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The Voice of Hope 1
The Voice of Hope
Hope Lutheran Church
1750 SE Lennard Rd., Port St. Lucie, Fl. 34952
Rev. Dr. Earnest E. Tate
Deacon Susan Spee
Office: 772-335-4673
www.hopelutheranpsl.org
email-hopeoffice1@gmail.com
July-August 2018
To the People of God here at Hope:
Rev. Dr. Earnest E. Tate, Pastor
Attributes of Good Leadership by Pastor Tate, Excerpts from Minute Motivators for
Leaders, Stan Toler-Part 5
• Not only do leaders understand their own function-their role-they also know the roles of
the other members on their team. Good leaders never ask people to function in ways
they're not equipped to serve. Leaders know how to place people in their best positions.
• Good leaders act responsibly. They don't need to be told when they're wrong. More often
than not, they'll tell you. They manifest in their own lives the personal openness and
honesty they expect from their associates.
• Leaders expand their work by multiplication, not just by addition. An experienced
leader is always on the lookout for a talented newcomer. Leaders know they are limited
by time and space to meet all the needs of the organization. Leaders spend time
recruiting leaders.
PASTOR’S PAGE
The Voice of Hope 2
• Some very gifted people don't work well with others. They are solo performers. They'll
achieve more on their own than if they were burdened with two assistants.
• The leader knows when the team members need encouragement and when they need
rest. He or she is alert to the signs of fatigue and stress. The leader knows when a pause
will put the team on fast-forward. He or she also understands the power of a good word
in propelling the team to good work.
• A good leader understands that concept and treats team members as individuals. Leaders
understand that people are different and make it a point to understand that uniqueness
in their team members. Some would call that a good management technique. Good
leaders think of it as common courtesy. They treat others as they themselves would like
to be treated.
• Good leaders are comfortable in their own skin. They know what's true about them, and
they don't mind hearing it. They also know their weakness, and so they listen to the
suggestions that will help them fulfill their leadership role. Leaders are honest with
themselves.
• Birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, births-these events mark the passage of life. Good
leaders are aware of the life stages of their team members. By celebrating these special
days, they affirm their team members' value. Leaders are always alert the “precious
moments" of their associates.
• Effective leaders are tactful. While praise is given in the hearing of others, rebuke is
made in private. They never berate or belittle their associates. Their critique is always
wrapped in a blanket of kindness. Seldom will the harsh treatment of a team member
result in better performance. Bitterness, not "betterness" is usually the result.
• Leaders listen to their team. What do the team members need? What are their
suggestions for greater organizational efficiency? How are they relating to the
leadership? To each other? By carefully listening and responding, the leader can make
quick improvements that will dramatically affect the organization.
• Effective leaders have disciplined work habits. They are dependable, punctual,
consistent, and trustworthy. Leaders know how to focus on a project, ovoid distractions,
and move toward a stated goal. Discipline is not optional. Leaders know that a steady,
sustained effort is necessary to accomplish the mission.
• They realize that each of their associates has an extended family. And that extended
family has achievements or setbacks that will directly affect the attitude of the associate.
By expressing an interest in the extended family, the leader expresses a personal concern
that ties him or her to the team member. Leaders like people.
The Voice of Hope 3
• Good leaders are not afraid to admit weakness. In fact, they honestly examine
themselves to identify areas of need. In being transparent about themselves, they can
focus on turning their weaknesses into strengths. Effective leaders aren't afraid to ask
for help. By doing so, they not only open the door to self-improvement but also gain
personal strength.
• It's the leader who must make the hard decisions, deciding quickly and carefully who
goes and who remains, or making the painful decisions that plug the money flow. It's
the leader who must ensure that the needs of the group are met and who is responsible
for making the work or ministry environment either happy or horrible. The leader must
go the extra mile if the organization is going to go farther down the road.
• Leaders take time to communicate with their spouses. They don't leave their listening
ears at the office. They share their dreams, update their spouses on their organizational
plans, and seek their spouses' advice. They treat their spouses. better than their most
trusted associates. Leaders make sure that, of all the people who compete for their
attention, their families get first priority.
Pastor Tate
The Voice of Hope 4
STEWARDSHIP CORNER
We cannot do everything. God's reign is not only beyond
our efforts, it is beyond our seeing and knowing. We plant
seeds, knowing that they hold hope for the future. We lay
foundations that will need further development. There is a
sense of liberation, however, in realizing that. We can do
something, and we can do it very well. We can take that
first step knowing that we may never see the end of the
road, the results of actions, the recipients of our giving. We receive and offer the gift of hope.
