas Party dinner and Movie Day on 12/23.
2) Patty Davies informed the Coat Drive was very successful with over 100 coats given away when members of the community came to our hall for coffee and donuts. 30 more were sent to the soup kitchen at Christ Lutheran in Beaver Falls. The Christian Alliance church will take the remainder for their Christmas dinner.
3) Kathy Brown informed that Julie Quay is the new Mentor Mom with MOPS.
On 1/31/09 they are planning a Crafts & Hostess Fair at the church as a fundraiser. Also, the Women’s Shelter has supplied us with tear off sheets with their phone # for any woman who may be in need of their help. These will be placed in the women’s bathrooms.
4) Steve Peterson reports the Stewardship meetings are ongoing. Also, Sherri Ludig did an immaculate audit of the church finances. A report is forthcoming.
5) Matt and Debra are planning the annual Chilli dinner for 1/24/09.
6) Vicar will be hosting the male jr.youth at this home, while his wife takes the female jr. youth out to the movies and dinner.
7) Janet Frisch voiced the need for more Telecare callers.
8) Rex Pagani announced the upcoming Marriage Encounter weekend will be rescheduled for another time, as no one signed up. It’s thought that this might just be a bad time of the year for such an event.
9) Pastor reported the Vicar’s roof is fully repaired. Also, Church Mutual is our new insurance company for all areas of the church. Pastor thanked all committees for all of the good teamwork. His new office is done and he is grateful and enjoying it. The Youth group is planning on hosting a servant event here…………more details to come. Pastor also informed counsel that he is performing appx. 7 hrs. a week in volunteer work as a mobile therapist for Northwestern Human Services.

Evangelism Board Calendar

2008-12-08T10:31:00.003-05:00

Hello everyone,

The Evangelism Board is putting together one calendar- an activities calendar, where members and especially visitors can see what is going on within our church from month to month. This might help to peak the interest of those who come in who are unfamiliar with everything that happens here. It could also help to cultivate a stronger connection to the church. For example, if someone who is a member of MOPS sees that there is a Chilifest here in January; she might want to come to that event. There are many who come through our doors on a weekly basis, but they may not belong to another church or even know Christ. Connecting these people to the other activities that go on here can create opportunities for us to share the gospel!

If you are a member of a board, or if you are in charge of an event email me at hoffmanz@csl.edu and we will put it on our calendar, so that it can be seen by others.

2 Thessalonians Week 13

2008-12-04T13:31:00.003-05:00

Has he arrived? How many will he led astray? When will Christ overthrow him?

It's time to study the Antichrist. 2 Thessalonians chapter 2 discusses in some detail the Antichrist. Let's see what Paul has to say about him.

1)What frightens you about the coming of the Antichrist?

Read 2 Thessalonians 2:1-4 Notice that the Thessalonians were also disturbed and alarmed by the thought of the Antichrist. Take a minute to search the word "Antichrist" with Google or Yahoo. Look at how many theories there are that claim to know the identity of the Antichrist. Why are so many alarmed at the coming of the Antichrist?

John 10:27-28 "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand." Know that Jesus holds you in his firm grip, and you cannot be pulled away by the Antichrist if you trust in Christ.

2) Verse 4 says that the Antichrist will exalt himself over God. He will glorify himself, but think on how Christ came in humility. Christ did not come to seek his own glory, but he glorified his Father in heaven. When we seek to glorify ourselves who are we taking glory from?

3) 1 John 2:18 says: "Dear children, this is the last hour; and as you have heard that the antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come. This is how we know it is the last hour." There is a difference between THE Antichrist, and other antichrists. The term "antichrist" with a lower case "a" refers to everyone who has opposed Christ and his teachings. There are many of those who exist today, and there were many causing trouble for the early church too.

The Antichrist refers to a specific figure who will oppose Christ, and bring about God's judgement. He will decieve many, and this figure will do dramatic damage to the church and world.

There are countless antichrists and one fearsome Antichrist. Even still, Jesus will over come all of them with the breath of his mouth. Take some time to consider the true Christ who can destroy all of our enemies with the breath of his mouth. He won't even need to lift a finger to banish the many attacks Satan will throw at the church. The Antichrist will be Satan's best work, but Jesus has already won the victory over Satan and his minions.

We will continue with this topic next week. Please post your comments by clicking on the bottom right corner of this post.

2 Thessalonians Week 12

2008-11-26T11:44:00.002-05:00

Hey everyone, it's a new book of scripture! We are starting 1 Thessalonians. Our study will lead us to cover three main topics: persecution, the Antichrist, and warnings against idleness. We have already covered some of this in detail, but 2 Thessalonians gives us a new angle on our material.

1) 2 Thessalonians 1:4 "Therefore, among God's churches we boast about your perseverance and faith in all the persecutions and trials you are enduring."

We are supposed to be humble...right? Should Paul really boast about a church?

He is not boasting about his work, but he is boasting about God's work. It is ok to brag about the work of God, because it isn't really bragging. God can back it up! When was the last time you boasted about God's work?

Read the article below, and if you are pressed for time just read the last couple of paragraphs:

http://ebarnabas.wordpress.com/2006/08/07/where-your-boast-is-there-your-heart-is/

2) Read 2 Theassalonians 1:6-7 "God is just: he will pay back trouble to those who trouble you and give relief to those who are troubled, and to us as well."

How do you think the Thessalonians dealt with the temptation to lash out against their persecutors?

Romans 12:19 "Do not take revenge my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: 'It is mine to avenge; I will repay' says the Lord."

How can god help us to control our personal need for revenge?

3) Read 2 Thessalonians 1:11 "With this in mind we constantly pray for you, that our God may count you worthy of his calling, and that by his power he may fulfill every good purpose of yours and every act prompted by your faith."

We struggle against our sinful nature, and our own flaws to be counted worthy of God's calling. Can you think of any areas in your life where you could use God's help to improve, and fulfill your calling?

When you pray for God's help to fulfill your calling you pray that his Kingdom would come. Hearwhat Luther says in the small Catechism:

"God's kingdom comes when our heavenly Father gives us His Holy Spirit, so that by his grace we believe his holy Word and lead godly lives here in time and in eternity."

Luther's Small Catechism with Explanation, "Lord's Prayer", St. Louis: Concordia Publishing House (1986).

1 Thessalonians Week 11

2008-11-20T13:59:00.003-05:00

We have come to the end! This is the last week for 1 Thessalonians, next week we will dig into 2 Thessalonians. I hope you continue to follow us as we begin a new section of scripture. Until, then let's wrap up 1 Thessalonians 5.

1) Read 1 Thessalonians 5:1-8

Since we know by faith that Christ will certainly come, we will not be surprised by the way that he comes (as a thief in the night). However, we might be surprised when he comes.

Paul is encouraging us to stay alert for Jesus return. Saying that we need to be ready 24/7. How can we stay alert and watchful for Christ's return all of the time?

Verse 8 gives us a good start. In part, we can stay ready by putting on the armor of faith, hope, and love. How can putting on the armor of faith, hope, and love strenghten us until the Last Day?

How does the armor of God protect us?

2) Read 1 Thessalonians 5:9-15

"Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you.13Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other."

I posted sometime ago on the topic of Pastors. We learned how Pastors serve their congregations. How can a congregation serve and respect its pastor?

That brothers and sisters in Christ would live in unity was always one of Paul's biggest hopes for the church. How does living in peace with those who have been called as pastors help the church live in peace?

3) Read 1 Thessalonians 5:28

Compare this with 1 Thessalonians 1:1.

Paul uses almost the same words to open his letter. This is because Paul wanted his reader to see grace from end to end. The grace of Jesus Christ should pour out from all of our words. Whether we are instructing, critiquing, encouraging, or just chit chatting with our neighbors. This grace should be behind everything we say.

Does the grace of God pour out from your lips in your everyday conversations?

1 Thessalonians Week 10

2008-11-13T12:37:00.002-05:00

It's the end of the world! Well.. that is what we are talking about this week anyway. On Sunday, I will come out of my bunker to teach about the Second Coming.

Paul concludes chapter 4 and begins chapter 5 with this subject. He does this only after talking about how to live for Christ before he returns. I hope that you will see the connection between the The Second Coming and how we live today.

1) Read 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Thessalonians%204:13-18;&version=31;

What do you look forward to most in the Second Coming? For many, it is the reunion with the dead. 1 Thessalonians tells us that every one of the faithful will be accounted for. What a day that will be! However, we will also be reunited with the Lord, who we have only been able to touch and see in the Lord's Supper and the other means of grace. What will it mean for you to be reunited with Jesus Christ?

2) Read 1 Thessalonians 5:1-3

The term "like a thief in the night" is thrown around a lot when we talk about the nature of Jesus return. Paul uses these images to warn of the judgement that is to come. He did not want the church to become lax. What is the danger in forgetting that Jesus will come at an unknown time like a thief in the night?

The video below connects the term "like a thief in the night" to several disasters, including September 11th. Watch how the narrator makes this connection. Is it good to connect these disasters to specific verses in the Bible? Is this how we should reach out to the unchurched about the last day?

The Bible does say that there will be natural disasters and wars, and they will be signs that mark the end. It does not say which ones will mark the end! One the one hand every disaster should remind of us the end and the effects of sin in the world, but we cannot use these disasters to pinpoint Jesus' return. The Bible does not give specifics about them.

Since we live in the time of grace, God no longer deals with us out of his wrath. Jesus has taken on the fullness of God's punishment. Therefore, since we live in grace, we should reach out to the unchurched with grace. Instead, of using scare tactics about God's judgement; we should approach them with the promise of the Gospel. Point them to the end of suffering, the end of spiritual struggle, and the reunion with the dead. Let them know that God wants to save them on the last day. By faith they can take hold of these promises.

3) When Jesus returns we will be given new bodies. What does 1 Corinthians 15:42-44 tell us about our new bodies?

1 Thessalonians Week 9

2008-11-06T14:33:00.003-05:00

The Sunday class is a little behind from last week. Instead of beginning our topic on the Second Coming of Jesus. We will continue with the topic of holy living.

1) We are saved by grace, not by obedience to the law. Are the Ten Commandments still important to Christians?

The answer is pretty simple. If a Christian is confused about how to live a life that pleases God, but they are not sure how; point them to the commandments. While we do not depend on obedience for salvation, the law still shows us our sin, and guides us in how to live. Not to mention that there are many other common sense benefits. (i.e. not murdering people is great for society.)

How would you teach the Ten Commandments to your children?

2) How does Jesus help us to live a holy life?

http://heaintthroughwithmeyet.wordpress.com/2007/03/04/be-imitators-of-christ/

1 Thessalonians 1:5 mentions imitating Christ. After reading the devotion from the link above; how can imitating Christ help you live in a God-pleasing way?

3) In the last post, I posted a link on sanctification. Sanctification on a personal level, is the Holy Spirit bringing you to recieve God's grace, and empowering and guiding you to serve Christ.

Some denominations say that in order to prove that you have the holy Spirit you need to speak in tongues, or preform other miracles. How is that different from what we, as Lutherans, believe about the work of the Holy Spirit?

Read the story below:

http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2007-05-23-tongues-brain_N.htm

Lutherans are cautious about speaking in tongues. It does not show that you are more sanctified than anyone else. It is not necessary to prove that you have the Holy Spirit, and it may not be edifying to the entire church. The article above showed the confusion that can be caused by putting a heavy emphasis on speaking in tongues over all of the other spiritual gifts.

Paul speaks clearly on this in 1 Corinthians 12 posted below:

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?book_id=53&chapter=12&version=31

The Holy Spirit helps us to overcome sin and the devil, as well as, giving us gifts to serve the Church. These gifts do not have to be spectacular or miraculous. They can be ordinary and everday things that do tremendous good.

What gifts do you have?

Marriage Weekend Information

2008-11-04T12:40:00.002-05:00

Mt. Olive Lutheran Church in Chippewa Township will host a 2-day Marriage Enrichment Weekend for couples on November 21 from 6 to 8 p.m. and November 22 from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. This program will take place at our church located at 2679 Darlington Road, Beaver Falls, PA 15010

The program is designed to enhance the viability and health of marriages through the refinement of skills that sustain, improve and enrich relationships.

A trained facilitator will guide couples through a series of fun-filled activities and topics. A curriculum titled "Prepare and Enrich" will provide the framework. Topics such as: the effects of our family of origin; communication; conflict resolution; finance and goal setting and emotional and physical intimacy will be covered.

1 Thessalonians Week 8

2008-10-30T11:14:00.002-04:00

We are now moving past the subject of persecution and into "Holy Living" as Paul describes it in chapter 4.

1) At the end of Chapter 3 Paul prayed that the Thessalonians would be able to lead a pure life. Now Paul gives them more instructions on how to do so.

4:1-2 Finally, brothers, we instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more. For you know what instructions we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus.

After we come to faith in Christ, the Holy Spirit starts working in us to overcome sin and make us more like Christ. We are saved by God's grace alone, but the Holy Spirit leads us to live a better and more holy life. After we are saved by God's grace the rest of our lives are spent growing in faith and knowledge. This is called sanctification.

Paul urges them on in their sanctification to by telling them to live for God more and more.

Read this link for more on sanctification:

http://www.lcms.org/pages/internal.asp?NavID=2136

How has the Holy Spirit helped you in your struggle with sin, in your time of prayer, or any other part of your life as a Christian?

2) Read 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8 Paul condemns sexual impurity.

Sexual sin can trap us no matter where we are in our lives. As Christians we need to be on guard against this. Watch the video below, and see how Christ can help us to overcome and how his forgiveness can heal us.

3) In the next section, 1 Thessalonians 4:9-12, Paul warns against gossiping. Then he encourages every one to live quiet and humble lives.

How can gossip hurt you at home, work, school, or any other place?

What are some good ways to avoid gossip?

1 and 2 Thessalonians Week 7

2008-10-23T14:22:00.004-04:00

Persecution continues! (At least our study of persecution does.) Next week, we will discuss holy living.

1) In chapter 3 Paul mentioned that he sent Timothy to the Thessalonians to strenghten and encourage them in the faith. Paul was delighted to hear that the church in Thessalonica was thriving.

Let's take a moment to get to know Timothy:
-Timothy was the son of a Greek father, and Jewish mother.
-Timothy was converted while Paul was in Lystra.
-Timothy was circumcised by Paul in order to overcome barriers to his ministry to the Jews
-Timothy became Paul's "right hand man".
-Paul wrote 1 and 2 Timothy to...well...Timothy.

2)Timothy was sent to encourage the Thessalonians in their time of persecution. Is there anything that we could do to strengthen other Christians who are being persecuted?

Read the article below. It is from "The Voice of the Martyrs" website, and it describes their goals for a national day of prayer.

http://www.persecution.com/topStory_IDOP2008.html

What do you think of this?

3) Read 1 Thessalonians 3:6-13

In verse 13 Paul wrote that it is important to be found blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. Why is it important to be blameless if we are saved by faith alone?

First he prays that God would strengthen their hearts. He puts the emphasis on God making them holy. He is not implying that they can make themselves holy and blameless. He petitions God to purify their hearts for them.

The heart is where all of our motivations come from. If our hearts are filled with love we will serve others joyfully, and we will be blameless.

Please post any questions or comments below or you can email me @ hoffmanz@csl.edu

(I have been having problems with my other email address.)

1 and 2 Thessalonians Week 6

2008-10-16T11:07:00.003-04:00

We are going to continue our study of persecution. The Sunday School class is a little behind where we are in the blog, so this week will not have as much material to allow the class to catch up.

1) Read 1 Thess. 2:13-16

13And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is at work in you who believe. 14For you, brothers, became imitators of God's churches in Judea, which are in Christ Jesus: You suffered from your own countrymen the same things those churches suffered from the Jews, 15who killed the Lord Jesus and the prophets and also drove us out. They displease God and are hostile to all men 16in their effort to keep us from speaking to the Gentiles so that they may be saved. In this way they always heap up their sins to the limit. The wrath of God has come upon them at last.

Paul writes about the persecution Christ and other prophets suffered. The Bible seems to show us a pattern in Acts that the apostles suffered. First they were threatened and arrested. Then they were flogged. Next, a few were murdered. Finally, it reached a full scale persecution of everyone. This happened in for the first Christians in Judea, now it was happening in Thessalonica. (Kuske, Thessalonians, Northwestern Publishing House, pg. 27.)

What would you do if you saw this pattern developing in our society?

2) How were the persecutors "heaping their sins up to the limit"?

There is a warning for all of us in Paul's words. We must take God and his Word seriously and reverently or else we will eventually despise God. Then we will be no better than the 1st Century Jewish leaders who persecuted the faithful.

Read the story from foxnews.com:

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,408782,00.html

Are movies like this a form of persecution? Do you see any other forms of persecution in America?

3) Read 1 Thess. 3:5

For this reason, when I could stand it no longer, I sent Timothy to find out about your faith. I was afraid that in some way the tempter might have tempted you and our efforts might have been useless.

In what ways would Satan use persecution to cause Christains to fall from faith?

How are we preotected form Satan? (Hint: B_ptism)

You guessed it! In our baptism we are rescued from the devil, and made to be children of God! While we may suffer for our faith, we know that our problems are only temporary.

John 10:27-29

27My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. 29My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. 30I and the Father are one."

CLICK ON THE LINK FOR COMMENTS BELOW TO POST ON THIS BLOG. YOU CAN ALSO EMAIL ME: vicar@mtolivechurch.net!

Coat Drive

2008-10-13T10:55:00.003-04:00

Hello Everyone,

So far the coat drive is going well. (This morning someone dropped off 25 coats!) However, we still have a long way to go. If you have any coats please bring them in. There are many who cannot afford a coat; or atleast, it would be a big help to them if they did not have to worry about finding a coat. We will take whatever size or shape of coat that is new or gently used.

Thank you for those who have brought in coats or who have helped in other ways. You have done a lot to provide for those who are in need!

The drive will continue through Friday 17th. If you haven't dug through your closet for a coat please do so. If you haven't told a friend about the coat drive please do so. Let's keep going to help as many as we can with a coat, and the gospel!

1 and 2 Thessalonians Week 5

2008-10-09T09:12:00.003-04:00

This week we are finishing up the topic of pastors in chapter 2 and moving on to the topic of persecution!

In the last post we learned how Paul was a humble, but also bold pastor; claiming he was entrusted with the Gospel. He also treated the Thessalonians with the love that a parent would have for his children. Sunday, we will continue that theme of parental care, and move on to a couple of other characteristics. After that, it will be time for persecution!

1) Read chapter 2:8-12:

We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us. Surely you remember, brothers, our toil and hardship; we worked night and day in order not to be a burden to anyone while we preached the gospel of God to you.
You are witnesses, and so is God, of how holy, righteous and blameless we were among you who believed. For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory.

How does Paul show concern for the Thessalonians?

Paul says that he dealt with the Thessalonians as a father deals with his own children- Do you have anyone who has been a father to you in regard to your faith?

2) The first paragraph in the italicized section above describe Paul as hardworking and self-sacrificing. Paul was a tent maker by trade. He probably served as a missionary/ pastor during the day, and made tents at night.

What does this say about Paul's dedication to the Thessalonians?

What sacrifices can you make to spend more time serving God?

The link below shows us a humorous poster about sacrifice, but there is a point to it.

http://images.despair.com/products/demotivators/sacrifice.jpg

Paul did not always see the fruit of his efforts, and we might not either. Yet, God sees everything, and we know that he can do wonderful things through us. Plus, he gives us the Spirit to comfort us when it appears that our ministry is not getting a lot of results.

3) Persecution! In times of persecution Christians have clung to God's Word. Read 1 Thess 2:13-3:9

How would the Word of God help you if you were persecuted?

Below is a video from "Open Doors USA" I have never heard of this ministry before, but apparently they focus on sending aid to persecuted Christians. The video brings home a good point that there are many Christians who do suffer for their faith.

Please spend some time this week praying for your brothers and sisters in Christ who risk everything for their faith.

Please click on the bottom right to post any comments. You can post anonymously if you like! You can also email me at vicar@mtolivechurch.net!

1 and 2 Thessalonians Week 4

2008-10-02T10:27:00.003-04:00

We were only able to dip our toes into the topic of pastors in class last week. 1 Thessalonians 2 discusses in detail Paul's relationship to the church in Thessalonica as a pastor.

This week we will go more in depth into the characteristics of a pastor; as well as, how Paul's relationship with the Thessalonian church can encourage us to minister to others.

1) If you spread the Gospel you will almost inevitably encounter criticism. This will happen whether you are a pastor or a factory worker, secretary, manager, etc... Read the verses below from 1 Thessalonians 2:1-4:

You know, brothers, that our visit to you was not a failure. We had previously suffered and been insulted in Philippi, as you know, but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in spite of strong opposition. For the appeal we make does not spring from error or impure motives, nor are we trying to trick you. On the contrary, we speak as men approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please men but God, who tests our hearts.

How does Paul handle criticism of his ministry?

How would you handle someone who criticized your efforts to share the Word of God with others?

Click on the link below and read te article about handling criticism in ministry. It is aimed at youth ministers, but the principles apply to everyone.

http://timschmoyer.com/2008/09/23/dealing-with-criticism-in-youth-ministry/

How does this article change your approach to criticism?

2) Read verse 4 again:

On the contrary, we speak as men approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please men but God, who tests our hearts.

