Thursday, December 27, 2007

Looking Forward: Sundays in January

Note: The following will be published in the January issue of Tidings, Immanuel's parish newsletter.

January 6: Epiphany - Epiphany is the earliest Christan festival besides Easter - earlier even than Christmas! It always falls on January 6, after the twelve days of Christmas are completed. It is considered one of the most important days of the Christian year, as it commemorates the Magi from the East coming to worship Jesus as true God in the flesh, the King of all mankind. This event (and the Gospel for this day) is recorded in Matthew 2:1-12.

January 13: The Baptism of Our Lord - Great feasts have an "octave," a recapitulation of the festival on the eighth day (or, one week later). The octave of Epiphany is January 13, which is the fixed date for remembering the Baptism of Jesus. We are privileged this year to have both January 6 and 13 fall on Sundays, which will give more people the opportunity to celebrate these great feasts. At the Baptism of Jesus (Matthew 3:13-17), we see that He stepped into our place, the Sinless One baptized as a sinner, in order to fulfill all righteousness for us and give us a Baptism into His sinlessness.

January 20: Septuagesima - Because Easter comes early this year (March 23), so does Lent, beginning on Ash Wednesday (February 6). The three Sundays before Ash Wednesday are known to traditional Christians as "Pre-Lent," signified by their funny names all ending in "-gesima." The names are approximations of the number of days until Easter; Septuagesima is about seventy days before Easter. On this day, we prepare for Lent by hearing the Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16). Christ our Lord is calling us to work, and He promises to give us far more than we deserve when the day is finished.

January 27: Sexagesima - Again looking toward Easter, Sexagesima reminds us that we now are only about sixty days away from the Resurrection celebration. The Parable of the Sower (Luke 8:4-15) tells us what we will need to be about in Lent and throughout our Christian life: keeping the Word of God with patience, bringing fruit to maturity while not getting consumed with the cares and riches of this life.

Daily Readings for December 31, 2007 - January 5, 2008

Monday:
John 1:15-18
Isaiah 32:1-8

Tuesday:
Luke 2:15-20
Isaiah 46:3-13

Wednesday:
Luke 2:21-24
Matthew 2:16-18

Thursday:
Luke 2:25-40
Matthew 2:19-23

Friday:
Matthew 2:1-12
Matthew 3:1-12

Saturday:
Isaiah 60:1–6
Ephesians 3:1–12

Small Catechism for Memorizing - Christmas I (December 30)

Lord’s Prayer - The First Petition:
Hallowed be Thy name.

What does this mean? God’s name is certainly holy in itself, but we pray in this petition that it may be kept holy among us also.

How is God’s name kept holy? God’s name is kept holy when the Word of God is taught in its truth and purity, and we, as the children of God, also lead holy lives according to it. Help us to do this, dear Father in heaven! But anyone who teaches or lives contrary to God’s Word profanes the name of God among us. Protect us from this, heavenly Father!

Bible Verse for Memorizing - Christmas I (December 30)

“The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14)

Thursday, December 20, 2007

Daily Readings for December 24 - 29

Monday:
Matthew 1:18-25
Isaiah 40:1-11

Tuesday:
Luke 1:39-45
Malachi 3:1-7

Wednesday:
Luke 1:46-56
Malachi 4:1-6

Thursday:
Luke 1:57-66
Isaiah 28:14-19

Friday:
Luke 1:67-80
Isaiah 7:1-17

Saturday:
Galatians 4:1–7
Luke 2:22–40

Collect for Advent IV (December 23)

Stir up Your power, O Lord, and come and help us by Your might, that the sins which weigh us down may be quickly lifted by Your grace and mercy; for You live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

Bible Verse for Memorizing - Advent IV (December 23)

“Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.” (Isaiah 7:14)

Wednesday, December 19, 2007

Veith on Vespers at Immanuel Lutheran School

Noted author Gene Edward Veith visited Vespers yesterday at the end of the school day, and wrote about his experience worshiping with our school children. You can read about it here.

Wednesday, December 12, 2007

Daily Readings for December 17 - 22

Monday:
Luke 1:57-80
Hebrews 10:35-39

Tuesday:
Luke 2:1-7
Luke 21:5-24

Wednesday:
Luke 2:8-20
Luke 12:35-59

Thursday:
Isaiah 26:1-21
James 5:7-11

Friday:
Isaiah 51:1-16
Luke 1:1-25

Saturday:
Philippians 4:4–7
John 1:19–28

Small Catechism for Memorizing - Advent III (December 16)

Lord’s Prayer: The First Petition
Hallowed be Thy name.

What does this mean? God’s name is certainly holy in itself, but we pray in this petition that it may be kept holy among us also.

Bible Verse for Memorizing - Advent III (December 16)

"The grass withers, the flower fades, but the Word of our God will stand forever." (Isaiah 40:8)

Thursday, December 6, 2007

Daily Readings for December 10 - 15

Monday:
Luke 21:25-36
Acts 17:16-34

Tuesday:
Luke 1:5-25
1 John 4:9-16

Wednesday:
Luke 1:26-38
Colossians 1:1-8

Thursday:
Matthew 1:18-25
Philippians 2:12-18

Friday:
Luke 1:39-56
Philippians 3:12-16

Saturday:
1 Corinthians 4:1–5
Matthew 11:2–11

Small Catechism for Memorizing - Advent II (December 9)

Lord’s Prayer: Introduction
Our Father who art in heaven.