The harvest will come.
I am a dirt gardener. Many of my days are spent "growing dirt," preparing the soil for future
plantings. That is an act of hope. We know that we are only workers, not the Master Gardner.
Accepting the gifts of silence, light, the guiding Spirit, and hope, we are co-creators of the
future, which is in God's hands.
Creator God, God of all the yesterdays and all of the tomorrows, grant us the gift of hope.
You give us breath; you give yourself in Jesus; you shower us with your Holy Spirit. Forbid
us from keeping our gifts for ourselves. Forgive us when we attach strings to our gifts. We
have received freely; may we give freely. Amen.
-author unknown
Baptism of Rebecca Fuqua
The Voice of Hope 5
July Events at Hope
The Voice of Hope 6
Hope’s Library
Church Clean-up Day
SATURDAY August 11th is Clean-up
Saturday. There will be a light lunch following,
with free hot dogs for the community.
. VETERAN’S BREAKFAST The veterans will be meeting at Perkins
Restaurant on August 25th at 8:30 a.m. Come and
join us for great conversation! Every veteran has
a story, what’s yours!
Mustard Seed Donations The Women of Hope is suggesting that families
bring canned meat every Sunday for the month of
June to put in the Mustard Seed collection basket
between the narthex and the sanctuary. Each
month we will suggest another item that Hope
can contribute to help Mustard Seed feed those in
need.
Memory Verse 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be
served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom
for many.”
Mark 10:45 New King James Version (NKJV)
Volunteer Hours Thank to all who have volunteered this month
with their time, talents, and resources. There were
over 200 volunteer hours for the months of June
and July. The Bible frequently praises the
virtuous nature of helping those in need which is
the essence of volunteering. According to
scripture, it is right to give our time and/or money
when we have acquired success in life and are
able to do so.
Movie Night On July 27th there was a family night
starting with a garden party @ 4 p.m., potluck
@ 5 p.m. followed by a movie @ 6 p.m. We
had 20 people enjoy food, fun and fellowship.
The featured movie for July was “The King’s
Speech”. The movie for August 31st, will be
“The Counterfeit Traitor” with William Holden
and Lilli Palmer.
The Assistant to the Bishop Rev. Khader El-Yateem will be here to visit
our church on August 12th and he will preach at
both the 9 AM and 11 AM service. There will
be a meeting with him, immediately following
the 2nd service at 12:20 PM. This meeting is for
council members, leaders, counters, and
anyone who is interested in the finances of the
church.
Welcome to Hope We welcome new members to Hope in July.
Through affirmation of faith; Debra Vadala,
Fabrice Larose, and through the Sacrament of
Baptism; Rebecca Fuqa.
The Voice of Hope 7
Hope’s Library
We invite all students, teachers, and educators to bring their backpacks, and workbags as we ask God's blessings on the new school year. Sunday, August 12, 9 & 11 AM
Books on Display Billy Graham Nearing Home Karen Kingsbury – Angels Walking – Chasing Sunsets His Mysterious Ways History of Scotland Secrets of Amish Diary Grand Weaver (How God shapes us through events in our lives) At Home with Jesus Devotions for children Get Off Your Knees and Pray
The Voice of Hope 8
The Apostles’ Creed The Apostles did not write the Apostles' Creed. No one knows for certain when this creed was written.
References to and quotation of similar statements known as the "Rule of Faith" can be found in writings
as early as the second century AD. The name "Apostles' Creed" means that the creed contains the
Apostolic tradition. The Apostles' Creed is the most universal of all the creeds. Most Christian
denominations continue to recite and teach it.
Early creedal statements were very helpful for new Christians in understanding their faith. These early
creedal statements were used in baptism. New believers memorized and studied them before being
baptized. It is quite possible that from these baptismal "formulas," the ancient church developed what we
now call the Apostles' Creed.
Apostles’ Creed Summary of Meaning
I believe in ... (Isa. 44:6)
The basic meaning of creed. It expresses the
beliefs that unite all Christians. The words that
follow preserve the teaching of the Apostles.
God, the Father Almighty (Isa. 44:6)
Not just belief in an impersonal force or in many
gods, but rather, a deep trust in a personal,
caring, loving God.
Maker of heaven and earth: (Gen. 1:1; John
1:1)
God is powerful. Just as God created the
universe, God can heal, save, guard, comfort,
and guide us. The whole universe is his.
And in Jesus Christ, his only Son, (John 9:38;
20:28)
We believe Jesus is the promised Messiah.
