During the Lenten season, our sermon series invites the congregation on a profound journey of repentance, faith, and renewal through God's boundless grace. Beginning with Ash Wednesday's call to humility and honest confession, we explore temptations overcome by Christ's faithfulness, the living water of baptism, forgiveness found in the cross, and our mission to share the gospel with the world. Drawing from Scriptures across the lectionary cycles, these messages—spanning Sundays, midweek reflections on penitential psalms, and Holy Week's focus on Christ's passion and victory—unite in emphasizing salvation by faith alone, the sustaining power of Word and Sacraments, and preparation for the triumphant joy of Easter resurrection.
3rd Wednesday in Lent (Series A)
Gospel Reading: Psalms 38
Worship Service
March-11-2026
Pastor Eric Klemme reflects on the third of the seven penitential psalms, Psalms 38, highlighting David’s deep anguish over unconfessed sin and his plea for God’s mercy. David recognizes that his suffering, both physical and emotional, is tied to the weight of sin he has carried without confession. As he pours out his grief before the Lord, he waits faithfully for God’s answer, trusting that the Lord hears him. Pastor Klemme compares David’s experience with that of the prophet Habakkuk, who also cried out to God and waited for a response, and he notes how David’s suffering foreshadows Christ, who was opposed and abandoned despite doing good. The sermon emphasizes that God’s discipline is not cruel or arbitrary but is the loving correction of a Father who desires to restore His children. Through repentance, confession, and faith in Christ’s saving work, believers receive forgiveness and continue the lifelong process of sanctification, daily turning away from sin and returning to the gracious and merciful Lord.
3rd Sunday of Lent (Series A)
Old Testament Reading: Exodus 17:1-7
Epistle Reading: Romans 5:1-8
Gospel Reading: John 4:5-26
Worship Service
March-8-2026
Pastor Eric Klemme reflects on the encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well in John 4, highlighting how the interaction was considered scandalous in several ways: Jesus, a Jewish teacher, speaks publicly with a woman, and not just any woman but a Samaritan with a troubled past. Yet Jesus intentionally engages her, revealing profound theological truths and ultimately declaring himself the Messiah to her even before fully revealing this to his disciples. Through their conversation about “living water,” Jesus teaches that spiritual needs are greater than physical ones, just as God provided water from the rock for Israel in the wilderness. The Samaritan woman, transformed by this encounter, becomes the first evangelist in the story, running back to her town to share the good news, leading many others to believe in Christ. Pastor Klemme connects this moment to the life of the Church today: believers, washed in baptism and filled with the “living water” of Christ, are called to move beyond passivity and share the gospel with others. Just as the woman at the well and the early disciples went out to proclaim Christ, Christians today are sent into the world to bear witness to Jesus, trusting that salvation comes through him alone and responding in faith to the grace already given through his death and resurrection.
Family Life Minister Curtis uses the example of carrying heavy water from a well to help children understand the importance of water in daily life and in faith. He explains that in biblical times people had to carry heavy containers of water, emphasizing how essential water is for survival. Connecting this to Jesus’ conversation with the woman at the well, he explains that Jesus speaks about a different kind of water—“the water of life.” This living water points to baptism, which is not just ordinary water but water combined with God’s Word. Through baptism, God gives forgiveness of sins and adopts believers as members of His family, giving them eternal life through Jesus. Curtis encourages the children to ask their parents about their own baptism, reminding them that even if they do not remember it, it is the moment when they became children of God. Just as physical water is essential for life, the living water given through Jesus and baptism is essential for spiritual and eternal life.
2nd Wednesday in Lent (Series A)
Gospel Reading: Psalms 32
Pastor Klemme reflects on Psalm 32, one of the penitential psalms, emphasizing that true blessedness comes through repentance and the forgiveness of sins. King David describes how concealing sin caused him deep physical, emotional, and spiritual distress, but when he confessed openly before God, the Lord forgave him and became his refuge and hiding place. The sermon highlights the difference between mere regret for being caught (attrition) and true contrition, which is a sincere sorrow for sin before God. Drawing on the teaching of Martin Luther, Pastor Klemme reminds listeners that forgiveness cannot be earned but is freely given by God through faith in Jesus Christ. In a world where people often avoid admitting wrongdoing, the psalm calls believers to confess their sins honestly and promptly, trusting that God faithfully forgives and cleanses them through Christ’s saving work on the cross.
2nd Sunday of Lent (Series A)
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 12:1-9
Epistle Reading: Romans 4:1-8, 13-17
Gospel Reading: John 3:1-17
Worship Service
March-1-2026
Preaching on John 3 and the “Gospel in a Nutshell,” Pastor Eric Klemme explores Jesus’ nighttime conversation with Nicodemus and the meaning of being born again. Nicodemus, limited by fallen human reason, cannot grasp spiritual rebirth, but Jesus teaches that salvation comes through being born of water and the Spirit, a reference to Baptism, and is entirely God’s work. We are spiritually dead, unable to save ourselves, and rescued solely by God’s unconditional agape love in Christ. Pastor Klemme rejects any notion that we cooperate in our salvation, emphasizing instead that Christ descends to us, gives us life, and justifies us by grace through faith alone. While Christians remain simultaneously sinner and saint, engaged in the daily struggle against sin, the Holy Spirit sustains faith through Word and Sacrament. Now is the time of grace and mission, not condemnation, as the Church proclaims that God did not send His Son to condemn the world, but to save it through Him.
