Update from Good Shepherd (October 31, 2024)

Greetings!

REGULAR SCHEDULE 

Divine Service is Sunday at 10:00 AM.
Sunday School is on Sundays at 9:00 AM.
Adult Bible Class is on Sundays at 9:00 AM.

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

EVERYONE OUTREACH – FOLLOW-UP
             Our one-day seminar, Everyone Outreach, was completed on Saturday, September 21. But to establish an outreach culture, we will need to keep our goals present and encourage one another to pursue them.  There will be follow-up meetings (TBA) where we can encourage efforts and discuss what has been accomplished so far.  The Church Council will be taking the lead as we will dedicate a good portion of our next meeting to how we will implement our plans. 

HURRICANE RELIEF
            Several areas of our country have been hammered hard by hurricanes in the past few weeks, specifically Hurricanes Helene (Tennessee and Carolinas) and Milton (Florida).  The destruction and devastation have been immense.  Offerings for hurricane relief and for many other kinds of relief can be made to the WELS Christian Aid and Relief at wels.net/CARgift.

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 (October)
          > A request was made for some kind of pictorial directory which will be helpful for having new and old members become more familiar with each other. A few young people have expressed interest in spearheading this effort. Stay tuned for details as they become available.
          > The preliminary budget for 2025 was presented to the Church Council for suggestions and revisions. This budget will be presented at our Open Forum on Sunday, November 17 after church. Further questions, suggestions, and revisions are welcome.

OPEN FORUM & VOTERS’ MEETING
          On Sunday, November 17 after church, we will have an open forum to present the proposed budget and highlight plans for the coming months and year. All members of Good Shepherd are welcome to attend, to ask questions, and to offer suggestions. Most importantly, the presentations at the open forum show how you can be a part of the activities we do as a congregation.
          The Voters’ Meeting will follow the open forum and formally adopt any motions based on feedback from the open forum.

GOOD SHEPHERD ON YOUTUBE
          Services are uploaded to YouTube each week. Feel free to share the videos. Here is the service from October 27, 2024: (243) Good Shepherd Novi, Divine Service, October 27, 2024 - YouTube

CALL FOR NAMES – SAINTS TRIUMPHANT
          Every year, we remember the names of loved ones who have died in the Christian faith, praising God for the mercy he has had upon them and thanking God for preserving them in that saving faith throughout their life. Normally, the names of these departed souls are recalled in a prayer on All Saints' Day, which is November 1. Since Good Shepherd does not have a specific All Saints' Day service, we transfer this prayer and these remembrances to the Sunday following All Saints' Day. This year, that date falls on November 3.
          Members of Good Shepherd who have been called to eternal rest this past year are automatically included. Members of Good Shepherd, you may also submit the names of your own loved ones who have died in the Christian faith between November 1, 2023 and November 3, 2024. When submitting these names, please include
                    1. the name of the deceased

                    2. your name

                    3. how he/she was related to you

                    4. the dates of his/her birth and death, if known

          All names submitted as of now will not be listed in the bulletin which was printed on Wednesday.  Names submitted up to Sunday morning will be listed in the prayer posted on the pastor's blog.

WELS NATIONAL TEEN BIBLE STUDY
            WELS offers a National Teen Bible Study as an online opportunity for teens across the country to digitally connect with each other around the Word. The next one is scheduled for Sunday, November 10, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. (Eastern Time Zone).
            The online Bible study is not intended to replace local ministry efforts but complement existing ministries like the WELS International Youth Rally and area WELS Youth Nights. The goals are:
                        · To encourage greater spiritual growth during critical teen years.
                        · To encourage greater relational connections with other WELS teens locally and across the country.
            Teens will be able to sign up using their phones to register for an upcoming one-hour Bible study that will be zoomed quarterly. Bible study topics will be relevant and led by various WELS pastors. Teens will be able to interact with one another through breakout rooms.
            This quarter’s Bible study will focus on the testing of Abraham’s faith in Genesis chapter 22. At a time in life when many questions, doubts, and fears can easily overwhelm you, it’s important to stay connected to God and to fellow believers! Join us for another national online teen Bible study to learn how you can better “pass the tests” and walk by faith! 

            You can register now at: https://wels.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZItcuCsqToiHdbgXc9vcZAIYpBdHm7iSjvP#/registration

REGULAR OFFICE HOURS
            The pastor will try to hold formal office hours Monday-Thursday, 9:00 AM – Noon. It should be noted that some meetings are scheduled for those times. It is best to 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

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

REGULAR SCHEDULE
DIVINE SERVICES are on Sundays at 10:00 AM.
Sunday School -- Sundays at 9:00 AM.
Adult Bible Class -- Sundays at 9:00 AM.
Bible Matters will resume in January 2025.

GOOD SHEPHERD’S WEBSITE
www.GoodShepherdNovi.org

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

YouTube -- Festival of the Reformation, transferred (October 27, 2024)

Here is the Divine Service from Sunday, October 27, 2024.  It is the Festival of the Reformation, properly observed on October 31.  It was transferred to the Sunday prior.

Minor Festival: All Saints’ Day

             Lutheran worship is liturgical.  While that often refers to an order of worship, it can also refer to the calendar of the Church Year.  The Church Year includes major festivals, such as Christmas, Epiphany, Easter, Pentecost, etc...  On Sunday, November 3, we will observe a minor festival, All Saints’ Day, which is being transferred from its actual observance on November 1.

            It is on this day that we recall all those in faith who have gone before us – most notably those who have died in the last year.  But rather than focusing on people, what they did, and how faithful they were, our focus remains on Christ, what he did, and how faithful he was to them.  No matter how much fondness we may have for one of the saints triumphant, they (and we) are only saints through Jesus Christ.