Paul claims a sacred trust with the Gospel. How would you describe this sacred trust? (Read Galatians 1:11-16)

Do Pastors today still have a sacred trust with the Word of God?

3) Read 1 Thessalonians 2:6b-9

As apostles of Christ we could have been a burden to you, but we were gentle among you, like a mother caring for her little children. We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us. Surely you remember, brothers, our toil and hardship; we worked night and day in order not to be a burden to anyone while we preached the gospel of God to you.

Paul had to work very hard for his churches, just as Pastors today have a much to do.

How has a Pastor's work impacted your life?

What is a Pastor's chief responsibility?

Read the article below from lcms.org on pastors:

http://www.lcms.org/graphics/assets/media/LCMS/wa_pastors.pdf

Why do we need Pastors in the church?

Please Post any comments or questions. I am excited to hear what you think!

***If you have a question, but would rather not post you can email me at: vicar@mtolivechurch.net. ***

Financial Information

2008-09-29T11:59:00.002-04:00

Treasurer of Mt. Olive Lutheran Church, Chris Schetka reports that:
Income to date = $218,739.66 and
Expenses to date = $251,375.92.

Council Meeting - September 21

2008-09-26T12:26:00.002-04:00

The Vicar opened with prayer.

Rex called the meeting to order by welcoming the new people at the meeting.

EVANGELISM - Parry Dauer reported that the current project is to collect winter coats and have people come and get them at the church. Evangelists from the church will go door to door to collect the coats and would like to get 200-250 coats. Collection will begin in October.

MOPS - Kathy Brown reported that since the meeting was canceled last week because of lack of electricity, they would meet Sept. 22. They had their first Sunday night meeting and it was very well attended. There are also six new members for the morning MOPS. They are having a Rummage and Bake sale on September 27 from 8 to 1. The Christmas Boutique will be held November 2.

ELDERS - Erik Vecere said that the plans are in the works for an every-member Personal Stewardship Interview starting with the elders and continuing with the boards. Erik presented to council for approval a Marriage Enrichment Class which is part of a program called Together Pittsburgh.

VICAR ZACH will take the Junior Youth to Cheeseman's Fright Farm and the Senior Youth had a great get-together at Pastor's house. The Youth Team will meet October 1st.

TRUSTEES - Rich Winkle has several projects that need immediate attention and that need to be addressed. The Vicar's porch roof is leaking and needs to be replaced. The parking lot needs to be recoated and lines painted (this could wait until Spring), Pastor's office needs to be finished, (Pastor could use the gift he received at his Anniversary Party to pay for materials but would prefer to use those monies for their intended purpose of furniture. Council approved $5,000 to be taken from the Building Fund for renovations and repairs. These will be made available to the treasurer to pay bills associated with these projects. Trustees are reviewing the congregation's insurance policies.

PASTOR - Pastor has had meetings with almost all the boards and is encouraged that everyone is getting things done.

Rex commented on the fact that Steve Dort was leaving and would be missed. The next meeting will be held October 19.

The meeting was closed with "The Lord's Prayer".

1 Thessalonians 1 and 2: Week 3

2008-09-25T12:54:00.002-04:00

This week we are tackling imitating Christ, spreading the Gospel, and beginning a discussion on Paul "the Pastor". We almost finished everything for last week's class, but we did not get to discuss the power of God's Word like we had planned. Therefore, we will begin this week's class with some housekeeping.

For anyone who is following this online, we will carry on with material from the end of 1 Thessalonians Chapter 1, and we will start chapter 2.

Imitating Christ:

Read 1 Thessalonians 1:6-10 below:

"6You became imitators of us and of the Lord; in spite of severe suffering, you welcomed the message with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. 7And so you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia. 8The Lord's message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia—your faith in God has become known everywhere. Therefore we do not need to say anything about it, 9for they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, 10and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead—Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath."

1) Check out the Q&A on imitation posted below. What does the word "imitation" mean to us? What did it mean to Paul?

http://theshovel.net/questions/dig.asp?TID=97

What are ways that you can imitate Christ?

Watch the video and answer the questions below it:

How did imitating Christ, help some of the people in Paraguay? How can it help others around us?

2) Read verse 8 again. Paul says that the message rang out from Thessalonica- kind of like a bell. Click on the link below to see a picture of sound waves:

http://www.tpub.com/neets/book10/NTX1-14.GIF

Notice how sound waves move out in all directions. How can we spread the Gospel in all directions, so that we ring out like a bell?

3) Chapter 2 covers many characteristics of a good pastor. Before you read 1 Thessalonians 2, think of what a pastor should be like. How is a pastor faithful to God's Word? In what ways should he serve the church? Etc...

4) Read 1 Thessalonians 2:1-2

1You know, brothers, that our visit to you was not a failure. 2We had previously suffered and been insulted in Philippi, as you know, but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in spite of strong opposition.

How does Paul handle criticism of his ministry?

AS ALWAYS, FEEL FREE TO POST ANY QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS. I WANT TO HEAR YOUR THOUGHTS!

From the Pastor - October 2008

2008-09-23T11:28:00.002-04:00

"The Most Expensive Words in the World"
Grace, mercy and peace...
What are the most expensive words? Perhaps the most expensive words come in twos: try these on for size - "interest rates"; "new house"; "new car"; "food bills". Maybe some combinations of threes have that expensive ring to them as well: "Broken Fuel Pump"; "Cost of Living". How abou the friend who comes in bearing the keys to your car and says, "I had a little accident." Are those the most expensive words?
Depending upon your experiences in life, opinions will vary as to what the most expensive words in life are. But there really is no question as to what the most expensive words in the world are. Jesus Christ gives us the answer: The most expensive words in the world are these: "I Love You." That's because they always cost something of the one who bears them sincerely. Jesus declares that even as God has made these words expensive, valuable and meaningful in a world which tries its best to make them cheap and meaningless, we are to do likewise in our lives. He does so within the framework of these words. "This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. This I command you, to love one another."
Love. Why? The word "Love" is everywhere. 98 percent of popular music speaks of love. Love is a common theme of TV and theatre. Our children are taught "love thy neighbor" as a golden rule. We swoon over novels about "lovers." We choke up at the idea of "true love". we associate words like "forever" automatically with it. Thousands cried their eyes out when a popular movie stated "Love means never having to say you're sorry." Government and religious groups sponsor commercials urging you to "love others" despite race and social class. Why, love and loving suggestions are all around us. If this world has created a god out of an ideal, that ideal is love. Yet we have trouble pinning down what exactly love is.
Dare we question our society's love diety? Perhaps the world has cheapened the words "I Love You!" rendering them meaningless, dragging them through the dust of superficiality so often that we don't know what they mean anymore. They've become little more than some abstraction. Too often we have seen these words become "a lot of talk." we've seen them turned on and off at whim. We've seen them used cheaply to secure favors, sexual and otherwise; used as a means of self-betterment; used as a means to "get ahead" at the expense of another's emotions; used in an attempt to justify years of neglect; used to possess and direct. Perhaps the words "I Love You" have become cheap and have lost their value due to careless use.
What is love, anyway? The product of scattered brain cells which managed to evolve from the earth? Is "love" a freak - a by-product of an accidentally higher form of animal life?
See, the world apart from God has no real definition for love. Apart from God, love becomes a cruel hoax. It goes to dust with our bodies. And the person who shows love winds up with the same reward as he who had none: a casket probably in the mid-price range, the common anonymity of death. Love becomes a relative term - you practice it (whatever you think it is) if and when you fell like it.
It's one thing to know about love; to KNOW love is another thing. It is one thing to know about God; to KNOW God is another thing. John says: "he who does not love, does not know God; for God is love."
God in Christ Jesus makes the words "I Love You" expensive and meaningful once more. He made them meaningful by sending His Son, a son who enabled him to forgive and forget our sinful lack of love. Through His Son he showed his tender, sympathizing nature. We were slaves to stree, strife, anxiety, doubt, fear, defeat, pointless existence - and he laid down his life for our release. There's is the cost! He made the words "I Love You" meaningful by making us his friends. In your baptism, Jesus introduces you to the Father, saying: Father, these are my friends - Rich, John, Mary, Lois, Sue etc... I love them and gave my life for them.
" I Love You." These words have meaning once more because Jesus gives his love as a dwelling place. It's the very air that we breathe in life -- his care, concern, forgiveness, support, nurturing. We walk in it, we move in it. And it's an expensive commodity indeed. It cost Him His life.
This isn't designed to give you a definition of love. No blog can accomplish that. But one thing is clear: You show me a picture of Jesus, his life, death and resurrection - and I'll show you a picture of what "Love" is all about.
In Greenville, S.C. there is a memorial to a pilot, the only American killed during the Cuban missile crisis. The inscription reads, "Greater love hath no man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." The cross isn't just a monument, it stands for a Saviour who lived up to the supreme ideal of love and yet still lives! " I have loved you with an everlasting love."
Don't you see? We have a friend, a beautiful loving friend, who has worked it out for us to be God's friends. Loving friendship means a willingness to spend ones self for another. Jesus made you God's friend, spent his life for you - and in doing so, gave the words "I Love You" new meaning. Greater love hath no man than this - that he lay down his life for his friends."
Jesus said these things, but they are hard words to hear. After all, you may say, life isn't that simple. Yet the simple truth of the faith is this: You're called to make these words expensive and meaningful in your lives as well.
Jesus says: "I choose you." You are chosen to love. Christ chose you by dying for you on the cross. How have you responded to that love? You are chosen for a reason, chosen to love! Yet the way we live our lives often times makes it seem that we were chosen for some other purpose.
Wishing to receive the affection of his subjects Frederick the Great struck a subject with a whip one day and exclaimed: "Confound you, I want you to love me." We sometimes act that way. We're chosen, not forced. God takes the initiative, chooses us and comes after us; Chooses us to reflect his "power and presence" in our lives. His love draws love out of us. His command isn't a new law to be feared, but a kinship of spirits, between you and your friend Jesus, a union of purpose and mission.
Jesus bore fruit. It was indicative of his relationiship with his Father. He healed, he forgave, he ministered, he comforted. You have been called to bear lovely fruit, too.
Love may still be painful. In fact, it will be! Many early Christians realized the ultimate sacrifice out of love for Christ. But what is the love which Christ taught, but the spirit of self-sacrifice. The world is often hateful toward that which is good and beautiful. The way of love is lined with crosses. It's hard and steep. You may very well get burned. Yet Christ says, " I choose You!" And he may be calling you to bleed willingly and joyfully for his sake.
Maybe you have been less than loving. Maybe you have failed to express love in the past. Maybe you feel unloved and unloving. There is forgiveness in Jesus. There is compensation in Jesus Christ. Have you failed to love? Treated these words cheaply? Don't take it too hard. You are like the rest of us. As long as there are human beings, no one will "get it right" all of the time. Just remember: God's love is there before and after all our efforts to love each other and ourselves. The victory of Christ's resurrection is this: In Jesus, new life, new chances, new beginnings are always being created in us. New opportunities to live the words "I Love You" with great sincerity and great expense and great meaning.
"I love you when you're good" a father told his young daughter. The little girl answered quickly, "I love you all the time, Daddy." That little girl had the right idea of how God loves in Christ. Sacrificially, with great sympathy, with profound simplicity. Knowing that we are forgiven, that we are loved "we try harder."
It cost God to say, "I Love You." It cost Him the life of His Son. God had made these words meaningful. Can we afford to treat them cheaply?
Friends of God, let's love one another and share Christ's joy!
Amen.

MOP'S Rummage & Bake Sale

2008-09-19T23:34:00.001-04:00

MOP'S is having a Rummage & Bake Sale on Saturday, September 27th from 8:00 a.m - 1:00 p.m. in the Old Fellowship Hall.

1 and 2 Thessalonians Week 2

2008-09-18T10:43:00.004-04:00

The first week of our bible study was great! I was glad to see that everyone in the class was involved in asking questions and discussion. I am really looking forward to this week's class.

Last week we studied Acts 17- the founding of the church in Thessalonica. We also learned about the city of Thessalonica, and its history. This week we are diving into chapter 1 of 1 Thessalonians! The first few verses are packed with meaning for the church, so we will really focus on the first five verses in class.

If you are following along online here are some links that will help you to read 1 Thessalonians 1:

1) http://www.easyenglish.info/bible-commentary/1thess-lbw.htm

and http://www.enduringword.com/commentaries/5201.htm

I posted the Enduring Word Commentary last week, but I have found both to be helpful.

In verse four Paul says that he knew that God chose the people of Thessalonica. How do we know that God chose us?

(Hint: The answer is simple- if we have faith, we know that God chose us.)

2) Watch the video on praying for others, and answer the questions below it.

In verse two Paul thanked God in his prayers for the Thessalonian church. According to the video how does it make others feel when we pray for them?

How do you feel when you pray for others?

Why should we pray for others?

3)In verse 5 of 1 Thessalonians 1, Paul mentions the power of God's Word. Look at the hymn found in the link below. (This is hymn 222 in the Lutheran Worship hymnal.)

http://musicanet.org/robokopp/hymn/howblest.htm

Where does the Word come from?

How are we blessed by it?

Post any thoughts, comments, or questions below. Let's get the discussion going!

Two Of A Kind

2008-09-06T22:00:00.001-04:00

Mt. Olive's playgroup for toddlers from 18 to 36 mos will begin meeting on Tuesday, September 30 or Wednesday, October 1. This group, which will complete six years in January, gives toddlers and their caregivers an opportunity for supervised play and an easing into a preschool situation. The class meets from 9:30 to 11:00. For more information, or to enroll your child, call the church office or Doreen Hietsch @ 724-652-4327.

1 and 2 Thessalonians Bible Study

2008-09-04T11:10:00.006-04:00

In addition to using this blog as a way to post events for Mount Olive; I am also using this site as a resource for the adult bible study on 1 and 2 Thessalonians. I will post things on here throughout the class to help those who want to dig a little deeper into scripture. These resources will not be critical to the Sunday class. They are open to everyone, and they might be especially useful to those who would like to attend more than one Bible study on Sunday, but since everything happens at once, are forced to attend one or the other.

I will post links that are relevant to the text of 1 and 2 Thessalonians, as well as, links that are relevant to our discussion.

Here are a few places that I found helpful to introducing yourself to 1 and 2 Thessalonians:

http://www.enduringword.com/commentaries/5201.htm -Provides a solid introduction to the cast of Paul's missionary team in Thessalonica.

http://www.biblestudy.org/maps/pauls-secd-journey-map.html - This is a nice map of Paul's second missionary journey. Here you can follow his route to and from Thessalonica.

http://www.bibleplaces.com/thessalonica.htm -Archaeology is not my forte, but it's fun to look at pictures! This shows some of the remains of Thessalonica under modern day Thessaloniki in Greece.

Feel free to post any question or thoughts that you would like to share!

Mops (From the Mentor's Point of View)

2008-09-02T22:57:00.001-04:00

If you are unfamiliar with MOPS, I want to tell you that I would have given my eye teeth to have had a group such as this to turn to when I was a young mother! What I have observed as a mentor mom are a group of moms, trying to be the best moms that they know how to be (not unlike most of us, right?) BUT (and here's where the good part comes in) with the support, love, shared knowledge, and prayers of other young mothers in the same boat.

A typical MOPS meeting brings moms together for a SIT-DOWN (!) breakfast, shared ideas, knowledge from "experts", cooperative activities, laughter, tears, opportunities to lead and follow, mutual understanding, and PRAYERS...ALL while loving Grandmas entertain and care for the preschoolers in another room.

Give away my eye teeth for this? You betcha! In this day and age when families are remote, neighbors are unseen, and the world just keeps on turnin', it's a blessing to have a group and a place where young moms can be refreshed, renewed and reminded that they are not alone.

As a congregation, we need to support, promote, and encourage the M.O.P.S. Program at Mt. Olive.

Submitted by Doreen Hietsch, M.O.P.S Mentor Mom

Will You Leave Behind a Blessing or a Curse?

2008-08-05T14:34:00.004-04:00

This fall, in a new adult Sunday School class, we will discuss some issues with transferring family wealth and differentiate this process from estate planning.

We know that we can’t take it with us but the wealth that we leave behind could be the best thing or the worst thing that can ever happen to our loved ones.

We will use the book "Splitting Heirs" by Ron Blue, a Christian financial advisor. The book is sometimes humorous, often moving and always crystal clear. Ron explains why it is important to make these decisions now instead of forcing your heirs to do it later. Using practical tips, tools, charts and worksheets he will help us:

--- Leave an inheritance that helps our heirs without spoiling them.

--- Communicate our desires the right way , at the right time.

--- Navigate the legal and tax issues surrounding our estate.

--- Decide which charities or ministries to support, and how to tell if they will be worthy stewards of our hard earned wealth.

Even if our nest egg is small, it can have a huge impact on the next generation. All it takes is a little planning and a real appreciation for the resources that God has put in our care.

Please take the time to view this 8 minute Christian video. Very touching and well worth it!

2008-07-28T12:20:00.000-04:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RvDDc5RB6FQ

Reversing the Marriage Implosion -- By Bob Reccord

2008-07-24T18:46:00.004-04:00

Article Highlights
People spend a lot of time and money preparing for the wedding, but not much preparing for the marriage.

The typical wedding ceremony is crammed with symbols of God’s plan for a covenant marriage ...

Great marriages, or even solid marriages, don’t just happen. They are intentional.

My 24-year old daughter recently participated in a wedding that many merely dream about: the Ritz-Carlton, beautifully manicured acreage, surrounding waterscapes, celebrative music filling the air with anticipation, enough food and drinks to feed a veritable army and, of course, a fashionably elegant wedding party dressed to the nines. Add in a healthy dose of fabulous weather, and you have a magic moment. But external trappings do not always great marriages make!

On the way home my daughter, caught in a reflective fog, enumerated friends whose marriages were already destabilized. “It seems to me that a lot of people spend a lot of time and money preparing for the wedding, but not much preparing for the marriage,” she mused. Stop the world! There’s a piece of earth-shattering perspective. Why wasn’t I thinking of insightful things like that at 24? I wondered.

Today, statistics scream to us of the implosion of marriage. In this disposable society, marriage partners become throw-away items if they don’t fit into the other’s “wants, needs and goals.”
I purposely used the word implosion and not explosion. Webster’s defines it as “to collapse inward as if from external pressure.” Our landscape of marriage looks like the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, or a once-stately high-rise brought to a pile of rubble by demolition experts. So what key pressures and charges are toppling today’s marriages?

It’s a Covenant, not a Contract!

On any given weekend, and even in the church, exhilarated brides and nervous grooms say their “I do’s” without understanding God’s deepest intent for the relationship into which they enter. They ritually run through the elements of a ceremony without understanding the Rock from which it was hewn!

Having had the joy of speaking in marriage conferences, I often start with the differences between a “contract” and a covenant. Tying it back into the covenant dealings of God with His people, I remind them that the Hebrew word so often used for covenant is “beriyth” meaning “a solemn agreement cut between parties with binding force.” I unpack the elements of God’s covenants with His leaders and people, followed by a look at the first-century Jewish wedding (which was seen as a covenant relation). Then I show the elements of covenant still present in the modern-day wedding ceremony. Afterwards, I often have scores of people say, “I’ve never heard that before! Why don’t we hear that in weddings today?” What an attention-grabbing question, indeed! Why don’t they?

The typical wedding ceremony is crammed with symbols of God’s plan for a covenant marriage:
The groom enters first because he is the initiator of the covenant. The white runner depicts holy ground. The father walks his daughter down the aisle because he is coming to the end of his spiritual leadership and prepares to surrender that role to the man in whose hands he will place her. She walks down an aisle (and they will exit by it) representing the “walk of death”, when those entering Biblical covenants walked between the halves of a slain animal, as if to say, “may what happened to this animal happen to me if I break this covenant.” The groom says his vows first because at that moment, he becomes the spiritual head. And we all could stand being reminded that:
A contract is based on distrust;A covenant is based on trust.

A contract is based on limited liability;A covenant is based on unlimited responsibility.

A contract can be voided by a court or mutual consent;A covenant is not to be voided.

A contract says, “What’s mine is mine”;A covenant says. “What’s mine is yours.”

In the past fifteen years, I can’t remember doing a ceremony without focusing on these important elements and what they mean to those taking their “vows”.

What an amazing time of discipling for all involved, and we could be missing it! There are some wonderful resources out there to help any minister capture perhaps one of the most powerful equipping experiences in life. They can move couples from focusing on simply the “wedding,” to concentrating on the covenantal relationship and the strength it brings to the experience.

Enter With Your Eyes Open!

As marriages hurtle into the future before them, we must remind every couple to keep their eyes open for the needs and fears of the other. A wise, seasoned counselor told me years ago that the greatest need of women is security, and her greatest fear is insecurity. Conversely, the greatest need of a man is adequacy, and his greatest fear, inadequacy. If only my wife and I had been told this before we got married, not years later!

Within every wife, there is a little girl craving to hear that she is pretty, valued, treasured and loved. She can handle multiple moves, shaky finances, job difficulties and worse as long as she is relationally secure with her man. Every husband longs to hear, “I’m proud of you because…” He yearns to know he is adequate in his leadership. In conference after conference, women sit stunned when my wife asks men to lower their head and raise their hand on what they would prefer to hear from their wife: “I love you,” or “I’m proud of you.” “I’m proud of you” wins hands down (or up in this case). Even the makers of Viagra and Calais understand a man’s passionate desire to be adequate!

