Zion Lutheran Church, Shipman, IL

09/05/2026

Sunday, Sept. 6, 2026 +++15th SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST+++
Home Worship (Plus at Zion [8:45 am] or at St. John’s [10:30 am])

“OWE NO ONE ANYTHING EXCEPT TO LOVE ONE ANOTHER” says the Apostle Paul in the Second Reading today. What haunting words in our time of high emotions about politics, world conflict, racial tensions, and continuing financial challenges in our nation and in the world. And, what about similar conflicts in the church where a member refuses to change from being “lost”? How does Jesus approach these issues?

Zion Lutheran Church, Shipman, IL
St. John’s Lutheran Church, Dorchester, IL

INTRODUCTION
Conflict is a part of relationships and life in community. Jesus’ words in today's gospel are often used in situations having to do with church discipline. The prophet Ezekiel tells of warning the wicked to turn from their ways, and Paul reminds us that love is the fulfilling of the law. We gather in the name of Christ, assured that he is present among us with gifts of peace and reconciliation.

HYMN: *ELW* #522, “As We Gather at Your Table”
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zBrw4S2xHWc

CONFESSION AND FORGIVENESS
Blessed be the holy Trinity, ☩ one God, who pours love into our hearts and healing upon the earth.
All: Amen.
Confident that God justifies us by grace through faith, let us confess our sin.
(A Brief Silence for Reflection)
Compassionate God,
All: we confess that we struggle to embody your goodness in the world and in our own hearts. Creation groans from overuse. Jealousy and bitterness strain our relationships. Indifference keeps us from seeking justice. Divisions disrupt your call to show genuine love to others. Turn our hearts back to you. Restore our world and reconcile us to one another. Renew us to live as your holy people, following the way of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Hear this Good News: We have peace with God through ☩ Jesus Christ, in whom there is no condemnation, but only forgiveness and the promise of eternal life. Receive freely this healing gift of grace.
All: Amen.

PRAYER OF THE DAY
O Lord God, enliven and preserve your church with your perpetual mercy. Without your help, we mortals will fail; remove far from us everything that is harmful, and lead us toward all that gives life and salvation, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. AMEN.

FIRST READING: Ezekiel 33:7-11 (Relentless Grace)
Introduction: God appointed Ezekiel as a sentinel for the house of Israel. Ezekiel must faithfully convey God’s warnings to the people. Remarkably, God—who is about to attack Jerusalem—gives a warning with the hope that repentance will make the attack unnecessary.

PSALM: Psalm 119:33-40
Refrain: I desire the path of your commandments. (v. 35)

SECOND READING: Romans 13:8-14 (Relentless Love)
Introduction: The obligation of Christians is to love one another and so fulfill the heart and goal of the law. Clothes make the person as we “put on the Lord Jesus Christ” and live today in light of the future God has in store for us.

GOSPEL: Matthew 18:15-20 (Relentless Reconciliation)
Introduction: Jesus offers practical advice to his disciples on how individuals—and the church as a whole—should go about restoring relationships when one member has sinned against another.

BRIEF SERMON REFLECTION

“Owe no one anything except to love one another,” says the Apostle Paul in the Second Reading today. What haunting words in our time of high emotions about politics, world conflict, racial tensions, and continuing financial challenges in our nation and in the world. Such stormy times continue all around us.

For Matthew writing his Gospel to his community, such storminess in how to live out their Christian identity included Jesus’ call in the Sermon on the Mount to “Love your enemies”! What a challenge to Jesus’ disciples and to Matthew’s community! And still a challenge for us today. How do we live with those with whom we disagree?

And in Matthew 25, Jesus challenged faith communities of every age to love especially the needy and the marginalized and to see HIS face in those in need when he said: “Inasmuch as you have helped one of the least of these, you have helped me.” That is what Paul is echoing today: “Owe no one anything except to love one another.”

The personal and interpersonal storminess continues in our Gospel Reading today. It is the interpersonal storm in Matthew’s church about how to live together in community when one member has sinned hurtfully against another within that same fellowship.

The offense is not defined. But the verses that surround this reading talk about the one sheep in 100 that is lost and in need of the shepherd’s searching. Other nearby verses talk about an offense of being a stumbling block to another’s fragile faith. And the chapter begins with Jesus’ call for everyone to become childlike in humility and ends with the challenge to offer unbounded forgiveness of seventy times seven to the one who offends (forgiveness even Peter himself received after he denied knowing Jesus!).

