Shows
Palos Lutheran ChurchGod's Plans Always SucceedJesus ascended into heaven. That does not mean the gospel has ceased to march victorious around the world! Jesus promised to send another advocate to represent God to the world: the Holy Spirit. The Spirit is the constant companion of believers in these Last Days. This raises an important question. If God now reveals himself by his Spirit, where is the Holy Spirit found? God has not left the answer to that question in doubt. When Jesus promised to send the Spirit, he indicated that his work would be connected to words, specifically God's Word. As a result, we need nev...
2022-06-0518 minPalos Lutheran ChurchJesus Is More Than Just A Nice Guy (5.29.22)When the Church gathers, it regularly remembers Christ's ascension. The words "He ascended into heaven" are found in all three ecumenical creeds which we use to confess our faith. In addition, the Church sets aside a day each year on which this event takes center stage. This is for good reason. Jesus' ascension marked the fact that his work was complete. Never again will a sacrifice for sin need to be made. However, Jesus' ascension also marks that his work is just beginning. Through the Church Jesus now proclaims forgiveness throughout the world. The Church consists of people like us who a...
2022-05-2918 minPalos Lutheran ChurchWho Is The Real Prisoner?Conventional wisdom says that joy is a direct result of circumstance. Our disposition is nothing more than a product of the events, conditions, and relationships of which our life consists. Therefore, it would seem that for our disposition to change, our circumstances need to change. But Jesus offers us a joy that is superior. It is not a product of circumstance; it's a product of Easter. Easter proves that God can take what normally causes people to weep and turn it into what causes people to rejoice. Sin, death, and shame went into Jesus' tomb. Forgiveness, life, and glory came out...
2022-05-2219 minPalos Lutheran ChurchWhat Defines A Christian (5.15.22)The disciples argued among themselves about who was "greatest" (Luke 22:24). We are not immune from such hubris. Sinful man is entirely self-focused. We often try and prove our goodness by comparing ourselves to others. You see this sense of superiority in the way we prioritize life, typically putting our wants ahead of others. Easter ends this focus on self. Right now, we know we have value, not because of the greatness of our actions, but because of the great things Christ did to save. We also know a resurrection to glory is in our future. Easter helps us avoid the trap...
2022-05-1518 minPalos Lutheran ChurchGod is My ShepherdThe world is full of talkers. There are plenty of people who say they care about you. But we are aware of what many of those people will do when it comes time to put those words into action. Jesus tells you in his Word that he cares for you dearly... that he would do anything for you. How do you know you can trust him? Jesus followed up his words with works. Jesus said he would suffer and die for you, so that you might enter Paradise. He fulfilled that promise. Jesus words are followed by works. He once il...
2022-05-0815 minPalos Lutheran ChurchVictroy Over RestraintThe good news of the risen Christ is bigger than a single day. The Easter gospel will continue to march across centuries and continents. However, there will always be forces that try to slow that march. Those forces could be self-inflected fears and doubts. They could be various types of persecutions. Whatever the case, the good news of Easter will not be restrained. For it is not some myth or fable, not a hoax or conspiracy. The reality of Easter rests on the testimony of eyewitnesses. Therefore, the gospel cannot be boxed in any more than Christ could be put b...
2022-04-2418 minPalos Lutheran ChurchEaster Victory March (4.17.2022)Easter Sunday sermon at Palos Lutheran Church, Palos Heights, IL. Sermon message on 1 Corinthians 15:51-57.
2022-04-1714 minPalos Lutheran ChurchWashed in Blood (4.15.2022)Good Friday sermon at Palos Lutheran Church, in Palos Heights, IL.
2022-04-1615 min2022-04-1516 min2022-04-1010 minPalos Lutheran ChurchAn Unlikely Cornerstone (4.3.22)God the Father sent his Son into the world knowing that the world would reject the Son. The cornerstone of the Church would be the One the religious experts rejected.