Family Life Minister Curtis explains what it truly means to call Jesus our “lifesaver.” He contrasts two pictures. In the first, a person is struggling in a stormy ocean and grabs a life preserver thrown from a rescue boat, suggesting that the person helps save themselves. In the second, more accurate picture, the person is at the bottom of the ocean, completely lifeless. Jesus dives down, brings them up, and gives them life.
The message emphasizes that salvation is entirely God’s work. We do not save ourselves or cooperate in earning salvation. Jesus alone gives life. To reinforce the message, each child receives a Life Savers candy along with the words, “God loves you, and Jesus is your lifesaver.” The message concludes with a prayer of thanksgiving for God’s gifts and a call to recognize and share those blessings.
1st Wednesday in Lent (Series A)
Worship Service
February-25-2026
In this Lenten message, Pastor Eric Klemme reflects on the first of the seven penitential Psalms, Psalm 6, portraying King David as overwhelmed by anguish, illness, and the crushing weight of his sin. David’s lament embodies what Martin Luther called Anfechtung, a profound spiritual despair arising from guilt and awareness of divine judgment. Echoing Romans 6:23, the sermon underscores that the wages of sin is death, a reality David feels deeply, yet it also proclaims the greater truth of God’s mercy. Just as God heard David’s plea, He hears us through the saving work of Jesus Christ, the sinless suffering servant who bore our guilt and defeated sin, death, and the devil. Though believers wrestle not merely with flesh and blood but with spiritual powers of darkness, forgiveness and eternal life are assured by grace through faith. In Christ, our enemies are defeated, our sins are removed, and we are restored to life.
1st Sunday of Lent (Series A)
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 3:1-21
Epistle Reading: Romans 5:12-19
Gospel Reading: Matthew 4:1-11
Worship Service
February-22-2026
Pastor Eric Klemme began the Lenten journey by focusing on the temptation of Christ and the contrast between Adam’s failure and Jesus’ obedience. In the fall recorded in the Book of Genesis, Adam failed to resist temptation, shifting blame instead of confessing sin, plunging humanity into bondage to sin, death, and the devil. Yet where the first Adam failed, the second Adam, Jesus Christ, succeeded. In the wilderness temptations recorded in the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus resisted Satan at the physical, emotional, and spiritual levels by relying not on divine power displays, but on the Word of God, declaring, “It is written.” Pastor Klemme emphasized that humanity remains powerless to save itself and cannot simply blame Satan for sin, for our fallen nature desires what tempts us. Salvation rests entirely in Christ’s obedient life, atoning death, and victorious resurrection. Through the Holy Spirit working by the Word and Sacraments, believers are strengthened to struggle against temptation. Lent reminds Christians that God alone “runs the verbs” of salvation, serving His people in the Divine Service, delivering them from the evil one, and securing eternal life through the victorious second Adam, Jesus Christ.
Family Life Minister Curtis taught the children about the three temptations of Jesus using simple objects to help them remember each one. He reviewed how Jesus was tempted to turn stones into bread to satisfy His hunger, to throw Himself down from the temple to test God’s protection, and to worship the devil in exchange for the kingdoms of the world. Using donut holes to represent bread, bouncy balls to represent jumping from the temple, and plastic coins to represent worldly wealth, he made the temptations concrete and memorable.
Minister Curtis emphasized that these temptations mirror the kinds of struggles Christians face today, needs of the body, testing God, and the desire for worldly gain. He reminded the children that Jesus overcame every temptation by speaking God’s Word. Because of Christ’s victory, they are loved by God and are His children. The message concluded with prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to help them share what God has done.
Ash Wednesday(Series A)
Old Testament Reading: Joel 2:12-19
Epistle Reading: 2Corinthians 5:20b-6:10
Gospel Reading: Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21
Pastor Eric Klemme opened the Lenten season by calling the congregation to repentance, humility, and renewed faith in Jesus Christ. Just as Advent prepares believers for Christ’s coming, Lent turns hearts toward His cross and ultimately toward His promised return. Apart from Christ’s atoning death and victorious resurrection, humanity remains nothing but dust with no hope beyond the grave. Yet because Christ rose, believers will also rise, regardless of burial circumstances, since the same God who formed Adam from dust will re-create and glorify His people. Drawing from Matthew 6 in the Sermon on the Mount, Pastor Klemme warned against hypocritical, showy piety and self-righteous generosity. True discipleship is marked by quiet faith, secret giving, daily repentance, and humble trust in God rather than in wealth or status. Echoing the Apostle Paul’s teaching to Timothy and the Corinthians, he reminded listeners that salvation is by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone, leaving no room for boasting. Lent, therefore, is not merely a season, but a daily pattern of turning from sin, confessing our frailty, and clinging to the crucified and risen Christ, who alone gives eternal life.