Sermon -- Festival of the Reformation, transferred (October 27, 2024)

DANIEL 3:16-28

WE HAVE A FAITH WORTH DYING FOR.

In the name + of Jesus.

     You have likely heard the phrase, “I will die on this hill.”  In a military context, it notes the strategic advantage of holding the high ground.  Troops would defend the hill to the death.  They would die on that hill rather than concede the advantage.  Today, it is used to express a commitment to one’s beliefs or behavior.  People will defend their convictions rather than concede them to pressure or convenience. 

     Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were such men.  They were among the first to be exiled from Jerusalem to Babylon along with the prophet Daniel.  They were of the noble class, and probably teenagers.  King Nebuchadnezzar was no idiot.  When he recognized their potential for serving him, he had them train for service in his kingdom.  They were taught the Babylonian language, Babylonian literature, Babylonian culture, and so on.  There was no sin in doing this, so these young man gave themselves diligently to their studies.  They were also to eat the king’s food.  But some of that food was unclean according to the law of Moses.  You might think this was a petty matter.  They were exiles in a pagan land.  Who cares about dietary rules?  But these young men refused to violate the covenant.  It was a hill they would die on because they would not sin against the Lord, not even in what seemed like little matters.

     Fast forward to our reading.  Nebuchadnezzar had built a large, golden statue and commanded his subjects to worship it.  Once the orchestra began playing the worship music, everyone was to bow low to the ground—both an act of worship to the idol and an act of allegiance to the king.  However, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused.  When everyone was prostrate to the ground, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego stood upright.  It was not hard to see that they refused to worship the king’s idol.  This was a hill they would die on, and it was reported to the king.

     Once again, King Nebuchadnezzar was no idiot.  He would not execute valuable employees on hearsay.  So, he confronted them.  “If you worship the idol, we’re all good.  But if you do not worship, you shall immediately be cast into a burning fiery furnace” (Daniel 3:15).  Then he scoffed, “And who is the god who will deliver you out of my hands” (Daniel 3:15)?

     Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego’s reply was another bold confession.  They made two statements.  “Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace” (Daniel 3:17).  In other words, our God can save.  But they continued, “If not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up” (Daniel 3:18).  In other words, even if God does not save us, we will be faithful to him—no matter what threats or punishments we face.  We will not yield in our faith.  We will not turn from his word.  We will die on this hill.

     God, in his grace, chose to preserve Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.  Nebuchadnezzar recognized this when he declared, “Did we not cast three men bound into the fire? … But I see four men unbound, walking in the midst of the fire, and they are not hurt; and the appearance of the fourth is like a son of the gods” (Daniel 3:24-25).  And he was right.  The Son of God stood with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the flaming furnace.  He had preserved them so that they did not even smell of smoke.  He does not always step in to miraculously save his people from a martyr’s death.  In fact, God rarely does that.  Many saints have glorified God by suffering death for their faithful confession.  We have a faith worth dying for.  God’s people recognize that there are some things that are worse than death.

     We have a faith worth dying for, and that is because we have a God who decided that we were worth dying for.  Jesus Christ is God in the flesh who came into to the world to die for sinners.  Jesus took into himself all our sins.  Now, the devil had given Jesus all kinds of reasons not to do this.  When he tempted Jesus in the wilderness, the prince of this world offered to give Jesus all the riches, authority, and kingdoms of the world.  Jesus would not even have to suffer to get these.  He needed only to bow before the devil, and he would have them.  But that is not how sinners would be saved.  There was a hill that Jesus had to die on in order to redeem us.  And he was convinced that we were worth dying for.

     Jesus went to a hill to die on it for us.  There he was roasted in God’s fiery wrath for sins he did not commit.  He endured hellish torment that he did not deserve.  He did this to pay for all your sins.  Since Jesus has taken up all your sins, there is no condemnation for you.  You have received a full pardon.  This is the faith we live and die in. 

     Therefore, we have a faith worth dying for.  The odds of you facing death in a fiery furnace are slim.  You will likely never have to suffer death for your confession.  But you will suffer for it.  We hold to God’s word in a world that mocks those who live according to it.  To the world, our faithfulness to God’s word is bewildering.  To the world, sinning against God’s word is no big deal.  St. Peter warned, “They are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you” (1 Peter 4:4). 

     God’s people hold to his word even when violating it seems like no big deal.  Examples abound, but we will consider just one.  St. Paul instructs us, “Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving” (Ephesians 5:4).  If you avoid vulgar or obscene speech, people will notice.  They will think you are strange.  They will mock you, “Oh, goody two-shoes.  You think you’re better than us!”  But remember, you have been set apart from all wickedness.  We dare not dabble in some of it, reasoning that some sins are harmless.  The world is evil.  It dwells under God’s wrath, and judgment is coming because of it.  But you have been set apart from it.  You not only rejoice in God’s promises, but you also believe that all of God’s word is good and right and true.  You have been set apart to be God’s people and to live according to God’s word.  Your faith is not mere words; faith governs your whole life.  It is a life lived for God’s honor.  It is a faith worth dying for.