So, what are we to make of this storminess in the church where a member refuses to change from being “lost” in some way and is in need of a shepherd’s rescue? If the member refuses the cautionary counsel of other believers, Jesus asserts: “let that one be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.” Those were hated outsiders in the Holy Land of Jesus’ day, BUT they were the special recipients of Jesus’ compassionate mission: like Matthew the tax collector and like the Gentiles—and all nations!—that Jesus tells his followers to reach out to in his “Great Commission” at the end of Matthew’s Gospel.

The Risen Jesus empowers us with his very own Spirit and Mission to reach out to the lost, especially those who make us uncomfortable! And he—Emmanuel—will be with us to inspire us. Even beyond our comfort zone!

HYMN: *ELW* 716, ”Lord of All Nations, Grant Me Grace”
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2SjMoS0xz4A

PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION

(Our prayers include the realization that, as we are able, *we* are called to be—and to support—God’s agents of care in the very things that we pray for)

Reminded of God’s gracious and abundant love, we offer our prayers, confident that God hears us. (A Brief Silence)

Proclaiming God, empower your church throughout the world to announce the words you give us. Open us to receive your word in unexpected ways. Hear us, O God. YOUR MERCY IS GREAT.

Forming God, renew the cycles of your creation that provide for the needs of all. Protect grasslands, marshes, swamps, and all places of transition. Heal communities crying out after disaster, especially in Nepal and Tibet. Hear us, O God. YOUR MERCY IS GREAT.

Governing God, turn all who create, enforce, or interpret legislation away from selfish gain and toward your promise of good for all, especially the good of all who labor. Hear us, O God. YOUR MERCY IS GREAT.

Attending God, wake us up to any around us who are in need. Restore broken relationships, failing health, frayed emotions, and the hurts we carry with us. We pray especially for those we name in our hearts. Hear us, O God. YOUR MERCY IS GREAT.

Gathering God, resolve conflicts in this community through your righteousness and grace. Reconcile us to each other, making your Good News known even through our imperfections. Hear us, O God. YOUR MERCY IS GREAT.

Loving God, all who die in faith have life with you. We give you thanks for the nearness of your salvation for those dear to us and all who have gone before us. Hear us, O God.
YOUR MERCY IS GREAT.

Grant the prayers we have offered, what we have forgotten to ask, and whatever else you see that we need. We ask this in Jesus’ name. AMEN.

THE LORD’S PRAYER
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.

HYMN: *ELW* 836, “Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee”
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMY3ivdNzwE

BLESSING
The God of love draw you into full accord and one mind, in the body of Christ Jesus.
AMEN.
The God of hope grant you strength and joy in all circumstances through the interceding of the Spirit.
AMEN.
The God of grace ☩ bless you now and forever.
AMEN.

DISMISSAL
Go out in joy. Be led forth in peace.
THANKS BE TO GOD.

(Service material reprinted by permission of Augsburg Fortress License #12567-S)

08/22/2026

It’s that time of year!
Time for Zion’s Annual Church Picnic and Backpack Blessing!!

Service will be held at 10:30 am, tomorrow August 23rd in the Shipman park- directly across from the church.

Our sister church, St. John’s of Dorchester will be joining us!

Anyone heading back to school or back to work, bring your backpack along for a special blessing for the coming year.

A potluck meal will follow. Fried chicken, drinks and table service will be provided. Please bring a dish to share if you are able, and a lawn chair for comfy sitting! Rumor has it that there will also be homemade ice cream!

Bring your kids, your kids' friends, (and their backpacks of course), your family, your neighbors, and anyone else you see.

We'll also be collecting school supplies to share with local schools for kids that could use a little help.

There's a lot going on tomorrow!
Hope to see you there!

08/16/2026

Sunday, August 16, 2026 + TWELVTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST +

HOME WORSHIP (Zion [8:45 am] or at St. John’s [10:30 am])



Zion Lutheran Church, Shipman, IL St. John’s Lutheran Church, Dorchester, IL

INTRODUCTION

In Isaiah we hear that God’s house shall be a house of prayer for all people and that God will gather the outcasts of Israel. The Canaanite woman in today’s gospel is a Gentile, an outsider, who is unflinching in her request that Jesus heal her daughter. As Jesus commends her bold faith, how might our church extend its mission to those on the margins of society? In our gathering around word and meal we receive strength to be signs of comfort, healing, and justice for those in need.