Good Friday(Series C)
18 Apr 2025
Maundy Thursday(Series C)
17 Apr 2025
Palm Sunday(Series C)
13 Apr 2025
5th Wednesday in Lent (Series C)
9 Apr 2025
5th Sunday of Lent (Series C)
6 Apr 2025
4th Wednesday in Lent (Series C)
2 Apr 2025
4th Sunday of Lent (Series C)
30 Mar 2025
3rd Wednesday in Lent (Series C)
26 Mar 2025
3rd Sunday of Lent (Series C)
23 Mar 2025
2nd Wednesday in Lent (Series C)
19 Mar 2025
2nd Sunday of Lent (Series C)
16 Mar 2025
1st Wednesday in Lent (Series C)
12 Mar 2025
1st Sunday of Lent (Series C)
9 Mar 2025
Ash Wednesday(Series C)
5 Mar 2025
Good Friday(Series C)
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 52:13-53:12
Epistle Reading: Hebrews 4:14-16, 5:7-9
Pastor Klemme’s sermon focused on Jesus’ final words from the cross, “Tetelestatai,” meaning “It is finished,” a statement that sounded like defeat to the world but was, in truth, the ultimate declaration of victory. Through His death, Jesus fully accomplished what was needed for salvation, securing redemption, forgiveness, and justification, not through repeated animal sacrifices but through the once-for-all sacrifice of the sinless Son of God. The tearing of the temple curtain at His death symbolized the removal of the barrier between God and humanity, granting believers direct access to the Father without the need for priests or rituals. Pastor Klemme illustrated this truth with a personal story about his Aunt Fran, who believed she needed others to pray on her behalf, underscoring that in Christ the barrier is gone. Because Jesus declared, “It is finished,” believers are no longer dead in sin but are adopted as God’s children, able to call Him “Abba, Father,” assured of eternal life and restored fellowship with Him.
Maundy Thursday(Series C)
Old Testament Reading: Exodus 12:1-14
Epistle Reading: 1Corinthians 11:23-32
Gospel Reading: John 13:1-17, 31b-35
Preaching from John’s account of the night Jesus was betrayed, Pastor Klemme highlighted Christ’s example of humble service in washing His disciples’ feet. Jesus, the true Passover Lamb, fulfills the old covenant with His own blood and establishes a new covenant of love and forgiveness. He commands His disciples to love one another as He has loved them—sacrificially and unconditionally. Though the world is filled with tribulation and hatred, Christ promises His abiding presence through His Word and Sacraments. In Him we have forgiveness, strength for our struggles, and the assurance of eternal life. Funerals, then, are not mere grief but Easter promises: because Christ is risen, we too shall rise.
Palm Sunday(Series C)
Old Testament Reading: Deuteronomy 32:36-39
Epistle Reading: Philippians 2:5-11
Gospel Reading: John 12:20-43
Pastor Klemme centered the sermon on the phrase “Sir, we would see Jesus” from John 12, noting that this request by the Gentiles reminds us that the heart of all preaching and worship is to see Christ for who He is, what He has done, and what He continues to do, as their desire to see Jesus shows that salvation is for all nations and not Israel alone. The sermon explained that we see Jesus today in Baptism, in the Word, and in the Lord’s Supper, where He is truly present to forgive, strengthen, and sustain us, and it reflected on the raising of Lazarus, which set in motion the plot to kill Jesus when Caiaphas declared it better for one man to die than for the nation to perish, a statement that was fulfilled in a deeper way as Christ’s death truly brought life to all. Pastor Klemme also addressed Palm Sunday’s crowds, many of whom misunderstood Jesus as a “bread king” who would provide temporary relief from Rome, while Christ came for something far greater, freedom from sin, death, and the devil. Jesus entered Jerusalem humbly, not to overthrow earthly powers, but to fulfill His hour through His suffering and death for our redemption. Our hope, then, is that we see Jesus now through the means of grace, and that one day we will see Him face to face in glory, fully known and fully redeemed.
5th Wednesday in Lent (Series C)
Epistle Reading: Philippians 2:5-11
Pastor Klemme preached from Philippians 2, focusing on Christ’s humility and the so-called foolishness of the cross, noting that the world cannot understand why God would humble Himself, take on flesh, and die a shameful death, since cultures prize strength, honor, and perfection, while God’s true glory is revealed in weakness on the cross. He explained that Christ took the form of a doulos, a slave, bearing our sin, and that many reject Christianity because they see only weakness in the crucified Savior and instead prefer ideas or religions centered on earthly power, with even figures like Hitler despising Christianity as weak. Yet Paul reminds us that Jesus emptied Himself, suffered, and died, and through this humiliation was exalted, so that the cross, though despised by the world, is in fact the true glory of God. On the cross Jesus declared, “It is finished,” meaning our salvation was fully accomplished once for all, and at His name every knee will bow, some in worship and others in defeat. In Holy Communion we are joined with believers of all times at the foot of the cross, seen by God as justified in Christ, for salvation rests not on our efforts, decisions, or righteousness, but entirely on Christ’s finished work, by which we are fully justified by grace through faith.
5th Sunday of Lent (Series C)
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 43:16-21
Epistle Reading: Philippians 3:8-14
Gospel Reading: Luke 20:9-20
Preaching from Philippians 3, Pastor Klemme emphasized Paul’s call to “press on toward the goal,” noting that Paul once prized his heritage, knowledge, and religious zeal but came to count it all as skabala, rubbish, compared to knowing Christ. The sermon highlighted that while the world values physical needs and earthly gain, Christ calls us to seek first the kingdom of God, remembering that our citizenship is in heaven and all else fades. Pastor Klemme described outreach as pre-evangelism, meeting people, building relationships, and opening doors for the Gospel, with evangelism following as we share Christ in love when the Spirit provides opportunity. He stressed that we cannot convert hearts, as only the Holy Spirit works faith through the Word and Sacraments, while our role is simply to plant and water and trust God for the growth. Through community connections like concerts, fellowship, and service in Shalimar and beyond, every believer is called to live as a missionary, pressing on past what is temporary toward the crown of everlasting life, the resurrection, and the wedding feast of the Lamb, where our true citizenship lies.
