Zion Lutheran Church

The Season of Epiphany

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 15:54:15 GMT

Epiphany is MORE than just a DAY... it is a SEASON!

1 Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men[a] from the east came to Jerusalem, 2 saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose[b] and have come to worship him.” Matthew 2:1-2

Many people think of Epiphany as just a single day in the life of the church that follows 12 days after Christmas (hence the popular song “The Twelve Days of Christmas” is about the days AFTER Christmas, not about the “gift-buying” season).

But, while there is a specific day on our calendar, January 6, for the FEAST Day, Epiphany is an entire SEASON of the church year. The season begins with evening prayer on January 5 and ends (February 17, 2026) the Tuesday (Shrove Tuesday) before Ash Wednesday. The Feast of the Transfiguration of Our Lord (February 15, 2026) is the Last Sunday after Epiphany.

During Epiphany, we worship Jesus, who has given all mankind access to God through Himself.

The word “Epiphany” comes from Greek roots that mean "to show, to display" (phainein) and "on, to" (epi-) . An epiphany is thus a time when something is shown, displayed, or manifested to an audience.

We often see this pictured only as the magi coming to see the baby Jesus (see Matthew 2) . The season, however, is much more than that – it is the celebration of the manifestation of God in human form, being displayed to ALL nations – and so, the nations come… During this season, we have the events of Jesus’ baptism and His Transfiguration, both times when God spoke from above “This is My Son…”. Of note is that these events were out in the open and public places – and not in the Temple at Jerusalem.

During this Season of Epiphany, we rejoice that Jesus came for – and presented to – ALL people. And so, it is our task to share that Good News with those around us. This year, let’s not keep Epiphany to ourselves, but make it a point to be SHARING the Love and Grace of Christ as we invite others to join the family of God through knowing Jesus.

Epiphany Blessings in Christ,

Pastor Jim

Rev. James Kirschenmann, Pastor

Zion Lutheran Church

Hope That Overlfows

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 22:56:39 GMT

May the GOD of HOPE Fill You...

In uncertain times, we all search for hope. We look to our circumstances, our abilities, or our plans. But the apostle Paul points us to a different source.

In Romans 15:4, Paul reminds us that "whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope." God's Word isn't just ancient history—it's His living promise to us today. Every page of Scripture points to Jesus Christ, who came to fulfill God's promises and bring salvation to all people.

Paul explains that Christ welcomes both Jews and Gentiles so that together we might "glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Romans 15:6-7) . This unity in Christ demonstrates God's faithfulness to His promises. He doesn't abandon His people; He includes us in His family through faith.

Then comes Paul's powerful benediction: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope" (Romans 15:13).

Notice who gives hope: the God of hope Himself. Notice how: through the Holy Spirit's power as we trust in Christ. Notice the result: we overflow with hope, joy, and peace.

This isn't wishful thinking or positive attitude. This is rock-solid confidence in God's promises fulfilled in Jesus—His death for our sins, His resurrection for our justification. When Christ rose from the dead, He guaranteed our future.

Today, whatever challenges you face, receive this gift: hope that overflows, given by God Himself through faith in Jesus Christ.

Pastor Jim

Pastor Jim Kirschenmann

THANKS LIVING

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 16:08:53 GMT

Living Thanks with a New Vision!

THANKS LIVING

³ We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, ⁴ since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints, ⁵ because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. - Colossians 1:3-5

What an exciting time for our congregation! On October 12, 2025, at our Voters Meeting, we came together and agreed on where God is calling us to go. Our new VISION STATEMENT and strategic framework are now official, and we're ready to move forward together!

But here's the important part: this isn't just about plans and paperwork. This is about how we LIVE out our faith every single day. Our Vision has three powerful components that show what it means to follow Jesus in our community:

SERVING BOLDLY ,
CONNECTING DEEPLY ,
and TRANSFORMING COMMUNITY in the Love and Grace of Christ.