2022-04-0320 minPalos Lutheran ChurchDo We Really Like This Parable (3.27.22)We assume people get what they deserve. We assume what goes around comes around. We assume God helps those who helps themselves. And all those assumptions must be crushed. Got does not operate on the principle of merit but of grace. Like gravity, grace is a constant force at work in how God deals with us and how he wants us to deal with others. No one is beyond the reach of God's grace. God never turns it off. When the weight of our sin makes us fearful of God's condemnation, he reveals his grace yet again.
2022-03-2719 minPalos Lutheran ChurchFalse Security Crushed (3.20.22)Where is God? This is one of human beings' most frequently-asked and incorrectly-answered questions. We are tempted to believe that evidence of God's presence is found in outward circumstances. We equate good fortune with God's favor and bad fortune with his judgment. So, as long as nothing terrible is happening, God must not be too angry with us, right? We are free to go on sinning. Such foolish assumptions must be crushed. Therefore, God must constantly remind us where he intends to be found—in the gospel. He makes himself present in Word and sacraments. Because he is always present...
2022-03-2018 minPalos Lutheran ChurchNo Shortcuts to the Goal (3.13.22)Last week we talked about temptation. This week we see what is at the center of every temptation: a promise of a shortcut to glory. Even in a world as sharply divided as ours, there is near universal agreement that the preferred path to glory is the shortest and easiest. To walk the path our Savior puts us on, one on which the cross comes before the crown, puts us out of step with the world. Thankfully, the determination required to walk this path starts with our Savior and not with us. Because of his determination, we are offered a glory...
2022-03-1317 min2022-03-1029 minPalos Lutheran ChurchTemptation Crushed (3.6.22)It was a custom known as "battle by champion." Two opposing armies would each send out their best warrior to fight each other. That is what we see this week. The demons send their champion: Satan. Humanity's best warrior, Jesus Christ, steps forward to meet him. In this fight he does not use his divine power. He uses the same weapon we have, God's Word. Because Christ fought the battle against Satan as one of us, he won that battle for all of us. Jesus is our perfect substitute. Even as the devil still seethes in rage against us, we can...
2022-03-0617 minPalos Lutheran ChurchWitnesses To Christ - John the BaptistThis Lent, our life in Christ will be strengthened as we hear the witness of those who were present as part of Jesus' journey to the cross. Along the way, we'll meet villains, such as Barabbas, and Pontius Pilate; sinners, such as Peter, Mary Magdalene, and Judas Iscariot; as well as others. We begin our Lenten journey with our attention focused on John the Baptist.
2022-03-0314 minPalos Lutheran ChurchIt Is Good For Us To Be Here (2.27.22)Throughout Epiphany, we have seen that God must uncover for us the truths that could not be discovered by us. As this season ends, we are presented with a twist. For God's glory to be revealed, it actually must be covered. God's glory needed to be hidden in Christ. It is hidden in the gospel. This is how God enables sinful human beings to see his glory and, rather than turning away in fear, stare at it in wonder for as long as they want. The truth God uncovers for us today: when his glory is hidden, it is most on...
2022-02-2720 minPalos Lutheran ChurchA Winning Strategy (2.20.22)Last week we saw that the governing principles of Christ's kingdom initially seem upside down. This week we see that truth in how Christ would have us react to those who wrong us or oppose us. Jesus asks us to befriend our enemies, to love those who hate us, and to repay evil with good. Logic would say that is a recipe for being walked all over. Yet, have we not seen this tactic work? When we were Christ's enemies, he loved us to the point of death. He repays our daily evil with the daily goodness of his mercy...
2022-02-2018 minPalos Lutheran ChurchLearn To Rejoice (2.13.22)When someone is new to something, there is a period of orientation. For example, when someone takes up a new game or sport, they need to first learn the rules. Likewise, when someone is a new disciple of Jesus, a period of orientation follows. It's necessary, because by nature we assume that Jesus' kingdom works the same way the world works. The truth that is uncovered this week is that the principles on which Jesus' kingdom runs are the exact opposite of the principles of the world. That which the world considers to be a blessing can often be a cu...
