There are three pairs in Luke 6:17-26. There on the "level place" there are two groups - a crowd of disciples and a multitude of people. They are there on the "level place" for two reason - to hear Jesus and be healed. But whatever their motive for being there Luke reminds us he "healed them all."

God is a god of mercy who cannot but help those who come to him in need whether they deserve it or not. However, there is a word of warning and promise that he speaks to both disciples and people, both those who come to hear and those who come to be healed. Woe to those who have nothing but worldly riches, for that's all the condolence they'll ever have. For the one who is full there is ultimately hunger, for the one who laughs there is ultimately weeping. Again this is true of all. However, for those who know this truth, that we are "beggarly poor" (the actual meaning of poor in the text) there are blessings. Our hunger will be replaced with satisfaction. Our weeping will be replaced with laughter. All of this comes to us as a gift from Jesus.

For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich—2 Corinthians 8:9.

Woes & Blessings — Seventh Sunday after the Epiphany, February 23, 2025: https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/2025-seventh-sunday-after-the-epiphany

Order of service: https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/wp-content/uploads/st-james-20250223-order-of-service.pdf
Online giving: https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/give


Romans 8:35-39
Psalm 1
Jeremiah 17:5–8
1 Corinthians 15:1–20
Luke 6:17–26


Songs and Hymns:
    - Christ Our Hope In Life And Death: Jordan Kauflin, Keith Getty, Matt Boswell, Matt Papa, Matthew Merker; © 2020 Getty Music Hymns and Songs, Getty Music Publishing, Jordan Kauflin Music, Love Your Enemies Publishing, Matthew Merker Music, Messenger Hymns; Used with permission, CCLI license # 20286740.
    - Amazing Grace: Text and Tune: John Newton; Louie Giglio; Chris Tomlin; © 2006 Worship Together Music, Vamos Publishing, Rising Springs Music; Used with permission: CCLI license #20286740.
    - Blessed Are the Humble: Graham Kendrick; © 2001 Make Way Music; Used with permission: CCLI license #20286740.
    - I Will Wait for You: Jordan Kauflin, Keith Getty, Matthew Merker, Stuart Townend; © 2018 Getty Music Publishing; Jordan Kauflin Music; Matthew Merker Music; Townend Songs; Used with permission: CCLI license #20286740.
    - What Wondrous Love Is This: Text is from A General Selection of Hymns and Spiritual Songs, 1811; tune is from Southern Harmony, 1835; text and tune are public domain.
    - I Come, O Savior, to Thy Table: Text by Friedrich Christian Heyder, tran. The Lutheran Hymnal, © 1941 Concordia Publishing House; used with permission, LSB Hymn License #110001220; tune by Emskirchner Choral-Buch, 1756, public domain.
    - Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer: Text: William Williams; tune: John Hughes; text and tune are in the public domain.

Liturgies:
    - Gloria in Excelsis: Text: Stephen P. Starke
    - Sanctus: Text: Stephen P. Starke
    - Agnus Dei: Text: Stephen P. Starke

#sermon #gospel #epiphany #woe #blessings #comfort #riches #healing #Luke6

Woes & Blessings - Feb 23 - Seventh Sunday after the Epiphany

The Bible makes it clear that the Holy Spirit is still active in the life of Christ’s church. But what does this mean, and how does this look?

For some, the Holy Spirit speaks directly in a miraculous way; for others the Holy Spirit guides by opening doors. How do we know that what we’re hearing or being led to do is coming from the Holy Spirit? By judging the message or compulsion on the basis of God’s Word. So it’s not just the big events that are the Holy Spirit speaking; even the small messages–like being moved to read God’s Word, to pray, to love someone else at personal expense–are clearly coming from outside fallen human nature.

It’s important to remember that the Bible–God’s Word–is primary. What God says in holy scripture is binding on all people everywhere for all time. This is different from a personal prompting of the Holy Spirit, which is not universally applicable to all people at all times. So, as Paul says, the spirits must be tested to see if they are in line with God’s Word.

Hosts: Aaron Mueller and Chuck Rathert

Subscribe to the show at https://cacg.saintjamesglencarbon.org.
To comment on this episode, visit https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/cacg-ep119.

