Gospel Highlight

In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah when he said, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord; make His paths straight.'” Now John wore a garment of camel’s hair and a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey. Then Jerusalem and all Judea and all the region about the Jordan were going out to him, and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. Matthew 3:1-6

You know, I’ve often wondered how the Baptizer’s message might be received today.

Sure, the news media would give him some coverage. They would, for a while, treat him like they would an act from a circus sideshow. Dressed in camel skins, John would be both applauded by the fashion industry and vilified by those who believe animals are people too. Eating locusts and wild honey would bring him both criticism and commendation.

But would anyone listen to his message about repentance?

If you put him on the radio or on TV, I don’t think it would take too long before people would turn the channel. Today the preachers who are popular are the ones who never mention original sin, actual sin, or our need to repent. They don’t talk about a Savior from sin because they don’t like to talk about transgression.

No, most of today’s TV preachers wouldn’t have John as a guest on their show. They would consider him too unpredictable, too pushy, too strong, too one-cause. The Baptizer’s idea of a repentant heart doesn’t leave much room for those who think of God as a cosmic Christmas wish book. The Baptizer’s belief of the need for contrition wouldn’t agree with those who say we’re all okay just the way we are.

It doesn’t make any difference that corruption is uncontrolled; scandal remains excessive; perversion is prospering; the family is floundering, and things are going from bad to worse. In spite of the facts, in spite of the Bible and our own consciences, humanity still clings to the idea we’re doing just fine. Besides, repentance is only for the weak and helpless.

To those who feel this way, Scripture offers this reminder: Jesus didn’t come into this world to live for those who were doing just fine on their own. There was no reason for God’s innocent Son to suffer beatings for those who were self-sufficient. There was no purpose in Him dying and rising for those who could take care of sin, death and devil on their own and without any assistance from Him.

No, Jesus came to be the Physician for those who were sick, to be the Way for those who were lost, to be the Truth for those who were confused, and to be the Gate for those were shunned.

Jesus came to be the sinful soul’s Savior from all that is evil. Jesus came to save sinners, to create new hearts, to clean consciences, and to make a change in our lives.

That is what God’s Son does with a heart that is repentant. He forgives sins, moves believing souls from hell to heaven.

He makes changes.

(This devotion is from the Lutheran Hour Archives)

JESUS CONNECTIONS
A Fresh Start!

When we make wrong choices, God invites us to repent—that means being truly sorry and asking Him for forgiveness. He loves giving us a clean, new start! God’s kingdom is near, and He wants our hearts ready to follow Him with joy, kindness, and a desire to grow closer to Him every day.

Turn your heart back to God!

Fellowship for Sunday, December 7
 bars by Any Name


 We're crazy about dessert bars! They're so easy to make—often a lot easier than baking cookies—and it's a snap to double or triple recipes when you need to serve a crowd. From indulgent chocolate peanut butter bars, rich cheesecake-style bars, to zingy lemon bars and other classic crumb bars, there are easy recipes you'll rely on again and again when preparing for the holidays.
 Stressed spelled backwards is DESSERTS! Which way do you want to go?

Prayer Requests

Lord, provide healing, peace, strength, comfort, and understanding…   

Aaron Byers – Diagnosed with Metastatic Melanoma. Prayers for continued treatment.

Helen Cantrell – Pray for comfort as she continues treatment due to health issues.

Eddie Henson – Prayers of thanks for a successful surgery.

Mathew Eisinger – Prayers for Pastor Jake & Alyssa’s son, Mathew Eisinger, as he deploys with the Army to Poland on Sept. 16th, for 9 months. May the Lord keep him safe on his deployment & return safely home.

Johnston Family – For peace, comfort, and strength as they mourn the loss of Carloline, wife and mother, who passed away on Wednesday, November 26th.

Stanton family – For peace, strength, and comfort as they mourn the loss of Bruce, who recently passed away unexpectedly.

Sarah Kalaveras – Having knee replacement; may God give the Doctors and staff strength and wisdom while performing the surgery, and may He lay His healing hands on Sarah for a quick recovery.

Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayers.

Prayer requests can now be sent to stmarkelko@gmail.com.

Men's Fellowship Breakfast

Gentlemen, it’s time for food, faith, and fellowship!  Join us this Friday, December 5th, 8:30 a.m. @ Toki Ona for a delicious breakfast, great conversation, and time to grow together in faith.

This is a wonderful chance to connect with other men, share experiences, and encourage each other in our walk with Christ. Everyone is welcome, whether you're new or a long-time member!

Bring a friend, and let’s make it a morning to remember! 

Have you seen Jesus?

During the season of Advent, a small Jesus figure will be placed somewhere in the sanctuary. If you locate Jesus, please bring Him to Pastor Jake and receive your reward. 

The Jesus search continues...

LWML Christmas Mission

The LWML Christmas Mission at St. Mark Lutheran Church is once again supporting DCFS through their annual Christmas Tree campaign. The tree will be up this Sunday, and this year we have six girls, ages 4 to 15, who are in need of Christmas gifts.

Each tag on the tree represents one of these children—an opportunity to share Christ’s love in a meaningful and personal way. You can take a tag to shop for a specific gift or select a gift card tag to let them choose something special themselves. If you prefer, help with shopping or gift wrapping is also available.

If you have any questions, please contact Lynn Maple.  All gifts and donations should be turned in at the Cry Room by Sunday, December 14th.

Join us in making a difference—your generosity helps brighten a child’s Christmas!

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