PKKorner

Kal's Korner 3/8

Sun, 15 Mar 2020 15:30:55 GMT

Resurrection Life

The Word : 1 Corinthians 15 – Resurrection – Life

1 Cor. 15:20,23, “But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep…23 But each in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, then at his coming those who belong to Christ.” ESV

God’s Promise IX:

1 Corinthians 15:54, “Death is swallowed up in victory.” ESV

For the believer in Christ, this promise is one of the blocks in the foundation of our unshakable hope. The grave brings sorrow, for sure. But it need not bring despair. The tomb could not hold Jesus, and since Christ is in you, the tomb will not be able to hold you either.

I urge you, beg you, implore you to set your heart on this hope!

Hebrews 12:28, “Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken…”

Looking forward to connecting in worship with you at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church – Tracy CA this Sunday, March 8, 2020. Unshakable Hope Series. Worship times at 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

P.S. – Don’t Forget Daylight Saving Time – Spring Forward this coming weekend, Sunday March 8.

P.S.S. Here is a listing of all the promises we’ve looked at to date in our current series: Unshakable Hope – Building Our Lives on the Promises of God.

God’s Promise I:

Genesis 1:26, “Let us make man (mankind) in our image, after our likeness.” ESV

God’s Promise II:

Romans 16:20, “The God who brings peace will soon defeat Satan and give you power over him.” NCV

God’s Promise III:

Romans 8:17, “We are heirs-heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ.” NIV

God’s Promise IV:

James 5:16: “When a believing person prays, great things happen.” NCV

God’s Promise V:

1 Peter 5:5, ““God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” ESV

God’s Promise VI:

Hebrews 4:15, “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses…” ESV

God’s Promise VII:

Romans 8:34, “Jesus…is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.” ESV

God’s Promise VIII:

Romans 8:1, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” ESV

God’s Promise IX:

1 Corinthians 15:54, “Death is swallowed up in victory.” ESV

Kal's Korner 3/1

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 00:52:25 GMT

Resurrection Life

The Word : 1 Corinthians 15 – Resurrection – Life

God’s Promise IX:

1 Corinthians 15:54, “Death is swallowed up in victory.” ESV

I urge you, beg you, implore you to set your heart on this hope!

Hebrews 12:28, “Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken…”

Looking forward to connecting in worship with you at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church – Tracy CA this Sunday, March 8, 2020. Unshakable Hope Series. Worship times at 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

P.S. – Don’t Forget Daylight Saving Time – Spring Forward this coming weekend, Sunday March 8.

P.S.S. Here is a listing of all the promises we’ve looked at to date in our current series: Unshakable Hope – Building Our Lives on the Promises of God.

God’s Promise I:

Genesis 1:26, “Let us make man (mankind) in our image, after our likeness.” ESV

God’s Promise II:

Romans 16:20, “The God who brings peace will soon defeat Satan and give you power over him.” NCV

God’s Promise III:

Romans 8:17, “We are heirs-heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ.” NIV

God’s Promise IV:

James 5:16: “When a believing person prays, great things happen.” NCV

God’s Promise V:

1 Peter 5:5, ““God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” ESV

God’s Promise VI:

Hebrews 4:15, “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses…” ESV

God’s Promise VII:

Romans 8:34, “Jesus…is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.” ESV

God’s Promise VIII:

Romans 8:1, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” ESV

God’s Promise IX:

1 Corinthians 15:54, “Death is swallowed up in victory.” ESV

Kal's Korner 2/23

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 02:09:26 GMT

No Condemnation

The Word: Romans 8 – No Condemnation

Romans 8:33–34, “Who shall bring any charge against God's elect?

It is God who justifies. 34 Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one

who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of

God, who indeed is interceding for us.” ESV

I can only imagine what Kingdom work could be done in Jesus name if we did not live under a cloud of condemnation. The voices are loud from those around us…louder still our own self-condemning voices in our thoughts. Think deeply on the promise from Romans 8:1, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” ESV

Drink deeply from the well of Romans 8:33-34 (above).

So here we not only have the backward look to remind us that Christ has died and become our condemnation, but the forward look to remind us that, even though there is a judgment coming, and we will sometimes tremble at the thought of it, nevertheless, already now there is no condemnation.

You don’t have to wait for the final inheritance to know what this portion will be. “Who will bring a charge against God’s elect?” In that last day when your whole life — with all its Romans 7 imperfections is spread before you — this alone will be your hope: “It is God who justifies . . . it is Christ Jesus who died . . . who was raised . . . who intercedes.”

The verdict of the last judgment was given in AD 33: Not guilty! No condemnation. Already now . This is the heart of Christianity. This is the gift of God.

I’m so looking forward to connecting in worship with everyone at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church – Tracy CA this Sunday, March 1, 2020. Unshakable Hope Series – No Condemnation! Worship times at 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m .

P.S. Before that – Don’t miss Worship Together this coming Wednesday

Ash Wednesday Worship

7:00 p.m.

St. Paul's Lutheran Church

1635 Chester Dr

Tracy CA 95376

Main Sanctuary…

The Order of Evening Prayer – Compline

This will be a beautiful worship service of reflection, hymns, and prayer.

Don’t Miss

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 2/9

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 03:53:52 GMT

God's Gets You - Hebrews 4:15

The Word: God Gets You – Hebrews 4:15

Hebrews 4:15-16, “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” ESV

God’s Promise VI:

Hebrews 4:15, “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses…” ESV

God’s promise: He gets us. He understands our condition. And because He understands and has acted on our behalf…

We receive mercy and grace.
We are not left to languish on our own.
When we fall, we are not forgotten.
When we stumble, we are not abandoned.

It’s called the Incarnation and its stunning display of God’s grace and favor.

God, limited Himself to time and space and became one of us.

John 1:14, “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” ESV

Had Jesus come to earth only in the form of mighty God, we would respect Him but would never draw near to him. After all, how could God understand what it means to be human?

If Jesus were merely a human baby only, conceived by two biological parents, we would draw near to Him, but would never worship him. He would be no different that you and me.

But with Jesus we have both – God and man at the same time. Fully human. Fully God.

Because of his humanity we can draw near unafraid.

Because He is God, we also worship and praise him.

Looking forward to connecting in worship with you at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church – Tracy CA this Sunday, Feb. 16, 2020. Unshakable Hope Series. Worship times at 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 2/2

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 01:47:30 GMT

Grace for the Humble

The Word: 1 Peter 5:5-7 – Grace for the Humble

God’s Promise V –

1 Peter 5:5, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” ESV

Four Incentives for Humility

Verse 5b: “God opposes the proud…” ESV

Nothing could be worse than to have an infinitely powerful and holy God opposed to you.

Verse 5b: "God gives grace to the humble."

And nothing could be better than to have an infinitely powerful and wise God treat us graciously. He does that to the humble. The reason is not that humility is a performance of virtue that earns grace but that humility is a confession of emptiness that receives grace. Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Verse 6: God will use his mighty hand to exalt the humble: "Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you…” ESV

Verse 7: God will use his mighty hand to care for the humble: "Casting all your anxiety upon Him, because He cares for you." ESV

All of which can help us to be less anxious in our lives…so that we might be truly present with God and with others.

Looking forward to connecting in worship with you at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church – Tracy CA this Sunday, Feb. 9, 2020. Unshakable Hope Series. Worship times at 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 1/26

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 03:30:25 GMT

The Power of Prayer

The Word: James 5:16b-18 – The Power of Prayer

“…The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working. 17 Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed fervently that it might not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the earth. 18 Then he prayed again, and heaven gave rain, and the earth bore its fruit.” ESV

Well it’s been an incredible journey – Unshakable Hope – Building our Lives on the Promises of God. Here’s our journey so far…

God’s Promise I:

Genesis 1:26, “Let us make man (mankind) in our image, after our likeness.” ESV

God’s Promise II:

Romans 16:20, “The God who brings peace will soon defeat Satan and give you power over him.” NCV

God’s Promise III:

Romans 8:17, “We are heirs-heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ.” NIV

Coming Sunday, February 2, 2020 - God’s Promise IV:

James 5:16: “When a believing person prays, great things happen.” NCV

God hears our prayers as quickly as they are offered. Why”? Because they come from his child.

Will God do everything you ask? Perhaps. Or he will do more than you imagined. He alone knows what is best. Our role is to stand firmly on the promise…

James 5:16: “When a believing person prays, great things happen.” NCV

You are never without hope, because you are never without access to God through prayer.

Prayer is not the last resort. It is the first step.

Looking forward to connecting in worship with you at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church – Tracy CA this Sunday, Feb. 2, 2020. Unshakable Hope Series. Worship times at 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.

Pastor Kalvin L. Waetzig

Kal's Korner 1/19

Sat, 25 Jan 2020 22:55:10 GMT

We are heirs-heirs of God and co-heirs of Christ

The Word: Rom. 8:17, “We are heirs-heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ.” NIV

Dec. 31, 2012 — -- A homeless man found dead under a Wyoming overpass last week stood to inherit $19 million from his deceased adopted great aunt , a copper heiress net worth of $300 million fortune

The body of Timothy Henry Gray, 60, was found Dec. 27 underneath the overpass of Union Pacific Railroad in Evanston, Wyoming. Gray died of hypothermia, according to a coroner's report, and police said there is no sign of foul play.

"He appeared to have died from exposure," Lt. Bill Jeffers with the Evanston police told ABCNews.com. "He was just wearing a lighter jacket and jeans."

Jeffers said that Evanston police had spoken to Gray last winter as part of a welfare check, and at that point he had an apartment in the area. Gray said that he appeared to not have a domicile at the time of his death.

If you stood to inherit millions would you do all in your power to access that fortune? Yes? Really? Let’s talk about your inheritance.

Glistening in the jewel box of God’s promises is this guarantee of your inheritance:

God’s Promise III:

Romans 8:17, “We are heirs-heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ.” NIV

As believers in Jesus Christ and all he has done for us, we are named by God as heirs – co-heirs with Christ. All that is of Jesus is ours. Everything. Life. Salvation. Forgiveness. Love. Is ours.

In abundance.

Join us at St. Paul's Lutheran Church this coming Sunday, Jan. 26, 2020 for this powerful series – Unshakable Hope. Worship at 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

God bless you this day

In His great and precious promises

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 1/12

Sat, 25 Jan 2020 22:39:32 GMT

Stand on the Promises of God

The Word: Rom. 16:20, “The God who brings peace will soon defeat Satan

and give you power over him.” NCV

Join us at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Tracy CA this coming Sunday, Jan. 26, 2020 for this powerful series – Unshakable Hope. God’s Promise II – Overcoming Deception

Worship at 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

Stand on the promises of God regarding Satan’s influence:

Rom. 16:20, “The God who brings peace will soon defeat Satan

and give you power over him.” NCV

1 John 4:4, “God’s Spirit, who is in you, is greater than the devil,

who is in the world.” NCV

1 Cor. 10:13, “God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond

what you can bear.” NIV

James 4:7, “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” NIV

We are building our lives on the promises of God.

Because his Word is unbreakable, our hope is unshakable.

We do not stand on the problems of life or the pain of life.

We stand on the great and precious promises of God.

God bless you this week

In His Promises

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 1/5

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 04:31:49 GMT

God's Promise I: In God's Image

The Word: Genesis 1:26 - God’s Promise I: In God’s Image.

Ever felt small? Ever felt insignificant? Ever thought of yourself as unimportant? Ever been told you are a lost cause. Don’t listen to that.

You are God’s idea. You are God’s child. You are created in His image.

CEO or unemployed – it doesn’t matter.

Hot list or not list – doesn’t matter.

Blue-blooded or orphaned – doesn’t matter.

High IQ or low standing – doesn’t matter.

First string or cut from the squad – doesn’t matter.

According to the Bible you are good simply because God made you in his image. Period. You are precious to him because you bear a resemblance to him. You are His. God has created you and won you back through the sacrificial work of His One and Only Son, Jesus on the cross.

God’s Promise I: Genesis 1:26, “Let us make man (mankind) in our image, after our likeness.” ESV

You will only be satisfied in life when you engage in your role as an image bearer of God.

Join us at St. Paul's Lutheran Church for Unshakable Hope Week 1: Created in God’s Image for His Glory.

This Sunday, January 12, 2020

Worship at 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.

Rev. Kalvin L. Waetzig

Kal's Korner 12/15

Tue, 17 Dec 2019 07:52:34 GMT

Keep God at Arm's Length!

The Word: Colossians 2 – Keep God at Arm’s Length!

Col 2:2-3, “that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God's mystery, which is Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” ESV

I wonder what would have happened if the shepherds had had the attitude of non-connection the night the angels announced the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. The dialog might have sounded something like this…

“Wow, those angels were really great! I haven’t seen anything that bright since the 4th of July.”

Would they have said, “You know if I get the time, like maybe when I retire, I think I’ll do some follow-up on this thing that the Lord has told us about.”

Or they might have said, “I really don’t want to loose this shepherding job. It may not pay much, but it’s all I have. If the boss would ever find out we left the sheep, it would be over, over man, I tell you.”

“A baby? What’s to see in a baby?” Or

“Look, I’m really tired from shopping all day, you guys go ahead and let me know what you find.”

There are so many ways we open the door ever so slightly to God, but often it is not enough for Him to really shape our hearts and lives. More on this –

Sunday, December 22, 2019 @ St. Paul’s Lutheran Church

1635 Chester Drive

Tracy CA 95376

Worship at 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.

Give God your best this end of year and not because Santa is watching but because you know, truly know, and believe that God is good. His love us sure. His favor is without limit in the love of Jesus, our Savior and Lord. Share yourself and your gifts with joy and grace…as has been done for you…in Jesus. Amen.

Plan now to attend Christmas @ St. Paul’s

Christmas Eve: 5:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 11:00 p.m.

Christmas Day: 10:00 a.m.

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 12/8

Sun, 15 Dec 2019 16:08:17 GMT

God's Purposes at Christmas

The Word: Luke 2 – God’s Purposes at Christmas

Luke 2:13-14, “Suddenly a great company of the heavenly

host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men

on whom his favor rests." (NIV)

God has given us a clear look into what He has in mind for our focus each Christmas. One of His first purposes of Christmas is: Celebration. To paraphrase the angels’ announcement to the shepherds, “I bring you good news of great joy and it’s for everybody.” Good News!! Great Joy!! For Everyone!!

A second purpose of Christmas is: Salvation. Again the angels announced, “For unto you is born this day a savior and He’s Christ the Lord.” God’s promise from of old is now coming to pass. A Savior. Christ, literally meaning, anointed. Messiah. Lord – ruler for all the world.

The third purpose of Christmas is: Reconciliation. The angels finished with, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace good will toward men.” This third announcement calls us to respond. Peace. Good Will. This is a call to reconciliation.

I have a question for you. Where do you need peace in your life this Christmas?

Take some time to ponder your answer. Be honest with God. Be honest with yourself. Ask for God’s help to help you uncover some thoughts and feelings that you might have buried or denied over time.

This coming Sunday, we are going to talk about peace with God, peace with ourself, and peace with others. I tell you, “Don’t miss.”

See you Sunday

December 15, 2019

St. Paul's Lutheran Church

1635 Chester Dr.

Tracy CA 95376

Worship at 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.

Plan now to attend Christmas @ St. Paul’s

Christmas Eve: 5:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 11:00 p.m.

Christmas Day: 10:00 a.m.

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 12/1

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 01:49:34 GMT

The Perfect Christmas. “Been there done that” - God

The Word: 1 Timothy 3:16 – The Perfect Christmas. “Been there done that” - God

1 Tim 3:16, “Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of godliness:

He [Jesus] was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit,

seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.” ESV

If we could only send out the perfect cards, and get the perfect ornaments, and the perfect lights to put on the perfect tree which will stand in the perfect spot of our perfect house, surrounded by perfect presents for our perfect family members, so they might respond with a perfect “thank –you”…

Wow. The perfect Christmas is a lot of work.

I think I’ll stick with God’s perfect plan.

James 1:17, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.” ESV

Let me tell you all a secret. The Bible tells us that God’s original plan for humanity was and still is the perfect plan. There is no need for us to work up our lives and those around us into a lather to improve upon his perfect plan.

The perfect Christmas was the one God orchestrated over 2000 years ago. It doesn’t need improvement. It can’t be improved…as much as we’d like to, want to, or think we need to improve it. It was/is perfect. Jesus is the perfect gift.

What we celebrate each Christmas is not “a” perfect Christmas, rather we celebrate each Christmas “God’s” perfect Christmas.

Open that up this season @ St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. 1635 Chester Dr. Tracy CA 95376. Worship at 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.

Plan now to attend Christmas @ St. Paul’s

Christmas Eve: 5:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 11:00 p.m.

