Lord of life lutheran
FEBRUARY 2020
C O M P A S S
L E T ’ S
L A U G H !
by Pastor Karen Griemel (kareng@lordoflife.org)
Yikes, it’s only February . . . “How will I ever make it ‘til May?” my adult daughter asked. You have lived in Minnesota your entire life, you’ve done it before, you can do it again, I replied. The reality is the days are getting longer by about one minute per day. This gently and steadily prepares us for the longer, lighter, warmer days to come. It gives us something to look forward to with great anticipation and appreciation. When I lived in Albuquerque, New Mexico, it was sunny literally every day. I began to take the sun for granted, not appreciating it like I had while living in Minnesota. It became an expectation that every day there would be sun. It’s funny because when there was a day of unexpected rain or clouds—I loved it! Are we ever really happy with the weather? That said, we do need to make it ‘til May. How can we make the best of it? I think that Victor Hugo said it best, “Laughter is the sun that drives winter from the human face.” Laughter, yes!
Let's laugh! .............................2-3 Bible 101......................................4-5 community life...........................6-7 find your simple joys..........8-9 learn with a pastor.............. 10 contacts/calendar ................ 11
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Laughter is one of the best medicines out there, particularly when it comes to the winter blues as it releases endorphins and serotonin, helping to raise your mood and reduce stress. Studies have found that even the anticipation of laughter can help to reduce stress levels and lift spirits, but many of us don’t laugh enough. Easy ways to increase your laughter is to go out with friends, watch your favorite comedian or comedy movie, or read a funny book. You might also want to turn up the tunes and dance. When I did that, it sure made me laugh and I got some much needed exercise too!
Another blah beater is to get outside in God’s creation, play, ski, skate, take a walk and appreciate the cold and ice while you can because this too shall pass and then there will be complaining about the heat and humidity. Ecclesiastes says, For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven. Though not referring to the
weather, it does remind us that like life, both natural and spiritual, there will be times of “blah.” That’s the opportunity to look beyond ourselves and to the One who created us and loves us.
humor. So go ahead and pray for summer to get here, God will lovingly laugh and understand. In the meantime, you should laugh, too, and may that drive the winter from your face.
Prayer is also a blah beater and I believe God has a good sense of humor. Maybe that’s what winter in Minnesota is all about . . . having a good sense of 3
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L A U G H I N G
M A T T E R
by Lead Pastor Joel Wight Hoogheem (joel@lordoflife.org)
Bible 101
As someone who often takes himself too seriously, I am qualified to offer the following diagnosis: when we read the Bible and listen to the stories of Scripture, we often take ourselves far too seriously.
I can hear the objection: “But this is the Word of God! It would be disrespectful not to take it seriously!” Allow me to be clear: I think it’s important to take the Word of God seriously, but if we take ourselves and our engagement with the Word too seriously, we can miss out on both the humor and the joy contained in these inspired texts. It is very important for us to know that “Jesus wept” (see John 11:35) because it shows how deeply connected Jesus is with us. By the same token, for Jesus to be truly relatable, it’s also important to know that joy and mirth were a part of his life, too. Ecclesiastes 3:4 says “there is a time to weep and a time to laugh” and Jesus tells the parable of the prodigal son(s) which culminates in a joyful celebration in Luke 15:24. Besides, how truly human is Jesus if he can’t enjoy humor and laughter?
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Humor is a great gift that lightens our spirits and connects us together. Humor allows us to let our guard down a bit and feel things more deeply. We’re aware of how closely connected tears of joy and tears of sorrow are, after all. When we allow the possibility that Scripture may actually be funny in places, we’re able to experience it—and our faith—more deeply. That’s especially true throughout the Old Testament, as the Jewish sensibilities that run throughout the texts are full of puns, plays on words, and other humorous elements. For example, it’s commendable to have a good study Bible or a good Bible study group along with a well-rounded sense of humor when you read the book of Ruth. We’re told at the outset of the book that the names of Naomi’s two sons (and the husbands of Orpah and Ruth, respectively) are Mahlon and Chilian. So what, right? Well, those names mean “Death” and “Dying,” so it’s no great surprise when Ruth 1:5 says, “Both of the sons also died.” What chance did they have? If we allow ourselves to have fun while reading the Bible, we can also enjoy the naked fishing story in John’s gospel. “What naked fishing
story?” you may be asking. Well, grab your Bible and read John 21:4-8 and try not to laugh out loud at Simon Peter’s sartorial choices. Humor is a part of the divine inspiration of Scripture and, I would argue, our willingness to laugh—and even laugh at ourselves—brings us closer to the Divine. So, have fun with it. Life is already serious enough.
