Today's scripture reading takes us into Matthew's Gospel account...
 
                  "When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion 
                     on them and healed their sick."  (Matthew 14:14  NIV)
 
At it's simplest level, spiritual growth is our increasing resemblance to Jesus. And to achieve that, we have to know what Jesus is like, knowledge gained through Bible study. We must talk to Him in prayer and quietly listen for His response through the Spirit. And then... we need to practice what we learn.
   
Of his life on earth, Jesus said He "did not come to be served, but to serve (Matthew 20:28; Mark 10:45  NIV). That is obvious in today's scripture passage. After learning of the beheading of His relative John the Baptist, Jesus "withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place" (Matthew 14:13 NIV). But the crowds, tipped off to His movement, rushed to His presumed landing spot. Jesus, in His humanity undoubtedly distressed by the death of John, immediately began serving the people.
   
What about us? When needs arise, will we leave our comforts to serve others? Yes, "self-care" is important --- we want to maintain the well-being of our bodies, "temples of the Holy Spirit," in the apostle Paul's words (1 Corinthians 6:19 NIV). But if Jesus could rouse Himself from a quiet time of rest to serve people in need, shouldn't we do the same?
   
It won't be easy. But never forget that every good thing we accomplish is done in God's strength anyway.  
 
    Make me more like You, Jesus, ready to serve whenever needed.  Amen.  
 
+++ The family gathers for worship on Sunday at 8:30am and 10:00am and Rev. Candace Lawrence will be leading worship for the next 2 weeks as I am away. Candace's message this week is "Do I Have to Go To Church?". We hope you are here to welcome Candace back to Immanuel and that you receive a great blessing from her words. If you can't be here in person with us, join us on the church's Facebook page for our "live-stream" at 10:00am or later for the recorded worship service on the church's YouTube channel. We hope to "see you" in worship this Sunday!

+++ Following worship this week we will enjoy our last Second Sunday Luncheon until the fall. Hopefully you have had a chance to sign up and are planning on joining in the great food and fellowship! Our shut-in Meal Ministry will be delivered following the luncheon, as well! This great ministry work continues to brighten the day of those who receive a meal each month. Thanks for all you do to make this important ministry happen!

+++ On Tuesday our Finance Team meets at 6:00pm in the Fireside Room and the Administrative Council meeting follows at 6:45pm. Please try to be in attendance for these important meetings this week!

+++ On Wednesday, 4/15 come and enjoy "Coffee with Pam" at 9:30am in the Fireside Room. It is a wonderful hour of fellowship and good conversation each week.  

+++ Our Springtime edition of our Craft Show occurs next weekend, April 17th and 18th.  Plan to stop by and check out the crafters, enjoy a tasty snack and bring a few friends to see where it is you worship each week. All of the proceeds from these shows are used to support mission work here at Immanuel!

+++ The deadline for articles for the May/June edition of our church newsletter is coming up on April 20th! Team leaders please make sure your articles are in the office by this date so we can meet our publishing deadlines. Thanks!   

+++ While I am away, emergency pastoral care will be covered by our Certified Lay Minister, Jim Sokolowski. Jim can be reached by contacting the church office directly.  

Make this day a great day and always pray to be more like Jesus!   
Pastor Jack   

As we move through this Holy Week we hear some words from Psalm 41...
 
                  "O Lord," I prayed, "have mercy on me. Heal me, for I have sinned against you."  (Psalm 41: 4 NLT)
 
Many centuries ago, the apostle John wrote, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness"  (1 John 1:9 NIV).
   
FAITHFUL AND JUST. That means that God will keep God's promise to forgive us when we come to Him and confess our wrongdoings. In today's scripture verses, David gave further voice to this truth when he cried out to the Lord to have mercy on him and to heal his heart, for he had sinned against Him.
   
Sin carries with it very severe consequences, namely eternal punishment and separation from God. But God mercifully forgives and cleanses the believer who recognizes and confesses their sin. God truly desires to forgive and restore the penitent believer.
   
Are you aware of some sin in your life that has created separation between you and God? Then run to God now and confess --- then believe in your heart that God has forgiven and cleansed you.  
 
                  Lord God, I thank You for Your mercy upon a miserable sinner like me. When I sin against You, may I run to Your throne and seek mercy, forgiveness, cleansing, and restoration --- not away  from You in shame and discouragement. You truly are a God who delights in showing Your people mercy.  Amen. 
 
+++ Here are our worship plans for this Holy Week......

• Maundy Thursday worship - 7:00pm in the Sanctuary on April 2nd. We will remember the Last Supper on Jesus' last night here with us as we celebrate Holy Communion and strip the Altar in preparation for Good Friday.
• Good Friday worship - Our sanctuary is open for your private devotions from12:00noon - 3:00pm on April 3rd. Come when you can and stay as long as you would like as you spend some time remembering Jesus' time on the cross.
• Easter Sunday worship - We gather in our beautiful Sanctuary at 8:30am and 10:00am to celebrate the resurrection! Special music, uplifting scripture lessons and the Sacrament of Holy Communion await us on this celebration morning!

+++ Next Wednesday, 4/8 Coffee with the Pastor returns at 9:30am. Come and join us for this time of fellowship and conversation.  

+++ Worship leadership will be offered by Rev. Candace Lawrence on April 12th and 19th as I am away on vacation. And Jim Sokolowski, our CLM, will be available for emergency pastoral coverage during this time.  Jim can be reached through Pam in the church office. 

+++ Don't forget our upcoming Craft Fair on April 17th and 18th here at Immanuel. Come and check out all the wonderful crafts as we support mission work here and throughout the world. Bring a friend or three, as well to this fun event!  

+++ Our annual Garage Sale takes place on April 30, May 1, & 2 here at the church. See Shelley for information and to offer to help during the sale!  
 
Make this a great day and remember that God forgives us when we confess and repent!!
​Pastor Jack