What does this mean? With these words God tenderly invites us to believe that He is our true Father and that we are His true children, so that with all boldness and confidence we may ask Him as dear children ask their dear father.

Bible Verse for Memorizing - Advent II (December 9)

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” (Romans 15:13)

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Daily Readings for December 3 - 8

Monday:
Matthew 21:1-9
Matthew 11:25-30

Tuesday:
Genesis 27:30-45
Acts 3:22-26

Wednesday:
Genesis 27:46--28:22
Colossians 1:15-29

Thursday:
Genesis 29:1-30
Hebrews 1:1-4

Friday:
Genesis 29:31--30:24
Hebrews 2:1-4

Saturday:
Romans 15:4–13
Luke 21:25–36

Small Catechism for Memorizing - Advent I (December 2)

The Third Article of the Apostles' Creed: I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Christian Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the X life everlasting. Amen.

What does this mean? I believe that I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him; but the Holy Spirit has called me by the Gospel, enlightened me with His gifts, sanctified and kept me in the true faith. In the same way He calls, gathers, enlightens, and sanctifies the whole Christian Church on earth, and keeps it with Jesus Christ in the one true faith. In this Christian Church He daily and richly forgives all my sins and the sins of all believers. On the Last Day He will raise me and all the dead, and give eternal life to me and all believers in Christ. This is most certainly true.

Bible Verse for Memorizing - Advent I (December 2)

"This is His name by which He will be called: THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS." (Jeremiah 23:6)

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Daily Readings for November 26 - December 1

Monday:
Matthew 25:1-13
2 Peter 3:1-18

Tuesday:
Genesis 24:1-24
Isaiah 65:17-25

Wednesday:
Genesis 24:29, 32-38, 42-49, 58-67
1 John 3:1-12

Thursday:
Genesis 25:19-34
1 John 3:19-24

Friday:
Genesis 27:1-29
John 1:35-42

Saturday:
Romans 13:8–14
Matthew 21:1–9

Small Catechism for Memorizing - Last Sunday of the Church Year (November 25)

The Third Article of the Apostles' Creed: I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Christian Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

What does this mean? I believe that I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him; but the Holy Spirit has called me by the Gospel, enlightened me with His gifts, sanctified and kept me in the true faith. In the same way He calls, gathers, enlightens, and sanctifies the whole Christian Church on earth, and keeps it with Jesus Christ in the one true faith. In this Christian Church He daily and richly forgives all my sins and the sins of all believers. On the Last Day He will raise me and all the dead, and give eternal life to me and all believers in Christ. This is most certainly true.

Bible Verse for Memorizing - Last Sunday of the Church Year (November 25)

"The day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night." (1 Thessalonians 5:2)

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Issues, Etc. Interview

Lutheran radio program Issues, Etc. interviewed me yesterday, and the host, Rev. Todd Wilken, specifically asked me to thank Immanuel for its support of the program the last few years.

You can listen to the interview on-demand at www.issuesetc.org - click "listen online," then go to the archives for Nov. 19, first hour. You can read my reflections on the experience here.

Thursday, November 15, 2007

Daily Readings for November 19 - 24

Monday:
Matthew 9:18-26
Matthew 24:29-51

Tuesday:
Genesis 22:1-19
Matthew 22:23-33

Wednesday:
1 Corinthians 15:11-50
Luke 17:11-19

Thursday:

Ezekiel 38:1-23
Hebrews 3:7—4:13

Friday:
Ezekiel 39:1-29
Hebrews 11:8-16

Saturday:
1 Thessalonians 5:1–11
Matthew 25:1–13

Small Catechism for Memorizing - Trinity XXIV (November 18)

The Second Article of the Creed: What does this mean? I believe that Jesus Christ, true God, begotten of the Father from eternity, and also true man, born of the Virgin Mary, is my Lord, who has redeemed me, a lost and condemned person, purchased and won me from all sins, from death, and from the power of the devil; not with gold or silver, but with His holy, precious blood and with His innocent suffering and death, that I may be His own and live under Him in His kingdom and serve Him in everlasting righteousness, innocence, and blessedness, just as He is risen from the dead, lives and reigns to all eternity. This is most certainly true.

Bible Verse for Memorizing - Trinity XXIV (November 18)

"[The Lord Jesus Christ] is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation." (Colossians 1:15)

Friday, November 9, 2007

Immanuel to Host Divine Service before 2008 March for Life

The Reporter, Synod's newspaper, has a nice article in anticipation of the 2008 March for Life coming up in January. Immanuel is mentioned as hosting the Divine Service beforehand, and the dinner for participants afterwards. The last few years that I have participated, I have been astonished at the Roman Catholic presence on the Mall, and how sparse the Lutherans are by comparison. How wonderful it would be to get a great turnout For Life!

Thursday, November 8, 2007

Daily Readings for November 12 - 17

Monday:
Isaiah 10:5-27
1 Corinthians 3:1-23

Tuesday:
Matthew 22:15-22
Matthew 19:16-30

Wednesday:
Genesis 18:16-33
Luke 14:12-15

Thursday:
Genesis 19:1, 12-29
Mark 13:1-37

Friday:
Genesis 21:1-21
Matthew 25:14-30

Saturday:
Colossians 1:9–14
Matthew 9:18–26

Small Catechism for Memorizing - Trinity XXIII (November 11)

The Second Article of the Creed: And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended into hell. The third day He rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty. From thence He will come to judge the living and the dead.