2022-02-1317 minPalos Lutheran ChurchGod Wants You (2.6.22)It does not surprise us that from the beginning of his ministry Jesus demonstrated his commitment to proclaiming good news of the kingdom of God, regardless of whether people rejected his message or embraced it. That was Christ's agenda, and he was committed to it. What is surprising is that, also from the beginning, Jesus demonstrated his plan to carry out this proclamation by sending others to speak on his behalf. More surprising is whom he sends, not angels, but mere human beings. In many cases, it was individuals who seemed to lack the qualifications to speak on Christ's behalf...
2022-02-0621 minPalos Lutheran ChurchDon't Be A Hero (1.30.22)Last week we saw that there can be a temptation to alter the message we proclaim to avoid apparent failure and rejection. This week we see that there is also a temptation to alter the message we proclaim because of apparent success. If a church makes its central focus things like personal improvement, healing for the sick, or social justice, that church may draw a crowd. It just fails to carry out the agenda Christ has given his Church. The gospel of forgiveness is to be the center of all our preaching and teaching. The agenda for Christ's Church is set...
2022-01-3019 minPalos Lutheran ChurchA Love Story (1.23.22)Is the pursuit of God and the pursuit of pleasure two separate paths? Many make that assumption—that life with Jesus is a boring, sterile experience. They are dead wrong. Jesus came to undo everything that is wrong with our world as a result of sin's curse. He also came to multiply our joy and deliver delight beyond our wildest dreams. Note that when Jesus begins to reveal his glory, it isn't by going to a hospital to cure every ailment. Instead, he starts at a local wedding, one of the greatest sources of joy in this life. The truth...
2022-01-2319 minPalos Lutheran ChurchGod's Favor Doesn't Play Favorites (1.16.22)When one proclaims God's Word, typically the intentions are good. We want others to know the joy of salvation and the love of Christ. Therefore, it can be surprising to us when God's Word is met with apathy or rejection by those who hear it. It's easy to conclude that when the Word of God offends human minds and hearts (including our own), something has gone wrong. The truth that is uncovered this week is that rejection of Jesus' words is not the exception but the rule. Jesus' words will always offend. However, we will see that God can use even...
2022-01-1620 minPalos Lutheran ChurchWhat the eye sees...differs from what God decrees (1.9.22)Our sight tends to be the sense we trust most. We say we will believe something when we see it. That presents a problem when it comes to the work of God. So often what our eye sees differs from what God decrees. This is true of the life of Jesus. In the eyes of the world, he was nothing special. This is also true in the life of the Christian. To the world, the believer does not look more blessed than the unbeliever. In fact, the believer may appear to have more hardships as the devil and his...
2022-01-0913 minPalos Lutheran ChurchGrateful...Not Worthy (1.2.22)The twelve days of Christmas are over. Likewise, our worship series—What Child Is This—comes to an end today with the Festival of the Epiphany, a celebration of the first time non-Jewish believers worshiped the newborn Savior. They were guided by a special light in the sky to a child who would be a light for all people. We live in a world where sin can divide people along so many lines: ethnicity and race, rich and poor, red states and blue states, etc. The only dividing line Jesus cares about is the one that separated sinful mankind from a h...
2022-01-0219 minPalos Lutheran ChurchWhat Child Is This? God made Flesh (12.25.21)The Lord had told Moses, "No one may see me and live." If sinners cannot even bear to look upon the glory of God, then they certainly could not hope to live with God in the glory of heaven. So, on that first Christmas, God chose to hide his glory under flesh. What child is this? It is God and man in one person, exactly what the human race needed to deliver it from its enemies of sin, death, and Satan. Christmas Day serves up the deep stuff of Christmas: the miracle and mystery of the incarnation.
