Traveling with the Schroeders -- Disney 2024

Not a bad place for some reading.

Update from Good Shepherd (June 27, 2024)

Greetings!

SUMMER SCHEDULE 

Divine Service is Sunday at 10:00 AM.
Sunday School resumes on Sunday, September 8.
Adult Bible Class resumes on Sunday, September 8.
Bible Matters will resume in September.

CALENDAR: For a calendar of events and meetings, click here.

INTRODUCTION VIDEO FOR GOOD SHEPHERD LUTHERAN CHURCH
          Here is a video to introduce people to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church of Novi. Share it as much as you can.

OPEN FORUM HIGHLIGHTS (June)

>    A down payment of about $13,000 was paid to the Johnson Sign Co. to begin the work on installing the LED sign for church.  Currently, the delay is due to needing the City of Novi to issue a variance so that the sign can be placed a little closer to the road.  We do anticipate that the variance will be issued, but it will not be addressed by the City of Novi until July 10.   We thank the new members who have come from Lola Park for their generous contribution toward the purchase of this sign!

>    Dan Schneider has had contact with the City of Novi to see if they will follow up on their proposal to install a new, more handicapped friendly sidewalk.  It would go out the door to the south and end at about the 4^th parking space on the east side of the parking lot.  If the City of Novi has the funds to install it, they will likely try to get it done before the November election.  There has been no further update from the City of Novi for this project.

>    A suggestion was made to improve the tinting on the window above the altar.  Anyone who sits on the north side of the church in the summer knows how blinding it can be.  We will explore options to limit the effects of glaring sunlight on our worshipers.

FAMILY FUN NIGHT WITH FOOD TRUCK
            On Thursday, August 8, we will be hosting a night of fun and food. We will have a food truck from Messy Ace’s Ribshack. In addition, we will have a bouncy house for kids as well as various lawn games. (A putt-putt golf course is a possibility.) Food will be served around 6:00 PM and people are welcome to stay as long as the sunlight holds out. Invite your friends to join us.

EVERYONE OUTREACH
             We would like to foster an outreach mindset that permeates throughout our congregation. In order to establish this as a culture in our congregation, we are encouraging all members of Good Shepherd to attend a one-day seminar on Saturday, September 21. We are seeking a commitment both to the seminar (which will run from 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM) and to the outreach culture we want embedded in our thinking, planning, and interacting. We will need at least 20 people in attendance to make the seminar worthwhile. There is a sign-up sheet at church to indicate if you will be in attendance.

 GOOD SHEPHERD ON YOUTUBE

          Services are uploaded to YouTube each week. Feel free to share the videos. Here is the service from June 16, 2024: Good Shepherd Novi, Divine Service, June 16, 2024 (youtube.com)

SUMMER OFFICE HOURS
            During the summer months, it is more enjoyable to read outside than in the office, weather permitting. Call or text to confirm any meetings with the pastor (248-719-5218). 

 

DO YOU LIKE US?

          Look for Good Shepherd on Facebook. Then “LIKE” us for updates and other postings. Be sure to share posts with friends.

SHARE THIS POST!
          We desire as many as possible to rejoice in the Gospel which we proclaim and confess. Share the information from our weekly email blast, links to our web page, and even to the pastor's blog to let others know that we have a space in our congregation for them!

In Christ,
Pastor Schroeder

==============================

SUMMER SCHEDULE
DIVINE SERVICES are on Sundays at 10:00 AM.
Sunday School resumes on Sunday, September 8.
Adult Bible Class resumes on Sunday, September 8.
Bible Matters will resume in September.

GOOD SHEPHERD’S WEBSITE
www.GoodShepherdNovi.org

PASTOR SCHROEDER’S BLOG
www.LutheranSubject.blogspot.com 

Sermon -- 5th Sunday after Pentecost (June 23, 2024)

JOB 38:1-11

ALL THINGS SERVE AT GOD’S COMMAND.

In the name + of Jesus.

     The patriarch Job endured tremendous loss, pain, and shame.  In one day, sole surviving servants reported the confiscation of his oxen, the destruction of his sheep, the capture of his camels, the violent death of almost all his servants, and the death of all his children as the house of the oldest collapsed on all of them.  Shortly thereafter, Job’s health was afflicted, leaving him a shriveled and festering shadow of his former self.  Because of these events, Job went from a position of prominence and honor to being the laughingstock of society.  The question to consider is this: Who was responsible for Job’s suffering—the Lord, or the devil?

     Atheists challenge God’s existence by challenging God’s goodness.  They demand an answer for this: “If God is so good, then why is there suffering in the world, especially for those who say they believe in him?”  If you are honest, you’ve had bouts with this same question.  How does one answer?  In an effort to uphold God’s honor, we might rationalize pain and suffering this way: God is responsible for all our blessings, but the devil is responsible for all our problems.  That sounds great, because then we can say that God is good and the devil is bad.  But if the devil is responsible for evil and bad things keep on happening, does that mean that God isn’t always in control, or maybe doesn’t pay attention?  Who is responsible—the Lord, or the devil?

     The book of Job does not seem to offer any clarity.  The devil challenged Job’s faithfulness.  He said to the Lord, “‘You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land.  But stretch out your hand and touch all that he has, and he will curse you to your face.’  And the Lord said to Satan, ‘Behold, all that he has is in your hand’” (Job 1:10-12).  So, who was responsible for Job’s suffering—the Lord, or the devil? 