What does this mean? I believe that Jesus Christ, true God, begotten of the Father from eternity, and also true man, born of the Virgin Mary, is my Lord, who has redeemed me, a lost and condemned person, purchased and won me from all sins, from death, and from the power of the devil; not with gold or silver, but with His holy, precious blood and with His innocent suffering and death, that I may be His own and live under Him in His kingdom and serve Him in everlasting righteousness, innocence, and blessedness, just as He is risen from the dead, lives and reigns to all eternity. This is most certainly true.

Bible Verse for Memorizing - Trinity XXIII (November 11)

"Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's." (Matthew 22:21)

Thursday, November 1, 2007

Daily Readings for November 5 - 10

Monday:
Genesis 15:1-6
Matthew 18:1-22

Tuesday:
Genesis 16:1-16
Mark 9:33-50

Wednesday:
Genesis 17:1-11
Luke 17:20-37

Thursday:

Genesis 17:15-27
Romans 8:24-39

Friday:
Genesis 18:1-15
Mark 12:1-12

Saturday:

Philippians 3:17–21
Matthew 22:15–22

Small Catechism for Memorizing - All Saints' Day/Trinity XXII (November 4)

The First Article of the Creed: I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth.

What does this mean? I believe that God has made me and all creatures; that He has given me my body and soul, eyes, ears, and all my members, my reason and all my senses, and still takes care of them. He also gives me clothing and shoes, food and drink, house and home, wife and children, land, animals, and all I have. He richly and daily provides me with all that I need to support this body and life. He defends me against all danger and guards and protects me from all evil. All this He does only out of fatherly, divine goodness and mercy, without any merit or worthiness in me. For all this it is my duty to thank and praise, serve and obey Him. This is most certainly true.

Bible Verse for Memorizing - All Saints' Day/Trinity XXII (November 4)

"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God." (Matthew 5:8)

Wednesday, October 24, 2007

Daily Readings for October 29 - November 3

Monday:
Genesis 9:1-17
John 15:12-21

Tuesday:
Genesis 11:1-9
Romans 3:19-28

Wednesday:
Genesis 12:1-20
John 8:31-36

Thursday:
Genesis 14:8-23
Ephesians 4:29-32

Friday:
Ephesians 5:10-14
Jeremiah 31:23-40

Saturday:
1 John 3:1–3
Matthew 5:1-12

Small Catechism for Memorizing - Reformation/Trinity XXI (October 28)

The First Article of the Creed: I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth.
What does this mean? I believe that God has made me and all creatures; that He has given me my body and soul, eyes, ears, and all my members, my reason and all my senses, and still takes care of them. He also gives me clothing and shoes, food and drink, house and home, wife and children, land, animals, and all I have. He richly and daily provides me with all that I need to support this body and life. He defends me against all danger and guards and protects me from all evil. All this He does only out of fatherly, divine goodness and mercy, without any merit or worthiness in me. For all this it is my duty to thank and praise, serve and obey Him. This is most certainly true.

Bible Verse for Memorizing - Reformation/Trinity XXI (October 28)

"All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus." (Romans 3:23-24)

Monday, October 22, 2007

Deutsche Messe

Deutsche Messe: We will be celebrating the Reformation this Sunday, October 28 using Setting Five in LSB. This order of service is based on Martin Luther’s Deutsche Messe (“German Mass”), where the common language of the people was used in the Divine Service instead of the customary Latin. One of the unique features in this service is the use of hymns to replace parts of the liturgy. Plan to attend Bible Study before Divine Service on the 28th to learn more about the Deutsche Messe, and to be better prepared for this festival service.

Thursday, October 18, 2007

Happy Birthday Pastor Esget!!!


The school children celebrated Pastor Esget's birthday with cake and singing today at lunch. God's blessings to you Pastor!

Daily Readings for October 22 - 27

Monday:
Matthew 22:1-14
Mark 4:1-41

Tuesday:
Genesis 4:1-8, 25-26
Acts 15:12-22

Wednesday:
Genesis 6:5-22
Luke 13:18-35

Thursday:
Genesis 7:1-24
Matthew 16:13-20

Friday:
Genesis 8:1-22
2 Corinthians 3:10—4:18

Saturday:
Ephesians 6:10–17
John 4:46–54

Small Catechism for Memorizing - Trinity XX (October 21)

The Ten Commandments
  1. You shall have no other gods.
  2. You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God.
  3. Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.
  4. Honor your father and your mother.
  5. You shall not murder.
  6. You shall not commit adultery.
  7. You shall not steal.
  8. You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
  9. You shall not covet your neighbor’s house.
  10. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.

Bible Verse for Memorizing - Trinity XX (October 21)

"As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts, (declares the LORD)." (Isaiah 55:9)

Thursday, October 11, 2007

Daily Readings for October 15 - 20

Monday
Matthew 9:1-8
1 John 1:1-10

Tuesday

Exodus 20:1-3, 18-21
1 John 2:1-17

Wednesday
Genesis 28:10-17
1 John 5:1-3

Thursday
Exodus 32:15-35
Luke 10:1-9

Friday
Luke 23:13-25
1 John 5:10-21

Saturday
Ephesians 5:15–21
Matthew 22:1–14

Small Catechism for Memorizing - Trinity XIX (October 14)

The Close of the Commandments: What does God say about all these Commandments? He says, “I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate Me, but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love Me and keep My commandments.” (Exodus 20:5-6)

What does this mean? God threatens to punish all who break these commandments. Therefore, we should fear His wrath and not do anything against them. But He promises grace and every blessing to all who keep these commandments. Therefore, we should also love and trust in Him and gladly do what He commands.