Believing in God is also believing
in Jesus.
Our Lord; (Phil. 2:9-11) No nation, no king, no Caesar comes first: only
Jesus is Lord. He has all authority and power;
only he deserves praise and worship.
Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, and
born of the Virgin Mary; (Luke 1:35)
Jesus' birth and life were a miracle. By being
fully human, Jesus has given us an example of
life, taken upon himself the penalty of sin, and
given us a new life and a new future.
The Voice of Hope 9
Suffered under Pontius Pilate, (Luke 23:23-
25)
Many have blamed Jews for Jesus' death. The
Creed makes it clear that Pilate decided Jesus'
death. Jesus died an innocent man. Pilate's
injustice contrasts with God's justice; Pilate's
arrogance contrasts with Jesus' humility.
Was crucified, died, and buried (1 Car. 15:3-
4)
These events really happened. Jesus' crucifixion
and death were not merely staged; Jesus' death
was real and a sad necessity for our sake.
He descended into hell; (1 Peter 3:18-19) The meaning of this line is not clear; some think
it refers to 1 Peter 3:19: "He went and preached
to the spirits in prison." It is also possible to
translate this line as "he descended to the dead,"
emphasizing the reality of Jesus' death. The
phrase was not in the oldest available copy of
the creed.
On the third day he rose from the dead; (1
Car. 15:4)
Jesus' resurrection is fundamental. His
resurrection points to the fulfillment of all
justice and the hope for all believers. Jesus is the
"firstborn from among the dead" (Col. 1:18).
He ascended into heaven and is seated at the
right hand of the Father; (Luke 24:51)
Ascending to heaven and sitting at the right
hand of the Father demonstrate Jesus' authority
over the whole creation.
From thence he will come to judge the living
and the dead. (2 Tim. 4:1; John 5:22)
Jesus' second coming will not be like a humble
lamb. He will return like a triumphant king and
judge. With his authority, he will judge all of
creation. Christians rest assured that there is "no
condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus"
(Rom. 8:1).
I believe in the Holy Spirit, (John 15:26;
16:7-14)
Jesus promised to send us a comforter, guide,
equipper, and advocate. The Holy Spirit is God's
presence in our midst.
The Voice of Hope 10
The communion of saints, (Heb. 10:25)
In Jesus, all believers from all places and all
times are brothers and sisters; we all share the
same fellowship, the same Spirit, and the same
Lord. We, who were many, are now one people
in Jesus.
The forgiveness of sins, (Heb, 8:12; Luke
7:48)
Sin had broken our relationship with God, with
creation, and with one another. Jesus has
reconciled us with God, freeing us from our sin
and death.
The resurrection of the body, and the life
everlasting. (1 Thess. 4:16; John 10:28)
Unlike the Gnostics who viewed every physical
reality as evil, Christians believe that they will
receive new bodies and a new creation. Jesus'
resurrected body was real (he could eat and
could be touched); our resurrection bodies will
also have a physical nature. And we will live
with Jesus forever in a new creation.
Submitted by Pr. Tate, July 29, 2018
Rose Publishing 2015
***************************************************************************************
We will be having a yard sale on
Saturday November 17th from 8 AM
to noon, on the grounds of Hope
Lutheran Church. Start gathering
your items. All proceeds will go to
our General Fund. Anyone vendors
interested in being a vendor can
contact the church at 772-335-4673,
or email Brenda Newins at
b.newins@hotmail.com. Please see
Brenda Newins, Roxie Roberts, or Jim Rodgers with any questions.
The Voice of Hope 11
Current and Future Cell Groups Movie Night Last Friday of the month. Feature Movie August 31st - “The Counterfeit Traitor” starring William Holden and Lilli Palmer- Garden Party @ 4 p.m. Potluck @ 5 p.m. movie at 6 p.m.
Six Reasons to Join a Cell Group – Credit to Holy Spirit Lutheran Church in Juno • Relationships: A life group gives you the opportunity to get to know people at a more intimate level. Sunday mornings are an awesome time to worship with the whole family of God, hear a sermon, engage in fellowship, but a life group gives you a chance to build deeper friendships. • Learning the Word of God: Sunday's sermon is a great time to get a broad teaching of the Word of God. However, life groups provide time for one on one discussion. Your group can provide a time to clarify answers to questions that you have about the Bible, Sunday's message, etc. • Place to invite friends: A life group is a natural place to invite friends and family. Sometimes people are more comfortable going to a life group then attending a Sunday morning service. • Place to pray and share your needs: A gathering of a few people is a natural environment for prayer. A big part of prayer is conversation with God and life groups provide the perfect environment for communing with God. • Engage in worship: Gathering in a life group allows you to experience worship at a very intimate level. • Follow the New Testament teachings: Acts 2:42-47 gives us a blueprint of what the early church was passionately committed to. The early Christ Followers gathered in homes, shared meals, read the Word, prayed, and worshiped. When you participate in a life group you are following the New Testament teaching.