     St. John’s Revelation says this: “The dragon (that is, the devil) became furious with the woman (that is, the Church) and went off to make war on the rest of her offspring, on those who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus” (Revelation 12:17).  So, the devil fights against you.  He brings evil upon you.  Yet, King Solomon wrote this: “In the day of prosperity be joyful, and in the day of adversity consider: God has made the one as well as the other” (Ecclesiastes 7:14).  So, who is responsible for the evils we endure—the Lord, or the devil?  The answer is: Both.  All things serve at God’s command, even the devil.

     If you are confused by all this, you are not alone.  Job did not understand it, either.  He had not done anything to rebel against God.  Job was striving for righteous living, but he suffered miserably nonetheless.  For this, Job wanted to have it out with God.  He demanded answers.  And chances are, you do too.  You strive to serve God faithfully, and yet, sufferings still occur.  Why does a tornado appear from out of nowhere, causing a large tree to crush a house, kill a three-year-old boy, and severely injure his mother?  Why does a drunk driver come out of the crash with minor injuries even though he kills someone?  Why does a faithful Christian get Lou Gehrig’s Disease?  The list of questions is endless; and the demand for answers goes without a reply.

     Well, the Lord did reply to Job.  Job demanded answers; the Lord responded in kind: “Who is this that darkens counsel by words without knowledge?  Dress for action like a man; I will question you, and you make it known to me” (Job 1:2-3).  In his reply to Job, God did not explain himself.  He made it clear that he does not have to.  He is God and we are not.  He reigns over heaven and earth, everything in the earth and everyone on the earth.  The Lord shows that we have no understanding of how the universe runs, let alone every incident in our lives.  The Lord, however, has complete knowledge of all things.  He has authority over all things.  He does whatever he pleases and does not need to explain it.  All things serve at God’s command.

     Psalm 95 reminds us, “The sea is his, for he made it” (Psalm 95:5).  He not only created the seas, he also controls them.  Sailors know that they are at the mercy of the wind and the waves.  Not so the Lord.  He gave the command, and the Flood destroyed the earth.  God spoke again, and the Red Sea waters parted.  God asked Job, “Who shut in the sea with doors when it burst out from the womb … and prescribed limits for it and set bars and doors, and said, ‘Thus far shall you come, and no farther, and here shall your proud waves be stayed’” (Job 38:8,10-11)?  As fiercely as the oceans rage, they obey God’s commands.  They know their limits.  The tides follow God’s appointed schedule.  Tsunamis are the exception, not the rule.  All things serve at God’s command, even tsunamis, storms, the winds, and the waves.

     When a violent storm came upon the apostles on the Sea of Galilee, our Lord sent it.  It must have been bad if the seasoned fishermen were panicking.  Jesus, however, was asleep, exhausted from his ministry.  “They woke him and said to him, ‘Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?’  And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, ‘Peace! Be still!’  And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm” (Mark 4:38-39).  When terror and panic strike, we tend to forget God’s promises.  The apostles had forgotten a promise Jesus made to them.  He called them to be fishers of men and preachers of the word.  That would be impossible to do from the bottom of the Sea of Galilee.  Even in moments of terror and panic, God’s promises stand.

     Job had almost forgotten God’s promises, too.  Job had been faithful to the Lord; he concluded that God had been unfair to him.  But nowhere has God promised that, if we are faithful to him, we will have health, wealth, fame, popularity, comfort, and ease.  He may grant these; he may not.  We don’t know what God’s plans are for us, and he does not tell us.  We might want answers, but God is not obligated to explain himself to us.  What God does tell us is that all things serve at God’s command.

     Do you find any comfort in that?  It depends upon what you know about God.  When rough times come, the devil uses them to get us to question what we know.  When the disciples thought their boat was going down, they rebuked Jesus: “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing” (Mark 4:38)?  Did they really think that Jesus did not care about them?  They knew better.  Of course, Jesus cared.  But isn’t that how it still works?  We get bad news, and we trust our experience and forget God’s nature and his promises.  Job forgot, too.  He knew pain and loss and suffering, so he viewed God as his enemy, not as his heavenly Father.

     God had to remind Job that all things serve at God’s command.  This includes events and experiences that we don’t understand, that are painful, and that are evil.  While it is true that the devil wages war upon you and seeks to destroy you, God remains firmly in control.  The devil’s intentions are always wicked; God uses them for his own purposes.  This sinful world is broken, resulting in diseases, disasters, and decay.  God uses them for his own purposes.  God even uses the crimes and callousness of sinners for his own purposes.  Just ask Pharaoh, Caiaphas, and Judas Iscariot.  Therefore, we can trust that whatever we suffer, God uses it for a good purpose—whether that purpose is to bring us out of this world into glory, or to remove from us worldly treasures that we have loved and trusted too much, or to remind us that the world is evil and that we have a better home.  All things serve at God’s command.  But since we don’t know is what purpose our suffering serves, like Job, we demand answers from God.

     Listen again to God’s reply when answers are demanded from him: “Who is this that darkens counsel by words without knowledge?  Dress for action like a man; I will question you, and you make it known to me.  Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth?  Tell me, if you have understanding.  Who determined its measurements—surely you know!  Or who stretched the line upon it?  On what were its bases sunk, or who laid its cornerstone…” (Job 38:2-6)?  Since you and I cannot answer questions about the creation we see, how can we claim to have a right to know about God’s hidden purposes?

