November 11, 2018

 Vol. 72, No. 46

                    Read Your Own Mail

The relationship between husband and wife. Often it’s glorious, as friends tell me the Hallmark Channel so inspirationally portrays. But, if we’re honest with ourselves, sometimes tremors underneath the surface hint that things are not well. How do we do this life of faith together in the most intimate of relationships?  In Peter’s 1st letter (1 Peter 3:1-7), he writes to both sides of the relationship to direct towards greater unity. There’s one problem, though. We’ve been reading the other’s mail, particularly us men, without completely owning our responsibilities. It’s like the Larry Osborne illustration I mentioned a couple of weeks ago about using the Bible as a binocular or a mirror. Your starting point is to obey what the Bible is telling you to do.

In short, wives are called to submit in the relationship to their husbands. Peter points ladies towards focusing more on developing their inner self than their outward (cosmetic) appearance. Men, in turn, are called to be considerate and respectful with the weaker (physically, not intellectually or spiritually) partners. Guys, there’s a lot in that. And, if any of us think we need to point out our wive’s failings in her call, it’s probably an indicator we’re struggling with our own role. More often than not, when we insist on submission, Cloud and Townsend in Boundaries suggest, we’re compensating for something and forgetting the need to know our wives well, to respect and remember they are heirs with us of the gracious gift of life. Wives, please don’t quote that (for the same reason!).
SATURDAY    Worship Service in Memorial Hall at 6 P.M. followed by a potluck meal every other week at 7 P.M.
SUNDAY   Adult Sunday School Bible Study at    9:30 A.M. Learn and share truths from the Bible.
10:45 A.M. Sunday Morning Worship Service.
There is staffed nursery downstairs.
11:15 A.M. Jr. Church children are dismissed from church.
CONNECT GROUP   Tuesday, 7 P.M. at the   parsonage. Come out to learn and share insights. Discussion is always interesting and it is followed by prayer.
YOUTH GROUP  There will be youth group meetings once a month on the third Tuesday of the month. It is for ages: 10 – 18. Remember to pray for our youth and our youth director search.
PRAYER MEETING   Wednesday night at 7 P.M. in Memorial Hall includes a Bible study followed by prayer.
LADIES BIBLE STUDY   Watch for date of a new study at Jill’s.
LADIES NIGHT & BETHEL BUILDERS
– Bethel Builders meeting to make favors for Scand is this Monday,  November 12^th ,  at church at 7 P.M.
– Ladies Night on November 26^th will be making Christmas  Crafts.
– December 9^th is the Bethel Builders Cookie Walk.
CHURCH NEWS  A bid has been received for converting the wood fireplace to gas. This would make it easy to be used for Memorial Hall events or for just sitting by the fire and reading a book.  The wood fireplace is used rarely as it includes getting wood  in to dry, starting the fire, and cleaning up the mess.
COMMUNITY NEWS   Brenda Cornell reported on the recent results of the Wisconsin Interscholastic Horsemanship Association State Finals noting that two Island girls, her daughter, Paige Gunnlaugsson, and Karoline, daughter of Tom and Michelle Jordan, placed 5^th out of 12 in their division. To get to this level, they had to win several competitions. The two young ladies don’t have access to an indoor arenas or outside arenas with appropriate footing that other competitors have.  The state level is considered the best of the best in the state. Hundreds of horses in 4 different divisions competed against each other. Congratulations to the girls and their supporters on this accomplishment. (Thanks to Brenda’s facebook postings for the news.) *** WASHINGTON ISLAND VOITING RE-SULTS:  568 votes cast. Governor/Lt.Governor: R-Scott Walker/Amanda Kleefisch (293); D- Tony Evers/Mandela Barnes (259): Libertarian, Wisconsin Green, Independent, Wisconsin Party got 1 to 4 votes. (Total 560).  Attorney General: R-Brad Schimel (297), D-Josh Kaul (247), Constitution-Terry Larson 13. Sec. of State:R-Jay Schroeder (299); D-Doug LaFollette (257); State Treasurer: R-Travis Hartwig (281); D-Sarah Godlewski (251); Constitution-Andrew Zuelke (18). U.S. Senator:  R-Leah Vukmir (283); D-Tammy Baldwin (280). Rep. in Congress Dist.8: R-Mike Gallagher (341); D-Beau Liegeols (221). State Senator Dist 1: R-Andre Jacque (280), Caleb Frostman (277). Rep. to Assembly Dist. 1: R-Joel Kitchens (357), D-Roberta Thelen (175). Door County Sheriff: R-Patrick McCarty (300), D-Tammy Sternard (256). Clerk of Circuit Court: R-Connie DeFere (394).   NOTE –  the above voting results do not necessarily reflect the winners of each race. It was a great voter turnout.

