St Mark Lutheran Church

Before God created the world, he decided in his heart that he would choose you to be saved. In time he made that election and calling certain at your baptism. Baptized in water and the Word, he adopted you into his family. You are his son or daughter, for now and for eternity. He did all of this in Christ, that is, because of what Jesus Christ has done for you. He was blameless and holy for you. He shed his blood for you. He loved you. And so, God chose you in Christ.

War and combat, injury of mind and soul, grief and sorrow, not even death can change this truth: You are chosen in Christ. Therefore, you are his son. You are his daughter. You are the object of his love, in life and in death.

Prayer:

Father, your thoughts are not our thoughts, nor are your ways our ways. In your wisdom you have allowed the terrors of war to strike the families of these four Soldiers who died in service to our country. Do not let their sacrifice be in vain. Comfort those who grieve with the sure promise of the resurrection from the dead. Send your holy angels to protect our war fighters while they are training and actively engaged in combat. Bring peace to this region of the world so that we may live in peace. Amen.

Read the full Military Devotion here: https://wels.net/dev-military/you-are-chosen/

Parents invest when they bring their family to worship and Sunday school. Friends are “rich in good deeds” when they use their time and talents to help others. You become spiritually rich whenever you spend time with God in his Word. So, who is the richest kid in the world? You may not have the most money or the coolest stuff. But if Jesus is your Savior, that makes every child of God—including you—one of the richest kids in the world.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, help us put our hope in you instead of money or possessions. Make us rich in faith, rich in good deeds, and rich in the treasures that last forever. Amen.

Read the full family devotional here: http://wels.net/family-devotion/fd20260729/

Whether you're refreshing your wardrobe or in need of some essentials, we have something for everyone. From head to toe discover items suitable for all ages – infants, children, teens, and adults. Plus a selection of hats, bags, scarves, and more. Let's come together, support one another, and ensure that everyone leaves with a smile and something special for the new school year!

https://www.facebook.com/events/1555513806011491

Each Wednesday at 6:30pm, we have our mid-week Bible class. We have been studying the Means of Grace; the tools through which God creates and strengthens our faith in him. We are currently taking a look at the Law and the Gospel, as we discuss the differences between the two, and how we can recognize and separate them. All are welcome. All are encouraged to join us.

The beautiful truth we possess through the power of the good news of Jesus Christ. Because God the Son has lived a perfect life on my behalf; washed my every sin away through his suffering and death, and risen from the tomb, I now have the priceless privilege to speaking to God without fear. I can speak to him in the greatest of openness. I can talk to him in candor about anything. For through faith in the Messiah, I am secure. I am his.

Prayer:
Lord, through faith in your blood I am secure in you. Move me to speak in candor. Amen.

Read the full devotion here: https://wels.net/dev-daily/dd20260727/

Lots of fun was had this week at Ready, Set, Gold! VBS. Thank you to all who came and to all volunteers who helped make the four evenings special.

Unfortunately, people often make a mistake. They begin to love the gifts more than the Giver. God’s creation should lead us to honor and thank him. Instead, sinners become so focused on God’s gifts that they forget the Giver. That’s called sin, and sin deserves God’s punishment. Yet, God did not stop loving those who loved his gifts more than him. The Giver gave the greatest gift of all—Jesus. Jesus perfectly honored his Father and took our idolatry to the cross. Because of Jesus, our sins are forgiven. Through faith, we learn to love the Giver above all his gifts. God didn’t leave us in our sins. He gave us Jesus! The Giver gave us the best gift—Jesus, the Savior from sin.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, forgive us when we love your gifts more than we love you. Help us honor and thank you as the Giver of every good thing. Amen.

Read the full devotion here: https://wels.net/family-devotion/fd20260722/

The Lord God stands alone. He does something that sinful minds couldn’t have even imagined. He came to us, wearing our flesh and blood. He redeemed us, taking our sinful failures upon himself. He loves us, promising his presence with us through life and preparing a place in eternity with him when this life comes to its close.
Truly, the God of the Bible stands alone.

Prayer:
Lord God, help me to see you for you who are—eternal, powerful, and singular in your love for fallen humanity. Move my heart to serve you in my life. Amen.

Read the full devotion here: https://wels.net/dev-daily/dd20260720/