HYMN: *ELW* 886, “O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing”

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yKP_XxCBDZY

CONFESSION AND FORGIVENESS

Blessed be the holy Trinity, ☩ one God, whose compassion endures forever.

All: Amen.

Let us confess our sin to God. (A Brief Silence for Reflection)

Compassionate God,

All: we confess to you all our sins. Our burden is heavy, and we cannot free ourselves. In your mercy, call us back to you. Your yoke is easy and your burden is light. Restore us to dwell in your peace. In Christ’s name we pray, Amen.

Jesus says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” In the name of God, Father, ☩ Son, and Holy Spirit, your sins are forgiven. Rest in God’s love.

All: Amen.

PRAYER OF THE DAY

God of all peoples, your arms reach out to embrace all those who call upon you. Teach us as disciples of your Son to love the world with compassion and constancy, that your name may be known throughout the earth, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. AMEN.

FIRST READING: Isaiah 56:1, 6-8 (A House of Prayer for All Peoples)

Introduction: The prophet calls upon Israel to do justice in view of God’s imminent intervention to save. Righteousness and obedience define who belongs to the Israelite community—not race, nationality, or any other category.

PSALM: Psalm 67 Refrain: Let all the peoples praise you, O God. (Ps. 67:3)

SECOND READING: Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32 (God’s Mercy to All, Jew and Gentile)

Introduction: God has not rejected Israel. Rather, the call and gifts of God are irrevocable so that, while all have been disobedient, God has mercy upon all.

GOSPEL: Matthew 15:10-28 (The Healing of the Canaanite Woman’s Daughter)

Introduction: Jesus teaches his disciples that true purity is a matter of the heart rather than outward religious observances. Almost immediately, this teaching is tested when a woman considered to be a religious outsider approaches him for help.





BRIEF SERMON REFLECTION

Jesus did not stay within the boundaries of his time, much to the frustration of authorities. He broke through not just geographic boundaries but religious, ethnic, and social boundaries as well.

Jesus intentionally broke geographic and ethnic boundaries in visiting the Canaanite communities of Tyre and Sidon. Canaanites and Jews had often been in conflict, so it was not that surprising when the disciples attempted to prevent a Canaanite woman from seeing Jesus. She was breaking boundaries herself in asking that Jesus heal her child. Jesus’ first response seems harsh, but as the woman persisted and acknowledged him as “Lord” (something the disciples had been slow to grasp), he healed her child.

In this encounter, Jesus demonstrated that God’s love cannot be held back by boundaries created by humans based on who we are, where we are from, what we have done, our background, our position in society, and more. God’s grace and restoration are available to all, with no exceptions.

And yet, history is filled with accounts of bias, discrimination, oppression, segregation, persecution, and genocide. Tragically, this continues today in a multitude of ways and a multitude of places.

As present-day disciples, we are called to follow Christ in breaking boundaries, challenging biases, and welcoming all to celebrate God’s love at the font and the table. So, what boundaries do we need to break to work for peace and proclaim the good news? How are we and our congregations fighting bias, discrimination, oppression, and persecution wherever we can? How are we persistently asking Christ to heal and restore fractured communities and nations around the world?

HYMN: *ELW* #588, ”There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy”

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BjcSpCSUjdk

PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION

(Our prayers include the realization that, as we are able, *we* are called to be—and to support—God’s agents of care in the very things that we pray for)

With bold trust in God’s unfailing provision, we pray for the church, those in need, and all of God’s creation.

For believers around the world who stream to your holy mountain, that all be united in faith and harmony in the body of Christ. Let your church on earth be a witness to the beloved community of your heavenly kingdom. Merciful God, RECEIVE OUR PRAYER.

For your wondrous creation, that it thrives and flourishes as you intend. Raise up wise stewards to defend the natural world against carelessness and destruction. Safeguard endangered species and their habitats. Merciful God, RECEIVE OUR PRAYER.

For the nations of the world and all in authority, that they heed the cry of the outcast and ensure care for the most vulnerable. Give wisdom to leaders of countries, congregations, and communities, that they lead and serve justly. Merciful God, RECEIVE OUR PRAYER.

For all who are lonely, grieving, or struggling with chronic pain, that they find comfort, community, and hope. Send relief to all who struggle with illness of any kind, especially those we name in our hearts. Merciful God, RECEIVE OUR PRAYER.