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October 28, 2018

 Vol. 72, No. 44

FALL BACK ONE HOUR:

Next Sunday, November 4^th, is coming up.
Reminder to set your clocks back an hour
before bedtime on that Saturday night.
_______________________________________

Theology and You

I have this quote from Haddon Robinson that I keep looking at as I prepare my sermons. He says, “If theology doesn’t explain life, it’s probably not worth the time it takes to study it or preach it. … Real theology is about how God intersects with our lives and how life looks when we take seriously that the God of the Bible is really there.” Theology gives us a basis for the how and why of life and faith, even in difficult times.

The life of faith makes us think, at points, that we will be so blessed because we are actually following God. When that doesn’t happen we can wonder what we’re doing wrong. St Peter directs us to remember that we’ll face injustice. If we do and endure, God commends us. That doesn’t make it easy, but does give it some purpose.  And the model Peter points towards for this is Jesus, Himself. You see, for Peter, that Jesus was so unjustly and brutally treated for the sake of humanity is a model for all who confess faith in Christ.

We can get pretty worked  up about facing unfairness, ourselves. And while we are not

supposed to like it, we are still called to live in such ways as we direct our lives manners that glorify Christ, no matter what.   – Pastor Rick

SATURDAY    Worship Service in Memorial Hall at 6 P.M. followed by a potluck meal every other week at 7 P.M. (October 27^th , this Saturday, there will be a potluck with speaker, Doug Quenzer.)
SUNDAY   Adult Sunday School Bible Study at    9:30 A.M. Learn and share truths from the Bible.
10:45 A.M. Sunday Morning Worship Service.
– SPECIAL SPEAKER: Doug Quenzer –
There is staffed nursery downstairs.
11:15 A.M. Jr. Church children are dismissed from church.
CONNECT GROUP   Tuesday, 7 P.M. at the   parsonage. Studying the parables of Jesus. Come to learn and share insights.
YOUTH GROUP  There will be youth group meetings once a month on the third Tuesday of the month. It is for ages: 10 – 18. Remember to pray for our youth and our youth director search.
PRAYER MEETING   Wednesday night at 7 P.M. in Memorial Hall includes a Bible study followed by prayer.
LADIES BIBLE STUDY   Jill’s study is at her home on Main Road at 12:30 Thursdays. The study is based on the book, “Praying with Paul.”
LADIES NIGHT & BETHEL BUILDERS   This month’s Ladies Night will be tomorrow night, October 29^th,  and will be a Halloween Party at Memorial Hall. 7 P.M. Come dressed in costume! /// Bethel Builders meeting to make favors for Scand is on November 12^th at church at 7 P.M. /// Ladies Night on November 26^th will be making Christmas  Crafts. /// December 9^th is the Bethel Builders Cookie Walk.
CHURCH NEWS  Gift has been received in memory of parents, Cliff and Betty Young, brother, Ben Young, and in honor of Pastor Rick and Betty Lou for October Pastor Appreciation Month from Butch and Lorel Gordon. ***  MISSIONARY REPORT: Leslie Kleckner’s brother, Tim Reder, travelled to Rwanda on a mission trip this past summer. In a wrap-up letter afterward from a team leader, it was noted that initial plans to go could not be solidified because of the closure of thousands of churches by the government there. The church where the conference had been held in the past was one of those closed so the night before the meeting another location had to be set up. Once all the equipment was brought to a new place, word was received that they would be allowed to worship at the regular location. So everything was moved again. The senior pastor of the church said, “Your coming has brought tremendous blessings to us. Our church was closed for several months and we have not been able to worship here. But you came and our church is now open for worship because of your visit.” This is a meeting for the pastors, to encourage, teach, and support each other. Whether with a building or without, the pastors continue to make disciples, pray, introduce entrepreneurial ideas to help fund the ministry, and join  the last Saturday of the month to do community service projects. (Thanks to Leslie for sharing this information  from the mission field in Rowanda.)  *** Brian and Dana Phipps recently reported that they began worship services in a new downtown building.  They praised God for this step of progress, and expect to have many more guests because of the central location. Brian and the pastor and his wife had returned from a 12 day visit to America to introduce Pastor Muammer to the churches and individuals who support him.  Pastor Muammer’s wife’s testimony was especially inspiring and well received. Brian wrote: “Please continue to pray for us.  We want to see Jesus Christ worshiped in every corner of Turkey.”  avantministries.org
COMMUNITY NEWS  October/ November will be the fresh fruit sale at the Rec Center. You can order one kind, or several kinds of fruit plus there are different size boxes. These make great tasty and healthy gifts or treat yourself. *** This Saturday at the TPAC is ‘Guys on Ice’ performance at 2 P.M. & 7:30 P.M.