Think about what this could look like in your daily life. How might God be calling you to serve boldly? Where can you connect more deeply with your brothers and sisters in Christ? How can you help transform our community through simple acts of love and grace?

As Thanksgiving approaches, I invite you to think beyond the turkey and football. Instead of just giving THANKS on one day, imagine what it would look like to practice THANKS LIVING every day—LIVING in a way that shows our grateful hearts through caring for others, serving our neighbors, and sharing Christ's love in practical ways.

This is our calling. This is our opportunity. Let's embrace it together!

Grace and Peace in Christ Jesus,

Pastor Jim
Pastor Jim Kirschenmann

Finding Our True Refuge

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 05:00:10 GMT

Where do we find refuge in times of trouble?

Finding Our True Refuge

"The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe." - Proverbs 18:10 (NKJV)

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." - Psalm 46:1 (ESV)

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As October's crisp air reminds us of life's changing seasons, these ancient words offer timeless comfort. Yet through Luther's theology of the cross, we understand that our refuge isn't found in worldly success or human wisdom, but in the crucified Christ alone.

The "strong tower" is not an escape from suffering, but God's presence within it. Luther taught us that God is most truly known not in glory, but hidden beneath the cross. When trials come—illness, loss, uncertainty—we don't run to a distant fortress. We run to the name of Jesus, who descended into our darkness to become our light.

This refuge is not earned by our righteousness. As Lutherans, we confess that we are simultaneously saint and sinner (simul justus et peccator) . The "righteous" who find safety are those clothed in Christ's righteousness alone, received through faith by grace.

Notice that God is our "very present help" —not sometimes present, not partially present, but fully and immediately present. In Word and Sacrament, Christ draws near to troubled hearts. In Holy Communion, He feeds us with His very body and blood. In Baptism's promise, He claims us as His own.

Luther reminds us that the cross reveals God's strange work—saving through apparent weakness, giving life through death, offering hope through suffering. When October's storms—literal or metaphorical—rage around us, we find our shelter not in avoiding the cross, but in the One who bore it for us.

In Christ's strong tower, you are safe.

Pastor Jim

Pastor Jim Kirschenmann

Connected and Connecting

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 16:31:25 GMT

Jesus said, "I am the vine; you are the branches..."

“I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5)

As we look toward the coming Back To Church Sunday, this year’s theme is “Life is Better Together.” The image of the vine with its branches comes to mind. And with that, we consider what it means in our lives …

When Jesus explained that He is the vine, he let us know that we should always stay connected to Him. The reason? That’s where we receive all that we need for true life. And the next part is also true – something we tend to ignore – our task as branches.

First, we are connected to Christ. Then we are connected to each other. Next, we are to be reaching out – connecting – with those around us. In this way, we can draw others into a relationship with Jesus, grafting them into the vine.

Is there someone you have met that could use a little more Jesus in their lives? Then invite them – and more than that – welcome them to join in a Life Group. Or simply develop the relationship over a meal. Do not be afraid to share Jesus!

However you begin, be “Connected and Connecting” as you go through this season. And remember…

Life is Better Together!

May you continue in making disciples in Christ,

Pastor Jim

Rev. James Kirschenmann, MDiv MBA

Zion Lutheran Church - Vassar

Exclusive Access?

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 14:30:00 GMT

But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. Ephesians 2:13

Pastor Jim

Pastor Jim Kirschenmann

Extending the Great Commission

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 15:23:52 GMT

Go therefore and make disciples...

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20)

There’s a story told - and I take it to be a parable because I hope it’s not true - of a country church which had a creeper - perhaps an ivy plant - growing up by the porch doorway. Over the doorway was a text carved in stone, "We preach Christ crucified".

Over the years the plant grew steadily, and a branch gradually spread over the doorway. The first word of the text covered by the leaves of the plant was "crucified" which reduced the text to "We preach Christ".

