1-4-24 Grace-Tucson Sermon

THE FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY

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4, 2024

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Welcome to Grace!

Our mission at Grace is to teach the inspired and inerrant Word of God, to proclaim that Jesus Christ is the crucified and risen Savior of the world, and to nurture believers for lives of Christian service.

Check out the GRACE WEBSITE at GraceLutheranSAZ.org WORSHIP NOTES We are very pleased that you have joined us for worship today! We pray that this time will be a blessing for you as God comes to you with his Word and promises and as you offer him your thanks and praise.

The order of worship we will follow is printed in this worship folder for you to follow along and participate. You’ll notice that the service is a dialogue between God and us, his people. The pastor speaks to God along with the congregation and also speaks the Word of God to the people. LARGE PRINT worship folders are available at the entrances for those who desire them.

Today we are using elements from the Christian Worship (2021) hymnal. You will find these blue worship books in the hymnal racks in each pew. You will be asked to open the hymnal to participate in parts of the service today. A vocalist will aid in our singing and will be recorded for our audio disks and video live-streaming.

There is no cost to park in our parking lot during Sunday morning worship services. If you receive a citation by mistake, please let our office staff know so it can be cleared.

OUR WORSHIP SERIES—FROM THE RIVER TO THE MOUNTAIN “Epiphany” comes from a Greek word that means “reveal.” Today, if someone says, “I had an epiphany,” he means he had some extremely important, life-changing revelation. Within the Church Year, that is the purpose of the season of Epiphany—to reveal important truths about Jesus Christ, truths that will indeed change your life.

For most of his adult life, Jesus was known simply as Mary’s son. He followed his adoptive father, Joseph, into the carpentry business. People in his hometown of Nazareth probably thought of Jesus as a very nice man—hardworking, honest, a role model for others. (That is still how many think of Jesus today.) But around the age of thirty, the fuller truth about Jesus began to be revealed: his person, his power, his purpose. It started with Jesus standing in a river with John the Baptist. The biggest epiphany took place at a mountain, where select followers saw Jesus shining brighter than the sun. All these epiphanies—all these revelations about Jesus—changed the lives of everyone around him. In this season of Epiphany, as we follow Jesus from the river to the mountain, may they change us too.

Our worship is following these themes: It Begins with Baptism Committed to a Lofty Charge Absolute Authority The Devil’s Work Undone A Glimpse of His True Glory

THEME FOR TODAY—THE DEVIL’S WORK UNDONE Martin Luther once said, “Where God built a church, there the Devil would also build a chapel.” Satan and the other demons hate God. They demonstrate hatred by hurting those that God loves in any way they can. The epiphany Christ wants us to have is this: demons are real, they are plenteous, and they are dangerous. But Christ would also have us see that he is continually undoing the Devil’s work. More, through his Word, Christ Jesus gives us the power to resist the Devil and stand firm in the faith.

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+ ORDER OF WORSHIP + WELCOME

OPENING HYMN—Afflicted Saints, to Christ Draw Near

PRESERVICE MUSIC:

On Eagle’s Wings Anne Krentz Organ Day by Day Rachel Trelstad Porter

Christian Worship 867

It Is Well with My Soul Zach Unke

Please note the special directions for singing this hymn—the refrain is NOT sung after the first verse; however it is sung following the other verses.

Please stand

INVOCATION Minister: In the name of the Father and of the Son (+) and of the Holy Spirit.

Congregation: Amen.

CONFESSION Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered.

Psalm 32:1-2

Blessed are they whose sin the Lord does not count against them.

Let us confess our sins to the Lord.

Almighty and merciful Father, we have strayed from your ways like lost sheep.

We have followed what we have devised and desired in our hearts.

We have offended you and sinned against your holy law.

We have done those things that we should not have done, and we have not done those things that we should have done.

Have mercy on us, Lord!

Spare us, forgive us, and restore us, according to your promises in Christ Jesus.

Silence for meditation and reflection

God, our merciful Father, has forgiven all our sins. He sent his Son, Jesus Christ, to be our Redeemer and Savior. Jesus paid the penalty for our guilt by his death on the cross and freed us from death by his resurrection from the grave. We have peace with God now and forever.