      This is nothing new.  God’s people throughout all of history have suffered for the sake of Jesus Christ.  Today, we celebrate the Lutheran Reformation.  At the time of Martin Luther, Jesus was portrayed as an angry judge that you had to satisfy with holy living.  The confession, “He will come again to judge the living and the dead” filled people with terror rather than hope.  Christians were told to amend their lives, making up for all of their sins.  Who can do that?  What is enough?  And what happens to a Christian who lived his whole life trusting God’s word but does not have enough time to amend for all his sins?  This is where the teaching of purgatory came in.  It isn’t in the Bible, but it was created to tell people they would have to be purged of the wickedness that was still in them.  Once they had been purged of all their evil, then they would be holy and able to enter heaven.  How long would that suffering take?  Thousands and thousands of years.  What comfort did these Christians have?

     This is where the sale of indulgences came in.  For a price, people could reduce the time spent in purgatory by the authority of the Pope.  And it was not only for yourself.  Would you really let grandma suffer in purgatory when you could purchase her release?  It was a wicked practice, but the money ended up building St. Peter’s Basilica.  Martin Luther challenged this practice.  Having discovered from Scripture that Jesus is not an angry judge but a gracious Savior, Luther preached forgiveness of sins by faith in Jesus’ death and resurrection.  Indulgences were a scam, and Luther said so.  Once the money stopped flowing to Rome, Luther faced threats.  First, he was ordered to stop preaching and writing.  Later, he was marked as a wanted man—dead or alive.  Luther’s life would have been much easier if he had just shut up.  But God’s people would have been robbed of comfort, hope, and salvation if he had not.  He was willing to die on that hill because Jesus had willingly died for him and for the sins of the whole world.  Whenever Luther saw the good news of Jesus being perverted by false teachings, he lashed out in rather strong language.  He would not let the light of the Gospel be clouded, and he would not let God’s people be plagued by doubts and fears.  Luther was willing to die for this confession.  God graciously spared him of that, but Luther recognized that we have a faith worth dying for. 

     There is a reason Martin Luther wrote, “And take they our life, goods, fame, child, and wife, let these all be gone, they yet have nothing won; the kingdom ours remaineth” (TLH © 1941, Hymn 262, stanza 4).  For Luther, losing these things was a real possibility.  That does not mean God’s gifts are not precious.  But it does mean they don’t save.  Only Jesus Christ does.  It would be hard to lose one’s possessions or reputation.  It would be gut-wrenching to lose one’s wife and children.  But it would be eternally tragic to lose one’s faith.  There are things worse than dying.  That is why we confess that we have a faith worth suffering and dying for.

     Whether 500 BC in Babylon, 1500 AD in Saxony, Germany, or the 2020’s in the United States of America, God’s word is under attack.  God’s promises are clouded by words which sound nice and allow for alternative beliefs.  Back in September, the Pope decreed that all religions are a path to God (https://www.christianpost.com/news/pope-francis-claims-all-religions-are-a-path-to-god.html).  That was received well by many people, but it is absolutely wrong.  Jesus declared, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). There is no other path to God.  To suggest there are other paths to God is to promote a lie which grounds people in a faith that leads to death.

     Faith in Jesus alone brings life everlasting.  Our Savior lived and died for us.  Our risen Savior lives and reigns for us.  Therefore, we live and die holding firmly to his words and promises.  Jesus promises, “Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die” (John 11:25-26).  If you must suffer for your faith, suffer as one who is godly and confident of God’s goodness.  If you must die for your faith, go boldly into death knowing that you will come out unscathed, just as Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were delivered from death.  We have a faith worth dying for because we have a Savior who lives.  And because he lives, we shall live with him in glory.

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

Update from Good Shepherd (October 24, 2024)

Greetings!

REGULAR SCHEDULE 

Divine Service is Sunday at 10:00 AM.
Sunday School is on Sundays at 9:00 AM.
Adult Bible Class is on Sundays at 9:00 AM.

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

EVERYONE OUTREACH – FOLLOW-UP
             Our one-day seminar, Everyone Outreach, was completed on Saturday, September 21. But to establish an outreach culture, we will need to keep our goals present and encourage one another to pursue them.  There will be follow-up meetings (TBA) where we can encourage efforts and discuss what has been accomplished so far.  The Church Council will be taking the lead as we will dedicate a good portion of our next meeting to how we will implement our plans. 

HURRICANE RELIEF
            Several areas of our country have been hammered hard by hurricanes in the past few weeks, specifically Hurricanes Helene (Tennessee and Carolinas) and Milton (Florida).  The destruction and devastation have been immense.  In order to provide relief, we will take a special offering this Sunday to alleviate the pain of those who are experiencing days of sorrow and distress.  Offerings can be made to the WELS Christian Aid and Relief at wels.net/CARgift.

COLLECTION FOR MARRIED STUDENTS AT WISCONSIN LUTHERAN SEMINARY -- ENDS THIS SUNDAY!!!
          We are taking a collection for the married students of Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary. It is a way to demonstrate our support for the men who are studying to be pastors in our synod. Our offerings alleviate some of the expenses these men incur, allowing them to afford rent, insurance, books, and other expenses that families face.
          We will take our offering through Sunday, October 27. Suggested items are posted on the bulletin board in the fellowship hall. Monetary gifts are also welcomed. Checks may be made out to Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary. Your generosity is appreciated.

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 (October)
          > A request was made for some kind of pictorial directory which will be helpful for having new and old members become more familiar with each other. A few young people have expressed interest in spearheading this effort. Stay tuned for details as they become available.
          > The preliminary budget for 2025 was presented to the Church Council for suggestions and revisions. This budget will be presented at our Open Forum on Sunday, November 17 after church. Further questions, suggestions, and revisions are welcome.

OPEN FORUM & VOTERS’ MEETING
          On Sunday, November 17 after church, we will have an open forum to present the proposed budget and highlight plans for the coming months and year. All members of Good Shepherd are welcome to attend, to ask questions, and to offer suggestions. Most importantly, the presentations at the open forum show how you can be a part of the activities we do as a congregation.
          The Voters’ Meeting will follow the open forum and formally adopt any motions based on feedback from the open forum.

