Devotion

Confirm Me, O Lord

— Pastor Wayne C. Eichstadt
Lutheran Spokesman, May 2008

Confirmation at Immanuel will take place on May 4th. Twelve young members will be confirmed in the Sunday morning service and receive the Lord’s Supper for the first time. Confirmation is an excellent time for our communicant members to reflect on the vows you made at your confirmation and to renew your commitment to all that your promised on that day. Also, keep these twelve young men and women in your prayers, asking God to enable them to be faithful until death and that their faith and their love for their Savior deepen day by day.

Worship Notes

National Day of Prayer

A National Day of Prayer service will be held at 12:15 p.m. on May 1st. The prayer service is about 30 minutes.

Ascension Day Worship

We will praise our ascended Savior in an Ascension Day worship service on May 1st at 7:00 p.m. The service includes a mini-concert by the Immanuel Lutheran School Choir.

A Message for Fathers

Fathers and Leadership

During the past four months I have met with the Immanuel Lutheran Grade School fifth and sixth grade boys each Tuesday morning to discuss manhood in general, but leadership in particular. I have discussed the importance of being a good and godly man and the characteristics of quality leadership. I trust the boys are learning something, even though at times their lack of maturity may call that into question.

I have surely learned a lot as I have discussed these matters with our boys and have listened to their view of things. For instance, I have learned that three out of every four boys views his father as being the best example of leadership he has, while the fourth boy many times does not have a father figure in his home, but wishes he did. I have learned that fathers often teach lessons in leadership, first of all, without even knowing that they are doing it and, secondly, in ways that no doubt would dismay them, if they did. For instance, yelling at people to make them work harder was cited as an example of good leadership, as was spending many hours away from home and at work in order to make lots of money was cited as another. I have also found out that young boys do want to become good fathers and leaders in the future. They are willing to listen and learn, and are often willing to freely express their opinions, which is refreshing, even if at times a bit disquieting!

My point in sharing this information with our fathers is this—despite everything we may hear to the contrary in our day, young boys truly do respect and admire their fathers! They want to be close to them and learn from them. While the former may not always happen, the latter certainly will. Let us fathers take advantage of the desire of our sons! Let us be sure to spend time with them, so that we might properly instruct them in what it means to be a Christian man as well as a solid, Christian leader!

—Pastor Paul D. Nolting

In Review

Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed

On April 18^th a documentary was released in theaters nationwide—Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed. This documentary has received a good amount of publicity among Christians because it documents a case against evolution and its automatic acceptance in the world today.

Because of the nature of this film and its message, we are providing a brief review of its content from a Christian perspective for those who may be interested in seeing the movie or who wonder about its value.

This documentary will meet expectations if the viewer enters the theater with a clear understanding of its purpose and of the Intelligent Design movement:

1. The movie’s purpose is not to support, defend, or teach the biblical truth of creation.
2. The purpose of the movie is to show how freedom in science is being trampled, to reveal the effect of following evolution, and to set forth the possibility of some sort of intelligent design behind the formation of the universe.
3. “Intelligent Design” is a scientific approach that is not Christian. Intelligent Design acknowledges design but does not ascribe that to the one true God of Scripture and therefore does not glorify Him. If the scientific world suddenly agreed to Intelligent Design it would still not mean that the Bible was being believed, that God was being glorified, or that Christ was being worshipped.

Loss of Freedom in Science

The documentary interviews several scientists who lost their jobs because they taught or wrote about the possibility of intelligent design. In each case the freedom to explore scientific options was curtailed because these individuals did not follow the majority view.

Objections to Intelligent Design

The Darwinists/evolutionists who are interviewed for this film (and certainly most others) equate Intelligent Design with religion. Any discussion of Intelligent Design brings their scorn and ridicule as is evidenced throughout this movie. Intelligent Design is derided as “boring” and “stupid stuff” while those who believe in a god of any sort are described as “not sane,” “stupid,” or at the very least “ignorant.” One Darwinist describes religion like “knitting” – a pastime to amuse people.