Christmas Day: 10:00 a.m.

Rev. Kalvin L. Waetzig

Kal's Korner 11/24

Wed, 27 Nov 2019 02:05:13 GMT

Give Thanks in All Circumstances. Really?!

The Word: 1 Thessalonians 5 – Give Thanks in All Circumstances. Really?!

1 Thess. 5:16-18, “Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing,

18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God

in Christ Jesus for you.” ESV

Excerpt from book, “The New Codependency” by Melody Beattie

Practice Gratitude

Expressing gratitude is a powerful practice.

It transforms (or helps neutralize) painful events. That doesn’t mean saying “thank you” only for receiving something good, although that’s part of it. This activity is about practicing gratitude for everything, as is. Some situations may be too much to express gratitude for or accept all at once (or maybe ever). But we can turn almost any experience around by practicing gratitude for what we experience or feel each moment, especially the moments we don’t like.

Giving thanks in all circumstances helps us understand that each moment is perfect as it is. Allow me to repeat that again. Giving thanks in all circumstances helps us understand that each moment is perfect as it is.

Awareness leads to acceptance

Acceptance takes us to surrender

Surrender brings power and peace.

1 Thess. 5:16-18, “Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” ESV

Don’t miss out on our Thanksgiving Tradition here at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church

1635 Chester Dr. Tracy CA 95376.

Wed. Nov. 27, 2019 – Thanksgiving Eve Pie Social – All quite delicious and some great fellowship. 6:00 p.m. in the Life Center
Wed. Nov. 27, 2019 – Thanksgiving Eve Worship – Powerful time in music, scripture, and prayer. Don’t miss. 7:00 p.m. in main sanctuary.
Sun. Dec. 1, 2019 – 1st Sunday in Advent – Preparing for the Real Event. Worship times at 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.

Ok Now – Just For Fun for Thanksgiving Humor

Seven Things to Be Thankful For

For automatic dishwashers. They make it possible to get out of the kitchen before the family comes back in for their after dinner snacks.
For husbands who attack small repair jobs around the house. They usually make them big enough to call in the professionals.
For the bathtub – the one place the family sometimes allows Mom some time to herself
For children who put away their things and clean up after themselves. They’re such a joy you hate to see them go home to their own parents.
For gardening. It’s a relief to deal with the dirt outside the house for a change.
For teenagers. They give parents an opportunity to learn a second language.
For smoke alarms. They let you know when the turkey is done!

Kal's Korner 11/17

Fri, 22 Nov 2019 21:23:00 GMT

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The Word: 2 Corinthians 8 – Advent Conspiracy – Love All

2 Cor. 8:9, “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ,

that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor,

so that you by his poverty might become rich.” ESV

Christmas is our chance to move closer to those in crises not further away. In short, it is an opportunity unlike any other time of the year to love as we have been loved. In practical terms, our love must include caring for those in need.

Over and over we see Jesus teaching that God is on the side of those impoverished, even when no one else is. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus raises the status of those the world mistreats and marginalizes—people who are deemed hopeless and beyond help. Jesus is clear: he expects his followers to do the same. There is a close connection between how we treat each other and how we treat God. In Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus says…

Matt. 25:40, “And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers,you did it to me.’” ESV

God takes these acts of love (or moments of rejection) very personally. And why wouldn’t he? He was born among those of less affluence. He lived as one outsider. He died alone.

Join us for the final message of Advent Conspiracy – 2019…Four Actions That Can Still Change the World. This week Part IV: Love All – Making a Difference Here and Now.

Worship at 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.

St. Paul's Lutheran Church

1635 Chester Dr

Tracy CA 95376

Kal's Korner 11/10

Fri, 22 Nov 2019 20:48:08 GMT

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The Word: John 1:14 – Jesus – God Incarnate

John 1:14, “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” ESV

Because of the incarnation, this infinite God becomes more tangible, more approachable, more (though not completely) comprehensible. It is because of Jesus that we know who the Eternal God of the universe is and what he’s really like. This calls out to us relationship!

It’s what we celebrate at Holy Communion. God has come as a fulfillment of His promise – and that gives us real hope.

N.T. Wright, “Jesus exploded into the life of ancient Israel—the life of the whole world, in fact –

not as a teacher of timeless truths,
nor as a great moral example,
but as the one through whose life, death, and resurrection God’s rescue operation was put into effect, and the cosmos turned its great corner of restoration at last.”

Apart from God’s gift of his very own self, we would never fully know the depths to which we are loved or the lengths to which God can be trusted.

Christmas celebrated at its best involves

Worshipping fully
Spending less
Giving more (especially relationally)

More on this Sunday, November 17, 2019 @ St. Paul’s Lutheran Church

1635 Chester Dr. Tracy CA 95376 Worship at 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.

Upcoming dates:

Sunday, Nov. 17, 2019 – St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Annual Membership Meeting

Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 – St. Paul’s Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon

Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 – Opportunity to Serve @ Community Thanksgiving Dinner. Portuguese Hall @ 5:00 p.m. Turkey donations needed and to volunteer call or text to 209-815-1101.

Kal's Korner 11/3

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 19:47:29 GMT

Giving Generously!

The Word: Philippians 4 – Giving Generously

Philippians 4:14-16, “Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble.

15 And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of

the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership

with me in giving and receiving, except you only. 16 Even in Thessalonica

you sent me help for my needs once and again.” ESV

The Advent Conspiracy theme this coming week is:

“Four Habits That Can Still Change our World II - Spend Less.”

This is not a sermon on being miserly. It is about living generously.

Like Jesus, C.S. Lewis believed that the best way to break money’s power is to give it away. At the same time C.S. Lewis shrinks from suggesting a rigid formula for giving. “I do not believe one can settle how much we ought to give,” he wrote. Lewis continued:

“I am afraid the only safe rule is to give more than we can spare. In other words, if our expenditure on comforts, luxuries, amusements, etc., is up to the standard common among those with the same income as our own, we are probably giving away too little. If our charities do not at all pinch or hamper us, I should say they are too small. There ought to be things we should like to do and cannot do because our charitable expenditure excludes them.” – C.S. Lewis. Mere Christianity

Our focus this Advent/Christmas shifts from entertainment to necessity. We begin to actively seek how God may be calling us to bless the needs of those around us and the needs of those in our world.

More on this Sunday, November 10, 2019 @ St. Paul’s Lutheran Church

1635 Chester Dr. Tracy CA 95376 Worship at 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.

God bless your week

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 10/27

Wed, 30 Oct 2019 19:30:51 GMT

Advent Conspiracy

The Word: Isaiah 6 – Advent Conspiracy

Isaiah 6:1-3, “In the year that King Uzziah died I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and the

train of his robe filled the temple.

2 Above him stood the seraphim. Each had six wings:

with two he covered his face, and

with two he covered his feet, and

with two he flew.

3 And one called to another and said:

“Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts;
the whole earth is full of his glory!”ESV

Isn’t it ironic that the time of year when focusing on Christ should be the easiest we find is often quite challenging. This verse could express our real focus.

Matt. 15:8, “This people honors me with their lips,

but their heart is far from me.” ESV

I’m inviting you to join me in this year’s, Advent Conspiracy. It is a call to recognize the incarnate presence of God’s Son, Jesus and worship Him fully – no matter how strongly the cultural demands of Christmas pull at us. The transformation of our hearts begun with Jesus so many years ago is no different today than it was the day He was born – the source of joy, peace, hope, purpose, and significance has not changed.

Advent Conspiracy Sundays @ St. Paul’s Lutheran Church

8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.

Nov. 3, 2019 – Worship Fully

Nov. 10, 2019 – Give More

Nov. 17, 2019 – Spend Less

Nov. 24, 2019 – Love All.

Finally some advance planning

This Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019 - St. Paul’s – Craft Fair

Sunday, Nov. 17, 2019 – Membership Meeting

St. Paul’s Lutheran Church ca. 11:15 a.m.

Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2019 – Thanksgiving Eve @ St. Paul’s

6:00 p.m. – Pie Social

7:00 p.m. – Thanksgiving Eve Worship

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 10/13

Wed, 16 Oct 2019 23:12:56 GMT

Open hands in a closed fisted world II

The Word: Matthew 6

Matthew 6:24, “No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.” ESV

I shared this story in the message this past Sunday @ St. Paul's Lutheran Church.

Custom of the Empty Hands -- Bill Lokey --- OnSite 2019

It is said there was an ancient custom in Nepal that if a man loses something precious to him the rest of the tribe comes together, enters his home and takes something else from him as well. Through the centuries this custom was lost to most and thought of as cruel and barbaric to others who did not understand its origin. One day a man who was an old resident from that tribe, white-haired, but full of wisdom, was found and asked about the strange custom. He said his ancestors many generations ago had been true to pass down the secret of their tradition and its blessing through their family and he explained the mystery as follows:

“Take this small piece of bread in one hand and this grain in the other. Hold them out to be seen. If suddenly the precious grain is stripped from the one hand the other hand clenches tightly around the bread to make sure he does not lose it. There stands the man cursing this one hand that has lost his treasure bringing shame upon his whole family while his other hand grips the bread tightly to ensure he keeps what little he has left. With clenched fist, he threatens anyone who would get close enough to take away what is rightfully his. What does he look like now? He looks like a man staring through eyes of suspicion at anyone who approaches him. A man cursing his misfortune, his shriveled hand, and the many others he has learned to blame. This man crushes the hope of others in need and mutilates the bread in that same fist. The blessing to this ancient custom can only now be understood.”

When a precious loss occurs the other hand clings to what is left and the heart becomes either lifeless or closed. When the tribe and their chief came to his house and emptied the other hand the man fell to the ground in anguish with open hands … open hands now able to receive … to receive from all the other tribe members who had experienced loss before him. While the man with open hands, on his knees, blinded with tears was without strength, the fellow tribe people passed by filling his hands with baskets of bread, grain, jars of oil, tools for repairing, stones from a fireplace, carved shingles for a roof, and a place in their midst to call home. Yes, what he had was taken away so he had room in his hands and his heart to receive abundance.

-- Bill Lokey --- OnSite 2019

Take some time right now to apply the truths of this story to your own life right now. Reflect, Confess, and rejoice in Renewal by God’s Spirit.

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

P.S. See you this coming Sunday, October 20, 2019 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church

Worship @ 8:30 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.

Kal's Korner 10/6

Sat, 12 Oct 2019 15:48:45 GMT

Living with an Open Hand in a Closed Fisted World…Open Heart, Open Hand, Open Heritage

The Word: Joshua 24

Joshua 24:14-15, ““Now therefore fear the Lord and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness. Put away the gods that your fathers served beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord. 15 And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve…But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” ESV

This coming Sunday, October 13, 2019, We will begin a series entitled, Living with an Open Hand in a Closed Fisted World…Open Heart, Open Hand, Open Heritage. I’ve been praying for God to lead you and me in the fullness of life in Jesus.

Here’s one application. I've heard and said this prayer…“I let you down God….”

How many times have we thought this? The real twist here is this: such thinking can border on idolatry. We think of ourselves more highly than we ought, thinking that we are like some sort of super-hero holding God up. The truth of the bible is that if there is any holding on and holding up it is God doing the holding on and holding up!! Read and memorize this verse from the prophet Isaiah.

Isa 41:10, “fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” ESV

His hold is sure. His grip is strong. His love is certain - in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior.

See you Sunday, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church – Worship at 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 9/22

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 01:28:34 GMT

You are no longer strangers and aliens, but citizens!

The Word: Ephesians 2

Eph 2:19, “So then you are no longer strangers and aliens,[sojourners] but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God…” ESV

At St. Paul’s, we believe your “relational connections” in the Greek N.T. = Oikos is the 8 to 15 people that God has purposefully and providentially placed in your life. These are the people who know you best, the people you influence by what you do everyday, your sphere of influence. They are not there by accident, but are there for you to demonstrate and announce the love of God by loving them in practical ways, and being ready to give a reason for the hope you have in Jesus Christ.

Let us be honest, we hide from sincere, caring, touching relationships by using the sterile electronic environment. We can touch more people, and faster, but there is little chance that we will be infected with the germ of true connection. If that were to happen, I might have to alter my schedule to be “with” someone for an extended period of time and incubate relationship!! It takes time and proximity to get infected…It’s time to take up the call to discipleship and to do so in the way Jesus modeled it…face to face, walking alongside. We do so…Eph 2:20, “…built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone.”

Come and hear more this Sunday at St. Paul's Lutheran Church – Sept. 29, 2019.

Worship @ 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

P.S. Don’t forget to register for Family Night Launch set to begin Wed. Evening, Oct. 2, 2019. 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Kal's Korner 9/15

Fri, 20 Sep 2019 06:18:38 GMT

The grace that is ours through Jesus Christ and the price that was paid for us

The Word: Romans 8:37

Rom 8:37, “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” ESV

Dietrich Bonhoeffer writes about the grace that is ours through Jesus Christ and the price that was paid for us. He writes about the distinction between the cost and grace.

“It is costly because it costs a man his life, and it is grace because it gives a man the only true life. It is costly because it condemns sin, and grace because it justifies the sinner. Above all, it is costly because it cost God the life of his Son: "ye were bought at a price," and what has cost God much cannot be cheap for us. Above all, it is grace because God did not reckon his Son too dear a price to pay for our life, but delivered him up for us. Costly grace is the Incarnation of God.” Dietrich Bonhoeffer, The Cost of Discipleship

Come and hear more this Sunday at St. Paul's Lutheran Church. Worship @ 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.

God bless you this day.

With victory and peace

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 9/1

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 19:47:07 GMT

Risk - Truth

The Word: John 8 – Risk/Truth

John 8:36, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” ESV

Risks - Truth

To laugh is to risk appearing the fool

To weep is to risk being called sentimental

To reach out to another is to risk involvement

To expose feelings is to risk showing your true self

To place your ideas and your dreams before the crowd

is to risk being called naïve.

To love is to risk not being loved in return

To live is to risk dying

To hope is to risk despair

To try is to risk failure

But risks must be taken, because the greatest risk in life is to risk nothing.

The person who risks nothing, does nothing, has nothing, is nothing,

and becomes nothing.

John 8:36, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” ESV

Knowing we are loved, forgiven, set free to live our lives to the fullness of God’s plan for every relationship. In such a world vulnerability and risk are not signs of weakness, they are signs of strength. I’d love to hear about your story of risk.

On other fronts:

Please watch for and give an awesome St. Paul’s/Bella Vista welcome to Mrs. Marybeth Muldowney. Marybeth is a brand new addition to St. Paul’s/Bella Vista staff. Her official role is Director of Children’s and Youth Ministry. Marybeth’s husband is the new Associate Pastor at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church in Stockton CA.

Finally :

Will you also watch for, pray over, and pursue serving in some fashion among the St. Paul's/Bella Vista community. Attend the Music Ministry Meeting, coming up Sunday, Sept. 15. Attend the Family Night Launch, coming Wednesday, Oct. 2.

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 8/18

Tue, 20 Aug 2019 19:05:57 GMT

Don't Grow Weary of Doing Good!

The Word: Galatians 6:9-10

“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap,

if we do not give up. 10 So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.” ESV

Here’s a blog that was written by the Clinical Director, Bill Lokey. He writes about the power encouragement can bring to another life.

At the adventure of a new career calling, Laurie’s daughter Stephanie and her husband Mike moved here with their four children from Little Rock, AR last summer. While they look for a house in our area they moved in with us in our renovated upstairs bringing us from a family of 2 to a family of 8 overnight! (I think we are all a little surprised at how well it is going and how we’ll miss each other when they are gone.) Anyway, one evening last October we accompanied them to look at one of many houses for sale they have viewed with a realtor. We pulled up to this warm brick house with over an acre yard in an older Spring Hill neighborhood that’s a great location. We were excited at what we were seeing and that it was in their price range. Upon opening the front door the smell was the first thing to hit you. Old stained carpet still held the odors of pets that had not been house broken. The house was cut up with very small rooms, oddly high kitchen counter tops, surrounded by cracked and peeling casement windows. It was terrible. I could not get back outside fast enough to breathe fresh air and took the kids as an excuse. Mike emerged next in about 15 minutes where we stood speechless for a moment. I asked the pregnant question, “So, what do you think?” He looked at the ground shaking his head and said, “I saw the look in Stephanie’s eyes. She can see so much potential and all I can see is work.” I chuckled, he gasped one last breath, and then stepped back inside. When they emerged a half hour later Stephanie’s hope had ignited Laurie’s vision and they were excited, discussing possibilities and repeating the phrase, “good bones.” The house was theirs.