2021-12-2511 minPalos Lutheran ChurchWhat Child Is This? (12.24.21)This Christmas Eve, an angel answers that question. "A savior has been born to you." It is a stunning statement, for two reasons. First, this child looks nothing like what we would expect in a hero-savior. This child is weak, helpless, and mired in poverty. Second, he has come to bring salvation "to you." It is a salvation we all need desperately. It was God's gift to us, given on that first Christmas Eve.
2021-12-2508 minPalos Lutheran ChurchRejoice in the Lord Always (12.12.21)Last week we saw that the Lord sends mesengers to call us to repentance. This week we learn that those who refuse to heed that call to humble themselves will be humbled anyway. The Lord who once came near in flesh and now comes near in Word and sacrament will one day come near with consuming fire and judgment. The Lord will humble his enemies. This truth does two important things. First, it adds urgency to God's Advent call to repentance. Second, it gives us comfort when we, as God's people, experience opposition from the world. Those who oppress...
2021-12-1217 minPalos Lutheran ChurchAngels We Have Heard On High - Appears To Mary (12.8.21)The Angel Gabriel appears to Mary
2021-12-0816 minPalos Lutheran ChurchWhen the Lord Comes Near...He Humbles His People (12.5.21)People tend to feel a lot of pressure this time of year. We want our houses to look good for out-of-town guests. We want to impress people with the thoughfulness of our gifts. What a welcome relief, therefore, to hear what is required to meet the Lord: only repentance. You see, Jesus is not someone we need to impress with our good works. Indeed, repentance is the opposite of work. Repentance is the humble admission of our sin combined with the joyful trust that everything needed to bring us close to God has already been done by him. Sermon...
2021-12-0517 minPalos Lutheran ChurchWhen the Lord Comes Near...He Humbles Himself (11.28.21)What would it be like to meet God? We know he is almighty and holy. He loathes sin. No wonder that when God appears to his Old Testament people, their first response is typically terror. But when Jesus Christ came into our world, he hid his glory and power. He humbled himself so that sinners would be drawn to him rather than driven away in fear.
2021-11-2817 minPalos Lutheran ChurchSometimes, It's Hard To Be Thankful (11.24.21)Sometimes it's hard to be thankful. We know we can be thankful for the blessings in our life, but what about the sorrows? Sometimes it's hard to be thankful. Tonight, we hear the Apostle Paul's secret to being thankful in all circumstances. The sermon is taken from Philippians 4:10-13.
2021-11-2515 minPalos Lutheran ChurchA King Like No OtherWhat do Ramesses II, Alexander the Great, & Genghis Kahn have in common? Besides being great rulers in their time, all of them are dead. The same can be said for every other ruler out there...except one. The one we call Christ the King. Listen to Pastor Rieke remind us what Christ accomplished as king, and why that can give us grace and peace. The sermon is taken from Revelation 1:4-8.
2021-11-2218 minPalos Lutheran ChurchFour Certainties (11.7.21)Ben Franklin once said, the only sure things in life are death and taxes. Today in our sermon, Pastor Rieke reminds us of not one, not two, but four certainties there are in this life. These certainties don't come from our observations of the world around us, but from the absolutely reliable Word of God. The sermon message is from Hebrews 9:24-28.
2021-11-0715 minPalos Lutheran ChurchTHe Potter's Greatest Desire (10.31.21)504 years ago, Martin Luther nailed his 95 thesis (or discussion points) on the Castle Church door in Wittenberg, Germany, which was the spark that started the Lutheran Reformation. But the Reformation is more than a splitting of Christian denominations, but a reminder of the reformation that needs to go on in our hearts daily. Using a pottery object lesson from Jeremiah 18, Pastor Rieke reminds us of the potter's greatest desire.
