NEXT WEEK’S READINGS . . . Genesis 11:1–9; Acts 2:1–21, 36–41; John 14:23–31.

ABOUT THIS WEEK’S READINGS . . . The Spirit of Truth bears witness to Jesus, who is the truth. But the world does not receive the truth. It loves its own and hates those who are of the truth. Just as Jesus was scorned, so is His Church. “The hour is coming when whoever kills you will think he is offering service to God” (John 16:2). Yet it is by Jesus’ suffering and death that we are saved. Therefore we rejoice to share in His sufferings, that we may also share in His resurrection glory (1 Pet. 4:7–14). Through the ministry of the Spirit of Truth, we are cleansed from the deceit of our idols and given a new heart and a new spirit, the heart and Spirit of Christ (Ezek. 36:22–28). He now works in us fervent, self-giving love for one another, love which covers a multitude of sins, “that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen” (1 Pet. 4:11).

THOUGHTS ABOUT STEWARDSHIP . . . 1 Peter 4:10—“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” God’s grace is His undeserved mercy toward us. And what do we have that is not a gift flowing from God’s grace? He means for us to use all these gifts in service toward one another. And chief among the ways we serve one another is to support the Church’s work of bringing more of God’s grace to more of God’s people. And that’s what it means to be a steward!

PASTOR’S OFFICE HOURS & CONTACT INFO . . . Pastor Braaten will be in his office Monday–Thursday, 9:00 am –12:00 pm, unless stated otherwise. You may contact him for other appointments and visits by phone (O) 217.253.4341, (H) 217.253.4539, or (M) 217.460.2077, or by e-mail pastor.braaten@gmail.com.

ALTAR FLOWERS . . . are given by Tim and Sherrie Hoel to the glory of God on the occasion of their wedding anniversary.

BI-MONTHLY MISSION . . . is Sunday, June 2. This bi-monthly mission will go to support Camp CILCA. An envelope for this purpose has been placed in your mailbox. Thank you!

CAMP CILCA SCHOLARSHIP . . . The Board of Missions and Evangelism is offering a scholarship for anyone who wants to attend Camp CILCA. Camp CILCA Summer 2024 brochures can be found on the table across from member mailboxes. Please notify Pastor Braaten or Deborah Reifsteck of your interest.

BIBLE HISTORY CLASS . . . this Wednesday, 7:00 pm. Beginning with Genesis, we’ll go through the biblical history. Who, what, when, where, how, and even why? Join us when you’re able. It’s easy to pop in and out as your schedule permits.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR . . . Immanuel’s VBS is set for Monday, June 3–Friday, June 7, 9:00 am–11:30 am. The Board of Education is seeking donations of various items and volunteers to help where needed. Be on the look out for a board in the back of the church, pick a post-it, and join in the fun!

THANK YOU . . . To all those who helped in the kitchen and brought food for Glen’s funeral luncheon. We thank God for your kindness, prayers, and care. The Stumeier Family.

SAVE THE DATE . . . August 17, 2024 for this year’s Not Ashamed Conference to be held at Iron Horse Golf Club.

PORK CHOP DRIVE THROUGH . . . is next Saturday, May 18, 11:00 am–2:30 pm. Greg Campbell will be at church on Monday, May 13, 4:00 pm–7:00 pm, for those who haven’t already submitted their ticket sales. If you haven’t purchased your tickets, please reach out to Greg.

CONFIRMATION SUNDAY . . . is next week at the Sunday morning Divine Service. Pierce Andresen, Coen Andresen, and Owen Meador are our confirmands. There will a reception following the Divine Service in their honor. Please join us.