4th Wednesday in Lent (Series C)
Epistle Reading: Philippians 3:8-14
Pastor Klemme preached from Philippians 3, where Paul declares that everything he once valued—status, success, even zeal for the law—is worthless compared to knowing Christ. Paul calls it “skabala”—rubbish—because only Christ’s righteousness and the hope of the resurrection truly matter. Believers are called to fix their eyes on Christ, not earthly gain, and to “press on toward the goal” of eternal life. Like Paul, we are to forget what lies behind, endure trials, and live as Christ lived: in humility, sacrifice, and service. In Christ we have the eternal prize, the crown of everlasting life.
4th Sunday of Lent (Series C)
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 12:1-6
Epistle Reading: 2Corinthians 5:16-21
Gospel Reading: Luke 15:1-3, 11-32
Preaching on the parable of the prodigal son, Pastor Klemme emphasized the Father’s deep compassion and eagerness to welcome His children home. Many wander from the faith—sometimes through rebellion, sometimes through self-righteousness—but God never lets go of His own. Baptism marks us as His children, and the Holy Spirit continually calls us back through the Word. Repentance comes when we reach “rock bottom” and realize life is only whole in the Father’s house. The Father embraces the repentant sinner with forgiveness and restoration, while also entreating the self-righteous to join the celebration. Ultimately, in Christ—the true Son given for us—we are clothed in righteousness and welcomed into the eternal feast of the Lamb.
3rd Wednesday in Lent (Series C)
Epistle Reading: 2Corinthians 5:16-21
Preaching from 2 Corinthians 5, Pastor Klemme emphasized that Christians are ambassadors for Christ. Just as an ambassador represents the full authority of the nation that sends him, we represent the Kingdom of God. Through Christ, we have been reconciled to the Father, made new creations, and sent out to share this message of reconciliation. While we often fail as representatives because of our sin, God equips us through His Spirit, Word, and Sacraments to proclaim forgiveness with gentleness and respect. Our mission is not based on our eloquence or strength, but on Christ’s work on the cross. As ambassadors, we live and speak not for ourselves, but on behalf of the One who has reconciled the world to Himself through Jesus.
3rd Sunday of Lent (Series C)
Old Testament Reading: Ezekiel 33:7-20
Epistle Reading: 1Corinthians 10:1-13
Gospel Reading: Luke 13:1-9
Preaching from Luke 13, Pastor Klemme refuted the idea that tragedies happen because people “deserve it” through karma or divine punishment. Jesus teaches that suffering is not tied to personal sin but to the reality of a fallen, sinful world. All are sinners, and unless we repent, we will perish. God does not deal with us according to what we deserve but according to His grace. In Christ, the sinless One who became sin for us, we receive forgiveness and eternal life. Stories of the thief on the cross, a Nazi general who repented, and biblical examples like the man born blind reveal that salvation comes not by works or justice, but by God’s unconditional mercy in Christ. Redeemed by His sacrifice, we are called to bear fruit in keeping with repentance, living as forgiven children of God, not under karma, but under grace.
2nd Wednesday in Lent (Series C)
Epistle Reading: 1Corinthians 10:1-13
Paul warns the Corinthians by recalling Israel’s failures in the wilderness: despite God’s presence and provision, they yielded to temptation. We, too, face temptation daily—but God provides His Word, sacraments, and Spirit as our escape. Christ’s cross is our victory, and when we stumble, He lifts us up in forgiveness. Fix your eyes on Jesus, your faithful deliverer.
2nd Sunday of Lent (Series C)
Old Testament Reading: Jeremiah 26:8-15
Epistle Reading: Philippians 3:17-4:1
Gospel Reading: Luke 13:31-35
Pastor Klemme preached on Jesus’ resolve in the face of threats from Herod and rejection from the Pharisees. The Pharisees tried to frighten Jesus into leaving Perea, but He remained undeterred, focused on His mission to heal, teach, and ultimately suffer and die in Jerusalem.
Drawing from Jeremiah’s call to repentance and the rejection of prophets throughout Israel’s history, Pastor showed how people often resist God’s Word, preferring comfort and worldly security. Yet Jesus declared Himself the narrow door, the only way to the Father, and would not be turned aside from His saving work.
The sermon emphasized that Christ’s mission was not prosperity or ease, but the cross, where He bore our sins and won forgiveness. Unlike earthly kingdoms, our true citizenship is in heaven, secured by Christ’s finished work. We are not saved by being “good” but by being forgiven in Him.
1st Wednesday in Lent (Series C)
Epistle Reading: Philippians 3:17-4:1
Though the world pulls us toward fear, comfort, and distraction, we are citizens of heaven, marked as Christ’s own in baptism. By Word and Sacrament, the Spirit strengthens us to stand firm in faith and keep our eyes fixed on Jesus.
1st Sunday of Lent (Series C)
Old Testament Reading: Deuteronomy 26:1-11
Epistle Reading: Romans 10:8b-13
Gospel Reading: Luke 4:1-13
Pastor Klemme preached on the temptation of Christ in the wilderness, drawing parallels between Jesus’ trials and the temptations we face daily. Jesus was tempted on three levels—physical (hunger), spiritual (worship), and emotional (ego/pride)—yet He resisted not by divine power but by relying on God’s Word. This shows us that Scripture is our strongest weapon against temptation.