So, what implosions might be avoided if every couple walking toward the altar were clearly guided on the foundational need/fear of their potential mate? It would so clearly show how our IEDs (improvised explosive devices) of words and actions within marriage can rupture the infrastructure of our relationships and bring our homes crashing in around us.

Why Wait ‘til All Else Fails?

I remember well the older gentleman, looking deep into my eyes—with a glint in his—as he said, “When all else fails, son, pray with your wife.” After some 35 years of marriage, I would scream, “DON’T WAIT UNTIL ALL ELSE FAILS!”

I am shaken by how many men across the nation who characterize themselves as “Christian” husbands miss a key ingredient of quake-proof marriages: praying with their spouse. Notice I didn’t say “praying for their spouse.” Sure, that’s important; but something profoundly powerful happens when a husband leads his wife in a time of shared prayer. And ask any wife if she would prefer her husband not lead their prayer, and she’ll likely take your head off! Every woman deeply needs her husband to take the spiritual lead in their home, and this means more than just taking the family to church. It’s an investment of himself in hands-on application.

But why don’t more men do it? Multiple reasons: lack of a good model, a feeling of inadequacy, a fear of failure, not knowing how to begin, lack of equipping…and on and on it goes.
So, to reverse the implosion, could churches spend focused time on equipping men to pray with their wives? Start simply: suggest getting a notebook/journal and writing down prayer needs and requests with their date and the answers as they come. (It blows a woman’s mind when she sees her husband writing down what she says!) And encourage them to begin where they are right now, and repeat that it’s not too late!

At a recent men’s conference, I spoke on this subject and challenged the men to start right where they were, right NOW. The next morning, a 73-year old man sought me out, and with tears streaming down his cheeks he declared, “I did something for the first time last night, something I should have done years ago. I prayed with my wife.” He choked as he recounted the amazing experience and regretted what he had missed for years. Then I asked, “What did your wife do?” With faltering voice, he whispered, “She said she had been waiting all of our married life for this day.” Enough said! And here is the amazing part: his “adequacy-rating” skyrockets, and she feels increasingly secure.

It Doesn’t Just Happen

As I step back and reflect on what I have observed in these last years of societal-wide marriage implosion, above all one missing ingredient comes to mind: intentionality. I have never seen any man say, “I think I’ll marry someone who won’t love me in ten years,” or a woman who proclaimed, “All I want is a breadwinner.” No, every couple marches into marriage looking for the best of times and not giving a second-thought to the possibility of the worst of times. With a beautiful wedding, a breathtaking honeymoon, and a bright new future, what more is there? Not much, is the answer, without intentionality.

Great marriages, or even solid marriages, don’t just happen. They are intentional. Partners must take practical steps to ensure the marriage that starts well can end well. People don’t just “slide” into marriages that last.

Maybe one of the most overlooked resources of our churches are mentoring couples who can be encouragers to younger or newly married couples. In our world of hectic schedules, unending expectations, “performance” mentalities and non-stop pressure, a spiritually mature couple to come alongside a newer one could be a life-saving resource and a pressure-release all at the same time. Their practical wisdom from an intentional, biblically-centered journey could be just what the doctor ordered.

So, could it be that my 24-year old daughter was right? Maybe we are tempted to spend a lot more effort on preparing for the wedding that we do preparing for the marriage. So, the ball’s in our court; may we become leaders, churches and people who act to reverse the implosion, triggering an explosion of stable homes.

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Bob Record is a nationally recognized speaker, author, and business consultant. Bob and his wife Cheryl founded Total Life Impact to encourage the development of purposeful, Christ-centered missions and goals in the lives of believers. Bob served for nine years as the founding President/CEO for the North America Mission Board. He has authored eight books including Beneath the Surface and Made to Count.

When Death Becomes Birth -- By Max Lucado

2008-07-21T10:19:00.003-04:00

You live one final breath from your own funeral.

Which, from God’s perspective, is nothing to grieve. He responds to these grave facts with this great news: “The day you die is better than the day you are born” (Eccles. 7:1). Now there is a twist. Heaven enjoys a maternity-ward reaction to funerals. Angels watch body burials the same way grandparents monitor delivery-room doors. “He’ll be coming through any minute!” They can’t wait to see the new arrival. While we’re driving hearses and wearing black, they’re hanging pink and blue streamers and passing out cigars. We don’t grieve when babies enter the world. The hosts of heaven don’t weep when we leave it.

Oh, but many of us weep at the thought of death. Do you? Do you dread your death? And is your dread of death robbing your joy of life?

Jesus came to “deliver those who have lived all their lives as slaves to the fear of dying” (Heb. 2:15).

Your death may surprise you and sadden others, but heaven knows no untimely death: “You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed” (Ps. 139:16).

Dread of death ends when you know heaven is your true home. In all my air travels I’ve never seen one passenger weep when the plane landed. Never. No one clings to the armrests and begs, “Don’t make me leave. Don’t make me leave. Let me stay and eat more peanuts.” We’re willing to exit because the plane has no permanent mailing address. Nor does this world. “But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior” (Phil. 3:20).

Why don’t you do this: give God your death. Imagine your last breath, envision your final minutes, and offer them to him. Deliberately. Regularly. “Lord, I receive your work on the cross and in your resurrection. I entrust you with my departure from earth.” With Christ as your friend and heaven as your home, the day of death becomes sweeter than the day of birth.

Pastor's 25th Anniversary

2008-07-10T11:05:00.002-04:00

Join us for the 25th Anniversary celebration on Sunday, August 10th, 2008 for Rev. John Pingel.

There will be special services and a dinner to celebrate Pastor's 25 years in the ministry and service here at Mt. Olive.

Dinner Reservation forms are in the greeting area at church. Please fill out and return to the mailboxes of Linda Rodenbeck (#146) or Matt and Deb McCauley (#105).

Mom 2 Mom Consignment Sale & Bake Sale

2008-06-05T16:13:00.002-04:00

MOM 2 MOM
CONSIGNMENT & BAKE SALE

All are welcome to sell

Come shop at our MOM 2 MOM sale for an assortment of gently used kid’s, maternity, & adult clothing, shoes, toys, books, & much more!

SATURDAY, JUNE 28th
8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

If you are interested in selling your items, you can purchase table space. Tables & chairs will be provided.

Tables are $15.00 for 1 table
$25.00 for 2 tables
$35.00 for 3 tables

Registration & deposit required.

Location: Mt. Olive Lutheran Church
Darlington Road
Chippewa, PA

This sale benefits Mt. Olive MOPS

For more information please call Heather at 724-513-6723.

Letter from the Pastor...June 2008

2008-06-05T12:30:00.003-04:00

You can tell a lot about people by the "garbage," the refuse, they throw away. That's not a new idea. We're still digging up previous generations' garbage. We call it "archeology." I have this theory that neighbors watch each other's garbage more than we might acknowledge. My grandmother used to advocate putting the champagne bottle from New Year's Day dinner "on top of the garbage." Obviously, at one time, champagne was a sign of class and prosperity.

At any rate, Americans throw out a lot of refuse or "garbage." In one day, we throw out 150,000 tons of just PAPER products. One million bushels of that, by the way, out the windows of cars and trucks on our highways.

What dos our garbage tell about our culture and our values? About what is important to us? What will WE leave behind? What will archeologists of the future find? It's kind of embarassing to think that somebody will be going through your garbage, even if it's 3,000 years later.

St. Paul talks about garbage in Philippians 3: 7 He says "I consider all things rubbish." Garbage. He's talking about all the "stuff" that made up his life prior to his becoming a Christian. "That which was to my profit" says Paul.

What makes him call this stuff "garbage?" Didn't Paul have a good life before becoming a Christian? From what we know, Paul was born with a silver spoon in his mouth. He hailed from the city of Tarsus--capital of the Roman province of Cilicia--in the northeast corner of the Mediterranean. He was a Jew, a proud descendent of the tribe of Benjamin. Paul had an outstanding eduction by the standards of his day. He had grduated the rabbinical school of the Pharisees at Jerusalem. HE kinew at least three langauges--Hebrew, Greek and Aramaic. He was at home both in Greco Roman culture and Judaic culture. He had inherited from his father the coveted Roman citizenship. He had grown up in one of the cultural centers of the ancient world, Tarsus. It boasted a university second only to that of Alexandria and Athens. Paul would have been able to put many champagne bottles atop his garbage.

And yet, he says: "I consider all these good things rubbish." Why does he do that? What he is saying is, not that all of these things were in of themselves bad. Nor was he saying that such things would have to be given up in order to become a Christian. What he WAS saying was that he now knew what was of ultimate importance in his life. And, by way of comparison, everything else in his life was now just "garbage" or "refuse." Jesus Christ and his salvation was so important to Paul, that everything else was, by way of comparison, was dispensible.

The fact of the matter is, Paul had, in fact, lost many of these things for confessing Christ at the time of his writing. "For his sake" writes Paul, "I have suffered the loss of all things." Literally, "I have had these things confiscated." Paul was imprisoned, and eventually lost his life for the Lord. And yet he says: "I suffer these things gladly, for the sake of Jesus Christ, my Lord."

There is one thing Paul was glad to lose...his self righteousness. Paul thought he was "good enough" to save himself as an expert keeper of the law. But now that was wrapped up and out at the curb. Why? "Because now I have a righteousness NOT my own, but that righteousness whichis through faith in Christ."

The things we throw out in America? Look at what washes up our beaches. Crack vials, needles, syringes, prescription bottles, styrofoam and plastic. These things symptomatic of a society based on an illusion of self sufficiency. A society which doesn't think it needs God.

And along with the garbage, on the Jersey shore, washes up a crucifix.Ironically, symbolic of our greatest need. "Whatever was to my profit, I now consider as loss for the sake of Christ." "I consider everything as loss compared with the greatness of knowing Christ Jesus, my Lord, and the righteousness which comes by faith in him."

Taking Inventory

2008-06-03T14:39:00.002-04:00

Text: Lamentations 3:40 Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the LORD.

At a very young age I was first exposed to the drudgery of taking an annual inventory. First at the family grocery business and later in pharmacies. At these times I did not consider it a fun job. I would ask “why are we doing this” and the answer, as I recall, was because we have to - the Internal Revenue Service requires us to do an inventory once a year. Maybe they actually did not know or didn’t think an 11 year old would grasp complicated business strategy. As a young pharmacist I still didn’t understand what we were doing other than it was an I.R.S. requirement or some “bean counter” needed a number. I was more than willing to relinquish territory and let the bean counter get his own numbers but they never seemed to appreciate my offer. Taking inventory did not fit nicely into my concept of the things I wanted to do as a pharmacist. It was boring, it always involved overtime without pay, it was poorly organized and I was expected to accomplish my normal tasks in addition to doing the boring and tedious job of counting the inventory. The real joy killer was that nobody seemed to do anything of significance with the data obtained.

You can imagine my reaction when I learned as an new owner of a Medicine Shoppe franchise that I was expected to perform a complete inventory every three months. However, I noticed quickly that the franchise owners who worked the programs were successful and made money. Those who fought the programs, or only went through the motions, usually failed or at least failed to thrive. I elected to be a team player. Suddenly I had a vested interest in this process --- my attitude changed. I did the four inventories a year and my organizational skills allowed me to make innovations that resulted in the task being expedited. I started to understand why we were doing this. We had a limited amount of money to invest in inventory. More critical than money was space. In an 800 square foot pharmacy we could not allocate space for items that did not sell. There was no place available for nostalgia or “we always had this before“. The money and space could better be used. We could not afford to waste valuable space for items that produced no profit or prevented us from stocking items that could generate profit by a better utilization of resources. I transformed my thinking completely on this task. At first I only saw this as drudgery to accommodate a regulatory or accounting requirement. I saw no useful application. I came to see this function as a vital tool in my success in business. Once I saw the usefulness, I honed in on the process constantly making it more efficient and accurate. With the appearance of computers, I was able to keep perpetual inventories and totals that were only available four times a year with the expenditure of thirty plus man hours could be obtained in minutes every hour if necessary using virtually no man hours. A task that began as drudgery became a task that I had great enthusiasm for once I saw the benefits.

As a compulsive overeater, in recovery, and in a Twelve Step recovery program patterned after Alcoholics Anonymous, I am confronted with another type of inventory.

The “Big Book” of AA lists the steps. Number Four States “ (We) made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves”. Ouch this could be painful! Can I just go back to the grocery store and count the tomato soup cans or something else a little less personal? Can’t I keep my old harmful inventory because we have become such good friends? I know these are character defects but we have spent a lot of time together. Please Lord sanctify me but not here -- let me keep one foot in my old ways of thinking. Just like at the Medicine Shoppe there is only so much room to store inventory. There is no useful purpose in keeping bad moral inventory. With anger and resentment on the shelf there is no room for honesty and truthfulness. With three shelves taken up by fear and anxiety there is no room for faith and sensitivity. The analogies go on and on. For the pharmacy to function efficiently and profitably the bad inventory must be removed and replaced with good inventory. As redeemed Christians we need ask God to get rid of our bad inventory to make room for good moral inventory. We need to identify the liabilities in our character and ask Him to remove these and ask for sanctifying replacements.

Dr Charles Knippel in his book “Freedom from Hurtful Behaviors” says “ We desperately need to recognize our powerlessness over facets of our lives that are not under the control of the Holy Spirit”. First, he talks about erroneousness and unrelenting thoughts or beliefs about ourselves and/or others such as: I never do anything right, I am not a good person, No one likes me, the future looks hopeless, I don’t mater to God. Second, he talks about painful and persistent feelings: unrealistic guilt, worthlessness, sadness, jealousy, resentment, hatred, fear, shame, disappointment, and loneliness. Third, he talks about recurrent injurious behaviors: overeating, abuse of alcohol, drugs, gambling, wrong sexual activity, overspending, workaholism, gossiping, slander, profanity.

We are not alone in our defects. St Paul wrote in Romans 7:18-19, 25a

I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord!

Dr. Knippel continues “ Denied hurtful mental and physical behaviors seriously jeopardize our spiritual well-being. They are enslaving behaviors that threaten our faith relationship with God. They may not immediately destroy our faith when they are born of weakness and perpetuated by our loss of control over them. Even weak faith is saving faith because faith is the Holy Spirits gift to us. But ultimately unrepented sins of weakness erode and destroy our faith. They thrust God out of our lives.”

This is an important inventory. We take it and we retake it many times. We ask God to get rid of the useless and harmful items in our inventory and to enhance the value of the good aspects that we discover. This task which initially intimidated me has became a task that I have great enthusiasm for now that I see the benefits. Something of great significance will be done with the information obtained.

I invite anyone with an addictive problem to come to our Christ centered 12 step program at Mt. Olive. When you come the first thing you will be given is a poker chip to remind us that we are gambling with our lives and our relationship with Jesus Christ.

Chasing The Lion -- By Mark Batterson

2008-06-03T05:36:00.005-04:00

After hearing Pastor's excellent sermon about wolves, accompanied by impersonations, I feel compelled to pass on this sermon involving lions.

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Let me make a prediction: your biggest regret at the end of your life won’t be the things you did that you wish you hadn’t. Your biggest regret will be the things you didn’t do but wish you had.

That prediction is based on the research of two social psychologists, Tom Gilovich and Vicki Medvec (note). According to their research, time is a key factor in what we regret. Over the short-term, we tend to regret actions—things we did that we wish we hadn’t. But over the long-haul, we tend to regret inactions—things we didn’t do but wish we had. Their study found that action regrets outweigh inaction regrets 53 percent to 47 percent during an average week. But when people look at their lives as a whole, inaction regrets outnumber action regrets 84 percent to 16 percent.

I have my fair share of action regrets. I’ve said and done some things that I wish I could unsay and undo. Who hasn’t secretly wished that they could fly counter-rotational around the earth at supersonic speeds and reverse time like Superman? But I’m convinced that our deepest regrets at the end of our lives will be the risks not taken, the opportunities not seized, and the dreams not pursued.

The Great Omission

It seems to me that the modern church has become fixated on sins of commission. Don’t do this. Don’t do that. And you’re alright. But the problem with that is this: you can do nothing wrong and still do nothing right! Think of it as holiness by subtraction. So holiness becomes the byproduct of subtracting something from our lives that shouldn’t be there instead of maximizing our God-given potential. Don’t get me wrong. Holiness certainly involves subtraction. But I think God is far more concerned about sins of omission—those things we could have and should have done. Maybe holiness has as much or more to do with seizing opportunities as it does resisting temptation? Those who simply run away from sin are half-Christians. Our calling is much higher than simply running away from what’s wrong.

Maybe we’ve measured spiritual maturity the wrong way? Maybe following Christ isn’t supposed to be as safe or as civilized as we’ve been led to believe? Maybe Christ was more dangerous and uncivilized than our Sunday school flannel graphs portrayed? And maybe God wants to raise up a generation of lion chasers?

Chasing Lions

II Samuel 23:20 highlights one of the most obscure yet courageous acts recorded in Scripture, but it’s more than that. It’s a microcosm on how God calls us to approach life.

Benaiah chased a lion down into a pit. Then, despite the snow and slippery ground, he caught the lion and killed it.

Scripture doesn’t tell us what Benaiah was doing or where he was going when he encountered this lion. We don’t know Benaiah’s frame of mind, but Scripture does reveal his gut reaction. And it was gutsy. It ranks as one of the most improbable reactions recorded in Scripture. When the image of a man-eating beast travels through the optical nerve and registers in the visual cortex, the brain has one over-arching message: run away.

That is what normal people do, but lion chasers are wired differently. They don’t see five-hundred pound problems. They see God-ordained opportunities.
For most of us, finding ourselves in a pit with a lion on a snowy day would pose a substantial problem, but you’ve got to admit something: I killed a lion in a pit on a snowy day looks pretty impressive on your résumé if you’re applying for a bodyguard position with the King of Israel! Not only does Benaiah land a job as David’s chief bodyguard, he climbs all the way up the military chain-of-command to become Commander-in-Chief of Israel’s army. Benaiah was the second most powerful person in the kingdom of Israel, but his genealogy of success can be traced all the way back to a life-and-death encounter with a man-eating lion. It was fight or flight. Benaiah was faced with a choice that would determine his destiny: run away or give chase. If you run away, you’ll always wonder what if.

Face Your Fears

Satan wants to scare the heaven out of you. But in the words of I John 4:18: “Perfect love casts out all fear.” As we grow in a love relationship with God, we unlearn the fears that keep us from living by faith. And the end result is fearlessness!
It was two years ago that I was part of a team that went on a mission trip to Ethiopia. Before going on the trip, everybody on the team was a little nervous. It was during a time of political unrest; we were subjecting ourselves to a variety of third world diseases; and even drinking the water and eating the food was done conscientiously.
So everybody on the team was a little nervous, but one team member was downright fearful. Especially when she learned that we were going to camp out in Awash National Park on our free day. Somehow, knowing that armed guards would keep watch all night didn’t ease her mind! Neither did the crocodiles we saw in the river or the lions we heard around the campfire! But I was so proud of Sarah because she faced her fear. And because she pushed through her fears, she experienced some of the most amazing memories of her life.
We drove through the Ethiopian outback and went swimming in a natural spring that was heated by a volcano. You don’t get to do that every day. We visited a tribal village that looked like it came right out of the pages of National Geographic. And none of us will forget our game drive on top of Land Rovers.
In retrospect, it’s hard to imagine how many memories Sarah would have forfeited if she had run away from her fears. One of the greatest tragedies in life is the stories that go untold because we don’t face our fears! But she decided to live her life in a way that was worth telling stories about!
For what it’s worth, none of things she was afraid of happened. The plane didn’t crash. She didn’t get sick. And she wasn’t eaten alive by wild animals. The only bad thing that happened to her was getting pooped on by a baboon. I kid you not! I’m not sure if the baboon was aiming or not, but what a shot. I know that is a nasty, but what a story! That is living life to the fullest!

So here is my advice: don’t let mental lions keep you from experiencing everything God has to offer. The greatest experiences will often double as the scariest experiences. The defining moments will often double as the scariest decisions.
Benaiah must have been scared spitless when he encountered that lion. But he didn’t run away. In fact, it was the fear he felt that made his “in a pit with a lion on a snowy day” story all the more fun to tell ex post facto.
Imagine the bedtime stories Benaiah must have told his children! I can hear his kids: tell us the lion story one more time! I think we owe it to our kids and grandkids to live our lives in a way that is worth telling stories about. And more importantly, we owe it to God. So here is my question: are you living your life in a way that is worth telling stories about?
Maybe it is time to quit running and start chasing.
A New Year Manifesto
When opportunity roars you have a choice to make: run away like a scaredy-cat or grab life by the mane.

Grab life by the mane.

Quit living as if the purpose of life is to arrive safely at death. Set God-sized goals. Pursue God-ordained passions. Go after a dream that is destined to fail without divine intervention. Stop pointing out problems and become part of the solution. Stop criticizing and start creating. Stop playing it safe and start taking risks. Expand your horizons. Accumulate experiences. Consider the lilacs. Find every excuse you can to celebrate everything you can. Don’t let what’s wrong with you keep you from worshipping what’s right with God. Burn sinful bridges. Laugh at yourself. Keep making mistakes. Worry less about what people think and more about what God thinks. Don’t try to be who you’re not. Be yourself. Quit holding out. Quit holding back. Quit running away. And remember: if God is for us who can be against us?
Unleash the lion chaser within!