     Our hope and comfort come not from knowing why God does everything he does, or by blaming the devil or God for everything that goes wrong.  It comes from knowing the love that God has made known to us.  That love is revealed in Jesus Christ.  God has put his love and mercy on display for the whole world to know.  Jesus shows sinners that there is hope.  God does not owe us answers, but he has revealed his tender mercy.  Jesus Christ has made atonement for all our sin.  He took up the guilt of our anger against God, our challenging his wisdom, and our conclusion that God is unloving because we did not get all we wanted.  Our Lord does not overlook such arrogance from sinners, but he does pardon it for the sake of Jesus who has paid for those sins and for all sins. 

     All things serve at God’s command.  Jesus served at God’s command to save us from death and damnation.  Thanks to Jesus, God works all things for the eternal good for those who love him.  That stands firm no matter what because God is faithful no matter what.  He never stops being your good and merciful Father in heaven.  It is like the sun which never stops shining.  There may be days upon days where we see nothing but clouds and rain.  But the sun still shines, even if we don’t see it.  So, your heavenly Father is still good and merciful even if you don’t see it.

     All things serve at God’s command.  Sun and rain, land and sea, climates and seasons, birds, fish, and animals.  All events serve at God’s command.  Wars and battles, the rise and fall of kingdoms, famines and earthquakes.  All things serve at God’s command, even the troubles and evils we endure.  The devil seeks to destroy your faith through them.  It is not just to mess with you, but to drive you away from the Lord.  That is why he afflicted Job.  But God uses even the devil’s wicked schemes for his own purpose.  He used the bitter hardships to refine Job’s faith and make it purer.  He may do that for you, too.  But no matter what evils befall you, God is still good.  His grace still shines.  Jesus is still your Savior.  All things serve for your good according to God’s command, and no challenge from the devil can change that.

In the name of the Father and of the Son + and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen.

YouTube -- 4th Sunday after Pentecost (June 16, 2024)

Here is the Divine Service from Sunday, June 16, 2024.

Update from Good Shepherd (June 20, 2024)

Greetings!

SUMMER SCHEDULE 

Divine Service is Sunday at 10:00 AM.
Sunday School resumes on Sunday, September 8.
Adult Bible Class resumes on Sunday, September 8.
Bible Matters will resume in September.

CALENDAR: For a calendar of events and meetings, click here.

INTRODUCTION VIDEO FOR GOOD SHEPHERD LUTHERAN CHURCH
          Here is a video to introduce people to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church of Novi. Share it as much as you can.

OPEN FORUM HIGHLIGHTS (June)

>    A down payment of about $13,000 was paid to the Johnson Sign Co. to begin the work on installing the LED sign for church.  Currently, the delay is due to needing the City of Novi to issue a variance so that the sign can be placed a little closer to the road.  We do anticipate that the variance will be issued, but it will not be addressed by the City of Novi until July 10.   We thank the new members who have come from Lola Park for their generous contribution toward the purchase of this sign!

>    Dan Schneider has had contact with the City of Novi to see if they will follow up on their proposal to install a new, more handicapped friendly sidewalk.  It would go out the door to the south and end at about the 4^th parking space on the east side of the parking lot.  If the City of Novi has the funds to install it, they will likely try to get it done before the November election.  There has been no further update from the City of Novi for this project.

>    A suggestion was made to improve the tinting on the window above the altar.  Anyone who sits on the north side of the church in the summer knows how blinding it can be.  We will explore options to limit the effects of glaring sunlight on our worshipers.

FAMILY FUN NIGHT WITH FOOD TRUCK
            On Thursday, August 8, we will be hosting a night of fun and food. We will have a food truck from Messy Ace’s Ribshack. In addition, we will have a bouncy house for kids as well as various lawn games. (A putt-putt golf course is a possibility.) Food will be served around 6:00 PM and people are welcome to stay as long as the sunlight holds out. Invite your friends to join us.

EVERYONE OUTREACH
             We would like to foster an outreach mindset that permeates throughout our congregation. In order to establish this as a culture in our congregation, we are encouraging all members of Good Shepherd to attend a one-day seminar on Saturday, September 21. We are seeking a commitment both to the seminar (which will run from 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM) and to the outreach culture we want embedded in our thinking, planning, and interacting. We will need at least 20 people in attendance to make the seminar worthwhile. There is a sign-up sheet at church to indicate if you will be in attendance.

 GOOD SHEPHERD ON YOUTUBE

          Services are uploaded to YouTube each week. Feel free to share the videos. Here is the service from June 16, 2024: Good Shepherd Novi, Divine Service, June 16, 2024 (youtube.com)

SUMMER OFFICE HOURS
            During the summer months, it is more enjoyable to read outside than in the office, weather permitting. Call or text to confirm any meetings with the pastor (248-719-5218). 

 

DO YOU LIKE US?

          Look for Good Shepherd on Facebook. Then “LIKE” us for updates and other postings. Be sure to share posts with friends.

SHARE THIS POST!
          We desire as many as possible to rejoice in the Gospel which we proclaim and confess. Share the information from our weekly email blast, links to our web page, and even to the pastor's blog to let others know that we have a space in our congregation for them!

In Christ,
Pastor Schroeder

==============================

SUMMER SCHEDULE
DIVINE SERVICES are on Sundays at 10:00 AM.
Sunday School resumes on Sunday, September 8.
Adult Bible Class resumes on Sunday, September 8.
Bible Matters will resume in September.

GOOD SHEPHERD’S WEBSITE
www.GoodShepherdNovi.org

PASTOR SCHROEDER’S BLOG
www.LutheranSubject.blogspot.com 

Sermon -- 4th Sunday after Pentecost (June 16, 2024)

Some of the thoughts in this sermon came from Pastor Bryan Wolfmueller of St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church (LC-MS) of Austin, Texas. 