As the work began we ripped up the carpet to discover rare heart of pine floors. Walls were torn down to recreate a large kitchen and a spacious master bedroom with fireplace. Exposed beams are presently being covered with redwood. The house is turning out to be beautiful and incredibly well built! Stephanie and Laurie saw the unseen when the rest of us were ready to move on…quickly. Restoration and beauty are unfolding all because one person saw potential and what was underneath. Stephanie looked past the problems and loved what was there. I am grateful that a few people did that with me. When my life was a wreck and I seemed hopeless there were some who saw past the problems and loved what they saw underneath. Those people gave me hope that God looked at me that way.

Today when you and I see someone who might not seem to matter, who won’t be of benefit to us or get us better connected, look beneath the smelly carpet and through their broken windows to see the person whose heart likely needs to hope that he or she matters. It may be the vision that changes not only their life but ours as well.

Bill Lokey

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 8/11

Tue, 13 Aug 2019 03:03:58 GMT

Cast all your care on Him, for He cares for you!

The Word: 1 Peter 5:7,

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” NIV

See if you can relate to this fellow who came to his pastor one day and said, “Pastor, I’m so stressed out! … my work, my family, my kids. I have quite a list of things.” They talk about all this and then all of a sudden the fellow says, “I guess what my real problem is I just don’t love God enough. That’s why I worry so much.”

That’s the trap we fall into. Always thinking if only we’d prayed more! Trusted more! Believed more! That is not the problem. The problem is NOT that we don’t love God enough. Our problem is we don’t realize how much God loves us.”

Our problem is not that we don’t love God enough.

Our problem is we don’t realize how much God loves us.”

Hear more this coming Sunday, August 18, 2019 @ St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Tracy CA. Worship at 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.

ON OTHER FRONTS…

Thank you all so much for your prayers for me in my time away this past week at what I’m calling, “Human Heart Camp.” Powerful and Blessed and Thankful and at Rest in the love of the Father and his calling for my life.

ALSO Fervent Prayers…

Roger Cunning asked me to share with you his diagnosis of cancer. Many tests have been and continue to be conducted this week to determine the extent. (The Cunnings served here at St. Paul’s for many many years in worship leadership and all kinds of technology – sound and audio. They moved to Del Web a number of years ago and are currently assisting with worship at United Lutheran Church in Manteca.) Pray for Roger and Elizabeth as well as so many of our church family listed below in this enews.

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 7/28

Tue, 30 Jul 2019 21:55:22 GMT

Gratitude

The Word: Gratitude

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” ESV

Jesus expressed His gratitude for what God had done in His life. It says
Luke 22:17, 19, when He was at the table with the twelve, He “took the cup and when he had given thanks …and He took break and when He had given thanks broke it…” and gave it to them.

He gave thanks. This is probably the one sin that is the root of so many other sins – ingratitude. If we are to learn from Jesus to pray our prayers should be filled with thanksgiving.

In Philippians 4:6, “…but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving make your requests known to God.

When we ask, be grateful at the same time.

1 Thess. 5:16-18, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances ; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” ESV

Giving thanks is not just when life is smooth-sailing. The Bible says, “give thanks in ALL circumstances.” Not only is this a good idea. It is God’s idea. It is God’s will for us.

In Christ Jesus … for you!”

Amazing

Amazing Grace.

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

P.S. Don’t miss out on the sermon message this coming Sunday, August 4, 2019.

St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 1635 Chester Dr. Tracy, CA 95376 @ 8:30 a.m.

or 10:00 a.m.

P.S.S. – Pray also for opening of BVCA school this Thursday, August 1, 2019.

God bless you and your family

this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 7/14

Mon, 15 Jul 2019 21:46:25 GMT

"Lord, teach us to Pray"

The Word – Luke 11:1, “Lord, teach us to pray”

In Luke 11:1, the disciples observe Jesus praying and when he had finished the disciples asked him this question, “Lord, teach us to pray.” There must have been something about Jesus that caused this disciple to ask this question.

Is there something in your life right now that would cause you to ask Jesus the same question? “Lord, teach me to pray.”

This question will not be a one time request but…each day…”Lord, teach us to pray.” “Lord, teach us…”

There are 17 references to Jesus praying and most of them are in the book of Luke. Let’s have the Lord teach us…

For the next two weeks … “Lord Teach Us To Pray…”

Luke 3:21-22 says, “Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, the heavens were opened, 22 and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form, like a dove; and a voice came from heaven, “You are my beloved Son;with you I am well pleased.” ESV

The setting here was Jesus’ baptism and this is the first recorded example of Jesus’ praying and we see in the book of Luke three results of His praying.

Heaven opened up.
The Holy Spirit came down.
The Father spoke.

These are three results when we make contact with God in our prayers. Symbolically, heaven opens up and we receive God’s blessing. The Holy Spirit fills our lives. And the Father speaks to us.

Join us this Sunday, July 21, 2019 and next Sunday, July 28, 2019 for this series: “Lord, teach us to pray.” St. Paul's Lutheran Church. 1635 Chester Drive. Tracy CA 95376. Worship at 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m. “Lord, teach me to pray.”

God bless your week

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Don’t forget farwell bbq/swim/music for Claire McKercher at the Waetzig home. 1460 Divine Lane Tracy CA 95376. Sunday, July 28, 2019. 12 Noon to 3 p.m. and then some.

Kal's Korner 6/30

Wed, 03 Jul 2019 01:09:09 GMT

Freedom and then Some!

The Word: Romans 8:1-2 – Freedom and Then Some

Romans 8:1-2: “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death” (Romans 8:1-2).

In a few days the United States will celebrate its 243rdYear of Independence, July 4, 2019. I share with you this short blog from Bob Hostetler –

Six Ways to Pray On the 4th of July

By Bob Hostetler

1. Give thanks for your freedom and favor.
What a blessing it is to enjoy the freedoms we too often take for granted and the blessings that attend us in this country.

2. Pray for those who protect our freedom.
Remember those who fought and died for our freedom in the past and those soldiers, sailors, police and others whose service protects us today.

3. Pray for our nation’s leaders.
Paul, the early church leader, wrote, “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior” (1 Timothy 2:1-3).

4. Pray for the safety of those who gather to celebrate the holiday.
In this day and age, any large gathering presents security challenges large and small. Ask God to grant wisdom and watchfulness to planners and hosts of events—as well as the usual need for caution in handling fireworks and other seasonal hazards.

5. Remember those in oppressive or disadvantaged circumstances.
As we express gratitude for our freedoms, we should also remember those who live in different circumstances where war, oppression, discrimination and injustice divide and dominate. Even as you rejoice in your blessings, cry out to God for those who suffer.

6. Find new freedom in forgiveness.
There is no bad time to forgive someone but there are few better times than on a day when we celebrate freedom. Take a moment to consider whether there is someone you can forgive or something in your life that you can let go. Why not include in this year’s celebration a new level of freedom by shaking off the shackles of unforgiveness or regret—perhaps even seeking God’s forgiveness or forgiving yourself, and experiencing the truth of

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 6/23

Tue, 25 Jun 2019 01:46:11 GMT

Marriage - It's Not Just a Good Idea - It's God's Great Idea - Genesis 2

The Word: Marriage – It’s Not Just a Good Idea – It’s God’s Great Idea - Genesis 2

On this very day, June 24, 1983, Lori and I said to one another, “I do.” “I do.” These two words set us on a journey that has truly been blessed by God: Love! Laughter! Loss! Life!

36 Years of marriage and counting!!
Three awesome children and their spouses
Three awesome grandchildren (and one more on “her” way, due Oct. 2019)
Over 33 Years serving the Lord in full-time pastoral and teaching church work

(Lori began her teaching career 36 years ago in St. Louis, MO and Pastor Kal was ordained on July 20, 1986 at his home church in Great Falls, Montana 33 years ago)

Genesis 2:18, 21-24, “Then the Lord God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper corresponding to him.”….21 So the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and while he slept took one of his ribs and closed up its place with flesh.22 And the rib that the Lord God had taken from the man he made] into a woman and brought her to the man. 23 Then the man said,

“This at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called Woman,
because she was taken out of Man.”

24 Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” ESV

Marriage – It’s Not Just a Good Idea – It’s God’s Great Idea

Given the way creation unfolds, how it builds to ever higher and higher works of art, light/darkness, water/land, sun/moon, animals/plants can there be any doubt that Eve is the crown of creation? She is not an afterthought. Eve is not a nice addition like an ornament on a tree. She is God's final touch, his finest work. She fills a place in the world nothing and no one else can fill and so it is with every wife God has given every husband.

And God calls man/husbands to love her. It is not hard. She is a gift. She is beauty. She is a million sunrises and a million sunsets.

Her husband is loved by her through her respect for him. He is not loved due to demanding domination, rather the wife’s respect for her husband comes out of the reservoir of love God has placed in the woman’s heart. This love comes naturally by design and is best received by man through respect.

This respect shows up when there are no others. When there is no one else – not even the man himself in his own thinking. When everyone else thinks the man/the husband not worthy or good or does not have all that it takes – there will be one standing there believing that he is – that he is a gift, that he is good, that he does have all that it takes to protect, to provide, to love.

And respected, the husband responds in the language of the woman – he loves her in great acts and small. She thinking and knowing she is beauty to him and assured there is no other, but her beloved.

To all the marriage anniversaries in June, to every marriage January to December for that matter. Such is God’s gift to each husband and wife. To each who abide in the life given through the Jesus. Love. Respect. Life.

Amen.

P.S. Don’t miss this coming Sunday at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church

3rd Sunday after Pentecost – Pastor Kal on Galatians 5… The goal is not just to have faith IN Jesus, but to have the faith OF Jesus.

See you at 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

Finally – Keep prayers going for healing for Pastor Kal (back surgery), and for staff and church leaders at conferences this week.

God bless

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 6/16

Thu, 20 Jun 2019 21:52:02 GMT

"But if you are led by the Spirit"

The Word: Gal. 5:18, “But if you are led by the Spirit…” ESV

In normal religion, the motivation for morality, godliness, and tolerance is fear-based. In gospel Christianity, the motivation is a dynamic of love…

To be “led by the Spirit…” is to change, and be changed, to be the people we want to be.

The goal is not just to have faith IN Jesus, but to have the faith OF Jesus.

The Spirit-fuelled development of Christ-like character is liberating, because it brings us closer to being the people we were designed to be, the people our Spirit-renewed hearts want to be.

It is not about traits or characteristics. It is about a change much deeper than that. Think about an apple tree. Do the apples on the tree make it alive? If you tied apples to a dead trees branches, that wouldn’t make it alive! The apples don’t give life; they are a sign that the tree is alive. But the life produces the fruit; not the other way around.

We tend to see gifts as the sign that the Spirit’s work is in someone. But the Bible warns us of being white washed tombs. Judas and King Saul were used by God’s Spirit to prophesy, do miracles, ….but they did not have Spirit-renewed hearts.

To be truly led by the Spirit is to grow “the fruit of the Spirit.” Gal. 5:22.

To see if God is truly dwelling in you is to see growth in the fruit of the Spirit. The first part of that fruit, Paul states is “love;” which he tells to another church in Corinth which was over-desiring other particular spiritual gifts:

1 Cor. 13:1-3, “If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3 If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing.” ESV

The Spirit is a living person, who glorifies and magnifies the work of Jesus. Once we specifically find the particular false beliefs of our flesh, which generate the over desires and lead us to sin, we must replace them with Christ.

This is not just an intellectual exercise. We must worship Christ, with the help of the Holy Spirit, adoring him until our hearts find him more beautiful than the object we felt we had to have.

Don't miss the next two week series on the Book of Galatians

Sunday, June 23, 2019 – Galatians chapter 3 – Summer Vicar Joshua Timm

Sunday, June 30, 2019 – Galatians chapter 5 – Pastor Kal Waetzig

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 6/9

Wed, 19 Jun 2019 03:06:38 GMT

A Call to Love and Prayer - Father's Day 2019

The Word: Ephesians 1:17 - A Call to Love and Prayer – Father’s Day 2019

Ephesians 1:17, “…that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, 18 having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you…” ESV

I’m planning for an awesome Father’s Day Sunday. Don’t miss. Here’s just a teaser sample from an anonymous note from an author from Spokane Community College. He has stolen silently into his young son’s room and has this conversation over his sleeping son…

“It is a feeble atonement; I know that you would not understand these things which I have told you in the waking hours. Tomorrow I will be a real daddy! I will chum with you, suffer when you suffer and laugh when you laugh. I will bite my tongue when impatient words come. I will keep saying as if it were a ritual: "He is nothing but a boy--a little boy."

I am afraid I have visualized you as a man. Yet as I see you now, son, crumpled and weary in your bed. I see that you are still a baby. Yesterday you were in your mother's arms, your head on her shoulder. I have asked too much, too much!”

To all fathers... press on in the love of your heavenly Father fulfilled for us through God’s gift of the living Lord Jesus. Amen.

See you all this Sunday, June 19, 2019 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 1635 Chester Dr. Tracy CA 95376. Worship at 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.

P.S. God poured out His blessing over our trip to the mission in Sarajevo, Bosnia. More to come.

P.S.S.

Pray for God’s kingdom work in Bosnia and in Tracy, CA.

Pray for Peggy Haase as she heads out for several months to Ghana. Pray for Joel Rockemann, ½ way into his intense onsite theological studies on site at Concordia University, Irvine CA (June 3-21).

Pray for staffing for St. Paul’s. Music ministry. Children & Youth Ministry.

Pray for VBS Week July 15-19.

Kal's Korner 5/19

Wed, 22 May 2019 02:16:50 GMT

A Prayer for our Nation - Memorial Day 2019

The Word Psalm 85 – A prayer for our Nation Memorial Day 2019

Psalm 85:4-7, “Restore us again, O God of our salvation,
and put away your indignation toward us!
5 Will you be angry with us forever?
Will you prolong your anger to all generations?
6 Will you not revive us again,
that your people may rejoice in you?
7 Show us your steadfast love, O Lord,
and grant us your salvation.” ESV

On this Memorial Day Sunday, 2019, I want to direct your attention to Psalm 85 . I want to use the short 13 verses of this Psalm to direct our hearts to thanksgiving and praise for the faithful work of God in our nation, also to give thanks for the sacrifice of those who’ve given their lives to enable us to live in the freedoms we have in this great country.

We pray fervently not just for freedom as a nation but for the righteousness of our nation as we endeavor to prepare hearts in our community to connect with Jesus for Life.

In honor of Memorial Day, 2019 here is the most popular text to the tune of Taps

“Day is Done”

“Day is done, Gone the sun,
From the lake, From the hill,
From the sky.
All is well, Safely rest,
God is nigh.”

Join us at St. Paul's Lutheran Church

1635 Chester Dr

Tracy CA 95376

Sunday, May 26, 2019 @ 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

God bless your day/days

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 5/12

Thu, 16 May 2019 21:06:33 GMT

Times of Transition

The Word: Isaiah 43 – Times of Transition

Change always involves transition.

The time in transition in life can be both exhilarating and exhausting. Some of the transition process we can be very comfortable with. Other aspects are not so comfortable.

What’s scary about change is the time in transition.

Like the trapeze artist in the circus. Person at beginning has a good grip on the bar. And at the end has a great grip on the second bar. It’s the time in between that is scary… The transition is the time they are flying through the air not holding on to anything.

This is true with every time of change. There will always be a time when you are asking yourself, “Will I make it?” “Can I make it?”

God encourages us to “hold on” in all times of transition.

Isaiah 43:16-19

Thus says the Lord, who makes a way in the sea, a path in the mighty waters, 17 who brings forth chariot and horse, army and warrior; they lie down, they cannot rise, they are extinguished, quenched like a wick: 18 “Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. 19 Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. ESV

And Times in Transition are Not Always Easy…

“For a jeweler sits as he refines precious metals, such as silver. He puts the silver in the crucible, puts the fire to it, but does not then walk away, leaving it on its own. No, he sits and watches it, being careful not to set the fire too hot, which may ruin the metal, nor set it too low, which will not allow the heat to do its work to burn away the dross and impurities. He sits carefully watching the metal, all the while adjusting the fire to exactly the right temperature. And when does he know it is perfectly pure? When the jeweler can see his face in the metal, for it reflects his likeness.”

(Reimann, J., ed. Morning By Morning: The Devotions of Charles Spurgeon. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2008).

You will not want to miss this Sunday at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Tracy CA

Worship at 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. “What to Do In Times of Transition”

Don’t forget Membership Meeting immediately following the 10:00 a.m. worship.

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner

Wed, 08 May 2019 20:42:23 GMT

Week of May 5-11, 2019

The Word: John 15:9-17

John 15:9,12, “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you.