Maybe it’s time to apply for your dream job; admit your addiction; reconcile the relationship; ask her out; take the test; go on a mission trip; mentor someone; stop attending church and start serving; add a stamp to your passport; take a night class; start a business; or write the manuscript.
There is an old aphorism: no guts no glory.
When we don’t have the guts to step out in faith and chase lions, then God is robbed of the glory that rightfully belongs to him!
Chase the lion!

(note): Neal Roese, If Only: How to Turn Regret into Opportunity (New York: Broadway, 2005), 48.

Mark Batterson is the lead pastor of National Community Church in Washington, D.C., a multi-site church, a leading fellowship in the nation’s capital. Meeting in movie theatres and Metro stops throughout the D.C. area, NCC is attended by more than 70 percent single twenty-somethings. Mark’s weekly podcast is one of the fastest growing in America. His book, In A Pit With a Lion on a Snowy Day: How to Survive and Thrive When Opportunity Roars peaked at #44 on Amazon.com’s best-seller list. This summer he will soon release his newest book entitled, Wild Goose Chase: Reclaiming the Adventure of Pursuing God.

1 Samuel: God's Provision and Protection

2008-06-01T06:02:00.002-04:00

This is a daily devotional provided by "TODAY IN THE WORD" a ministry of Moody Bible Institute. The devotional reading for June 1, 2008 is included here. The rest of the series can be accessed at: www.todayintheword.com

Sunday, June 1, 2008

Read: 1 Samuel 1:1-2:10

My heart rejoices in the Lord; in the Lord my horn is lifted high. - 1 Samuel 2:1

Young children often find the world a frustrating place. Things don't work quite the way they want, and their growing bodies don't quite work how they want them to. A typical child's response to such difficulties often includes wailing, tears, self-pity, anger, and frustration. Unfortunately for many of us, the way we handle life's sorrows is not much better. But today's passage gives us a picture of a better way: the way of faithful prayer before our Almighty Lord.

Hannah knew life's disappointments all too well. Although married to a loving, wealthy, and pious husband, Hannah was childless. To make matters worse, Hannah had to face the ridicule and provocations of Peninnah, her marital rival who was blessed with children. Scripture also tells us that this was a perpetual sorrow for Hannah, one that continued “year after year” (1:7).

But observe Hannah's response to her difficulties. She did not retaliate with anger and hostility, nor wallow in self-pity; rather, she turned to God in her grief and poured out her soul to the Lord. She boldly came before the Lord Almighty and found comfort in a God who cared for a miserable, grief-stricken woman in Israel.

In His mercy, God heard Hannah's prayer and granted her a son. Hannah's response to God's blessing is as instructive as her response to her sorrow. First, she named the child Samuel (meaning “heard of God”)—a constant reminder of God's attending presence (1:20). Second, as promised, she gave her son over to the Lord with extravagant sacrifices in thanks to God. Third, she broke into spontaneous praise for God's grace.

Hannah's response of literally handing her son over to God stands as a reminder that all of God's blessings ultimately belong to Him. All that we have is His, for He is the one who gives what we ask. In this particular case, as we will see in this month's study of 1 Samuel, God used this gift to a grief-stricken woman to raise up a mighty prophet for the people of God.

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
We all face life's sorrows and frustrations—the death of a loved one, the loss of a job, broken relationships, physical ailments. Today's passage reminds us that God knows our griefs, hears our prayers, and promises us comfort in those difficult times. We are also reminded that it is in just such moments that God so often chooses to make His grace known. Let Scripture encourage you today to come before the Lord Almighty and pour out your soul to Him—confident, like Hannah, that He hears and cares.

Workshop Opportunity - St. Luke Church, Cabot. Pa

2008-05-24T11:58:00.002-04:00

How can I bless my family and my Church for generations to come?

Find out at an exiting workshop where you'll enjoy good Christian fellowship and a warm meal while exploring the wisest ways to pass on an inheritance to your family and the ministries God has placed in your heart.

Wednesday, June 11, 6:30pm --- Dinner Provided --- Reservation required.

You will be blessed with:

1. CONFIDENCE that your family and ministries receive the intended gift ftom your estate.

2. STRATEGIES to help minimize taxes and maximize deductions.

3. KNOWLEDGE about different types of gifts that provide longer lasting support.

4. SUCCESS overcoming the three greatest fears and mistakes in estate planning.

Seating is limited so call today to make your reservation. 724-352-2777

St. Luke Lutheran Church, 330 Hannahstown Rd, Cabot, Pa

All Things to All Men or One Thing to Some?

2008-05-22T14:48:00.003-04:00

"I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some." 1 Corinthians 9:22b

Beginning in verse 19, Paul begins to describe in general terms how he approaches people with the gospel. The main point is that he becomes what they are so that he can build a bridge on which to cross with the gospel. This goes by many terms today: Some call it establishing a relationship. Others might call it gaining their permission. No matter what we call it, there are a couple of points that are clear:

Paul does not hit them over the head with doctrine.

Paul uses what they have in common as a bridge.

Paul approaches them on the basis of what they know (or don't).

Paul's motive is pure: it is always the Good News of salvation.

As members of the body and LCMS specifically, it is fair to ask: How do we approach people? Or maybe more correctly: How do others perceive our approach to them?

We are a people of doctrine. This is both our greatest strength and our stumbling block. If we foremost have the importance of doctrine in our heart, then we cannot first have in our heart the concern Christ has for the lost. If Paul is to be our example, we need to have be able to say "that I by all means might save some."

Our walk is challenged at every turn. But our task is to be true to the gospel. We do that by showing the love Christ has for us in our walk and in our words. Peter says: "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect."

We always give our witness in love, with gentleness and respect. As we build that bridge, whether it is measured in minutes or months, we approach them with their terminology, letting them know the love and personal relationship Christ has with and for us, is available to them. This isn't rocket science, it isn't theologically complex. It is simply introducing someone to Jesus.

Provided by Jack Rawlins,

Equipping to Share Presenter

He Understands --- by Max Lucado

2008-05-13T06:25:00.002-04:00

Cries of loneliness. Tune out the traffic and turn down the TV. The cry is there. You can hear their cries. You can hear them in the convalescent home among the sighs and the shuffling feet. You can hear them in the prisons among the moans of shame and the calls for mercy. You can hear them if you walk the manicured streets of suburban America, among the aborted ambitions and aging homecoming queens. Listen for it in the halls of our high schools where peer pressure weeds out the “have-nots” from the “haves.”

Many of you have been spared this cruel cry. Oh, you have been homesick or upset a time or two. But despair? Far from it. Suicide? Of course not. Be thankful that it hasn’t knocked on your door. Pray that it never will. If you have yet to fight this battle, you are welcome to read on if you wish, but I’m really writing to someone else.

I am writing to those who know this cry firsthand. I’m writing to those of you whose days are bookended with broken hearts and long evenings. I’m writing to those of you who can find a lonely person simply by looking in the mirror.

For you, loneliness is a way of life. The sleepless nights. The lonely bed. The distrust. The fear of tomorrow. The unending hurt.

When did it begin? In your childhood? At the divorce? At retirement? At the cemetery? When the kids left home?

Maybe you have fooled everyone. No one knows that you are lonely. On the outside you are packaged perfectly. Your smile is quick. Your job is stable. Your clothes are sharp. Your waist is thin. Your calendar is full. Your walk brisk. Your talk impressive. But when you look in the mirror, you fool no one. When you are alone, the duplicity ceases and the pain surfaces.

Or maybe you don’t try to hide it. Maybe you have always been outside the circle looking in, and everyone knows it. Your conversation is a bit awkward. Your companionship is seldom requested. Your clothes are dull. Your looks are common. Ziggy is your hero and Charlie Brown is your mentor.

Am I striking a chord? If I am, if you have nodded or sighed in understanding, I have an important message for you.

The most gut-wrenching cry of loneliness in history came not from a prisoner or a widow or a patient. It came from a hill, from a cross, from a Messiah.

“My God, my God,” he screamed, “why did you abandon me!” (Matthew 27:46)

Never have words carried so much hurt. Never has one being been so lonely.

Out of the silent sky come the words screamed by all who walk in the desert of loneliness. “Why? Why did you abandon me?”

I keep thinking of all the people who cast despairing eyes toward the dark heavens and cry “Why?”

And I imagine him. I imagine him listening. I picture his eyes misting and a pierced hand brushing away a tear. And although he may offer no answer, although he may solve no dilemma, although the question may freeze painfully in midair, he who also was once alone, understands.
From No Wonder They Call Him the Savior© (W Publishing Group, 1986, 2004) Max Lucado

Bad Boys of the Bible -- Rage, Ruin, Redemption

2008-05-04T06:30:00.003-04:00

This is a daily devotional provided by "TODAY IN THE WORD" a ministry of Moody Bible Institute. The devotional reading for May 1, 2008 is included here. The rest of the series can be accessed at: www.todayintheword.com

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Read: Jeremiah 17:5-10

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. - Romans 3:23

TODAY IN THE WORD
Russian novelist Fyodor Dostoevsky said, “Nothing is easier than to denounce the evildoer; nothing is more difficult than to understand him.” That will be our challenge this month as we study the “bad boys” of the Bible. The simple part is identifying the most infamous sinners in Scripture and pointing out what they did wrong; the difficult but crucial task will be relating to their weaknesses and recognizing how we can and do commit similar acts.

What makes this humble caution so daunting is our tendency to imagine a division between ourselves and the really bad sinners. We use words like they and them instead of we and us to describe people like Goliath and Ahab who blatantly opposed God, or like the Pharisees and angry crowds who rejected Jesus. But their sins are not as easy to avoid as we think.

Today's passage tears down the walls of classification built up to distinguish levels of sinfulness in humanity. Verse 9 paints humanity with a broad brush. Some people believe that deep down, we're all basically good people. But Jeremiah teaches here that deep down we are all helplessly depraved. The phrase “beyond cure” in the niv is elsewhere translated “desperately sick,” “desperately wicked,” “hopelessly dark,” and “exceedingly perverse and corrupt and severely, mortally sick!” It's hard to put a positive spin on that.

But God does. He holds the cure for our sin. Jeremiah sets up the great division of sin, not between the terrible sinners and the not-so-bad sinners, but between the sinners who rely on their own power and those who put their trust in God to save them.

Dostoevsky claimed nothing was more difficult than to understand an evildoer, and Jeremiah supports that idea completely. Indeed, we can't (v. 9)! We must not depend on an innate sense of morality to save us from evil. Our basic sin nature leads us down the same roads that consumed the worst evildoers. But God understands the heart (v. 10). His Word will reveal our sin, and point us to the cure.

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Why focus on bad boys? In their extremes, they reveal the darkness we think we can cover up. This month we'll look at three main groups: those who chronically rebelled against God, those whose lives were destroyed by one critical bad decision, and those whom God redeemed from the depths of badness. Prepare your heart to see what Scripture wants us to learn from these men. It is by His grace alone that we can avoid such colossal failure.

Clean Up Day

2008-04-27T19:20:00.002-04:00

I want to thank everyone who came out on clean up day on Saturday. We got allot of things done. Rich Winkle for heading up the clean up on the outside of the building. John Schofield for heading up the paint in the old hall. He was there until wee hours of the night finishing up. Thanks. I installed 6 new emergency light through out the old building. I have one more to install in the Church.
I also want to thank Jo Martin for getting all the food ready on trays for our lunch. It was a great time and fellowship.

Thanks again for everyone who showed up.

Gods peace, Bryan Leslie

Council Meeting Minutes - April 20

2008-04-23T10:10:00.005-04:00

The meeting opened with a reading and prayer by Pastor Pingel. There were no minutes for March's meeting.

Board of Elders - Bill Logan
Bill reported that at their last meeting they talked about financial issues. They also said that we have to reach out to some of our members that haven't been contacted lately. The prospect of renewing Tele Care was discussed at that meeting.

Evangelism - John Hazelwood
No meeting this month. John spoke about the Ongoing Ambassadors For Christ group that came in February. He reported that it was a very successful event. He also spoke about renewing the evangelism class that Vicar Matt taught last year.
John mentioned that it is not helpful to talk about others and this might lead to the alienation of some people.

Stephen Ministry - Ron Hietsch
Ron reported that Stephen Ministers were studying the chapters on divorce as part of their continuing education. Stephen Ministers will also be assisting with a renewed Helpmates program.
Additionally, he is starting a 12 step program on addictions. It will start on Tuesday, April 29th at 7:00. It may be called a Safe Recovery Group.

Volunteer Ministries - Janet Frisch
Pastor and Janet have reworked the Tele Care Program and got it on track again. Lists have been sent out and new callers have been obtained to facilitate the program.

Publicity - Helen Gillingham
Helen still sends out cards to everyone that moves into the area. She shared that there are a lot fewer people moving into the area than in the past.

Pastor
Pastor reported that the midweek program, Gospel Gang, has run its course and that staff appear burned out. In its place he suggested a program that would be run by a council of 5 or 6 under the auspices of the Board of Education. Pastor wanted some feedback from council before talking to Bonnie Hazelwood. He indicated that she has done a wonderful job running the program but that it is just too much for one person to run, and that no ministry should depend on one person. In the meantime we will involve District staff and explore alternative programming.
Pastor also said that sometimes people who are apt to complain are not participating themselves in the activities of the church, such as Bible Study and general programming.
Additionally, Pastor reported that the church has received $100,000 from the estate of Marge Patton that is to be put in the LCEF Building account. These monies are restricted and cannot be used for general fund purposes as per the wishes of Marge Patton. Only church council has the authority to free them for use.

Trustees
Scott Rodenbeck delivered the report on behalf of the Trustees. Work day is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 9am-1pm Lunch will be served. The Leslies purchased replacement emergency lights for the church.

Board of Education - Scott Rodenbeck
Scott reported that they have a nice summer Sunday School planned. The format is 13 lessons from the Bible. Teachers are still being sought to help instruct these classes. The notion of spending a portion of class time outside was discussed to take advantage of the nice weather. The Board of Education also wants to encourage adults to continue attending classes during the summer. Plans for Vacation Bible School are underway.

Preschool - Deb Levato
Deb went to a literacy program at the mall last weekend and it was very successful. It was very good publicity for the school. Both Pre-K morning classes are filled and the afternoon classes are coming along. Deb talked about the need for a transitional kindergarten for those children that are not ready for the first grade.
Deb thanked everyone who bought flowers. With the $3,000 that was raised the school was able to financially assist 8 students.

MOPS - Heather Greco
Heather returned from a summit convention and wants to start an evening MOPS group.

Other business
Ron Hietsch reported on the state of the church mortgage. Payments are on schedule however the loan documents call for a change in the payment amounts to accommodate interest rate changes. This has not happened and could create a balance due at the end of the 30 years. The Lutheran Church Extension Fund has been questioned about this situation and we are waiting for a reply. Ron will keep track of this as it progresses.

Council President - Rex Pagani
Rex stated that when times are tough, new things need to be tried. Instead of sitting back, extra efforts and attempts can be done. He thanked everyone and the meeting was closed with the Lord's Prayer

Believing Vs Following --- Rev. Dr. Harry Wendt

2008-04-17T06:35:00.005-04:00

In his book Beyond Guilt (pp. 19, 20), George Johnson includes the following statement by Dr. Ernest Campbell, who once served as pastor of Riverside Church in New York City:

“It began innocently enough–a friend recommending a book by Jon Sobrino. The Salvadoran Jesuit blew most of my ducks out of the water. He threw a hat down on my scrabble board and messed up many of my combinations. He forced me to contend for the ground that I had claimed. The question that Jon Sobrino put to me I must share with you: ‘Are you following Jesus, or believing in Christ?’

“Plunge into the Gospels anywhere and you will likely find Jesus asking someone to follow. The Greek verb is akoloutheo. It represents a dominant motif. Why, then, do we hear so little about following Jesus in the church today? I’ve been in, with, and around the church for more than 50 years. Not when I was in the communicants’ class; not when I joined the church; not when I became a candidate for the ministry; not when I was ordained; and never in any of my services of installation. Always the questions have dealt with belief. ‘Do you believe in God–Father, Son, and Holy Spirit? Do you believe in the veracity of the Scriptures and the Westminister Confession? Do you believe in the unity and purity of the church?’

“Do you believe in Christ? It isn’t hard to answer that. What is wanted is an affirmative response to treasured propositions about the Second Person of the Trinity. But when someone asks, ‘Are you following Jesus?’—this can get to be expensive. This question has to do with my lifestyle, my attitudes, my values, my surrender.

“If I’m following Jesus, why am I such a good insurance risk? If I’m following Jesus, why, when I have done my giving, have I so much left over for myself? If I’m following Jesus, why do my closets bulge when so many are unclothed? If I’m following Jesus, why do I have so many friends among the affluent and so few among the poor?
If I’m following Jesus, why do I have so much privacy in a world that is starved for love? If I’m following Jesus, why am I tempted to overeat in a world in which so many beg for bread? If I’m following Jesus, why am I getting on so well in a world that marked Him out for death?

“Are you following Jesus or believing in Christ? Unfair, you say; the two are inseparable. Theoretically, yes, but pragmatically, no. We separate them all the time. If we must, let us err on the side of following. For one can believe without following, but one cannot follow without believing.”

On The Anvil --- by Max Lucado

2008-04-11T06:20:00.001-04:00

With a strong forearm, the apron-clad blacksmith puts his tongs into the fire, grasps the heated metal, and places it on the anvil. His keen eye examines the glowing piece. He sees what the tool is now and envisions what he wants it to be—sharper, flatter, wider, longer. With a clear picture in his mind, he begins to pound. His left hand still clutching the hot mass with the tongs, his right hand slams the two-pound sledge upon the moldable metal.
On the solid anvil, the smoldering iron is remolded.
The smith knows the type of instrument he wants. He knows the size. He knows the shape. He knows the strength.
Whang! Whang! The hammer slams. The shop rings with the noise, the air fills with smoke, and the softened metal responds.
But the response doesn’t come easily. It doesn’t come without discomfort. To melt down the old and recast it as new is a disrupting process. Yet the metal remains on the anvil, allowing the toolmaker to remove the scars, repair the cracks, refill the voids, and purge the impurities.
And with time, a change occurs: What was dull becomes sharpened, what was crooked becomes straight, what was weak becomes strong, and what was useless becomes valuable.
Then the blacksmith stops. He ceases his pounding and sets down his hammer. With a strong left arm, he lifts the tongs until the freshly molded metal is at eye level. In the still silence, he examines the smoking tool. The incandescent implement is rotated and examined for any mars or cracks.
There are none.
Now the smith enters the final stage of his task. He plunges the smoldering instrument into a nearby bucket of water. With a hiss and a rush of steam, the metal immediately begins to harden. The heat surrenders to the onslaught of cool water, and the pliable, soft mineral becomes an unbending useful tool.
“For a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.” (I Peter 1:6-7)

Mount Olive Church ---- A Safe Place For Recovery

2008-04-08T05:58:00.005-04:00

Like a lot of things the Internet is a mixed blessing. This blogspot is an excellent idea for sharing and communicating information in our congregation and I thank Vicar Jon for bringing us this tool. However, we must remember that whatever we place on here for our own use is available to the entire world. I have seen my comments show up in surprising places when I have “googled my Name”. I am fully prepared to confess my sins when needed but only to my brothers and sisters in Christ, not the whole internet community.

With this little caveat in mind I do wish to share this shortened testimony concerning my recent miraculous weight loss.

The shortened version starts in September of 2007. Pastor Pingel presented the continuing education portion at our monthly Stephen Ministry supervision session. At that time he casually mentioned that he had some twelve step recovery materials and this was an area that someone could pursue if interested. Roughly 14 years previously I attended some 12 step meetings for compulsive overeaters and achieved considerable success. I didn’t stay with the program, relapsed into compulsive overeating and gained a lot of weight. I started reading 12 step materials again. The morning of September 29 I decided to once again read “The Big Book” by alcoholics anonymous (AA). It required some editing on my part. I substituted food for alcohol and compulsive overeater for alcoholic. AA like other 12 step groups, in order to be very inclusive, talks about a Higher Power of your own understanding. I naturally read Jesus Christ every time the “Big Book” said higher power.

After only reading a few pages, I asked God, in prayer, to please grant me abstinence from compulsive overeating. I then ate a small lunch and went down to my favorite Saturday afternoon “watering hole” and or “feeding trough” for what usually was two or three beers and a hamburger or two. I nursed one beer all afternoon and symbolically put the money for the hamburger that I didn’t eat in the tip jar. What a miracle - abstinence from compulsive overeating descended on me at that point. It is as if God was waiting for me to ask. I experience normal hunger at normal times but my cravings for food are gone. This power comes from God and not from me. (2 Cor. 4:7)

Step twelve of AA is to carry this message to others. I plan to continue attending 12 step meetings and hopefully when needed function - like Paul - as an apostle to the gentiles.
My true passion, however, is to bring a totally Christ centered program to Mt. Olive. This group could serve not only compulsive overeaters and alcoholics but other compulsive behaviors. I have spoken confidentially with others and there is interest in forming a Christian 12 step group here. Please feel free to talk with me in confidence and anonymity if you want to participate or need more information.

Ron H.