MARK 4:26-34

WHEN THE SEED IS PLANTED, SEE HOW IT GROWS.

In the name + of Jesus.

     Jesus told two brief parables, each one about seeds.  The first parable is about how the kingdom of God grows inside each one of us.  The seed is God’s word.  It has been planted in you by the Holy Spirit.  The Holy Spirit continues to work in you to grow and strengthen the faith he has created.  When the seed is planted, see how it grows.

     When the farmer plants the seed, it looks like nothing is happening.  He sees nothing but dirt for a few weeks.  Still, the farmer does not dig up the dirt to see how the seed is coming along.  He trusts that the seed will do what it was created to do.  After a while, he sees the sprouts starting to pop up out of the ground.  As the weeks go by, the stalk begins to grow, and then finally the mature crop comes in.  This is representative of the faith God implants in us.  When the seed is planted, see how it grows.

     We often think of the kingdom of God in concrete terms—with a city and a capitol building and a throne.  But when we pray, “Thy kingdom come,” we are not praying for a government or a nation.  Martin Luther describes our prayer this way: “God’s kingdom comes when our heavenly Father gives his Holy Spirit, so that by his grace we believe his holy word and lead a godly life now and forever in heaven” (Luther’s Small Catechism, 2^nd Petition of the Lord’s Prayer).  Or, as Jesus said, “The kingdom of God is within you” (Luke 17:21).  It is the faith in us by which our Lord leads and guides us as his people.  That gracious rule both saves us and directs us to godly living. When the seed is planted, see how it grows.  Faith is nourished and fed by the word and sacraments.  It is strengthened and continues to grow.  Your salvation remains certain, but your life becomes more godly and your desires become more pure.

     Does that match up with what you see in yourself?  Maybe not as much as you hope for.  We continue to struggle with sin, especially sins that are habitual or temptations that are appealing.  We might become frustrated that we still battle as much as we do and that we fail as much as we do.  This might even lead you to question if your faith is real. 

     God’s word does what it is designed to do—it creates or strengthens faith.  But the growth is slow.  Think of what it was like when you were a little child.  You were waiting for your birthday, which seemed like it took forever to come.  You wanted to be older, and it always seemed so far away.  The same is true for our faith.  Maturity takes time.  It also takes meditation on God’s word, devotion to prayer, and the experience of temptation, hardship, and discipline.  By these, God works in us to increase our trust, to teach us self-control, and to refine our faith.  As long as faith is being fed, it will grow, godly lives will result, and good works will increase.

     The second parable is not about how the kingdom of God grows within us, but how it grows and spreads throughout the world.  Jesus compares it to a mustard seed which, he said, “when sown on the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth, yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes larger than all the garden plants and puts out large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade” (Mark 4:31-32). 

     Those who like to pick a fight with the Bible will be quick to tell you that a mustard seed is not the smallest seed on earth.  Apparently, that title belongs to an orchid.  But Jesus was referring to what is sown in a Palestinian garden.  I don’t know if they even knew what orchids were, but they would not grow orchids to eat them.  A mustard seed, however, would produce something useful in a Palestinian garden.

     The mustard seed is about the size of a speck of pepper.  It seems insignificant, and you would not expect it to produce much.  And isn’t that how the kingdom of God had its beginning?  The prophet Isaiah foretold the Messiah’s appearance this way: “He had no form or majesty that we should look at him, and no beauty that we should desire him” (Isaiah 53:2).  Jesus was an average Jewish peasant, unimpressive in appearance and seemingly insignificant.  His kingdom was established through his sufferings and death.  There, he looked pathetic.  He was a pawn in the power struggles of the priests and the Roman Empire.  He was beaten into a bloody mess, pinned to a cross, and mocked ruthlessly.  No one who witnessed Jesus’ agonizing death would have said, “I am going to be live my life and face my death based on him.”  You cherish the image only because you know that this death is the payment for your sins. 

     Jesus died and was planted in a tomb like a seed.  On the third day, Jesus sprung up from the tomb to live forever.  Then Jesus commissioned his apostles to preach the gospel.  Their listeners repeated the message.  Then as persecuted Christians were scattered, the kingdom of God spread like dandelion fluff that the wind carries off.  The Christian Church continued to spread across the globe.  Today it provides shelter and refuge to people of all nations, languages, and cultures.  When the seed is planted, see how it grows.

     Jesus describes the kingdom of God in such a vivid and wonderful way.  He said that it “puts out large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade” (Mark 4:32).  My Mom used to have bird feeders in her backyard.  She enjoyed watching the various birds feast on the seeds in the feeders.  Occasionally, she would look outside, and there were no birds to be seen anywhere.  That was strange.  So, she walked outside to see what was going on.  Then she looked at the powerline overhead and saw a hawk perched up there.  The birds recognized the predator and were quick to take shelter in the safety of the pine trees.  There, the hawk either could not find them or could not reach them.

     This is exactly what Jesus Christ does for us.  The kingdom of God is our shelter.  It is the refuge that we flee to from all our enemies.  St. Peter reminds us, “Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8).  The devil’s name is Satan, which means Accuser.  The devil continues to accuse you, even dragging up sins that have happened decades ago.  He wants you to despair of God’s promises, thinking that your guilt is so great that God will not forgive you.  After all, if you can’t forget what you did, why should God?  But the devil is a liar.  We flee to Jesus who has destroyed the devil’s kingdom.  We take shelter in the kingdom of God and in the wounds of Jesus.  From those wounds Jesus pours out the holy blood that takes away the sins of the world.  He gives it to us in Holy Communion to feed our faith and to grant us pardon and peace.  Jesus nourishes the seed which has been sown in you.  When the seed is planted, see how it grows.

