These are some of the most haunting and hopeful words of Jesus. When they echo in my mind, they lead me to reframe everyday encounters. This week our Fearless series leads us to consider how we respond to the global calamities (and local calamities). It is so easy to respond with fear or with frustration that nothing seems to make a difference. We might pray that God do something, and be surprised when God asks us to do something.

Indeed God does ask us to respond to the needs of our neighbors near and far. This is precisely why Bethlehem has committed our Lenten Sacrificial Offering to respond to disasters by giving to Seeds for Nicaragua (one of our Companion Synods) and Kids Against Hunger. Thus far we have received $1,766.50 to feed hungry tummies, our incognito Lord among us. Thank you for this and other ways you generously share in God's work.

Let us pray: God of all grace, this week, as we go about our busy lives, help us to recognize the amazing blessings that you surround us with. Open our eyes that we might see Jesus in the faces of those we encounter. And that with this realization, help us respond with faith and generosity that you might be at work in our lives as followers of Jesus. Thank you for the sacrifice of Jesus that changes everything. Amen.

Gratefully journeying with you this Lent,

Pastor Jeff

Connect with God this Holy Week

Palm Weekend

Saturday, March 31 - 6:00 p.m. Traditional worship

Sunday, April 1 - 8:30 a.m. & 10:45 a.m. Journey with Jesus into Jerusalem. Sunday School children sing and process with palms at the 10:45 service.  

Palm/Passion Wednesday, April 4

(No 12:05 or 5:15 p.m. services)

5:00 - 6:15 p.m. Supper

6:30 p.m. Wednesday School children sing and process with palms.

Maundy Thursday, April 5

6:30 p.m. Worship with Holy Communion remembering Jesus' last supper.

Good Friday, April 6

12:00 p.m. Worship at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church sponsored by Aberdeen area ELCA churches

4:00 p.m. & 6:30 p.m. Crosswalk (indoors) - Walk with Jesus through the final days of his life in this dramatic Good Friday service.

Saturday, April 7

6:00 p.m. Worship - Our one hour Easter Eve service

Easter Sunday, April 8

7:30 a.m. Worship with Holy Communion - Sunrise Service Rushing From the Resurrection led by Bethlehem's 6th & 7th Graders.

8:00 - 11:00 a.m. Easter Breakfast Buffet - Freewill offering to support the 2012 National Youth

Gathering Participants

9:00 & 10:45 a.m. Worship with Holy Communion - Gather for a festive celebration of Christ's Resurrection.

Transportation is available for most services, please contact the church office.