Friday, April 10, 2026

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