Amen.

“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” James 5:16

Christ gave the authority to forgive the sins of penitent sinners to his church: “Whenever you forgive people’s sins, they are forgiven.”

John 20:23

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Mark 10:47

Kyrie is the Greek word for Lord. The expression “Lord, have mercy” is one of the oldest worship responses in the Christian Church.

LORD, HAVE MERCY

Kyrie

In peace let us pray to the Lord.

Lord, have mercy.

For the peace from above and for our salvation, let us pray to the Lord.

Lord, have mercy.

For the peace of the whole world, for the well-being of the Church of God, and for the unity of all, let us pray to the Lord.

Lord, have mercy.

For this holy house and for all who offer here their worship and praise, let us pray to the Lord.

Lord, have mercy.

Help, save, comfort, and defend us, gracious Lord.

Amen.

Luke 2:14 Christians praise God by proclaiming the great things he has done to accomplish our rescue from sin.

“Glory to God in the Highest” has been a Christian song of worship since the fourth century.

This song continues on the next page.

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GLORY TO GOD IN THE HIGHEST

Gloria

Text: Michael A. Perry © 1982 Hope Publishing Co. Used by permission: OneLicense no. 710199. Tune: Public domain.

+ THE WORD + PRAYER OF THE DAY The Lord be with you.

And also with you.

Let us pray.

Heavenly Father, keep your family continually in true faith, so that those who rely only on the hope of your heavenly grace may be protected by your mighty power; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

Amen.

Please be seated

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When the Devil’s temptations make us tired and accusations make us weary, the L promises to renew our strength.

FIRST READING 27

28

29

30

31

Isaiah 40:27-31

Why do you speak, O Jacob?

O Israel, why do you say, “My way is hidden from the L , and justice for me is ignored by my God”?

Do you not know? Have you not heard?

The L is the eternal God. He is the Creator of the ends of the earth.

He will not grow tired, and he will not become weary.

No one can find a limit to his understanding.

He is the one who gives strength to the weak, and he increases the strength of those who lack power.

Young men grow tired and become weary.

Even strong men stumble and fall.

But those who wait for the L will receive new strength.

They will lift up their wings and soar like eagles.

They will run and not become weary.

They will walk and not become tired.

The Word of the Lord.

Thanks be to God.

HYMN—It Is Well with My Soul

Our enemy the Devil may stalk us like a hungry lion hunting prey, but the God of all grace cares for us and promises deliverance.

SECOND READING

Christian Worship 850

1 Peter 5:6-11

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Therefore humble yourselves under God’s powerful hand so that he may lift you up at the appointed time. 7 Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you. 8 Have sound judgment. Be alert. Your adversary, the Devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him by being firm in the faith. You know that the same kinds of sufferings are being laid on your brotherhood all over the world.

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After you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who called you into his eternal glory in Christ Jesus, will himself restore, establish, strengthen, and support you. 11 To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.

The Word of the Lord.

Thanks be to God.

Please stand

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GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Isaiah 40:31

The Gospel Acclamation points toward the words of the Gospel.

Mark 1:29-39

The Devil loves to see God’s children suffer.

Jesus undoes the Devil’s work.

Refrain (ALL):

Vocalist: Those who hope in the L will renew their strength.

They will soar on wings like eagles.

Refrain (ALL) Tune: © 2010, 2021 GFTSMUSIC Publishing Company, Inc., admin. Music Services. Used by permission: OneLicense no. 710199.

GOSPEL 29

They left the synagogue and went with James and John to the home of Simon and Andrew. 30 Simon’s mother-in-law was lying in bed, sick with a fever. Without delay they told Jesus about her. 31 He went to her, took her by the hand, and raised her up. The fever left her, and she began to serve them. 32 That evening, when the sun had set, the people kept bringing to him all who were sick and demon-possessed. 33 The whole town gathered at the door. 34 He healed many people who were sick with various diseases and drove out many demons. But he did not allow the demons to speak, because they knew who he was.

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Jesus got up early in the morning, while it was still dark, and went out.

He withdrew to a solitary place and was praying there. 36 Simon and his companions searched for him, 37 and, when they found him, they said to him, “Everyone is looking for you!”