October 21, 2018

Vol. 72, No. 43

Binoculars or Mirror  

At our Church’s District Conference last week, I was able to hear one of my favorite authors and leaders , Larry Osborne, give us some thoughts on leadership.  As part of his presentation, he challenged us to look at ourselves and do some self-assessment before we go nosing around in other’s people stuff.  One of our best tools for that is the Bible. Unfortunately, he pointed out, often times we are using the Bible more as a pair of binoculars instead of a mirror.

The binocular Bible takes the Scriptures and uses them to closely examine other people’s lives, whether they are in the church or not. Invariably, when we go looking for deficiency in others moral behavior,  we will find something, and then offer a “tsk, tsk, “ and maybe even give them a warning.  But that’s not our first task as disciples or leaders. Instead of the binocular and its outward focus, the Bible performs quite well as a mirror. It directs attention back at us, revealing the attitudes of our heart and the inconsistencies of our actions.
Jesus calls attention to this as well. He compares judging others with someone who has a board in his eye trying to tell others about the specks in theirs. Deal with yourself, first, is his point (Matt 7:4-5). That applies to us today. Does your life and faith match up? Take a look in the “mirror” and ask God to help you see.

from Pastor Rick

SATURDAY    Worship Service in Memorial Hall at 6 P.M. followed by a potluck meal every other week at 7 P.M. (Next week, October 27^th , there will be a potluck with speaker, Doug Quenzer.)
SUNDAY   Adult Sunday School Bible Study at    9:30 A.M. Learn and share truths from the Bible.
10:45 A.M. Sunday Morning Worship Service . There is staffed nursery downstairs.
11:15 A.M. Jr. Church children are dismissed from church.
CONNECT GROUP   Tuesday, 7 P.M. at the   parsonage. Studying the parables of Jesus. Come to learn and share insights. Discussion is always interesting and it is followed by prayer.
YOUTH GROUP  There will be youth group meetings once a month on the third Tuesday of the month. It is for ages: 10 – 18. Thanks to Kirsten and Rich Ellefson for hosting the October meeting. Remember to pray for our youth and our youth director search.
PRAYER MEETING   Wednesday night at 7 P.M. in Memorial Hall includes a Bible study followed by prayer.
LADIES BIBLE STUDY   Jill’s study is at her home on Main Road at 12:30 Thursdays. Studying the “Praying with  Paul.”
LADIES NIGHT & BETHEL BUILDERS   This month’s Ladies Night will be October 29^th and will be a Halloween Party at Memorial Hall. 7 P.M. ALL ladies invited. Wear a costume! // Bethel Builders meeting to make favors for Scand is on November 12th at church at 7 P.M.
CHURCH NEWS  Mildred and Dewey Jacobsen would love to have visitors as Mildred has been homebound. Call first to let them know if you can stop in.  *** Gifts have been received from Marian Boniface in memory of Bob Podloger; from Susan Greenfeldt in memory of son, Robert Greenfeldt. Thank you! *** Thanks to those who turned out for the fall cleaning workday at church. *** Thanks to Bethel Builders for purchasing the chairs for Pastor’s office. *** October is the month set aside specifically to honor pastors and the faithful servants who lead God’s people. Thanks to Pastor and Betty Lou. We are so thankful you are here ministering on the Island! *** It is so great to hear the bell ringing again at Bethel to begin the service. *** The monthly Leaders’ Council meeting was held Thursday night, October 11. The next meeting will be November 8.  It was voted unanimously to allow the Senior Lunches to be held at Memorial Hall  just while the Community Center kitchen is being remodeled.  October 27 and 28 Doug Quenzer will be the special speaker. Pastor will be gone to visit his mother in Arizona for her 80^th birthday. Betty Lou will be spending time with her mother in Canada. The Elders have been studying “Lead Like A Shepherd” study in I Peter as well as praying for church members and attenders. Bethel Builders met to paint cans for the Cookie Walk. Trustee present, Marsha Gunnlaugsson, reported on accomplishments noting to give Jim Esperson thanks for all his work around the church. Also thanks to Jim Gunnlaugsson and Don Riewe for their work. Keith Mann power washed the church. It looks great. Andy Munao noted that the church van needs some work done.
COMMUNITY NEWS Remember this Saturday the 20^th  is the concert with Pete Nehlsen’s hand-built dual piano at the TPAC beginning at 7:30 P.M. Players will be Joan Reynolds and Doc Westring. *** A reminder that the Trinity Lutheran Church clothing sale is Thursday, October 25, noon to 4; Friday, October 26 from 10 – 6; Saturday October 27 from 9-1. Clothing donations can be left in the Social Hall starting this Sunday afternoon. *** The Mosling Recreation Center will have a children’s Halloween party on Thursday, October 25th from 3:30 to 5:30. Children do not need to wear costumes. Games, food and fun. *** Congratulations to Christine and Kyle Mann  on the birth of their baby, Tessa Mae, born October 9, weighed 6#13 oz.   Paternal grandparents are Cathy and Keith Mann, great grandparent, LeVaun Mann. Maternal grandparents are Candy and Dale Kirchner, great grandparent, Evelyn Kirchner.