2021-10-3119 minPalos Lutheran ChurchGet Used To Different (10.24.21)Jesus says that the way of a Christian is different. It's not that Christians should act different, it's that Christians do act different. Listen to Pastor Rieke's sermon describing this difference in how we view the world when it comes to glory and when it comes to service. Sermon is taken from Mark 10:35-45.
2021-10-2420 minPalos Lutheran ChurchPursue a better greed (10.17.21)Why does the Bible talk so much about money? It's not because God needs your money. It's not because the Church needs your money. It's because God knows how easily money can become an idol in our life. In Pastor Rieke's sermon from 2 Kings 5, he shows us God's power to transform a greed for material wealth into a greed for spiritual wealth.
2021-10-1724 minPalos Lutheran ChurchGive Yourself Up (10.10.21)Why think about other's before yourself? Why should wives submit to their husbands? Why should husbands love their wives like Christ loved the church? Why should children obey their parents? Why should parents not exasperate their children? We see the reason why in Ephesians 5. Because Christ gave himself up for us.
2021-10-1019 minPalos Lutheran ChurchIs Envy Worth It? (10.3.21)God's gifts are so generous to people. Yet, how often do we rejoice in the blessings of others, compared to envying those blessings? In Pastor Rieke's sermon this week, he reminds us that envy has been around a long time, and he also reminds us of God's solution to envy. This sermon is taken from Mark 9:38-50)
2021-10-0415 minPalos Lutheran ChurchGreatness is serving others greatly (9.26.21)There's a little part of every one of us that wants to be great, and not only great, but greater than others, perhaps even the best. Pastor Rieke in his sermon calls out this flawed view of greatness, and encourages us to focus on the greatness that Jesus has in mind. Greatness that he himself demonstrated for us. This sermon is based on Mark 9:30-37. This sermon was recorded on Monday due to the technical difficulties Pastor Rieke mentioned at the beginning of the video.
2021-09-2716 minPalos Lutheran ChurchGod's Word Gives Us Reason To Celebrate (9.18.21)Pastor Turriff guest preaches for our 75th Anniversary on Saturday, September 18, 2021. Sermon is based on Deuteronomy 11.
2021-09-2020 minPalos Lutheran ChurchDo Jesus' Words Offend You? (9.5.21)So easily we focus on the things of this world, thinking that if we could satisfy our longings, then we would be content: “If only I had more money in my retirement account, then I’d be happy.” “If only I had a new/different job, then I’d be happy.” “If only I could get that new car/house/dress/pair of shoes, then I’d be satisfied.” It never works. For what we really need is food not for this world, but food for our souls. We need to have an answer for our guilt. We need to know that our sins a...
2021-09-0522 min
Palos Lutheran ChurchDo You Want To Live Forever? (8.29.21)So easily we focus on the things of this world, thinking that if we could satisfy our longings, then we would be content: “If only I had more money in my retirement account, then I’d be happy.” “If only I had a new/different job, then I’d be happy.” “If only I could get that new car/house/dress/pair of shoes, then I’d be satisfied.” It never works. For what we really need is food not for this world, but food for our souls. We need to have an answer for our guilt. We need to know that our sins a...
2021-08-2919 minPalos Lutheran ChurchDon't let a Life of Bread crowd out the Bread of Life (8.22.21)So easily we focus on the things of this world, thinking that if we could satisfy our longings, then we would be content: “If only I had more money in my retirement account, then I’d be happy.” “If only I had a new/different job, then I’d be happy.” “If only I could get that new car/house/dress/pair of shoes, then I’d be satisfied.” It never works. For what we really need is food not for this world, but food for our souls. We need to have an answer for our guilt. We need to know that our sins a...
2021-08-2216 minPalos Lutheran ChurchSearch for bread that does not spoil (8.15.21)So easily we focus on the things of this world, thinking that if we could satisfy our longings, then we would be content: “If only I had more money in my retirement account, then I’d be happy.” “If only I had a new/different job, then I’d be happy.” “If only I could get that new car/house/dress/pair of shoes, then I’d be satisfied.” It never works. For what we really need is food not for this world, but food for our souls. We need to have an answer for our guilt. We need to know tha...