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He told them, “Let’s go somewhere else, to the neighboring villages, so that I can preach there too. In fact, that is why I have come.” 39 Then he went throughout the whole region of Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving out demons.

The Gospel of the Lord.

Praise be to you, O Christ.

Please be seated

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HYMN OF THE DAY—What Threat of Harm Can Hinder Me

Christian Worship 875

The vocalist will sing stanza 1. Please join in singing the remainder of the hymn.

SERMON

1 Peter 5:6-11 Resist the Devil

Please stand

The Nicene Creed was first developed in 325 at the First Council of Nicea. It was written to reaffirm the Biblical teaching of the divinity of Jesus, God’s Son. Like the Apostles’ and Athanasian Creeds, the Nicene Creed is a confession of what the Bible teaches.

CONFESSION OF FAITH

Nicene Creed

We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen.

We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one being with the Father.

Through him all things were made.

For us and for our salvation, he came down from heaven, was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary, and became truly human.

For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate.

He suffered death and was buried.

On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures.

He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father.

He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end.

We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who in unity with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets.

We believe in one holy Christian and apostolic Church.

We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.

We look for the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. Amen.

Please be seated

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PRAYER OF THE CHURCH Eternal Lord, give us peace as we ponder the good news that you forgive our sins in Christ. Lead us to see clearly the path you have laid out for us.

Brief intercessory prayers may be added in a fitting place.

Work in us so that we believe and live the Word we have heard today.

Provide courage and compassion to all who preach and teach your Word. Fill them with a love like yours as they proclaim your grace to us and all people.

Move us to love all ministers of the Word wherever they serve.

Guard and guide the families of our congregation. Lead husbands and wives to love each other with commitment, respect, and patience. Help parents to grasp the eternal value of keeping their children close to Jesus all their lives. Grant joy to those who are single, and make them a blessing to others.

Protect us from the temptations that surround us; give us pure hearts and minds.

Provide wisdom and insight to those who make laws and set policies. Give us respect for those who protect us from crime. Lead us to value the rights of our fellow citizens and to defend those who cannot defend themselves.

Bless our land with peace and prosperity so that the gospel may be proclaimed to all.

Give us passion to share the story of your love with our family and friends. Overcome unbelief, and open the hearts of people everywhere to believe the good news that Jesus has forgiven their sins and opened the gates of heaven.

Fill us with joy over every sinner who repents and comes to trust in you.

Extend your healing power to those who are sick and suffering in body or mind. Give patience and compassion to all who care for the sick and dying.

Lift the eyes of the distressed to your love in Christ.

Hear us, Lord, as we pray in silence.

Silent prayer

Gracious God, you govern and direct all things and you love all people. Hear our prayers, spoken and silent, and answer them in your wisdom and grace.

In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

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OFFERTORY:

A Mighty Fortress Is Our God à la Pachelbel Greg Bottomley

OFFERING Members of Grace respond to their Savior’s love with offerings that are given joyfully, generously, regularly, and in a way that is proportionate to how the Lord has blessed them. Their cheerful gifts support the mission and ministry of our congregation. If you are a guest today, please know that we do not expect you to contribute to our congregation’s work. However, if you would like to give an offering to the Lord in response to his love to you, we are happy to receive it and put it to work in God’s kingdom. If you prefer, use your smart phone to give online by scanning this QR code: Please fill out the Friendship Register located in the red folder at the end of the row and pass it along. Thank you!

Please stand

+ THE SACRAMENT + PREFACE The Lord be with you.

And also with you.

Lift up your hearts.

We lift them up to the Lord.

Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right to give him thanks and praise.

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, who lived among us as a human being and revealed his glory as your only Son, full of grace and truth. Therefore, with all the saints on earth and hosts of heaven, we praise your holy name and join their glorious song:

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HOLY, HOLY, HOLY

Sanctus

Text: Michael D. Schultz © 2021 Northwestern Publishing House. Used by permission: OneLicense no. 710199. Tune: Friedrich K. Anthes. Public domain.