     Like birds which take shelter in the branches of the mustard tree, so we rest in the shade of God’s kingdom of grace.  There is no fear there.  If you remember the days of Catechism Class, you also remember reciting the Ten Commandments.  In Luther’s explanation of each Commandment, he began with the words, “We should fear and love God….”  We should recognize where true power is found so we don’t fear the things that are powerless.  It is as if God were telling us, “Do not fear your sin.  Jesus has cleansed you in his holy, precious blood.  Your sins do not condemn you.  So, don’t fear sin.  Fear me.”  And again, God says, “Do not fear death or the grave.  Granted, you will be spending a short season in a grave.  Death will come for all, but do not fear it.  Jesus has overcome the grave.  On the Last Day, he will cause you to spring up from your tomb to receive life everlasting.  So, don’t fear death.  Fear me.”  Again, God says, “Don’t fear the devil.  The devil lies and deceives.  He tempts and accuses.  But his words need not alarm you.  Jesus’ words are the only words that matter, and he assures you of your salvation.  So, don’t fear the devil.  Fear me.”  Again, God says, “Don’t fear the world or anything in the world.  Don’t fear natural disasters.  Don’t fear sickness or disease.  Don’t fear crime or war or terrorism.  Don’t fear anyone who would dare to threaten you.  For you are my beloved children, the apple of my eye.  Don’t fear the world.  Fear me.”

     We fear God because he is almighty and we are dust and breath, but we fear and love God because he is our merciful Savior.  With him is security from all that threatens us.  Nothing in the world can bring true harm to us because this world is not our home.  Our home is the kingdom of God.  The life of a Christian may end in this world, but it does not end in the kingdom of God.  We are simply transferred to glory everlasting.  In this world, we delight in God’s word and strive to order our lives according to it.  That will not change when we enter heavenly glory.  In fact, it will only get better.  Our goal is not to establish ourselves in this world; our goal is to dwell in the kingdom of God whether on earth or in heaven. 

     When the seed is planted, see how it grows.  The kingdom of God has spread throughout the world.  In it, people find safety and shelter from all enemies.  As long as you are in the world, there will be predators who want to snatch you away from the kingdom of God.  This may come by threats to your body, life, wealth, reputation, or family.  Even if you lose these, if you remain in Christ, you are safe. 

     The greater threat to your faith, however, comes through those who reject God’s word.  Many, including people in authority or in your circle of friends, promote beliefs which rival and reject God’s word.  Some arguments seem persuasive; others are so popular that it will be very uncomfortable to resist and to stand firm on God’s truth.  The only safe measure is to take refuge in the shelter of God’s kingdom.  The word of the Lord will sustain you against all attacks.  Joining with God’s people and receiving encouragement from them is crucial.  But you must seek this refuge for it to be any good.  It is not enough for the birds to know there is a place to nest; they must reside there.  Therefore, we go where our Lord is at work to save, to forgive, to protect, and to preserve us.  Everlasting life comes only through the seed which is planted in you, and it is preserved only by the gospel which is preached to you and by the sacrament which feeds you.  Blessed is the one takes refuge in the Lord.

In the name of the Father and of the Son + and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen.

Local Tourist -- Motor Muster at Greenfield Village

On Saturday, June 15, the Local Tourist, the Mrs., and the youngest of the children went to Greenfield Village for Motor Muster.  We were hopeful to hear some ragtime music which has been offered at Motor Muster in the past.  Instead, they were advertising 70's rock, but that happened later in the day so we missed that.

My goal was to find a 1966 Chevy Bel-Air or a 1964 Chevy Impala.  Those are the first cars I remember my Dad driving.  I remember the Bel-Air having a spring popping through the vinyl behind the driver.  I managed to not cut myself on it, even though I also remember my Dad often saying, "Stop kicking the seat!"  Still, I am almost certain that I was not responsible for the spring breaking and poking out.

Alas, neither the Bel-Air nor the Impala were on display.  Below is a fraction of the cars that were on display.

Health Update: From June 13 appointment

Yesterday, we met the oncologist to determine what the next course of action will be regarding my Stage 3 lung cancer.  I had a PET scan taken on June 4.  We were to learn the results of that.  The hacking of the Ascension Hospital system is still making everything slow, so the doctor did not have access to the PET scan.  He told us that he would read it later that afternoon and inform us about it.  As of this writing, that still has not happened.

What I was able to do was to have some blood tests, one of which tests for cell mutation.  We scheduled an appointment with a radiation oncologist for next week.  We also have an order put in for an MRI on my brain which may or may not happen, depending on the reading of the PET scan.  If it does happen, the order was marked "Stat," so that could happen next week, too.

There is no concrete plan regarding treatments, either what they will be or when they will begin.  We anticipate that there will be no treatments until after July 4.

For now, we still wait for more results and for more questions to be answered.

I am still in God's hands, and that is a good place to be.

Updates will continue as there is any information to pass along.

Update from Good Shepherd (June 13, 2024)

Greetings!

SUMMER SCHEDULE 

Divine Service is Sunday at 10:00 AM.
Sunday School resumes on Sunday, September 8.
Adult Bible Class resumes on Sunday, September 8.
Bible Matters will resume in September.

CALENDAR: For a calendar of events and meetings, click here.