For this congregation, for visitors and those new to this faith community, that all may recognize the presence of Christ in each new face. Draw this community together in love and strengthen it in unwavering faith. Merciful God, RECEIVE OUR PRAYER.

For the saints before us whose work is done, that their faithful example continues to direct your church. May their witness remind us that your gifts and calling are irrevocable, whether in life or death. Merciful God, RECEIVE OUR PRAYER.

Receive our prayers and answer, O God, as you have promised. All this we ask in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.

THE LORD’S PRAYER

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.

HYMN: *ELW* #759 “My Faith Looks Up to Thee”

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oqD9wfEAFgI

BLESSING

Creator, Redeemer, Sustainer, ☩ one God, bless, heal, and hold you today and always.

AMEN.

DISMISSAL

Heaven has come near. Go, share the good news!

THANKS BE TO GOD.



(Service material reprinted by permission of Augsburg Fortress License #12567-S)





ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH

238 Virginia Street

Shipman, IL 62685 Eldon Reid, Organist

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NEXT SUNDAY: 8:45 a.m. – Worship

Sunday School – Students go to basement after Children’s Sermon

LAST SUNDAY: ATTENDANCE: 24

OFFERING: $770.00

BIRTHDAY FUND: $0.00

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Zion will be collecting school supplies through August. The school supply box is in front. You can bring them to the church picnic next Sunday or August 30th.

We will start collecting for Pack-A-Sack again in September. We will collect pudding and jello cups for the month of September.

Zion received a Thank You from Royal Family Kids Camp for the donation we sent them. They had 58 staff and 32 campers signed up. This is the largest group ever. See the card and letter on the bulletin board.

Zion’s council will meet, today, August 16th after worship in the upper Sunday School room. Get your goodies and head on up!

Following is the ice cream left over from the picnic. One gallon of chocolate ice cream ($10.00); and four - 1.5 quart containers of strawberry ice cream (Great Value (2) @ $3.00 ea. and Bunny Soft Serve (2) @ $4.00 ea.); left over from the picnic. If you are interested in buying some of this, see Rose, Jan or Margie.

The joint church picnic is next Sunday, August 23rd at the Shipman Park at 10:30 am. There will be a potluck after worship. Chicken, drinks and table service will be provided. Bring a dish to share and your lawn chair. We will also have the “Blessing of the Backpacks” this day (so bring your backpack, briefcase, work bag, etc.). I believe there will be homemade ice cream.

Faith Forward is a wonderful resource for incorporating faith activities in our everyday lives to pass on our faith to the next generation! To find more information and sign up for the weekly newsletter go to this link https://faithforwardnow.org/church/zionshipman/. To sign up, find the sign-ups on the bottom of the page link above!

MARTHA’S PANTRY: They can always use Kleenex, paper towels, and toilet paper. If you could help them out, that would be great! Please place them in the laundry basket at the front of the church.





ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN CHURCH

110 Water Street

Dorchester, IL 62033 Eldon Reid, Organist

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NEXT SUNDAY: 10:30 a.m. – Worship

LAST SUNDAY: ATTENDANCE: 20

OFFERING: $645.00

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There is a box downstairs for school items. If you’d like to donate please place in the box Items needed: Women’s personal hygiene items, Travel size deodorant & Shampoo, Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Travel size lotions, Chap Sticks (we use a LOT of these, especially in the lower grades), Packs of underwear sizes from kids to adults, Socks all sizes, Pencils, Erasers for pencil tops, Highlighters, Colors ( crayons brand only please), Cereal Bars, Nutra-Grain bars, Cheese crackers, Goldfish.

The joint church picnic is next Sunday, August 23rd at the Shipman Park at 10:30 am. There will be a potluck after worship. Chicken, drinks and table service will be provided. Bring a dish to share and your lawn chair. We will also have the “Blessing of the Backpacks” this day (so bring your backpack, briefcase, work bag, etc.).

Faith Forward is a wonderful resource for incorporating faith activities in our everyday lives to pass on our faith to the next generation! To find more information and sign up for the weekly newsletter go to this link https://faithforwardnow.org/church/stjohnsdorchester/. To sign up, find the sign-ups on the bottom of the page links above!