Bible Verse for Memorizing - Trinity XIX (October 14)

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made." (John 1:1-3)

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

Immanuel Lutheran School

What if Immanuel Lutheran School earned a penny every time you searched the Internet or shopped online? Well, now we can!

GoodSearch.com is a new search engine that donates half its revenue, about a penny per search, to the charities its users designate. You use it just as you would any search engine, and it's powered by Yahoo!, so you get great results. GoodShop.com is a new online shopping mall which donates a percentage of each purchase to your favorite cause. More than 100 great stores including The Gap, Best Buy and Barnes and Noble have teamed up with GoodSearch and every time you place an order, you'll be supporting your favorite cause.

Just go to www.goodsearch.com and be sure to enter Immanuel Lutheran School (Alexandria, VA) as the charity you want to support. And, be sure to spread the word!

http://www.goodsearch.com/?charityid=856088 gets you directly to goodsearch with ILS "pre populated" in the "Who Do You Search For" box. Be careful when you manually enter it because there are many similar listings when you choose Immanuel Lutheran School. Look for Immanuel Lutheran School (Alexandria, VA).

Tuesday, October 9, 2007

Art on the Avenue


ILS had a booth at the local community fair this past Saturday. Children had the opportunity to create bookmarks and were given balloons and rulers with Immanuel's name on them.

Thanks to all the parents, teachers and others who helped!

Sunday, October 7, 2007

A Buckeye Fan in Michigan

Former teacher Kurt Schmidt has a blog - surprisingly, mostly Cleveland Indians stuff. (I love it that they're crushing the Yankees.) Check it out.

Thursday, October 4, 2007

Daily Readings for October 8 - 13

Monday:
Matthew 22:34
James 3:1-18

Tuesday:
Matthew 5:33
James 4:1—5:6

Wednesday:
Luke 23:33
James 5:12-20

Thursday:
1 Kings 21:1
1 Peter 3:1-7

Friday:
Genesis 3:1
1 Peter 3:15-22

Saturday:
Ephesians 4:22–28
Matthew 9:1–8

Small Catechism for Memorizing - Trinity XVIII (October 7)

The Tenth Commandment: You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.

What does this mean? We should fear and love God so that we do not entice or force away our neighbor’s wife, workers, or animals, or turn them against him, but urge them to stay and do their duty.

Bible Verse for Memorizing - Trinity XVIII (October 7)

"By the Word of the LORD the heavens were made, and all the host of them by the breath of His mouth." (Psalm 33:6)

Thursday, September 27, 2007

Readings for October 1 - 6

Monday:
Luke 14:1-11
Hebrews 11:17-40

Tuesday:

Matthew 5:33-45
Hebrews 12:1-17

Wednesday:
Luke 23:33-43
Hebrews 13:1-25

Thursday:
1 Kings 21:1-16
James 1:1-15

Friday:
Genesis 3:1-8
James 2:1-13

Saturday:
1 Corinthians 1:1–9
Matthew 22:34–46

Small Catechism for Memorizing - Trinity XVII (September 30)

The Eighth Commandment: You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
What does this mean? We should fear and love God so that we do not tell lies about our neighbor, betray him, slander him, or hurt his reputation, but defend him, speak well of him, and explain everything in the kindest way.

The Ninth Commandment: You shall not covet your neighbor’s house.
What does this mean? We should fear and love God so that we do not scheme to get our neighbor’s inheritance or house, or get it in a way which only appears right, but help and be of service to him in keeping it.

Bible Verse for Memorizing - Trinity XVII (September 30)

"Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." (Luke 14:11)

Thursday, September 20, 2007

Readings for September 24 - 29

Monday:
Luke 7:11-17
Hebrews 7:1-28

Tuesday:
Genesis 13:1-12
Hebrews 8:1-13

Wednesday:
1 Kings 17:17-24
Hebrews 9:1-10

Thursday:
Luke 19:1-10
Hebrews 9:16-28

Friday:
Genesis 2:8-25
Hebrews 10:1-34

Saturday:
Ephesians 4:1–6
Luke 14:1–11

Small Catechism for Memorizing - Trinity XVI (September 23)

The Sixth Commandment: You shall not commit adultery.
What does this mean?
We should fear and love God so that we lead a sexually pure and decent life in what we say and do, and husband and wife love and honor each other.

The Seventh Commandment: You shall not steal.
What does this mean? We should fear and love God so that we do not take our neighbor’s money or possessions, or get them in any dishonest way, but help him to improve and protect his possessions and income.

Bible Verse for Memorizing - Trinity XVI (September 23)

"Whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all." (James 2:10)

Thursday, September 13, 2007

Readings for September 17 - 22

Monday:
Matthew 6:24-34
Titus 3:1-8


Tuesday:
Luke 2:41-52
Philemon 1-25


Wednesday:
1 Kings 17:8-16
Hebrews 1:1-14


Thursday:
Genesis 1:20-31
Hebrews 2:9-18


Friday:
Genesis 2:1-7
Matthew 9:9-13


Saturday:
Ephesians 3:13–21
Luke 7:11–17

Small Catechism for Memorizing - Trinity XV (September 16)

The Fourth Commandment: Honor your father and your mother.
What does this mean? We should fear and love God so that we do not despise or anger our parents and other authorities, but honor them, serve and obey them, love and cherish them.


The Fifth Commandment: You shall not murder.

What does this mean? We should fear and love God so that we do not hurt or harm our neighbor in his body, but help and support him in every physical need.