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING Lord God, you are worthy to receive thanks and praise from all people. You created the world and all who live in it, and in your mercy you saved us. We give thanks to you for the grace of your Son, Jesus Christ.

Though in very nature God, he took the nature of a servant and became obedient to death, even death on a cross. He offered himself as a sacrifice for sin and redeemed us from its curse and penalty. He rescued us from the terrors of death and restored eternal life with you. He conquered our enemies and gained for us the kingdom of grace and glory.

Bless us as we receive your Son’s body and blood, and lead us to remember his suffering, death, and resurrection. Forgive our sins and fill us with the hope of new life in heaven. Hear our praise and receive our thanks as we worship you—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Amen.

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Matthew 6 and Luke 11 record how Jesus taught his disciples to pray. We use his example prayer as part of our public worship, trusting that he will hear and answer our prayers.

LORD’S PRAYER Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever. Amen.

WORDS OF INSTITUTION As he speaks the Words of Institution, the minister both proclaims the words of Jesus to the congregation and sets apart the bread and wine for this special use. The sign of the cross reminds us of Christ’s death.

Our Lord Jesus Christ, on the night he was betrayed, took bread; and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my (+) body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.”

Then he took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you; this is my (+) blood of the new covenant, which is poured out for you for the forgiveness of sins. Do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.”

The peace of the Lord be with you always.

Amen.

O CHRIST, LAMB OF GOD

Text: Michael D. Schultz © 2021 Northwestern Publishing House. Used by permission: OneLicense no. 710199. Tune: Latin, 15th cent. Public domain.

Please be seated

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Agnus Dei

DISTRIBUTION The Bible teaches that the Lord’s Supper is a unique communion of Christ and the individual believer as well as a coming together of people who hold to the same beliefs. Because of these Scriptural truths, we practice Member Communion at Grace. Those who are confirmed members of Wisconsin Synod congregations (WELS) are invited to receive the Lord’s Supper with us.

If you are not a WELS member but have an interest in receiving Holy Communion, please speak with the pastor after church today or at another time. We are aware that there are a number of other teachings about Holy Communion, and we want it to be a blessing for you, so we would look forward to sharing with you what God says about this Sacrament.

PRAYER BEFORE COMMUNION (For private meditation) Lord Jesus, you have invited me to come and receive your holy Sacrament. I believe that in the bread and wine you give me your true body and blood to eat and drink. Forgive my sins and nourish my faith through this precious meal. I long for the comfort that comes with your promises; I yearn for the assurance of your faithful love. Bless me now as I receive you by faith. Amen.

Gluten-free communion wafers and grape juice are available for those who for health or medical reason require it. Please see page 14.

COMMUNION MUSIC: Prayer Meditation Victor Labenske Communion Meditation Victor Labenske

PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION (For private meditation) Thank you, dear Savior, for nourishing my faith with the Sacrament of your body and blood. Lift my heart with your forgiveness, renew my confidence in your grace, empower my love for others, and lead me to long for the eternal banquet of heaven. Amen.

Please stand

+ THANKSGIVING + SPOKEN RESPONSES Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;

Psalm 106:1

his mercy endures forever.

Whenever we eat this bread and drink this cup,

1 Corinthians 11:26

we proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.

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CLOSING PRAYER We give you thanks, O Lord, for the foretaste of the heavenly banquet you have given us in this Sacrament. Through this gift you have fed our faith, nourished our hope, and strengthened our love. By your Spirit, help us to live as your holy people until that day when you will receive us as your guests at the wedding supper of the Lamb, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

Amen.

The blessing of Aaron has been spoken over God’s people for over 3,500 years. The L said, “In this way they will put my name on [them], and I will bless them.” Numbers 6:27

BLESSING The Lord bless you and keep you.

The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you.

The Lord look on you with favor and (+) give you peace.

Amen.