Does the Holy Spirit Speak Today? (Ep119)

Jesus, the Son of God, has power to change lives and yet, rather than exercise His power, He prays. Jesus could do all of the things for which He asks here in prayer. But, instead of doing them on his own, He offers them to His Father.

Why? Because there is something more important than the things for which He prays. Above all petitions, even above life itself, Jesus values His relationship with His Father.

Prayer Means Relationship — Seventh Sunday of Easter, June 1, 2025: https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/2025-seventh-sunday-of-easter

Order of service: https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/wp-content/uploads/st-james-20250601-order-of-service.pdf
Online giving: https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/give


Romans 5:8-11
Psalm 133
Acts 5:12–32
Revelation 22:1–20
John 17:20–26

Songs and Hymns:
    - Blest Be the Tie That Binds: Text: John Fawcett, 1740–1817, alt.; Tune: Johann G. Nägeli, 1773–1836; arr. Lowell Mason, 1792–1872; Text and tune: Public domain.
    - Christ Sits at God’s Right Hand: Text: Stephen P. Starke, 1955; Tune: Hebrew; Text: © 2002 Stephen P. Starke, admin. Concordia Publishing House. Used with permission: LSB Hymn License #110001220; Tune: Public domain.
    - Chaconne on Lord, Enthroned in Heavenly Splendor
    - Draw Near and Take the Body of the Lord: Text: Latin, 7th cent.; tr. John Mason Neale, 1818–66, alt.; Tune: Trente quatre Pseaumes de David, 1551, Geneva, ed. Louis Bourgeois; Text and tune: Public domain.
    - The King Shall Come When Morning Dawns: Text: John Brownlie, 1859–1925, alt.; Tune: Repository of Sacred Music, Part Second, 1813, Harrisburg, ed. John Wyeth; Text and tune: Public domain.
    - Draw Us to Thee: Text: Friedrich Funcke, 1642–99; tr. August Crull, 1845–1923, alt.; Tune: As hymnodus sacer, 1625, Leipzig; Text and tune: Public domain.
    - Go, My Children, with My Blessing: Text: Jaroslav J. Vajda, 1919–2008, © 1983 Concordia Publishing House; Tune: Welsh, 18th cent.; Used with permission: LSB Hymn License #110001220.

Liturgies:
    - Gloria in Excelsis: Text: Stephen P. Starke
    - Sanctus: Text: Stephen P. Starke
    - Agnus Dei: Text: Stephen P. Starke

#sermon #gospel #easter #power #prayer #relationship #unity #oneness #love #John17

Prayer Means Relationship - Jun 1 - Seventh Sunday of Easter

On the day of Pentecost, something remarkable happened—something that made people stop and ask, “What’s going on here?” In this week’s service, we reflect on the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and what it means for the Church today. The coming of the Spirit marks the beginning of a new era—God’s mission through Jesus has been completed, and now, empowered by the Spirit, God’s people are sent to proclaim that mission to the world.

As we remember that Pentecost was originally a Jewish pilgrim festival, we see how, on that particular day, the Spirit came with power and purpose. The disciples were given words to speak, and every listener heard in their own language. This miraculous moment signaled that we are now living in the "last days," the time in which God's full plan of salvation in Jesus has been revealed.

But what does this mean for us? As those who have received the Holy Spirit, we are called to be proclaimers too. Do our lives reflect this calling? If not, how can we be renewed in our purpose?

Join us as we explore these questions and rejoice in the Spirit who equips us to live out our faith with boldness and clarity.