October 14, 2018

 Vol. 72, No. 42

What’s In Your Hand?  

This past Sunday, it was our pleasure to have Jon Payne, our EFCA District Superintendent here in Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. be with us. Jon has been serving the district since November 2016 and this was his first ever trip to the Island. Jon’s message was a reflection on Moses, call and commission to help rescue the Hebrews from Egypt (Exodus 1-4).

Having fled from Egypt under a murder rap, Moses settled down in rural country and tended sheep. One day, he came across a burning bush and there encountered God’s presence. God laid out his plan to free the people. Moses, however, had some questions. Why would the Egyptians listen to him? God’s response was to ask him what he had in his hand (a shepherd’s staff). He directed him to throw it down and it immediately became a snake. Moses (wisely imo) ran from it. And God then told him to pick it up. I would have said no, but then I am no Moses. At once it returned to the shape of a staff. Pretty cool, eh?

God’s message to Moses is that if he’s going to be asked to do something, God will provide him with whatever he needs. It doesn’t mean it would necessarily be easy, but the point is to rely on God. That’s instructive for us, too. We walk by faith and obedience, and our true successes are more an indicator of His working through us, than us being so clever and gifted. So, what is God calling you towards? And what’s holding you back?

SATURDAY    Worship Service in Memorial Hall at 6 P.M. followed by a potluck meal every other week at 7 P.M.
SUNDAY   Adult Sunday School Bible Study at    9:30 A.M. Learn and share truths from the Bible.
10:45 A.M. Sunday Morning Worship Service . There is staffed nursery downstairs.
11:15 A.M. Jr. Church children are dismissed from church.
CONNECT GROUP   Tuesday, 7 P.M. at the   parsonage. Studying the parables of Jesus. Come to learn and share insights. Discussion is always interesting and it is followed by prayer.
YOUTH GROUP  There will be youth group meetings once a month on the third Tuesday of the month. The next one is scheduled for October 16^th. Ages: 10 – 18. Remember to pray for our youth and our youth director search.
PRAYER MEETING   Wednesday night at 7 P.M. in Memorial Hall includes a Bible study followed by prayer.
LADIES BIBLE STUDY   Jill’s study is at her home on Main Road at 12:30 Thursdays. The study is based on the book, “Praying with Paul.”
LADIES NIGHT   This month’s Ladies Night will be October 29^th and will be a Halloween Party at Memorial Hall. 7 P.M.
BETHEL BUILDERS   Meeting October 15 to paint cans in preparation for the Cookie Walk. Join us!
CHURCH NEWS  October 13 – This Saturday is an indoor workday at church. A variety of tasks need to be completed. Starting at 9 A.M. to ??   Come when you can and stay as long as you can. *** October is the month set aside specifically to honor pastors and the faithful servants who lead God’s people. ” Hebrews 6:10) “For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do. 11) And we desire each one of you to show the same earnestness to have the full assurance of hope until the end,” Be sure to express your thanks to Pastor (and Betty Lou!).  *** Thank you to special guest speaker last Sunday, Jon Payne, District Superintendent with Evangelical Free Church of America (EFCA) for his inspiring message last Sunday in a combined meeting of the Saturday night and Sunday morning groups. *** Let Mary Andersen know of any address changes as you head off Island for the winter months. Her contact info is on the back of the Tidings. It costs the church if a Tidings is returned.
COMMUNITY NEWS Pete Nehlsen’s hand-built dual piano will be featured at the TPAC in concert on October 20, beginning at 7:30 P.M. Players will be Joan Reynolds and Doc Westring plus maybe some surprise guests. Peter is looking forward to hearing two players on the piano. He has played each side, but this performance will feature both sides played at once. It is an incredible accomplishment involving thousands and thousands of parts to make the whole.  A dual piano is two pianos in one unit. *** The Trinity Lutheran Church clothing sale will be Thursday, October 25 from noon to 4; Friday, October 26 from 10 – 6; Saturday October 27 from 9-1. Clothing donations can be left in the Social Hall starting Sunday afternoon, October 21. *** Work has begun in preparation of connecting a new power cable from the mainland to the Island. It will now be buried over Plum Island to prevent it from being damaged from ice buildup or movement. The older repaired cable will remain as a backup. *** It was an event filled weekend with the annual Fall Fest and Apple Cider press at the Farm Museum, the annual Trinity Lutheran Church Turkey dinner, the bag sale at the Twice Around and multiple garage sales. The trees were lovely with shots of red and yellows among remaining greens.  However, rainy overcast days put somewhat of a damper on the outdoor activities. ***  Over 50 Mennonite ladies  traveled to the Island last weekend  to bike it. Bicycles were gathered from various rental locations to accommodate them. ***  Last Saturday, about 30 visitors braved an overcast day to explore Plum Island during the Door County Maritime Museum’s annual Lighthouse Festival. They were transported to the isle via Shoreline Scenic Cruises, a great FOPPI supporter. (from the FOPPI website.) *** Go to the Rec Center website for news and activities at the Rec. Check out pics from 2^nd color run.