Please be seated

ANNOUNCEMENTS

CLOSING HYMN—Abide, O Dearest Jesus

POSTLUDE MUSIC:

O Church, Arise Christian Worship 870

Christian Worship 924

THOSE ASSISTING IN WORSHIP THIS MORNING Preacher ...................................................................................... Pastor Nathan Kassulke Worship Leader ................................................................................. Pastor Ron Koehler Accompanist ............................................................................................... Teri Guenther Vocalist .....................................................................................................Dylan Guenther Greeters ................................................................................ DJ & Jenn Miller (10:00 AM) Ushers ..................................................................... Rusty King, Vic Thornton (7:45 AM) Jon Dongoske, Chris Dietrich, Ferdie Kramm, Rick Street (10:00 AM) Communion Prep ........................ Audrey Nessinger, Jeanette O’Donald, Lauri Colton Sound and Recording Techs .............. Jeremy Snavely, Danny Koehler, Sam Kassulke Banner Committee ...................... Nadine Rentschler, Jeanette O’Donald, Sandy Weir Acknowledgements: Scripture readings are taken from The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version® (EHV®) © 2018 The Wartburg Project. All rights reserved. wartburgproject.org.

Created by Christian Worship: Service Builder © 2023 Concordia Publishing House. Software distributed in partnership with Northwestern Publishing House.

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TODAY Holy Communion We provide gluten-free communion wafers for those with wheat allergy, gluten-sensitivity, or celiac disease. These wafers are stored and handled separately to avoid cross-contamination. They are “bread” as Scripture requires and are consecrated along with the rest of the bread. For those requiring gluten-free wafers, please take one from the stand located at the front rail as you approach for communion. Simply hold it so that the pastor can see it at the time of distribution. Grape juice is available for those who for health or medical reason require it instead of wine. Please speak with a pastor about providing grape juice for you on future Sundays.

Today we are distributing Holy Communion in “tables.” The ushers will direct members forward by the side aisles. Groups of about ten will be guided toward the center aisle and will line up to receive the elements together. After each table communes, the pastor will offer a blessing and dismiss the group to return by the center aisle.

To aid in your personal preparation for Holy Communion, a list of Christian Questions can be found on pages 295-296 in the hymnal. These were prepared by Martin Luther for those intending to receive the Sacrament.

Altar Flowers

The flowers beautifying our altar this morning were given by Rick and Molly Street in memory of Molly’s mother, Nilda Mundo.

If you would like to provide flowers for the altar, please call (520-623-6633) or email (office@gracelutheransaz.org) the Grace Central Office to reserve a Sunday. Upcoming available Sundays include March 17 & 24 and all the Sundays in April. The cost for the 2 bouquets is $32.50. After the 10:00 AM service you may take the flowers home or leave them to be dropped off to one of our homebound members if a visit is being made.

Fellowship

Following the 10:00 AM service this morning, you are invited to join us in the courtyard and Fellowship Hall for drinks and snacks. We thank the Miller family for hosting this week. Upcoming available dates are March 3, 17, & 24. Please sign up on the sheet in the Fellowship Hall.

Sunday Morning Bible Study

On Sunday mornings we are studying the book of 1 John under the theme, “Living in the Light of God’s Love.” 1 John is a brief book nestled into the back of the Bible, but it is full of wisdom for Christians living in the light and joy of God’s love for them. We meet at 9:00 AM in the Fellowship Hall. If you have not made Sunday morning Bible study a part of your routine, this would be a great time to start!

WELS Tucson Campus Ministry (TCM)

TCM Bible study is tonight! All college students and college-age individuals are welcome at 7:00 PM in the Student Center located in the basement here at Grace-Tucson. They will be covering many topics under the theme “Wise Like God.” TCM has an app for college-aged adults! Search “welstcm” to download it and learn how to join its spring semester activities like weekly Bible study in the TCM Student Center, weekly casual discussion on the UA campus, quarterly outings, and monthly events. Contact Campus Pastor Tim (welstcm@welstcm.com) for questions.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS Divine Call Received

Pastor Kassulke was informed on January 16 that New Life Lutheran Church in Rockford, Illinois voted to extend to him a Divine Call to serve as their pastor. This means that he now holds two calls, one to Grace and one to New Life. He is working to make a decision whether to accept the new Call and move his ministry to Illinois or to decline the Call and continue serving here. He will strive to make that decision with prayer and careful consideration where his particular gifts for ministry fit best.