What's Going on Here? — The Day of Pentecost, June 8, 2025: https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/2025-the-day-of-pentecost

Order of service: https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/wp-content/uploads/st-james-20250608-order-of-service.pdf
Online giving: https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/give


Isaiah 44:21-23
Psalm 143
Genesis 11:1–9
Acts 2:1–21
John 14:23–31

Songs and Hymns:
    - O Holy Spirit, Enter In: Text: Michael Schirmer, 1606–73, adapt.; (sts. 1, 3): tr. Catherine Winkworth, 1827–78, alt.; (st. 2): tr. The Lutheran Hymnal, 1941, alt.; Tune: Philipp Nicolai, 1556–1608; Text and tune: Public domain.
    - Holy Spirit, Ever Dwelling: Text: Timothy Rees, 1874–1939, alt.; Tune: Oude en Nieuwe Hollantse . . . Contradanseu, c. 1710, Amsterdam; Text and tune: Public domain.
    - Your Table I Approach: Text: Gerhard Wolter Molanus, 1633–1722; tr. Matthias Loy, 1828–1915, alt.; Tune: Trente quatre Pseaumes de David, 1551, Geneva, ed. Louis Bourgeois; Text and tune: Public domain.
    - What Is This Bread: Text: Frederic W. Baue. Tune: Jean Neuhauser Baue. Text and tune: © 1991 Fred and Jean Baue, used with permission, LSB Hymn License no. 110001220.
    - Sent Forth by God’s Blessing: Text: Omer E. Westendorf, © 1964 World Library Publications, used with permission, CCLI license # 20286740; tune: Welsh, public domain.
    - Holy Spirit, Light Divine: Text: Andrew Reed, 1787–1862, alt.; Tune: Orlando Gibbons, 1583–1625; Text and tune: Public domain.

Liturgies:
    - Gloria in Excelsis: Text: Stephen P. Starke
    - Sanctus: Text: Stephen P. Starke
    - Agnus Dei: Text: Stephen P. Starke

#sermon #gospel #easter #pentecost #holyspirit #lastdays #newcovenant #fulfillmentofscripture #god'smission #salvationhistory #biblicalprophecy #greatcommission #Acts2

What's Going on Here? - Jun 8 - The Day of Pentecost

On the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descended with power and clarity, uniting a diverse crowd through the proclamation of God’s Word in many languages. In this sermon from Acts 2, we hear Peter's bold declaration of Jesus’ resurrection and lordship, calling his hearers—and us—to repentance and faith. What began as confusion at the Tower of Babel is reversed as God uses many languages not to divide, but to gather His people around the truth of Christ crucified and risen.

Pastor Engfehr reflects on the enduring relevance of Peter’s message, drawing connections between the corruption of that generation and the brokenness we see in our world today. Yet, in the midst of sin, God’s Word breaks through with the promise of forgiveness and new life. Through powerful stories of modern missions—from rural Guatemala to urban Ghana—we’re reminded that the Spirit is still at work, transforming hearts and communities through the good news of Jesus.

As we reflect on Pentecost, we’re reminded of our own calling. Just as the apostles were sent out, we too are called to be Christ’s witnesses—whether across the globe or right here in our neighborhoods. In Glen Carbon, in Southern Illinois, and to the ends of the earth, the message remains the same: Jesus is Lord and Christ, and through Him, we are made new.

Testify to the Truth — The Holy Trinity, June 15, 2025: https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/2025-the-holy-trinity

Order of service: https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/wp-content/uploads/st-james-20250615-order-of-service.pdf
Online giving: https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/give


Romans 5:8–11
Psalm 8
Proverbs 8:1–4, 22–31
Acts 2:14a, 22–36
John 8:48–59

Songs and Hymns:
    - You Shine: Brian Doerksen, © 2001 Integrity's Hosanna! Music, used with permission: CCLI license #20286740.
    - God, Whose Almighty Word: Text: John Marriott, 1780–1825. Tune: Felice de Giardini, 1716–96. Text and tune: Public domain.
    - Across The Lands: Keith Getty, Stuart Townend; © 2002 Thankyou Music Ltd; Used with permission: CCLI license #20286740.
    - Holy, Holy, Holy: Text by Reginald Heber; tune by John B. Dykes; text and tune are public domain.
    - How Deep The Father's Love For Us: Stuart Townend, © 1995 Thankyou Music; Used with permission: CCLI license #20286740.
    - What Is This Bread: Text: Frederic W. Baue. Tune: Jean Neuhauser Baue. Text and tune: © 1991 Fred and Jean Baue, used with permission, LSB Hymn License no. 110001220.
    - Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory (Battle Hymn): Text: Julia Ward Howe; Tune: William Steffe; Text and Tune: Public domain.