Bible Verse for Memorizing - Trinity XV (September 16)

"Do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on.... Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." (Matthew 6:25, 33)

Thursday, September 6, 2007

Daily Readings for September 9 - 15

Sunday:
2 Kings 6:1–23
Philippians 1:21—2:11


Monday:
2 Kings 9:1–13; 10:18–29
Philippians 2:12–30


Tuesday:
2 Chronicles 29:1–24
Philippians 3:1–21


Wednesday:
2 Chronicles 31:1–21
Philippians 4:1–23


Thursday:
2 Chronicles 32:1–22
Colossians 1:1–23


Friday:
2 Chronicles 33:1–25
Colossians 1:24—2:7


Saturday:
2 Chronicles 34:1–4, 8–11, 14–33
Colossians 2:8–23

Small Catechism for Memorizing - Trinity XIV (September 9)

The Second Commandment: You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God.

What does this mean? We should fear and love God so that we do not curse, swear, use satanic arts, lie, or deceive by His name, but call upon it in every trouble, pray, praise, and give thanks.


The Third Commandment: Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.

What does this mean? We should fear and love God so that we do not despise preaching and His Word, but hold it sacred and gladly hear and learn it.

Bible Verse for Memorizing - Trinity XIV (September 9)

“And [the ten lepers] lifted up their voices and said, ‘Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!’” (Luke 17:13)

Tuesday, August 28, 2007

Daily Readings for September 2 - 8

Sunday:
1 Kings 18:20-40
Ephesians 2:1-22

Monday:
1 Kings 19:1–21
Ephesians 3:1–2

Tuesday:
2 Kings 2:1–18
Ephesians 4:1–24

Wednesday:
2 Kings 2:19–25; 4:1–7
Ephesians 4:25—5:14

Thursday:
2 Kings 4:8–22, 32–37
Ephesians 5:15–33

Friday:
2 Kings 4:38—5:8
Ephesians 6:1–24

Saturday:
2 Kings 5:9–27
Philippians 1:1–20

Small Catechism for Memorizing - Trinity XIII (September 2)

Christian Questions with Their Answers

20. But what should you do if you are not aware of this need and have no hunger and thirst for the Sacrament?


To such a person no better advice can be given than this: first, he should touch his body to see if he still has flesh and blood. Then he should believe what the Scriptures say of it in Galatians 5 and Romans 7.

Second, he should look around to see whether he is still in the world, and remember that there will be no lack of sin and trouble, as Scriptures say in John 15-16 and in 1 John 2 and 5.

Third, he will certainly have the devil also around him, who with his lying and murdering day and night will let him have no peace, within or without, as the Scriptures picture him in John 8 and 16; 1 Peter 5; Ephesians 6; and 2 Timothy 2.

Bible Verse for Memorizing - Trinity XIII (September 2)

Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. (Romans 13:1-2)

Friday, August 24, 2007

New Teacher Appointed

Immanuel Lutheran Church and School is pleased to announce the addition of Mr. Gregory Chudy to our teaching staff. Mr. Chudy received the Bachelor of Arts degree in History and the Master in Teaching degree in Secondary Social Studies Education from the University of Virginia. Mr. Chudy’s teaching experience has ranged from tutoring children of immigrant and homeless families to managing an education program for youth ages 5 – 18 for the 4-H to teaching American History and Civics units at Western Albemarle High School in Crozet, VA. Mr. Chudy is fluent in Spanish and has a working knowledge of Ancient Greek. His professional qualifications include the Virginia Teacher Licensure with endorsement in Social Studies Education. He is a member of St. Athanasius Lutheran Church in Vienna.

On September 4, 2007, Immanuel Lutheran School will begin its 63rd year of providing outstanding education that is distinctly Christian. We are committed to continuing and expanding our classical academy approach, including instruction in Latin, mathematics, grammar, writing, history, and science.

For more information or to enroll your children, please call 703-549-7323, visit our web site (http://immanuelalexandria.org), or email school@immanuelalexandria.org.

Daily Readings for August 26 - September 1

Sunday:
1 Kings 8:22–30, 46–63
2 Corinthians 4:1–18

Monday:
1 Kings 9:1-9; 10:1-13
2 Corinthians 5:1-21

Tuesday:
1 Kings 11:1-26
2 Corinthians 6:1-18

Wednesday:
1 Kings 11:42—12:19
2 Corinthians 7:1-16

Thursday:
1 Kings 12:20—13:5, 33-34
2 Corinthians 8:1-24

Friday:
1 Kings 16:29—17:24
2 Corinthians 9:1-15

Saturday:
1 Kings 18:1-19
Ephesians 1:1-23

Small Catechism for Memorizing - Trinity XII (August 26)

Christian Questions with Their Answers

What motivated Christ to die and make full payment for your sins? His great love for His Father and for me and other sinners, as it is written in John 14; Romans 5; Galatians 2; and Ephesians 5.


Finally, why do you wish to go to the Sacrament? That I may learn to believe that Christ, out of great love, died for my sin, and also learn from Him to love God and my neighbor.


What should admonish and encourage a Christian to receive the Sacrament frequently? First, both the command and the promise of Christ the Lord. Second, his own pressing need, because of which the command, encouragement, and promise are given.