NEW HYMN
            We will be introducing a new hymn this coming Sunday, “Your Kingdom, O God, Is My Glorious Treasure” (#859). While the tune is not particularly difficult, being familiar with it might make singing it more enjoyable for you. You can find a version of this hymn on YouTube at this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7iq3gb2VJXg

INTRODUCTION VIDEO FOR GOOD SHEPHERD LUTHERAN CHURCH
          Here is a video to introduce people to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church of Novi. Share it as much as you can.

OPEN FORUM HIGHLIGHTS (June)

>    A down payment of about $13,000 was paid to the Johnson Sign Co. to begin the work on installing the LED sign for church.  Currently, the delay is due to needing the City of Novi to issue a variance so that the sign can be placed a little closer to the road.  We do anticipate that the variance will be issued, but it will not be addressed by the City of Novi until July 10.   We thank the new members who have come from Lola Park for their generous contribution toward the purchase of this sign!

>    A one-day evangelism seminar called “Everyone Outreach” will be conducted at Good Shepherd on Saturday, September 21.  It will involve a full morning session (8:00 AM – Noon), lunch, and then a one-hour session in the early afternoon.  In order to establish an outreach culture in our congregation, it is essential that as many from our congregation attend this seminar.  Please reserve the date and commit to being here for an impactful presentation.  A sign-up sheet to express your intention on attending is on the bulletin board in the fellowship hall.

>    Dan Schneider has had contact with the City of Novi to see if they will follow up on their proposal to install a new, more handicapped friendly sidewalk.  It would go out the door to the south and end at about the 4^th parking space on the east side of the parking lot.  If the City of Novi has the funds to install it, they will likely try to get it done before the November election.  There has been no further update from the City of Novi for this project.

>    A suggestion was made to improve the tinting on the window above the altar.  Anyone who sits on the north side of the church in the summer knows how blinding it can be.  We will explore options to limit the effects of glaring sunlight on our worshipers.

 GOOD SHEPHERD ON YOUTUBE

          Services are uploaded to YouTube each week. Feel free to share the videos. Here is the service from June 9, 2024: Good Shepherd Novi, Divine Service, June 9, 2024 (youtube.com)

SUMMER OFFICE HOURS
            During the summer months, it is more enjoyable to read outside than in the office, weather permitting. Call or text to confirm any meetings with the pastor (248-719-5218). 

 

DO YOU LIKE US?

          Look for Good Shepherd on Facebook. Then “LIKE” us for updates and other postings. Be sure to share posts with friends.

SHARE THIS POST!
          We desire as many as possible to rejoice in the Gospel which we proclaim and confess. Share the information from our weekly email blast, links to our web page, and even to the pastor's blog to let others know that we have a space in our congregation for them!

In Christ,
Pastor Schroeder

==============================

SUMMER SCHEDULE
DIVINE SERVICES are on Sundays at 10:00 AM.
Sunday School resumes on Sunday, September 8.
Adult Bible Class resumes on Sunday, September 8.
Bible Matters will resume in September.

GOOD SHEPHERD’S WEBSITE
www.GoodShepherdNovi.org

PASTOR SCHROEDER’S BLOG
www.LutheranSubject.blogspot.com 

YouTube -- 3rd Sunday after Pentecost (June 9, 2024)

Here is the Divine Service from Sunday, June 9, 2024.

Sermon -- 3rd Sunday after Pentecost (June 9, 2024)

MARK 3:20-35

JESUS IS MINDFUL TO CRUSH SATAN’S KINGDOM.

In the name + of Jesus.

      Today’s Gospel introduces two groups who had a problem with Jesus.  The first was his own family.  They saw how much the crowds were demanding of Jesus’ time and attention; and he was not refusing anyone.  St. John’s Gospel tells us that Jesus’ own brothers did not believe in him, at least until after his resurrection.  Perhaps they felt that Jesus was developing a God-complex.  “For they were saying, ‘He is out of his mind’” (Mark 3:21).  So, they went to Jesus to bring him home for some rest and perhaps for a new dose of reality.  Jesus’ mother, however, believed that Jesus is the Son of God.  But he was also her son.  Jesus was so consumed with preaching, teaching, and healing that he did not have a chance to eat.  Well, when a mother finds out her son is not eating, she has to step in.  Perhaps she was also worried that Jesus was heading for a breakdown. 

     The other group were the scribes.  They had traveled all the way from Jerusalem to Capernaum, which was no small hike.  They traveled some 100 miles just to slander Jesus.  They could not deny that Jesus had driven demons out of people.  So, rather than deny the miracles, they sought to discredit them.  They claimed that Jesus only drove out the devils because he was in league with the devil.  Even worse than saying that Jesus was out of his mind, they claimed that he was possessed by Satan. 

     Jesus’ response to them was based on logic as much as theology.  “How can Satan cast out Satan?  If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand.  And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand.  And if Satan has risen up against himself and is divided, he cannot stand, but is coming to an end” (Mark 3:23-26).  Captors don’t willingly discard the plunder they have taken.  When people are taken prisoner, they are trophies of war.  And trophies are prized.

     The devil took captive the entire world when he seized Adam and Eve in their sin.  From that moment, all people enter this world under his influence.  He is the strong one who has bound us all to sin and death.  Although we boast of our free will and that we are not bound to anyone, that is not true.  We are bound to our sins.  We cannot stop sinning even when we want to.  And we are bound to death.  We will not escape the grave.  No one gets out of this world alive.  The devil has laid a claim on all mankind.  He is not called “the prince of this world” for nothing.  And none of us has the strength to overcome his rule or be freed from sin and death.  We are the devil’s trophies, and he has no intention of giving us up.  Satan would never cast out Satan.