The sermon emphasized the importance of being rooted in the means of grace—Word and Sacraments—as our fortress and defense against the devil. Just as Jesus clung to Scripture, believers are called to study, hear, and live the Word daily so that they can stand firm when tested.
Pastor Klemme also reminded the congregation that fellowship in worship is vital; isolation makes us vulnerable to temptation. The Word of God, along with Christ’s real presence in the Lord’s Supper, strengthens and sustains us. Ultimately, our hope is in Christ’s victory, who alone provides eternal life.
Ash Wednesday(Series C)
Old Testament Reading: Joel 2:12-19
Epistle Reading: 2Corinthians 5:20b-6:10
Gospel Reading: Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21
Worship Service
March-5-2025
Ash Wednesday (Series B)
14 Feb 2024
1st Sunday of Lent (Series B)
18 Feb 2024
1st Wednesday in Lent (Series B)
21 Feb 2024
2nd Sunday of Lent (Series B)
25 Feb 2024
2nd Wednesday in Lent (Series B)
28 Feb 2024
3rd Wednesday of Lent (Series B)
6 Mar 2024
4th Sunday of Lent (Series B)
10 Mar 2024
4th Wednesday in Lent (Series B)
13 Mar 2024
5th Sunday of Lent (Series B)
17 Mar 2024
5th Wednesday of Lent (Series b)
20 Mar 2024
Palm Sunday (Series B)
24 Mar 2024
Maundy Thursday(Series B)
28 Mar 2024
Good Friday
29 Mar 2024
Good Friday(Series B)
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 52:13-53:12
Epistle Reading: Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9
Gospel Reading: John 18:1-19:42 or John 19:17-30
Maundy Thursday(Series B)
Old Testament Reading: Exodus 12:1-14
Epistle Reading: 1Corinthians 11:23-32
Gospel Reading: Mark 14:12-26
On Maundy Thursday, Family Life Minister Curtis reflected on Christ’s “new commandment” from the Gospel of John13:34, where Jesus calls His disciples to love one another as He has loved them, and connected this command to the institution of Holy Communion within the Passover meal. Drawing from Gospel of Mark 14 and the Old Testament account of the Passover, the sermon traced how God Himself delivered Israel from bondage in Egypt through the blood of the lamb, foreshadowing Christ’s redeeming work. Jesus instituted the Lord’s Supper, also called the Sacrament of the Altar or Eucharist, at what is likely the third cup of the Passover, the cup of redemption, revealing Himself as the true Lamb who redeems from sin. The message explained the Lutheran understanding of the Means of Grace, namely the Word and the Sacraments of Baptism and Communion, and outlined the four marks of a sacrament: instituted by God, containing a visible element, joined to God’s Word, and given for the forgiveness of sins. Emphasizing the doctrine of Sacramental Union and the Real Presence of Christ’s body and blood in, with, and under the bread and wine, the sermon affirmed that God is the active agent in Communion, granting forgiveness, life, salvation, and the strengthening of faith. The Office of the Keys was highlighted as Christ’s gift to His Church to administer these mysteries faithfully, with proper care and discernment. Ultimately, believers were invited to come to the Lord’s Table in repentance and trust, receiving Christ’s gifts with confidence in His promises.
Palm Sunday(Series B)
Old Testament Reading: Zechariah 9:9-12
Epistle Reading: Philippians 2:5-11
Gospel Reading: Mark 15:1-20
The Palm Sunday readings highlight Christ’s humility and kingship. Though the day is marked by triumph, the deeper focus is on Jesus humbling Himself, fulfilling Zechariah’s prophecy, and becoming obedient to death on the cross. Curtis emphasized how humanity often chooses power, pride, and sin over God, yet Jesus endured humiliation at every stage—trial, mocking, and crucifixion—to redeem us. Pilate, Jewish leaders, and even the crowd all played roles in His humiliation, but Christ’s kingship was declared through His sacrifice. He took our place, paid our guilt, and conquered sin and death. Palm Sunday ultimately points us to the paradox of Christ the humble King, who redeems us through His suffering and resurrection.
5th Wednesday in Lent (Series B)
Old Testament Reading: Psalms 78:1-8
Epistle Reading: 2Corinthians 3:12-18
Gospel Reading: Matthew 13:10-17
In this final midweek Lenten service before Holy Week, Family Life Minister Curtis reviewed the timeline of Jesus’ final days, from His anointing at Bethany, to the triumphal entry into Jerusalem, to the cleansing of the temple, and then to the parables and teachings delivered during Passion Week. Noting that Wednesday’s events are not clearly recorded in Scripture, the focus centered on Tuesday’s parables in Gospel of Matthew, while acknowledging the distinct emphases of the other Gospel writers. The sermon addressed the challenge of defining and counting parables, explaining differences between parables, allegories, similes, and metaphors, and highlighting key Passion Week parables such as the Two Sons, the Wicked Tenants, the Wedding Feast, the Ten Virgins, the Talents, and the Sheep and the Goats. Grouped by Matthew’s structure, these parables collectively warn against unbelief and describe the nature of saving faith. They emphasize that invitation comes by grace alone, and that faith, not works, is what distinguishes the faithful from the faithless. Alongside these teachings, Jesus’ authority was challenged, He lamented over Jerusalem, and He foretold the temple’s destruction, later fulfilled in 70 AD under General Titus. The overarching message of the week’s teachings is clear: faith saves, faithlessness condemns, and the events of the Passion lead from the sorrow of the cross to the joy of the resurrection and Christ’s Great Commission to make disciples of all nations.