The Voice of Hope 12
Church Council
President - Bob Hanson
Vice President - Fred Heins Theresa Tasker \
Secretary - Nan Billings Joe Weber
Treasurer - Debbie Barr Brenda Newins
COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES – May 14, 2018 In Attendance: Bob Hanson, Fred Heins, Nan Billings, Brenda Newins, Martin Frano,
Debbie Barr, Theresa Tasker, Pastor Tate. Absent excused: Emily Banks. Absent not
excused: Joe Weber
Meeting called to order: 6:35 pm
Pastor Tate opened with prayer
New Business:
Carpet Shampooer – Bob informed us that Debbie Pinto reported the carpet shampooer
caught fire and was thrown away. She asked that a replacement be purchased (Amazon
$127.99). It was suggested that an announcement be made to the congregation to cover the
cost by donation. A motion was made by Debbie Barr to accept the above action, seconded
by Brenda Newins, motion carried. Debbie Barr will notify Debbie Pinto of the action.
Baptisms – Marty brought up concerns about baptisms and usher observation. Nan reported
concern from a parishener also. Pastor specified that he baptises into the “Body of Christ.”
Parking Lot Lines Painted – Fred reported that the parking lot lines are faded and need to
be re-painted: blue for current and additional reserved spaces and white for faded lines. It
was suggested to add this cost to the amount for the shampooer and ask the congregation for
$500 to cover both requests. All were in agreement.
Committee Reports:
Fund Raising/Helping Hands: Theresa sent Bob a letter about bingo and bingo funds and it
was discussed.
The Voice of Hope 13
Secretary’s Report: Brenda asked that we make changes to April’s minutes: Specify
excused/not excused in attendance section (Bob will check with Joe to see why he has not
been able to attend) and change Old Business report for Changing titles for administrators for
facebook to: Brenda reported that Ellen King was not able to change titles for administrators
for Facebook. Ellen WAS able to make name changes as follows: Administrators
exclusively will be Pastor Tate, Ellen King, Debbie Pinto and Theresa Tasker. A motion was
made by Theresa Tasker to accept the April minutes as corrected, seconded by Brenda
Newins, motion carried.
Financial Secretary’s Report: First, there was a discussion that a yearly audit should be
initiated in November to be available before Annual Meetings. There was then a discussion
about the cost of the Houston trip. In order for the church to help support the youth, the
church needs to know details about the trip – total amount needed, what has been raised and
what still needs to be raised. Pastor then gave us guidelines for ministries from the
Tradewinds Conference:
1. The activity/ministry must be consistant with the mission of the church.
2. Can we make it work ($, manpower, persons taking ownership)?
3. Is the timing right?
4. Is there enough capitol to make it work?
Policy/Personnal Committee: Debbie Pinto and Ellen King signed their secretary contract,
which will run through the end of December. Diane did not sign (as she is moving). Marty
Frano made a motion to accept the report, seconded by Debbie Barr, motion carried.
Treasures Report: Bob said that there is most likely enough funds to make April’s
“interest only” payment and possibly also May to be caught up-to-date. Castle paid through
the end of the their contract. A motion was made by Nan Billings to accept the report,
seconded by Theresa Tasker, motion carried.
President’s Report: Bob will be in Vermont next month and will not be at the June council
meeting. Discussion about the Tradewinds Conference and positive reports from those who
attended.
The Voice of Hope 14
Together in Mission Report: Nan supplied her monthly report and informed that she will
be meeting with Prince of Peace on June 5th to discuss initiating their community garden.
Women of Hope Report: Nan reported that 24 women attended the Tea, ladies from
Melborne to Boca Raton enjoyed food and fellowship.
Pastor’s Report: Pastor will e-mail council his report. He said that 4 (maybe 6) children
will be confirmed on Sunday, May 27th after a 2-year program. He gave an overview of the
program. He also highlighted main points from the Tradewinds Conference.
Old Business:
Interview with Amanda Sofia – Brenda reported that she and Ellen King interviewed
Amanda after reviewing her resume. Unfortunately she has been hired by another church
and has not responded about musicians who may be interested in joining the band.