Bible Verse for Memorizing - Trinity XII (August 26)

And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. Be at peace among yourselves. (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13)

Sunday, August 19, 2007

Daily Readings for August 19 - 25

Sunday:
2 Samuel 11:1–27
1 Corinthians 11:17–34

Monday:
2 Samuel 12:1–25
1 Corinthians 12:1–13

Tuesday:
1 Kings 1:1–4, 15–35
1 Corinthians 12:14–31

Wednesday:
1 Kings 2:1–27
1 Corinthians 13:1–13

Thursday:
1 Kings 3:1–15
2 Corinthians 1:1–22

Friday:
1 Kings 5:1–18
2 Corinthians 1:23—2:17

Saturday:
1 Kings 7:51—8:21
2 Corinthians 3:1–18


Saturday, August 18, 2007

Small Catechism for Memorizing - Trinity XI (August 19)

Christian Questions with Their Answers

15. What should we do when we eat His body and drink His blood, and in this way receive His pledge? We should remember and proclaim His death and the shedding of His blood, as He taught us: This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.

16. Why should we remember and proclaim His death? First, so that we may learn to believe that no creature could make satisfaction for our sins. Only Christ, true God and man, could do that. Second, so we may learn to be horrified by our sins, and to regard them as very serious. Third, so we may find joy and comfort in Christ alone, and through faith in Him be saved.

Bible Verse for Memorizing - Trinity XI (August 19)

Let him who is taught the word share in all good things with him who teaches. Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. (Galatians 6:6-7)

Thursday, August 16, 2007

Interim Principal Appointed

Immanuel Lutheran Church and School is pleased to announce the appointment of Jackquelyn Veith as interim principal to begin the 2007-2008 school year. Mrs. Veith received the Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Oklahoma in French and Spanish, and the Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction from Concordia University, Wisconsin. For the last 22 years she has worked at Messmer Catholic Schools in Milwaukee, Wisconsin where she has served as a teacher, Director of Language Arts, Director of Honors Program, Director of Assessment and Curriculum, and Assistant Principal. She holds five educational certifications in Wisconsin (Principal, Reading Teacher PK—12, Reading Specialist PK—12, French 7-12, and Spanish 7-12). Her duties at Immanuel will begin on August 24. Mrs. Veith is married to Dr. Gene Edward Veith, Academic Dean at Patrick Henry College and noted author in the fields of education, culture, and religion.


On September 4, 2007, Immanuel Lutheran School will begin its 63rd year of providing outstanding education that is distinctly Christian. We are committed to continuing and expanding our classical academy approach, including instruction in Latin, mathematics, grammar, writing, history, and science.


For more information or to enroll your children, please call 703-549-7323, visit our web site (http://immanuelalexandria.org), or email school@immanuelalexandria.org.

Saturday, August 11, 2007

Daily Readings for August 12 - 18

Sunday:
1 Samuel 28:3–25
1 Corinthians 6:1–20

Monday:
1 Samuel 31:1–13
1 Corinthians 7:1–24

Tuesday:
2 Samuel 1:1–27
1 Corinthians 7:25–40

Wednesday:
2 Samuel 5:1–25
1 Corinthians 8:1–13

Thursday:
2 Samuel 6:1–19
1 Corinthians 9:1–23

Friday:
2 Samuel 7:1–17
1 Corinthians 9:24—10:22

Saturday:
2 Samuel 7:18–29
1 Corinthians 10:23—11:16

Small Catechism for Memorizing - Trinity X (August 12)

Christian Questions with Their Answers

12. What are the words of institution? Our Lord Jesus Christ, on the night when He was betrayed, took bread, and when He had given thanks, He broke it and gave it to the disciples and said: “Take eat; this is My body, which is given for you. This do in remembrance of Me.

In the same way also He took the cup after supper, and when He had given thanks, He gave it to them, saying: “Drink of it, all of you; this cup is the new testament in My blood, which is shed for you for the forgiveness of sins. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.


13. Do you believe, then, that the true body and blood of Christ are in the Sacrament? Yes, I believe it.


14. What convinces you to believe this? The word of Christ: Take, eat, this is My body; drink of it, all of you, this is My blood.

Bible Verse for Memorizing - Trinity X (August 12)

“The Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.” (1 Corinthians 9:14)

Wednesday, August 8, 2007

Lutheran UpRites

It's almost time for football season and that means football pool time. Our league is called Lutheran UpRites (get it? A pun within a pun...). Pastor Esget is offering a prize to the winner - most likely a theological book emphasizing Christian virtues such as humility...

Rules are as follows:

There is no monetary commitment for this pool....just good fun going head-to-head against your fellow Lutherans. The season starts Sep 9th.

The pool includes all NFL and the top 15 college football games each week for 17 weeks.

Feel free to invite to anyone from Immanuel you'd like (or other Lutherans in your family). Send an email address to
paul.hinterleitner { at } ennovex.com
and he will send the invitation.

Each game is weighted: you pick the winner and weigh according to how confident you are in that pick. The higher the weight; the more confident you are e.g. There are 31 games until the bye weeks. Assign 31 points to the game you are most confident you've picked correctly, 30 to the next most confident, etc down to 1. Once bye weeks start your most confident game will be assigned 29 down to 1. Ties will broken by total score selected for MNF.

Sunday, August 5, 2007

Daily Readings: August 5 - 11

Sunday:
1 Samuel 19:1–24
Acts 28:1–15
Monday:
1 Samuel 20:1–23
Acts 28:16–31

Tuesday:
1 Samuel 20:24–42
1 Corinthians 1:1–25

Wednesday:
1 Samuel 24:1–22
1 Corinthians 1:26—2:16

Thursday:
1 Samuel 25:1–22
1 Corinthians 3:1–23

Friday:
1 Samuel 25:23–44
1 Corinthians 4:1–21

Saturday:
1 Samuel 26:1–25
1 Corinthians 5:1–13

Saturday, August 4, 2007

Small Catechism for Memorizing - Trinity IX (August 5)

Christian Questions with Their Answers

9. What has Christ done for you that you trust in Him? He died for me and shed His blood for me on the cross for the forgiveness of sins.