September 30, 2018

Vol. 72, No. 40

Getting it Right  

Right and wrong.  How do we figure all this out? If laws or values come about by majority rule, is that how we do it? But then what does that do to the minority who disagree? What about choosing what I think is right? In the book of Judges, twice it is said, “Everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” (Jdg. 17:5, 21:25 ESV). This actually seems pretty close to where we are at today. But, as people of faith in Jesus, how do we navigate this? Where do we get our bearings?

In one of his letters, Peter directs believers to base their life and choices on the hope they have in Jesus.  He consistently points towards the Scriptures, as God’s revelation of His heart and priorities, for guidance on how to live. And so we have hope in difficulties, holiness in outlook, reverence for God in our living, and love for fellow believers centered on that belief (1 Peter 1:13-25). The starting point is the existence of and sovereignty of God. If we believe that, then our basis for living looks to Him for its authority.

Living out our hope, then is based in our theology. Yes, I said theology. Theology is not the exclusive domain of egghead scholars but something we engage in whenever we consider God. And, as Christians, what we believe about God and Scripture guides and directs us. That does not always make our choices easy. Because we are consistently needing to weigh our actions on something greater than majority-rule: God Himself.

SATURDAY  Worship Service in Memorial Hall at 6 P.M. followed by a potluck meal every other week at 7 P.M. NOTE that NEXT Saturday, October 6 there will be NO Saturday night service. All are invited to attend the combined Sunday morning service on October 7.  EFCA District Superintendent will be special speaker.
SUNDAY   Adult Sunday School Bible Study at    9:30 A.M. Learn and share truths from the Bible. The Sunday School class is moderated by Scott Johnson. The title is “The God Who Speaks”.
10:45 A.M. Sunday Morning Worship Service  There is staffed nursery downstairs.
11:15 A.M. Jr. Church children are dismissed from church.
CONNECT GROUP   Tuesday, 7 P.M. at the   parsonage. Studying the parables of Jesus. Come to learn and share insights. Discussion is always interesting and it is followed by prayer.
YOUTH GROUP  There will be youth group meetings once a month on the third Tuesday of the month. The first activity was September 18 at the Community Center. The next one is October 16^th. Ages: 10 through 18.
PRAYER MEETING   Wednesday night at 7 P.M. in Memorial Hall : a study based on the book, “Praying with Paul”,  followed by prayer.
LADIES BIBLE STUDY   The study is at Jill Coombs’ at 12:30 Thursdays. The study is based on the book, “Praying with Paul.”
CHURCH NEWS  Pastor Rick will be attending the Evangelical Free Church District Conference in Madison on Monday, October 8th. The title is “Leading Like A Shepherd”. ***  Betty Lou will be travelling to be with the Smith’s daughter, Stephanie, and son-in-law, Bryce Jameson and granddaughter, to welcome the Smith’s second grandchild. *** October 7 is Church Multiplication Sunday, “a day we are committing to pray for increased fruitfulness in the multiplication of EFCA churches throughout the United States and beyond. As God continues to show His faithfulness to the EFCA, we want to humbly go before Him in prayerful dependence for the future of our movement. But we can’t do it alone! We need you to stand with us by praying with us! Will you join us, as one EFCA church with one voice, by praying to the One who is able to do far more abundantly than we ask or think? Join thousands across the nation on October 7, 2018, in praying to the Lord of the harvest (Matt 9:38) for the making of disciples and planting of churches.” – From the EFCA site.
