THE ADULT BIBLE CLASS, led by Pastor Lueck, is studying “Luther’s Small Catechism”. The class meets in the basement at 9:15 a.m.
TODAY IN SUNDAY SCHOOL: Our children will study “Jacob’s Dream”, a story that shows God renewing His promise to bless all people through Jacob’s family. God kept His promise by giving Jesus to be our Savior. Your family could discuss, “What reminders does God give us of His promises to us?”
THOUGHTS ON STEWARDSHIP: 1 Corinthians 1:9: “God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” The faithfulness of God is our great comfort. He has made promises to us and He will keep them. He is kind and loving toward us and will not break faith with us. This gives us the confidence to step out in faith, not fear, when it comes to following the Lord’s commandments for our daily lives: we know His will is best; God is faithful.
ADVENT DEVOTIONS: Pick up a copy of the “Advent Devotions” located on the table in the narthex.
TODAY: The Evangelism/Stewardship Committee invites everyone to be a part of decorating the church for Advent/Christmas. We will gather in peace and joy to prepare for “the Light of the world to come”. TODAY following the 10:30 worship will be the time for this festive fellowship event. We will enjoy that time honored Christmas traditional meal – pizza – provided by the congregation. Do not be “asleep on the hay” but “let every heart prepare Him room” as we look forward to seeing you today.
CHRISTMAS 2014 ADOPT A FAMILY: This year we have adopted a family of 4 for Christmas. We have placed their requests on the tree in the narthex. Choose an item or items to purchase and return these purchases, unwrapped, by TODAY, November 30th. We have put a box next to the tree for those who would like to make a monetary donation. Please make checks payable to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church and put “Adopt a Family” in the memo line. Katie Kleiboeker and Toni Lueck will purchase items with these funds. Please take this opportunity to share your blessings with a family in need.
THE MIDWEEK ADVENT WORSHIP SERVICES begin this Wednesday, December 3rd and will also be held on Wednesday, December 10th and the 17th. Worship begins at 7:00 p.m. with a soup and sandwich supper at 5:30 p.m. We have a sign-up in the narthex for the meal. There will be a free-will offering for Seminarian Chris Suggitt. Almost every Board in the congregation will not meet in December so that families can worship together and spend time with one another during this busy month.
POINSETTIAS: If you would like to contribute toward the purchase of a poinsettia for the altar at Christmas, the cost is $6.00. There is a sign-up sheet and envelope to put your money or check in available on the table in the narthex. We need to have your order by Sunday, December 14th. You may pick up your poinsettia after the New Year’s Eve Worship Service. If you have any questions, please contact Luanne Huth.
THANK YOU notes were sent out to everyone but in case someone got missed, “Thank you” for all the wonderful cards, kind words, and gifts for Pastor Appreciation. As I complete my 15th year as your Shepherd, I appreciate all the love and support for my family and I. The Lord continues to bless us through you. In Christ’s Love, Pastor
THE LUTHERAN ANNUAL: It’s time again to order copies of the “Lutheran Annual”. The cost is $25.00. If you are interested in obtaining a copy, please contact Janet or Sandy in the church office by phone (309) 662-8905 or email at: goodshepherdblm@frontier.com or even in person.
FROM THE OFFICE: We have a 2015 Large Print Scripture Text Calendar available for anyone who wants it. See Pastor Lueck.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: If you would like a copy of your 2014 Financial Statement please see or call Joyce Schneider.
THE LUTHERAN HOUR: “We Need Something Stronger” is the topic for next Sunday. The sermon text will be from Mark 1:1-8. Jesus exchanges our weakness for His strength. The speaker will be Reverend Gregory Seltz. Hear this Sunday’s message on the Lutheran Hour on WGN (720) at 6:00 a.m.; WJWR (104.7 FM) and WJWR (90.3 FM) both on Sunday at 3:00 p.m. Also, if you can receive Lincoln, IL radio station WLLM (1370 AM) the program is broadcast two times on Sunday at 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Tune in! You can also listen to The Lutheran Hour on your personal computer at RealAudio, www.lhm.org.