Spring: By Michael Halleen

2008-04-04T11:29:00.003-04:00

"He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of people." (Ecclesiastes 3:11)
> The ice on our lake will soon give way. It cannot stay much longer. It's that time of year in Minnesota when the angle of the sun has become more direct and its rays warmer. Lake ice is not pretty as it dies — gray, mottled, rough. But it's clear there is no hope for it now.

I like to think of the little problems and burdens I carry as lake ice in its last stages — unpleasant at the moment, but not long for this world. A woman shared her worries with me some time ago, and they were many. She seemed overwhelmed by minor aches, frets and cares. Mouth drawn, eyes sad, voice cracking, she was unable to register hope. I tried to assure her that those concerns, as gray and depressing as they seemed now, would pass, that the world was full also of sunshine. But it was hard to persuade her of a coming spring, and I'm sure I failed to do so. Endless winter.

I met a man a few days later after who hardly noticed the ice at all. Though he had recently lost a high-paying job and had a family to support, he was not dwelling on the problem but rather looking ahead to what's next. Eyes bright, he spoke of those who had real problems in life and of his desire to be of service to them in a new line of work. Voice alive, he smiled as he talked of the love of family and encouragement of friends. It was as though the lake was already blue and sparkling in his life. There was no need to convince him of spring; he was showing it to me.

Each year, at the first sign of open water, some neighbor kids get into a paddle boat and venture out into the lake for the first time. They seek out the cracks that have developed in the dying ice and maneuver their little craft through them like French explorers searching for the headwaters of the Mississippi. I watch them from my window and remind myself that with eternity in our hearts we can find beauty even in life's trials, something to discover even in an expanse of gray.
When it happens — the last ice finally settling below the rising water—it takes only a few minutes. Next time I look out the window, the lake might be open, the last of winter's ice gone. Soon . . . maybe today.

You can contact Mike at mhalleen@att.net to be added to his weekly devotional email list.

Submitted by Doreen Hietsch

Spring Clean Up

2008-04-03T19:05:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone! I just wanted to let everyone know that the Spring Clean Up has been changed from April 19Th to April 26Th starting at 9am. I hope to see you there.
Thanks again.
God Bless. Bryan Leslie

Stewardship: Where is your treasure?

2008-04-03T10:47:00.003-04:00

This is a daily devotional provided by "TODAY IN THE WORD" a ministry of Moody Bible Institute. The devotional reading for April 1, 2008 is included here. The rest of the series can be accessed at: www.todayintheword.com

Tuesday, April 1, 2008

Read: Matthew 6:19-24

Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. - Matthew 6:21
TODAY IN THE WORD
In Matthew 13:44-46, Jesus told a pair of short parables that speak to the heart of this month's study on stewardship. In the first, a man found a treasure in a field, then went and sold all he had in order to buy the field and obtain the treasure. In the second, a merchant found a perfect pearl, and he also went and sold all he had to buy it. The main lesson of both stories is the surpassing value of the kingdom of heaven. Good stewardship begins with knowing how to value what is truly valuable. Good stewardship begins by understanding that the things of this world are worthless compared to the things of God.

This is the mindset with which we approach our month's topic: We conduct our stewardship beneath the wings of the One who is worth immeasurably more than everything we are stewarding. Jesus also reminded us of this truth in the Sermon on the Mount. Our real treasure is not of this world. Earthly goods are temporary and always at risk; heavenly treasures last forever and cannot be stolen. Simple logic tells us which one is more worth pursuing and storing up. The principle is to prize what is greatest and to invest our energy and effort to acquire what really matters (vv. 19-21).

A second metaphor repeats this central idea. The “eye” is what we use to see and evaluate and choose the treasures on which we set our hearts. If we discern and strive for right priorities, we see clearly and walk in the light (vv. 22-23). Put God first, and everything else follows (v. 24).

Stewardship concerns not only money, which is often how we think of it, but also other resources such as time and energy, and other matters for which we bear responsibility, including relationships and the created world. This month we will study how to handle the people, things, and resources placed in our care or within our circle of influence as followers of Christ.

March Preschool News

2008-03-21T14:14:00.002-04:00

Happy Easter! March has been a very busy month here at preschool, we started off with celebrating Lutheran School's Week, by singing at second service on Sunday's March 2nd and March 9th. We want to thank everyone for their continued support and love for the preschool. We hope that you enjoyed our power point presentations provided by the Vicar! Thank you to all of the families that joined us as well. We took a field trip to Dr. Andino's office on March 10th. The children were given a tour of the office and they were able to sit in the big chair! They had a great time learning about visiting the eye doctor. The Chippewa Police Department visited with our students on March 12th and 13th. The children learned about stranger danger and not to be afraid to ask Police Officers for help. We continued learning about God's Word and how much he loves us all through the stories of Jesus in the garden, Peter's denial, Crucifixion, Resurrection and Ascension; as told by Pastor and Vicar Jonathan. We had our Easter Parties, which were handled by the parents! Great good to you all! We will have our Easter break from Thursday, March 20th through Monday, March 24th. We will see our three-year-old student back on Tuesday, March 25th. We hope you all have a safe and happy Easter!
Our service project for the month is Meals-on-Wheels. The students with the help of the teachers and staff decorated bags, made favors and upside down pineapple cakes. Thank you to Jo Martin, who runs the Meals-on-Wheels program, for all her help with this service project.
Our Chapel dates this month are the 26th and 27th, times are as follows; 11:00am, 11:30am, and 2:30pm for Pre-K and 10:30am, 11:00am, and 1:30pm for the 3 year olds. Please join us if you can!
Our preschool students have been preparing for Kindergarten all year and have been visiting the schools where they will be attending Kindergarten in the Fall. This has been a great start to helping in the transition of our students from Preschool into Kindergarten. If you have any questions about transition please give me a call or stop in and see me. Thank you to all the schools for their help and cooperation in this process.
We are still collecting Campbell UPC symbols and Shop-n-Save receipts.....thank you for your continued support of these rewarding programs. If you have any questions about the preschool or any special talents you would like to share with our preschool students, please contact Debbie Levato at 724-847-7291, we are always looking for special and different experiences for the children.

Coal Town Hill

2008-03-17T14:20:00.001-04:00

We live in a section of Lawrence County referred to by the “Old Timers” as “Coal town”
One of the roads leading into the area is appropriately called “Coal Town Hill”. This is one of those monster hills that as kids only a few of us could brag about being able to ride our bicycles up ----- there were no gears on bicycles in those days. I believe that this is the highest elevation point in Lawrence County. Our house is inconveniently located in a place that is parallel with the lower section of coal town hill but is inaccessible by road. To walk to our home it is necessary to go north clear to the top of the hill, head west then south to almost the bottom of the hill. The whole time while walking this I am tempted to trespass through private property to easily reach my house.

Last September I didn’t even like driving up this monster let alone walking it. I wouldn’t think of trying. I first had to get off my seat at the computer and start walking on the level. I started using the treadmills in the senior center near our house. My first attempts were not spectacular. I could do a mile in around 22 minutes with zero elevation. I worked at improving this with limited success. Obviously the extra weight I was taking on the trip didn’t help. I had to change my eating behavior to accomplish my climb up this hill. This change was a gift from God and a testimony of His power and not mine. I asked for His help. Now I leave my house in the morning and walk 1.7 miles to have coffee with some friends, walk another 1.1 miles to the senior center where I walk two 16 minute miles using an 8% elevation and then walk the remaining 1.2 miles home by way of coal town hill.

Tithing is the same way. There was a time when I didn’t even think of trying -- too hard, I can’t do it. I had to change my mind set to accomplish this. Like the climb up Coal Town Hill it took training and prayer. Most of us can not go from zero giving to ten percent in a moment’s notice. We have to first get off the chair and start. First we need to have a change in mind set. We need to ask God to help us get rid of the excess weight in our budgets so that we are in a position to give to Him first. Some budget changes are easy, others take a while to implement. Sometimes we are stuck with some past decisions that take time and planning to extricate ourselves from. Tithing is a spiritual exercise -- we feel closer to God when we tithe. There are also temporal benefits. When we watch our expenses close enough to tithe, we always seem to be able to save for emergencies. Our financial and spiritual lives simultaneously improve. Like being able to climb that monster hill we are in better shape because we took those important first steps.

Trustees Meeting

2008-03-16T14:25:00.004-04:00

The trustees had a meeting on Sat. March 15Th. We decided to have a spring clean up on April 19Th. Keep that date available. We will need painters and grounds help and we can always use a couple good cleaners.
We also discussed the emergency lights in the old building. They are not working and we are going to check them out and find out what we need to replace or fix them.
The last thing we discussed is that if any member has a complaint or suggestion about anything concerning the cleaning or up keep of the church to PLEASE call me so we can take care of it or investigate your concern.
That's about all for now. Hope you all have a Blessed Easter.
God Bless, Bryan Leslie

From the Pastor...March 2008

2008-03-11T15:06:00.001-04:00

"Maundy" Thursday. Most people don't have a clue to what the term "Maundy" means. The word "Maundy" is derived from the Latin verb "mandare" meaning "to command" or "mandatum" meaning "commandment." The day gained the name "Maundy" NOT because Jesus gave the command to observe the Lord's Supper, but actually from the Gospel reading for the day, John chapter 13, where he says these words: "A new commandment I give you. Love one another." And although most of us associate the day with the institution of Holy Communion, the overarching theme is this other command of Jesus: "Love one another; even as I have loved you, love one another."

Perhaps we need to back up a little bit and set these words in context before we try to elaborate on their meaning and significance in relation to the day. John begins chapter 13 with a somber, reflective comment onn what was the eve of Jesus' crucifixion. "Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love." We are informed that all of the props for the evening's drama were in place. The evening meal had been prepared. The devil had already prompted Judas to betray Jesus. And suddenly, Jesus--on this, the eve of his crucifixion--springs into action. He rises from the table, takes off his outer clothing, wrapts a towel around his waist, pours water into a basin--and begins to wash his disciples' feet, drying them with a towel.

Several verses are then spent on a little "trist" between Jesus and Peter. Peter tells Jesus: "Heaven forbid, Lord, YOU shall never wash my feet!" And Jesus informs him that it is necessary for him to wash him, and other, to "make them clean."

The story really gets to the point with verse 14, as Jesus says to his disciples:

"Now that I, your teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. I have set before you an example, that you should do as I have done for you...A NEW COMMANDMENT I GIVE TO YOU--LOVE ONE ANOTHER. AS I HAVE LOVED YOU, SO YOU MUST LOVE ONE ANOTHER."

Now, these are awfully interesting words of Jesus, aren't they? Jesus COMMANDS, ORDERS his followers to "love one aother." Ever think about that? Just 'cause I tell you to love someone, doesn't mean you're going to be able to do it--am I right? On one level, love can't be COMMANDED, can it? If by love I mean a warm, gushy feeling toward another.

Even when we think of a man and woman loving each other...think of a time when marriages were arranged, when brides were bought and sold for a dowry price. How awful not to be able to marry for love! LOVE is an emotion, right? A feeling.. not something that can be forced or manufactured or created by an act of will power!

To further confuse issues, the prophet Jeremiahh speaks of day when God would write "the law on his people's hearts." This prophecy presumably fulfilled with the coming of Jesus. In other word, people would love not because the were TOLD to but because they would WANT to. They would love without being threatened or cajoled into doing it.

And yet, Jesus here utters a COMMANDMENT. HE tells them they must now LOVE ONE ANOTHER. Why the need for a commandment?

Could it be that this new, Spirit engendered response of the Christian, of our love to God's love, can be so easily stifled and snuffed out, that a commandment IS necessary? Perhaps we need a command, even as Christians, because, viewing love as we so often do as a mere emotion, we are so unpridictable in our loving. Could it be that the shadow of laziness haunts our love? Could it be that as Christians, perhaps more so as Christians, we need to be reminded that love is hard work, that it has to be more lip service. And that therefore it is more appropriate to speak of love as something which CAN be commanded.

SO, you see, there IS a sense in which love can be commanded. To command love is to realize that our feelings need to be undergirded by determination and effort. If Jesus is telling us anything, he is telling us that love is NOT just a gushy, sentimental feeling. Love is an ACT of caring and sharing. Folk singer Pete Seeger one wrote that, in his opinion, SHARE is actually a better word than love, because it is more descriptive of what loving is all about. "To love is to share our vulnerablity and neediness of one another, giving and receiving help." So don't just talk about love, SHOW it! That's what Jesus is getting at.

Remember that footwashing is not necessarily a pleasurable experience. Feet are often stinky and in Jesus' day were very dirty. Foot washing was normally relegated to a servant, and was not done by the host. But that brings up an important point. Not all loving work which need to be done is enjoyable. We cannot be commanded to LIKE a person, but love goes deeper than liking. God doesn't necessarily expect us to LIKE our neighbor. HE does expect us to LOVE our neighbor. At the very least we can see that person as someone for whom Christ died. The bible calls this kind of love "AGAPE," which is loving, expecting nothing in return. It helps love to stay alive evne when people are not at their best, even at times when they are not particularly lovable.

"Love one another." So many times, loving one another is seemingly impossible. SO many times we are tempted to give up. But even in his command, Jesus supplies our needs, empowers us to love! The very sight of the soon to be crucified Jesus, who, thought king of the universe, condescends to take a towel and wash feet, on the eve of his death, compels us to hear, and obey. His words are true. And example is, after all, the best teacher.

KEEPING CHRIST IN CHRISTMAS By Larry Burkett

2008-03-09T21:53:00.004-04:00

It may seem a little early to be talking about Christmas but it does sneak up on us each year. There are concepts presented here that we may want to pray about for awhile. Ron
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It irritates me when I see Christ being taken out of Christmas. That is not limited to only non-Christians--even Christians have adjusted to the commercialism of the holiday season. Obviously, not all of it is bad--in fact the holiday season provides the opportunity for families to reunite and also provides a pleasant break from our routines. I personally look forward to these days as an opportunity to visit with friends who are much too busy at other times in the year to just stop and relax.

But we have become terribly imbalanced. We give a myriad of useless gifts at Christmas because it's expected of us and we feel guilty if we don't. The commercialized world now makes a $100.00 toy seem perfectly normal. It's easy to observe the stress that our imbalanced society places on family members. Christian parents who cannot provide the latest indulgences to their children are often depressed and distraught. Obviously, no one purposely makes them feel unworthy or insignificant, but the overwhelming emphasis we place on giving at Christmas certainly does.

So great is this social pressure that the closer we get toward Christmas Day, the more depressed and unworthy those who can't indulge feel. Unfortunately the pressures don't end once Christmas is past either. Those who can't afford to compete in their gift-giving often dread congregating with their friends immediately after the holidays, because at "show and tell" time they don't have much to show. It is not a conscious act on the part of most people to openly display their pride. Rather, because we are in a competitive society we often determine a person's worth by his ability to buy things. "For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God" (Colossians 3:3).

Balance

One extreme is not balanced by going to the opposite extreme. The distortion of Christmas won't be corrected by eliminating all gift-giving and observing Christmas as a "religious" holiday. The fact is, we do live in this world, and our families are greatly influenced by others. What we need to do is swing back toward the middle and eliminate the need to compete with others. Then we will have the freedom to develop God's plan for our families without the pressure from the commercial world.

In order to do so, I believe that as Christians, we must first believe that God's plan is different from the world's, and is more--not less--fulfilling. It is a deception to think that by adopting a more disciplined lifestyle we are somehow denied the "good life." It's like saying that by avoiding drugs, we deny our children the euphoria that would make them feel "good." But to decide that any and all are evil and absolutely refuse to use them makes for a painful experience if you have to have a broken leg set. The key, as always in God's plan, is balance. That always comes from following God's wisdom.

SHIFT OF ATTITUDES

Gift-giving at Christmas is a relatively new idea. Until a couple of centuries ago, Christmas was reserved as a religious holiday on a noncommercial basis. Many of our forefathers would have believed that trading presents on the day set aside to observe Christ's birthday was near blasphemy. However, gift giving became a generally accepted practice and was used primarily to show appreciation to loved ones. Gifts were usually simple, regardless of the means of the giver so as to not embarrass those who couldn't afford to give very much. For a long while in most countries, gifts were exchanged on New Year's Day (not a bad idea today--think of the great buys you could get!). Christmas gifts were limited to food for the poor or special gifts to pastors and missionaries.

As with most things that start out right, somewhere along the way the direction shifted. By the early twentieth century, families were exchanging simple gifts, usually handmade, on Christmas Day. Certainly there was really nothing wrong with that, except that under the growing influence of secularism it was a golden opportunity for Satan to divert our attention from Christ to Santa Claus. By post-World War II, Santa was the dominant figure at Christmas and December was the calendar month for retail sales of all kinds.

How did it happen? It would seem apparent that Christians aren't as wise in the things of the Lord as non-Christians are in the things of the world. The secular world is always looking for ways to shift attention from God to material things, and we're naive enough to go along. By the time we realize that our whole direction has been diverted, as it has been at Christmas, we believe it's too late to change, so we give up. "For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world" (1 John 2:16).

WHAT TO DO?

By anyone's standard, the way Christmas is celebrated today is a gross commercialism of the most important birth in history. But we don't need to preach to the unsaved world to put Christ back into Christmas. They shouldn't; we should. One thing I learned a long time ago in counseling is not to try to overcorrect too quickly. Not only are past habits, such as overindulging at Christmas, difficult to change, but quite often others around us don't see things just the way we do. If you attempt to stamp out all Christmas gifts suddenly, you'll end up with a revolt on your hands. The correct way to is make some positive steps to establish a better balance.

Step 1: Stamp out Santa Claus. Christian parents should let their children know that Santa is a fraud. Santa's harmless you say? Not so, when parents knowingly deceive their children about an apparently omnipotent being who travels the world in the wink of an eye and disburses presents on the basis of good or bad. It may be a small matter, but it is a place to start.

Step 2: Husband and wife should pray together and agree on a reasonable amount of gift-giving. Once you have reached a decision that you feel is God's plan for your family, don't get caught by Satan's condemnation as Christmas approaches. The pressure to buy when everybody else is buying will be difficult to resist unless you absolutely agree. And again, I repeat, don't overcorrect. Develop a balanced attitude that will accomplish your goals over the next few years.

One method that has proved successful to many families is to commit an equal amount spent on gifts to feeding the truly needy. In many areas of the world, an amount equal to most of our gift purchases would feed and clothe a family for several months. By giving to a specific family through a Christian organization, your children can see the purpose and value of your sacrifice and theirs. "And whoever in the name of a disciple gives to one of these little ones even a cup of cold water to drink, truly I say to you he shall not lose his reward" (Matthew 10:42).

Step 3: Stamp out credit. As bad as commercialized Christmas is, commercialized Christmas on credit cards is even worse. Many families literally indenture themselves to creditors for a whole year just to buy some useless junk at Christmas. As Christians, we need to decide if we really serve the God of the universe. If so, then He knows our needs and will meet them through His people without indebtedness.

I know that some of the people reading this have desperate needs. I also know that others sincerely want to help but don't know who has needs. The use of credit allows those who have needs to temporarily buffer themselves from God's real source. "As it is written, 'He who gathered much did not have too much and he who gathered little had no lack'" (2 Corinthians 8:15). I believe Satan has used credit cards to cheat God's people out of blessings and to keep them in bondage.

WHY BOTHER?

With all the other important issues to deal with, such as crime, abortion, and drugs, a logical question would be, "Why bother with such a minor issue as gifts at Christmas?" Because gift-giving is one area totally under our control, and like the Easter bunny, it is leaven that Satan sprinkles in the church. The practice of giving gifts is not the problem, just as the use of credit is not the problem. It is the misuse of these things that entangles us and diverts attention from Jesus Christ to material things.

We have enlisted in God's army and now find we can't identify the real enemy
"No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier" (2 Timothy 2:4).

Our problem is that we keep trying to negotiate a compromise with an enemy who is totally dedicated to destroying us. It's time that, as Christians, we decide to draw a battle line again. When it comes to commercializing Christ's birth or resurrection, we need to establish a balance.

"Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy" (1 Timothy 6:17).

Economic Stimulus Package

2008-03-09T14:36:00.003-04:00

I received a notice from the Internal Revenue Service yesterday telling me that a tax rebate check will be sent later this year. The concept is total anathema to me but I will swallow my ideology and accept the check. The president and congress want me and 116 million others to spend this money with abandon in the hope that it will stimulate the economy and ward off a recession.

I learned about an interesting concept from my two grandfathers when I was a child, they were both astute money managers, the concept is called saving. When I studied Economics in College, I learned a fancy term for saving. The term is called “Marginal propensity to Save”. This term simply defined by the science of economics says that for each extra dollar of income received a portion goes into savings. This concept has a companion term Called “Marginal Propensity to Consume“, for each extra dollar of income received a portion will be spent on goods and services. The two numbers will always add up to one. As far as I know there is no provision in their theory for giving. I have not heard of a marginal propensity to give except in God‘s word. God asks that we give ten percent of our income to him through his body the church. This automatically gives every Christian a marginal propensity to give of 0.1. Hence, 10% of this rebate should go to God through His Church.

Some might say that this is not helping the economy -- “you are supposed to buy worthless junk with that rebate“. Imagine this money going into the mortgage fund at Mt Olive. From there it goes to the Lutheran Church Extension Fund to help pay off our loan. The extension fund then lends this money to other congregations to build. These congregations then hire contractors, buy materials and employ people to build church facilities so that more people will be drawn into the Kingdom of God. What a triple win situation! People are employed building useful buildings, the economy is still helped and God‘s work is facilitated. Depending on your situation the check can be split into giving, saving, and spending. Paying down debt, a form of saving is another option. Think about it between now and when the check arrives, we are even free to give it all to God’s work.

