As we look to Jesus’ ministry, and his compassion and healing for many different people, we also must ask ourselves: “Does our compassion truly extend to all? Do all feel welcome in our midst?” Join us for worship this weekend.
Saturday – 5:00 p.m. Worship with Holy Communion in the Chapel
Sunday – 8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship with Holy Communion
9:30 a.m. Sunday School
High School and Adult Forum with Troy Stoenner “Fun in the outdoors” in Fellowship Hall
10:30 a.m. Contemporary Worship with Holy Communion
We will also be sharing our ELC Benevolence emphasis for the new month at all worship services!!!
Also upcoming this week: Wednesday 6:00 p.m. Potluck in fellowship hall
Thursday – 5:00 p.m. – Bus leaves ELC parking for “Rock & Worship Roadshow” in Madison
This week’s worship focus:
Jesus Heals a Centurion’s Servant and Raises a Widow’s Son at Nain
February 3, 2013
Luke 7:1-17
Key Verse: “But only speak the word, and let my servant be healed.” Luke 7:7
Time: 27-30 C.E.
Since Last Week: Jesus started to teach in parables. Often he used parables to describe the kingdom of God, which is not a location, but is wherever God’s will is being done. When we follow God, we participate in bringing about the kingdom of God on earth.
Background: Jesus was surprised to find such strong faith in a Centurion, a Roman military leader. Luke often lifted up that Jesus came not only to save the Jews, but to save all creation. When Jesus saw the grief of the widow at Nain, he was moved to action. Jesus is not immune to the pain of human suffering. He is moved by compassion to heal and to comfort.
Community: Jesus came for the insiders (Jews) and the outsiders (Gentiles). How are insiders and outsiders treated in your faith community? What could your faith community do to blur those lines and be a welcoming place for all?
At Home: How much faith is enough? How would you know if you had faith like the Centurion? Pay attention this week to how your faith and compassion motivate you into action.
Read This Week:
Monday: Jesus Speaks in Parables, Luke 8:1-18
Tuesday: Jesus Calms a Storm, Luke 8:19-25
Wednesday: Jesus Heals the Gerasene Demoniac, Luke 8:26-39
Thursday: A Girl Restored to Life and a Woman Healed, Luke 8:40-56
Friday: Jesus Sends Out Disciples and Feeds 5000, Luke 9:1-17
Saturday: Peter’s Confession; Jesus Talks of Death and Resurrection, Luke 9:18-27
Next Week: Transfiguration, Luke 9:28-45