Well, we might think that’s unfortunate, but the essential part of our faith is still there. As time went on the branch spread further and covered over the word "Christ" .

Now, this was serious, but it seemed to go unnoticed, and the message of the church to the world outside was reduced to "We preach" - it really had no message; the church was merely a “talking shop.”

I pray that, as you hear the Word proclaimed at Zion in Vassar, you hear not only “We preach Christ crucified,…” but extending that to include the rest of the message… “… Risen, Ascended, and Returning.” For “… if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:14).

With that complete message, we hear of the hope we have and the hope we share – the forgiveness of all sins for all men for all time (eternity). So, as you go, be sure to share the WHOLE story.

May you continue in making disciples in Christ,

Pastor Jim

Rev. James Kirschenmann

Zion Lutheran Church, Vassar, Kansas

Planted in God

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 01:51:40 GMT

Planted in God

We have made it through… through the April showers, taking a moment or two to smell the flowers of May. Now June is suddenly upon us. Things are heating up… Opportunities are opening up (Hallelujah!)… Choices now abound… a constant parade of choices!

Remember that God’s mercies are new every morning. As you consider the many decisions that are facing you, be mindful of where your trust lies – what is the Source of your trust?

The prophet Jeremiah, speaking God’s word to the Israelites as they were coming out of exile, gave the following encouragement,

⁷ “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 its leaves remain green,
and is not anxious in the year of drought,
for it does not cease to bear fruit.”

- Jeremiah 17:7–8 (ESV):

Trust in the Lord and the outcomes are guaranteed.

Trusting in your abilities and knowledge and insight? Sure. But do not rely solely on those. This does not mean you do not apply yourself or consider the learnings from the past – what worked and what did not…

You do all of that. But you do it planted beside the stream of Living Water – planted in God as the Source.

Trusting in the Creator who made you to make decisions. Whose Son redeems you. Whose Spirit enables you to make wise choices. Pray for that wisdom. Seek His will. Let Him guide you.

Live – planted in the Source of all true prosperity. With that water, bear fruit year after year…

Peace and Joy in Christ,

Pastor Jim

Pastor Jim Kirschenmann, MDiv MBA

Easter Matters!

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 20:59:11 GMT

Easter Matters - Live You Life Because It Truly Does.

After reading the title above for the MAY newsletter, some of you are probably thinking that Pastor is more than one egg short of a complete basket! After all, Easter was in April, right?!

Then again, some of you (who were at the Easter Sunday service) are beginning to realize that Easter is continuing and is certainly MORE than just one day of the year.

And that is really the point of this month’s newsletter – EASTER is, indeed, still part of our daily lives. The Resurrection of Jesus Christ that we celebrate is more than can be contained in a single morning – it is all year long, every year. We can see it if we look for it. And we can embody it if we truly believe it.

Among the congregational activities this month, you will have many opportunities to fulfill your own expression of your resurrected life in Christ, and you are encouraged to share that with others.

Are you allowing your life to interrupted by God? Remember that we heard Dietrich Bonhoeffer write, “God will be constantly crossing our paths and canceling our plans by sending us people with claims and petitions.” (Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Life Together [San Francisco: Harper, 1954], 99).

St. Peter says, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have” (1 Peter 3:15).

So, are you giving everyone a reason to ask?

Consider how you might go about doing that in your daily life, and then share the things that have worked for you with your fellow members, so we can all learn new ways to continue to show that Easter [still] Matters in our daily lives.

Blessings in the Risen Christ,

Pastor Jim

Pastor Jim Kirschenmann

New Heavens and a New Earth

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 17:10:33 GMT

Springtime in this area can be both beautiful and hazardous ...

Springtime in this area can be both beautiful and hazardous, but always brings that sense of “newness.” Nature seems to awaken quickly as the colors of spring abound – trees bud out and leaves appear, flowers pop up from what seemed to be a completely dormant state. Birds, animals and even insects show renewed activity.