Liturgies:
    - Gloria in Excelsis: Text: Stephen P. Starke
    - Sanctus: Text: Stephen P. Starke
    - Agnus Dei: Text: Stephen P. Starke

#sermon #gospel #timeofthechurch #truth #God'sword #repentance #Acts2

Testify to the Truth - Jun 15 - The Holy Trinity

The Gospel is the proclamation that God has triumphed over sin and death through the work of Jesus. Every Christian sermon has to proclaim this Gospel by announcing the death and resurrection of Jesus. Since the whole text of Holy Scripture centers on Jesus’ death and resurrection, every sermon has to explain, illustrate, and apply the sermon text. 

The job of the sermon is not merely to explain and instruct in good theology, but to explain and apply the text itself. And while the question of whether or not the sermon should apply the text by telling people what to do is sometimes controversial in churches that believe in salvation by grace through faith alone, applying the text not by giving rules but by applying the Gospel is mandatory.

In other words, the Gospel is not just news that sins are forgiven, it’s also the good news that Jesus is Lord of the universe, and now we are free–by the power of Jesus–to be the humans he has redeemed us to be.

Hosts: Aaron Mueller and Chuck Rathert

Subscribe to the show at https://cacg.saintjamesglencarbon.org.
To comment on this episode, visit https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/cacg-ep120.

Preaching the Gospel, Preaching the Law (Ep120)

In this powerful and deeply human story from Luke’s Gospel, we meet a man known only by the name “Legion”—a name given not by his family or friends, but by the demons that had overtaken his life. Isolated from his home and community, bound in chains, and defined only by the forces that possessed him, Legion had lost his name, his identity, and his place among the living. But then Jesus came to him—crossing a sea, braving a storm, for the sake of one broken man. What happens next is nothing short of miraculous: a life restored, a man renamed, a soul set free.

This week’s message explores the reality of spiritual oppression and the very real “demons” that continue to haunt lives today—not only in the form of supernatural forces but also in addictions, isolation, destructive habits, and the labels that steal our God-given identity. These forces still divide families, trap individuals, and break communities apart. But Jesus has come to undo their work. As 1 John 4:4 promises, “the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” Just as Jesus gave Legion a new identity and a mission—to go and tell what God has done—we too are sent out, not as the broken people we once were, but as children of God, redeemed and renamed in Christ.

Join us as we reflect on the story of the Christian formerly known as Legion—a man whose encounter with Jesus reshaped his life forever. Discover how this story invites us to recognize our own captivity, to rejoice in our release, and to proclaim the freedom we’ve been given through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The Christian Formerly Known as "Legion" — Second Sunday after Pentecost, June 22, 2025: https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/2025-second-sunday-after-pentecost

Order of service: https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/wp-content/uploads/st-james-20250622-order-of-service.pdf
Online giving: https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/give


Romans 8:35–39
Psalm 3
Isaiah 65:1–9
Galatians 3:23—4:7
Luke 8:26–39

Songs and Hymns:
    - Baptized into Your Name Most Holy: Text: Johann Jacob Rambach, 1693–1735, abr.; tr. Catherine Winkworth, 1827–78, alt.; Tune: Cornelius Heinrich Dretzel, 1697–1775; Text and tune: Public domain.
    - He Will Hold Me Fast: Ada Ruth Habershon, Matthew Merker; Copyright © 2013 Getty Music Publishing, Matthew Merker Music; Used with permission: CCLI license #20286740.
    - Grace: Text and tune: Niki Shepherd; Jonny Robinson; Rich Thompson; © 2016 Getty Music Publishing; © Rich Thompson Music; © 2016 Jonny Robinson Music; © Little Life Lines Music; Used with permission: CCLI license #20286740.
    - You Shine: Brian Doerksen, © 2001 Integrity's Hosanna! Music, used with permission: CCLI license #20286740.
    - Before the Throne of God Above: Text by Charitie Lees Bancroft; tune by Vikki Cook; © 1997 Sovereign Grace Worship; used with permission, CCLI license # 20286740.
    - Water, Blood, and Spirit Crying: Text by Stephen P. Starke, © 1999 Stephen P. Starke; tune by Jeffrey N. Blersch, © 2003 Jeffrey N. Blersch; used with permission, LSB Hymn License #110001220.
    - Lift High The Name Of Jesus: Tune: Ed Cash; Fionán de Barra; Kristyn Getty; Keith Getty; Text: Kristyn Getty; Keith Getty; Fionán De Barra; Ed Cash; Tune and Text: © Getty Music; © Fionan De Barra Pub Designee; © Capital CMG Publishing; Used with permission: CCLI license #20286740.