Weddings at Hope – Debbie Barr spoke with and gave a tour of Hope to Weddings by
Rachael wedding coordinator, Rachael. She suggested we focus more on Sweet 16, baby
showers, etc. More discussion about other possibilities such as focusing on conferences, etc.
and provide an open house for persons such as caterers, photographers, musicians, wedding
planners, etc. Debbie will contact her contacts and Nan will contact Jane at Silver Platter.
Pastor will look into allowing/not allowing alcohol.
Next Regular Council Meeting will be Monday, June 11, 2018 at 6:30pm
Meeting ended at 8:32pm with the Lord’s prayer.
Respecfully submitted by Nan Billings
The Voice of Hope 15
COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES – June 11, 2018 In Attendance: Fred Heins, Nan Billings, Theresa Tasker, Emily Banks, Pastor Tate.
Absent excused: Bob Hanson, Debbie Barr, Brenda Newins. Absent not excused: Joe
Weber
Meeting called to order: 6:35 pm
Pastor Tate opened with prayer
Secretary’s Report: Discussion that the editor of the newsletter should have permission
from the council to edit the council minutes where appropriate and provide highlights of the
council minutes in the newsletter. All were in favor. A motion was made by Theresa Tasker
to accept the May minutes, seconded by Emily Banks, motion carried.
Financial Secretary’s Report: A motion was made by Nan Billings to accept the report,
seconded by Emily Banks, motion carried.
Treasures Report: A motion was made by Nan Billings to accept the report, seconded by
Emily Banks, motion carried.
Committee Reports:
Fred Heins initiated discussion about the need to develop committees: identify chairpersons,
grow and maintain committees (Ushers, Grounds, Alter Guild, Maintenance, Music,
Christian Education, Stewardship, Policy and Proceedures, Evanulisiam, Fundraising and
Missions). Council would encourage each committee to have a representative attend council
meetings to report on activities going on in the church. Pastor shared his flow chart with an
infrastructure of church activities and the sequence they should follow. It was decided that
to best implement these ideas that council will meet on Saturday, July 14, 2018 from 1pm to
3pm for a workshop to prepare and set a date for a Congregational Retreat.
Women of Hope Report: Nan reported that a donation of $200 was made to the Youth
Gathering Houston trip and that the women will breaking for the summer, resuming in
August.
Together in Mission Report: Nan supplied monthly report for May: $325 spent, 31 hours
worked, 8 volunteers and 19 persons served. Outreach garden for Prince of Peace will be
Monday, July 23.
The Voice of Hope 16
Old Business:
Repairs: $800 was requested from the congregation to pay for a new carpet shampooer,
lawn mower repairs, and paint to paint the lines in the parking lot. Fred reported that $1170
was collected. The additional funds were able to go toward an unexpected bill for AC repair
of $873.
New Keys: Fred reported that 3 keys have not been returned to the office from persons who
are no longer attending Hope. The office manager has reccommended that the locks be
changed. The cost is $400. She also suggested that when keys are given out that the church
collects a key deposit fee of $25 from each person who receives a key. Theresa Tasker
made a motion to accept the above action. Seconded by Emily Banks, motion carried.
Pastor’s Report: Pastor Tate reviewed his report which included an overview of the
confirmation curriculum and faith statements shared during their confirmation by the four
new confirmands, Ana Bergerman, Philip Bergerman, Fisher Nelson and Reef Nelson. He
also shared highlights from the Florida-Bahamas Synod Assembly and reminded council
that Hope will be celebrating their 35th anniversary this year.
Vice-President’s Report: See below – New Business
New Business:
Next Years Council – Fred brought it to the councils attention that now is the time to be
thinking of new council members and council president. Discussion concluded that two new
items are needed: a council nominating committee and an annual internal audit. These will
be added to the July 14 workshop agenda.
Next Regular Council Meeting will be Monday, July 9, 2018 at 6:30pm
Meeting ended at 8:05pm with the Lord’s prayer.