There is a certain excitement and energy that comes with all of this... Certainly, celebrating the Resurrection of our LORD in the middle of the month ( April 20 ) seems to provide an “exclamation point”!

In our readings, we will hear from the prophet Isaiah as he gives us God’s Word,

“For behold, I create new heavens

and a new earth,

and the former things shall not be remembered

or come into mind.”

We are reminded during our Lenten journey to repent, and bring all our sins to the foot of the cross of Christ, where he bears them in his body as it is crucified, taking the punishment we deserve. As he took our sins to the grave, he left them there, rising to New Life on the third day. Our creation story now becomes New – an eighth day of Re-Creation – and our life in Christ is a New Life.

As we rejoice in His Resurrection, we hear the promise of our own resurrection to come, on the Last Day. So, as we hear in Isaiah 65:18, “be glad an rejoice forever in that which [He]” Re-Creates… in Christ,

Pastor Jim

Pastor Jim Kirschenmann

Rend Your Heart...

zaizvjqrw32tgrsb1vkj (James Kirschenmann) — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 21:04:41 GMT

Rend Your Heart...

As we embark on this year’s Lenten Season, it is time, once again, to hear and obey the call that God places on our hearts... While February seems to be all about Love, Lent is a time to reflect on how we are acting in response to God’s love.

On Ash Wednesday we will here God speak through the prophet Joel:

“ … and rend your hearts …

Return to the LORD your God,

for he is gracious and merciful,

slow to anger, and abounding

in steadfast love…” Joel 2:13 (ESV)

So, what does it mean to “rend” our hearts? Those experiencing a heavy loss or extreme grief in the Old Testament would “rend” their garments – tear them apart, usually at the center of the chest – revealing their heart. To “rend” your heart, then, is to expose the inner most part of your being – to open up – and thus allow God to do His work in your life.

This is how we are to RETURN to the LORD – with a heart open to receive his steadfast love.

Psalm 51:7 (ESV ) states it this way…

“ The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit;

a broken and contrite heart,

O God, you will not despise.”

During this period of Lent in March, bring your broken and contrite heart. RETURN to the LORD, and receive the blessings of His grace and mercy, share in His abounding and steadfast love, those gifts given in the sacrifice of His son, Jesus Christ, to atone for your sins.

Let the Cross of Christ “mend the rend” of your heart! And be blessed to share such blessings with others.

Pastor Jim

Pastor Jim Kirschenmann

Love Is... the Ten Commandments

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 22:15:55 GMT

February, with Valentine’s Day, brings to mind the concept of “Love.”
What do you love?

I love teaching… and I love teaching Catechism Classes. So it is with great joy that I share with all of you what was recently shared with our latest class of catechumens, as we are going through our lessons on the Ten Commandments from Luther’s Small Catechism.

We often see the “two stone tablets” depicted as huge towering blocks that appear quite heavy. The image of something very “weighty” is appropriate for rules with such gravitas. But… I’ve always found it somewhat humorous that those big blocks only have Roman Numerals (I, II, III on one block and IV, V, VI, VII, VIII, IX, X on the other). You see, Rome (founded in 753 B.C.) was not even in existence at the time of Moses! And the tablets themselves had NO numbering (Hebrew uses letters instead of numbers)… More likely, the tablets themselves were sized as you see in this picture – able to be easily held in one hand and fit in a pocket. That kind of makes you wonder – what else have we mistaken about the Ten Commandments?

Most of the world probably thinks of them as “Thou Shalt Not” rules and restrictions.

But they are really all about LOVE. Romans 5:8 puts it this way…

“but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

It all boils down to this: God loves you AND your neighbor and your response is simply to reciprocate. As Jesus tells us in Matthew 22: 37 & 39… the first and greatest commandment is this:

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” (see also Deuteronomy 6:5).

And the second is like the first:

“You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (see also Leviticus 19:18).