10. Did the Father also die for you? He did not. The Father is God only, as is the Holy Spirit; but the Son is both true God and true man. He died for me and shed His blood for me.


11. How do you know this? From the Holy Gospel, from the words instituting the Sacrament, and by His body and blood given me as a pledge in the Sacrament.

Bible Verse for Memorizing - Trinity IX (August 5)

[A bishop] must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it. (Titus 1:9)

Sunday, July 29, 2007

Daily Readings for July 29 - August 4

Sunday:
1 Samuel 14:47—15:9
Acts 24:1–23


Monday:

1 Samuel 15:10–35
Acts 24:24—25:12



Tuesday:
1 Samuel 16:1–23
Acts 25:13–27


Wednesday:
1 Samuel 17:1–19
Acts 26:1–23



Thursday:
1 Samuel 17:20–47
Acts 26:24—27:8


Friday:
1 Samuel 17:48—18:9
Acts 27:9–26


Saturday:
1 Samuel 18:10–30
Acts 27:27–44

Small Catechism for Memorizing – Trinity VIII (July 29)

Christian Questions with Their Answers


5. Do you hope to be saved? Yes, that is my hope.

6. In whom then do you trust? In my dear Lord Jesus Christ.

7. Who is Christ? The Son of God, true God and man.

8. How many Gods are there? Only one, but there are three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Bible Verse for Memorizing – Trinity VIII (July 29)

[A bishop must not be] a novice, lest being puffed up with pride he fall into the same condemnation as the devil. (1 Timothy 3:6)

Thursday, July 26, 2007

Dumpster, Part Deux

Please help!

The Trustees have scheduled another workday for this Saturday, July 28, at 9 a.m.

Our primary tasks will be removing the items from the old front entrance of the church and the stage that are destined for the dumpster. Last week we had many helpers and the work went quickly - we were done well before the expected 3 p.m. If you can help at all, please come.

Last weekend I titled "The Cleansing of the Temple." I hereby entitle this weekend: Dumpster, Part Deux [Or, Dumpster, Part Dieu :) ]

Sunday, July 22, 2007

Dumpster o' Delight

Ah, progress!

We threw the junk down this hill...

...where it was broken up by men with steel saws and iron wills...

...and tossed into the Dumpster o' Delight:

Here the DoD sits, awaiting the nice men from Waste Management to empty her so we can begin Cleansing of the Temple: The Sequel (or, Dumpster, Part Deux).

Productive Weekend, II

These areas were filled with school desks, chairs, and books that had been replaced but not discarded. There were a lot of sore backs but smiling faces this morning, as we began to reclaim our church from the tyranny of clutter.



Productive Weekend

Look at these wonderfully empty rooms! An excellent group of people came out this weekend to help empty the clutter. These rooms are now clear for the workers to come in and make the rooms usable until the major renovation project can begin.



CARE

My high school band director used to have a big sign posted at the front of the rehearsal room: CARE.

After Divine Service this morning, when almost everyone had left, my wife caught somebody caring. It was not asked for or expected. But it was appreciated. Thanks for caring!

Saturday, July 21, 2007

Renovation Preparations: Removing Useless Clutter

Some of these pictures illustrate both the clutter that we began cleaning out this weekend, as well as the damage and decay in the old building. Here is a hallway stacked with old useless desks and other junk. It was embarrassing to take people down this hallway:

The original front entrance of the church became a place for stashing more unused, unstable desks and chairs.

Another view of the original front entrance, riddled with unused furniture:
This weekend we began to reorient the culture of compulsive hoarding that was coming to characterize Immanuel. Junk from more than half a century filled this room; several attempts at cleaning were begun in the past, only to find more junk appearing.

School desk-chairs, old hymnals, and trash are stacked from floor to ceiling:

This is a Sunday School room! The demolition of this room begins Monday.

More water damage and mold in the Sunday School rooms:


Unused lockers and desks that need to be thrown away:

Lockers, a non-functioning computer, and boxes of junk:

More mold and water damage:

Thank you, Immanuel, for taking action to Build Immanuel's Future!

Immanuel at the White House

Several of us from Immanuel were privileged to be at the White House for President Bush's speech regarding the veto of federal funding for embryonic stem cell research, which would destroy human children in their earliest stages of development and set a dangerous precedent that there are "lives unworthy of life." Here are a few pictures from that event.

Holy Baptism: Sofiya Kieselowsky


It's been more than a month now, but I finally uploaded my pictures from Sofiya's Baptism. Red for Pentecost!

Wednesday, July 18, 2007

Please Help: Cleansing of the Temple Weekend

This weekend will be our extensive clean-up effort focusing on the "old church" building.

  • The dumpster will be delivered on Friday. We plan to start at noon on Friday and work until 4:00pm.
  • Saturday we will start at 9:00am and work until 3:00pm (depending on the number of helpers).
  • On Sunday work will begin directly after Divine Service and go as long as needed.
If you can help at any of these times, it would be greatly appreciated!
On Monday Pocai Painting Co. is scheduled to begin work on the upper classroom/office area (damaged by the leaking roof), making it usable again until major renovations begin. Demo will be the first item on their agenda, so obviously that area needs to be completely clear.

Why are we doing this now?