Respecfully submitted by Nan Billings
The Voice of Hope 17
July Birthdays
7/03 Margaret Eubank
7/11 Gwendolyn Smith
7/14 Karen Harris
Josselyn Dawson
7/21 Diane Roma
7/22 Jim Rodgers
August Birthdays
8/01 Brenda Newins
8/02 Shelley Tillman
8/03 Randy Roberts
Sandra DelSerro
8/06 Ryan Barr
8/07 Marilyn Wheeler
8/11 Jenna Billings
8/16 Marion Zimmerman
8/22 Bob Kirchhoff
8/24 Karen Kenninger
8/25 Corrianne Billings
July Anniversaries
7/11 Frank & Karen Harris (54)
7/16 Dan & Fran Calik (44)
August Anniversaries
8/03 Gary & Nan Billings (44)
8/18 Steven & Gayle Gambill (34)
Altar Flowers
The flower chart is in the usher area. Pease select your favorite date. We have several openings for the next few months. Flowers can be sponsored for $30.00 per Sunday. If you want to pay for only one bouquet you can do so by contacting Ellen in the office. The cost is $15.00. Two families can sponsor flowers on the same Sunday. Please place your money in the offering clearly marked for flower’s including your name or turn it into the office. If you have any questions, please contact Ellen King in the office on Thursday and Friday. •
The Voice of Hope 18
Salient points in the sermon
Rev. Dr. Earnest E. Tate, Pastor
Salient points in the sermon, Mark 3: 20-35 on June 10, 2018
• In our text, Jesus has difficulty with his family. His family says, “He is out of his mind”
(v. 21). An insane person is someone who may be out of touch with reality. A person
who, in his or her mind may be living in another world. Jesus’ reality is named “the
kingdom of God.” It is a system of values. It has expectations that differs from the way
of the world. Jesus is not out of his mind. Jesus is in another frame of mind; the kingdom
of God.
• How do we respond to this kind of Conflict? What can we do to bring healing and
reconciliation to our relationships? In order to model Jesus and bring healing to our
family, we have to practice humility. If we go to a family gathering with the idea that
we are going to set everybody straight, we are probably going to leave bent out of shape.
If we have to always be right, we are wrong. If we have to win every argument, we are
going to lose.
• Ephesians 4:31-32 says, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander,
along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving
each other, just as in God forgave you”. We forgive because we have been graciously
forgiven, and in doing so, we model the love of Christ. I Corinthians 13:5 says that love
“keeps no record of wrongs.”
• We are to strive to think about things in the same manner that Jesus thinks about things.
Jesus insists that belonging to his family requires obedience. People who do God’s will
are those who believe the message of Jesus. Jesus loves us. Amen.
Salient points in the sermon, Mark 4: 26-34 on June 17, 2018
• Parables are like stories by which we enter the world of the storyteller. Regardless of
our educational level, we are able to become part of a common experience of hearing
and understanding. Parables are effective vehicles for the truth only when we are open
to hearing the truth. The parables in our text convey truths. Parables can be powerful
when they are received by us who have the faith to understand and respond to the truths.
• Most of Jesus' parables were designed to illustrate a truth about the Kingdom of God for
those with "willing ears"--as indicated in verse 4:30. What do we think of when we hear
the phrase, “Kingdom of God?” Do we think of some future time, when there will be
perfect peace and no problems?
The Voice of Hope 19
• These parables are directed to those who believe; those who are receptive to the Holy
Spirit. I believe that those with the Holy Spirit are able to hear and comprehend, not by
our own intellect, but by the power of the Holy Spirit.
• Our spiritual life is like a garden. It takes time and over time, paying careful attention to
the Word of God. We will be able to sense the direction of God. It is like this: If we
want tomatoes today, planning them yesterday will not do us much good. We should
have planted them several weeks ago.
•
Salient points in the sermon, Mark 4: 35-41 on June 24, 2018
• Is there anyone here this morning that Jesus has invited to sail into a “storm.” Was it our
idea to care for a love one who has been hospitalized, unemployed, separated, or
divorced and now they are living in our home; living in a home where our health is may
be failing, our finances may not be good, the relationships in our household may not be
good? Did we want our life to be disrupted in order to care for another person during
this stage of our life?
• Sometimes God leads us into the storms. We say, in the 23rd Psalm, “He leads me beside
still waters.” But sometimes God leads us into a storm. In 1 Samuel 17:1-49, David, the
young shepherd is led to face the giant Goliath. In our epistle, Paul is in the middle of a
big fight at the church in Corinth. David may have preferred to stay home, safely looking
after the sheep.
• The challenge we may face is that we get frustrated when we are in the storms of life
and the water seems to get into our boat. Do we believe that getting wet is a sign that
God has abandoned us and that the storms of life will overcome us? Well, if the storms
of life surround us, then we should pray. Our feet might get wet, but we are not going
to drown!