COMMUNITY NEWS   Death’s Door Spirits Annual Juniper Fest was held recently offering an agricultural education on the Island.  On September 18, volunteers from the Juniper Fest accomplished many projects at the school including landscaping in the front of the school. *** Remember the Sievers Gathering this weekend! It is held over three days, Thursday through Sunday. Go to their website for detailed information: https://sieversschool.com/blog/  *** Ellie McClanathan  was to go on a mission trip to Honduras. She has been serving on medical/evangelical teams under World Gospel Outreach for almost 20 years. “verse from WGO – matt 25:40 *** A storm that brought strong winds over the Island last week  caused power outages and branches and trees blown down. Gusts were reportedly 40 mph. *** This Saturday night, September 29, is the Julian Hagen concert at 7 P.M. at the TPAC. “Blow the Man Down and other watery tunes” will be included. Thanks to Julian for his dedication and generosity over the years playing and singing for many causes. *** The annual meeting of the school district of Washington Island is October 2 at 7 P.M. in the School Commons room. Those with terms ending in April 2019 are Amy Jorgenson, Sarah Duggan Goldsmith, Kirsten Purinton, Kevin Krueger’s term ends April 2020 and Bob Wagner, April 2021. *** Colossal Fossils were to be at the TPAC on Friday, October 5 from  5:30-7:30 pm. The Colossal Fossils team was to be on stage welcoming those in attendance to touch, see, and hear about these prehistoric animals. This show is free-will donation and open to the public. Partnered with Washington Island Schools. *** Variety Show at the TPAC on Sunday, October 7 from 7:30-9:30 pm. Come out for local Wisconsin and Washington Island talent featuring blues, rock, folk and bluegrass tunes. Special guest stars include the R&B cadets Robin Pleur and John Seeger of Milwaukee reunited after 30 years!  This will be a benefit program for the TPAC donated and directed by Julian Hagen who will serve as Master of Ceremonies.

September 23, 2018

Vol. 72, No. 39

A Letter from a Friend  

Writing and receiving letters sure has changed with the coming of texts and e-mails. When I was corresponding with my, then, girlfriend, Betty Lou, back in the 1980’s, I’d often wait 2 weeks for her letters from the Philippines. When I’d get one, I’d  cast everything aside and read it. Her letters were usually 2-4 pages long, so there’d be much to sift through.  Writing back to her often entailed considering her words and responding with my own thoughts, ideas and activities. That’s how we rolled. Old school.

Written letters were an essential mode of communicating for millenia. So, in the New Testament Letters, or Epistles, we have great messages from godly leaders. They wrote about the essentials of living faithful lives while engaged with a world that was often difficult to navigate spiritually. And we have, preserved for us, Spirit-guided insights to consider in our own spiritual journey today. Like Peter’s first letter.