Abide in my love….This is my commandment, that you love one another

as I have loved you.” ESV

Dear friends

I cant’ wait for us to gather this coming Sunday, Mother’s Day 2019. Here are some thoughts to spur you on to wholeness in life and faith…

We believe that we are hurt when we don’t RECEIVE love.

But that is not what hurts us.

Our pain comes when we do not GIVE love.

The world has led us to believe that our well-being is dependent on other people loving us. The Lord turns this all upside down. The truth is:

Our well-being is dependent on OUR giving

The greatness of the Lord’s love is that He has given it first. This greatness is not dependent on His receiving it from us. This is a call to loving all around us in the power of God. It is not what comes back to us, but about what goes out that is a measure of our life. Jesus said…

John 15:12, “Beloved love one another as I have loved you.” (NIV)

More on this Sunday, May 12, 2019 – Mother’s Day @ St. Paul’s Lutheran Church

Worship at 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

God bless you this day

In the love of God

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 4/28

Fri, 03 May 2019 22:23:44 GMT

Week of 4/28-5/4/2019

The Word: 1 Corinthians 8

1 Cor 8:6

“yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist…” ESV

We cross over a line into spiritual maturity when in our prayer we ask not so much things from God or a favor from God, but when we ask to see God himself. To ask to see his glory is to ask to see God at work in your life and in the life of the world…to see his power, his mighty-ness, his love at work in family and friends, our church and into the world.

Moses asks of God in Exodus 33:18, “Then Moses said, "Now show me your glory." God’s ultimate end is to have His Name glorified in all the earth.

Make no mistake. God has no ego problem. He does not reveal his glory just for his good. We need to see it for our good. We need a strong hand to pull us safely into the boat. That hand was once nailed to a cross to ensure our safety forever. And once in the boat, in the kingdom of God, what becomes our priority?

Simple: Promote God.

See you this coming Sunday, May 5, 2019 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church

1635 Chester Dr.

Tracy CA 95376

Worship @ 8:30 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.

Also, don’t miss out on God’s blessing you and your family in worship for Sunday, May 12, 2019 – Mother’s Day Weekend. Powerful truth and teaching from John 15… “A Mother’s Love & God’s too!”

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 4/21

Sun, 28 Apr 2019 21:35:51 GMT

Week of April 21-27, 2019

The Word: John 21

John 21:15, “When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?”

Jesus continues this awesome conversation of restoration of Peter’s heart. You recall how Peter swore on his life never to deny/desert Jesus. Here’s a brief chronology:

John 13:37, “Peter said to Jesus…I will lay down my life for you.’”

John 18:27, “Peter again denied it, and at once a rooster crowed.”

Skip to the first Easter Sunday morning! The team of disciples is fishing, again catching nothing. Through the invitation of this man on the shore, “toss the nets to the other side”...great catch!

John 21:7, “The disciples whom Jesus loved said to Peter, ‘It is the Lord!’”

Now read…

John 21:15, “When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?”

Three times Jesus would ask. Three times Jesus granted Peter forgiveness and restoration and then some. For you see after each question, Jesus already had in mind to invite Peter into a life of significance, a life of calling: “Feed my lambs, Tend my sheep, Feed my sheep.”

The sheep referenced here are not the ones on the hillsides outside Jerusalem. These are the followers of the Good Shepherd who will believe that Jesus is God’s very own Son, sent into the world to pay the price for all sin, for all people, for all time by his sacrifice on the cross.

Peter for his part does not offer up brashly this time. With repentance and forgiveness come humility and a recognition that God will do this great work in you and through you. You see God’s offer of life is not merely the forgiveness of sins and with that life eternal (as beyond our imagination great that is). God’s offer of life includes calling and a role to play in God’s great rescue work for all people.

John 21:19, “…And after saying this he [Jesus] said to him [Peter], ‘Follow me.’”

Peter - Forgiven, Restored, Called by the risen Lord Jesus!

You too.

Me too.

Amen.

Join us this coming Sunday, April 28, 2019 as six Jr. High students reaffirm their faith in the Lord Jesus for Confirmation Sunday. Each responding to Jesus’ invitation, “Come, follow me. St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Tracy CA 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

Finally, don’t forget Tracy’s National Day of Prayer – Thursday – May 2, 2019 – City Hall – 12 Noon.

In Christ Jesus,

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 4/14

Tue, 16 Apr 2019 20:13:32 GMT

Holy Week

The Word: John 17:1-26

This Holy Week please take some time to read through John 17:1-26.

Here's two verses to get you started...

John 17:1,9, “When Jesus had spoken these words, he lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you… I am praying for them. [disciples] I am not praying for the world but for those whom you have given me, for they are yours.” ESV

John 17:1-5 Jesus first prays for Himself (to glorify God).

John 17:6-19 Jesus prays for His disciples (those closest to Him) that His joy may be fulfilled in them, protection from the evil one, that they be sanctified in truth.

John 17:20-26 Jesus prays for all who will believe in Jesus through the testimony of these faithful disciples (this is you and me and all who believe in Jesus as Savior and Lord).

This is a great pattern for us to follow for our prayers during this Holy Week and beyond! Speaking of Holy Week...

Little Known Facts about Holy Week

Holy Week is the week before Easter. How many of these facts did you know about the days that commemorate the Passion of Christ?

1. Holy Week observances likely began in Jerusalem in the earliest days of the church.

2. Holy week does not include Easter Sunday.

3. Because of the difficulty in getting palm branches in some parts of the world, leaves from yew, willow, olive, or other native trees are frequently used. The designation of the Sunday then becomes Yew Sunday or Branch Sunday.

4. A name for the Wednesday before Easter is “Spy Wednesday”, named for Judas' becoming a spy for the Sanhedrin.

5. Maundy Thursday is the day before Good Friday. The term “Maundy” is derived from the Latin word mandatum (commandment). The term refers to the commandment given by Jesus at the Last Supper: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.”

6. The historical origins of the “Good” in Good Friday remain unclear, though some etymologists believe the term “good” is an archaic form of “holy.” We could call it “Holy Friday.”

7. In Catholic and Eastern Orthodox traditions, Holy Saturday commemorates the “harrowing of hell,” the time between his Crucifixion and his Resurrection when Christ is believed to have descended into hell.

8. In Medieval Europe, Christians would abstain from eating eggs and meat during Lent. Eggs laid during that time were often boiled to preserve them and were given as Easter gifts to children and servants. Some traditions claim the Easter egg is symbolic of the resurrection of Jesus, with the shell of the egg representing the sealed Tomb and cracking the shell representing the Resurrection. Christians in the Middle East and in Greece painted eggs bright red to symbolize the blood of Christ.

9. The name “Easter” is derived from the Anglo-Saxon word “oster”, meaning “to rise” or for their term for the Spring equinox, “Eostre.”

And Finally...

I encourage you to join us

Holy Week/Easter

@ St. Paul's Lutheran Church

Maunday Thursday Worship – 7:00 p.m.
Prayer Vigil – Thursday 8:00 p.m. to 12 Midnight then Friday 5:00 a.m. to 12 Noon
Good Friday Worship – 7:00 p.m.
Easter Sunrise Worship (Outside, dress warmly!) – 6:30 a.m.
Easter Breakfast – 7:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Easter Worship – 8:30 a.m. followed by Easter Egg Hunt
Easter Worship – 10:30 a.m. followed by Easter Egg Hunt

God bless you

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 4/7

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 23:05:27 GMT

Prayer - Only for Emergencies - Not!

The Word: Daniel 3

Daniel 3:16-18, “Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego answered and said to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. 17 If this be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of your hand, O king. 18 But 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.” ESV

One of the disciplines of being a follower of Jesus is prayer. For many of us, we don’t think about prayer until it becomes an emergency plan. In times of real dire need, the emergency prayer sounds like this: “GOD!”

I’m told that there’s an expression in the military that says, “There are no atheists in a foxhole”…

Is prayer merely an emergency plea to God or could it also be a discipline – a daily habit for those who would be devoted followers of Jesus?.

To hear more, you do not want to miss this week – Palm Sunday @ St. Paul’s Lutheran, Tracy CA. Sunday. April 14, 2019

Worship at 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 3/31

Fri, 05 Apr 2019 20:27:11 GMT

We don't know what to do, but our eyes are on you!

The Word: 2 Chronicles 20

2 Chron. 20:12, “O our God, will you not execute judgment on them?

For we are powerless against this great horde that is coming against us.

We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.” ESV

There are times when life is quite calm and peace-filled and we really do love and embrace life. However, you and I have walked this planet long enough to know that life is not always so loveable. Sometimes it is confusing, sometimes it is plain crushing. Ours is a time when for so many life has become overwhelming and at the lowest we can get to the point that it seems that all lives would be better off if life would just end. At such times, it is critical to seek God. This verse from 2 Chronicles is one of those overwhelming times life. The setting is the Old Testament. The King is Jehoshaphat.

Listen in on what could be a model prayer for us at such times…

2 Chron. 20:12, “O our God, will you not execute judgment on them? For we are powerless against this great horde that is coming against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.” ESV

When our focus is on the Lord God we can remind ourselves of the great truths about God and about us. God has created us. He has redeemed us. He sanctifies us. He is with us. We are his.

These truths can sustain us in times of great trial. Oh give thanks to God for his steadfast love endures forever. Amen.

You will want to hear more, this coming Sunday, April 7, 2019 at St. Paul’s. 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m. “Our eyes are on you, Jesus.”

Also watch for the sign up clipboard for St. Paul’s Lenten/Easter Vigil Time of Prayer.

Thursday, April 18, 2019 from 8:00 p.m. to 12 Midnight. Good Friday, April 19, 2019 from 5:00 a.m. to 12 Noon.

God bless you this week

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 3/24

Tue, 26 Mar 2019 02:01:30 GMT

Holy Week 2019

The Word: 2 Chronicles

You and I have walked this planet long enough to know that life can be very challenging. These times of challenge can sometimes just be confusing and at other times these challenges can be crushing to our hearts and spirit.

There was such a time in the life of the Israelite King, Jehoshaphat. A vast overwhelming Philistine army was coming and he was completely overwhelmed. Here’s the account in

2 Chronicles 20

2 Chron. 20, “After this the Moabites and Ammonites, and with them some of the Meunites,came against Jehoshaphat for battle. 2 Some men came and told Jehoshaphat, “A great multitude is coming against you from Edom,from beyond the sea; and, behold, they are in Hazazon-tamar” (that is, Engedi). 3 Then Jehoshaphat was afraid and set his face to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. 4 And Judah assembled to seek help from the Lord; from all the cities of Judah they came to seek the Lord.” ESV

Jehoshaphat in his fear…

· set his face to seek the Lord

· proclaimed a fast

Here is his prayer in verse 20

2 Chron. 20:20, “O our God, will you not execute judgment on them? For we are powerless against this great horde that is coming against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.” ESV

We do not know what to do
Our eyes are on you

This seems to me a great pattern to model when life gets overwhelming.

Seek the Lord in fasting and prayer
Confess our powerlessness
Proclaim our faith and trust in the goodness of God.

For the “rest of the story” – which you do not want to miss… come to St. Paul’s on Sunday, April 7.

In the meantime, plan on hearing testimony of courage from Ghana this Sunday, March 31, 2019 at St. Paul’s @ 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m. with guests Miss Peggy Haase, and Mrs. Marjorie Maciel.

In the meantime for your trial…pray, “Lord God, I am powerless against this great storm in my life and I do not know what to do, BUT my eyes are on you. Thank you for your love shown so clearly in the great victory over all sin and death itself through the sacrifice of your one and only Son, Jesus. Amen.”

Have a great week

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 2/24

Tue, 26 Feb 2019 21:42:49 GMT

Week of February 24-March 2, 2019

The Word: 2 Corinthians 1

2 Cor. 1:4-6, “He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.” NLT

We will be concluding the series – “Weathering the Storms of Life this coming Sunday, March 3, 2019. Here’s a preview…

Your highest form of witnessing is to be a witness out of your pain and loss. We think the world is impressed by our prosperity and how we handle it. Actually the world is most impressed by how we handle our adversity and by how we’ve weathered the storms of our life.

We think that it is our success that gives us credibility. Really it is our perseverance and resilience in times of suffering that give us credibility in life and in being a witness to the hope and life we have in Jesus Christ.

Your deepest life message, the most impactful message you have to share with the hurting, broken world, will come out of your deepest loss. We see this so clearly in the greatest witness of God to/for us. It is not what Jesus said, or taught, or the miracles he did that convince of God’s great love. We see the fullness of God’s great love through Jesus suffering for us, paying the price for all sin, for all time, for all people there on the cross. God’s greatest witness to us is through his suffering.

You and I will have pain and experience loss. Allow God to use your pain and loss for good and not waste it as a means to bring hope, life, and light to those God has given around you. Amen.

For more….Join us at St. Paul's Lutheran Church. Sunday, March 3, 2019 @ 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

Prayers:

- Pray for discernment and the provision of God for all that He has in mind

for St. Paul’s/Bella Vista future staffing including

· Exec. Dir. of Education (Principal for BVCA PreKg-8thgrade)

· Exec. Dir. of Music and Arts

· Exec. Dir. Of Children and Family Ministry

Send Inquiries & Resume to kwaetzig@stpaulstracy.org .

- Pray also for our hosting of the CNH District Mission’s Conference – on the St. Paul’s campus, Saturday, March 16, 2019. Sign up to help us host this event. We’ll cover your registration and lunch!!!

God bless you this day and forward

Into the Kingdom of God - In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 2/10

Fri, 15 Feb 2019 01:02:29 GMT

Week of February 10-16, 2019

The Word: Isaiah 26

Isaiah 26:3, “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you,
because he trusts in you.” ESV

In preparing for the next couple of messages in our “Weathering the Storms of Life” series. I came across this author that has inspired me, Sarah Young, “Jesus Calling: Enjoying Peace in His Presence.” She writes in a manner of intimate conversation with God….

“WELCOME CHALLENGING TIMES as opportunities to trust Me. You have Me beside you and My Spirit within you, so no set of circumstances is too much for you to handle. When the path before you is dotted with difficulties, beware of measuring your strength against those challenges. That calculation is certain to riddle you with anxiety. Without Me, you wouldn’t make it past the first hurdle! The way to walk through demanding days is to grip My hand tightly and stay in close communication with Me. Let your thoughts and spoken words be richly flavored with trust and thankfulness. Regardless of the day’s problems, I can keep you in perfect Peace as you stay close to Me. Sarah Young, “Jesus Calling”

This devotion draws forth the image of a small child’s hand completely enveloped in her father’s hand as they cross a busy street or walk in a busy parking lot. “Hold my hand!” being said repeatedly by the caring father. Greater still is God our Father’s grip on us. It is a grip of grace and love and care. Memorize this promise from God…

Isaiah 26:3, “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you,
because he trusts in you.” ESV

Pray for discernment and the provision of God for all that He has in mind

for St. Paul’s/Bella Vista future staffing including

· Exec. Dir. of Education

· Exec. Dir. of Music and Arts

· Exec. Dir. Of Children and Family Ministry

Send Inquiries & Resume to kwaetzig@stpaulstracy.org .

God bless you this day and forward

Into the Kingdom of God

In Jesus,

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 3/3

Wed, 06 Feb 2019 02:30:31 GMT

Week of February 3-9, 2019

The Word: 1 Peter 5

We will continue the series – “Weathering the Storms of Life -- Struggles – What To Do When Life Doesn’t Make Sense.” This coming Sunday, Feb. 10, 2019 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church @ 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

Here’s a preview!!!

God cares deeply about how you are doing, how you feel.

1 Peter 5:6-7 , “ Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God [set aside self-righteous pride], so that He may exalt you [to a place of honor in His service] at the appropriate time, 7 casting all your cares [all your anxieties, all your worries, and all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares about you [with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully].” Amplified Version

Pray also for discernment and the provision of God for all that He has in mind for St. Paul’s/Bella Vista future staffing including:

· Exec. Dir. of Education (Principal for BVCA Pre-Kg-8thgrade)

· Exec. Dir. of Music and Arts

· Exec. Dir. Of Children and Family Ministry

Send Inquiries & Resume to: kwaetzig@stpaulstracy.org .

