5-Day Devotion

Pastor Adam McDowell • March 24, 2025

Sermon by Pastor Adam McDowell

Day 1: The Call to Repentance

Reading: Luke 13:1-5

Devotional: Jesus' words in this passage challenge us to look beyond surface-level judgments and recognize our own need for repentance. Often, we're quick to point out others' faults while overlooking our own shortcomings. Today, reflect on areas in your life where you might be resisting God's call to repentance. Remember, repentance isn't just about feeling guilty; it's about turning back to God with a humble heart. How might your life change if you approached each day with a spirit of repentance and openness to God's transforming grace?


Day 2: God's Unfailing Love

Reading: Psalm 85:8-13

Devotional: The Psalmist reminds us to listen for God's voice, which speaks peace to His people. In a world full of noise and distraction, it can be challenging to hear God's gentle whisper. Today, set aside time to be still and listen. Reflect on how God has shown His steadfast love and faithfulness in your life, even in difficult times. How can you align your actions with God's love and righteousness today? Remember, God's love is not just a feeling, but a transformative power that can bring about real change in our lives and communities.


Day 3: Learning from the Past

Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:1-13

Devotional: Paul reminds us that the experiences of those who came before us serve as examples for our own spiritual journey. Despite witnessing God's mighty acts, the Israelites still fell into sin. This passage humbles us, showing that even those close to God can stumble. However, it also offers hope, assuring us that God provides a way out of temptation. Today, consider the "idols" in your life that might be drawing you away from God. How can you learn from past mistakes – both your own and those recorded in Scripture – to strengthen your faith and resist temptation?


Day 4: The Watchman's Duty

Reading: Ezekiel 33:1-9

Devotional: The role of the watchman carries a weighty responsibility – to warn others of impending danger. In our spiritual lives, we're called to a similar duty: to lovingly guide one another towards righteousness and away from sin. This isn't about judgment, but about care for our fellow believers. Today, reflect on how you can be a "watchman" in your community. Are there gentle words of correction or encouragement you need to offer to someone? Equally important, are you open to receiving such guidance from others? Remember, true spiritual growth often happens in community.


Day 5: The Promise of Forgiveness

Reading: 1 John 1:5-10

Devotional: John's words remind us of the beautiful cycle of confession and forgiveness that lies at the heart of our relationship with God. When we honestly confess our sins, God is faithful to forgive and cleanse us. This promise is not based on our worthiness, but on God's character and Christ's sacrifice. Today, take time for honest self-examination and confession. Approach God's throne of grace with confidence, knowing that His forgiveness is assured. How does the reality of God's forgiveness change how you view yourself and others? Let this truth inspire you to extend forgiveness and grace to those around you, just as God has done for you.


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At the 10:30 AM service, we will also install Janet Bahr as our assistant principal and Dianna Bultemeier as a called teacher of St. Peter's. Please join us for a reception honoring Janet and Dianna on the church's front porch following this service. Confirmation Kick-Off Sunday, August 9th during the Bible Study hour @ 9:15 am in the Sanctuary Parents and students (7th & 8th graders) of our day school and public school will meet to prep for the upcoming year with Pastor McDowell. Plan to attend and remember the Confirmation Site on The Hub will be updated soon with everything you need to know as far as expectations, handbook, assignments, deadlines, and event dates. Collections/Fundraiser (ongoing) The Compassionate Care Collection is prepping hygiene kits for the Lutheran World Relief: The LWR collection will be through July and August--details can be found on the LWR.org/kits site or HERE . Needed are: light weight bath sized towels (between 20" x 40" to 27" x52"), bath-size soap bars in original wrapper, adult toothbrush, sturdy comb, metal nail clippers--all items must be new and NOT have religious symbols or patriotic decoration. Special Monthly Offering: This month we collect for our Preschool which is so appreciated by the faculty and students. You'll also see their annual Giving Tree displayed in the Ministry Center soon. Take a letter of the alphabet off the tree and bring back the supply listed. Stay tuned for a video from our Preschool Director, Barb Christian, next week about these two opportunities to support our Preschool. Drums Alive Drums will take a break in August and come back in September with an updated schedule. Stay tuned! Monday Night Worship Summer Monday night worship ends August 31st. The following Monday is Labor Day and the church offices and schools will be closed. 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Remember, signing up doesn't commit you to it, but does share that you'd like to be contacted about it. Sisters in Christ: Simple Quilting Craft Saturday, August 15th starting at 10 am in the Cornerstone Room REGISTER HERE FREE Regret never learning how to sew? Or haven’t picked up a needle and thread in a long time? Do not miss this opportunity to learn from ladies who’ve been sewing since 2nd grade! It’s nearly a lost art, but we’re bringing it back with Linda Thiele, Debbie Haenftling, Carol Nahrwold, and Jan Bultemeier who have curated a perfect practice project to teach you sewing and the basics of quilting in the form of a pot holder or trivet. Coordinate colors with your kitchen! It’s made for beginners, but any sewing ability is welcome. There’s so much knowledge combined in this room, if you have a question about anything related to needle and thread, they can answer it! 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