• God reaches out to us, embraces us, cares for us, comes to us – but not always. There
are times when we call upon God in prayer, but our prayers are not answered. There are
times when we cry out in distress, but we are not delivered. What then? Are we able to
let God be God, even when God does not appear to be listening to us? The disciples
were afraid, but they stay in the boat with Jesus. When all is said and done, that is true
faith. They did not jump over board. Whatever the storms may be at Hope Lutheran
Church, we can weather the storms together with the Holy Spirit as our guide. Look
around us. We are family here.
The Voice of Hope 20
Salient points in the sermon, Mark 6:1-13 on July 8, 2018
• Jesus received rejection and resistance because of his work and his words. His way was
a narrow way, a way that everyone is not willing to walk. He warned his disciples that
they might face rejection. He was, they were, and sometimes we will be "prophets
without honor." Being a Christian, a prophet, a truth-teller in the name of Jesus, means
learning to make distinctions between our way and God's way, our truths and God's
truths.
• Discipleship was and always will be costly. It is costly because it costs us our lives. We
are not preserved from tragedy and heartache. Discipleship sometimes pushes us into
painful situations. While Christ does not guarantee us from any pain or difficulties, he
does offer us a way through pain. If we are truly called, God’s grace will be sufficient
for us.
• Perhaps we should reinforce Martin Luther's vision of the priesthood of all believers.
We are ordained by God at baptism to share Christ's ministry in the world. Pursuing
that vocation, we may wear several hats; hat of a ground keeper, staff, counter, usher,
musician, altar guild member, Sunday School teacher, etc. but whatever hat we happen
to be wearing at the time, we as ministers, remember that we wear the hat as God's
representative, for God's sake, in God's name.
• Jesus was limited in what he could do, by what the people were prepared to receive.
Some of the works that Jesus had done in other places could not be done in Nazareth
because of the attitude of the people. This should remind us that God’s ministry is a two-
way street. Teaching requires both a teacher and a learner. Both must be active in the
process. Love requires at least two people. Unless both participate, a true relationship
cannot be developed. Jesus loves us because the bible tells us so. Amen.
Salient points in the sermon, Mark 6:14-29 on July 15, 2018
• There is pressure everywhere. There is pressure that we even put on ourselves; get a job,
advanced degree, home, a car, get marriage, have a family. Well, we can respond to
pressure like Herod. We can be manipulated to make decisions contrary to what we
know is right. To withstand the pressures that come upon us, we can see it in the life of
Jesus Christ. The Sadducees who wanted Jesus to stay out of politics.
• Does John the Baptist challenges us today? Where have we fallen short of God's
standards in our life? Are we aware that every now and then, how quickly things can go
terribly wrong when we forget to put God first in our lives? All that is required for evil
to triumph is for good people to do nothing." Can we look back this week on our
conversations regarding the way we have dealt with the people around us?
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Are we prepared like John the Baptist was-to be trustworthy spokesperson all the time
and in all places?
• The Scripture says, "Because of his oaths and because of his dinner guests ... " he did
this evil deed. Do we keep silent when we see others manipulated? Do we just sit and
watch, to see how they will handle it, or what they will do? Do we let people know that
they do not have to please us; that our friendship is not based on them agreeing with us?
Do we let people know that they don't have to live their lives asking, "What will they
think?" The person we need to be pleasing is God. The question we need to have before
us at all times is not "What will they think?" but "What will God think (the bracelet,
WWJD)?
• Are we aware of the proverb, "he who fights and runs away, lives to fight another day."
That may not be true. He may live, only to run away again at the next crisis. Romans
12:2 reminds us that, "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the
renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is good, and acceptable, and perfect will
of God" (Ro.12:2).
Salient points in the sermon, Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 on July 22, 2018
• Jesus' disciples report to him all the good things that they have accomplished. Then
Jesus commands them to rest. Jesus permits his disciples to get away from the crowd to
be refreshed, to be restored. Jesus commands us to take a vacation. Take some time off.
We can do God's work as it is delegated to us. We can work and pray and do our best to
be the light and salt to the world. The most important work is God's. So, if we have not
yet taken a vacation, gotten away from it all, experienced a change of scenery, or
wandered into the wilderness, we should take a break. After all, Jesus commands us to
rest.
• Rest is not only vital to our spiritual lives, it is imperative, if we are to be effective.
Christ understood this principle and made it a point to get away both with His disciples
and by Himself from time to time in order to rest and to be rejuvenated. I believe that it
was Jesus way of “recharging” Himself spiritually, physically, and emotionally. Are we
too busy for our own good? In our business, are we actually accomplishing less and
aging more?