God bless you this day and forward

Into the Kingdom of God

In Jesus,

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner

Thu, 31 Jan 2019 01:00:27 GMT

Week of January 27- February 2, 2019

The Word: Romans 8

Romans 8:15-18, “For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” 16 The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him. 18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” ESV

Here’s the same verses in The Message version of the Bible…

Romans 8:15-17, “This resurrection life you received from God is not a timid, grave-tending life. It’s adventurously expectant, greeting God with a childlike “What’s next, Papa?” God’s Spirit touches our spirits and confirms who we really are. We know who he is, and we know who we are: Father and children. And we know we are going to get what’s coming to us—an unbelievable inheritance!” Message Version

Hold on to this promise as you “Weather the Storms of Life”

Continuing Sunday, Feb. 3, 2019 @ St. Paul’s Lutheran Church

8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

A preview… Weathering the Storms of Life - Sorrow

Loss in life is unavoidable - but grief is a choice

There is no life without change

There is no change without loss

There is no loss without pain

But grief is a choice.

Psalm 23:4, “ Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” ESV

I know healing happens in community – join us this week!!

Pray also for discernment and the provision of God for all that He has in mind

for St. Paul’s/Bella Vista future staffing including

· Exec. Dir. of Education (Principal for BVCA PreKg-8thgrade)

· Exec. Dir. of Music and Arts

· Exec. Dir. Of Children and Family Ministry

Send Inquiries & Resume to kwaetzig@stpaulstracy.org .

God bless you this day and forward

Into the Kingdom of God

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 1/20

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 01:31:31 GMT

Week of January 20-26, 2019

The Word: Jeremiah 17

Jeremiah 17:7-8 , “Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. 8 He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for it's leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.” ESV

Stasi Eldridge writes in a book entitled, “ becoming myself ”

“In cases of suffering, you can have understanding or you can have Jesus. If you insist on understanding, you usually lose both. When suffering enters into your life, take a deep breath. The very first thing to do is to invite Jesus into it. Pray, Jesus, catch my heart . When painful trials come your way, by all means ask God what's up—ask him to interpret it for you. But whether he provides understanding or not, invite Jesus in. Keep inviting Jesus into the pain. Invite Jesus into the places in your heart that are rising to the surface through the suffering, be those painful memories, unbelief, or self-contempt. Pray, Please come meet me here Jesus. I need you.

Let suffering be the door you walk through that draws you to deeper intimacy with Jesus. Suffering can do that, if we let it. And though it would never be the doorway we would choose, it is one we will never regret walking through.”

For more join us in worship – “Weathering the Storms of Life”

Sun. Jan. 27, 2019 @ St. Paul’s Worship – 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

Don’t forget short voting for two additional Council members (Morgan Gainor and Deb Schmidt) this Sunday, January 27, 2019

P. S. … Pray for discernment and the provision of God for all that He has in mind for St. Paul’s/Bella Vista future staffing including

· Exec. Dir. of Education (Principal for BVCA PreKg-8thgrade)

· Exec. Dir. of Music and Arts

· Exec. Dir. Of Childrens’ and Families’ Ministry

Send Inquiries & Resume to kwaetzig@stpaulstracy.org .

P.P.S. … Few things would please me more than to have you join us in worship for this "Weathering the Storms Series" and for – Pastor Kal’s birthday Weekend

(b. Jan. 26, …!!!)

God bless you this day and forward

Into the Kingdom of God

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 1/6/19

Sat, 12 Jan 2019 00:54:03 GMT

Week of January 6-12, 2019

The Word: Hebrews 6

Hebrews 6:19, “We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul…”

Life often doesn’t make sense, and dishes up more questions sometimes than answers. When our lives get turned upside down we begin a journey through grief. From the initial shock, to the unbearable sorrow, we struggle with coping with the new reality and are called to surrender to get on a new path for peace and ultimate service.

Our hope is grounded in knowing God is in control, that He can bring good out of bad, and that He has a plan to use our pain for His purpose and glory.

Join me this New Year 2019 on a Journey: “Weathering the Storms of Life.”

Sundays @ St. Paul’s Lutheran Church

8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

FYI…

Special Membership Meeting – Sunday, January 27, 2019. Agenda: We will vote on two additional council members. At the Nov. 2018 Membership Meeting we asked others to prayerfully consider serving on the Council and two members have indicated interest, Morgan Gainor, and Deb Coburn. Plan on a brief meeting (no potluck etc…) in the Life Center at 11:15 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 27 for this election to take place.

Also FYI – New Officers for St. Paul’s Council include

Randy Moehnke, President; Mark Maraj, Treasurer; Judy Castellon, Secretary.

Happy New Year

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 12/16

Thu, 20 Dec 2018 13:32:09 GMT

Week of December 16-22, 2018

The Word: Isaiah 7

Isaiah 7:14, “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”

Coming New Year 2019

I love the promises of God – his track record is in tact. His word as ways are faithful and certain. I’d love for you to join a study that I’ll be leading entitled, Unshakeable Hope . We will start in January on Wednesday nights.

What is shaking in your world right now? Possibly your future, your faith, your family, or finances? All of us could use some unshakeable hope.

Though we’ve never been more educated, entertained, and connected, the suicide rate in America has increased 24% in the last 18 years. How can this be?

One of the reasons must be this: people are dying from lack of hope.

What if we filtered our lives and our challenges through the promises of God? God’s word is filled with promises to help secure us in the storms of life. And since God’s word is unbreakable, our hope is unshakeable.

Join me Wednesday nights beginning on Wed. January 9, 2019 @ 6:30 p.m. I’m asking our small group leaders to join me in preparation for church wide theme for Fall of 2019.

Advent 2018

This Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018 - Don’t miss this last Advent Series message

“The Fruit of Christmas: Faith with Goran and Jessica Vuk”

Come at 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

Christmas 2018

Dec. 24 – Christmas Eve Worship

(5:00 p.m. * 7:00 p.m. * 11:00 p.m)

Dec. 25 – Christmas Day Worship (10:00 a.m. )

Dec. 30 – 1st Sunday After Christmas Worship

(8:30 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.)

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Merry Christmas – Happy New Year

Kal's Korner 12/9

Tue, 11 Dec 2018 00:03:34 GMT

Week of December 9-15, 2018

The Word: 1 Peter – Hope àJoy

1 Peter 1:8-9, “Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.” ESV

Christian Joy Is Not an Act of Our Will-Power

It is a spontaneous, emotional response of the heart to the work of God.

Peter here is not describing a decision; he is describing an explosion. You can decide to brush your teeth, or get an allergy shot; but you cannot, in the same way, decide to rejoice. You can decide to do things that may bring you joy — drive to the country, visit a friend, read a psalm — but whether joy actually happens is not in your own power, the way many other acts are. It may or it may not be there.

That is what I mean when I call it spontaneous. You can prepare for it — like lifting your sail on a still ocean. But you cannot make the wind blow. The Spirit blows where it wills, and joy is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22)

Christian joy is not an act of will-power. It is a spontaneous, emotional response of the heart.

Advent 2018. Don’t miss this Advent Series (Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23) on "The Fruit of Christmas: Sacrifice, Peace, Hope, Faith.” Come at 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

Also for Christmas Planning:

Dec. 24 – Christmas Eve Worship

(5:00 p.m. * 7:00 p.m. * 11:00 p.m)

Dec. 25 – Christmas Day Worship (10:00 a.m. )

Dec. 30 – 1st Sunday After Christmas Worship

(8:30 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.)

Recent News – Jonathan Heinemann has accepted the Call to serve in Illinois. Here are the words he shared with the staff this morning.

“Finally, it is with a heavy heart that I announce I have accepted the Call to serve at St. Peter Lutheran School in Arlington Heights, IL. God has made it 100% clear that is where He is calling my family; thank you all for your prayers. It is stressful to think about having a baby and moving 2 months later to a new place, but God will provide. Mel and I wanted to say “thank you” for all your care and support of our little family. While we prefer to only share Jesus in sunny warm weather, God had other plans! Let’s have fun connecting people to Jesus for life these next six months together.”

Join me in prayers for all in this time of transition for his family and for our St. Paul’s/Bella Vista family. For God’s ongoing faithfulness, leading, and provision.

God bless you this day

In Jesus,

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 12/2

Tue, 04 Dec 2018 02:01:33 GMT

Week of December 2 - 9, 2018

The Word: John 14

John 14:27, “My peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Therefore, let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid” ESV

At the birth of Jesus the angels announce the purpose of Jesus’ coming….

Luke 2:14, ““Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” ESV

Peace and a non-anxious heart are good things to help us journey well in all of life! Amen?!

In the last hours of his life Jesus is helping you become a fearless and peaceful person. The peace he has in mind may include the final peace of all things in the new heaven and the new earth. But that is not what he is focusing on. We know that because he says, “Let not your heart be troubled. Neither let it be afraid.” He has in view your heart, and the peace of your heart, and the fearlessness of your heart, and the untroubled waters of your heart. He wants his people now, to be free from anxiety.

You will not want to miss this “Fruit of Christmas: Peace” message set for this coming Sunday at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church…December 9, 2018 at 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

Advent 2018. Don’t miss this Advent Series (Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23) on

“The Fruit of Christmas: Sacrifice, Peace, Hope, Faith.”

Also for Christmas Planning:

Dec. 24 – Christmas Eve Worship

(5:00 p.m. / 7:00 p.m. / 11:00 p.m)

Dec. 25 – Christmas Day Worship (10:00 a.m. )

Dec. 30 – 1stSunday After Christmas Worship

(8:30 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.)

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 11/25

Tue, 27 Nov 2018 21:57:37 GMT

Week of Nov. 25 - Dec. 1, 2018

The Word: 2 Corinthians

2 Cor. 8:7, “But as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in our love for you—see that you excel in this act of grace [giving] also.” ESV

Just over one year ago, I asked those gathered in worship to prayerfully consider tithing as a way of honoring the Lord and growing in mature trust in the Lord’s love and provision. I then had these commitments – whatever they were, sealed and prayed over and placed for over one year now on the altar.

Just about three weeks ago, I had Kim return these commitments, still sealed, to each person who had responded. I had her include this note:

November 5, 2018

Dear Friends in the Lord,

Greetings to you in the Name of Jesus. One year ago, December 2017, I asked you to prayerfully consider tithing as a way of honoring the Lord and growing in mature trust in the Lord’s love and provision.

These prayerful commitments were dedicated to the glory of God and were placed on the altar at St. Paul’s for this past year. I’m having the office mail these back to you for reference. It is my prayer that you will open this sealed commitment and delight in and give thanks to God for his faithfulness and his love for you.

Please watch beginning on Sunday, December 2, 2018 where I will be encouraging you to complete a Prayerful Commitment for the upcoming 2018/2019 year.

Lori and I have found such joy in generous giving. Tithing has brought us to a closer relationship with God, one of trust and one of sacrificially pouring out our lives as Jesus has poured out his life for us. We love because God has first loved us. We give because God has first given to us.

Thank you for your faithfulness in generous giving. Don’t miss our Advent Conspiracy Series on Worshipping Fully, Spending Less, Giving More, and Loving All.

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

I can’t wait to share together in time in worship – Actual Advent 2018. Don’t miss this Advent Series (Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23) on

“The Fruit of Christmas: Sacrifice, Peace, Joy, Faith.”

Also for Christmas Planning:

Dec. 24 – Christmas Eve Worship

(5:00 p.m. / 7:00 p.m. / 11:00 p.m)

Dec. 25 – Christmas Day Worship (10:00 a.m. )

Dec. 30 – 1st Sunday After Christmas Worship

(8:30 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.)

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 11/11

Sun, 18 Nov 2018 22:55:09 GMT

Week of Nov. 11-17, 2018

The Word: 1 John 3

1 John 3:16-17, “By this we know love, that he [Jesus] laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers. 17 But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him?” ESV

Here’s what I believe God’s goal is for us as a church for Advent/Christmas 2018:

“To experience God’s deep and abiding presence in us.”

(Message 1 John 3:24)

“To live sacrificially for our fellow believers, and not just be out for ourselves.” (Message 1 John 3:16)

The Advent Conspiracy continues into our third week with the topic - giving. For the past two weeks we’ve been conspiring together to celebrate Christmas in a way that restores its revolutionary roots. We’ve joined with hundreds of other churches around the country in an Advent Conspiracy. We’re choosing to rebel, to swim against the cultural tide that favors consumerism over Christ leaving so many of us exhausted and empty.

Instead, we’re choosing to worship the Christ-child fully, allowing the signs and symbols of Christmas to point us back to the Savior. Today, as we continue to live subversively this Christian lifestyle, I want to challenge each one of us to give one less present this year and lots more presence.

We spend around $465 billion on Christmas each year. $465 billion. Whoa! So here’s a couple of great questions, (take some time to reflect on your answer):

What gift do you think Jesus would want for his birthday this year?

If a living presence and life-giving relationships are at the heart of Christmas, shouldn’t our celebration reflect that?

Ask the Lord to direct your heart and your life in the awesome direction of “Spending Less – Giving More.”

Thank you God for the gift of your one and only Son, Jesus.

Join us at St. Paul's Lutheran Church/Tracy CA – Worship @ 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

God bless you with Thanksgiving, Joy, and Serving

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 11/04

Mon, 05 Nov 2018 21:07:18 GMT

Advent Conspiracy - Spend less, Give more

The Word: Proverbs 19

Proverbs 19:23, “The fear of the LORD leads to life:

Then one rests content, untouched by trouble” (Msg)

St. Paul's Lutheran Church Advent Conspiracy

God’s Goal for Advent/Christmas 2018

“To experience God’s deep and abiding presence in us.”

(Message 1 John 3:24)

“To live sacrificially for our fellow believers, and not just be out for ourselves.” (Message 1 John 3:16)

Week 1 Theme: Worship Fully – Listen to Sermon Message from Nov. 4, 2018 www.stpaulstracy.org

Week II Theme: Spend Less/Give More…

We often think if we had the newest I-Phone or the latest Wii system then we would be content. And often as we buy for others, we are breeding that same “contentment through stuff” attitude.

Now I am not here to spoil anyone’s plans. It is not wrong to have those things or to enjoy having them and using them. It is just that we need to be cautious in what we are really seeking to buy in our spending.

If it is the full life we are seeking to buy for ourselves or for someone else in our spending, then we need to realize we will never attain it through our buying and spending.

Proverbs 19:23 says, that it is “The fear of the LORD leads to life: Then one rests content, untouched by trouble”

And Isaiah 55:2, “Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of fare.”

We will never buy fulfillment and contentment and we will never be able to give it to anyone by buying it for them. It is only in our close relationship with the Lord that we will find that peace that passes all understanding.

Join us at St. Paul's Lutheran Church/Tracy CA – Worship @ 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

God bless you with Thanksgiving, Joy, and Serving

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 10/28

Mon, 29 Oct 2018 22:30:10 GMT

Week of Oct. 28-Nov. 3, 2018

The Word: Luke 1 – Theme for Advent Conspiracy.

Luke 1:38, “I am the Lord’s servant," Mary answered. "May it be to me as you have said.”

Here’s what I believe God’s goal is for us as a church for Advent/Christmas 2018:

“To experience God’s deep and abiding presence in us.”

(Message 1 John 3:24)

“To live sacrificially for our fellow believers, and not just be out for ourselves.” (Message 1 John 3:16)

True worship is something that is lived out moment by moment in our actions.

Romans 12:1, “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” ESV

Mary Worshipped the Lord Through Submission

Luke 1:38, “I am the Lord’s servant," Mary answered. "May it be to me as you have said.”

What’s is the difference between obedience and submission?

Obedience is an outward action

Submission is an inward attitude

Obedience is the doing of what you are told to do.

Submission is voluntarily placing someone else’s will above your own.

Join us this coming Sunday, Nov. 4, 2018 @ St. Paul's Lutheran Church

8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m. – Advent Conspiracy – Preparing for Christmas 2018.

This is not a series you want to miss.

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 10/21

Wed, 24 Oct 2018 02:03:28 GMT

For the week of 10/21-27

The Word: 1 John 3 for Advent/Christmas 2018

1 John 3:17-18, “But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him?

18 Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.

To those gathered together in the Lord Jesus at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and to all who may read these words from afar…Grace, mercy, and peace be to you in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Merry Christmas

Now that I have your attention (and quite possibly your wrath at such a jumpstart on this holiday (HolyDay) Season. I’ve been praying (more like wrestling in thought and prayer) about all God would have me say to our church for this coming Advent/Christmas season. You know the characters never change, so I was looking at whatever God might give me for creativeness. Steve Carpenter reminded me of the Advent where I had the Christmas tree upside down in the entry way of the church to “turn our Advent/Christmas Season practices on their head!”

In the discerning process, God spoke and directed me more toward taking back Christmas from what it has become in our culture. Some time back several churches partnered on such a theme - calling it the Advent Conspiracy…rebelling from what is and moving toward what God would have this season and all our lives be about.

I’m inviting you to Conspire with me this Christmas. Conspire means to plan or act or work or plot together toward the same result or goal.

Here’s what I believe God’s goal is for us as a church for Advent/Christmas 2018:

“To experience God’s deep and abiding presence in us.”