Pastor Kassulke welcomes any input that the friends and members of Grace might wish to share with him. You can reach him by email at RevNPK@GraceLutheranSAZ.org or (520)260-4453. He also appreciates prayers offered on behalf of him and his family during this deliberation as well as for both congregations.

Monday Evening Service at Grace-Sahuarita

An evening worship service is held at Grace-Sahuarita on Monday evenings at 6:00 PM. This service provides another alternative for those who may not be able to worship on Sunday. Members who regularly worship at any Grace sites are welcome to make use of this weeknight service.

Church History Bible Study: Wednesday

In our Wednesday Church History class we are learning about the founding of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod. Even if you haven’t attended this class before, this is an excellent time to join. We study together in the Grace-Tucson Fellowship Hall at 10:00 AM and repeat the same material at 7:00 PM. Join us for whichever time fits your schedule best!

Women’s Bible Study: Thursday

“I’ve been hurt and can’t let go of the anger.” “I struggle with wanting instant gratification.” “My faith has been tested with financial challenges and blessings.” “I’ve noticed that I’m not as sensitive to immoral things as I used to be.” Does any of this sound familiar? Pastor Koehler is leading a Bible study on Our Christian Response to Blessings and Challenges on Thursday mornings at 9:00 AM in the Fellowship Hall. Make plans to join him for what promises to be a helpful and faith-strengthening study each week—and invite a friend to join you!

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ANNOUNCEMENTS Ladies’ Valentine Tea: Saturday

Ladies from all Grace sites are invited to attend the Women of Grace Valentine’s Tea this Saturday, February 10, at 11:00 AM in the Grace-Tucson Fellowship Hall. We host this event for all the WELS ladies in Tucson. Deb Bakken will be giving a presentation on our sister church in Ukraine. Grace ladies are invited to decorate and set a table, and any theme is welcome. We need ten tables set for 6-8 people. We also provide a large array of brunch/lunch type food and desserts, and kitchen help is also needed. You are invited to sign up for any of these needs on the sheets in the Fellowship Hall. If you have any questions, please contact Adrienne Snavely at golong31@hotmail.com or 520-302-7840. We hope you can join us for this popular and fun event!

TCM Hike: Saturday

WELS Tucson Campus Ministry (TCM) is providing a hike for college-aged adults! Soak in the views of saguaros, mountains, creeks, and Tucson all from Sabino Canyon. We'll enjoy an Eegee's treat afterwards. Hike starts this Saturday at 12:00 PM. If interested, contact Campus Pastor Tim (540623-1149).

Midweek Lenten Services

Wednesday midweek services will be held at Grace-Benson, Grace-Sahuarita, and Grace-Tucson beginning with Ash Wednesday on February 14 and continuing through March 20. You are also invited to join us for a Lenten Supper each Wednesday here at Grace-Tucson at 6:00 PM. The theme of our midweek services is “God on Trial.” This series focuses on when God was literally put on trial in the person of Christ. In these inspired episodes, believers find a model and motivation for how to live as God’s people in Jesus. The sermons and service themes will rotate among the various sites, so worshipers who attend more than one site could hear a sermon repeated.

Grace-Benson: Grace-Tucson: Grace-Sahuarita:

10 AM Lenten Worship 10 AM & 7 PM Lenten Worship 4 PM & 6 PM Lenten Worship

Lunch to follow 6 PM Light Supper 5 PM Supper

Midweek Lenten Supper Hosts Needed

A light supper will be held at 6:00 PM each Wednesday evening before our Lenten service.

Volunteers are needed to host these meals beginning on February 14. Please sign up on the sheet in the Fellowship Hall. A free-will offering will be taken to help cover expenses.

Ladies’ Fellowship Group: February 15

The Ladies’ Fellowship Group will meet on Thursday, February 15, at 10:15 AM in the Grace-Tucson Fellowship Hall. They are holding a mini “Great Exchange.” Ladies are asked to bring items (in good condition) that you no longer need or want for exchanging with each other. Please bring a sack lunch. Please contact Lois Thornton at (520)323-8772 or vthornto2@gmail.com with any questions.