Preview of May 11, 2008 Testimony

2008-03-08T04:29:00.005-05:00

Truthfully -- I really do not want to give this talk today. I hastily agreed to be here when I was caught in the emotion, and manipulation, of a meeting discussing our deepening financial situation. I am here because I committed to be here. I am at odds with my commitment. My intellect says this is not the way to solve this problem. Many of you are strongly committed to this congregation and the work of the Lord. Why do you need to sit through weekly presentations designed to prod, or shame, you into additional giving when you are already sacrificing? Why are we subjecting everyone to these talks? It is my contention that those of you who are committed will rise to the challenges presented if you are simply asked one time privately -- by letter, personal contact or a posting on the blogspot..

The fact remains that we have a large portion of our membership that does not support the work of this congregation with any financial contribution. There is another segment that offers minimal support. I personally call those who support this congregation with time talents and treasures partners. Others might use the term disciples. Partners understand their responsibilities and are motivated to honor their duties and commitments. (Philippians 1:3-6)

Those who give little or nothing, excepting those in legitimate financial need, I refer to as customers. Customers have not taken ownership of the ministry. Customers are not givers -- they are takers. Customers will not commit and will be gone if the situation causes them affliction or there is a better deal down the street. Nothing I can say will change this. This change from customer to partner can come only through the Holy Spirit. I will pray for God’s will concerning finances to be discerned by all of us and I will pray for us to respond in obedience. I will pray for our customers to become partners -- the door is wide open.

The immediate problem is the monthly mortgage payment for the new addition. We committed to build this edifice and it is now time to pay for it. Up to this point the monthly payment, in the neighborhood of $7,000, has been augmented by money left in the building fund. These residual funds will soon be depleted. It is my understanding that the building fund will be replaced by the mortgage fund. We need to give to this fund separately once a month. I personally have decided to give $100.00 a month to this need in addition to our regular weekly contribution. I am able to do this by taking my afternoon break at the “Senior Center” where coffee and the newspaper is free in lieu of my regular hangout and I am also in recovery from my "Snickers addiction".

I invite your comments on my thoughts.

Eric Knight Bake Sale

2008-03-05T09:53:00.003-05:00

Bake Sale for Eric Knight

When: Friday, March 14, 2008
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
What: Cookies, Cakes, Pies, Candy, etc.
Where: Mt. Olive Lutheran Church

If you would like to make bake goods please contact Heather Greco or Kelsey Pagani

Gospel Gang News - March 2008

2008-03-04T12:37:00.004-05:00

The Lenten Season is upon us once again. During the month of March, the children will be learning about Lent and preparing to celebrate Easter during their weekly Bible Lessons and class time.
The children will be making Lenten pretzels from scratch. Back by popular demand, this is always a fun hands-on craft and snack.
Our Easter Celebration will be held on March 12. All children Pre-K 4 year olds through grade 5 are welcome to join us.
There will be NO Gospel Gang during Holy Week (March 19th).
A special thank you to Cheryl and Lynnsey Winkle for the delicious homemade pizza that they provided for our Gospel Gang snack.
Anyone wishing to share a craft or talent with our Gospel Gang children may do so by contacting Bonnie Hazelwood @ 724-847-0876.

March Schedule

March 5 - Regular Format 6:00-7:30
March 12 - Easter Celebration 6:00-7:30
March 19 - NO GOSPEL GANG - HOLY WEEK
March 26 - Regular Format 6:00-7:30

From the President....

2008-03-01T09:38:00.003-05:00

Church council met on February 17. I'm proud to report that the number of activities and ministries continues to grow. The e-newsletter contains many interesting articles. I especially enjoyed reading about the visit with Pastor Tom King. Thanks to Ron and Doreen Hietsch for the update and insight. What a great way to communicate to all of us back here at MT. Olive from Florida.

We have now seen some of the talents of Vicar Jonathon and Lisa Moyer. Ongoing Ambassadors for Christ is a fantastic ministry and was a great opportunity for so many to be a part of. I know the residents and employees at Franciscan Manor truly enjoyed the time spent there. Thank You to all who helped make the weekend possible.

The Parish fellowship committee tells us to mark April 26 on our calendars for the annual wine tasting. Also, congratulations to Kelsey (I stole my husbands recipe) Pagani on the great chili. On August 10, 2008 we will celebrate the 25 year anniversary of Pastor Pingel's installation at Mount Olive.

Knowledge exists in many places…
During World War II, it was determined that people had a lot of knowledge that could be used against the U.S. by axis powers. It was information gained from conversations with service men or from their letters.
In response, the slogan "Loose Lips Sink Ships!" was tacked on bulletin boards. And the slogan was spread across the country. Today, we have something like that problem in reverse. Instead of people talking too much when it comes to what they know, many people in our congregation are talking too little. We are blessed to have so many people with talent and experience, some who share it and some who have not yet. Many resist sharing simply because they are shy, others because they don't think anyone needs them to. Well, we do need you to. Every contribution could help make MT. Olive stronger. I am asking that you consider your area of expertise and to let us know. If there is a way you can contribute, please speak up.
In this case "Loose Lips Save Ships" - and Churches.

A Self Feeding Program for Pastors - and Their Church

2008-02-17T12:25:00.005-05:00

This article is primarily addressed to Pastors but is useful for all of us.

by Wayne Cordeiro
New Hope Christian Fellowship
DivineMentor.com
Honolulu, Hawaii
Your words were found and I ate them, and your words became for me a joy and the delight of my heart; for I have been called by Your name, O Lord God of hosts.
Jeremiah 15:16
The sullen staff member entered my office, saying only, “I think my season is up here.” I’d heard those words before from others. Over many years as a pastor I’ve welcomed people in and I’ve bid them adieu. For some, it was a normal part of growing and maturing, but this one would leave me confused. He had been with us four years. “Is there any reason why you feel your time may be up?” I asked.
“Well …” he hesitated, “I’m just not being fed here.”I hate those words, from a staff person or a church attender. Not because I’m insecure, but more because the very culture of New Hope, our church community, is designed to alleviate symptoms like these. For the past ten years, we have intentionally built a culture that includes a self-feeding program for each individual, beginning with our staff. The refusal of this responsibility opens the floodgates for a codependency of sorts---one that requires others to don the responsibilities God intends for every person.
I challenged him with this picture:
Imagine that my wife sees me one day, gaunt and emaciated. My eyes are sunken into gray sockets, my body is frail, exposing my skeleton; my abdomen is distended from starvation. I’ve obviously not been eating. When she sees me in this condition, she exclaims, “What in the world is happening to you?!”
My answer is: “I’m not getting fed around here.” Then, continuing my lament: “No one is feeding me.”
What do you think her response would be?
“Feed yourself!”
I then asked the staff member if he was doing his daily devotions. My words were met with an empty stare. I knew he had let this one life essential drop off his list of what was important to ministry success.
I accepted his resignation.
I remember a time when, as a pastor, I was in that same exact place, faced with the looming consequences of a nonexistent self-feeding program. I also recall having delegated that responsibility to others.
THE REALIZATION
Shortly after I became a Christian, I found myself complaining to God about the quality of my church’s academic-style preacher who often flew things at a high altitude where I was unable to cruise. I began my complaint in a bathroom after a service.
“God!” I called out, hoping I was alone in the men’s room. “I’m going to starve in this place! I’m not getting fed. I’m dying here, suffering from malnutrition!”
I’m not sure if it was a chuckle from the stall next to me or a reply from heaven, but I recall becoming acutely conscious of something as the Spirit spoke to me from the depths of my own anguished being.
What about ME? He seemed to whisper. Am I not enough? Why are you blaming others for your lack of growth? You are depending on once-a-week feedings, but as you grow up you must learn to feed yourself! I will be your Mentor.
My problem wasn’t a lack of resources; my problem was that I was expecting others to spoon-feed me. Until that point I’d resisted God’s best programs and his most gifted teacher, the Holy Spirit. He had been inviting me to be his student, but I’d remained unresponsive. I wanted others to do what only I could do: take responsibility for my own spiritual health and nourishment.
As I began to get into the Bible on my own, I saw that Psalm 32:8-9 struck at the core of my error.
I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you. Do not be as the horse or as the mule which have no understanding, whose trappings include bit and bridle to hold them in check, otherwise they will not come near to you.
I had to admit the ugly truth: I was that horse. I was that mule. It’s no fun making that confession. It was time for me to take responsibility for my own future.
THE LAST FIVE PERCENT
I hate to break the bad news to you, but about 80 percent of all you do, anyone can do! For example, going to work, attending meetings, checking e-mail, answering phones, going to soccer games and lunches and dinners.
Additionally, about 15 percent of all you do someone with some measure of training could do in your place. Whether it’s preaching a sermon, running a program, teaching a class, or fixing a problem, there are education and training available for someone else to do what you do.
But at least five percent of what you do, only you can do. No one else can do it for you.
Only I can be a husband to my wife, Anna. Only I can be a dad to my three children. Only I can keep my body healthy. And only I can grow spiritually! No one else can do the last five percent for me. I alone am responsible for it. Only you can keep yourself spiritually healthy by feeding yourself. No one can do it for you by proxy. The same is true for your church members.
It’s for this last five percent that each of us will be held accountable in that great and final day. It’s the last five percent that will determine the depth of influence we will have on the generations after us. It’s the last five percent of us that will decide how joyful our marriage will be and how genuine our legacy is.
And one of the most important aspects of the five percent is this: No one but you can sit before the Lord to hear his instructions for you! Jesus’ words again ring true as he speaks to you and me: “Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.”
The last five percent … it’s something we have to discover and then be responsible for.
.. Only I can be a husband/wife to my spouse... Only I can be a father/mother to my children... Only I can grow myself spiritually... Only I can keep myself healthy... Only I can keep myself disciplined.
I know I will need some help with these. I need coaching and mentoring. My big challenge still lies before me: applying what I learn.
Just as only one thing really is necessary, there’s only one place to find this help. Let me introduce you to someone who has been given the assignment to assure our foundations … if we will allow him.
TRUTH NEEDS A GUIDE
As a new believer I made a very common error. I wanted others to study hard and prepare well so they could dump bushels of knowledge into my brain.
I didn’t realize that knowledge---even biblical knowledge---is like sodium in raw form. Sodium can be destructive to humans … until it gets converted into a higher form: sodium chloride, or table salt. In the same way, knowledge is never an end in itself. It must be converted into a higher form---wisdom---for it to become useful and beneficial to us. To that end, God sends us the Holy Spirit, who will “guide us into all truth” … because truth needs a guide.
I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, that he may be with you forever; that is the Spirit of truth. But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth.
John 14:16-17; 16:13
Sure, we shepherd others. But they remain primarily responsible for their own spiritual well being. And as pastors, God has assigned his Spirit to be also our Guide---the Guide who will deposit God’s very wisdom into our lives.
So how does that work? Does the Divine Mentor implant information and insight into our subconscious minds while we sleep? Does he build a golden aqueduct between heaven and our soul, and then open wisdom’s floodgates so that it can pour directly into our minds?Not exactly.We receive direct revelation about God and discover his wonderful promises in only one place: the Bible. The psalmist cried out to the Lord, “You have exalted above all things your name and your word.” (Psalm 138:2 NIV)God’s Word, the Bible, is crucially important to our everyday lives. And don’t think obscure religious knowledge here. Think food. Think water. Think air. As a pastor who has worked with people for over 33 years, let me speak plainly: You won’t survive without God’s insight and wisdom. I’ve encountered many pastors and people who believe otherwise, and I’ve watched them implode. We gain all-important wisdom only as the Divine Mentor instructs us through a living interaction with and understanding of God’s Word.Our need for such a guide becomes increasingly vital as we get closer and closer to the end of history, for that is when spiritual deception will become most rampant.Paul warned his young disciple Timothy of a startling fact about living in the end times: There would be more false prophets than true ones! He cautioned that many people living in those days will have a strong tendency to be “always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.”Without the Guide, we can learn facts all day long and yet never move one inch closer to the truth that will make a difference in our lives. But with the Spirit imparting to us God’s wisdom as he reveals it to us from his Word, the whole picture changes. With the Lord as our Divine Mentor, the wisdom of the ages gradually becomes our own.

TRAVELING COMPANIONSDid you know that top athletes always rely on a coach? In terms of “equipment,” every superstar performer brings along more than clubs or rackets or cleats.I’ve heard people ask, “Why would they need a coach? They’re the best in the world!”That’s why they’re the best in the world. They cannot become and remain the best at what they do until they understand and apply the crucial essential of being coachable.This is equally true for each of us, so God designated and assigned some of history’s best mentors to us. Sometimes, they will keep us improving. Other times, they will just keep us alive.
By faith Abel offered to God a better sacrifice than Cain … and through faith, though he is dead, he still speaks.(James 1:9 NASB)
Abel speaks? This man goes all the way back to when man could still see angels with flaming swords barring the way to the Garden of Eden. He called Adam “Dad” and Eve “Mom.” He was the first man to ever die on planet Earth.
Abel goes back just a bit, don’t you think?Yet the Bible says this man still has something to say to you and me. He will take his place as an assigned mentor. And so will Noah, Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, Elijah, Nahum, John, and Peter. Likewise, Sarah, Deborah, Ruth, Naomi, Mary, Martha, Dorcas, and Priscilla. And scores of others. These men and women, though they no longer maintain an earthly address, wait to speak to you out of the living Word of God.They are waiting to mentor you---to encourage and correct you---just as a good coach will instruct his players. At times they will raise their voices, because they see you rushing toward a dead end. On other occasions they will stand in your path, like the angel with the drawn sword who blocked Balaam, and say, “You’re not going to do it.”When you want to take a left turn down a blind alley or head the wrong direction on a one-way street, it may be Jeremiah or Ezekiel or David who will exhort or reprove you. Regardless, these are phenomenal mentors to have on your side!I remember grumbling on the golf course one day about how terrible my round was going. (God always seems to answer my prayers, except on the links.)We were playing in a foursome, but I didn’t realize a fifth had joined us on the fourteenth green. Just as my grumblings were increasing in decibels, I heard James whisper, “Let the brother of humble circumstances glory in his high position.” In other words, “It could be worse!”Immediately I recognized the voice of someone I had just talked with that morning over coffee. I remember chuckling quietly and whispering to myself, “ Busted!”

A MULTITUDE OF MENTORSOver a period of about 1,500 years, God chose more than 40 different men to write down his divine words in a book. Just like he gave the angels assignments to be ministering spirits, so he’s given the people of his book the assignment to mentor you and me.I can’t think of a better mentor for a businessman than Solomon, who reached an unbelievable pinnacle of success while still a young man.I can’t think of a better mentor for a pastor than Moses. This great leader shepherded a congregation, not of thousands but of millions! We can walk with him through the desert and feel the sand’s heat on our toes. I can’t think of a better mentor for a professional than Luke, the physician, or for an educator than Paul, or for a mother than Mary. You get the idea. God has given these men and women the assignment to mentor his children in every facet of life. They live in the Scriptures by his power and breath, through his inspired Word.All these have gone before us, Scripture says. And now they’re in the grandstands, cheering us on. Isaiah, Sarah, Ezekiel, Mary, Matthew, Ruth, Daniel, Esther---all of them and many more stand ready and eager to mentor us.We have only to ask.
(Note: If there were one section that could be eliminated to abbreviate, this would be a candidate…)

THE GOOD AND THE BAD: LESSONS FROM BOTH SIDES
There are two basic kinds of mentors in the Bible. Most of them, like Abraham, Daniel, and James, are godly mentors. They teach us how to live wisely, how to please the heart of Almighty God.But the Bible also features many mentors who, through their examples of foolish or even evil living, teach us how not to live. God includes the stories of Cain, Esau, Ahab, Jezebel, Herod, and Judas, allowing their shrill voices to live on so that we do not make the same destructive choices they made. They provide potent illustrations that will speak to us from the downside of poor decisions. Solomon reminds us of this:
I passed by the field of the sluggardAnd by the vineyard of the man lacking sense,And behold, it was completely overgrown with thistles;Its surface was covered with nettles,And its stone wall was broken down.When I saw, I reflected upon it;I looked, and received instruction. (Proverbs 24:30-32)
A few years ago, a young man left Hawaii for a short time to enter a popular mission’s school of biblical studies. When he returned I asked him, “How were your classes?”He replied, “Some were dynamite! But some were a total waste.”“What do you mean?”“Some of the instructors were good, but the rest were awfully bad. So I didn’t learn much from them.”“No!” I challenged. “Don’t do that! You can learn as much from the bad as the good.”“You don’t understand,” he said, explaining his plight. “Some were so tedious, we were bored stiff within three minutes.”“That’s fantastic!”“What?”“You can learn valuable lessons from them,” I said. “Take notes on that. Let them read like this: ‘Our morning teacher is able to bore us to sleep in only three minutes. This has rarely been accomplished! This must be a miracle.’”I continued. “Analyze what he did: What made it so boring? Was it his monotone voice? Lack of research? Tired passion? If you can figure out how to learn from the bad as well as from the good, you’ll learn twice as much in life.”
That’s why God put into the Bible raw, unedited accounts of men and women behaving both wisely and foolishly. He handpicked these people to mentor us, the good and the bad together. Remember what Paul said? “ For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.”Lessons come from every angle. So get ready! The best gems will come from those ignoble characters who have left them behind … unclaimed. If you will go there, those treasures will belong to you!
Do you want your inheritance? Talking about our standing in Christ, as heirs to God’s promise to Abraham, Paul wrote: “As long as the heir is a child, he does not differ at all from a slave although he is owner of everything, but he is under guardians and managers until the date set by the father"Your inheritance is what God has in store for you, that latent treasure, that potentiality, those possibilities for your life. He keeps most of it under the guardianship of caretakers until you come of age. It’s almost as if the biblical mentors are caretakers who steward your inheritance until you come of age. So they will teach you, advise you, tutor you---mentor you---until you receive the fullness of what God intends for you.You have a divine inheritance waiting. This is held in abeyance, in trust, until you come to a point of maturity. So here’s the real question: How badly and how soon do you want your inheritance?

PURSUE THE BEST
The people around you are going to influence your life. The influences will be good or bad … so pursue the best ones. Don’t leave this to chance. Go after it!
He who walks with wise men will be wise,But the companion of fools will suffer harm.
Do you hear your mentor’s instructions? We become like those people we hang around with. As far as the “why,” you’ve probably heard the answer so often it sounds like a cliché. But it happens to be the truth. Wisdom is contagious. It’s something you catch more than something you comprehend.
If we want to be wise, we have to hang around wise men and women. You and I must diligently pursue those who will have the best and most uplifting influence on our lives.
“That’s fine,” you may be saying, “but I don’t have people like that in my life right now. In fact, many people I’m around in my family and at my job aren’t living the sort of life I want at all. Where do I find these wise men and women?”
Actually, they’re in close proximity---right this moment. They are Joseph, Daniel, Abigail, Isaac, Mary, Jacob, Ruth, Joshua, Esther, Josiah … the wisest people in history are waiting for you! When you hang out with them, their insights and perspective on life will rub off on you.
It doesn’t matter what age you are, what school you attend, what environment surrounds you---you can choose to be in the company of wise people. And you can start today.
Their voices continue to echo down the hallway of God’s house, and after thousands of years not one decibel has been lost through degeneration of sound. Their words are as alive today as the day they were first uttered.
Captured in a kind of time warp, these mentors steward potent lessons of life and wisdom, awaiting a diligent discoverer. The prophets still speak. The coaches still live. The guides await your visit. In fact, they covet your friendship and they expect your company. Listen to the writer of Hebrews, talking about the Bible’s men and women: “And all these … did not receive what was promised, because God had provided something better for us, so that apart from us, they would not be made perfect.”
Physical death did not terminate their lives. God gave them the eternal assignment to tutor future generations of his children. They received a divine commission to mature us. Apart from us, they wouldn’t be complete. They would have lived unfinished lives, because they are made complete only in us.
Discover these mentors as I have! I have oft strolled with David and listened to the sound of his harp in the hills. I have traversed the hot sands of the Sinai with Moses and listened to the Niagara of grumbling skeptics. I frequently have accompanied Solomon and listened to Wisdom shouting in the city square. I have even wrestled with Samson, begging for the answers to why he was so duped by Delilah.
These are real heroes who inspire us through their success and disciple us through their scars. We will walk alongside their rough, unedited lives, without pretense and with no best-foot forward performances.
They invite us to enter their dwellings. Are you with me? Our mentors are calling for us.
They’ve made their decision. The next one is ours.

A success Story

2008-02-12T13:45:00.000-05:00

On Sunday February 10, Doreen and I attended St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Lakeland, Florida. This was not our usual random vacation church visit. Pastor Tom King is on staff at St. Paul's.
We had a nice visit with Pastor Tom, Tami and the children. I left with an attitude of gratitude, however, for Mt. Olive. By watching Pastor Tom in action I felt deeply appreciative of the fact that Pastor Pingel was able to give him training and mentoring at Mt Olive. I couldn't help but reflect on the benefits that we receive by participating in the Vicar program. God will raise up Pastors whether we participate of not. God's work will happen with us or without us. We grow and are fed by being involved in this process. We are then partners in ministry - disciples - rather than customers of the church.