So, the next time you think of the Ten Commandments, think of God’s LOVE.

Pastor Jim

Pastor Jim Kirschenmann

GOD IS DOING A NEW THING

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 17:42:45 GMT

Isaiah 43:18-19 (NIV): "See, I am doing a new thing!..."

GOD IS DOING A NEW THING

As we look toward the future, the theme for the year ahead involves transformation. The Bible, God’s WORD, speaks of this subject in many ways that help to guide us forward.

We find encouragement in the passage from the first testament as we read the prophet Isaiah speaking God’s WORD to the beleagured Israel then, and to us also today… from Isaiah 43:18-19 (NIV ):

“Forget the former things;

do not dwell on the past.

See, I am doing a new thing!

Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?

I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”

And how do we find that way? How do we navigate the wilderness and drink from the streams in the wasteland? Romans 12:2 provides one answer…

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

By staying in the WORD and allowing the WORD to get into you, this ‘new thing’ this ‘transformation’ is taking place. My certainty is with Paul as he writes to the Philippians:

And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.

Look to God and perceive the NEW things in your life this year.

Together we will follow the WAY, in Christ Jesus,

Pastor Jim

Pastor Jim Kirschenmann

GIVE AS GOOD AS YOU GET

zaizvjqrw32tgrsb1vkj (James Kirschenmann) — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 22:21:48 GMT

Acts 20:35 tells us, "It is more blessed to give than to receive..."

GIVE AS GOOD AS YOU GET

That phrase is often used in our secular world in a negative context; for example, in a third-person perspective of “[person] gives negative comments as effectively as those being dished out against [him/her/them]“… And so often the case is that we are proud of the fact that we can lambast another with a slur that tops whatever they said against us.

But… what if? What if this season we turn that around and flip it into a POSITIVE mindset? What if we were to build others up (see Ephesians 4:29 ), rather than tearing them down? What if we were to focus on what could make things better, instead of focusing on what does (or could) make things worse?

What if we were to GIVE hope, encouragement, trust, kindness, compassion, and care? And what if we were to become an example of that type of giving – all year ‘round? Would that make a difference in our world? (Sign up for “14 Days of Light” this month).

As we’ve been studying the Acts of the Apostles, we recently came across the following passage from Acts 20:35 (ESV):

In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

As you (hopefully) still have the remnants of Giving Thanks on top of mind, meditate also now on what God has given you (J ohn 3:16 ),

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

So, my encouragement for you this day, this month, this year (and the next) is to give an example, as the Apostle Paul did for us, and to remember that to ‘Give as good as you get’ also means you need to realize just how much you have been blessed – to the point of receiving eternal life… in paradise… with Christ Jesus!

Give even as it has been given to you… in Christ,

Pastor Jim

Pastor Jim Kirschenmann

THE WARMTH OF 'TOGETHER'

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 22:05:19 GMT

And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works...

Pumpkin Spice, s’mores around a campfire, a cozy blanket … all the things that come to my mind when the season turns to Autumn. This is the time of year when we shift from cooling ourselves in the heat of summer to warming ourselves on brisk evenings. And therein lies the contrast…

The difference between a Hot Seat (anxiety) and having heated seats (warmth) on a chilly morning.

There is a contrast in spices; chili peppers can be hot, while pumpkin spice creates warmth.

And so it is with those who believe in Christ.

Saying you are a Christian stands in contrast to being together in the Body of Christ.

Scripture tells us that WARMTH comes from gathering together:

²⁴ And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, ²⁵ not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. - Hebrews 10:24-25

Gathering together for the purpose of stirring up one another – creating warmth that spreads to all those we meet. I know I need that encouragement on a regular basis. How about you? What can you do to help “share the warmth” of Christ in your life today?

Stay Wrapped Up in Christ,

Pastor Jim

Pastor Jim Kirschenmann
Zion Lutheran Church – Vassar, KS

RE|NEW

Sun, 06 Oct 2024 20:57:25 GMT

RE|NEW Your Mind.