Improbability of Evolution

It would take a minimum of 250 proteins for the simplest of cells to survive. This documentary uses a dramatic graphic portrayal to show the statistical impossibility of evolutionary development. Interviews with prominent evolutionists become humorous for the sheer silliness of what they propose without any real evidence. The film also describes the marvel of God’s creation (though it does not acknowledge it as such) in the DNA of each and every cell.

Media’s role

A reporter who dared to report on the idea of Intelligent Design and lost her job provides insight from a media perspective. A compelling case is made to show that the media supports the scientific establishment, i.e. evolution and Darwinism. The media is so closed to anything outside of “what we’re supposed to believe” that when new discoveries are put forth those discoveries are either not reported or are brushed aside with a standard line of dismissal.

Effects of Evolution

Several evolutionists are interviewed. Each one is arrogant, an atheist, speaks mockingly of anything religious not to mention Christianity, and each one freely acknowledges that the theory of evolution is what led them to their atheistic beliefs. They view this as “enlightenment,” but sadly, it is the road to damnation.

Worldview

The conclusion is made that the debate concerning the origins of the universe is really a lack of debate because all sides are not able to be heard since the idea of Intelligent Design is squelched. At the heart of this debate, or lack thereof, lies a difference in worldview:

1. Darwinist worldview—a worldview that makes science the answer to everything and makes the evidence fit whatever one has determined it should say.
2. Intelligent Design worldview—a worldview that follows the evidence wherever it leads even to the point of destroying previously held notions. It lets the evidence speak.
3. Christian worldview—a worldview not portrayed in the movie, but one that lets God speak from His Word, experiments and studies with that understanding, and then marvels as all of creation gives testimony to its Creator.

The Wall

The documentary draws an ongoing parallel between the current scientific atmosphere and that of Nazi Germany and its aftermath. Like the wall that separated East and West Germany to keep Communism “safe” from western influence, so a wall is set up to silence anything that opposes Darwinism to keep it “safe.” The movie draws attention to the evolutionary thinking that contributed to Hitler’s actions, the founding of Planned Parenthood, and still contributes to abortion and euthanasia.

Final Call

The movie ends with a call to stand up for freedom in science. It seeks to inspire individuals who love freedom to stand up and be heard. The movie is convincing in its cause and if there is reason to “stand up” for the love of freedom and science, we have much more reason to stand up when we have the truth to share and the true God to glorify. The movie ends on a humorously entertaining note for all those who are familiar with Ben Stein’s previous work.

Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed is informative. It provides a valuable collection of interviews and insights into the way in which Darwinism has kidnapped science, and it provides evidence of all the resultant effects. The sobering message of the film is a reminder to us all to guard our hearts and those of our children. The message of Darwinism is pervasive and not simply in the classroom or the scientific journal—it is all encompassing because of its wide acceptance and assumed truth.

The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament shows His handiwork. Day unto day utters speech, And night unto night reveals knowledge. There is no speech nor language Where their voice is not heard...The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul; The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple; The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes; The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; The judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, Yea, than much fine gold; Sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb (Psalm 19:1-3, 7-10).

— Pastor Wayne C. Eichstadt

View from the Pews

An Immanuel member shares a helpful reminder for mutual forgiveness and treating one another as brothers and sisters in Christ with the past forgiven.

Suppose you discovered that a member of this congregation suffered from a mental illness that left untreated could produce hallucinations and possibly cause him to do something dangerous. However, the person in question is taking medication that successfully controls his illness. Would you treat this individual differently? Would you be nervous around him or avoid him out of fear and uncertainty?

This kind of situation is a very real possibility, but it is not only limited to mental illness. Anything that may set someone apart from others in some way has the potential to isolate the individual. Such isolation is not helpful to the individual’s spiritual or emotional welfare and is also contrary to God’s will. “My brethren, do not hold the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with partiality… If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself,’ you do well; but if you show partiality, you commit sin, and are convicted by the law as transgressors” (James 2:1,8-9).

