I don’t want to get into a debate. Some of you believe in climate change and some of you don’t. I’m not going to debate either choice. What I hope we can agree on is that the weather is sure getting weirder. It seems that LaSalle Peru is sheltered a little bit. From what I understand, our neighbors to the west of us got clobbered with trees down in many places. Then I heard of the tornadoes that ripped through the south causing many deaths. We should be thankful, but our prayers should also go out to those who are now suffering because of these storms.
We had another Saturday at the laundromat last week. We have some members who are gifted in conversation. It was fun to watch some of our members do so much more than just pay for laundry. They got to know the person that they were helping. Many times, they were chatting for more than 15 minutes. And when I looked over most of the time they were laughing. We also went to the store and bought laundry detergent and cleaning supplies and donated them to PADS. I can’t remember where the comment came from but it originated from a discussion that one of our church members had with a friend. The church member mentioned to her friend that she was going to the laundromat and help pay for wash and dry. Her friend’s comment was, “Wow, your church does so much for the community.” A high five to all of you. Your continued support for all the things your church does is making a difference. Thank you.
You haven’t seen it in a long time, but the chalkboard is back. The Spring Breakfast is coming up on April 6.
The ticket price are ridiculously low. 5 dollars for adults and 2 dollars for children. It is probably one of the only things that haven’t gone up in price. The reason is because of you and your donations to this breakfast. The breakfast is mostly for us. It is a great time for fellowship. It is a great time to talk to new members (we have a few). I know what you are going to do. You are board-wreckers which is awesome. I hope you feel like part of this community that our church helps. If we can help you in any way, please let me know. Please do not expect me to know if no one tells me. The help from your church extends to everyone, especially all of our church members. I hope you know this.
Tuesday we have a Church Council meeting. If you have problems or issues that you want us to discuss, you can come to the meeting or let one of the council members know. If the council members can’t address it right away, then we will discuss it among the group. The council members represent you. If there is a problem/issue we will try to rectify it. However, it may not be what you want but the council members do represent you but they also represent the whole church. But if it is brought up in the council meeting, we will discuss it.
We had a really nice turnout for our Lenten service on Wednesday. We will continue to worship in the lounge. It feels right to be in there. If you need a little God in the middle of the week, please come and join us.
Truth: Only by filling up with God’s love, do I have love to share. (Living Lutheran, March 2023)
Pastor Tom
815-223-1144
Readings for third Weekend of Lent – March 22 & 23
Isaiah 55:1-9 Psalm 63:1-8 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 Luke 13:1-9
Reading the Bible in a Year- Monday, March 17 to Sunday March 23
Day Amos Psalms Proverbs Romans
Monday Ch:1- Ch 2 17:5-14 Ch 2:17-Ch 3:8
Tuesday Ch 3 – Ch 4 85.8-13 Ch 3:9-31
Wednesday Ch 5 86:1-10 Ch 4:1-15
Thursday Ch 6 – Ch 7 86:11-17 Ch 4:16 – Ch 5:11
Friday Ch 8 – Ch 9 17:15-24 Ch 5:12-21
Hosea
Saturday Ch 1 – Ch 2 87:1-7 Ch 6:1-14
Sunday Ch 3 – Ch 5 88:1-9 Ch 6:15-Ch 7:6
Amos – we are now in the section of the Small Prophets. It has nothing to do with the quality but the quantity. They are just not as many chapters in them compared to the Major Prophets. Example: Isaiah has 66 chapters while Amos has 9 chapters. That is what makes the difference. Amos is about the judgement of God. It includes Israel’s enemies but also Israel itself. It sounds like God doesn’t want to punish Israel but they leave God no choice.
Hosea -is interesting because what God asks Hosea to do. God asks Hosea to marry a prostitute. They have children and things appear to be going okay. But she begins cheating on Hosea and resorts to her old ways. It is supposed to be a lesson to all of Israel and how they also have cheated on God.
Psalms- the psalmist is asking for God to show his steadfast love in psalm 85. I love the image of verse 10, where “steadfast love and faithfulness will meet; righteousness and peace will kiss each other.” Let your imagination work on this.
Proverbs – continued wisdom on relationships and how to maintain them. Individually, I like verse 22. I think it is your choice sometimes to have a joyful heart or a downcast spirit. Sometimes, however, those suffering from mental illness will struggle to find anything joyful.
Romans – There is way too much stuff. I believe that chapters 1-8 are some of the best chapters in the Bible. Enjoy reading them. Take your time. Read them slowly. Maybe read them twice. Be filled with God’s richness.