Ladies from all Grace sites are welcome to attend.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS WELS Night with the Tucson Roadrunners: February 24

Enjoy a great night of hockey and fellowship with other WELS members on Saturday, February 24, at 7:00 PM at the Tucson Roadrunners hockey game. Tickets can be purchased for $20 (includes a Roadrunners hat) by contacting Kristin at (520)269-7962 or email Kristin.Brand@TucsonRoadrunners.com.

Grow in Grace Class

Would you like to learn more about our risen Savior, about the Bible that tells us about him, and about what Grace Lutheran Church believes and teaches? Our congregation offers a series of Bible-based lessons called Grow in Grace. Grow in Grace also serves as our membership class for those who may be interested in joining the church. If you would be interested in scheduling a Grow in Grace Class, please speak to one of the Pastors, or register your interest at GraceLutheranSAZ.org/GIG.

Helping Hands

Sometimes you could just use a helping hand! Do you have a talent or service that you could offer to our fellow Grace members who could use some help (at a minimal cost or free)? Just a few ideas: outdoor work, computer work, sewing/mending, handyman, cooking, organizing, transportation to appointments, etc. We’re sure there are many more! If you would like to help, please fill out a Helping Hands card found on the bulletin board outside of the Library in the Fellowship Hall. The offers we have already received are posted on the bulletin board as well.

ACSTO Donations for Grace Members

Thank you to the many members who have used the Arizona Tuition Tax Credit to support our students at Redeemer Lutheran School and Arizona Lutheran Academy! Many Grace families and students who attend our Lutheran Schools appreciate your making use of Arizona's Tuition Tax Credits to support their education. These schools partner with the Arizona Christian School Tuition Organization (ACSTO) to participate in this program. Through the tax credit, you can use money that you would otherwise spend on taxes to support Lutheran education.

You can find more information and even make a donation online through the ACSTO website, ACSTO.org. Remember that this option is available to all those who have state tax liability in Arizona. Grace member Jeff Weinstein (520-909-7649, JWeinstein@ACSTO.org) is also an employee of ACSTO. He is able to help answer questions you may have. Even if you have never made use of tuition tax credits before, we would be happy to help you figure it out!

Stay Up to Date

The fastest and easiest way to keep Grace members and friends informed about what is happening at our four sites is through our weekly email update. This email is sent every Friday and at other times when special announcements are necessary. If you have not been receiving this email, but would like to, please email the Grace Central Office at office@gracelutheransaz.org and request to be added to our email list.

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This schedule is subject to change. Please watch your email for the most up-to-date information or call the Grace Central Office at (520)623-6633 if you have questions.

This Week at Grace February 4 - February 11 TUCSON Today Worship Services with communion..................7:45a & 10:00a Children’s Bible Hour ...................................................... 8:45a Adult Bible Study: Living in the Light of God’s Love ....... 9:00a Grow in Grace Class (Office Conference Room) ........... 9:00a Lifeliners (High School group) Bible Study ..................... 9:00a Fellowship following worship ...................................................

TCM Bible Study ............................................................. 7:00p Tuesday Weekly Pastors’ Meeting ................................................ 9:00a English Classes .............................................................. 6:30p

VAIL Today Adult Bible Study: The Gospel in the Psalms................. 9:00a Youth Bible Study ........................................................... 9:00a Worship Service with communion ................................ 10:00a Thursday Adult Bible Study: Sanctification .................................... 6:30p Next Sunday, February 11 Adult Bible Study: The Gospel in the Psalms................. 9:00a Youth Bible Study ........................................................... 9:00a Worship Service ........................................................... 10:00a

Wednesday Midweek Bible Study: Church History .............10:00a & 7:00p Thursday Women’s Bible Study ..................................................... 9:00a Our Christian Response to Blessings & Challenges Handbells ........................................................................ 5:30p Worship Choir ................................................................. 6:45p Saturday Ladies’ Valentine Tea ................................................... 11:00a Next Sunday, February 11 Worship Services .............................................7:45a & 10:00a Children’s Bible Hour ...................................................... 8:45a Adult Bible Study: Living in the Light of God’s Love ....... 9:00a Grow in Grace Class (Office Conference Room) ........... 9:00a Lifeliners (High School group) Bible Study ..................... 9:00a Fellowship following worship ...................................................