At times, a person’s past actions may be hard for others to forget or get out of their minds. It is indeed a blessing of God’s grace that all of us have our pasts washed clean by the blood of Christ. As we rejoice to know that our sins are forgiven through Christ Jesus, we are able to rejoice that others have been led the same repentance and faith in Christ—regardless of their past—and we are able to welcome them and treat them as a fellow redeemed sinner. The hymn writer reminds us of God’s mercy toward each sinner:

“Today [God’s] mercy calls us to wash away our sin.
 However great our trespass, whatever we have been,
 however long from mercy our hearts have turned away,
 Your precious blood can cleanse us and make us white today.”

[TLH 279:1]

We have brothers and sisters in Christ among us who have medical issues that can affect their behavior. It is important and God-pleasing that we treat them with the same respect and understanding that we ourselves would like to receive. It is possible that we may be aware of things that have been done in the past, and we may be aware of ongoing spiritual and emotional struggles that these individuals face. If sin is involved, we each have the opportunity to help this individual through correction and encouragement. “Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted” (Galatians 6:1). If the individual needs a “lift up,” encouragement, or someone to listen and talk to, that becomes our opportunity too. “Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord” (Colossians 3:16).

—A fellow member of Immanuel

Summer of Opportunity

This summer there are many different family and individual opportunities for growth in God’s Word and Christian fellowship this summer. The following is at least a partial list. Sources for additional information are listed below, but you may also contact the church office.

July 30-August 3
Arise and Shine—20s and 30s Retreat

Cuivre River State Park, Troy, MO (45 miles NW of St. Louis). “Christ Conquered Devil, World, Flesh.” A four day retreat designed to strengthen and encourage your Christian growth. More information/registration: online and brochures in the church narthex.

August 2-8
Immanuel’s Boundary Waters Adventure

Open to adventurers who are entering 7th grade and up (including adults!). There is still room for more. Contact Pastor Eichstadt for more information.

Summer Ensembles/Music for Worship

During the school year, we enjoy the blessing of having a choir present a musical selection nearly every week. The musical presentations of God’s Word are a valued addition to our worship services. During the summer the choirs are not in session. However, if you would like to offer your musical talents to a worship service, please contact either pastor. This may be an instrumental selection, solo, duet, ensemble, etc.

Christian Women’s Retreat

Restored!

The Christian Women’s Retreat held from April 18-20 at the Days Inn Conference Center in LaCrosse, Wisconsin was a great success! Eighty-eight women, three infants, two pastors, and visiting members of Peace With God Lutheran Church of Onalaska, Wisconsin all participated in varying degrees in the three-day program. The accommodations were comfortable, the meals were tasty, the support staff was most helpful, and the Christian fellowship was divine!

The theme was taken from the words of King Hezekiah as found recorded in Isaiah 38:16, “You restored me to health and let me live!” (NIV) The conference, therefore, focused on issues of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual good health. In the opening session Friday evening Pastor Nolting focused on the methods Jesus used to help people deal with an assortment of problems. What an encouragement it was to discover that Jesus always deals with individuals, both then and now, in a personal, compassionate, and powerful way!

Saturday morning brought four sessions with four different speakers. Jennifer Radermacher spoke about the beauty of “Christian Friendship,” Pastor David Lau presented an informative essay entitled, “Using Christian Discernment When Striving for Change,” Lynette Roehl addressed the important issue of “My Attitude and My Life,” and Laila Fleischer challenged the assembly to distinguish between fact and fiction, and so to “Act Based on Truth, Not Lies!” Each presentation provided practical insight into living our Christian faith more effectively!

Saturday afternoon was fun and filled with lighter learning—ten mini-sessions ranging from “Massage Therapy” by Wendy Pabst—oohh…it feels so good; to the “Beauty of Water Color” by Patty Schwartz—you have always wanted to follow in the footsteps of Picasso; to a “Missions Picture Tour” presented by Laura Hulke and Kate Friedrichs—you would really like to go there too some day!

What is a retreat without a banquet? What a banquet was had—good food, followed by two challenging and encouraging discussions on how to deal positively with emotional pain led in turn by Laurie Marzofka and Deb Salmon, and ending with sixty or so of the participants learning to line-dance under the guidance of the able instructor Alana Ahrens!

