NEXT WEEK’S READINGS . . . 2 Sam 22:26–34; 1 Cor 10:6–13; Luke 16:1–9.

ABOUT THIS WEEK’S READINGS . . . “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves” (Matt. 7:15). Deceit has its strength in masquerading as the truth. False prophets speak a vision of their own heart, not from the mouth of the Lord (Jer. 23:16–29). They deny the judgment of the Lord, speaking peace to the unrepentant, when in truth there is condemnation and wrath. “You will recognize them by their fruits” (Matt. 7:20). The “fruits” of a true prophet are not outward righteousness or success but faithfulness in proclaiming the Word of the Lord. This is the will of the Father in heaven, that pastors take heed to the flock, the Father’s adopted ones (Rom. 8:12–17), warning them against the wolves and their lies, and shepherding the Church of God which He purchased with His own blood (Acts 20:27–38). For indeed, the cross is that good tree bearing good fruit—namely, the body and blood of Christ, given and shed for you for the forgiveness of sins.

THOUGHTS ABOUT STEWARDSHIP . . . 2 Corinthians 9:6 “The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.” St. Lawrence was in charge of the church’s almsgiving to the poor in Rome. When the Emperor demanded him to bring the treasures of the Church to the government coffers, St. Lawrence showed up the next day with the throngs of the poor and said: “Here, O Emperor, are the treasures of the Church!” Lawrence was martyred for his faith in Christ, which overflowed in his generous life toward others.

THE ALTAR FLOWERS . . . are given by Eric & Sarah Andrésen to the glory of God on the occasion of Pierce’s birthday.

ALTAR GUILD, COFFEE COMMITTEE, & FUNERAL CHAIR . . . For August, the Altar Guild is Dorothy Hostetler and Willa Braaten. Coffee Committee is the Braaten family. August Funeral Chair is Ann Carroll. For September, the Altar Guild is Lauren, Maggie, and Willa Braaten. Coffee Committee is the Andrésen family. September Funeral Chair is Lauren Braaten and Jaimee Whitson.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS . . . The annual church picnic and fish fry is on Sunday, August 17. Please bring a dish to share and plan to eat around 5:30 pm.

RATE & REVIEW IMMANUEL ON GOOGLE . . . Did you know that throughout the United States each month over 2 million people search on Google for “Churches Near Me.”? That’s how a majority of people find churches to visit. Therefore, being visible on Google as one of the top results for searches is important to get found. One way to increase your visibility on Google is through their Rate & Review feature. Please consider rating and review Immanuel on Google by going to: https://g.page/r/CdbSahe0h2B0EAI/review

Sunday School Art Project . . . We’re excited to share that LCMS artist, Ed Riojas, has begun work on a special series of drawings and paintings depicting the 12 Apostles. These beautiful works will be displayed over the rock panels on the face of the choir loft balcony, adding a rich visual confession to our sanctuary. The Sunday School has already raised with the help of some other donations, around $10,000. This is two-thirds of the needed $15,000 in just a few months. If you are interested in supporting this Sunday School art project alongside of our Sunday School students, please contact pastor or speak with one of the members of the Board of Christian Education. Thank you for helping make this vision a reality for our congregation!

SAVE THE DATE . . . August 23, 2025 for this year’s Not Ashamed Conference to be held at Iron Horse Golf Club. This year’s conference will have Pastor Jason Braaten speaking on Embracing God’s Purpose in Adversity. We don’t get to choose our battles, but we do get to choose how we face them. Our trials aren’t wasted. Our struggles aren’t random. So come and learn the importance of Embracing God’s Purpose in Adversity. Register at https://bit.ly/NotAshamed_2025 or call the church office for help in registering.

VACANCY AT IMMANUEL, BROADLANDS . . . Pastor Braaten was enlisted to fill the vacancy at Immanuel, Broadlands. This requires some minimal time changes for our Sunday mornings together. Adult Bible Class will meet at 8:00 am before our normal Divine Service time at 9:00 am. After Divine Service, Pastor will travel to Broadlands to conduct services and Bible Class.