5th Sunday of Lent (Series B)
Old Testament Reading: Jeremiah 31:31-34
Epistle Reading: Hebrews 5:1-10
Gospel Reading: Mark 10:32-45
Rev. Greg DeVore explains how the disciples misunderstood the mission of Jesus, expecting a glorious political Messiah rather than one who would suffer and die. James and John’s request to sit at Jesus’ right and left reveals their desire for honor, but Jesus redirects their understanding to the true glory of the Messiah—His suffering and death on the cross. Christ’s cross is not a defeat but the very throne of His kingdom, where He gives His life as a ransom for many. Through His obedient life, sacrificial death, and resurrection, Jesus redeems humanity from sin, death, and the power of the devil, paying the price with His own precious blood. This redemption is received through faith, which justifies believers by crediting Christ’s righteousness to them. The sermon concludes by reminding believers that the gospel is not only for those outside the faith but also for Christians who continue to struggle with sin. Christ’s forgiveness is for all who recognize their sin and trust in Him, assuring them of eternal life and victory over death.
4th Wednesday in Lent (Series B)
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 56:1-2, 6-8
Epistle Reading: Hebrews 12:1-11
Gospel Reading: Mark 11:15-18
In this Lenten reflection on the Monday of Passion Week, Family Life Minister Curtis examined Jesus’ cleansing of the temple and the question of its placement in the Gospels, noting that while Gospel of John records the event at the beginning of Jesus’ ministry, the Synoptic writers place it during His final week. Affirming that Scripture is not merely a container of God’s Word but is the very Word of God, the sermon emphasized the unity and reliability of the biblical witness, even when timelines differ in emphasis. Considering the possibility of multiple cleansings, the focus shifted to the theological meaning of the event: the corruption of worship when commerce overtook the Court of the Gentiles, displacing prayer with profit. Drawing from Gospel of Mark 11:17, Jesus’ declaration that God’s house is to be a house of prayer for all nations reveals His righteous zeal for true worship. This event illustrated the Lutheran understanding of the two kingdoms, the civil and the spiritual, and the danger that arises when the civil kingdom overtakes and distorts the spiritual. Believers are called to live faithfully in both kingdoms, yet never confuse civic virtue with salvation, which comes by grace through faith in Christ alone. The Church exists to proclaim Christ, strengthen faith through Word and prayer, and keep eyes fixed on Jesus, as Hebrews 12:2 urges, so that we do not grow uncertain or discouraged.
4th Sunday of Lent (Series B)
Old Testament Reading: Numbers 21:4-9
Epistle Reading: Ephesians 2:1-10
Gospel Reading: John 3:14-21
Family Life Minister Curtis proclaimed that God’s gracious will is for us to fear, love, and trust Him above all things, yet our sinful hearts, like hidden snakes in the grass, rebel and prefer darkness over truth. Drawing from Book of Numbers 21, he showed how Israel’s grumbling revealed hearts of unbelief, and how God responded not by removing judgment, but by providing salvation through the bronze serpent lifted on a pole, a visible reminder that healing comes from Him alone. Tracing the imagery through history, including the medical symbols associated with Hermes and Asclepius, he contrasted secular origin stories with the Scriptural witness, arguing that monotheism was not invented by man, as suggested in films like Exodus: Gods and Kings, but revealed by the one true God. Ultimately, the bronze serpent pointed forward to Christ, as declared in Gospel of John 3:14–16: just as the serpent was lifted up, so the Son of Man was lifted up on the cross. Salvation is not found in symbols, rituals, or even in our faith itself, but in Christ alone, who by grace saves sinners through faith, making us alive in Him and calling us to walk in truth and good works prepared beforehand.
3rd Wednesday in Lent (Series B)
Old Testament Reading: Zechariah 9:9-13
Epistle Reading: Hebrews 6:19-20; 7:1-3, 11-14
Gospel Reading: Mark 11:1-10
Family Life Minister Curtis reflects on Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, emphasizing how the raising of Lazarus helped generate excitement among the crowds, a phenomenon he calls the “Lazarus effect.” News of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead spread widely and drew people to see him as he entered the city. Riding on a colt fulfilled prophetic expectations and symbolized the humility of Israel’s kings, contrasting with the war horses of Roman rulers. While the crowds shouted “Hosanna,” hoping for a political deliverer who would overthrow Roman oppression, Jesus came for a different purpose. Rather than bringing earthly judgment or revolution, he came as the true King who would bring healing and forgiveness by taking the punishment for sin upon himself. The shouts of “Hosanna,” meaning “save us,” expressed both hope and longing for salvation. Ultimately, Jesus affirmed before Pilate that his kingship was real but that his kingdom was not of this world, pointing to a reign grounded in truth and salvation rather than earthly power.