(Message 1 John 3:24)

And

“To live sacrificially for our fellow believers, and not just be out for ourselves.” (Message 1 John 3:16)

We spend over $4.65 billion in the United States for Christmas. I want to challenge us toward "spending less" on that which has little effect and "spend more" on areas that will change/enrich/bless others lives in our community, and in our world. This is our purpose as a church and as believers in Jesus and as Christians at Christmas and beyond!

Pastor, really starting in early November??!!

I'm starting this series in November because I know the train of spending, planning etc, begins even now in October and especially in November. If I wait until the actual Sundays in Advent. Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23 that train has left the station!! We will have missed the opportunity to respond to changes in habits and practices this holiday.

If there ever was a series that I am going to preach on that you do NOT want to miss, it is this one. It is inspired and a gift of God for you and me. We will conspire together to: worship fully, spend less, give more, and love all. My guest on Sunday, Nov. 18 will be Andy Prokop, United Way President and CEO. God’s story in and through him will inspire and motivate your heart and soul.

Wow. If this is what God has planned for us in November, I can’t wait to see what He has planned for us in December!!! Let’s Conspire together this Advent/Christmas.

Are you in?

Don't forget – This coming Sunday, Oct 28, 2018 is the climax of our series on One Prayer. We will celebrate baptism with a young family. We will be welcoming several families into the family of God here at St. Paul’s. Don’t miss the gathering at Tracy City Hall fountain for a brief One Prayer Concluding Event at 1:30 p.m.

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 10/14

Tue, 23 Oct 2018 20:22:44 GMT

For the week of 10/14-20

The Word: Matthew 25

One of the members of my former congregation in Oregon shared the following poem with me. I’m passing it on to you.

You have no tongue, O Christ, as once of old,

To tell the story of your love divine;

The story as strange as sweet, as true;

But there’s no tongue to tell it out but mine.

You have no hands, O Christ, as once of old,

To feed the multitudes with bread divine.

You have the living bread, enough for all;

But there’s no hand to give it out but mine.

You have no feet, O Christ, as once of old,

To go where your lost sheep in desert pine.

Your love is still as deep, as strong, as kind;

But now you have no feet to go but mine.

And should I use these ransomed powers and gifts of mine

For things that only minister unto me?

Lord, take my tongue, my hands, my feet, my all;

And let them live, and give and go for thee.

Jesus shares this challenging truth…

Matthew 25:37-40, “Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? 38 And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? 39 And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ 40 And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers,you did it to me.’” ESV

See you this coming Sunday, Oct. 21 for One Prayer VII – Identity. Don’t miss either at 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m. Plan on greeting our visiting BVCA Kg-1stgrade students and their families. Walk with them over to the life center for donuts and coffee.

God bless your week

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 10/ 7

Sun, 14 Oct 2018 22:11:05 GMT

For the week of October 7-13

The Word: Read Luke 18:1-8

Luke 18:8, “I tell you, he will give justice to them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” ESV

Many people have trouble with prayer, or even give up the practice, because they think that praying is an exercise…

in telling God what he already knows
or persuading God to do what he wouldn’t do otherwise
or somehow changing God in one way or another.

Prayer, any prayer worthy of the name, is quite the opposite.

The primary effect of prayer is not on God, but on us.

God’s love is already unconditional, his justice perfect, his compassion without limit. He recognizes our needs even before we do. It’s not God who needs to change, it is up to us to get in line with God’s program, and prayer is a large part of how that comes about.

Join us this Sunday at St. Paul’s Tracy - October 14, 2018 @ 8:30 am or 10:00 am as we continue the City Wide – One Prayer Series.

P.S. Don’t forget to mark your calendar for Sunday, Oct. 28. One Prayer Event - Tracy City Hall @ 1:30 pm.

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 9/23

Sun, 23 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For the Week of Sept. 23-29, 2018

The Word: Luke 11

Luke 11:1, “…When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray…”

Jesus invitation to us and to all is two very simple words “Follow Me.”

Our usual response is usually two words as well --- “but first…”

I invite you to join the City of Tracy Churches in -- One Prayer

Luke 11:1, “One day Jesus was praying…”

If we are to follow Jesus as His disciple then we will be about the same things he spends his time…one of those activities we read about so often is … prayer.

Luke 11:1, “…in a certain place.”

Prayer is in Jesus’ routine…

Luke 11:1, “…When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray…”

This request seems like a genuine inquiry about something they see in Jesus when he finishes praying. We would do well to ask the same. “Lord, teach me to pray…”

Don’t miss this coming Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018 as Pastor Kal shares from God’s Word.

“When it comes to prayer…It really is all about God’s Honor.”

See you Sunday at St. Paul’s @ 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

P.S. For those new to the Christian faith and/or new to St. Paul’s Church… This coming Sunday after 10:00 a.m. worship CLASS 101 is being taught by Pastor Kal. Call Kim in the church office 209-835-7438 or just join in after worship this Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018.

P.S.S. Men’s Retreat was an awesome event. Thank you to Mr. Frank Balestrery for covering our One Prayer Series on Unanswered Prayer.

God bless

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 9/9

Sun, 09 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For the week of September 9-15, 2018

The Word: Ephesians 5

Ephesians 5:15-17, “Look carefully then how you walk,

not as unwise but as wise,

16 making the best use of the time,

because the days are evil.

17 Therefore do not be foolish,

but understand what the will of the Lord is.” ESV

I encourage you to drink from the truths of this verse deeply.

“ Look Carefully ” – pay attention to all that God may be directing for your life and for the life of our church/school
“ How you walk ”– there is an expectation by God that we will actually walk in His will and ways.
“Not as unwise” – guided only by the immense wisdom of God Almighty
“Making the best use of time” – our time of being followers of Jesus is urgent
Verse 17 implies that “foolishness is not understanding the will of God.”

I urge you to join me, St. Paul's Lutheran Church and five other area churches to grow closer to God and grow in connection with one another. We are not created to be alone. We sometimes think that being alone is the best way we can connect with the presence of God. God would have us know that it is connecting, caring, serving that we can experience his presence. Read this verse again slowly.

Ephesians 5:15-17, “Look carefully then how you walk,

not as unwise but as wise,

16 making the best use of the time,

because the days are evil.

17 Therefore do not be foolish,

but understand what the will of the Lord is.” ESV

What truth wells up in you?

Is there anything, or any area in your life right now that you desire to repent?

Do so now.

Also, ask God where He would have you serve His kingdom work right now.

Email me today with what God reveals to you or any promptings.

Seriously, for the next 7 weeks let’s take ourselves LESS seriously, and God MORE seriously.

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 9/2

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For the Week of September 2-8, 2018

Kal's Korner!

Week of Sept. 2- 8, 2018

The Word: 2 Chronicles

2ndChronicles 7:14 , “ If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” ESV

ONE PRAYER

This is a season of United Prayer. Our congregation and several others in Tracy have partnered to unite in prayer. Look for God to show you His love and lead you in purpose for life now and life eternal. Small groups forming now and here's a preview of our One Prayer Series.

· Sept. 9, 2018 – Joel Rockemann will bring a message, “Take Heart. Take Action.

· Sept. 16, 2018 – Miss Peggy Haase – Missionary to Ghana continues our series on One Prayer.

· Sept. 23, 2018 – Mr. Frank Balestrery continues our series on One Prayer “Unanswered Prayer”

· Sept. 30, 2018 – Pastor Kal on One Prayer – God’s Honor

Pray for….

Tracy Community

Bella Vista School

St. Paul’s Lutheran Church

Children’s Ministry Leadership

Haiti, Ghana, Nepal, Bosnia, Russia

One Prayer – For the names of all on our One Prayer banners to take up God on His offer of life in Jesus. Amen.

Kal's Korner 8 26

Sun, 26 Aug 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For the Week of August 26-Sept. 1

The Word: 1 Peter 2:9

Greetings in the Name of Jesus.

My wife, Lori and I, just celebrated our youngest son, Andrew’s marriage to Alexis Heredia. I am still in awe of the brilliance of the night. I love how God in His infinite wisdom designed us as man and woman to come together as one. The wedding was truly a holy moment of God to behold. My heart spilled over with emotion from the very first step that Andrew and I took together as we processed in to begin the formal part of the wedding. I asked him to pause with me so that we could both just slow time down for a moment to “take in” all the wonder and beauty of decorations, of family, of friends, of faith.

As part of the wedding message I shared the very Scripture verse that was spoken over Lori and my wedding over 35 years ago. Again, I had to take another extended pause to catch my voice and to wipe a tear in the beauty of it all. The verse…

1 Peter 2:9, “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”

Their vows to one another were filled with words of love, faithfulness, perseverance and faith. The maid of honor and best man’s speeches were joyous and poignant. It is moments like these that joy – pure unfettered joy – pour forth from our hearts and there isn’t enough tissue in the world to soak it all up. Weddings remind us that relationships of love and friendship are gifts from God and important to him.

While all of this was happening I was getting word that three members of our St. Paul's family had died as well as the father of one of my best pastor friends. Again I was amazed at the heart God has given us and its ability to be filled with joy and mirth and at the same time to stretch with compassion and grief over loss of beloved family members.

In all of this…joy and sorrow…we have a purpose, life has meaning. We are chosen of God, a royal, holy, special possession to Him with the express purpose to “declare the praises of him who called us from darkness to light.”

Thank you for allowing me to reminisce a bit!! Now let’s look forward.

Up and coming to St. Paul’s in the days ahead.

ONE PRAYER

This is a season of United Prayer. Our congregation and several others in Tracy have partnered to Unite in Prayer. I began this series on Sunday, August 19, with a message entitled, “Why Pray?” Please pull up You Tube and type in St. Paul’s Tracy, CA and click on August 19, 2018 and listen in on this message. It really does set the stage and it is worth your effort.

Sept. 2, 2018 – Pastor Kal – One Prayer - Attunement – You will just have to come and find out what this awesome word means. Don’t miss this coming Sunday .

Sept. 9, 2018 – Don’t miss this Sunday either!! Joel Rockemann will bring a message from God on all that was accomplished in Haiti and God’s calling now for him here in the Cross Cultural Ministry Certification toward Pastoral Ordination.

Sept. 16, 2018 – Miss Peggy Haase – Missionary to Ghana continues our series on One Prayer. Don’t miss. I’m telling you!!

Sept. 23, 2018 – Mr. Frank Balestrery continues our series on One Prayer “Unanswered Prayer” Again don’t miss!!

Sept. 30, 2018 – Pastor Kal on One Prayer – God’s Honor – Don’t miss!

Ok – Finally … Praise

· Bev Richhart’s willing spirit to spearhead Sr. High Youth

· Melissa Heinemann’s willing spirit to spearhead Sunday Morning Sunday School

· Several leaders are praying over spearheading Wed. Night Explorer’s ministry.

God bless you and all your relationships

I pray each day your heart is filled to the brim with joy

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 7.15

Sun, 15 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For the Week of July 15-22, 2018

The Word: Zephaniah 3

Zephaniah 3:17 , “The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.” ESV

Here is the connection between God's delight in his name and his delight in you. When you take refuge in his name, he exults over you with loud singing.

If you seek your own glory among men, truly you have your reward on the earth. If you exalt your own name among men, truly you have your reward on the earth. If you bank on your own righteousness, truly you have your reward on the earth.

But if you humble yourself and seek the glory of God above all things, and if you hide your name in the name of God, and if you clothe yourself with the righteousness of his Son, then your heavenly Father who loves his name above all things will reward you beyond all imaginings and exult over you with loud singing.

Let that sink deep into your mind and heart this day… and rejoice!

See you Sunday, July 22 for awesome conclusion to our series on Zephaniah.

St. Paul’s at the corner of Chester Dr and Lowell Ave. @ 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

God bless

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 7.8

Sun, 08 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For the Week of July 8-14, 2018

The Word: Zephaniah 3

Zephaniah 3:17,“The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.” ESV

This verse, Zephaniah 3:7, has taken my mind and heart captive for a couple of months now. It is so full of promise in the Lord. It is worth memorizing its truth for future assaults to your heart and mind.

I took some time to check out the context of this promising verse. It is set in the midst of some very strong words of warning from God through the prophet, Zephaniah. Check out the intensity of this warning in

Zeph 3:1-2, “Woe to her who is rebellious and defiled, the oppressing city! 2 She listens to no voice; she accepts no correction. She does not trust in the Lord; she does not draw near to her God.” ESV

Then, at the end of his indictment, as so often in the prophets, comes an amazing shift. Along side the destruction of his wrath, God promises the re-creating power of his love. It seems that in spite of the worldwide outpouring of his wrath, God is going to do two great acts of mercy described in 3:9–20.

# 1 - The Promise of a Global Awakening

# 2 - The Promise of Revival and Purification

Biblical Insight: No matter how God intends to do these two things we must affirm what the prophet affirms: God will not be denied a people to call on his name and to serve him from all the nations of the world .

Prayer: “Oh Lord, keep us ever mindful of your intense love. Guard us from disobedience and complacency. We are yours and you are ours. We celebrate your great love for us, in Jesus. Rejoice over us again with singing!! Amen.”

Pray for us at St. Paul’s / Bella Vista

VBS this week – going awesome

For safety of all in Haiti and for Rockemann transition to the States in July

For Miss Haase transition from Ghana to the States in August

For Commissioning of two new called teachers and installations of all BVCA teaching staff on Sunday, July 29 .

For Sending Place Team, Julie Vehrs, mission to Ecuador this week

Praying for your week in the Lord.

God bless

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 6.10

Sun, 10 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For the Week of June 10-16, 2018

The Word: Father’s Day 2018 - Deuteronomy 6

Deut. 6:7, “ You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way,and when you lie down, and when you rise.”ESV

The Secret to Boys

Every little boy is asking one basic question. You’ll notice it in nearly everything he does. Little boys love adventure. Every boy wants to be a hero, powerful, dangerous, and he wants to know: “Do I have what it takes?”

And every boy looks to his dad to answer it.

The Secret to Girls

Every little girl is asking one basic question too. But it's a very different question. You can observe it in everything she does. Little girls don’t invent games where bloodshed is a prerequisite for having fun, where a large number of people “die.” Boys invent days of hockey, girls tend to invent games like wedding or school, or mommies and daddies and rescue the princess. You don’t have to teach this. It comes to them as part of their design.

Every little girl wants to know: “Am I lovely?”

That’s the question every girl is asking. And she looks to her dad first to answer it.

Dads let me say this clearly: You, Dad, are the most powerful man in the world…at least in their world. Your children are looking to you to answer their deepest question of their lives. How you handle their hearts will shape them for the rest of their lives.

Join us all at St. Paul’s Tracy for this Father’s Day

June 17, 2018. I’ll be sharing a message entitled, “You Have What It Takes-What Every Father Needs To Know.” Here are some scriptures for you to read in advance! See you at St. Paul's Lutheran Church @ 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

Scripture: Deut. 6:4-12, Colossians 3:15-17, John 15:5-11

PS Update 1

One of the two teaching candidates (Bev) has replied with a “yes” in coming to BVCA Middle School! The second candidate and his wife met with the church and school staff and we are praying for a positive response within this coming week. Pray for them…James & Shannon.

PS Update 2

Joel and Ingrid Rockemann set to return to the States, Tracy CA some time around the end of July!! God has graciously raised us another husband and wife team to replace positions with God’s Littlest Angels in Haiti.

PS Update 3

The funds for the Ghana Bus will be on their way.

“Thank you Lord God for your provision and faithfulness in Haiti, Ghana, and right here among us in Tracy CA!!”

Kal's Korner 6.3

Sun, 03 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For the Week of June 3-9, 2018

The Word: Genesis 16

Genesis 16:7-8, “The angel of the Lord found her [Hagar] by a spring of water in the wilderness, the spring on the way to Shur. And he said, “Hagar, servant of Sarai, where have you come from and where are you going?” ESV

Rev. David Bennett will join us again at St. Paul’s this coming Sunday, June 10, 2018.

He will bring a message from Genesis 16 on Hagar and God’s call to plan for those areas of life that are the most important. You do not want to miss. This coming Sunday at St. Paul’s will be (in the words of Claire) Epic! I truly believe God is going to inspire you to that which He has already put on your heart to bless His Kingdom work here at St. Paul’s in this generation and into the next.

David Bennett grew up in Southeastern Ohio where he met his bride, Karen. They now reside in Roseville, CA. They have two sons, Joel (24) and Jay (22). Dave graduated from Cedarville University with a B.A. in English and Bible. He graduated from Dallas Theological Seminary with the Master of Theology degree and an M.A. in Counseling from Ashland University.