GOOD SHEPHERD ON YOUTUBE
          Services are uploaded to YouTube each week. Feel free to share the videos. Here is the service from October 20, 2024: (222) Good Shepherd Novi, Divine Service, October 20, 2024 - YouTube

CALL FOR NAMES – SAINTS TRIUMPHANT
          Every year, we remember the names of loved ones who have died in the Christian faith, praising God for the mercy he has had upon them and thanking God for preserving them in that saving faith throughout their life. Normally, the names of these departed souls are recalled in a prayer on All Saints' Day, which is November 1. Since Good Shepherd does not have a specific All Saints' Day service, we transfer this prayer and these remembrances to the Sunday following All Saints' Day. This year, that date falls on November 3.
          Members of Good Shepherd who have been called to eternal rest this past year are automatically included. Members of Good Shepherd, you may also submit the names of your own loved ones who have died in the Christian faith between November 1, 2023 and November 3, 2024. When submitting these names, please include
                    1. the name of the deceased

                    2. your name

                    3. how he/she was related to you

                    4. the dates of his/her birth and death, if known

          All names submitted before Wednesday, October 30 will be listed in the bulletin. Names may still be submitted as late as Sunday morning, but will not be printed in the bulletin.

REGULAR OFFICE HOURS
            The pastor will try to hold formal office hours Monday-Thursday, 9:00 AM – Noon. It should be noted that some meetings are scheduled for those times. It is best to 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

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

REGULAR SCHEDULE
DIVINE SERVICES are on Sundays at 10:00 AM.
Sunday School -- Sundays at 9:00 AM.
Adult Bible Class -- Sundays at 9:00 AM.
Bible Matters will resume in January 2025.

GOOD SHEPHERD’S WEBSITE
www.GoodShepherdNovi.org

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

YouTube -- 22nd Sunday after Pentecost (October 20, 2024)

Here is the Divine Service from Sunday, October 20.  The guest preacher was Rev. Mark Pornisky, retired.  Pastor Porinsky had served about forty years at Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church in Dexter, Michigan prior to his retirement.

Alll Saints' Day -- Call for Names

CALL FOR NAMES – SAINTS TRIUMPHANT

               Every year, we remember the names of loved ones who have died in the Christian faith, praising God for the mercy he has had upon them and thanking God for preserving them in that saving faith throughout their life.  Normally, the names of these departed souls are recalled in a prayer on All Saints' Day, which is November 1.  Since Good Shepherd does not have a specific All Saints' Day service, we transfer this prayer and these remembrances to the Sunday following All Saints' Day.  This year, that date falls on November 3.

               Members of Good Shepherd who have been called to eternal rest this past year are automatically included.  Members of Good Shepherd, you may also submit the names of your own loved ones who have died in the Christian faith between November 1, 2023 and November 3, 2024.  When submitting these names, please included

                         1. the name of the deceased
                         2. your name
                         3. how he/she was related to you
                         4. the dates of his/her birth and death, if known

               All names submitted before Wednesday, October 30 will be listed in the bulletin.  Names may still be submitted as late as Sunday morning, but will not be printed in the bulletin.

               The prayer which will be spoken is below.

PRAYER FOR ALL SAINTS’ DAY

M:          Almighty God, today we recall with thanksgiving those saints who were taken from us in the Church Militant and carried by the angels to you and the Church Triumphant.  Especially, we give you praise for our departed family and friends who have gone before us in faith and all those who are in our hearts and minds this day:

               (The names of those who are to be remembered are read).

               To these, you have granted eternal rest this past year.  We thank you for giving them new life in Christ while on this earth and for sustaining them in true and saving faith throughout their life.  We praise you for finally giving them the fulfillment of your promises of salvation and eternal life.  Strengthen and sustain us in this saving faith so that we may also join with the angels and archangels and all the company of heaven in joyful praise, peace, and rest forever; through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

Cong:    Amen.

Update from Good Shepherd (October 17, 2024)

Greetings!

REGULAR SCHEDULE 

Divine Service is Sunday at 10:00 AM.
Sunday School is on Sundays at 9:00 AM.
Adult Bible Class is on Sundays at 9:00 AM.

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

EVERYONE OUTREACH – FOLLOW-UP
             Our one-day seminar, Everyone Outreach, was completed on Saturday, September 21. But to establish an outreach culture, we will need to keep our goals present and encourage one another to pursue them.  There will be follow-up meetings (TBA) where we can encourage efforts and discuss what has been accomplished so far.  The Church Council will be taking the lead as we will dedicate a good portion of our next meeting to how we will implement our plans. 

HURRICANE RELIEF
            Several areas of our country have been hammered hard by hurricanes in the past few weeks, specifically Hurricanes Helene (Tennessee and Carolinas) and Milton (Florida).  The destruction and devastation have been immense.  In order to provide relief, we will take a special offering this Sunday to alleviate the pain of those who are experiencing days of sorrow and distress.  Offerings can be made to the WELS Christian Aid and Relief at wels.net/CARgift.

COLLECTION FOR MARRIED STUDENTS AT WISCONSIN LUTHERAN SEMINARY
          For the next couple of weeks, we will be taking a collection for the married students of Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary. It is a way to demonstrate our support for the men who are studying to be pastors in our synod. Our offerings alleviate some of the expenses these men incur, allowing them to afford rent, insurance, books, and other expenses that families face.
          We will take our offering through Sunday, October 27. Suggested items are posted on the bulletin board in the fellowship hall. Monetary gifts are also welcomed. Checks may be made out to Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary. Your generosity is appreciated.