We went to Bible study, traditional worship, and contemporary worship (a lot like our Wednesday Services). The high point was the Baptism of twenty five children and adults and an additional sixteen members that joined the church on that day. Many of these baptisms and new members were the direct result of Pastor Tom's work in the school and his interaction with parents of the students. In part, Mt Olive was involved in this great celebration.

February Preschool News

2008-02-07T12:47:00.003-05:00

February started off with a visit from our little fury friend Puxatony Phil; who saw his shadow and now we will see six more weeks of winter! We will be having more visitors this month as well. February is childrens Dental Health month so Dr. Logan, our friendly neighborhood dentist, will come share with the children some good brushing habits and teach them that good eating habits go hand in hand with good brushing habits! Dr. Logan shares songs and stories, along with showing them items they will see at a dental office. Dr. Logan teaches them how important their teeth are for smiling, biting, chewing and talking! We really appreciate Dr. Logan's visit each year! We continue learning about God's Word and how much he loves us all through the stories of Jesus calms the storms, Jesus feeds the 5000, Jesus visits Martha and Mary, and Jesus blesses the children; as told by Pastor and Vicar Jonathan. Our Spanish introduction for the Pre-K students, which last until Cinco de Mayo in May, is underway. We thank Mrs. Lauren Gonzales for helping us this year - Mucho Gracias!! Of course, February brings Valentine's Day, we will be having our celebrations on the 13th and 14th. We have no school on the 18th, it is an in-service day.
Our service project for the month is St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Trike-A-Thon. A trike-a-thon rises vital research dollars for the battle against childhood catastrophic diseases, and at the same time provides a program in which preschool children are introduced to the concepts of tricycle and riding toy safety. The children learn about safety through a series of lessons that are a big hit, like to always wear you helmet! We would love to have you come visit and see the students participate in the trike-a-thon, which is scheduled for February 20th and 21st, starting around 10am both days. Help us help other children!
Our Chapel dates this month are the 27th and 28th, times are as follows; 11:00am, 11:30am, and 2:30pm for Pre-K and 10:30am, 11:00am, and 1:30pm for the 3 year olds. Please join us if you can! And what would the month of Fenruary be without celebrating the Hat-in-the-Cat's birthday! A special feline will be joining us for some green eggs and ham, on the 29th. Look for pictures on the preschool blog. If you would, while doing your grocery shopping please remember that we are still collecting Shop-n-Save receipts, which provides great programs to the preschool children through the S.E.E.D Program. Campbell's containers are out and located by the school rooms and in the greeting area. God bless you all for your constant support and love of the preschool and these programs. We can't thank the congregation enough for all you do in the love of children and Christ. If you have any questions about the preschool or any special talents you would like to share with our preschool students, please contact Debbie Levato at 724-847-7291, we are always looking for special and different experiences for the children.

From the Vicar

2008-02-06T12:14:00.000-05:00

The word “Lent” has an obscure origin, going back to the Middle English lente or the Germanic lenzin both meaning springtime. Lent is probably a corruption of similar terms in ancient Anglo, Saxon, and Germanic languages, all of which referred to spring, new life, and hope. Although it is generally considered to be a time of mourning and repentance, it is also designated as a time of new life and hope because by means of the death of Christ, we receive new life. Lent is a period of fasting and repentance.

Lent offers us all a very special opportunity to grow in our relationship with God and to deepen our commitment to a way of life rooted in our baptism. In our busy world, Lent provides us with an opportunity to reflect upon our patterns, to pray more deeply, to purify ourselves by fasting, experience sorrow for what we've done and failed to do and to be generous to those in need.

During Lent, Christians are to contemplate their sinfulness, repent, ask God’s forgiveness, and realize the infinite love and mercy of God. It is to be a time of quiet contemplation, but not a time of despair, since it culminates in the commemoration of the resurrection.[Source]

It is very fitting that Lent begin during the bleakness of winter. It reminds of the human condition, our frailty, our total dependence upon God, and our sinful nature. But just like the cold winter we look to the coming spring and the blessings promised us in the resurrection.

Some people often quip a 'very miserable Lent to you all' since most associate Lent with the 40 days of fasting prescribed by the Roman Catholic Church and the 40 days of fasting in the wilderness that Jesus endured in preparation of His ministry. For many Lent is miserable because we deny ourselves that which we crave; chocolate, alcohol, or day-time television. Rather than having a miserable Lent, have a blessed Lent.

More times than not I'd like to see people take something on rather than give something up. Spend more time in God's Word each day. Try to read through the New Testament over the next 40 days. Attend church and Bible study more faithfully. Fasting through Lent does not have to mean shedding an old habit, but can also mean enriching your meditation by taking on some new ones.

Let us never forget, however, that whatever we sacrifice; our time or our treasures, means nothing in comparison to the sacrifice that Jesus has already made. A very blessed Lent to you all!

Confessions of a Timid Evangelist

2008-01-30T12:19:00.000-05:00

By Scott Snow
Taken from The Lutheran Witness
http://www.lcms.org/pages/wPage.asp?ContentID=231&IssueID=18

There were more than a few occasions . . . when I would stand on the steps of a home . . . and secretly, quietly hope no one would be home, or that no one would answer the door.

I confess I started my journey as a witness for Jesus in a much more timid way than you might expect.

As a young boy, my family moved fairly often. We were always active members of local LCMS congregations, and while it must have taken place, I have no lasting impression of being encouraged to share my faith. I simply don’t remember that it was explained to me how, where, and when I might be able to witness.

As the years passed, and especially as I began my training for full-time church work, I was convinced that sharing the Christian faith was the most important task of the church and individual Christians. But I still didn’t know how to do it.

I took the one evangelism course the seminary offered when I was there, and I was very involved in preparing and training evangelism callers while I was on my vicarage. But even with this background, truth be told, there were more than a few occasions—on vicarage and even in the first parish I served—when I would stand on the steps of a home, having knocked on someone’s front door, and secretly, quietly hope no one would be home, or that no one would answer the door.

As I look back, I confess that I was nervous and afraid. What if I couldn’t remember the outline I had so carefully memorized? What if there were questions I couldn’t answer or, heaven forbid, if either my message or I were rejected?

But I remained convinced that Jesus was calling me—Jesus is calling all His children—to share Him with a world lost in sin. So in spite of my apprehension and timidity, I didn’t stop praying, going, and trying to tell others about Jesus, the only Savior of the world.

I’m delighted to tell you now that my faith-sharing journey is much different. I can’t point to one incident, one moment when “everything changed” and I lost my timidity, but gradually it has changed. Now I see witness opportunities not as fearful occasions but as Spirit-led moments to grow in relationship with others who also need to know Jesus as Lord and Savior. I can honestly say I look forward to the daily opportunities God gives me to share words of Christian encouragement and Gospel proclamation.

I have come to realize that as important and helpful as they are, it isn’t my theological training or my calling to be a pastor that gives me the ability to share my faith. Rather, as I think about sharing faith in Jesus, two things have become most helpful and important for me.

First, I am convinced of the love of God in Christ for me. Through faith I am certain that I am a precious, redeemed, blood-bought child of God, and I can’t help but share “what I have seen and heard.” Second, a great weight has been lifted from my shoulders when I realize that it is not my “job” to convert (or “evangelize circles around”) the person with whom I hope to share the Gospel. Rather, it is my true prayer and sincere desire to come to love—with the love of Christ—the person with whom I am talking. I want to love him or her enough to really listen to them, to get to know them and then through my witness to share God’s Word in a way that truly touches their lives “where they are.” God is changing lives and changing the world through such Christian witness!

Jesus said, “As the Father has sent Me, so I send you” (John 20:21). He calls each of us in this great church body to be involved in sharing the precious, life-giving message of the Gospel—every grandpa and grandma, boy and girl, mom and dad. Jesus calls us—you and me—to be the “salt of the earth” and “the light of the world” (Matt. 5:13–14). He wants us to flavor our conversations with the message of the Gospel, bringing the light of Christ into every relationship we have.

God puts us in places and in relationships with those all around us who are “unreached and unchurched.” With whom might God be calling you to share the Gospel? Your neighbor, co-worker, or classmate? The person sitting next to you on the airplane? An uncle or cousin? Your parents?

The apostle Paul once encouraged a young pastor named Timothy with words that still encourage us today: “For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord” (2 Tim. 1:7–8a).

By God’s grace, my confession of timid evangelism has now become a strong confession of faith-sharing. My prayer is that God would stir up a mighty outreach movement in the LCMS so that 2.5 million of us hear Jesus personally calling us to frequently, individually, and intentionally share our faith throughout our daily lives as God gives us opportunity! God bless us to that end.

---

Scott Snow

February Preschool News

2008-01-10T13:43:00.000-05:00

February started off with a visit from our little fury friend Puxatony Phil; who saw his shadow and now we will see six more weeks of winter! We will be having more visitors this month as well. February is childrens Dental Health month so Dr. Logan, our friendly neighborhood dentist, will come share with the children some good brushing habits and teach them that good eating habits go hand in hand with good brushing habits! Dr. Logan shares songs and stories, along with showing them items they will see at a dental office. Dr. Logan teaches them how important their teeth are for smiling, biting, chewing and talking! We really appreciate Dr. Logan's visit each year! We continue learning about God's Word and how much he loves us all through the stories of Jesus calms the storms, Jesus feeds the 5000, Jesus visits Martha and Mary, and Jesus blesses the children; as told by Pastor and Vicar Jonathan. Our Spanish introduction for the Pre-K students, which last until Cinco de Mayo in May, is underway. We thank Mrs. Lauren Gonzales for helping us this year - Mucho Gracias!! Of course, February brings Valentine's Day, we will be having our celebrations on the 13th and 14th. We have no school on the 18th, it is an in-service day. Our service project for the month is St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Trike-A-Thon. A trike-a-thon rises vital research dollars for the battle against childhood catastrophic diseases, and at the same time provides a program in which preschool children are introduced to the concepts of tricycle and riding toy safety. The children learn about safety through a series of lessons that are a big hit, like to always wear you helmet! We would love to have you come visit and see the students participate in the trike-a-thon, which is scheduled for February 20th and 21st, starting around 10am both days. Help us help other children!
Our Chapel dates this month are the 27th and 28th, times are as follows; 11:00am, 11:30am, and 2:30pm for Pre-K and 10:30am, 11:00am, and 1:30pm for the 3 year olds. Please join us if you can! And what would the month of Fenruary be without celebrating the Hat-in-the-Cat's birthday! A special feline will be joining us for some green eggs and ham, on the 29th. Look for pictures on the preschool blog. If you would, while doing your grocery shopping please remember that we are still collecting Shop-n-Save receipts, which provides great programs to the preschool children through the S.E.E.D Program. Campbell's containers are out and located by the school rooms and in the greeting area. God bless you all for your constant support and love of the preschool and these programs. We can't thank the congregation enough for all you do in the love of children and Christ.
If you have any questions about the preschool or any special talents you would like to share with our preschool students, please contact Debbie Levato at 724-847-7291, we are always looking for special and different experiences for the children.

He Loves to Be with the Ones He Loves by Max Lucado

2008-01-05T12:15:00.000-05:00

Holiday travel. It isn’t easy. Then why do we do it? Why cram the trunks and endure the airports? You know the answer. We love to be with the ones we love.
The four-year-old running up the sidewalk into the arms of Grandpa.
The cup of coffee with Mom before the rest of the house awakes.
That moment when, for a moment, everyone is quiet as we hold hands around the table and thank God for family and friends and pumpkin pie.
We love to be with the ones we love.
May I remind you? So does God. He loves to be with the ones he loves. How else do you explain what he did? Between him and us there was a distance—a great span. And he couldn’t bear it. He couldn’t stand it. So he did something about it.
Before coming to the earth, “Christ himself was like God in every-thing.… But he gave up his place with God and made himself nothing. He was born to be a man and became like a servant” (Phil. 2:6–7 NCV).
Why? Why did Jesus travel so far?
I was asking myself that question when I spotted the squirrels outside my window. A family of black-tailed squirrels has made its home amid the roots of the tree north of my office. We’ve been neighbors for three years now. They watch me peck the keyboard. I watch them store their nuts and climb the trunk. We’re mutually amused. I could watch them all day. Sometimes I do.
But I’ve never considered becoming one of them. The squirrel world holds no appeal to me. Who wants to sleep next to a hairy rodent with beady eyes? (No comments from you wives who feel you already do.) Give up the Rocky Mountains, bass fishing, weddings, and laughter for a hole in the ground and a diet of dirty nuts? Count me out.
But count Jesus in. What a world he left. Our classiest mansion would be a tree trunk to him. Earth’s finest cuisine would be walnuts on heaven’s table. And the idea of becoming a squirrel with claws and tiny teeth and a furry tail? It’s nothing compared to God becoming a one-celled embryo and entering the womb of Mary.
But he did. The God of the universe kicked against the wall of a womb, was born into the poverty of a peasant, and spent his first night in the feed trough of a cow. “The Word became flesh and lived among us” (John 1:14 NRSV). The God of the universe left the glory of heaven and moved into the neighborhood. Our neighborhood! Who could have imagined he would do such a thing.
Why? He loves to be with the ones he loves.
From Next Door Savior Available in Hardback or Paperback Copyright (W Publishing Group, 2003) Max Lucado

Lies that hinder us from witnessing

2008-01-03T15:33:00.000-05:00

If you have a desire to share your faith but don't, you might be buying into a lie. The enemy uses lies to keep us from sharing the Gospel with others. It is important that we seek out God's truth - from His word - to be set free from lies and to share the Gospel without restraint. Here are three commonly believed lies and, more importantly, the truth that comes from God:
Lie #1: I am not worthy to share the Gospel message.
The truth: You have been chosen to proclaim the wonderful acts of God: "You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light" (1 Peter 2:9). If God chose you, you are certainly good enough to share the Gospel! Remember: "I can do everything through him who gives me strength" (Philippians 4:13).

Lie #2: I should be ashamed to share the Gospel with my friend or family member because they know my past failures - they know I'm not perfect.
The truth: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come" (2 Corinthians 5:17). Through Christ's forgiveness, you are a new person. You once lived in darkness but Christ brought you into His glorious light. This is the greatest testimony of all! If you can be a new person, they certainly can too! Remember: It's not about you or your shortcomings: It is about God's goodness. Take the spotlight away from you and point it to Christ. Because of Christ, we no longer need to live in shame and neither do they! "God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline" (2 Timothy 1:7)..

Lie # 3. I'm not knowledgeable enough to share. I won't have all the answers.
You don't need a degree to be a witness of Christ. He has done amazing things in your life. All you need to do is go and tell your story of what He has done for you. He is so good! And, just by having a couple verses highlighted and ready, you will have the whole story ready to tell! The Gospel:
"We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life" (Romans 6:4).

When they say, "Wow, I want what you have. How do I get that?"

Romans 10:9 -10: "If you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved."

Do not believe these lies that you are unworthy or unable to share the Gospel message of Jesus Christ. God has given us the power and has given us His Spirit that is with us always, making all things possible:

"With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26).

From: Lutheran Hour Ministries "Equipping Newsletter"

New to this newsletter? Subscribe to this or other newsletters at http://www.lhm.org/email/login.asp

From the Pastor...January 2008

2008-01-02T10:13:00.000-05:00

Luke 2:19 "But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart."

In the 14th century Thomas Tusser wrote the following little rhyme:

"At Christmas play and make good cheer,
For Christmas comes but once a year."

Indeed it does. In fact, many of us would say, THANK GOD it does! But it is kind of wonderful. Then, like Cinderella, we know that when the clock strikes 12, it's back to the real world in which we live.

The post Christmas slump is not imaginary. Since Halloween, our whole lives have been oriented around Christmas. And once it's over, it's not always easy to put our lives back together. Scotch tape and ribbon won't do the trick. And so we go through a kind of withdrawal. There may be loneliness as family and friends depart for home. We discover that the problems we faced before Christmas are still there. Bills begin arriving in the mail. A kind of weariness sets in in the wake of high celebration.

But God in sending his Son did not intend to create a festival designed to propel us into the dumpers. God is not some cosmic Santa Claus who empties his bag of goodies and then departs for the North Pole. God in the person of his Son comes to stay. He comes to changes lives for the better.

Many preachers will tell their congregations to "keep the Christmas spirit" which amounts to moralizing--somehow by an act of will we will keep the spirit of charity and good will alive. But on our own we are quite incapable of doing so. How are we to spread good cheer when we our ourselves down in the dumps?

The answer is in the God who empowers us for living. The Christmas Gospel displays three personalities helpful to us in this matter.

The first personality is Mary, Mother of our Lord. At the departure of the shepherds, she is pictured contemplating all that has happened to her. We move quickly to Simeon, who seeing the Christ Child, embraces him and holds him close and declares him to be God's salvation; and Anna, the prophetess, who seeing the Child engages in the joyful task of telling others about his arrival.

The first antidote to the post Christmas slump is to, like Mary, treasure up what we have experienced and ponder these things in our heart. On Christmas eve, some tremendous things happened. The Good News of a Savior's birth was proclaimed. We learned of God's great love for us, the fact that we have a Savior who understands our deepest yearnings and feels our pain, who is stands ready and willing to hear our prayers, who comes to us through Word and Sacrament. Life will not be easy, any more than it was easy for the Holy Family who had to flee to Egypt to escape Herod's wrath. But God will be with us and deliver us. There are times when our hearts will be pierced through with grief. But even then we are not alone, for God is truly with us: "Emmanuel."

The second antidote to the post Christmas slumpers is to, like Simeon, to go into the temple courts continuously, in order to recieve Christ. Simeon was in the habit of hanging around the house of God. We need to be found in God's house and recieve communioni regularly. And, like Simeon, we need to embrace and hold fast the Christ. Simeon took the holy Child in his arms held him close. We have the opportunity to do the same.

And finally, we see Anna the Prophetess, 84 years old. Having seen baby Jesus, she "gave thanks to God and spoke about him to all who were in Jersualem." Out of concern for others, she began to spread the good news. We avoid the slumpers and keep the spirit as we engage and remain active in the mission of the Church, within the context of the fellowship of believers.

Bill Rittenhouse in the Baptist record writes of an expeience that he had while driving in Kansas. He passed a station wagon with luggage on top of it. One of the pieces of luggage fell off. He stopped and opened it and the only clue to the owner's identity was a box with a rubber band around it that had a $20 gold piece between two layers of cotton. On one side of the gold piece were the words: "Twenty years of loyal and faithful service." On the other side it read: "Persented to Otis Simpson by Northwestern State Portland Cement Company." So Rittinghouse wrote 75 cities in the Northwest to find this person. And finally he got a letter back from Mr. Simpson.. The man told him to dispose of the suitcase and all the contents except the gold piece--for, he said, "this is my most precious possession."

And so Rittinghouse answered his letter and enclosed the gold piece, but he took the opportunity to tell him of his most precioius possession. He told him of how precious his family was to him, and how precious his life--he had survived prison camp in World War II. "But" he said,"whereas these things are extremely precious to me, my most precious possession is Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior." He dropped the letter in the mail.

About a year later at Christmas back came the little white box with the same $20 gold piece in it, with a letter attatched. It read: "Last week my wife and I were baptized in a little church in Colorado. We want you to carry the gold piece with you at all times now, for we are old people, 74 and 72 respectively. But YOU were the first one to tell us about Jesus Christ, and now he is our most precious possession."

Mary, Simeon, Anna, three personalities associated with the Christmas story. Three personalities placed in the narrative by God to help us avoid the post Christmas slumpers, that the joy of Christmas remain alive in us throughout the year.

Newsletter Updates

2007-12-04T12:08:00.000-05:00

News
The newsletter is coming along quite nicely and I appreciate all the feedback. If you'd like to help participate or be a regular contributor, please contact me. I would like to offer some informal training on Monday nights at 7:00 for anyone who wants to learn more about assisting with the newsletter and/or Power Point in church.

Groups and Organizations
I'd like to see each of Mt. Olive's various groups have a representative who is able to contribute to the newsletter. It's no more difficult than sending an email. I can also help set up separate pages for each group. For an example see what the preschool has done. If your group already has it's own website, let me know the address and I will add it here.

Links
I've added some new links and am always looking for more. If I'm missing something let me know.

2007 Gingerbread House Party Pictures

2007-12-03T11:18:00.000-05:00

Gospel Gang News - December 2007

2007-12-03T10:23:00.000-05:00

Our annual Thanksgiving Feast was once again a wonderful foretaste of the actual day of Thanksgiving. We were truly blessed with generous donations of food, prepared and served by willing hands.

With the Christmas season soon upon us, the children will be learning about Advent during their class time as well as during our opening.

Gospel Gang is for all children Pre-K (4 year olds) through grade 5. Gospel Gang is fully staffed by 8-10 volunteers each week. If you would like to join our staff, please call Bonnie Hazelwood @ 724-847-0876.

We will finish out the month of December with Jesus' Birthday Celebration and gift exchange on Dec. 19. Each child should bring a wrapped $1.00 gift suitable for either a boy or girl to put under the tree.

Gospel Gang will resume on January 2nd, 2008.

