Education at Emmanuel
LENTEN DEVOTION FROM OUR PASTORS:
As we reflect on what it means to give up our lives, we turn to two powerful scriptures. In Ezekiel 37, we witness God’s ability to breathe life into dry bones, restoring what seemed lost forever. In John 11, we see Jesus calling Lazarus out of the grave, proving that death does not have the final word.
To give up our lives does not mean to lose ourselves completely, but rather to surrender control and trust in God’s power to restore, renew, and resurrect. It means letting go of fear, pride, and self-reliance, and stepping into a deeper trust that God is working even in places that seem lifeless.
This week, may we open our hearts to the life-giving Spirit of God, trusting that through Christ, death is never the end, but the beginning of something new.
We hope this time of reflection brings renewal and inspiration to your Lenten journey. We look forward to gathering together with you this Sunday.
This week’s readings:
Scripture Reading: Ezekiel 37:1-14
Gospel: John 11:1-14
SUNDAY FORUM: "Praying with an Artist"
Join us this Sunday at 10:15 AM. In this video Pastor Rick discusses how artwork can be used as meditations for individual or group reflection in prayer. The artwork offer insights into doctrine, scripture, or stories from modern life, inviting us to see Christ in new and thought-provoking ways. Pastor Rick shares six pieces of art that hold personal meaning for him—perhaps you have your own artwork that you can reflect on and discuss in a prayerful way.
Join us Sunday for a discussion of art and prayer.
2025 LENT AT EMMANUEL - “GIVING UP” : Lent is a season of reflection, repentance, and renewal. It is a time when we journey with Christ to the cross, letting go of the things that hinder our faith and opening ourselves to God's grace. This Lent, we invite you to embrace the theme "Giving Up". God would like to help and guide us to give up control, expectations, superiority, enemies, and our lives. Join us on this journey - see you in worship!
As we journey together in faith, this week's theme, "Giving Up Our Lives," invites us to consider what it means to surrender ourselves fully to God, trusting in His promise of resurrection and new life. One Church, Multiple Communities - United in Letting Go!
BEYOND SUNDAY-Living & Learning our Faith: Pastor Rick and Deacon Jim have joined forces to bring a new learning experience to Sundays at 11:40 AM in the media center following the Blended Worship Service. Come join them this Sunday as they begin to explore Luthers’s Small Catechism - for Adults only.
This Sunday we will discuss communion.
ZOOM HAPPY HOUR: Never joined before? Don’t worry! Each meeting is a standalone get together, so you can join any Monday to discuss the sermons from Sunday, wine and The Chosen. All are welcomed as we rejoice in each other’s fellowship.
Join us for Zoom Happy Hour this Monday, April 7, at 4:00 PM. Click the link below to join in the discussion of Sunday’s sermon and discussion of THe Last Supper (from the movie in theaters). Wine for this week is Port.
BIBLE STUDY - THURSDAYS AT 10:30 AM: Pastor Richard Bliese led a discussion on the integration of art and prayer, emphasizing the use of art to enhance meditation and group engagement. He referenced Paul Oman's 2022 painting and the historical context of public executions to illustrate the importance of collective participation in religious practices. The conversation also explored the significance of baptism and communion, highlighting their roles in the conversion process and the importance of discerning the body of Christ. Participants shared personal experiences with communion, emphasizing the need for proper preparation and understanding of the sacrament's significance. NOTES FROM TODAY’S CLASS - 4/3/25
Join Pastor Rick next week as he delves deeper into his class on Luther’s Small Catechism.