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 (October)
          > A request was made for some kind of pictorial directory which will be helpful for having new and old members become more familiar with each other. A few young people have expressed interest in spearheading this effort. Stay tuned for details as they become available.
          > The preliminary budget for 2025 was presented to the Church Council for suggestions and revisions. This budget will be presented at our Open Forum on Sunday, November 17 after church. Further questions, suggestions, and revisions are welcome.

OPEN FORUM & VOTERS’ MEETING
          On Sunday, November 17 after church, we will have an open forum to present the proposed budget and highlight plans for the coming months and year. All members of Good Shepherd are welcome to attend, to ask questions, and to offer suggestions. Most importantly, the presentations at the open forum show how you can be a part of the activities we do as a congregation.
          The Voters’ Meeting will follow the open forum and formally adopt any motions based on feedback from the open forum.

GOOD SHEPHERD ON YOUTUBE
          Services are uploaded to YouTube each week. Feel free to share the videos. Here is the service from October 13, 2024: (199) Good Shepherd Novi, Divine Service, October 13, 2024 - YouTube

CALL FOR NAMES – SAINTS TRIUMPHANT
          Every year, we remember the names of loved ones who have died in the Christian faith, praising God for the mercy he has had upon them and thanking God for preserving them in that saving faith throughout their life. Normally, the names of these departed souls are recalled in a prayer on All Saints' Day, which is November 1. Since Good Shepherd does not have a specific All Saints' Day service, we transfer this prayer and these remembrances to the Sunday following All Saints' Day. This year, that date falls on November 3.
          Members of Good Shepherd who have been called to eternal rest this past year are automatically included. Members of Good Shepherd, you may also submit the names of your own loved ones who have died in the Christian faith between November 1, 2023 and November 3, 2024. When submitting these names, please include
                    1. the name of the deceased

                    2. your name

                    3. how he/she was related to you

                    4. the dates of his/her birth and death, if known

          All names submitted before Wednesday, October 30 will be listed in the bulletin. Names may still be submitted as late as Sunday morning, but will not be printed in the bulletin.

REGULAR OFFICE HOURS
            The pastor will try to hold formal office hours Monday-Thursday, 9:00 AM – Noon. It should be noted that some meetings are scheduled for those times. It is best to 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

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

REGULAR SCHEDULE
DIVINE SERVICES are on Sundays at 10:00 AM.
Sunday School -- Sundays at 9:00 AM.
Adult Bible Class -- Sundays at 9:00 AM.
Bible Matters will resume in January 2025.

GOOD SHEPHERD’S WEBSITE
www.GoodShepherdNovi.org

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

YouTube -- HymnFest 2024 (October 13, 2024)

Here is the Divine Service from Sunday, October 13, 2024.  If you are interested in the hymns and have access to Christian Worship: A Lutheran Hymnal (c) 2021, you can check out this link for the hymns we sung for our HymnFest.  

Adult Bible Class -- Exodus

On Sunday, October 27, we will begin a new series for Adult Bible Class.  

We will be considering the book of Exodus.  We will cover about half of the book--from slavery in Egypt to the call of Moses to the Passover and to the freedom after the crossing of the Red Sea.  The schedule is here:

Oct 27        Israel falls under oppression (Exodus 1)

Nov 3         Moses is born, raised, and escapes (Exodus 2)

Nov 10       God calls Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3:1 – 4:17)

Nov 17       Moses returns to Egypt (Exodus 4:18-31)

Nov 24       Bricks without straw (Exodus 5) 

Dec 1         God promises deliverance (Exodus 6) 

Dec 8         Moses confronts Pharaoh with miracles; Plague #1 (Exodus 7)

Dec 15       The Plagues #2 - #9 (Exodus 8 – 10) 

Jan 5          Plague #10 – The Passover (Exodus 11:1 – 12:32)

Jan 12        Consecration of the first born; Unleavened bread (Ex 12:32 – 13:22)

Jan 19        Israel crosses the Red Sea (Exodus 14:1 – 15:21) 

Adult Bible Class meets on Sundays at 9:00 AM.  All are welcome to grow in God’s word.

Sermon -- HymnFest: In Days of Sorrow and Distress (October 13, 2024)

PSALM 96

SING TO THE LORD—IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES.

In the name + of Jesus.

      Psalm 96 might seem out of place for a service themed, “In Days of Sorrow and Distress.”  It seems to be a Psalm for good days which give us reasons to rejoice.  It is the Psalm designated for Christmas Eve.  But the praise of God and the songs of the Church are not reserved for good days.  As we confess in the communion liturgy, “It is truly good and right that we should at all times and in all places give you thanks, O Lord, holy Father, almighty and everlasting God, through Jesus Christ our Lord.”  And so, even in days of sorrow and distress, the Church sings.

     When the Church sings her songs, they should say what is true for all Christians.  The best hymns confess like the Creed confesses.  We don’t ask people, one by one, to say, “What does Jesus mean to me?”  Together, we confess the truth, what God has revealed.  We confess, “I believe in God the Father … Maker of heaven and earth.”  Why?  Because God has told us.  We confess, “I believe in Jesus Christ … who suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried.  On the third day, he rose again from the dead.”  Why?  Because God has told us.  We do not confess personal creeds; the Church confesses what God has told us.  We take our stand, and we profess the common belief of all Christians.  Our hymns should do the same.  A hymn which speaks only for a handful of people, or worse is the sentiment of one person, is a woefully deficient hymn. 