Sunday morning found Tina Eichstadt encouraging the women, whose ages ranged from the early twenties to the early nineties to “Be in Harmony with One Another.” The conference closed, as is traditional, with a communion service. Pastor Nolting, using the textual theme of the conference from Isaiah 38:16-20, summarized the overall spiritual message of the conference under the theme—“Jesus Live as Our Heavenly Physician!” To our knowledge the Lord provided safe travel for all of the participants both to LaCrosse and back home again—for this we are truly grateful!

Next years conference has been set for April 17-19, 2009 and will be held once again at the Days Inn Conference Center in LaCrosse. Ladies—we hope to see you there!

—Pastor Paul D. Nolting

Church of the Lutheran Confession

India 2009

The CLC Mission Helper Program, under the direction of the CLC Board of Missions, is beginning to make preparations for another Group Mission Trip to India in July of 2009. The exact dates have yet to be determined, but the work was determined by our Savior when He told us to go into all the world and preach the Gospel.

Listed below are a few ways you can be involved:

The following is a list of some of the things to be considered by those volunteering for the 2009 trip:

1. The length of the trip will be four weeks.
2. The approximate cost is $3000-$3200. This includes airfare and other expenses such as motels, transportation, travel insurance, passports, visas, etc. Vaccinations and anti-malaria medications will be an additional cost depending upon healthcare coverage. You will also need to arrange transportation to and from the point of departure (most likely Chicago).
3. You must be at least 18 years of age unless accompanied by a parent.
4. You will be asked to submit an application accompanied by a letter of recommendation from your pastor.
5. The deadline for applications is January 15, 2009.
6. Space is limited to twelve volunteers so apply early.
7. Preference will be given to first time volunteers.
8. You will need to pay approximately $1700 by mid-to-late February 2009 to purchase airfare.
9. This trip is primarily a teaching and preaching trip. Work that is specific to your area of gifts and training in one or more of the areas of service listed below will be arranged for each volunteer:
   • Teaching English and Bible stories to the children in the CLCI orphanage.
   • Teaching one-day VBS to children
   • Teaching seminary level classes.
   • Preaching and teaching.

Other Mission Helper Opportunities are also available on an individual basis for those who wish to travel on their own to assist in our mission efforts.

For more information on any Mission Helper trip contact: Pastor Todd Ohlmann

Copies of Mission Helper Program brochures are available in the church narthex.

Church of the Lutheran Confession

Road to Convention

The work we do with our fellow Christians in the Church of the Lutheran Confession (CLC) is important work in God’s Kingdom. Though we may not all be directly involved with the work, it is still our work through our fellowship with one another, our prayers, and our offerings. This summer, the CLC will meet in Convention (June 16-20th). Called servants and lay delegates from each congregation will consider the business of the church body and make prayerful decisions.

You are not kept out of this process. The Prospectus outlining the work of the Convention will be arriving in the next week. Printed copies will be made available. Pastor Eichstadt will also send out an electronic version via “Immanuel News” (if you don’t currently receive these emails and would like to receive them, please email Pastor Eichstadt).

The Prospectus will be reviewed and discussed after the worship service on May 18th. The input from this discussion will guide Immanuel’s delegates as they participate in the Minnesota Delegate Conference on June 1 (3:00 p.m.). The delegate conference is being held at Immanuel this year. Non-delegates are most welcome to also attend the delegate conference as visitors.

Immanuel’s delegates will provide any additional information that comes out of the delegate conference through a bulletin announcement on June 8th which will give time for the membership of Immanuel to offer it’s thoughts to Immanuel’s representatives prior to the Convention.

Following Convention, the delegates will report to the congregation the results of the Convention to the congregation. Printed copies of the Convention Proceedings will also be available later in the summer.

The work of the CLC Confession is the work of Immanuel. The work of Immanuel is your work, and most importantly it is the Lord’s work. Your thoughts, your guidance, your involvement will be a great blessing!