NO TCM Bible Study (resumes February 18) BENSON Today Worship Service with communion .................................. 7:30a Adult Bible Study: Holy Spirit .......................................... 8:45a Wednesday Bible Study: The Large Catechism ............................... 10:00a Next Sunday, February 11 Worship Service.............................................................. 7:30a Adult Bible Study: Holy Spirit .......................................... 8:45a OFF-SITE EVENTS Monday Pastors’ Circuit Meeting at Holy Cross ........................... 9:00a Thursday TCM Bible Discussion on UA Campus ........................... 7:00p Saturday TCM Hike ...................................................................... 12:00p

SAHUARITA Today Adult Bible Study: Timely Topics .................................... 9:00a Children’s Sunday School .............................................. 9:00a Worship Service with communion ................................ 10:00a Adult Choir practice following worship ....................................

Monday Worship Service ............................................................. 6:00p Tuesday Confirmation Class ......................................................... 4:00p Wednesday Midweek Bible Study: ................................................... 10:00a Why Are There Different Churches?

Grow in Grace Class ...................................................... 4:30p Friday Family Date Night ........................................................... 6:00p

Next Sunday, February 11 Adult Bible Study: Timely Topics .................................... 9:00a Children’s Sunday School .............................................. 9:00a Worship Service ........................................................... 10:00a Adult Choir practice following worship ....................................

ONLINE Today Adult Bible Study (Tucson)............................................. 9:00a Worship Services (Sahuarita & Tucson) ...................... 10:00a Next Sunday, February 11 Adult Bible Study (Tucson)............................................. 9:00a Worship Services (Sahuarita & Tucson) ...................... 10:00a

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One Church. Four Locations.

Proclaiming the love of Jesus in Southern Arizona since 1911.

Grace-Tucson and Central Office

Grace-Sahuarita

830 N. 1st Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85719 (520)623-6633 office@gracelutheransaz.org

75 W. Sahuarita Rd, Sahuarita, AZ 85629 (520)578-3538

Pastor Ronald G. Koehler III revrgk3@gracelutheransaz.org

Pastor Nathan P. Kassulke revnpk@gracelutheransaz.org

Pastor Timothy L. Patoka (Campus Ministry)

Pastor Ryan A. Heiman

revrah@gracelutheransaz.org

Child Learning Center

(520) 848-4630 receptionist@gracelutheransaz.org GraceLutheranSahuaritaCLC.com

Director—Laura Heiman

director@gracelutheransaz.org

revtlp@gracelutheransaz.org

Assistant Director—Jen Rickling

Grace-Benson and Grace-Vail

Child Learning Center Mission Teachers

Benson

451 W. Duane St., Benson, AZ 85602

Vail

jrickling@gracelutheransaz.org

Chris Leathers, 1-Year Olds cleathers@gracelutheransaz.org

Worshipping at Esmond Station Elementary 9400 S. Atterbury Wash Way, Tucson, AZ 85747

Sam Anthon, 2-Year Olds

Pastor Seth A. Scheuerlein

Vicki Smith, 3-Year Olds

revsas@gracelutheransaz.org

vsmith@gracelutheransaz.org

Office at Civano

Theresa Pratt, Preschool

10501 E. Seven Generations Way, Tucson, AZ 85747 (520)848-4631

Prayer Group—Laura Hodgson prayergroup@gracelutheransaz.org

santhon@gracelutheransaz.org

tpratt@gracelutheransaz.org

Katie Patoka, After School Care kpatoka@gracelutheransaz.org

Bible-Based Counselor—Cinda Drescher

Worship Coordinator—Beth Kassulke

cinda@gracelutheransaz.org (520)581-4714

music@gracelutheransaz.org

Administrative Assistant—Debbie Koehler

Office Assistant—Cora Stuhr

assistant@gracelutheransaz.org

office@gracelutheransaz.org

wels.net

Grace Lutheran Church is a member of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS), a group of nearly 400,000 men, women, and children in nearly 1,300 congregations across the United States and Canada united by a common faith in Christ's saving love. We are committed to a common calling—encouraging each other in our faith and sharing God's gift of a Savior with the rest of the world.