Dave has pastored in Cleveland, Ohio, and served as a Financial Consultant at a major brokerage firm where he and his partner managed over $380 million of customers’ assets in the late ‘90’s. Currently, he serves clients helping individuals and non-profits make wise decisions about their resources so that they can accomplish their goals. He does this through developing written step-by-step action plans resulting in increased giving for their regular operating, for capital projects and for longer term resourcing through individual’s estates. This has resulted in over $90 million raised for buildings, funding staff, debt reduction, support raising for new churches, scholarships, missions projects and other ministry expansion initiatives.

Join us THIS COMING SUNDAY – JUNE 10, 2018

Worship @ 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.

Top Ten Ways of Supporting St. Paul’s Without Writing a Check

1 hour Informational Workshop @ 11:15 a.m. in the Conference Room

Enter at flagpoles

Light lunch served.

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 5.27

Sun, 27 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For the Week of May 27-June 2, 2018

The Word: Zephaniah 3

Zephaniah 3:17, “The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.” ESV

My wife and I just experienced the birth of our 2ndgrandchild. Since this grandchild to be born was from our daughter and they live closer (San Jose vs Seattle), my wife was able to participate in the delivery first hand – up front – all 24 hours of hard back labor accompanied by the awesome encouragement of our son-in-law.

While this was all taking place, in the nursery wing, the two future grandpa’s waited out in the family waiting room, the cafeteria, or eventually the chairs at the entrance of the closed hospital.

All of what I’m about the share were the lessons I’ve learned from this beautiful one week old.

Life is Not Guaranteed
Life Is A Precious Gift
Life Comes With Challenges
Life Comes With Waiting

And With Waiting Comes Opportunity

Opportunity for Witness

Opportunity for Prayer

Opportunity for Pride

Life is a Wonder – Physically & Spiritually

You will want to hear more about this at St. Paul’s this coming Sunday, June 3, 2018 @ 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

Make it a point to make worship a priority this summer to refresh your heart

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

P.S. Please be sure to RSVP to the Top Ten Ways of Giving to the Church Without Writing a Check. It is set for 11:15 a.m. Sunday, June 10. I look forward to sharing this workshop opportunity with each of you, with all of you. It is worth your time. Lunch included. RSVP to kadams@stpaulstracy.org .

Kal's Korner 5.20

Sun, 20 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For the Week of May 20-26, 2018

The Word: Revelation

Revelation 14:13, “And I heard a voice from heaven saying, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Blessed indeed,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them!” ESV

Memorial Day – A Day for Remembering

To help re-educate and remind Americans of the true meaning of Memorial Day, the " National Moment of Remembrance " resolution was passed on Dec 2000 which asks that at 3 p.m. local time, for all Americans

"To voluntarily and informally observe in their own way a Moment of remembrance and respect, pausing from whatever they are doing for a moment of silence or listening to Taps.”

The story about Taps is that in July 1862, after the Seven Days battles at Harrison's Landing (near Richmond), Virginia, the wounded Commander of the 3rd Brigade, 1st Division, V Army Corps, Army of the Potomac, General Daniel Butterfield reworked, with his bugler Oliver Wilcox Norton, another bugle call, "Scott Tattoo," to create Taps.

He thought that the regular call for Lights Out was too formal. Taps was adopted throughout the Army of the Potomac and finally confirmed by orders. Soon other Union units began using Taps, and even a few Confederate units began using it as well.

After the war, Taps became an official bugle call. Col. James A. Moss, in his Officer's Manual first published in 1911, gives an account of the initial use of Taps at a military funeral: "During the Peninsular Campaign in 1862, a soldier of Tidball's Battery A of the 2nd Artillery was buried at a time when the battery occupied an advanced position concealed in the woods. It was unsafe to fire the customary three volleys over the grave , on account of the proximity of the enemy, and it occurred to Capt. Tidball that the sounding of Taps would be the most appropriate ceremony that could be substituted."

Words to Taps

(Note: there are no "official" words to Taps below are the most popular.)

Day is done, gone the sun, From the hills, from the lake, from the skies.

All is well, safely rest, God is nigh.

Go to sleep, peaceful sleep, May the soldier or sailor,

God keep. On the land or the deep, Safe in sleep.

Love, good night, Must thou go, When the day, And the night

Need thee so? All is well. Speedeth all To their rest.

Fades the light; And afar Goeth day, And the stars

Shineth bright, Fare thee well; Day has gone, Night is on.

Thanks and praise, For our days, 'Neath the sun Neath the stars, 'Neath the sky, As we go, This we know, God is nigh

Join us this Sunday at St. Paul's Lutheran Church @ 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m. to “remember” and “give thanks.”

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 5.13

Sun, 13 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For the Week of May 13-19, 2018

The Word: Acts 2

Acts 2:17, 21 “17And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams…21And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” ESV

Sometime back the Associated Press carried this dispatch: "Glasgow, Ky.--Leslie Puckett, after struggling to start his car, lifted the hood and discovered that someone had stolen the motor."

That car is not going to go very far. Neither are you or I nor the church if we don’t understand the gift of God in the Holy Spirit.

Inspired by God’s own Spirit the early church…“devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.” ESV

See you this Sunday, May 20 at St. Paul’s @ 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

God bless

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 5.6

Sun, 06 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For the Week of May 6-12, 2018

The Word: Ecclesiastes 3

Ecclesiastes 3:1, “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven…”

This week I’d like to share a whole lot of “matters under heaven…” that are taking place right here at St. Paul’s/Bella Vista…Impressive to say the least…read on!

Mother’s Day

You do not want to miss out on a powerful message for this Mother’s Day entitled, “Depression & Hope in the Psalms.” It is based on Psalm 42. I have no doubt that God will encourage each heart this coming Sunday, May 13, 2018. Come at 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

Here’s a story to share with your mom on mother’s day this year. Pancake Breakfast. A mother was preparing pancakes for her sons, Kevin, 5, Ryan, 3. The boys began to argue over who would get the first pancake. Their mother saw the opportunity to teach. “If Jesus were sitting here, He would say, ‘Let my brother have the first pancake. I can wait.’”

Kevin, the older brother, turned to his younger brother and said, “Ryan, you be Jesus!”

Bus For Ghana School

The bus for the school children in Ghana keeps breaking down. Miss Haase (St. Paul’s missionary to Ghana) is asking us for prayers and support for God’s provision. The estimated cost is $12,000. We would love to see this bus “hit the road!!” Take some time in prayer to ask God how you can help.

Rockemann Family Return

The Rockemann family (St. Paul’s missionary family to Haiti) will be returning to Tracy this Summer/Fall. Joel will be working off-site and studying full-time toward Pastoral Ordination through the CrossCultural-Ministry-Center out of Concordia University, Irvine. We are seeking funding support for their return to the States.

Farewell to O’Hara Family

Jacob and Kari along with Gloria and Abel are moving back to Ohio. Jacob has accepted the call to a teaching position as a High School Religion teacher. Jacob’s family is there in Ohio and Kari’s will be a lot closer too. Join us for a farewell send off, Sunday, June 3 . Plan on prayer over them in worship at the 10:00 a.m. worship service followed by a

Swim Party/Taco Bar Fest (taco’s/burritos, taco salad fixins provided) @ the Waetzig home… 1460 Divine Lane Tracy CA 95376 . Bring any side dish of your choice, your own beverage and a swim suit/towel. Plan on 3:00 p.m. start. Again, Sunday, June 3, 2018 .

Retirement of Diana Schmidt

Diana Schmidt will be turning in her teaching keys after a long and illustrious teaching career. I’m not sure how many years, but I do know that she has been a great blessing to all BVCA and along with her husband, Ron, to all St. Paul’s ministry. They are planning to keep Tracy as home base, but will be taking some site seeing trips to Montana and beyond.

May Membership Meeting

Plan on Sunday, May 20, 2018 @ 11:15 a.m. for St. Paul’s Spring Membership Meeting. Along with a delicious pot-luck lunch, Pastor Kal and St. Paul’s leadership will be sharing updates on St. Paul’s/Bella Vista ministry past, present and future.

Top Ten Ways of Giving

Rev. David Bennett has been enlisted to help St. Paul’s plan for strong financial footing. Don’t miss this Top 10 Ways to Support St. Paul’s Without Writing a Check” workshop. Sunday, June 10, 2018 @ 11:15 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. includes lunch. He will cover such topics as estate planning trusts and wills, nursing home and health care issues, retirement planning, financial planning, reducing taxes, low cost life insurance, and remembering St. Paul’s in my will.

Father’s Day 2018

You will not want to miss out on Father’s Day, 2018 at St. Paul’s. Pastor Kal is set to cover the following theme: “You Have What it Takes…What Every Father Needs to Know.” Every father will receive a small booklet by the powerful men’s ministry author, John Eldredge.

Vacation Bible School

If you were here last week you heard about this amazing outreach opportunity for our church this coming summer. VBS is set for the week of July 9-13 with VBS Sunday set for July 15 . Each member of St. Paul’s is asked to participate in some capacity for this event. Indicate on the connection card in worship… “I’m open to help. Contact me via phone or email.” Or see the sign up sheet in the entryway of the sanctuary of our church. Or you may email Kayla Montoya directly at kmontoya@stpaulstracy.org

Finally – Experience the Holy Lands – March 4-13, 2019

With Pastor Kal and Lori Waetzig. San Francisco to Tel Aviv, Caesarea, Megiddo, Mt. Carmel, Nazareth, Cana, Galilee, Mt of Beatitudes, Capernaum, Sea of Galilee Boat Ride, Bethsaida, Jordan River, Golan Heights, Caesarea Philippi, Tel Dan, Gideon Springs, Beit Shean, Jerusalem, Qumran, En Gedi, Masada, Dead Sea Swim/Float, Mt. of Olives, Palm Sunday Road, Garden of Gethsemane, Western Wall, Via Dolorosa, Bethlehem, City of David, Hezekiah’s Tunnel, Pool of Siloam, and the Garden Tomb. You will never be the same again. This trip is inspiring in all mind, body, and spirit. Join us March 4-13, 2019 . Email Pastor Kal @ kwaetzig@stpaulstracy.org with any questions you may have.

Ecclesiastes 3:1, “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven…”

Told ya!!!

God bless your days
In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 4.29

Sun, 29 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For the Week of April 29-May 5, 2018

The Word: Psalm 42

Psalm 42:11, “Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God.” ESV

The heading of Psalm 42 … “To the choirmaster. A Maskil of the sons of Korah.”

The sons of Korah were a group of priests who were charged with the ministry of singing 2 Chronicles 20:19, describes them in action: “The Korahites, stood up to praise the Lord, the God of Israel, with a very loud voice.”

So the heading implies that this psalm was probably used in public worship and was sung. The psalms are songs. They are poems. They are written to awaken and express and shape the emotional life of God’s people. Poetry and singing exist because God made us with emotions, not just thoughts. Our emotions are massively important.

The second thing to notice in the heading is that the psalm is called a “maskil.” It’s not clear what the word means. That’s why most versions don’t translate it. It comes from a Hebrew verb that means to make someone wise , or to instruct . So when applied to psalms, it may mean a song that instructs , or a song that is wisely crafted . That reminds us that the psalms intend to instruct. “Blessed is the man whose delight is in the instruction of the Lord, and on his instruction he meditates day and night.”

So “To the choirmaster. A Maskil of the Sons of Korah” underlines these two truths:

· The psalms are instruction

· The psalms are songs.

And Jesus taught that they were inspired by God. They intend to shape what the mind thinks, and they intend to shape what the heart feels. When we immerse ourselves in them, we are “thinking and feeling with God.”

Join us at St. Paul’s on Mother’s Day (May 13) for more on Psalm 42 and a message entitled, “Spiritual Depression and Hope in the Psalms” – Believe me this message is not just for moms. It is for moms, dads, and the rest of us!!

Before that – this coming Sunday is an Ascension Day (Jesus ascending into heaven) Message you will not want to miss… “Up, Up and A Way Among Us.” Sunday May 6, 2018 at St. Paul’s @ 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

God bless your week

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 4.22

Sun, 22 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For the Week of April 22-28, 2018

The Word: Psalm 126

Psalm 126:2-3, “Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then they said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.” 3 The Lord has done great things for us; we are glad.” ESV

I came upon this blog from the former president of our Synod, Rev. Gerald Kieschnick. He received it from his wife who received it from a friend!! It’s entitled, The Lighter Side of Life. Here’s a sample. If you want the full post, toss me an email and I will forward it to you!

My goal for 2018 was to lose just 10 pounds. Only 15 more to go!!

Ate salad for dinner, mostly croutons and tomatoes…actually just one big, round crouton covered with tomato sauce….and cheese. OK, it was a pizza. I ate a pizza!
How to prepare Tofu: Throw it in the trash and grill some meat.

I just did a week’s worth of cardio after walking into a spider web.

A study found that women who carry extra weight live longer than men who mention it.

A thief broke into my house last night. He started searching for money, so I woke up and searched with him.

God bless your day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

P.S. Pray also for an awesome Financial Workshop coming to St. Paul's called, "The Top Ten Ways to Give to Your Church Without Writing a Check." Presenter David Bennett shared this workshop with our leaders. They have been inspired and moved by his presentation. Put this date on your calendar...Sunday, June 3, 2018, beginning at 11:30 a.m. with lunch!

Kal's Korner 4.15

Sun, 15 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For the Week of April 15th-21st, 2018

The Word: Philippians 2:12-13, “Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.” ESV

I’ve been reading through Dallas Willard’s, “Divine Conspiracy.” I recommend it highly. Just keep at it. It takes some work to process some of the powerful insights. One of those clarifying truths comes in the teaching on grace.

Dallas debunks the myth that “Grace opposes effort.” If it’s “all about grace” then clearly it’s not about effort. Or so it seems.

But, as Dallas Willard said, “Grace is not opposed to effort, it is opposed to earning.”

Christians therefore, should work hard, strive, and toil—but we do so not for grace but from grace. Because of the gospel we are motivated not by guilt but by gratitude. And the gospel is the greatest motivating power in the world, propelling followers of Christ to love their neighbor, do justice, and share the gospel. Philippians 2:12-13 describes this type of grace-driven effort: “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.”

Now this gives motivation for a life lived in Christ, for His glory, for His purpose all out of praise for His surpassing grace.

Finally, grace is not just receiving God’s gifts, it is receiving Him! God is the giver and the gift – wow. That’s grace. Amen!

God bless you in your journey in Christlikeness.

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

P.S. Pray for a small group of Jr. High students who will be headed out this week-end for St. Paul’s confirmation retreat.

P.S.S. Pray also for an awesome Financial Workshop coming to St. Paul's called, "The Top Ten Ways to Give to Your Church Without Writing a Check." Presenter David Bennett shared this workshop with our leaders. They have been inspired and moved by his presentation. Put this date on your calendar...Sunday, June 3, 2018.

Kal's Korner 4.8

Sun, 08 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For the Week of April 8th-14th, 2018

The Word: John 20

John 20:18-22. “Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: "I have seen the Lord!"

Greetings all in the Name of the Lord.

He is Risen. He is Risen, Indeed! It has been my prayer that the victory we celebrated on Easter Sunday be one of lasting victory and celebration in each life beyond just Easter Sunday. Our task as fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ is not just a coming together for great music, song, and fellowship and an awesome Easter Egg Dash!! We are being sent! As God had sent forth His very own Son, so now the Son, Jesus sends us.

Check out the account from the first Easter in John 20:18-22. “Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: "I have seen the Lord!" And she told them that he had said these things to her. 19 On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!" 20 After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord. 21 Again Jesus said, "Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you." 22 And with that he breathed on them and said, "Receive the Holy Spirit.” NIV

Jesus shares “peace” to their troubled hearts again and again and He shares His very own Holy Spirit to empower them and us in this great task of being sent!

God bless your day as He sends you in His Name. “Sent by Jesus.”

That’s adds some importance to your day - every day!!

God bless,

Pastor Kal

P.S. Don’t forget about CLASS 301 – Discovering My Ministry. This coming Sunday, April 15 in the Sanctuary. Time: 11:15 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Kal's Korner 4.1

Sun, 01 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For the Week of April 1st-7th, 2018

Easter 2018

The Word: John 16

John 16:33, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Greetings to each of you in the Name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior! As we celebrated the Season of Easter once again there was the prayer for clear weather and Easter Sunday was stunningly clear and beautiful. Next year join us for our awesome

Easter Sunrise Worship. The hope we have as Christians goes far beyond our hope for clear weather!