3rd Sunday of Lent (Series B)
Old Testament Reading: Exodus 20:1-17
Epistle Reading: 1Corinthians 1:18-31
Gospel Reading: John 2:13-25
Rev Greg DeVore reflects on Jesus’ cleansing of the temple in John’s Gospel, the first of two such events in Christ’s ministry. By connecting this moment with the prophet Malachi’s critique of corrupted worship, he explains that God had long rejected empty sacrifices offered without sincere hearts. The temple marketplace, though created as a practical solution for providing acceptable animals and currency, ultimately corrupted sacred space, especially the Court of the Gentiles meant for prayer by all nations. Jesus’ dramatic cleansing of the temple reveals God’s deep concern for true worship and foreshadows a transformation in how humanity approaches God. Christ himself becomes the true temple, and his death and resurrection fulfill the sacrificial system once and for all. Rev DeVore concludes by acknowledging human struggles with distraction in worship but proclaims the gospel: Christ bore the punishment for our failures and makes our imperfect worship acceptable to God. Because of this grace, believers are called to approach worship with reverence and to cultivate lives of prayer and devotion beyond Sunday gatherings.
2nd Wednesday in Lent (Series B)
Old Testament Reading: Hosea 6:4-6
Epistle Reading: Hebrews 3:12-18
Gospel Reading: Matthew 12:1-8
Family Life Minister Curtis reflects on the Sabbath during Holy Week, the quiet day between the anointing at Bethany and the events that soon follow. Drawing on Martin Luther’s explanation of the Third Commandment, he explains that the Sabbath is not merely about avoiding work but about setting aside time to receive God’s Word and reflect on our relationship with Him. Throughout history, religious leaders often added strict rules to protect God’s commandments, sometimes misunderstanding the deeper message of faith and repentance proclaimed by the prophets. Jesus challenged such legalism, teaching that God desires mercy and faithfulness rather than mere ritual observance. The Sabbath, therefore, is meant as a gift for humanity, a time for rest, reflection, and worship. For Christians, Sunday worship commemorates the resurrection of Christ and reminds believers that true rest is found in Him. The sermon concludes by encouraging believers to treat worship not as habit or obligation but as an opportunity to receive God’s gifts and deepen their relationship with Him.
2nd Sunday of Lent (Series B)
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16
Epistle Reading: Romans 5:1-11
Gospel Reading: Mark 8:27-38
Rev David Schemm reflects on Mark 1:21-28, where Jesus teaches in the synagogue and casts out an impure spirit, demonstrating authority that even demons recognize. Using a story from his early ministry about the authority of a highway patrol officer, he illustrates how people respond differently when true authority is present. The sermon emphasizes that while Christians cherish Jesus’ promise of eternal life, they sometimes overlook his authority over every aspect of life. The disciples, after witnessing Jesus’ resurrection, did not simply celebrate their salvation but devoted their lives to following him boldly, even in the face of danger. The pastor encourages believers to surrender their whole lives to Christ’s authority and trust God’s guidance and purpose. Ultimately, the sermon returns to the heart of the Gospel: the same Jesus who holds authority over the world used that authority not to condemn humanity, but to save it through the cross and to invite believers to call God “Father,” assuring them of forgiveness, purpose, and eternal love.
1st Wednesday in Lent (Series B)
Old Testament Reading: Deuteronomy 15:7-11
Epistle Reading: Hebrews 10:19-25
Gospel Reading: John 12:1-11
Family Life Minister Curtis begins a midweek Lenten series tracing the final days of Jesus through Scripture, starting six days before Passover in Bethany. Bethany, the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, was a place closely connected to several important events in Jesus’ ministry, including the raising of Lazarus and later the ascension. At a celebratory dinner following Lazarus’ resurrection, Mary humbly anoints Jesus with costly perfume, demonstrating deep devotion and love. Her act stands in sharp contrast to Judas Iscariot, whose focus on the value of the perfume reveals a heart more concerned with money than with Christ. The moment highlights a recurring theme in the Gospel of John: the contrast between faithfulness and faithlessness. Mary’s humility and worship point toward Jesus’ coming sacrifice, while Judas’ actions foreshadow betrayal. Ultimately, the story reminds believers that Scripture always points to Christ, who willingly submits to suffering and death for the salvation of the world.
1st Sunday of Lent (Series B)
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 22:1-18
Epistle Reading: James 1:12-18
Gospel Reading: Mark 1:9-15
Rev Greg DeVore reflects on Mark’s account of Jesus’ baptism and shows how the Gospel of Mark intentionally connects the beginning of Jesus’ ministry with its climax at the crucifixion. At Jesus’ baptism, the heavens are torn open, the Spirit descends like a dove, and the Father declares Jesus to be his beloved Son. At the cross, Mark echoes these same themes: the temple curtain is torn, a centurion declares Jesus the Son of God, and Jesus gives up his spirit. These parallels reveal that the baptism points forward to the saving work of the cross. Through Christ’s death, the barrier between God and humanity is removed, believers gain access to God through the blood of Christ, and the Holy Spirit is given to those who believe. Because Jesus is both the Son of God and the sacrificial Savior, his death has the power to redeem humanity from sin and the power of Satan. Through baptism and faith, believers receive forgiveness, the presence of the Holy Spirit, and the assurance that they belong to Christ and live under his kingdom.
Ash Wednesday(Series B)
Old Testament Reading: Joel 2:12-19
Epistle Reading: 2Corinthians 5:20b-6:10
Gospel Reading: Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21
Family Life Minister Curtis reflects on the meaning of Lent and Ash Wednesday, emphasizing repentance, renewal, and the grace of salvation through Jesus Christ. Drawing from Matthew 6 and other scriptures, he reminds listeners that Lent’s 40 days recall Christ’s time in the wilderness and prepare believers to reflect on the cross and resurrection. The ashes placed on believers’ foreheads symbolize human mortality and the reality of sin, reminding us that we are dust and will return to dust. Yet the message of the gospel shifts the focus from human failure to God’s saving work: salvation is not earned through works but is a gift of grace accomplished through Christ’s sacrifice. While the law reveals sin and calls for repentance, the gospel proclaims hope, declaring that through Christ believers are forgiven, restored, and lifted from dust and ashes. Lent therefore becomes a season not only of repentance but also of renewed trust in God’s mercy and the salvation already secured through Jesus.
