This week at Hope 2/8/2021

Yesterday in worship we observed the Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany and heard how “everyone is looking for Jesus.” At that time it was because the Lord was healing diseases and throwing out demons. People wanted His power to make their lives better. In our time we certainly look to Jesus when we are in physical and mental distress. Often, though, this is only after we have exhausted our efforts and strength. How would it be to look for Jesus at all times and in all places? Seeing every person and event and activity throughout the day as occasions to encounter the living Lord? We can confess our failings not always to turn to Christ, and together we can encourage one another to fix our eyes on Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith.

We celebrated the 60^th Anniversary of Hope’s Dorcas Circle yesterday. Now would be a good time to join in their next meeting this Wednesday at noon in the Parish Hall. Get on board for the next 60 years of fellowship and service!

Ash Wednesday and the beginning of the season of Lent is February 17. We will have worship service with Holy Communion at both 11:30 am and 6:30 pm on Ash Wednesday. Midweek Wednesday devotional services will continue throughout the season. The Board of Elders has been tasked with contacting the members on their care lists to determine the viability of in-person evening services (with no meals). This means a very definite commitment that you would attend the 6:30 services. If you have not yet heard from your Elder, feel free to reach out to him.

Further growth opportunities—Deaconess Sharon and Eileen Klein are preparing a finely-crafted Caregivers seminar to meet the needs of present circumstances. DCE Carl Repp is looking into hosting an online Financial Peace University. Both of these are slated to begin sometime in March. Be on the lookout for registration details.

Concordia University Texas invites you to this year’s Concordia Crossing and their Church Relations events on March 5-7. Worship, Preserve Tours, Athletic Events, Celebrate Concordia, and more. Register online at concordia.edu/crossing.

Scripture readings for Sunday—Exodus 34:29-35; 2 Corinthians 3:12—4:6; Mark 9:2-9.

Birthdays—2/12 Mikaya Bronson; 2/13 Glenn Hohle

Anniversaries—

“Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength; they will fly up on wings like eagles; they will run and not be tired; they will walk and not be weary.” Isaiah 40

Pastor Heckmann