NEXT WEEK’S READINGS . . . Exodus 17:1–7; 1 Cor 9:24–10:5; Matthew 20:1–16.

ABOUT THIS WEEK’S READINGS . . . The Lord appeared to Moses in the light of the burning bush (Ex. 3:1–14). Later Moses’ face would shine with the light of God’s glory when he came down from Mount Sinai (Ex. 34:29–35). At the Transfiguration, Moses and Elijah appeared with the One who is the Light of Light Himself (Matt. 17:1–9). Jesus’ glory as God shines with brilliant splendor in and through His human nature. By this epiphany, our Lord confirmed the prophetic word (2 Pet. 1:16–21), revealing that He is the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. He manifested His majesty as the eternal Son of the Father, and He wonderfully foreshowed our adoption as sons (Collect). We who have been baptized into Christ’s body are given a glimpse of the glory that we will share with Him in the resurrection on the Last Day.

THOUGHTS ABOUT STEWARDSHIP . . . Matthew 17:7 But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Rise, and have no fear.” When Jesus is with us, there is no need to fear. He loves us and cares for us and will never abandon us. That assurance is the basis of all generosity—for only those who are set free from worry can learn the joy of giving.

PASTOR’S OFFICE HOURS & CONTACT INFO . . . Pastor Braaten will be in his office Monday–Thursday, 9:00 am–12:00 noon, 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.

SHARE YOU STORY . . . Many of us have a daily practice of spending time with God. This can look different for each of us. Whether simple or more complex, short or long, morning or evening, the tools we use or don’t use, the one thing we have in common is that we can share our practice with the children of our church so they can learn from us and create their own daily practice. Sign up today to share your story. The sign-up sheet is located on the wall outside of the double classroom. See you soon!

2024 NOT ASHAMED CONFERENCE . . . It is time to begin planning the 2024 Not Ashamed Conference, and you are invited to join in on the fun as a member of the planning committee for 2024! The first meeting will take place on Monday, January 29 at 6:00 pm in the double classroom. Please reach out to Pastor, Lauren, Donna, or Celeste with questions.

BI-MONTHLY MISSION . . . is Sunday, February 4, and will be going to the Tuscola Area Ministerial Alliance (TAMA). For your convenience, an envelope designated for TAMA has been placed in your church mailbox. You may place cash or check payable to Immanuel in this envelope. Thank you!

ALTAR GUILD. . . There are still opportunities to serve and carry out the Lord’s mission among us. Please sign up for a month to serve on the Altar Guild. Members care for our Lord’s body and blood just as the woman who went to be tomb sought to care for the body of Jesus. There are spots for both Senior and Junior members to sign up.

THE FINANCIAL REVIEW COMMITTEE . . . is requesting the deposit ledgers and bank statements of all groups associated with Immanuel so that they may be reviewed as mandated by the church constitution. They may be set in the church office.

THE FEBRUARY CALENDAR . . . with birthdays and anniversaries is available on the table across from members’ mailboxes.

PASTOR WILL BE AWAY . . . January 22–28 at the Board of Directors meeting for The Lutheran Church Extension Fund. He will have limited access to his mobile phone. For emergencies, please contact one of the Elders: Steve Hilgendorf (217.493.3359), Tim Hoel (217.493.0449), Les Sluder (217.253.3029), Mark Whitson (217.202.4630).

FAITH OF OUR FATHERS CONFERENCE . . . The theme of the 2024 Faith of Our Father Conference is “The Law of God Is Good and Wise.” Debates over the Law of God have troubled American Lutheranism in recent years. Are Lutherans truly “weak on sanctification”? Do real Lutherans believe in a third use of the Law? What is antinomianism? How far have we caved to the indulgence and lawlessness of the world? What does true Law and Gospel preaching look like? Over two days, April 12th and 13th, at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Collinsville, IL we will learn about and discuss the Law of God. This conference is for both laity and pastors. Come join us for good theology, fellowship, and maybe even a little fun with some fellow Lutherans! Speakers and preachers include: Pr. Benjamin Ball; Rev. John Hill; Rev. Dr. Scott Murray; Rev. Dr. David Petersen; Rev. David Ramirez; Rev. Dr. Peter Scaer; Rev. Joshua Scheer; Rev. Mark Surburg; Pr. Michael Walther; Pr. William Weedon; and, Rev. Todd Wilken. Learn more and register for the conference at: https://yourgrandfatherschurch.org/.