“. . . allow ourselves to have fun while reading the Bible . . .”
dig deeper Many people read 2 Kings 2:19-25 and are appalled at Elisha’s actions. Try reading it with the idea that this is an exaggeration and a piece of dark humor. How might that change how you hear this story? Have you ever been bored listening to a sermon? If so, you may appreciate the story of Euthychus in Acts 20:7-12. Laugh a bit with this poor fellow who was literally bored to death. (Spoiler: everything turns out okay for him in the end.)
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C O M M U N baptisms
At Lord of Life, we baptize individuals at any age. For the next baptism class or to schedule a baptism, call the church office (763.420.5015). December 1
Zoey Rose Domaas Beckham Jay Elden Kyson Roe Elden Grace Addison Kajer
December 15
Brooks Soren Engstrom
December 22 Miles Boehm Evelyn AnnMarie Bryngelson Chase Delgehausen Cole Delgehausen Mila Isabel Randall December 28
Lydia Ellen Peterson Britta Lillian Segar
bereavements Prayers of sympathy for those grieving the loss of a loved one; may they be comforted in the promise of the resurrection. Kara Anderson and family at the death of her uncle Marilyn Dalchow and family at the death of her great grand-daughter and the death of her sister Carol Dell and family at the death of her husband Colleen Higgins and family at the death of her grandson Holly Moss and family at the death of her stepfather Lindi Lund and family at the death of her nephew Bev Mello and family at the death of her uncle Ann Olson with Andrew and Erin at the death of their husband and father Scott Sargent with Stacy and family at the death of their wife and mother Merle Waldron and family at the death of his aunt
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I T Y
L I F E
weddings For details on having your wedding at Lord of Life, visit lordoflife.org/weddings. To schedule a wedding, contact Wedding Supervisor Michelle Tomlinson (763.420.5015 x118).
welcome new members Bruce & Pam Anderson Todd Dahlvang Justin Dancs Pat & Carrie Elmes with Nate and Avery Marilyn Estrem Paul & Deborah Herlofsky Nathan & Maren Nodland with Haakon Nick & Brytten Rice with Theo and Peter Zack & Megan Ward Membership at Lord of Life means you make a commitment to be an active participant in congregational life. The expectation of not only new members but all members—is to worship regularly, grow in faith, serve others, and support the church and its programs financially. For more information, contact Katie Gartzke (katieg@lordoflife.org or 763.420.5015) or visit
lordoflife.org/membership. You are invited to become a part of the Lord of Life faith community.
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F I N D “So it’s February and you’ve got a case of the blues. Let’s start with the facts. Sadness is an emotion; seasonal affective disorder and depression are clinical illnesses. These two pages are not meant to be an answer to someone’s mental illness—however, they are intended to be helpful for those with a case of the blahs. Make a plan using some of the following ideas:
“When I am in the doldrums, I pick up my copy of 14,000 things to be happy about by Barbara Ann Kipfer. Joy comes from the little things and this books reminds me of that. My current page lists:
• Purchase fresh flowers just for yourself! Move them from room to room with you for a breath of springtime.