     Consider, for example, a popular evangelical hymn called “In the Garden.”  It is written as if Mary Magdalene wrote it.  She swoons, “I come to the garden alone, while the dew is still on the roses, and the voice I hear falling on my ear the Son of God discloses.  And He walks with me, and He talks with me, and He tells me I am His own; and the joy we share as we tarry there, none other has ever known.”  Mary Magdalene could sing this, but you and I cannot.  Nowhere in Scripture does Jesus tell us to find him in a garden.  Nowhere does Jesus say he will come to you and personally speak a message unique to you.  He comes to all only in the words of Scripture.  This hymn makes the Christian faith a personal experience, not a common confession.  This hymn is not only deficient, it promotes a false belief.

     Psalm 96 teaches the Church of all time, “Sing to the Lord, bless his name; tell of his salvation from day to day.  Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples!  For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; he is to be feared above all gods.  For all the gods of the peoples are worthless idols, but the Lord made the heavens” (Psalm 96:2-5).  People will invent all kinds of gods which they trust to provide comfort for their sorrows and peace in the midst of distress.  They turn to drugs and alcohol, sports, fantasy, their own pride or niceness, and so on.  The gods which people turn to do not help or comfort.  And they certainly do not save.

     But you have a God who entered this world of sorrow and pain who provides relief.  Jesus Christ knows what it is to live in days of sorrow and distress.  Jesus knows the bitterness of death, the oppression of a foreign power, the persecution of schemers, the betrayal of friends, the temptations of the devil, and the immorality of the world.  He, too, is grieved and vexed by all these things.  Jesus did not come just to experience the common lot of godly people, he came to deliver you from it.

     A common challenge that people make to God is this: With the world being such an evil place, why doesn’t God do something about it?  But he has!  The world has been corrupted.  It is like a sewer which constantly flows with filth.  If you were stuck in a sewer, you would not beg for someone to clean it up so that you could live there comfortably.  You would be begging for someone to pull you out of it.  You would long to be freed from the continual flow of filth.  That is what Jesus has does.

     Sing to the Lord—in all circumstances.  For, Jesus is your Savior from all the filth of sin.  First, he cleanses you of the filth that is in you.  The blood which Jesus shed on the cross is the atoning sacrifice for you.  His innocence was given in exchange for your guilt.  His death restores you to life.  His curse was borne to bring you God’s blessing.  The blood of Jesus purifies you from all sin.  So, you are clean.

     Still, you experience days of sorrow and distress because of the filth and flaws of a corrupted world.  But even in days of sorrow and distress—especially in days of sorrow and distress—we sing to the Lord.  For, he has rescued us from the sin that damns, and he preserves us for a life of everlasting peace.  Jesus’ resurrection assures us of our own resurrection.  Jesus’ ascension into heaven paves the way for our own ascension into heavenly glory.  And Jesus will come again to establish a new creation—a new heaven and earth, the home of righteousness free from all the corruption, chaos, and catastrophe that sin produces.  That is why Psalm 96 summons: “Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice; let the sea roar, and all that fills it; let the field exult, and everything in it!  Then shall all the trees of the forest sing for joy before the Lord, for he comes, for he comes to judge the earth” (Psalm 96:11-13).  Jesus will release creation from corruption and restore it to perfection.  And heaven and nature sing!

     Sing to the Lord—in all circumstances.  Days of sorrow and distress will come.  The depths of sorrow vary.  The intensity of distress fluctuates.  What does it prove?  Nothing in this world is reliable.  Friends may betray you.  The family may die or dissolve.  Your body may break down.  The devil will taunt you.  The world will pressure you to abandon the faith.  False teachers will seduce you.  And death will come.  I say this not to strike fear into you, but to present the realities of living as God’s people in a godless world.  Let’s acknowledge it for what it is.

     But then let’s flee to Jesus for hope and comfort.  Jesus made two statements about the life of God’s people.  One is a warning; the other is a promise.  Jesus declared, “In the world you will have tribulation.  But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).  Despite days of sorrow and distress, we have a joy that cannot be soured.  Jesus Christ lives and reigns.  Jesus’ promises and mercy and kingdom endure.  Therefore, the Church sings to the Lord—in all circumstances.

     “Sing to the Lord, bless his name; tell of his salvation from day to day.  Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples” (Psalm 96:2-3)!  The glory of God is not diminished when we endure days of sorrow and distress.  God even uses days of sorrow and distress as a cross upon which we put to death our attachment to this world and then flee to Jesus for comfort and hope.  If your goal is to make this world a place of comfort and ease, days of sorrow and distress will result in despair.  They may even make you suicidal.  But if your goal is to enter the heavenly kingdom, that goal cannot be thwarted by days of sorrow and distress, death or the devil.  Jesus’ marvelous works remain a firm foundation when our world crumbles.  Nothing in this life is sure, but God’s salvation is sure.  And so we proclaim his salvation day after day. 

     Sing to the Lord—in all circumstances.  If you look through the Psalms, they praise God for his marvelous works of salvation in the past and confess a confidence of God’s salvation for the future.  Rather than gush over how we feel about God, the Psalms declare what God has done and uphold what God has promised.  We want our hymns to follow that pattern.  After all, I get no comfort when I tell God what I think of him.  I receive endless comfort when I repeat the promises that God has made to me.  Even in days of sorrow and distress, I can trust God’s promises and be assured of God’s salvation.