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2

As we enter October and the leaves begin to turn, my thoughts tend to turn toward the closing of the month. You know… that big day in Lutheran circles where we CELEBRATE the anniversary of another thing that begins with “RE…” It sort of follows along the lines of what the Apostle Paul is teaching in his letter to the Romans in chapter 12.

Thinking Differently… The difference between CONforming and TRANSforming needs to begin with REnewal of your mind. What you read, what you watch, what you discuss – all those things have a way impacting how you think. Individually or collectively, we need to be REformed constantly by the REnewing of our minds and how we live together as followers of Christ.

And so, this month, let’s take some time to lay out a plan and then take action to REnew our minds – to be transformed into the mind of Christ. Let’s encourage and be accountable to one another for a renewed focus on studying the WORD of God together.

A great way to do this is to come together in groups like our “Breakfast & Bibles” at Lamont Hill on Saturday mornings at 7:00 am, or our Adult Bible Study following Fellowship on Sunday mornings. This also could apply to your daily devotions at mealtime. Take a little time for a short devotion as you finish your meals together, and then close out with a word of Prayer – for each other. In so doing, we can begin to plan activities together – and then invite others to join you...

Doing things together, we will find that we can better “discern what is the will of God…” for our lives – as individuals, as a group, as a congregation – and move forward into a REFORMATION Celebration that is truly meaningful and has impact for this year and beyond.

May you be REFORMED and REnewed and RE:Vitalized in Christ,

Pastor Jim
Pastor Jim Kirschenmann

Hard to Hear?!

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 20:39:53 GMT

But if your heart turns away, and you will not hear, but are drawn away to worship other gods and serve them, I declare to you today, that you shall surely perish. Deut. 30:17-18a

In this Season after Pentecost, and especially in September this year, the words from Jesus are particularly hard to hear… they make us cringe as we are convicted of how wrongly we, like the religious leaders of Jesus’ day, are oriented – toward the ways of the world and not toward the ways of God.

These are hard words, but necessary for us to hear, as we are called to follow Christ and change our ways. Throughout the month of August, our WITNESS Sermon Series dealt with the “The Great Commission” and began with the phrase “Come and See | Go and Tell.”

Witness? You say… in what ways? The whole point is that, as Peter tells in his first epistle,

“you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” - (1 Peter 1:5)

Holy – meaning different – set apart – for God. As followers of Christ, we live a different life and have a different view of how the world SHOULD be. But there are times when these words are hard to hear… It is often so much easier to follow the world and go along with whatever others believe – don’t make waves, keep your head down, follow the crowd… but WITNESS?! That’s hard to do! And we fear the repercussions when we try.

Jesus, however, calls us to repentance and points us to His cross to see forgiveness and the true meaning of a love that lasts. When the Holy Spirit directs, that day will come… as the prophet Isaiah gives us words of hope,

“In that day the deaf shall hear the words of a book, and out of their gloom and darkness the eyes of the blind shall see.” Isaiah 29:18

With the gift of Faith, let us have ears to hear and eyes to see… and LIVE as God leads us, then WITNESS with the help of His Holy Spirit.

Pastor Jim Kirschenmann

Zion Lutheran Church - Vassar, KS

Savings...

Sat, 03 Aug 2024 15:45:00 GMT

Seems as though Summer just got started and suddenly we are seeing signs announcing “Back-to-School” and promoting “Savings!” As we think about education, rarely do we associate “savings,” but that, I propose, is the whole point. The more we learn about God, the more we are drawn closer to Him.

I was sitting the other day and waiting to visit with someone who has been saved, and the slideshow on the monitor flashed a couple of Bible Verses and then interspersed this quote, “You can’t save people, you can only love them.” The next thing that popped into my head was John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.” Sounds to me as though, when God is involved, being loved and being saved go hand-in-hand.