2021-08-1520 minPalos Lutheran ChurchCan Five Loaves Feed Five Thousand? (8.8.21)So easily we focus on the things of this world, thinking that if we could satisfy our longings, then we would be content: “If only I had more money in my retirement account, then I’d be happy.” “If only I had a new/different job, then I’d be happy.” “If only I could get that new car/house/dress/pair of shoes, then I’d be satisfied.” It never works. For what we really need is food not for this world, but food for our souls. We need to have an answer for our guilt. We need to know tha...
2021-08-0818 minPalos Lutheran ChurchThe Glory of the Lord is King (8.1.21)What would it be like to see God with your own eyes? We’re told in the Bible, that as sinful people, we cannot look upon the face of the holy God and live. But we are given several instances in the Bible of God showing off a tiny bit of his glory. This is aptly called the glory of God. Starting this weekend, we will look at five instances of God showing us a tiny glimpse of who he is. Be sure to join us as we get a glimpse at the face of God. Sermon is taken from Rev...
2021-08-0117 minPalos Lutheran ChurchThe Glory of the Lord explains everything (7.25.21)What would it be like to see God with your own eyes? We’re told in the Bible, that as sinful people, we cannot look upon the face of the holy God and live. But we are given several instances in the Bible of God showing off a tiny bit of his glory. This is aptly called the glory of God. Starting this weekend, we will look at five instances of God showing us a tiny glimpse of who he is. Be sure to join us as we get a glimpse at the face of God. Sermon is taken from Act...
2021-07-2520 minPalos Lutheran ChurchThe Glory of the Lord fills his house (7.18.21)What would it be like to see God with your own eyes? We’re told in the Bible, that as sinful people, we cannot look upon the face of the holy God and live. But we are given several instances in the Bible of God showing off a tiny bit of his glory. This is aptly called the glory of God. Starting this weekend, we will look at five instances of God showing us a tiny glimpse of who he is. Be sure to join us as we get a glimpse at the face of God. Sermon is taken from 1 K...
2021-07-1821 minPalos Lutheran ChurchShow Some Respect - Take Off Your Shoes (7.11.21)What would it be like to see God with your own eyes? We’re told in the Bible, that as sinful people, we cannot look upon the face of the holy God and live. But we are given several instances in the Bible of God showing off a tiny bit of his glory. This is aptly called the glory of God. Starting this weekend, we will look at five instances of God showing us a tiny glimpse of who he is. Be sure to join us as we get a glimpse at the face of God. Sermon is from Ex...
2021-07-1123 minPalos Lutheran ChurchThe Glory of the Lord means certainty (7.4.21)What would it be like to see God with your own eyes? We’re told in the Bible, that as sinful people, we cannot look upon the face of the holy God and live. But we are given several instances in the Bible of God showing off a tiny bit of his glory. This is aptly called the glory of God. Starting this weekend, we will look at five instances of God showing us a tiny glimpse of who he is. Be sure to join us as we get a glimpse at the face of God.
2021-07-0417 minPalos Lutheran ChurchWhere are you? (6.13.21)"Where are you?" Would you be afraid if God asked you that question? Listen to Pastor Rieke's sermon about the first time God asked that question to Adam and Eve. Pastor Rieke reminds us how our sinful nature wants to hide from God, but because of God's promise, we no longer need to be afraid. Sermon is based on Genesis 3:8-15.
2021-06-1321 minPalos Lutheran ChurchFinding Rest Among God's People (6.6.21)We all know the value of a good night's rest. But what about a good spiritual rest? In some of Moses' final words to the Israelites, he reminds them of the rest they have as they gather among God's people around his Word. That same rest is ours when we come to worship. This sermon is taken from Deuteronomy 5:12-15.