08/07/2026

Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026 + SEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST +
Home Worship (Plus at Zion [8:45 am] or at St. John’s [10:30 am])

IN THE MAIN READING TODAY, JESUS ALSO INVITES US WITH PETER to get out of the safety of the boat and walk WITH him on the watery chaos of our lives, as he reaches out his hand and catches us and calls us to faithful trusting in his Way of Love and Compassion. Even when life is at its most chaotic, the Crucified and Risen One says to all his followers, “Fear not, I am with you always.”

Zion Lutheran Church, Shipman, IL
St. John’s Lutheran Church, Dorchester, IL

INTRODUCTION
Elijah finds the presence of God not in earthquake, wind, or fire, but in the sound of sheer silence. When the disciples face a great storm on the sea, they cry out with fear. Jesus says: “Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid.” Amid the storms of life, we gather to seek the calm presence of Christ that soothes our fears. In comforting words of Scripture and in the refreshing Bread and Cup of the Eucharist, God grants us peace and sends us forth to be a sign of God’s presence to others.

HYMN:*ELW* 632, “O God, Our Help in Ages Past”
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yKP_XxCBDZY

CONFESSION AND FORGIVENESS
Blessed be the holy Trinity, ☩ one God, whose compassion endures forever.
All: Amen.
Let us confess our sin to God. (A Brief Silence for Reflection)
Compassionate God,
All: we confess to you all our sins. Our burden is heavy, and we cannot free ourselves. In your mercy, call us back to you. Your yoke is easy and your burden is light. Restore us to dwell in your peace. In Christ’s name we pray,
Amen.
Jesus says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens,
and I will give you rest.” In the name of God, Father, ☩ Son, and Holy Spirit, your sins are forgiven. Rest in God’s love.
All: Amen.

PRAYER OF THE DAY
O God our defender, storms rage around and within us and cause us to be afraid. Rescue your people from despair, deliver your sons and daughters from fear, and preserve us in the faith of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. AMEN.

FIRST READING: 1 Kings 19:9-18 (Trusting God’s Silence)
Introduction: On Mount Horeb, where God had appeared to Moses with typical signs of God’s presence—earthquake, wind, and fire—Elijah now experienced God in “sheer silence.” God assured Elijah that he is not the only faithful believer. Seven thousand Israelites are still loyal. God instructed Elijah to anoint two men as kings and to anoint Elisha as his own successor.

PSALM: Psalm 85:8-13
Refrain: I will listen to what the Lord God is saying. (Verse 8)

SECOND READING: Romans 10:5-15 (Trusting God’s Message)
Introduction: A right relationship with God is not something we achieve by heroic efforts. It is a gift received in the proclamation whose content is Jesus Christ. This proclaimed word creates our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Hence Christian proclamation is an indispensable component of God’s saving actions.

GOSPEL: Matthew 14:22-33 (Trusting God’s Presence)
Introduction: Matthew’s Gospel typically portrays Jesus’ disciples as people of “little faith,” who fail despite their best intentions. In this story, Matthew shows how Jesus comes to the disciples when they are in trouble and sustains them in their time of fear and doubt.

BRIEF SERMON REFLECTION

You may or may not be a fan of Eleanor Roosevelt, but one time when she was asked about her secret to a fulfilling life, said: “Do one thing a day that scares you!” In the Gospel Reading, I’m wondering if Peter was thinking exactly that when Jesus invited Peter to get out of the boat and join him walking on the water. It turns out that Peter was indeed scared—when he noticed the strong wind—and so he began to sink. Peter was sinking, not only because he was afraid. He had good reason to be fearful: the wind was strong and it was stormy. The sea could be scary, even for fishing experts.

You and I also become afraid when life gets stormy, literally or figuratively. We have had some strong thunderstorms in recent weeks with gushing rain and crashing lightning. That can be scary enough. But also for many of us in these days of national and international concerns, financial uncertainty, all kinds of challenges, and, for many of us, aging issues too, it is so stormy in our lives that sometimes it seems that it is an act of faith to get out of bed in the morning.

A symbol of the Church in earliest times was a boat, like the one that Jesus’ disciples were navigating in this Gospel Reading and, as you may remember, also like the one they were in when the storm raged on the Sea of Galilee and Jesus was apparently “asleep” in the back of the boat. Then also Jesus needed to reassure his followers that they need not be afraid when storms come, because he would be with them.

The sea in ancient times was also a symbol of chaos, when things were totally out of control. It is important to see that Jesus was in control, walking “on top of” the chaos.