• Cracker baskets in restaurants
• Read through gardeners magazines and seed catalogs. Simply the thought of digging in fresh black soil may be just the ticket in thinking of a warm growing season. • Lack of sunlight may mean an inadequate supply of Vitamin D—a supplement can help. Check with your physician to see what your body may need. • Creativity and painting can be a great escape. Ask a friend and visit a paint “pub” to create your own masterpiece. • Shop ‘til you drop—or better yet simply walk in an indoor shopping center for 30 minutes. • Learn something new. Take a community education class or one of Lord of Life’s Learn with a Pastor classes (see Page 10)!” —Bev Mello, Editor/Design Specialist
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Y O U R
• “Last Train to Clarksville” by the Monkees (today’s earworm)
• Crayons without their “papers” • Dial tones (remember those?!) • Standing next to someone you love What five things will bring you joy today?” —Heidi Hustoft, Finance Executive Director
S I M P L E
J O Y S
“When I’m feeling extra cobwebby in the winter months, I
“An amazing treat in the middle of winter: fresh berries! They always make me smile.”
• Go to Como Conservatory. It’s warm, humid, and such a welcome change for my eyes to see green plants!
—Pastor Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren
• Peel myself off the couch and go the gym, darn it. I tell myself I can come back home after trying for 10 minutes if I hate it. By the time I’ve reached the 10-minute mark, usually I’ve worked up just enough endorphins to stick around. • Try a new indoor physical activity. Maple Grove has a “ninja warrior” gym, where adults and kids can climb and swing on different obstacles. Can Can Wonderland in St. Paul is a goofy indoor minigolf course. There are also escape rooms and spin classes and rock climbing gyms all over the Twin Cities. It sure beats staring at a screen!” —Brian Schroeder, Emerging Worship Director/Social Media Specialist
“Red socks are a simple joy in my life. They also take people mind’s away from my other shortcomings. Visitors to church don’t say, ‘the pastor has a bad haircut,’ they say, ‘did you see the pastor wears red socks.’ In general the red socks have brought a smile to people’s faces. After a funeral one day, a woman came up and told me how she was feeling pretty down until I crossed my legs and the red socks appeared below my robe. For her it was a reminder that one day she would be able to smile again. The other side of that coin was the bride who before a wedding asked me if I would wear different color socks because red would clash with the bridesmaid’s dresses. Folks have regularly given me red socks as gifts. Which is nice. Most recently, I have been the recipient of red socks with little grips on the bottom that people were forced to wear when they were patients in the hospital. The red socks indicated that they were considered a fall risk. My hope is that I will continue to wear red socks until the day I die and that the little grips will make sure that I don’t die from a fall down the stairs.” —Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren
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L E A R N
W I T H
A
P A S T O R
Feb rua ry 9 John, the Baptist. We know a few things about this man. He was Jesus’ cousin and about the same age. He was one of the people who knew how special Jesus was early on. John was faithful to God his whole life, but today he might be “labeled” for his chosen lifestyle. Bring your Bibles, and we will see what else the New Testament tells us about his short yet important life.
—Pastor Donna Rohrer
Feb rua ry 23 Lutherans and Evangelicals: Differences and Similarities Evangelicals are a specific group of Christians that have grown in influence over the past 50 years. They are Protestants who believe that salvation is achieved by a personal conversion to Jesus Christ. They describe this conversion as being “born again.” Evangelicals base their beliefs on the authority of Scripture and a conservative interpretation of the Bible. In recent decades Evangelicals have had a high profile in American politics. This study will examine the differences between Lutherans and Evangelicals. Bring your questions and observations.
—Pastor Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren
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LORD OF LIFE LUTHERAN CHURCH (ELCA) 7401 County Road 101, Maple Grove, MN 55311-4313 phone 763.420.5015 fax 763.420.7286 web lordoflife.org Visit lordoflife.org/staff for a full staff listing with photos. Prayer requests may be submitted to prayernetwork@lordoflife.org. Compass is a monthly ministry by Lord of Life Lutheran Church (ELCA) printed by Wallace Carlson Printing using ecofriendly inks. To receive Compass in the mail or electronically—call 763.420.5015 or email office@lordoflife.org. Copyright 2020 Lord of Life Lutheran Church
PASTORAL STAFF Rev. Dr. Joel Wight Hoogheem, Lead Pastor, joel@lordoflife.org Rev. Kaitlyn Forster, kaitlynf@lordoflife.org Rev. Dr. Karen Geisendorfer-Lindgren, Pastor Emeritus, karengl@lordoflife.org Rev. Peter Geisendorfer-Lindgren, Senior Pastor Emeritus, peter@lordoflife.org Rev. Karen Greimel, ksgreimel@lordoflife.org Rev. Charles ‘Chick’ Lane, chickl@lordoflife.org Rev. David McCarty, davem@lordoflife.org Rev. Donna Rohrer, donnar@lordoflife.org
Ash Wednesday, February 26 worship with Imposition of Ashes at 11am and 7pm. Soup lunch follows morning worship with soup supper prior to evening service ready at 5:30pm. Freewill offering for meals in Fellowship Hall. Saturdays at 5:30pm includes holy communion and music led by David Frank. Sundays at 8:30, 9:45, and 11am with holy communion on the first and third with music leaders David Frank at 8:30/9:45am and Brian Schroeder at 11am.