     This sinful nature still infects Christians.  It never leaves us, and it seeks to overtake us.  Consider how we regard parts of God’s word.  Jesus told his disciples, “If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him, and if he sins against you seven times in the day, and turns to you seven times, saying, ‘I repent,’ you must forgive him” (Luke 17:3-4).  We think, “Seven times?!  If someone wrongs me three times in a day, I am done with him.  Jesus must be out of his mind to say this.”  Jesus also said, “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’  But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil.  But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also” (Matthew 5:38-39).  Once again, we respond, “Jesus, you are out of your mind.”  Our natural inclination is to say “No” to God.  We may know his word, but our hearts are not set on doing it because there is nothing to be gained for us. 

     If that is how Christians struggle with God’s word, what of unbelievers?  Our society, more and more, is hostile to God’s word.  Although people do not go so far as to call Jesus’ words demonic, there are plenty of other terms which tell us we are headed that way.  If you do not embrace and promote sin, you are some sort of “phobe,” and you sponsor violence against others.  Your rejection of God’s word is expected.  If you confess that God’s word is true and strive to live like it, this world will tell you that you are out of your mind.  They will put pressure on you to adopt worldly ways.  They may even require training to change your confession.  What does God say about people who blaspheme his word and his name?

     Jesus said: “Truly, I say to you, all sins will be forgiven the children of man, and whatever blasphemies they utter” (Mark 3:28).  Are you surprised?  You might expect Jesus to breathe fire or to crush those who speak against him.  But you and I have done that, too.  If not out loud, in our hearts we have challenged Jesus’ words and questioned his wisdom.  “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way” (Isaish 53:6).  And yet, what do we hear?  Jesus forgives this! 

     Jesus is mindful to destroy Satan’s kingdom.  This is why he entered the world.  It is why he drove demons out of people.  It is why he carried a cross out to Mt. Calvary to be killed on it.  It is why he accepted the curse of his Father and the damnation that sinners deserve.  This was to save you from your sins—no matter how violent, no matter how frequent, no matter how intentional, no matter how persistent.  Jesus provides forgiveness for all.  He is mindful to set you free from sin and death, and to crush Satan’s kingdom.  And just as he has done it for you, so also he has done it for the many who still blaspheme Jesus and regard his words as demonic lies.  Jesus did this for the likes of the apostle Paul who blasphemed Jesus and killed Christians.  He did it for the likes of the Syrian general, Naaman, who killed Israelites and took captives from them.  He does this for people today.  There is hope for all. 

     Jesus does not ignore sins; he paid for them so that he can forgive them.  He is not content to let Satan keep what he has stolen.  Jesus said, “No one can enter a strong man's house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man.  Then indeed he may plunder his house” (Mark 3:27).  Jesus is the stronger man who has bound up the strong man.  He let the devil do his worst, letting the devil pin on him every accusation of sin.  The devil rejoiced that he could slay the Son of God who had become sin for us.  But Jesus rose from the dead.  He lives and reigns, victorious over the devil.  The devil no longer can hold people in the guilt of their sins if sins have been taken away.  The devil can no longer taunt us with the fear of death when death has been conquered.  The devil can no longer have a claim on you since you have been baptized into Jesus.  You belong to Jesus, purchased and won by him.  Jesus has plundered the devil’s kingdom, and you are the plunder.  Jesus was mindful to destroy Satan’s kingdom, and you are the prize he has won.

     Jesus does, however, offer stern words of warning for those who persist in their rejection of God’s word.  Jesus said, “Whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is guilty of an eternal sin” (Mark 3:29).  Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit is unbelief.  It is the stubborn rejection of God’s word.  Through the word of God, the Holy Spirit delivers all the benefits that Jesus has won for all mankind.  Jesus did the work, and the Holy Spirit gives the gifts.  To blaspheme the Holy Spirit is to call him a liar.  Whoever does this spurns God’s salvation.  It is not that Jesus refused to carry their sins to the cross; it is that people reject that forgiveness.  It is not that God the Father doesn’t want them saved; it is that people despise God’s grace and salvation.  To blaspheme the Holy Spirit is to reject all his blessings. 

     The gifts the Holy Spirit brings are listed at the end of the Apostles’ Creed.  You may have thought that the final points of that Creed are random things that just got thrown on the end to round out our confession.  “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.”  These are not random things; they are what the Holy Spirit brings through the word and sacraments.  He delivers you out of Satan’s kingdom into Christ’s Church.  He joins you to all the saints in heaven and on earth into one family of believers.  He bestows upon you the forgiveness won by Jesus.  Jesus’ sufferings and death were 2,000 years ago, but the Holy Spirit has applied it to you now in your baptism and reaffirms it in the absolution.  He will breathe new life into you at the resurrection and will raise up your body in glory.  And he will usher you into a kingdom of glory that will never end. 

     Jesus is mindful to destroy Satan’s kingdom.  But everyone who rejects the Holy Spirit remains a captive of the devil—deceived, deluded, and depraved.  Whoever refuses this good news will finally get what they wish for—they die apart from it.  They remain in Satan’s kingdom and will perish.  That is why blasphemy against the Holy Spirit is unforgiveable.  For, there is no forgiveness or salvation outside of Jesus.  But with Jesus, everyone has hope.  All sins are terrible.  Many sins are particularly hurtful and shameful.  But there is forgiveness for all of them, even the worst of them.  No sin is so disgusting that Jesus refused to pay for it.  This is good news to share with people whose lives are so regrettable.  They are not beyond hope.  Jesus is mindful to save them and to deliver them from Satan’s kingdom of fear and death to God’s kingdom of life and peace.

