NEXT WEEK’S READINGS . . . Jer 8:4–12; 1 Cor 12:1–11; Luke 19:41–48.

ABOUT THIS WEEK’S READINGS . . . “The master commended the dishonest manager for his shrewdness” (Luke 16:1–9). The steward’s shrewdness is praiseworthy for two reasons. First, he knew the master would be merciful. He trusted that the master would honor the debts he forgave in the master’s name. In the same way, though we have squandered our heavenly Father’s possessions in selfishness and sin, Jesus is the Steward who has canceled our debt, knowing that His forgiveness will be honored by the Father because of the holy cross. Secondly, the steward was shrewd in using oil and wheat to provide for his earthly welfare. So also do these earthly elements aid us when pressed into heavenly use in the anointing of baptism and the wheat of the Lord’s Supper. Those who have the Sacraments will have an eternal home when their earthly home fails. These provide us aid in times of temptation (1 Cor. 10:6–13). For the Lord is our strength and a shield to all who trust in Him (2 Sam. 22:26–34).

THOUGHTS ABOUT STEWARDSHIP . . . Luke 16:8 “For the sons of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own generation than the sons of light.” Money is a tool that can be used for good or wicked purposes. Often unbelievers show more shrewdness in this than we Christians. If we really believe all that stuff we say in the Creed every Sunday . . . won’t that affect how we use our money?

THE ALTAR FLOWERS . . . are given by Rusty & Tiffany Cash to the glory of God on the occasion of their wedding anniversary.

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.

THE ANNUAL CHURCH PICNIC AND FISH FRY . . . is today, 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.

Sunday School Resumes . . . With summer break coming to a close, it’s time to start planning for Sunday School. Classes will resume on September 7th and will take place at 8:00 am to coincide with the Bible Class. It’s a great opportunity to bring your children (Pre-K to 6th grade) to Sunday School while parents join Bible Class. We are looking forward to another great year!