Good Friday(Series A)
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 52:13-53:12
Epistle Reading: Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9
Gospel Reading: John 18:1-19:42 or John 19:17-30
Pastor Ray reflects on the meaning of Good Friday, acknowledging that while funerals and death bring grief and pain, Christians gather on this day not merely to mourn but to remember the saving work of Jesus Christ. Recounting the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus, the sermon emphasizes that the details of Christ’s death were foretold centuries earlier through Old Testament prophecies, particularly in Isaiah and the Psalms, and were perfectly fulfilled in the events of the crucifixion. Jesus endured rejection, suffering, and death not because of His own wrongdoing but to take upon Himself the sins of humanity. By dying on the cross, He bore the curse of sin and redeemed humanity, paying the full price for forgiveness. What once was an instrument of death and shame has become a symbol of victory and salvation. Through Christ’s sacrifice, believers receive forgiveness, peace with God, and the assurance that their sins are removed forever, making Good Friday truly “good” because of the redemption accomplished through Jesus’ finished work on the cross.
Maundy Thursday(Series A)
Old Testament Reading: Exodus 24:3-11
Epistle Reading: Hebrews 9:11-22
Gospel Reading: Matthew 26:17-30 or John 13:1-17, 31b-35
Pastor Ray reflects on the meaning of betrayal and forgiveness by focusing on the events surrounding the Last Supper. Using the famous painting of the Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci as an illustration, he highlights the moment when Jesus reveals that one of His disciples will betray Him. Judas betrays Jesus for thirty pieces of silver, but the sermon emphasizes that believers should not simply condemn Judas, because all people have betrayed Christ through their sins, denying Him in thoughts, words, and actions. Satan continually tempts believers to compromise their faith, leading to guilt and despair similar to what Judas experienced. Yet the message of the Gospel offers hope: unlike Judas, who lost faith in forgiveness, believers are reminded through the example of Peter that Christ’s grace restores those who repent. Jesus faithfully fulfilled the will of the Father, giving His life on the cross to redeem humanity, not with silver or gold but with His precious blood. Through the means of grace, including the proclamation of forgiveness and the Lord’s Supper, believers receive assurance that their sins are forgiven and that Christ’s sacrifice is greater than any betrayal.
Palm Sunday
Old Testament Reading: Revelation 7:9-10, 14-17
Epistle Reading: Philippians 2:5-11
Gospel Reading: John 12:12-19
Worship Service
5th Wednesday in Lent
Worship Service
30/3/2023 3:02:59 PM
Old Testament Reading: Jonah 3:1-4:4, 4:11
Epistle Reading: Romans 8:1-11
Gospel Reading: John 11:17-27, 38-53
22 Feb
1 Mar
8 Mar
15 Mar
22 Mar
29 Mar
5th Sunday of Lent
Old Testament Reading: Ezekiel 37:1-14
Epistle Reading: Romans 8:1-11
Gospel Reading: John 11:17-27, 38-53
Worship Service
4th Wednesday in Lent
Worship Service
24/3/2023 8:25:04 AM
Old Testament Reading: Micah 7:18-20
Epistle Reading: Ephesians 5:8-14
Gospel Reading: John 9:1-7, 13-17, 34-39
22 Feb
1 Mar
8 Mar
15 Mar
22 Mar
4th Sunday of Lent
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 42:14-21
Epistle Reading: Ephesians 5:8-14
Gospel Reading: John 9:1-7, 13-17, 34-39
Worship Service
3rd Wednesday in Lent
Worship Service
21/3/2023 7:49:24 AM
Old Testament Reading: Exodus 17:1-7
Epistle Reading: Romans 5:1-8
Gospel Reading: Luke 24:44-49
22 Feb
1 Mar
8 Mar
15 Mar
3rd Sunday of Lent
Old Testament Reading: Exodus 17:1-7
Epistle Reading: Romans 5:1-8
Gospel Reading: John 4:5-26
Worship Service
2nd Wednesday in Lent
Worship Service
9/3/2023 2:20:26 PM
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 12:1-9
Epistle Reading: 1 Peter 1:13-21
Gospel Reading: John 3:1-17
22 Feb
1 Mar
8 Mar
2nd Sunday of Lent
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 12:1-9
Epistle Reading: Romans 4:1-8, 13-17
Gospel Reading: John 3:1-17
Worship Service
1st Wednesday in Lent
Worship Service
9/3/2023 2:24:06 PM
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 3:1-21
Epistle Reading: Romans 5:12-19
Gospel Reading: Matthew 6:25-34
22 Feb
1 Mar
1st Sunday of Lent
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 3:1-21
Epistle Reading: Romans 5:12-19
Gospel Reading: Matthew 4:1-11
Worship Service
Ash Wednesday
Worship Service
23/2/2023 8:57:22 AM
Old Testament Reading: Joel 2:12-19
Epistle Reading: 2Corinthians 5:20b-6:10
Gospel Reading: Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21
22 Feb