As you may know, there are significant problems with the building (asbestos, mold, frayed wiring, and what our esteemed president has termed "third-world latrines"). In addition, certain areas of the old church have accumulated more than half a century's worth of broken furniture, outdated textbooks, and other items. This is not just a "cleaning project." Any renovation of the building will require removing everything that we do not need. If there are items that are personally dear to you, you are welcome to remove them - but please do so by Friday. If there are items that you need for ongoing work, please clearly label them "Save" if you have not done so already.

A chairman for the Building & Renovation Committee has been appointed (Paul Techau). The remainder of the committee is being formed, and some significant donations have already been received. Further information and our next steps will be publicized by early autumn. We are excited about the future of Immanuel. See you this weekend!

Sunday, July 15, 2007

Daily Readings for July 15 - 21

Sunday:
Judges 15:1—16:3

Galatians 3:23—4:11

Monday:
Judges 16:4–30
Galatians 4:12–31


Tuesday:
1 Samuel 1:1–20
Galatians 5:1–26


Wednesday:
1 Samuel 1:21—2:17
Galatians 6:1–18


Thursday:
1 Samuel 2:18–36
Acts 15:22–41


Friday:
1 Samuel 3:1–21
Acts 16:1–22


Saturday:
1 Samuel 4:1–22
Acts 16:23–40

Bible Verse for Memorizing – Trinity VI (July 15)

Likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 6:11)

Small Catechism for Memorizing – Trinity VI (July 15)

The Close of the Commandments

What does God say about all these commandments? He says: “I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate Me, but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love Me and keep My commandments.”

What does this mean? God threatens to punish all who break these commandments. Therefore, we should fear His wrath and not do anything against them. But He promises grace and every blessing to all who keep these commandments. Therefore, we should also love and trust in Him and gladly do what He commands.

Tuesday, July 3, 2007

Daily Readings: July 8 – 14

Sunday:
Judges 3:7–31
Acts 13:42–52

Monday:
Judges 4:1–24
Acts 14:1–18

Tuesday:
Judges 6:1–24
Acts 14:19—15:5

Wednesday:
Judges 6:25–40
Acts 15:6–21

Thursday:
Judges 7:1–23
Galatians 1:1–24

Friday:
Judges 13:1–25
Galatians 2:1–21

Saturday:
Judges 14:1–20
Galatians 3:1–22

Small Catechism for Memorizing – Trinity V (July 8)

The Sixth Petition of the Lord’s Prayer: And lead us not into temptation.

What does this mean? God tempts no one. We pray in this petition that God would guard and keep us so that the devil, the world, and our sinful nature may not deceive us or mislead us into false belief, despair, and other great shame and vice. Although we are attacked by these things, we pray that we may finally overcome them and win the victory.

Bible Verse for Memorizing – Trinity V (July 8)

But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear. (1 Peter 3:15)

Friday, June 29, 2007

Daily Readings: July 1 - 7

Sunday:
Joshua 6:6–27
Acts 10:18–33

Monday:
Joshua 7:1–26
Acts 10:34–48

Tuesday:
Joshua 8:1–28
Acts 11:1–18

Wednesday:
Joshua 10:1–25
Acts 11:19–30

Thursday:
Joshua 23:1–16
Acts 12:1–25

Friday:
Joshua 24:1–31
Acts 13:1–12

Saturday:
Judges 2:6–23
Acts 13:13–41

Bible verse for memorizing – Trinity IV (July 1)

"Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful."
(Luke 6:36)

Small Catechism for memorizing – Trinity IV (July 1)

The Fifth Petition of the Lord’s Prayer: And forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.

What does this mean? We pray in this petition that our Father in heaven would not look at our sins, or deny our prayer because of them. We are neither worthy of the things for which we pray, nor have we deserved them, but we ask that He would give them all to us by grace, for we daily sin much and surely deserve nothing but punishment. So we too will sincerely forgive and gladly do good to those who sin against us.

Thursday, June 21, 2007

Daily Readings: June 24 - 30

Sunday:
Proverbs 30:1–9, 18–33
John 20:19–31


Monday:
Proverbs 31:10–31
John 21:1–25


Tuesday:
Joshua 1:1–18
Acts 8:1–25


Wednesday:
Joshua 2:1–24
Acts 8:26–40


Thursday:
Joshua 3:1–17
Acts 9:1–22


Friday:
Joshua 4:1–24
Acts 9:23–43


Saturday:
Joshua 5:1—6:5
Acts 10:1–17

Bible verse for memorizing - Trinity III (June 24)

"But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth." (John 4:23-24)

Small Catechism for memorizing - Trinity III (June 24)

The Third Commandment – Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.


What does this mean? We should fear and love God so that we do not despise preaching and His Word, but hold it sacred and gladly hear and learn it.

Thursday, June 14, 2007

Daily Readings: June 17 - 23

Sunday:
Proverbs 17:1–28
John 16:17–33

Monday:
Proverbs 20:5–25
John 17:1–26

Tuesday:
Proverbs 22:1–21
John 18:1–14

Wednesday:
Proverbs 22:22—23:12
John 18:15–40

Thursday:
Proverbs 24:1–22
John 19:1–22

Friday:
Proverbs 25:1–22
John 19:23–42

Saturday:
Proverbs 27:1–24
John 20:1–18

Small Catechism for memorizing - Trinity II (June 17)

The Third Commandment – Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.

What does this mean? We should fear and love God so that we do not despise preaching and His Word, but hold it sacred and gladly hear and learn it.