In fact, Jesus also invites us with Peter to get out of the safety of the boat and walk on the water with him, as he reaches out his hand and catches us and calls us to faithful trusting in his Way of Love and Compassion. Even when life is at its most chaotic, the Crucified and Risen One says to all his followers, “Fear not, I am with you always.”

And, as we walk with him on top of—in spite of!—the chaos in our lives and trust his presence with us, we rediscover a measure of true Peace despite all of life’s challenges. Then, with the strength of his Spirit, we can be partners with our Companion in sharing his Way of Love and Compassion with all whose lives we touch, sharing the Peace that we know from intimate experience.

HYMN: *ELW* #756, ”Eternal Father, Strong to Save” (The “Navy Hymn”)
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BjcSpCSUjdk

PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION

(Our prayers include the realization that, as we are able, *we* are called to be—and to support—God’s agents of care in the very things that we pray for)

With bold trust in God’s unfailing provision, we pray for the church, those in need, and all of God’s creation. (A Brief Silence)

We pray for the servants of your Gospel in every place, that your word may be heard. Where your voice is scorned and your people persecuted, strengthen the church in its faithful witness. Merciful God, RECEIVE OUR PRAYER.

For this world you have created, that all life may flourish. Preserve biodiversity in all its variety and help ecosystems to survive the extremes of a changing climate. Move our hearts with compassion to join in this work. Merciful God, RECEIVE OUR PRAYER.

For leaders of towns, states, nations, and organizations, and all who are in positions of authority, that they lead with justice and integrity. Teach us to respond with Christlike mercy to all who are afraid or in danger. Merciful God, RECEIVE OUR PRAYER.

For all who struggle amid the storms of life, that they find peace and hope in your loving presence. Comfort any who are lonely and grieving and all who suffer, especially those we name in our hearts. Merciful God, RECEIVE OUR PRAYER.

For this congregation and its ministries, that they reflect your love and life amid a turbulent world. Guide council members and other church leaders with your still, calm voice. Merciful God, RECEIVE OUR PRAYER.

We give thanks for the faithful who have gone before us, especially those dear to us. Guide us in our earthly journey, that we may one day join them in your eternal kingdom. Merciful God, RECEIVE OUR PRAYER.

Receive our prayers and answer, O God, as you have promised. All this we ask in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.

THE LORD’S PRAYER
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.

HYMN: *ELW* #774 “What a Fellowship, What a Joy Divine”
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oqD9wfEAFgI

BLESSING
Creator, Redeemer, Sustainer, ☩ one God, bless, heal, and hold you today and always.
AMEN.

DISMISSAL
Heaven has come near. Go, share the Good News!
THANKS BE TO GOD.

(Service material reprinted by permission of Augsburg Fortress License #12567-S)

08/01/2026

Thanks to all who joined us and all who volunteered for this morning's VBS!

07/26/2026

Sunday, July 26, 2026 + NINTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST +

HOME WORSHIP (Zion [8:45 am] or at St. John’s [10:30 am])

Zion Lutheran Church, Shipman, IL St. John’s Lutheran Church, Dorchester, IL

INTRODUCTION

As Solomon prays for wisdom, we seek to more deeply know the treasures of faith. In today’s gospel Jesus offers everyday images that reveal to us the reign of God: a tree that becomes a sheltering home, yeast that penetrates and expands, a treasured pearl, a net that gains a great catch. Even as we seek the riches of God’s reign, the great surprise is that God’s grace finds us first!

HYMN: *ELW* #793, “Be Thou My Vision”

You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mMXAp6LpP-8

CONFESSION AND FORGIVENESS

Blessed be the holy Trinity, ☩ one God, whose compassion endures forever.

All: Amen.

Let us confess our sin to God. (A Brief Silence for Reflection)

Compassionate God,

All: we confess to you all our sins. Our burden is heavy, and we cannot free ourselves. In your mercy, call us back to you. Your yoke is easy and your burden is light. Restore us to dwell in your peace. In Christ’s name we pray, Amen.

Jesus says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” In the name of God, Father, ☩ Son, and Holy Spirit, your sins are forgiven. Rest in God’s love.

All: Amen.

PRAYER OF THE DAY

Beloved and sovereign God, through the death and resurrection of your Son you bring us into your kingdom of justice and mercy. By your Spirit, give us your wisdom, that we may treasure the life that comes from Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. AMEN.