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WORSHIP/MUSIC SCHEDULE
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Photo credits include Lightstock and Unsplash.
Feb rua ry
Calendar of events
To connect with an adult ministry representative, contact Karen Nelson at 763.420.5015 x138 or karenn@lordoflife.org. To connect with a children, youth, and family representative, contact Chelsey Grandstrand at 763.420.5015 x128 or chelseyg@lordoflife.org. As event details are subject to change—for the most current dates, times, details, event locations, and registrations—please visit lordoflife.org. The Little Things: Jot and Tittle class with
SUNDAYS:
David Frank
High School Dinner Groups
2/18
Fellowship with the Fellas
SUNDAYS/MONDAYS:
David Frank
2/18
Job Transition Group
Crossways Bible Study
2/3
Cancer Support Groups
2/18
Pause for Prayer
2/4
Connect Life
2/20
FreedomWorks Meal - offsite
SUNDAYS/WEDNESDAYS:
2/4
Fellowship with the Fellas
2/20
OWLs Hindu Temple Visit - offsite
2/4
Pause for Prayer
2/22
Inspired Images
2/6
OWLs Valentine Party
2/23
Baptism Class
2/7
Kidpack for CROSS
2/23
High School Dinner Groups
2/8
Mittens on a Mission Sew-a-thon
2/23
Learn with Pastor Peter (see facing page)
2/8
Sharing and Caring Hands - offsite
2/24
Hope Lodge Volunteering - offsite
2/9
High School Dinner Groups
2/24
Military Family ministry meeting
2/9
Learn with Pastor Donna (see facing page)
2/24
The Food Group volunteering - offsite
2/10
Summer registration begins
2/26
Ash Wednesday worship at 11 am and 7pm
2/10
Hope Lodge Volunteering - offsite
2/26
Source MN Meal - offsite
2/10
NAMI Support Group
2/27
MOMSnext
2/12
345 @ LOL
2/13
MOMSnext
2/13
Prayer Shawl Ministry
2/1-8
Dominican Republic Mission Trip
2/2
Palestinian ELCA Pastor “Father K” film
2/2
The Little Things: Jot and Tittle class by
2/16
C3 Confirmation C3 Family Meal
TUESDAYS: Celebrate Recovery Grief Share Love to Paint
WEDNESDAYS: Bel Canto Rehearsal Canticle Choir Rehearsal Word for Women
THURSDAYS: Alleluia! and Joyful Noise Rehearsals
ONGOING SATURDAYS/SUNDAYS:
Ring and Sing
Church School
VARIOUS:
Worship
Men’s Bible Studies, various days/location
LSS on-site counselor
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Lord of Life Lutheran Church
Loved by God. Sent to Serve.
7401 County Road 101 Maple Grove, MN 55311-4313
NonProfit Org. U. S. Postage
PAID
Twin Cities, MN Permit No. 4665
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED TIME SENSITIVE MATERIAL
Name Address City, ST 00000
A S H
W E D N E S D A Y Feb rua ry 2 6 Worship with Imposition of Ashes at 11am and 7pm. Soup lunch follows morning worship. Soup supper precedes evening worship; ready at 5:30pm. Freewill offering in Fellowship Hall for meals.
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