Peter, who was one of the noteworthy leaders of the early church, wrote to churches in what is now Turkey, to help them live faithfully in a foreign land (can you imagine receiving a letter from him?). And in doing so, he helped remind them of the living hope they have in Jesus (1 Peter 1:3). You’ve been saved, he reminded them, from an eternity apart from God. Current struggles, while significant, are refining conditions that are re-oriented around the hope/promise of eternal life. This focus can give perspective, enabling us to endure our circumstances with peace and even joy, which holds true even today. In your life, what is your hope in? Your strength? Or God’s promises?
SATURDAY  Worship Service in Memorial Hall at 6 P.M. followed by a potluck meal every other week at 7 P.M.
SUNDAY   Adult Sunday School Bible Study at    9:30 A.M. Learn and share truths from the Bible. The Sunday School class is moderated by Scott Johnson. The title is “The God Who Speaks”.
10:45 A.M. Sunday Morning Worship Service  There is staffed nursery downstairs.
11:15 A.M. Jr. Church children are dismissed from church.
CONNECT GROUP   Tuesday, 7 P.M. at the   parsonage. Studying the parables of Jesus. This past week it was the parable of the “Good Samaritan”, Luke 10:25-37. Come to learn and share insights. Discussion is always interesting and it is followed by prayer.
YOUTH GROUP  There will be youth group meetings again starting once a month on the third Tuesday of the month. The first activity was September 18 at the Community Center from 7 – 9 P.M. Age 10 – 18. The next one – October 16^th.
PRAYER MEETING   Wednesday night at 7 P.M. in Memorial Hall : a study based on the book, “Praying with Paul”,  followed by prayer.
LADIES BIBLE STUDY   The study at Jill Coombs is at her home at 12:30 Thursdays. The study is based on the book, “Praying with Paul.”
LADIES LUNCH   Meet Wednesdays for a weekly ladies’ lunch get-together, 1:00 P.M. at Jackson Harbor Soup and Sandwich.
CHURCH NEWS  At the Leaders Council meeting on the 13^th Church Chairman, Merrill Lundberg, gave a devotional based on Philippians 1 followed by prayer. Reports were given from each ministry group. There has already been a VBS meeting and the theme in 2019 will be “Athens” about Paul who “left a life of privilege and power to face angry mobs, painful imprisonment, and chain-breaking earthquakes—all to spread the life-changing truth of God’s love”. NOTE: save single flat color sheets, no patterns to be used for tents. *** Watch for a date for an inside work day at church in October. *** Thanks to church cleaners Marianna Gibson and crew during winters and Marsha Gunnlaugsson during summers. Watch for a sign up list that will be posted in the kitchen so more can take turns helping in this area. *** Thanks to Jim Esperson for his faithful work around the church. Thanks to the many that serve in many capacities. *** Let Mary Andersen know of any address changes as readers head off Island for the winter months. Her contact info is on the back of the Tidings. It costs the church if a Tidings is returned.
COMMUNITY NEWS   This past week 10 junior and senior high school students and chaperones went on the Chicago-Madison trip. *** A high school exchange student from Finland is attending Washington Island Schools. Welcome!  *** Leaves on the trees have started changing colors. *** The Community Center kitchen remodel will soon be a reality! Demolition work is to begin in October. The update includes making it a commercially licensed kitchen with proper ventilation, plumbing, lighting and efficient space. The Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) has already donated commercial appliances that were needed. These improvements will allow such things as a business incubator, classes, other organization fundraisers, and for the cooking and serving of the Senior lunches. Thanks to all who have supported Community Center fund raising events and donated monies over years that are used for improvements and upkeep and now so this project can begin. However, there is still a need for monies to pay off the balance of the cost. If you would like to donate toward this project you can send a check made out to the Washington Island Community Center c/o Treasurer, Jim Sorensen, 1644 Jackson Harbor Rd., Washington Island, WI 54246. Thank you! *** Sievers Gathering is this year from September 27 through the 29^th.  There will be workshops, sales at the Yarn Shop and the Fiber Arts Garage Sale, demonstrations, plus a variety of vendors with Island-made arts, crafts, and edibles. Go to their website for detailed information: https://sieversschool.com/blog/  This is Sievers 19^th Gathering. *** About 30 participated in the Rec Center Color Run. *** NEW ADDRESS FOR MICHAEL SMITH: We have a new address for Michael.  60B, Peremoha St., KB 39, Pomichna, Kirovohradska Oblast, Ukraine. 27030.

September 16, 2018

Vol. 72, No. 38

The Good, the Bad and Jesus

Paul is one of my dearest and closest friends. He’s one of the brightest and inspirational pastors  and preachers I’ve known and I’m honored to be his friend. But we’ve had our ups and downs. To save our churches some money, we’ve twice tried to share a hotel at church conferences. The first time we were arguing nose to nose at 11pm, and the last time we hardly spoke during our entire drive across Illinois. We’ll not likely room again. Still, our closest, richest times have come after our little fallouts.  Fortunately, we’ve given our friendship 2nd and 3rd chances.

Jesus does that in even greater ways. Take Peter. Peter was one of Jesus main guys. He was always there and had some sweet experiences with Jesus. He walked on water, caught boatloads of fish, and even saw prophets of old appear (Matt. 17). Unfortunately, he had some wretched  moments too. Jesus identifies Peter’s attitude as being satanic at one point (Matt. 16:23), and then worse, 3 times Peter denied having anything to do with Jesus when he was arrested and on trial.  So how does Jesus respond?