     Sing to the Lord—in all circumstances.  And when you sing, sing with the boldness and confidence of people whose victory is sure.  For it is!  So, sing your hymns like fight songs.  Sing in defiance of the devil, the world, and your sinful flesh.  Listen to the confidence expressed in the hymn, “Jesus, Priceless Treasure”: “Satan, I defy thee; death, I now decry thee; fear, I bid thee cease.  World, thou shalt not harm me nor thy threats alarm me while I sing of peace.  God’s great power guards every hour; earth and all its depths adore him, silent bow before him” (v3).  Or consider the bold defiance of “God’s Own Child, I Gladly Say It": “Sin, disturb my soul no longer: I am baptized into Christ” (v 2).  “Satan, hear this proclamation: I am baptized into Christ” (v 3).  “Death, you cannot end my gladness: I am baptized into Christ” (v 4).  We sing with boldness and confidence because Jesus’ promises remain firm.  Because of Jesus, sin cannot condemn us.  Death cannot keep us.  The devil cannot have us.  So, our songs proclaim his salvation day after day, even in days of sorrow and distress.  Especially in days of sorrow and distress.

     “Oh sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth!  Sing to the Lord, bless his name; tell of his salvation from day to day.  Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples” (Psalm 96:1-3)!  And so, God’s people sing.

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

Update from Good Shepherd (October 10, 2024)

Greetings!

REGULAR SCHEDULE 

Divine Service is Sunday at 10:00 AM.
Sunday School is on Sundays at 9:00 AM.
Adult Bible Class is on Sundays at 9:00 AM.

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

EVERYONE OUTREACH – FOLLOW-UP
             Our one-day seminar, Everyone Outreach, was completed on Saturday, September 21. But to establish an outreach culture, we will need to keep our goals present and encourage one another to pursue them.  There will be follow-up meetings (TBA) where we can encourage efforts and discuss what has been accomplished so far.  The Church Council will be taking the lead as we will dedicate a good portion of our next meeting to how we will implement our plans. 

HURRICANE RELIEF
            Several areas of our country have been hammered hard by hurricanes in the past few weeks, specifically Hurricanes Helene (Tennessee and Carolinas) and Milton (Florida).  The destruction and devastation have been immense.  In order to provide relief, we will take a special offering this Sunday to alleviate the pain of those who are experiencing days of sorrow and distress.  You can give your offering with the regular collection (if so, please designate it "hurricane relief") or in a collection plate at the ushers' station specifically for hurricane relief.  

            Additional offerings can be made to the WELS Christian Aid and Relief at wels.net/CARgift.

HYMNFEST

          On Sunday, October 13, we will have a HymnFest in which we will feature hymns under the theme, "In Days of Sorrow and Distress."  These hymns provide great comfort to us in dark days.  Most of them were written by people who either had been or were experiencing the hardships common to this life, some hardships much more crushing than others.  For a preview of the hymns, 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 (September)

>    We are exploring an improvement to the tinting on the window above the altar.  Early research has not produced a workable solution.  The good news is that the blinding sun will cease to be a problem as we head further into Fall.  But we hope to have a solution before the blinding sun hits again next summer.

>    A request was made for some kind of pictorial directory which will be helpful for having new and old members become more familiar with each other.  Our first priority is having someone who will be willing to spearhead the effort.  We did not place a time table on its completion.

>    We reviewed our commitments for mission offerings and for Hope Christian Academy.  We will fulfill Good Shepherd’s commitment by the end of September and will determine how much additional offering we will submit as we reach the end of the year.  We will also reflect increased support when we present the proposed budget for 2025 at our Open Forum in mid-November (date TBD). 

GOOD SHEPHERD ON YOUTUBE
          Services are uploaded to YouTube each week. Feel free to share the videos. Here is the service from September 15, 2024: Good Shepherd Novi, Divine Service, September 15, 2024 (youtube.com)

MISSION FESTIVAL
          Our Saviour Lutheran Church and Hope Christian Academy invite all of our southeast Michigan WELS congregations to a Mission Rally on Sunday, October 13 at Hope Christian Academy (33740 Cowan Road in Westland, Michigan).
          The rally will begin at 2:00 pm and conclude at 4:30 pm. The theme of the rally is, "Me? A witness for Jesus? Yes!" The focus will be on "You don't need a diploma from the seminary or from MLC to participate in home and world Gospel outreach." Participants will get "bite-size pieces" of information about various WELS-affiliated ministries, including:
                    Friends Network (the merger of Friends of Vietnam and Friends of China)
                    Lutheran Women's Missionary Society
                    Wisconsin Lutheran College
                    Christian Life Resources/WELS Lutherans for Life/New Beginnings
                    Project Share
          We hope to make this Mission Rally an annual event. Next year's focus (God willing) will be on our synod's 175th anniversary.

REGULAR OFFICE HOURS
            The pastor will try to hold formal office hours Monday-Thursday, 9:00 AM – Noon. It should be noted that some meetings are scheduled for those times. It is best to 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

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

REGULAR SCHEDULE
DIVINE SERVICES are on Sundays at 10:00 AM.
Sunday School -- Sundays at 9:00 AM.
Adult Bible Class -- Sundays at 9:00 AM.
Bible Matters will resume in January 2025.

GOOD SHEPHERD’S WEBSITE
www.GoodShepherdNovi.org

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

Book Review: From Egypt to Sinai

I recently completed reading through the book, From Sinai to Egypt: A Devotional Commentary on Exodus by Rev. Paul S. Meitner ($31.99).

Rev. Meitner covers the entire book of Exodus, dividing up various sections of Exodus into 25 chapters (302 pages).  Each chapter averages 12 pages, although some of the meatier portions of Exodus get treated with longer chapters which is understandable.