Liturgies:
    - Gloria in Excelsis: Text: Stephen P. Starke
    - Sanctus: Text: Stephen P. Starke
    - Agnus Dei: Text: Stephen P. Starke

#sermon #gospel #timeofthechurch #demons #identity #baptized #children #Luke8

The Christian Formerly Known as "Legion" - Jun 22 - Second Sunday after Pentecost

As Americans prepare to celebrate the 249th birthday of their nation, Jesus’ words in Luke 9 challenge us to consider a deeper allegiance: what does it mean to follow Jesus within the context of this nation?

Jesus set His face toward Jerusalem, choosing the path of rejection, suffering, and ultimate sacrifice. In doing so, He established a kingdom not of this world—a kingdom of righteousness and peace that transcends every earthly nation, including the United States. Following Him today still means being misunderstood, marginalized, or even rejected. It means holding fast to God's Word in a culture that often resists truth. It means letting go of earthly comforts, reordering priorities, and sometimes even distancing from familial expectations for the sake of Christ and His kingdom.

In this sermon, we reflect on what true discipleship looks like in America today: a life of gospel proclamation, faithful witness, and heavenly citizenship—all rooted in the cross and resurrection of our Savior. As citizens of God’s eternal kingdom who temporarily reside in this earthly one, we join our voices in prayer: “God bless America… Stand beside her and guide her through the night with the light from above.”

Following Jesus in This Nation — Third Sunday after Pentecost, June 29, 2025: https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/2025-third-sunday-after-pentecost

Order of service: https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/wp-content/uploads/st-james-20250629-order-of-service.pdf
Online giving: https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/give


Matthew 11:28-30
Psalm 16
1 Kings 19:9b–21
Galatians 5:1, 13–25
Luke 9:51–62

Songs and Hymns:
    - “Come, Follow Me,” the Savior Spake: Text: tr. Charles W. Schaeffer, 1813–96; (sts. 1–3, 5): Johann Schefer, 1624–77; (st. 4): Geistliche Lieder und Lobgesänge, 1695; Tune: Bartholomäus Gesius, c. 1555–1613, adapt.; Text and tune: Public domain
    - My Worth Is Not in What I Own: Text and tune by Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty, and Graham Kendrick, © 2014 Getty Music; used with permission, CCLI license # 20286740.
    - I Will Follow: Chris Tomlin, Jason Ingram, Reuben Morgan; © 2010 Rising Springs Music; Vamos Publishing; worshiptogether.com songs; © 2010 Spirit Nashville Three; So Essential Tunes; Spirit Nashville Three; © 2010 SHOUT! Music Publishing Australia; Used with permission: CCLI license #20286740.
    - Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus: Text: George Duffield, Jr., 1818–88, alt. Tune: George J. Webb, 1803–87 Text and tune: Public domain
    - Grace: Text and tune: Niki Shepherd; Jonny Robinson; Rich Thompson; © 2016 Getty Music Publishing; © Rich Thompson Music; © 2016 Jonny Robinson Music; © Little Life Lines Music; Used with permission: CCLI license #20286740.
    - A Lamb Goes Uncomplaining Forth: Text: Paul Gerhardt, 1607–76; tr. The Lutheran Hymnal, 1941, alt.; © 1941 Concordia Publishing House. Used with permission: LSB Hymn License #110001220; Tune: Wolfgang Dachstein, c. 1487–1553, public domain.
    - God Bless America: Text and Tune: Irving Berlin; © 1938 Irving Berlin. Used with permission: One License #728607-A.