After the resurrection, Jesus asks Peter if he loves him 3 times. Each time, as Peter says yes, Jesus gives him instructions to feed his flock. Within weeks of his failure, Jesus entrusts Peter with an essential role in guiding and leading the ministry. Makes you wonder about how we work at restoring those who’ve stumbled, doesn’t it? Can we, with both wisdom and grace find ways to restore, reconcile and rebuild others who have failed? Repentance is certainly necessary, but so is forgiveness. It’s what Jesus would do.  – Pastor Rick

SATURDAY  Worship Service in Memorial Hall at 6 P.M. followed by a potluck meal every other week at 7 P.M.
SUNDAY   Adult Sunday School Bible Study at    9:30 A.M. Learn and share truths from the Bible. The Sunday School class is moderated by Scott Johnson. The title is “The God Who Speaks”.
10:45 A.M. Sunday Morning Worship Service  There is staffed nursery downstairs. Jr. Church starts at about 11:15 A.M.
 MONDAY  Ladies Night Out, 7 P.M. at church, Memorial Hall. Game night.
CONNECT GROUP   Tuesday, 7 P.M. at the   parsonage. Studying the parables of Jesus. This past week it was the “Lost Parables” from Luke 15:1-32. The parables were about the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son. Next week will be the parable of the “Good Samaritan”, Luke 10:25-37. Come to learn and share insights into the story. Discussion is always interesting and it is followed by prayer for answers to prayer and current needs.
YOUTH GROUP  There will be youth group meetings again starting once a month on the third Tuesday of the month. The first activity is September 18 at the Community Center for basketball and other games from 7 – 9 P.M. Come out and have some fun together with friends. Age 10 through Seniors.
PRAYER MEETING   Wednesday night at 7 P.M. in Memorial Hall : a study based on the book, “Praying with Paul”,  followed by prayer.
LADIES BIBLE STUDY   The study at Jill Coombs resumed September 13^th. It is at her home at 12:30 Thursdays. The study will be based on the book, “Praying with Paul.”
LADIES LUNCH   Meet Wednesdays for a weekly ladies’ lunch get-together, 1:00 P.M. at Jackson Harbor Soup and Sandwich. Last week the ladies got lunch from Jackson Harbor Soup and Sandwich and went to Rock Island for a picnic. Those enjoying the beautiful day included Betty Lou Smith, Leslie Kleckner, Jeanette Schauske, Wendy Jorgenson, Sharon Stults, Sue Greene, Deb Thielke, Sharon Crounse. Thanks to Betty Lou for organizing.
CHURCH NEWS  Trustee Meeting at 6 PM, prior to the Leaders Council at 7 PM was held on the 13^th at 7 PM.  *** Let Mary Anderson know your son’s or daughter’s college address and the Tidings will be sent to them at no cost. Mary’s address and phone are on the back of the Tidings. ALSO make sure she knows any address changes as readers head off Island for the winter months.
COMMUNITY NEWS   This Saturday September 15th will be a special event sponsored by the Washington Island Rec Center – a Color Run! This type of run incorporates color explosions and there are no losers! It is a 5K walk/run and participants should wear white t-shirts. *** After some rescheduling Rick Heineman presented the Island’s history of transportation Sunday, September 9^th, at Trinity Lutheran Church. *** Friends of Plum and Pilot Islands (FOPPI) has had their last overnighter / work day for the season. The report from the FOPPI website, prior to the work day:  “we’ll be battening up the hatches and saying our bittersweet good-byes to lady Plum. Some of the tasks we’ll be taking care of include: • Bringing in the Aldo Leopold benches • Assuring that all the window coverings are secure • Doing a final bat count • Last chance at trail maintenance and beach patrol. They will be assessing the projects completed and the ones for next season. Go to their online site and become a member. One of the benefits is receiving informative newsletters by email or snail mail. *** First day of Fall is September 23. *** It’s the 100^th year of the Packer Organization. *** The Lions Club members met this past week and treated their wives for all their help with Lions fundraisers in 2018.. It was held in the big building at the airport. *** Leaves on the trees are already starting to change colors. *** Remember to send cards and notes of encouragement to Michael Smith, son of Pastor and Betty Lou while he is serving in the Peace Corps in Ukraine. The address is: Michael Smith/ul. Vyshneva 9A/ g. Pomichna/Dobrovelichovskiy r-n/ Kirovohradska obl/27030/Ukraine (/=line separations). Remember him in your prayers too.*** Archery and Crossbow hunting season for deer begins this Saturday, September 15 to January 6.  Youth Hunt is October 6, 7. Regular gun deer hunting is November 17-25, Muzzleloader, November 26 to December 5.  For more information go to dnr.wi.gov site. *** Remember the Sievers Gathering September 28 & 29. Go to their website for more info. *** An exchange student is looking for a host family on the Island.