While it is subtitled "a devotional commentary," the emphasis is on the word "devotional."  If someone is looking for a breakdown of Hebrew words or verse-by-verse commentary, you will need to look elsewhere.  This volume assumes that you have read or are familiar with the designated chapters of Exodus and offers up insights from there.  Most often, those insights seek to connect the portions of Exodus to their New Testament fulfillment in Jesus Christ.  This is the strongest argument for the purchase of this book.  It was a pleasure to see the connections made by Rev. Meitner, and he acknowledged that even more connections could have been made.

In each chapter, Rev. Meitner shows both sin and grace.  He also connects these to us, showing that we are no better than the stiff-necked Israelites who returned to their sins again and again.  But our Lord and Savior is also the same--forgiving sins because he paid for them with his atoning sacrifice and continuing to bestow grace upon his people.  The Lord who called us to be his also works and sustains us as his own.  While readers will grow in their understanding of the book of Exodus, the devotional aspect of this book is its best attribute.

NOTE: The opinions expressed in this post are those of the author in exchange for a free copy of this book provided by Northwestern Publishing House.

Hymn Notes for HymnFest (October 13, 2024)

There will be many hymns we will enjoy for our HymnFest, but a few are newer and may not be familiar to everyone.  In order to be a little better prepared for some of these newer hymns, you can preview two of them below.

His Robes for Mine (Hymn 568) was written by Christ Anderson and music is by Greg Habegger.  This hymn highlights God's Great Exchange--that Jesus takes our sin and gives us his righteousness.

I Run to Christ (Hymn 833) was written by Christ Anderson and music is by Greg Habegger.  This hymn encourages us--in the face of fear, tears, strife, or temptation--to run to Christ for refuge and comfort.

Afflicted Saint, to Christ Draw Near (867) was written by John Fawcett (1740 - 1817) and the music was written by Constance Dever.  This hymn reminds us that, no matter what affliction we endure, we find refuge and peace in Christ alone.  No affliction can destroy this peace.

Update from Good Shepherd (October 3, 2024)

Greetings!

REGULAR SCHEDULE 

Divine Service is Sunday at 10:00 AM.
Sunday School is on Sundays at 9:00 AM.
Adult Bible Class is on Sundays at 9:00 AM.

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

EVERYONE OUTREACH – FOLLOW-UP
             Our one-day seminar, Everyone Outreach, was completed on Saturday, September 21. But to establish an outreach culture, we will need to keep our goals present and encourage one another to pursue them.  There will be follow-up meetings (TBA) where we can encourage efforts and discuss what has been accomplished so far.  The Church Council will be taking the lead as we will dedicate a good portion of our next meeting to how we will implement our plans. 

LADIES OF GOOD SHEPHERD
            The Ladies of Good Shepherd will meet after church on October 6 to discuss plans for the remainder of 2024 and into 2025. The following activities will be discussed and planned. Collegiate care kits: End of October; Come to the Table Friendsgiving: November 10th at 4PM; Veterans Stocking for Christmas: assembled in November, Jeannete will provide details; Christmas bake sale/cookie exchange (date TBD); LOGS Funding for new/update Christmas decorations, Advent dinners (two dinners in December, dates TBD); Ladies Tea (Spring 2025); and a potential brunch or dinner get-together. All ladies from Good Shepherd are welcome to attend the meeting and any future gatherings. Friends are always welcome, too!

EUCHRE NIGHT AND GAME NIGHT
             On Sunday, October 6, we will open the doors at 6:30 PM for an evening of games. Our main feature will be euchre, but other games will be available. You are welcome to bring snacks and beverages to share. And by all means, invite friends to join us!

HYMNFEST

          On Sunday, October 13, we will have a HymnFest in which we will feature hymns under the theme, "In Days of Sorrow and Distress."  These hymns provide great comfort to us in dark days.  Most of them were written by people who either had been or were experiencing the hardships common to this life, some hardships much more crushing than others.  For a preview of the hymns, 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 (September)

>    The LED sign is now installed and working.  There is still some work to be done on it to complete the project.  A training session was presented to the pastor, the secretary, and our properties committee chairman, allowing us to control the sign’s content.

>    We are exploring an improvement to the tinting on the window above the altar.  Early research has not produced a workable solution.  The good news is that the blinding sun will cease to be a problem as we head further into Fall.  But we hope to have a solution before the blinding sun hits again next summer.

>    A request was made for some kind of pictorial directory which will be helpful for having new and old members become more familiar with each other.  Our first priority is having someone who will be willing to spearhead the effort.  We did not place a time table on its completion.

>    We reviewed our commitments for mission offerings and for Hope Christian Academy.  We will fulfill Good Shepherd’s commitment by the end of September and will determine how much additional offering we will submit as we reach the end of the year.  We will also reflect increased support when we present the proposed budget for 2025 at our Open Forum in mid-November (date TBD). 

GOOD SHEPHERD ON YOUTUBE
          Services are uploaded to YouTube each week. Feel free to share the videos. Here is the service from September 15, 2024: Good Shepherd Novi, Divine Service, September 15, 2024 (youtube.com)

REGULAR OFFICE HOURS
            The pastor will try to hold formal office hours Monday-Thursday, 9:00 AM – Noon. It should be noted that some meetings are scheduled for those times. It is best to 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

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

REGULAR SCHEDULE
DIVINE SERVICES are on Sundays at 10:00 AM.
Sunday School -- Sundays at 9:00 AM.
Adult Bible Class -- Sundays at 9:00 AM.
Bible Matters will resume in January 2025.

GOOD SHEPHERD’S WEBSITE
www.GoodShepherdNovi.org

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