"The Golden Compass" --Not for Children

2007-11-30T18:14:00.000-05:00

The Golden Compass Brings Nietzsche to Narnia: The Philosophical Underpinnings of His Dark Materials By Marc. T. Newman Ph.D --Taken from "Movie Ministry Weekly Newsletter"

Do not be deceived by the beautiful covers on this book series. Underlying much of the author's fiction is Friedrich Nietzsche's -- a German philosopher whose work was influential with the Third Reich. Parents, it is important to take the time to read the rest of this post.

The Golden Compass Brings Nietzsche to Narnia: The Philosophical Underpinnings of His Dark Materials
by Marc T. Newman, Ph.D.

When parents look at the beautiful covers adorning the gift-boxed sets of Philip Pullman’s fantasy series, His Dark Materials, they might be forgiven for believing that these books follow in the tradition of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings or C.S. Lewis’ The Chronicles of Narnia. In fact, the publishers are counting on it. The display tables have arrived just in time for Christmas and the release of the screen adaptation of the first volume: The Golden Compass.

What Pullman’s promoters desperately hope is that parents will not get beyond the colorful covers, which appear to depict nothing more than an action/fantasy series filled with talking animals, exciting battles, and a child protagonist. What they desperately fear is that parents will discover the dark and sinister philosophy that unfolds within the pages of Pullman’s work – a philosophy that condones the killing of children to advance knowledge; disparages virtue and glorifies cunning; and which poses the idea that the solution to humanity’s problems is the killing of God. In short, the philosophy that underlies much of Pullman’s fiction is Friedrich Nietzsche’s – a German philosopher whose work was influential with the Third Reich.

Nietzsche’s major philosophical ideas include the Will to Power, the Superman, and the myth of the Eternal Return. While the third idea is hinted at in the last book in the series, it is the first two ideas that fill the pages of His Dark Materials. It is important for pastors and parents to understand these concepts so that they can be prepared to talk about their impact. Briefly, then, I will sketch these ideas, then show how they appear in The Golden Compass and throughout His Dark Materials, and finally demonstrate how these books – aimed at children -- attempt to inculcate Nietzsche’s worldview.

Nietzsche’s View of the Way the World Works

The Will to Power

The main theme running throughout the writings of Nietzsche, gaining full force in his work, Thus Spoke Zarathustra, is that life is a demonstration of a will to power. Nietzsche rejected external authority, arguing that since all morality is subjective – a mere expression of the will of others – there is no reason why any one morality should be preferred. What marks humanity, Nietzsche argued, is a desire to assert one’s own will, or, in other words, to do that which is right in one’s own eyes.

Dana Villa, the Packey J. Dee Professor of Political Science at Notre Dame, explains that Nietzsche’s belief in the lack of absolute values – a lack of an objectively “true world” – leads to the destruction of “shared appearances” (291). As a result, to the extent that there are any values in the world, they ultimately find their grounding only in the perspective of the person doing the valuing, and in no other. Nietzsche advocated absolute moral autonomy. To illustrate, Nietzsche, in The Antichrist, defines “the good” as:

All that enhances the feeling of power, the Will to Power, and power itself in man…Not contentment, but more power; not peace at any price, but war; not virtue, but efficiency…The weak and the botched shall perish: first principle of our humanity. And they ought even to be helped to perish. (128)

Nietzsche scholar George Allen Morgan identifies four key “sins” – lust, thirst for mastery, self-seeking, and cruelty – that, under Nietzsche, are revalued as “goods:” lust is the good which draws toward the future; thirst for mastery drives the powerful to exercise their power over lower people; self-seeking is the source of discriminating taste and causes refinement; and cruelty leads to a lusty vitality (180-181). The masterful types will exert their will to power over lower types, and the extent of their mastery will be measured in their ability to do so. Morgan declares for Nietzsche that “True advance is measured by the mass of humanity sacrificed to ‘the growth of a single stronger species of man’”(81). Ultimately, this planned evolution is designed to breed the superman.

The Superman

In order for Nietzsche’s ultimate expression of the will to power to arise – the superman – it is first necessary to kill God. In Thus Spoke Zarathustra, Nietzsche portrays the murder of God at the hands of The Ugliest Man, who chokes God to death on His own pity.

Theologian Norbert Schiffers explains Nietzsche’s position:

With his own instinct for the good, man is strong enough to be ashamed of his belief in the God who alone is good. Even before The Will to Power Nietzsche makes his man with the instinct for the good, his Zarathustra, say that to his eyes and ears God goes against his taste. It is in the power of this instinct and with this taste that Nietzsche says in full awareness: the God of metaphysics, the God of the Moralists, the God, too, of a Christian philosophy – they are dead. (71)

The superman is the embodiment of the will to power and makes up an aristocratic class that rules over Nietzsche’s other two types of people: the higher men and the herd classes (Fowler 157). According to University of Warwick philosopher Keith Ansell-Pearson, such a person, freed from any cultural or theological moral restraints, “is master of a free will, and which gives him mastery over himself, over nature, over less fortunate creatures who have not succeeded in achieving sovereignty” (278-279).

With the “repressive” moral power of the dead god removed, the superman is free to express and develop his will to power. The superman stands atop the hierarchy of humanity. To those not yet among his peers, even to those of the “higher men” he would be a being fearful to behold. “Since man must become ‘better and worse,’ a superman will possess the ‘evil’ urges to maximum intensity; his kindness would be terrible; the best of us would call him a devil” (Morgan 175). It is Nietzsche’s supermen – filled with will to power – that seek the death of God in His Dark Materials.

Bringing Nietzsche to Narnia

His Dark Materials are fantasy novels aimed at the youth market. They tell the story of Lyra and Will, two twelve-year-old children who are major actors in a titanic struggle between God and humanity. The first book, The Golden Compass, seems to deliberately borrow from C.S. Lewis’ The Chronicles of Narnia. In both books, the action begins when a little girl hides in a wardrobe. Both books contain magic and talking animals. When we are introduced to Lyra, she is living at Oxford University – where Lewis went to school and, later, taught Medieval Literature while composing the bulk of his books. It is also the university from which Pullman received his bachelor’s degree. Lucy, in The Lion The Witch, and the Wardrobe, rides on the back of Aslan, the Great Lion. Lyra, in The Golden Compass, rides on the back of Iorek, a great armored bear.

But when it comes to morality and redemption, the worlds created by Lewis and Pullman could not be farther apart. Lewis’ world is infused with Christian imagery. Within The Chronicles of Narnia a reader would encounter everything from Creation and Fall, to the death, burial and resurrection of Aslan (the Christ figure), to discipleship, and even The Second Coming and the End of the World. The central idea of Narnia is that there the children can learn to know and love Aslan, so that later, when they have grown up, they might more easily recognize Him (as Jesus) here.

In His Dark Materials, Pullman has crafted a world in which the most natural thing would be to desire the death of God. Pullman stated, in an interview with The Sydney Morning Herald, that “My books are about killing God.” Like Nietzsche, Pullman needs God to be dead in order to liberate humanity from what Pullman deems a repressive, absolutist morality so that people will be free to be themselves – by which he means to follow their human nature, to be what nature intended them to be without supernatural interference or restraint.

The human embodiment of this oppression is The Church. Pullman cleverly constructs his ecclesiastical universe so that Catholicism and Protestantism can be derided together. He accomplishes this by having John Calvin, in this alternative universe, elected Pope (GC 30). Calvin moves the papacy to Geneva, and then the office is dissolved upon his death, though the institutional structures – such as the Magisterium and the General Oblation Board – are maintained.

The Church is filled with power-hungy zealots. Its leaders are greedy abusers of the poor. As an institution, it is to be feared. The archbishop is described as a “hateful old snob” (GC 84). The Church operates the General Oblation Board which lures children from the streets, and then spirits them away to a place where they become the subjects of an frightening blend of medical and theological experimentation in which their externalized souls are separated from their bodies. Pullman’s world is populated by Christians who are inquisitors and witch burners. When the reader reaches the third book, The Amber Spyglass, Pullman introduces a priest, Semyon Borisovitch, who is described as fat, with dirty fingernails, a soiled cassock, and a long, unkempt beard. He is a drunk, his place reeks of tobacco. Pullman stops just shy of revealing Semyon as a pedophile when twelve-year-old Will comes knocking at his door: “The priest kept leaning forward to look closely at him, and felt his hands to see whether he was cold, and stroked his knee” (AS 98). Later, after plying the boy with vodka, the priest hugs Will “tightly” while apparently praying for him. The scene is written to appear creepy, and to build mistrust. And if there is any lingering doubt, Pullman has Mary, an attractive character, tell the children that “The Christian religion is a very powerful and convincing mistake, that’s all” (AS 441). If these are God’s representatives, then God must be a fraud, unworthy of our allegiance.

Will to Power and the Supermen

The Nietzschean heroes of His Dark Materials who are tasked with toppling God include Lyra and Will, and by the end of the series, even Lyra’s parent, Mrs. Coulter and Lord Asriel shed what at first appears to be “bad guy” status to become the first martyrs in the battle to destroy the Kingdom of Heaven to replace it with the Republic of Heaven. Other heroes include Iorek Byrnison – an armored bear whose kingdom has been usurped, and Serafina Pekkala, the queen of a clan of witches. As Pullman draws out each character, it is clear what he finds compelling about them: their rejection of God and the absolute morality God represents, and their will to power. Here is a brief sketch:

Lyra, as her name suggests, is a notorious liar – and she benefits by it. Ma Costas, a gyptian boat wife, tells Lyra that it is a compliment in their culture to be considered effectively deceptive (GC 112). Lyra maneuvers through the adult world, getting what she wants by manipulation, pretense, and cunning. She occasionally speaks frankly about killing her enemies, or making others do the killing for her (SK 163). She is an apple that has not fallen far from the tree.

Will does not appear until the second book in the series: The Subtle Knife. He is aptly named. Will gets what he wants by determination or force. Will kills people, and threatens to kill Lyra if she gets in his way (SK 61). To get the titular knife, Will must fight the current possessor for it. To the victor goes the spoils or, in other words, might makes right. Learning to use the knife to cut a hole between worlds is Will’s epiphany. Lyra describes the scene as seeing an authority descend upon Will – but that it is Will’s authority; he is creating it. In a confrontation with angels (who turn out to be weaker than humans), Will says, “If I’m stronger, you have to obey me. Besides, I have the knife. So I can command you: help me find Lyra” (AS 11).

Mrs. Coulter, Lyra’s mother, does not ascend to superman status (though she is very close), but from her introduction in The Golden Compass she fits into Nietzsche’s “higher man” category. She runs the General Oblation Board for the Church, uses her charm to snatch children, mercilessly experiments on them, uses sex as a weapon, brutally tortures prisoners, and treats others in the Church as inferiors. She is admired by Lyra for her style, grace, power and passion. Readers are encouraged to applaud Mrs. Coulter’s defection from the Church, and are expected to overlook her many atrocities (Mrs, Coulter never repents of them) once her love for Lyra is revealed.

Lord Asriel, Lyra’s father, is described as an explorer, easily angered and passionate, with “a hatred of priors and monks and nuns” (GC123). He is a man who is not to be defied. He murders Lyra’s friend, Roger, to pull energy from him as part of a successful experiment to build a bridge to another world. Despite that, his raw power excites in Lyra grudging admiration. By the final book, Lord Asriel has assembled a large army that he intends to lead into battle to defeat God – an army favorably compared to the one commanded by Lucifer when there was a war in heaven, eons past. One character notes Lord Asriel’s limitless ambition, “He dares to do what other men and women don’t even dare to think” (SK 47). Loved and feared, Lord Asriel is a Superman.

Iorek and Serafina represent states of nature. Each wants to be left alone to live life as nature intended. The Church has polluted bear culture; the new king of the bears wants to be baptized as a Christian, and wishes to model his kingdom after the humans. Iorek rejects this move with disgust, ultimately fighting and defeating the weaker bear king. Serafina chronicles centuries of abuse by the Church. She explains that Christianity has always suppressed nature and has been against every good feeling. She declares that if a war breaks out, the witches only need to align themselves against the Church and they will be on the right side.

These are Role Models?

All of these characters embody, to varying degrees, Nietzsche’s idea of Will to Power. They reject any morality as having authority over them. They are people of command. Whether the issue is sexual license, lying, torture, or killing – they all feel justified in doing as they will to obtain their desired results. They serve themselves, and they revel in power. These are the role models that Pullman has served up to impressionable children looking for vacation reading. They don’t even know it yet, but once Pullman hooks them with the sanitized version represented by the screen adaptation of The Golden Compass – a move that will likely lull many parents into complacency about the books – then he will have the freedom to use his fantasy series to pour into their hearts Nietzsche’s terrible lessons.

There is, however, a potential silver lining. Christians can explain that the desire to transcend our own humanity is not, in itself, evil. Nietzsche tried to accomplish that transcendence from below – a weak creature willing itself to power. God, however, can provide it from above. God promises to everyone who comes to Him in faith not some bland sameness, as if we were nothing more than members of the herd, but real true individuality. As Bernhard Welte points out, the Lord has promised to inscribe His name on our foreheads (Rev. 22:4). Welte explains the significance of that promise for believers:

That means that God’s name, that is, the superhuman and divine radiance is inscribed on the human forehead as, therefore, the radiance of man himself. It indicates the authentic superhumanity of man. It does not arise from the self-intensification of the finite will, but much more as a pure gift from above, in the setting of the City of which it is written that it descends from heaven, from God, and therefore cannot be constructed from below. (57)

The Hammer of God ----- a Novel by Bo Giertz

2007-11-23T06:46:00.000-05:00

This is a book Doreen borrowed from Vicar Jon. The book deals with struggles that we all have understanding our sinful natures. This short excerpt is an excellent illustration of how only God's Grace can save us. This is an good evangelism tool for people we encounter who rely on works righteousness or who confuse law and Gospel. -----Special thanks to Samantha Hietsch for typing this excerpt.

To begin with, this struggle against sin is pure joy to the awakened soul. It is as when a home owner begins to clear the land around his new house. The stones fly and the spade digs happily. But when a person is at work on the field of his heart, he gradually makes the dismaying discovery that there are more stones the deeper he gets. He keeps discovering new sins right along, and they become more difficult to move the more deeply they are entrenched in his inner life. One might possibly break with drinking and profanity and desecration of the Sabbath in a single evening, But pride, that desire to talke about oneself, or to find fault with others are likely to remain still after many months of penitential struggle.
Then one day, when a man is battling sin and is trying to clear the stones from the heart’s field, sweating at the task yet hoping finally to get rid of the last ones so that he may really see the garden grow, his spade strikes solid rock. He digs and scrapes on every side; he tries again and again to budge the rock. Then the terrible realization draws; it is stony ground through and though. When he has hauled away load after load of stones and dumped them outside the fence, he still has not succeeded in making a garden that can begin to bear fruit for God. He has laid bare a ledge of granite, which never can support a living, fruit-bearing tree,
This is the rock foundation we know as the sinful corruption of our human nature, the sinful depravity that remains even after a man has separated himself from all his conscious sins. It is this stony ground that explains why a man is just as great a sinner before God after he has offered God the best he is able to give of obedience and commitment.
Standing on this rock foundation of sinful corruption, a man has three possible choices. He may depart from God in unbelief as Judas did. That road leads to death. He can make a show of clearing away the stones, as the Pharisees did. The stones that are visible to men may then be put away. One becomes temperate, honest, industrious. One may take a bit of this soil of the self-righteousness and plant therein such flowers as will be a sweet fragrance to one’s own nostril’s, such as kindness, helpfulness, support of missions, zealous activity for kingdom causes, witnessing, and preaching, or perhaps an extreme abstinence in respect to food and drink. And then one walks among these flowers and considers that the work is completed. But in the sight of God the rock foundation remains, and on Judgment Day the flowers have long since withered.
The most dangerous of all temptations is to tamper with the yardstick. God has sent His Holy Spirit to convince the world of sin. The Spirit dwells in the Word. Did not Jesus say to the words He spoke that they are spirit? He who strays from the Word will never be convicted of sin; in any case, he will never know the terrifying depths of sin. He never gets down to the rock foundation. It is with him as with the farmer in the legend, who was to build a bridge. He took a tapeline into the woods to measure with. But when he measured the longest poles they were nevertheless too short. Then he cut off a part of the measuring line and declared that the poles would be tall enough. Even the holiest and strictest adherents of the cult of absolute obedience are careless in the same way when they believe that they can stand in the test before God even for a moment by virtue of their works of the law. They have shortened the measure. They use a tapeline that is like a rubber band. It is called one’s feelings, one’s conscience, or one’s own perception of God’s will. These can all be stretched or pressed together, consciously or unconsciously, so that they fit most anything. There are two signs of falsifying the measure that are inescapably sure. One is that a person considers himself, his deeds and his life good enough to find acceptance with God; the other is that he calls that right which the Word of God calls wrong.
Only he who acknowledges God’s Word without objecting to it or seeking to reduce it, and who accepts it wholly as God’s Word, gets down to the rock foundation of the heart and discovers the law of sin that swells in his members. Only such a one understands that he needs not only repentance, but salvation. But when he understands that, if he is to be saved at all, he must be saved by grace, that is a work of God. It was to that place he wanted to lead the soul, when he laid bare the rock foundation.
At his point the speaker made a sudden shift in his line of thought and began to speak about something altogether different.
Outside Jerusalem, there is a hill of yellow, naked stone. Ugly and hard as a dead man’s skull. Long ago men bored a socket in this rocky hill and planted a cross there, and on that cross they hanged the only One of our race who was righteous and had perfectly fulfilled the law. God permitted this to happen because, although He had tolerated sin in former ages, He wanted once and for all to show that He was righteous and that sin is followed by condemnation and punishment, and the He will not countenance any tampering with His standards of holiness. But so wonderful is God that he let all the curse and penalty of sin fall upon the innocent One, who freely gave himself in death for us. He was made a curse for our sakes. Thus He redeemed us from the condemnation of the law. He was made sin for us that we might become the righteousness of God. He bore our sins in His own body on the tree, and by His stripes we are healed.
That is why the rocky hill of Golgotha is the most holy place in the world. The way of obedience leads to the foot of that cross. There one stands, a poor wretch, like Peter on that first Good Friday, full of shame and despair, looking upon his crucified Savior, whom he had been unable to follow. There it becomes apparent that the Lord’s best disciples are unworthy of Him. They are all betrayers and deniers, sharing in the guilt of His death. But there, at the cross, it also becomes clear that the Lord himself makes atonement for their sins. Where the way of obedience ends at Golgotha with judgment upon us, every one who believes may nevertheless stand on this Rock of Atonement. There are way of grace begins, the new and holy way through the veil, the way that is sanctified by His blood.
The stony soil of our hearts, the rock foundation of our corrupt human nature, needs not, therefore, be the basis for judgment upon us. It can be sprinkled with the blood of Jesus, just as the hill of Golgotha was when drops of blood fell upon it and it was transformed from a place of execution to the Rock of Atonement. God marks the evil heart with the sign of the cross and makes a man righteous in Christ. The whole sinful rock of man’s natural heart is lifted and made to rest on the Rock of Atonement. It still remains flinty rock. Man, as he is in himself, remains a sinner. But the guilt is atoned for, the curse is lifted, and he can come confidently as a child into the presence of God and, thankful for the wonder of redemption, begin to live to the Savior’s glory. Then the fruits of faith begin to appear. A fertile soil now covers the rocky base. It is the good soil of faith, which is watered by grace. Gradually something begins to grow that would never grow there before. Thus the backsliding Peter, when he had experienced the great grace, the grace which the penitent thief received on Calvary, could become both an apostolic leader and a martyr witness to the faith. Yes, he then witnessed no longer concerning his faith, but concerning the Savior, and could finally make the supreme sacrifice of his own life with confidence, the sacrifice he was unable to make as long as he lived by his own resolutions and his own righteousness.
The rector made a momentary pause. Then he began a new line of thought. It was apparent that he was improvising.
The stone foundation of the heart and the Rock of Atonement of Golgotha are the two mountains on which a man’s destiny is determined. If he remains on the stone foundation of his natural fallen state, he is lost. Only one way leads from that stony foundation to the Rock of Atonement, a firm stone bridge built once and for all. It is the Word. Just as only the divine Word can convict man of sin and lat bare the soul to its rocky case, so nothing but the Word can reveal the truth about the Redeemer. The external Word is as inescapably necessary for the gospel as it is for the law. No one who is awakened in earnest would ever be able to believe in the forgiveness of his sins, if God has not built a bridge leading to the Rock of Atonement. The supports on which it rests are baptism, the Lord’s Supper and absolution; the archers are wrought by the holy Word with it’s message of redemption. On that bridge a sinner can pass from the stony ground the condemns to the Rock of Salvation. But should a single one of the arches be allowed to fall, then is man condemned to remain eternally under the law’s condemnation, either as a despairing sinner or as a self-righteous Pharisee.

Pictures from Oktoberfest '07

2007-11-20T12:46:00.001-05:00

Ceiling tile in Greeting Area

2007-11-19T23:30:00.000-05:00

On Saturday Nov. 17th we installed new ceiling tile in the old Greeting Area. I want to thank Steve Dort, Rich Winkle, Gary Householder, Scott & Tom Rodenbeck and Spencer Hunter for all their help.

I also want to thank Spencer Hunter for all is help and dedication he has given Mt Olive over the past 7-8 years as Head Trustee. We could have not done it with out you. Thanks.

Bryan Leslie