The HOPE OF EASTER is:

“ETERNAL”
“GOD WITH US”
“GOD FOR US”

For such a great hope to have an impact on our lives it must be internal as well as eternal! The Apostle John shares with us some incredibly comforting words of peace that Jesus shared before going to the cross for your sins and mine.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27)

Peace in the midst of the storms is the work of God for those whose hope is anchored in Jesus. In fact, Jesus assured the early disciples that,

“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

How can you and I know for certain that our hope in God is sure and not just “wishful” thinking? I will answer your doubt with these two sure truths that express well the foundation for our certainty in God’s love with us and for us in Christ Jesus:

(1) Jesus was held to the cross not by nails but by love!

(2) The stone that blocked the tomb of Jesus was opened from the inside!

I just love the creativity of these two truths about the love and power of God. The stone was rolled away on that first Easter morning to let us see God powerfully at work in raising Jesus from the dead! Jesus had won! He had lived the kind of life that you and I were meant to have lived but cannot and paid the price for sin so that we need not!

What massive stone is blocking God, his love and his power out of your life?

Is it your questions of injustice? … He’s been there ... crucified for your sins and mine.
Is it some temptation to sin? To give in? ... “He tempted in every way as we, yet without sin.” (Hebrews 4:15)
Is it some trial in your life that seems so great or unbearable? ... “My Father, if it be possible may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” (Matt 26:39)

Dear friends, as you contemplate the struggles, hurts, fears of all your days hear again with your heads as well as your hearts these words of hope given by the angels on that first Easter Morning. Read these next words s l o w l y!

“Do not be afraid, for I know you are looking for Jesus ... He is not here; He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you ...!” (Matthew 28:5-7)

God is not dead. God is not distant. He has risen! He is going ahead of you! Will you pause for just a moment and pray this prayer?

“God lead us as your church, as your people, as your own disciples on this grand rescue event – Connecting Others to Jesus for Life!

Easter Hope to each of you,

Pastor Waetzig

P.S. Don’t forget to sign up for CLASS 301 – Discovery My Spiritual Gifts. Sunday, April 15.

Kal's Korner 3.25

Sun, 25 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The Week of Mar. 25th-31st, 2018

The Word: Matthew 27

Matt. 27:46: “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?”

Greetings in the Name of Jesus.

There is a shift before us in mind and spirit this Holy Week. We shift from praise and proclamation of Palm Sunday to a time of solitude and silence for Holy Week. From “Hosanna to the Son of David, blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord!” to reflection on Jesus journey to the cross for our sins.

As we enter into this new week we are keenly aware of the significance of this pre-Easter week for us Christians. It is often called, Holy Week. The events of this week are the very ones God promised would happen. The gift of Jesus to the world for our sins came to full fulfillment.

I want you to understand the fullness of this biblical truth.

What happened to Jesus on the cross? He was crucified, of course. He was executed. He suffered, He shed blood, and He died. And He did all this in our behalf, as our substitute. This is all true. This we know.

But you also need to know that the Bible points us to the truth that God the Father and God the Son, in their intense love for us, even went beyond what we call, “the supreme sacrifice.” Even greater than Jesus described as extreme: laying down His life for us. (John 15:13)

Among the strangest of Jesus’ words from the cross is His cry recorded in Matt. 27:46: “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” Jesus accuses the Father of deserting Him in the hour of crisis, of turning His back on Him right when He was most needed; and Jesus reacts with a heart-rending “Why?”

Isaiah 53 reminds us that Jesus not only was punished by men but was also “smitten by God” (v. 4)

What is going on?

2 Corinthians 5:21 give us the answer! In that time on the cross, the pure and holy Jesus, “who knew no sin,” was made to be sin for us. Innocent as He was and loved of the Father as He was, Jesus, nevertheless, was in that moment teeming with sin—our sins, every last one of them. While from our point of view Jesus was absolutely innocent, from God’s point of view He was guilty, guilty because the Father looked at Him and saw our sins, the sins Jesus had voluntarily taken upon Himself.

Galatians 3:13, “Jesus was made a curse for us.” To be accursed by God is to be abandoned by God in terms of His grace, mercy, and love. Physical death is the cessation of biological life; to be abandoned by God is spiritual death, the ultimate experience of the wrath of God over sin…to put it plainly, Jesus suffered hell.

God loved us so much that He was willing to pay the cost of thrusting His own dear Son into our misery, hell and death and having Him drink that cup. This is the way we are saved.

Before He died, of course, Jesus and His Father were reconciled. Since Jesus had paid the full penalty for sin, death and hell, since His task was “finished” (John 19:30), He was reinstated into the family of God. “Father, into your hands I commend My spirit” were Jesus’ last words (Luke 23:46), a description of the relationship between Him and the Father that was powerfully confirmed three days later when Jesus rose from the grave!!

God’s blessings on your Holy Week into Easter.

Pastor Kal

P.S. Don't forget –

Holy Week Worship

o Maundy Thursday Worship @ 7:00 p.m.

o Prayer Vigil Thursday - 8:00 p.m. – 12 Midnight.

o Prayer Vigil Friday – 5:00 a.m. – 12 Noon

o Good Friday Worship @ 7:00 p.m.

Easter Sunday – April 1, 2018

o Easter Sunrise Worship @ 6:30 a.m.

o Easter Breakfast @ 7:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

o Easter Worship @ 8:30 a.m.

o Easter Egg Hunt 1 @ 9:30 a.m.

o Easter Worship @ 10:30 a.m.

o Easter Egg Hunt 2 @ 11:30 a.m.

Kal's Korner 3.18

Sun, 18 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For the Week of Mar. 18th- 24th, 2018

The Word: Matthew 21:1-11

Matthew 21:5, ““Say to the daughter of Zion, ‘Behold, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, he foal of a beast of burden.’”

Can you believe it? Palm Sunday is here!
(I borrowed the following story from our dear pastor friend, Rev. Ed Krueger, Emmanuel, Clovis CA)
A few years ago, the devotional guide, Our Daily Bread, carried a story of a pastor who was also a traveling evangelist who rode a donkey as he traveled from village to village in Brazil preaching the gospel. One day the evangelist fell asleep in the saddle as he made his return home after a tiring day. A couple of hours later he was rudely awakened by the roughness of the ride. His donkey had left the trail and was walking through a rocky field. At first the pastor was angry, but he calmed down when he saw that they were almost back to his village.

When he arrived at his church, the pastor learned that friends had gathered to pray for his safety. A rancher who was opposed to the Christian faith had sent some men to attack the evangelist at a bend in the trail. They thanked God for causing the donkey to take a shortcut home.

Donkeys are interesting. They have been used as a working animal for at least 5000 years. Of course, the reason I'm focusing on donkeys is that the Old Testament Prophet Zechariah prophesied that one day the Messiah would arrive on a donkey. Zechariah 9:9 says, "Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey." Which is quoted by Matthew in chapter 21. And that is exactly what happened.

The disciples brought a young donkey to Jesus, threw their cloaks over it, and he sat on it. Many people spread their cloaks on the road, while others spread branches they had cut in the fields. Those who went ahead and those who followed shouted, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David! Hosanna in the highest heaven!"

It is a beautiful story. It is a story of great humility. On the other side of the city, Pilate was entering the city on a great stallion, while Jesus was riding into the city on a young and unbroken donkey. A security force of Roman soldiers bearing swords and shields and heavy armor surrounded Pilate. Jesus entered the city surrounded by unarmed peasants waving palm branches, the symbol of peace. Pilate's soldiers sneered; Jesus' followers sang, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" No greater contrast can be made between the kingdom of this world and the kingdom of God. Brute force versus gentle peace!

Jesus was a man of great humility. When Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a young donkey, he set into motion events that he knew were irreversible. They resulted in his crucifixion and death. He did it out of love for you and me. "Greater love has no one than this," says John 15:13, "to lay down one's life for one's friends." We are Christ's friends. Not because of any virtue that we have, but through his amazing love for all God's children.

Join us this Sunday at St. Paul’s, March 25, 2018 @ 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m. for “People of the Passion” Read these scriptures in advance!: Malachi 3:6-7a, Hebrews 13:1-8, Matthew 21:1-9, Matthew 27:1-4.

P.S. Don't forget –

Easter Choir practice (last one on Tuesday, March 20 @ 7:45 p.m.)

Holy Week Worship
o Maunday Thursday Worship @ 7:00 p.m.

o Prayer Vigil Thursday - 8:00 p.m. – 12 Midnight.

o Prayer Vigil Friday – 5:00 a.m. – 12 Noon

o Good Friday Worship @ 7:00 p.m.

Easter Sunday – April 1, 2018
o Easter Sunrise Worship @ 6:30 a.m.

o Easter Breakfast @ 7:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

o Easter Worship @ 8:30 a.m.

o Easter Egg Hunt 1 @ ca 9:30 a.m.

o Easter Worship @ 10:30 a.m.

o Easter Egg Hunt 2 @ ca 11:30 a.m.

Kal's Korner 3.4

Sun, 04 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For the Week of Mar. 4-10, 2018

The Word: 2 Chronicles 7:14

2 Chronicles 7:14, “if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” ESV

Pray fervently for the security of our nation, and for our schools, churches, and all public venues. Psalm 91:1, “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.” ESV

“Lord, we plead with you to protect our schools, churches and all public venues…

restrain all evil in America
comfort all persons who lost loved ones in recent tragedies, including the school tragedy in Florida
guide our leaders to work together in ways that make lives safer for all
protect us from ongoing threats from North Korea and Russia, move all to peaceful resolution
we ask for you to restrain all evil and secure our nation from all external enemies
we plead for you O Lord to move our nation to pursue God and live under the protecting shadow of our Most High God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen.”

Join us this Sunday at St. Paul’s, March 11, 2018 @ 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m. for “Our Story Within God’s Grand Story.”

Read these scriptures in advance!: Daniel 9:20-26, Colossians 1:15-20, John 14:1-6

P.S. Don't forget –

Easter Choir practice on Tuesdays @ 7:45 p.m.
Relay for Life Chili/Rib Cook-Off. Saturday March 10 @ 5:00 p.m.
Mission’s Conference – Sat. March 17 @ 9:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Holy Week Worship

o Maunday Thursday Worship @ 7:00 p.m.

o Prayer Vigil Thursday - 8:00 p.m. – 12 Midnight .

o Prayer Vigil Friday – 5:00 a.m. – 12 Noon

o Good Friday Worship @ 7:00 p.m.

Easter Sunday – April 1, 2018

o Easter Sunrise Worship @ 6:30 a.m.

o Easter Breakfast @ 7:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

o Easter Worship @ 8:30 a.m.

o Easter Egg Hunt 1 @ ca 9:30 a.m.

o Easter Worship @ 10:30 a.m.

o Easter Egg Hunt 2 @ ca 11:30 a.m.

Kal's Korner 2.25

Sun, 25 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For the Week of Feb. 25th-Mar. 3rd, 2018

The Word: John 19:17-22 – Pilate the Stubborn – “What I Have Written…”

John 19:17-22, “So the soldiers took charge of Jesus. Carrying his own cross, he went out to the place of the Skull. Here they crucified him, and with him two others—one on each side and Jesus in the middle. Pilate had a notice prepared and fastened to the cross. It read: JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS. Many of the Jews read this sign, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and the sign was written in Aramaic, Latin and Greek. The chief priests of the Jews protested to Pilate, “Do not write ‘THE KING OF THE JEWS’, but that this man claimed to be king of the Jews. Pilate answered, “What I have written, I have written.”" (NIV)

In times of conflict we often convince ourselves that we are merely being firm, when in fact we are operating more of stubbornness or just plain spite. It is our way of “getting even.” Our interest is in maintaining just how “right” we are.

In this condition we can so easily lose perspective. We refuse to face the facts. We really do not want the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. So we keep digging a deeper hole of stubbornness for ourselves. Stubborn ones are always right in their own minds and relationships suffer greatly from a lack of contrition and this one simple renewing phrase: “I’m so sorry.”

It doesn’t have to be this way. Consider the lives of Daniel in the Old Testament, or Paul in the New Testament, or Martin Luther at the time of the Reformation, or Billy Graham in our generation. Consider the life of Jesus from Philippians 2:8, “And being found in human form, he [Jesus] humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death even death on a cross."

Pray with me… “Oh Lord God, we confess to you our pride. We confess our stubborn, unyielding hearts to you and to others around us. Invite us into your loving embrace for us in Jesus. Remind us again of the price paid for our sins. Move us to contrition and humility. Restore our relationship to you and to others. In the Name of Jesus. Amen.

To learn more…join us in worship at St. Paul’s this coming Sunday, March 4, 2018 @ 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

P.S. Don't forget –

Easter Choir practice on Tuesdays @ 7:45 p.m.

Relay for Life Chili/Rib Cook-Off. Saturday March 10 @ 5:00 p.m.

CNH District Mission’s Conference – Saturday March 17 @ 9:30 a.m.

Holy Week Worship – Thursday & Friday @ 7:00 p.m. with Prayer Vigil

Easter Sunday – April 1.

God bless you this day

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 2.11

Sun, 11 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For the Week of February 11th-17th, 2018

The word Mark 15 – Simon of Cyrene…

Mark 15:21-22, “A certain man from Cyrene, Simon, the father of Alexander and Rufus, was passing by on his way in from the country, and they forced him to carry the cross. 22 They brought Jesus to the place called Golgotha (which means The Place of the Skull). (NIV)

There is no other person who ever journeyed from the country to the city to see and do what Simon did. There is no one else who met the crowd as he did that day outside of Jerusalem. There is no other person who carried the cross on which Jesus died. This shameful experience gave Simon a story to tell that is absolutely unique.

Though unique, Simon’s experience is a thoroughly human experience….

On any given day, we too may be about our lives carefree, excited, and moving about…broad shoulders carrying no burden…then something happens to change all that. And like a bolt of lightening, all our plans get knocked down. We find ourselves going in a direction that we never would have chosen for ourselves. Life can be like that. Events happened to change the plan. Do you react with bitterness, anger, resignation, or resolve?

Let’s talk about this – St. Paul’s – Sunday, Feb. 18, 2018 @ 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

God bless you this day
In Jesus
Pastor Kal

Kal's Korner 2.4

Sun, 04 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For the Week of Feb. 4th-10th, 2018

The Word: 2 Peter 1

2 Peter 1:19, “And we have the prophetic word more fully confirmed, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts…” ESV

There are some key events in our lives that help transform our lives. These are the times where we get a glimpse of our God and His goodness…times that give us perspective and ultimately move us to thanksgiving and joy.

In the 1st week of my marriage I lost my wedding ring in Lake of Ozarks. A day or two went by and I was moping around bemoaning the fact that I would never get that ring back. I was sad. Yes, I could replace it with another, still it just didn't seem as good, right, or noble. The ring wasn’t extremely valuable in terms of $’s, but it was dear to me because it was made by my brother-in-law and it was the only ring that would be from the original wedding.

The value of something is not determined by how much it appreciates, but by how much it is appreciated.

Finding Reference Points…When we see the same blessings every day; we eventually can stop noticing them. When we stop noticing them, we can stop valuing them. When we stop valuing them, we can start complaining.

Let’s talk Sunday, Feb. 11, 2018 @ St. Paul's (8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.) about how to keep from going down this path. I so look forward to sharing several reference points to help place mental price tags to help us see the value of our blessings. #can’twaitforsunday!!

God bless your week

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

P.S. Also don’t forget to make time for our CLASS 201 Seminar – this coming Sunday, Feb. 11, 2018 @ 11:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Making a commitment to mature in your relationship to Jesus Christ. Lunch is included. You may want to bring a small snack or lunch for your children if they do not like deli type sandwiches!!

Kal's Korner 1.31

Thu, 01 Feb 2018 22:47:36 GMT

For the Week of January 28th-February 3rd

Rom. 6:6-7, “We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. For one who has died has been set free from sin.” ESV

I think one of the great falsehoods of Christian thinking is that moral and spiritual failure are always and automatically a part of our human life. We think that whatever temptation we are battling will always be a battle, one that is impossible to overcome.

Such thinking leads us into despair and apathy:

“what’s the use”
“I’ll always be…broken, useless, failure, screw-up…”

We think that to truly live a Christ-like life is hard. In fact, we are tempted to think it’s impossible.

The Scripture teaches us …

Mark 10:27, ““With man it is impossible, but not with God. For all things are possible with God.” ESV

Personal transformation of our human will clears the way forward in progressive conformity to the character of Christ.

Being with Jesus, learning to be like Jesus, can transform our wills. This transformation is the greatest thing that could ever happen to any of us.

For more … join us - St. Paul’s - this Sunday – Feb. 4, 2018 @ 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m.

God bless

In Jesus

Pastor Kal

P.S. Read ahead!! Psalm 131:1-3, Romans 6:1-14, Luke 6:39-40