FIRST READING: 1 Kings 3:5-12 (Solomon’s Prayer for Wisdom)

Introduction: Because Solomon did not ask for long life, riches, or the defeat of his enemies, God gave him what he asked for: wisdom to govern the people well.

PSALM: Psalm 119:129-136 Refain: When your word is opened, it gives light and understanding. (Ps. 119:130)

Second Reading: Romans 8:26-39 (Nothing Can Separate Us From God’s Love)

Introduction: These words celebrate the depth of God’s actions for us. Through Christ’s death for us and the activity of the Spirit praying for us, we are fused to God’s love poured out in Jesus Christ. Nothing, not even death itself, is able to separate us from such incredible divine love.

GOSPEL: Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52 (Parables of the Reign of Heaven)

Introduction: Throughout Matthew’s gospel, Jesus and his disciples proclaim the good news that “the kingdom of heaven is near!” Here, Jesus offers several brief parables that explore the implications of this announcement for people’s lives.

BRIEF SERMON REFLECTION

The things we learn early on in life matter. Maybe the first time you rode a bike taught you about a deep sense of fulfillment. The first time your heart swooned with romance taught you about a whole new dimension of love. Painfully, we find out the stove is hot by that first, uninformed touch, and we learn to watch for the flame. That first heartbreak sows some mistrust in future relationships.

These core memories inform how we see and interact with the world, shaping our expectations and actions. They are like seeds planted deep that grow and grow within. As Jesus speaks in this parable of weeds among the wheat, we are reminded that within us are both good seeds and invasive plants that get in the way. As our early memories remind us, people can sow both good and evil. There is fulfillment and romance, and there is pain and mistrust—good seeds and pesky weeds.

In a radical move, God the gardener has planted the deepest seed, a seed of grace. And herein lies the promise of this story from Jesus: Though we may try to uproot the sin—the weeds—separating us from God and each other, only God can make this grace come to life. With dusty overalls and a warm smile, God, the greatest gardener, removes the weeds of pain and mistrust. In Jesus, all that separates us from one another and from God is no more. The earliest seed planted deep within (even before we can remember) is the seed of grace that cultivates the deepest connection to God.

How have you seen God’s grace at work in you, and how has the Spirit sown trust and connection in your life?

HYMN: *ELW* #769, ”If You But Trust in God to Guide You” (v.1 solo, no words on screen)

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3KfvdAy2Pg

PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION

(Our prayers include the realization that, as we are able, *we* are called to be—and to support—God’s agents of care in the very things that we pray for)

Trusting in God’s steadfast love for all God has made, let us pray for the church, the world, and all of creation. (A Brief Silence)

God our wisdom and our song, we pray for bishops, candidacy committees, those preparing for seminary, those awaiting call as deacons or pastors, and all who seek to lead your disciples in any way. God of grace, HEAR OUR PRAYER.

God our breath and our heartbeat, help us to recognize signs of your presence among us. Protect and

support diverse ecosystems, from national parks to family farms, from ranches to wild places. God of

grace, HEAR OUR PRAYER.

God our peace and our guide, help civic leaders hear all their peoples’ stories with compassion and

curiosity, and remind us of your love from which we can never be separated. God of grace, HEAR

OUR PRAYER.

God our intercessor and our lawgiver, dismantle the barriers to care and recognition of all who live with

chronic illness, mobility struggles, pain, and uncertainty, especially those we name in our hearts.

God of grace, HEAR OUR PRAYER.

God our redeemer, may we trust your love above and beyond all else that distracts, annoys, frightens,

exhausts, or divides us. God of grace, HEAR OUR PRAYER.

God who seeks, finds, and saves, for our community’s part in the ongoing gift of creation, and for the riches of faith and hope which came before, we give you thanks. God of grace, HEAR OUR PRAYER.

Grateful for your abundant provision and trusting in your goodness, we cast all our cares upon you, through the abundant grace of Christ Jesus. AMEN.

THE LORD’S PRAYER

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.

HYMN: ELW #663, “Spread, Oh, Spread, Almighty Word”

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2snw-qvGH1I

BLESSING

Creator, Redeemer, Sustainer, ☩ one God, bless, heal, and hold you today and always.

AMEN.

DISMISSAL

Heaven has come near. Go, share the good news!

THANKS BE TO GOD.

(Service material reprinted by permission of Augsburg Fortress License #12567-S)

Sung by the Choir and Congregation of First Plymouth Church, Lincol...