Liturgies:
    - Gloria in Excelsis: Text: Stephen P. Starke
    - Sanctus: Text: Stephen P. Starke
    - Agnus Dei: Text: Stephen P. Starke

#sermon #gospel #timeofthechurch #baptized #nation #strangers #heaven #discipleship #kingdomofGod #Christiancitizenship #baptismalidentity #rejectedbytheworld #heavenlyhome #4thofJuly #followingJesus #ChristianinAmerica #Luke9

Following Jesus in This Nation - Jun 29 - Third Sunday after Pentecost

The great redemptive event of the Bible is the exodus from Israel out of Egypt. God’s plan and actions to rescue his people from slavery form the foundational backdrop for how we understand his heart. But then why do so many texts in scripture seem to accept slavery as a permissible fact? We can find the main answer to this question in the difference between how contemporary people try to solve problems and how God actually solves problems.

Unlike modern politicians or social media users, the Bible hardly ever tries to solve problems through statements or public posturing. Instead, the biblical writers believe the Gospel of Jesus Christ–the good news that in the Messiah God has acted to rescue his creatures and creation from slavery to sin, death, and the Enemy–actually changes broken hearts to redeemed hearts, from the inside out. So the Bible radically opposes slavery, but in a way that actually historically ended slavery: by calling people to the love of Jesus, a love which worked in their hearts to begin treating others–even slaves–as valuable people made in God’s image.

Hosts: Aaron Mueller and Chuck Rathert

Subscribe to the show at https://cacg.saintjamesglencarbon.org.
To comment on this episode, visit https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/cacg-ep121.

Christianity and Slavery (Ep121)

In this Sunday’s message, we reflect on Jesus’ words to the seventy-two He sent ahead of Him: “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few.” In these simple but profound words, Jesus reminds us that the work of building His kingdom is like gathering a great harvest—a work that requires willing hands, faithful hearts, and trust in the One who sends us.

Jesus sends His followers out with little but His Word—no money, no bag, no sandals—yet He promises that their mission is filled with divine purpose. Though they go “as lambs among wolves,” they are not alone. He is with them, and He speaks through them. “He who listens to you listens to me,” Jesus says, affirming the sacred trust of sharing the Gospel.

The seventy-two returned with joy—not because of what they had, but because of what God had done through them. There is no greater joy than to know that God has used you in His harvest. We are reminded that the call to discipleship is not just about going, but about trusting that Jesus is already at work in the hearts of those we meet.

Sent to Harvest — Fourth Sunday after Pentecost, July 6, 2025: https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/2025-fourth-sunday-after-pentecost

Order of service: https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/wp-content/uploads/st-james-20250706-order-of-service.pdf
Online giving: https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/give


Psalm 66:1–7
Isaiah 66:10–14
Galatians 6:1–10, 14–18
Luke 10:1–20

Songs and Hymns:
    - Oh, How Good It Is: Text and tune by Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty, Ross Holmes, Stuart Townend; © 2012 Getty Music; used with permission, CCLI license # 20286740.
    - Lift High the Cross: Tune: Sydney H. Nicholson, 1875–1947; Sydney H. Nicholson, 1875–1947; Text: George W. Kitchin, 1827–1912; rev. Michael R. Newbolt, 1874–1956, alt.; (sts. ref–5): tr. Leopoldo Gros, 1925–2013; © 1974 Hope Publishing Co.; Used with permission: LSB Hymn License #110001220.
    - Let The Nations Be Glad: Aaron Boswell, Matt Boswell, Matt Papa; © 2010 Getty Music Hymns and Songs; Love Your Enemies Publishing; Curb Dayspring Music Used with permission: CCLI license #20286740.
    - Grace: Text and tune: Niki Shepherd; Jonny Robinson; Rich Thompson; © 2016 Getty Music Publishing; © Rich Thompson Music; © 2016 Jonny Robinson Music; © Little Life Lines Music; Used with permission: CCLI license #20286740.
    - When Peace, like a River: Text: Horatio G. Spafford, 1828–88, alt.; Tune: Philip P. Bliss, 1838–76; Text and tune: Public domain.
    - I Lay My Sins on Jesus: Text: Horatius Bonar, 1808–89; Tune: Neu-vermehrtes . . . Gesangbuch, 1693, 3rd ed., Meiningen; Text and tune: Public domain.
    - God Bless Our Native Land: Text (st. 1): Charles T. Brooks, 1813–83, alt.; (st. 2): John S. Dwight, 1813–93, alt.; Tune: Thesaurus Musicus, c. 1740, London; Text and tune: Public domain.