As Paul writes to his protégé Timothy, he encourages us, as well…

3 This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” – 1 Timothy 2:3-4

Now I will concede that you cannot argue someone into faith. Paul learned that as he was “debating with the Hellenistic Jews” in Acts 9. But what you can do is love them where they are at, then share the Gospel as the Holy Spirit presents opportunity. And pray. Pray without ceasing… Pray for All People, as Paul explains in 1 Timothy 2:1-2,

1 “ First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, 2 for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.”

So, in order that all should be saved, we pray… then speak, as the words are given to us, and the heart is prepared to receive the good word. May we pray without ceasing and be bold in our witness that all may come to know the truth – and be saved – in Christ Jesus.

May you continue in making disciples in Christ, that ALL may be saved.

Pastor Jim

Rev. James Kirschenmann

Making Significant Decisions

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 19:11:00 GMT

The apostles and the elders were gathered together to consider this matter. Acts 15:6

St. Luke’s record “The Acts of the Apostles” is not intended to be a prescription for the Church of every age, but does describe how God was at work in the Church at that time and place. One of the significant events that is recorded in chapter 15 is the Jerusalem Council. What took place at that point so early in the Church’s history still sets for us a pattern for how we make decisions.

Here are some of the things that are noted by St. Luke that occurred at the Council...

Gather together to hear the Word of God.
Engage in constructive debate about matters where there is not clear agreement – in an effort to reach agreement.
Report on what God is doing through His Church.
Make decisions guided by the Word of God.

Though we are far-removed from that convening of the Church, we continue to gather for those same type of functions. Our Congregational Meetings, at their most basic understanding, are for the purpose of being united in the Word of God which frames all of the reports, debates, and decisions that we gather to discuss.

The description we find in Acts 15 can also provide guidance to couples and families, church boards and even a congregation seeking to consider a Godly VISION of the future of ministry following a decision on a God-given MISSION statement.

When we gather for reasons apart from having our work guided and framed by the Word of God, then we have resorted to the ways of the world. However, our prayer is that all of our decisions as individuals, families, and the Church would be guided by the Word of God, for we know that the Word of the Lord endures forever . May that emphasis always mark our decision-making processes!

Prayer – Almighty and gracious God, we thank You that by Your Holy Spirit, You bless and guide those who assembled in Your name that all that that is done is according to Your good and gracious will and for the sake of Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

[The above is adapted from the “Encourage” devotion by Missouri District President, the Rev. Dr. R. Lee Hagan on June 15, 2022.]

Aaron's Staff Buds

Wed, 29 May 2024 20:37:00 GMT

And the rod of the man whom I choose shall bud… On the next day Moses went into the tent of the testimony, and behold, the staff of Aaron for the house of Levi had sprouted and put forth buds and produced blossoms, and it bore ripe almonds. (Numbers 17:5, 8)

The people of Israel grumbled in the wilderness, as they seemed to have disagreements about who was truly in charge. So, God had Moses take the staffs of the chiefs of each tribe and brought them into the tent of meeting. The one that God would make to bud was to be a clear indication for all of the one whom God had chosen to continue the priestly duties.

Following that sign from God, the people were afraid that this meant that they would die if anyone approached the tent of meeting. We sometimes meet people who lean to one extreme or the other (and often both), just as those Israelites did at the time of Moses. When that happens, it is important to remember that your own identity is IN CHRIST

We have a great high priest in Christ, the One chosen by God to be our substitute - to satisfy God’s wrath against all mankind. You have no need to fear or be afraid, because you have been redeemed and restored to a right relationship with the Father. This was done FOR you with the death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

So, is the Christ within you budding, blossoming, and bearing almonds, the fruit of the Resurrection?

May you bear fruit in Christ,

Pastor Jim

Rev. James Kirschenmann, Zion Lutheran Church

Pastor@ZionVassar.org

Zion Lutheran Church

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