     You have been brought into God’s kingdom, but your relationship to Jesus is much more endearing than King and subject.  When Jesus’ mother and brothers came to retrieve him from his schedule and to bring him home for rest, Jesus spoke to those who were gathered around him.  He assured them that they were more than students or acquaintances or even friends.  “Looking about at those who sat around him, he said, ‘Here are my mother and my brothers!  For whoever does the will of God, he is my brother and sister and mother’” (Mark 3:34-35). 

     Whoever hears the word of the Lord and believes it has become a child of God.  Whoever believes the word of God and strives to live according to it is a brother or sister of Jesus.  And if you are Jesus’ brothers and sisters, then you are heirs of glorious kingdom and children of the resurrection.  The world may think you are out of your mind to be a follower of Jesus.  The truth is that the Holy Spirit has given you a new heart and mind which knows the benefits of Jesus’ grace and the goodness of God’s word.  Jesus was mindful to destroy Satan’s kingdom, and we rejoice that he was mindful to rescue us from it.

In the name of the Father and of the Son + and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen.

Local Tourist -- Belle Isle

On Thursday, the Local Tourist and his Mrs. found themselves on the east side of Detroit.  We had attempted to visit the War Memorial on Lake St. Clair, but there was a funeral being conducted there.  I took one photo of the building (first photo), but we did not pass through to the memorial structure on the lake front.

We continued to drive down Jefferson Avenue until we got to Belle Isle.  We drove to the James Scott Fountain and took a few photos in that area.  It was a pretty windy day, so you can see the water being blown to one side.  A prettier day would produce prettier photos -- except the photo of the Mrs.  She always looks good.

Windsor, Ontario on the left; Detroit, Michigan on the right.  

If you expand the photo, you can see the Ambassador Bridge connecting the two.

Best photo of the day!

Update from Good Shepherd (June 6, 2024)

Greetings!

SUMMER SCHEDULE 

Divine Service is Sunday at 10:00 AM.
Sunday School resumes on Sunday, September 8.
Adult Bible Class resumes on Sunday, September 8.
Bible Matters will resume in September.

CALENDAR: For a calendar of events and meetings, click here.

INTRODUCTION VIDEO FOR GOOD SHEPHERD LUTHERAN CHURCH
          Here is a video to introduce people to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church of Novi. Share it as much as you can.

CHURCH COUNCIL HIGHLIGHTS (May)

>    A down payment of about $13,000 was paid to the Johnson Sign Co. to begin the work on installing the LED sign for church.  Currently, the delay is due to needing the City of Novi to issue a variance so that the sign can be placed a little closer to the road.  We do anticipate that the variance will be issued, but it will not be addressed by the City of Novi until July.   Offerings for the new sign can still be given.  You may designate your donations to “New Sign”.  To date over $1,300 has been donated for the $27,000 cost.

>    A one-day evangelism seminar called “Everyone Outreach” will be offered at Good Shepherd.  The presenter will be Pastor Norman Burger of Shepherd of the Hills in Lansing.  The seminar is to assist us in establishing an outreach culture that permeates through the whole congregation.  We hope to have a great turnout as we want this culture to affect all of us.  We expect the seminar to be held on Saturday, September 21.  It will involve a full morning session (8:00 AM – Noon), lunch, and then a one-hour session in the early afternoon.  In order to establish an outreach culture in our congregation, it is essential that as many from our congregation attend this seminar.  Please reserve the date and commit to being here for an impactful presentation..  

>    Dan Schneider has had contact with the City of Novi to see if they will follow up on their proposal to install a new, more handicapped friendly sidewalk.  It would go out the door to the south and end at about the 4^th parking space on the east side of the parking lot.  If the City of Novi has the funds to install it, they will likely try to get it done before the November election.  There has been no further update from the City of Novi for this project.

OPEN FORUM & VOTERS' MEETING
          We will be having an Open Forum on Sunday, June 9 after church. We will give updates on some of the projects we have in the works, as well as seeking to incorporate new members into areas of service. Questions and suggestions are always welcome. If there is a particular item of business that you think should be on the agenda, you may suggest it to Dan LeFevre or Pastor Schroeder prior to June 9.
          The Voters' Meeting will follow the Open Forum immediately afterward.

 GOOD SHEPHERD ON YOUTUBE

          Services are uploaded to YouTube each week. Feel free to share the videos. Here is the service from June 2, 2024: Good Shepherd Novi, Divine Service, June 2, 2024 (youtube.com)

SUMMER OFFICE HOURS
            During the summer months, it is more enjoyable to read outside than in the office, weather permitting. Call or text to confirm any meetings with the pastor (248-719-5218). 

 

DO YOU LIKE US?

          Look for Good Shepherd on Facebook. Then “LIKE” us for updates and other postings. Be sure to share posts with friends.

SHARE THIS POST!
          We desire as many as possible to rejoice in the Gospel which we proclaim and confess. Share the information from our weekly email blast, links to our web page, and even to the pastor's blog to let others know that we have a space in our congregation for them!

In Christ,
Pastor Schroeder

==============================

SUMMER SCHEDULE
DIVINE SERVICES are on Sundays at 10:00 AM.
Sunday School resumes on Sunday, September 8.
Adult Bible Class resumes on Sunday, September 8.
Bible Matters will resume in September.

GOOD SHEPHERD’S WEBSITE
www.GoodShepherdNovi.org

PASTOR SCHROEDER’S BLOG
www.LutheranSubject.blogspot.com