Gospel Highlight

Now when John heard in prison about the deeds of the Christ, he sent word by his disciples and said to Him, “Are You the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?’ And Jesus answered them, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind receive their sight and the lame walk, lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear, and the dead are raised up, and the poor have good news preached to them. And blessed is the one who is not offended by Me.” (Matthew 11:2-6)

 

Poor John. Stuck in prison and unable to see for himself what this Jesus, the One he baptized, has turned into. Is He really the Messiah? John thought so, the day the heavens opened and the Holy Spirit descended.

But now John has nothing to do but think. And he worries: Did I make a mistake? Wasn’t the Messiah supposed to set the prisoners—like me—free? Who is this man, anyway?

Jesus has mercy on him. He doesn’t say a flat “Yes”—any liar could do the same. No, He invites John’s disciples to take the evidence of their own ears and eyes back to their teacher. These are the miracles of the Messiah. The Good News is being preached, even if John is sitting in darkness. God’s plan is going forward.

From this time on, John’s disciples will be able to comfort him any time he falls into doubt. They are witnesses—and ones he can trust.

And we, too, can comfort our fellow Christians during times of fear and doubt. We can sit with them and listen. We can remind them of all the times God has been there for them—starting with Jesus’ own suffering, death, and resurrection.

(This week’s devotion is from the Lutheran Hour Ministries.)

JESUS CONNECTIONS
Look for the Good News!

Sometimes we feel unsure or have big questions—just like people did long ago. But Jesus shows who He is through the good things He does: helping, healing, and caring for others. When we look around, we can see His love at work in our world too! And when we’re not sure about something, we can always trust that Jesus is the One who brings hope, joy, and light to everyone.

Jesus Shows Us Who He Is

During Advent, Jesus Connections will focus on learning the Advent themes 
for each week: Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love. 
FMI on upcoming Jesus Connections events and learning, reach out to 
Teacher Stephanie

Fellowship for Sunday, December 14
 Family Favorites


Here they come - the holiday classics! Taking part in holiday traditions helps us feel like we’re a part of something bigger. They give us a sense of where we came from and why we’re here. Sharing experiences—like foods, sights, and smells—links us to our past and to each other. What holiday favorite are you going to bring?

It just wouldn’t be the holidays without______________! (You fill in the blank.)

Prayer Requests

Lord, provide healing, peace, strength, comfort, and understanding…   

Aaron Byers – Diagnosed with Metastatic Melanoma. Prayers for continued treatment.

Helen Cantrell – Pray for comfort as she continues treatment due to health issues.

Eddie Henson – Prayers of thanks for a successful surgery.

Mathew Eisinger – Prayers for Pastor Jake & Alyssa’s son, Mathew Eisinger, as he deploys with the Army to Poland on Sept. 16th, for 9 months. May the Lord keep him safe on his deployment & return safely home.

Johnston Family – For peace, comfort, and strength as they mourn the loss of Caroline, wife and mother, who passed away on Wednesday, November 26th.

Stanton family – For peace, strength, and comfort as they mourn the loss of Bruce, who recently passed away unexpectedly.

Sara Kalaveras – Her surgery went well, and she is home. May God give her strength and patience during her recovery.

Ellie (Sue Burns’ mother) - She is recovering from a recent stroke. May the Lord surround her with strength, comfort, and healing during this time.

Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayers.

Prayer requests can now be sent to stmarkelko@gmail.com.

Men's Fellowship Breakfast

Gentlemen, it’s time for food, faith, and fellowship!  Join us this Friday, December 12th, 8:30 a.m. @ Toki Ona for a delicious breakfast, great conversation, and time to grow together in faith.

This is a wonderful chance to connect with other men, share experiences, and encourage each other in our walk with Christ. Everyone is welcome, whether you're new or a long-time member!

Bring a friend, and let’s make it a morning to remember! 

Choir Update

There will be no choir practice this Sunday.
Instead, we’ll plan to meet for a quick run-through at 8:30 AM on Sunday, December 21. The choir will sing that morning at approximately 8:55 AM.

Thank you, choir members, for your flexibility and dedication!

Have you seen Jesus?

During the season of Advent, a small Jesus figure will be placed somewhere in the sanctuary. If you locate Jesus, please bring Him to Pastor Jake and receive your reward. 

The Jesus search continues...

LWML Christmas Mission

The LWML Christmas Mission at St. Mark Lutheran Church is once again supporting DCFS through their annual Christmas Tree campaign. The tree is up, and this year we have six girls, ages 4 to 15, who are in need of Christmas gifts.

Each tag on the tree represents one of these children—an opportunity to share Christ’s love in a meaningful and personal way. You can take a tag to shop for a specific gift or select a gift card tag to let them choose something special themselves. If you prefer, help with shopping or gift wrapping is also available.

If you have any questions, please contact Lynn Maple.  All gifts and donations should be turned in to the Cry Room by Sunday, December 14th.

Join us in making a difference—your generosity helps brighten a child’s Christmas!

LWML New Year's Eve Celebration!

LWML will be hosting a New Year's Celebration on Jan 3rd at 1:00 p.m., in the church fellowship hall. We will be doing potluck-style finger foods, so bring your favorite appetizer and a friend, sister, or mother, and join us for food, fun, and fellowship. A sign-up sheet will be in the hallway for a head count. 

All ladies are invited to attend.

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