NEXT WEEK’S READINGS . . . Isaiah 6:1–7; Romans 11:33–36; John 3:1–15.

ABOUT THIS WEEK’S READINGS . . . Following the flood, Noah’s descendants failed to spread out and fill the earth as God had spoken. Rather, they exalted themselves; with “one language and the same words” (Gen. 11:1) they spoke proudly and arrogantly. The Lord humbled them by confusing “the language of all the earth,” dividing and dispersing the people (Gen. 11:9). That dispersal was reversed on Pentecost Day (the fiftieth day of Easter), when God caused the one Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ to be preached in a multitude of languages. “At this sound the multitude came together” (Acts 2:6), for the preaching of Christ is the primary work of the Holy Spirit, whereby He gathers people from all nations into one Church. The Holy Spirit teaches and brings to our remembrance the words of Jesus, which are the words of the Father who sent Him. These words bestow forgiveness and peace to those who keep and hold on to them in love for Jesus. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (John 14:27).

THOUGHTS ABOUT STEWARDSHIP . . . Acts 2:1 “When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place.” Pentecost is the Old Testament harvest festival—it happens around the time when the wheat and oats are ready to be brought in. Of course, this was a picture and foreshadowing of the great harvest of humankind that God means to bring in through the preaching of His Word. God gives the seed, and God brings about the harvest. From first to last, in things temporal and things eternal, we stand only by His grace.

ALTAR FLOWERS . . . are given by Dave Slaughter to the glory of God in honor of those being confirmed.

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 . . . Saturday, May 18, 11:00 am–2:30 pm. Thank you to Greg Campbell for cooking a declicious meal and to all who purchased tickets.

CONFIRMATION . . . is this weekend 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.

PASTOR WILL BE OUT OF TOWN . . . at a family wedding next weekend, May 24–26. Pastor Dan Ulrich will be filling in on Saturday night. Pastor Ken Schurb will be filling in on Sunday morning.