• Go home, have dinner, sit back in a comfortable chair or sofa and just relax. Tune out
all the distractions and talk to God for a while. Just let God know how we feel. Listen
for God to respond.
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Then spend the rest of our day loving on our kids, our spouse, our significant other, or
give a family member a call and tell them how much they mean to us. Go outside and
enjoy this beautiful day that the Lord has made. Let us be glad and rejoice in it.
• Rest and let your soul be rejuvenated! May your spirit echo the words of King David
when he declared: Return to your rest, O my soul, For the Lord has dealt bountifully
with you. Psalm 116:7
Salient points in the sermon, John 6:1-21 on July 29, 2018
• When Jesus goes up the mountain, the crowd follows. He does not turn away those who
seek him. Do we know the pain of rejection, of being unwanted? Have doors ever been
shut in our faces; doors of opportunities? Have windows ever been locked; window of
advancing? Jesus sits waiting to help us. I believe that help is on the way. “Jesus is
tenderly calling thee home….” Imagine the people that Jesus sees coming toward him.
Are they liars, thieves and beggars? Are they murderers and malcontents? I do not
believe that Jesus asks us for our resumes or credentials. When we come to Him, I
believe that Jesus welcomes all who come to him just as we are.
• Even before the people ask for bread, Jesus, the Bread of Life, is making provision for
them. Where does the provision come? A quiet little boy with 2 fish and 5 loaves of
bread shares with Jesus. What happens? Everybody is blessed. No gift is too small for
Jesus. All gifts given to Lord bless the entire body of Christ. What we give to the Lord
is a blessing to all.
• Have we ever been in a situation where we felt so overwhelmed that we could not see a
possible way out? Perhaps we did not have to feed five thousand people with five barley
loaves (the bread that the poorest of the poor ate) and two fishes. But we may have felt
that we were up against the impossible and wondered what God was going to do for us.
• My story is an encouragement and a challenge for our young people. Are there some
similar situations here today? Was there a need for ourselves, a family member, or a
friend that we felt so overwhelmed that we could not see a possible way out? Yet, God
made a way out of no way. God calls us to trust God to supply our needs. God will
provide for our needs not our wants. God knows what God is going to do. Jesus loves
us.
The Voice of Hope 23
Charlies Rodriguez, Vicky Rodriquez, Brenda Vadala, Rudy Pinto, Norman Kalie,
Kathleen Jarrach, Brook Blake, Laura Gelchie, Dan Calik, Micheline Berthaut, Joan
Ojala, Delia Gonzalez, Terry Sullivan, David Evans, Daisy Aleman, Bert Cain, Marian
Zimmerman, Grace Benway, Peggy Vogt, John King, Nino Peterson, Howard Munson,
Dick Woodcock, The John Prell Family, Carmen Faillaci, Tom Jameson, Josephine
Vandermosten, Bette White, Hella Cushing, Thomas Faillaci, Clemmie Vincent, Carole
Arcoleo, Eric Weston, Jean Carroll, Chelsey Olson, Bob Hendertilo, Dolores Hart, Cathy
& Herb Schaus, Inge Brooks, Priscilla Carpenter, Marilyn Wheeler.
Members in Residential Care Inge Brooks-Emerald Health Pricilla Carpenter- The Gardens Grace Benway – Lake Forest Park
Members of Our Armed Forces SPC Cody Allen USA - Afghanistan Master Sgt. John King -USAF Reece Tucker - USMC 2nd Lt. Sierra McCrae – USA Ryan Killing - USAF
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Kathy Ann’s
8709 South Federal Hwy
Port St. Lucie
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`
Christine Antczak
Personal Assistant Grocery/Shopping Email & Computer
Light Cleaning Organization
Prescriptions Filing & Paperwork
General Errands Pet Sitting
Home – 772-800-7698 Email -
Cell – 772-302-4362 c.antczak@comcast.net
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We are asking anyone interested in singing with the CHOIR to please see Karen Keat or any choir member for information. Please come out and sing with us. We will start again in the Fall. Enjoy your summer!
For information please call Karen Keat: 772-237-5363.•
Worship the Lord with gladness. Come before him, singing with joy. (Psalms 100:2)
If you would like to be in the BELL CHOIR, please see
Karen Keat for information.
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1750 SE Lennard Road, Port St. Lucie, Fl. 34952 772-335-4673 www.hopelutheranpsl.org
Rev. Dr. Earnest E. Tate, Pastor minet49@aol.com
If you do not have an e-mail address or access to online we will gladly mail you
an issue. Please contact the church office.
Click & go to www.hopelutheranpsl.org
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