Liturgies:
    - Gloria in Excelsis: Text: Stephen P. Starke
    - Sanctus: Text: Stephen P. Starke
    - Agnus Dei: Text: Stephen P. Starke

#sermon #gospel #timeofthechurch #sent #harvest #discipleship #gospelmission #joyinchrist #Luke10

Sent to Harvest - Jul 6 - Fourth Sunday after Pentecost

In response to the question, “Who is my neighbor?” Jesus tells the parable of the Good Samaritan—a story that has challenged hearts for centuries. But His response is not merely a lesson in compassion. It’s a call to action: “Go and do likewise.”

Through this parable, Jesus redefines what it means to be a neighbor. It’s not about proximity or familiarity, but about mercy. The Samaritan—an outsider in the eyes of many—becomes the true neighbor because he acted in love, even when it cost him something. Jesus invites us into the same kind of faith-based initiative: caring for others with compassion, even when it’s inconvenient.

At St. James, we see the Good Samaritan story lived out in many small but powerful ways. Wherever mercy is extended and burdens are shared, the love of Christ is made visible. Jesus still speaks those words to us today: “You go, and do likewise.”

Go and Do Likewise — Fifth Sunday after Pentecost, July 13, 2025: https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/2025-fifth-sunday-after-pentecost

Order of service: https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/wp-content/uploads/st-james-20250713-order-of-service.pdf
Online giving: https://saintjamesglencarbon.org/give


Psalm 41
Leviticus 18:1–5; 19:9–18
Colossians 1:1–14
Luke 10:25–37

Songs and Hymns:
    - Let The Nations Be Glad: Aaron Boswell, Matt Boswell, Matt Papa; © 2010 Getty Music Hymns and Songs; Love Your Enemies Publishing; Curb Dayspring Music Used with permission: CCLI license #20286740.
    - The Compassion Hymn: Text and tune by Stuart Townend, Kristyn Getty, Keith Getty; © 2008 Thankyou Music; used with permission, CCLI License # 20286740.
    - The Servant Song: Richard Gillard; © 1977 Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publishing; Used with permission: CCLI license #20286740.
    - Draw Near and Take the Body of the Lord: Text: Latin, 7th cent.; tr. John Mason Neale, 1818–66, alt.; Tune: Trente quatre Pseaumes de David, 1551, Geneva, ed. Louis Bourgeois; Text and tune: Public domain.
    - We Give Thee But Thine Own: Text: William W. How, 1823–97; Tune: William H. Monk, 1823–89; Text and tune: Public domain.
    - Here I Am, Lord: Text: Based on Isaiah 6; Dan Schutte, b.1947. Text and music: © 1981, Daniel L. Schutte and New Dawn Music. Published by OCP Publications. Used with permission: One License #728607-A.
    - On What Has Now Been Sown: Text: John Newton, 1725–1807, alt.; Tune: John Darwall, 1731–89; Text and tune: Public domain.

Liturgies:
    - Gloria in Excelsis: Text: Stephen P. Starke
    - Sanctus: Text: Stephen P. Starke
    - Agnus Dei: Text: Stephen P. Starke

#sermon #gospel #timeofthechurch #neighbor #mercy #goodsamaritan #faithinaction #goanddolikewise #Luke10

Go and Do Likewise - Jul 13 - Fifth Sunday after Pentecost

St. James Lutheran Church was established in 1982. We are a church rooted on Grace Alone, Faith Alone, and Scripture Alone. And we are a body of sinners and saints focused on spreading the Good News in the Greater Glen Carbon community.

St. James is located in Glen Carbon, IL at 146 North Main Street. We are located across from Glen Carbon Village Hall and right next to Schon Park.

Woes & Blessings - Feb 23 - Seventh Sunday after the Epiphany

St James Lutheran Church

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