2021-06-0622 minPalos Lutheran ChurchA Holy God Is Far & Near (5.30.21)How many times do we see the Trinity in our worship services? It's quite frequently. The reason for that is important. The better we know God, the better we can share God. One of God's characteristics that is clear throughout the Bible is his holiness. Listen to Pastor Rieke share what God's holiness means for us. This sermon is taken from Isaiah 6:1-8.
2021-05-3021 minPalos Lutheran ChurchEzekiel's trip through death valley (5.23.21)On the day we celebrate Pentecost, we turn to the book of Ezekiel to see what Pentecost was all about - bringing life from death. Ezekiel's trip through a valley of dry bones is a good reminder of what we all are by nature, and what God can do - bring to life what was dead. Sermon is taken from Ezekiel 37:1-14.
2021-05-2324 minPalos Lutheran ChurchUnfathomable Power (5.16.21)When was the last time you walked into church and thought: "Wow, I'm in a powerful place, with powerful people, doing powerful things?" But that's exactly what the church is - because of Jesus & his ascension. Listen to Pastor Rieke talk about the unfathomable power of Jesus, and as a result also of his church.
2021-05-1720 minPalos Lutheran ChurchAll You Need Is Love (5.9.21)There are many definitions of love in this world. There are many different places people look for love. But there is only one genuine love. John tells us "God Is Love." Listen to Pastor Rieke explain what it means to know all you need is love. Sermon is taken from 1 John 4.13-21.
2021-05-1021 minPalos Lutheran ChurchGod is Greater (5.2.21)We continue our series in 1 John and are reminded that God is greater. God is greater than our sins, than our problems, than our worries, than our feelings. God is greater than all of these, because his love is greater. If you have been blessed by this ministry, please consider giving an offering through our website: paloslutheran.org/online-giving.
2021-05-0318 minPalos Lutheran ChurchGod Celebrates You! (4.25.21)The 4th Sunday of Easter is typically called Good Shepherd Sunday, where we remember not only our need for a Good Shepherd, but also how Jesus fulfills that need. Today, Pastor Terry Schultz fills in for Pastor Rieke and reminds us of the Good Shepherd's love with the retelling of the Parable of the Prodigal (or Lost) Son.
2021-04-2628 minPalos Lutheran ChurchWhat is complete joy? (4.18.21)This weekend is a little bit different than most, after Pastor Rieke tested positive for Covid-19. But he was feeling well enough to record a sermon from 1 John 1:1-2:2 about what it means to have complete joy.
2021-04-1917 minPalos Lutheran ChurchWhat does victory look like? (4.11.21)It’s been said the distance between your head and your heart is the longest distance you can travel. It’s the difference between knowing something and believing something. It’s the difference between heaven and hell. The demons know there is a God and shudder.This Easter season, by the grace of God, we will make that longest journey from what we know in our heads, to what we believe in our hearts. To not only know what the Bible says, but to know by experience what the Bible says is true. So That You May Know…t...
2021-04-1119 minPalos Lutheran ChurchDid God Raise His Son (4.4.21 - Easter)Did God raise Jesus from the dead? It's the all important question that we answer on Easter. Thanks be to God that he did raise Jesus from the dead. This is not only good for Jesus, but good for us as well, as we have God's promise that we will rise from the dead too. He is Risen! He is Risen Indeed! Alleluia!
2021-04-0420 minPalos Lutheran ChurchNail-Pierced Hands (4.2.21)What about this day makes it be called "good?" It was our Savior taking our place under God's wrath. In our Good Friday service, we are reminded of Jesus' nail-pierced hands, and his words from the cross.
2021-04-0313 minPalos Lutheran ChurchHands of Humility (4.1.21)On Maundy Thursday, we remember when Jesus instituted the Lord's Supper. But before he did that, he gave his disciples a new command. The command to love in the way he loved them. He demonstrated this with hands of humility when he washed his disciples' feet. This sermon is taken from John 13.
2021-04-0319 minPalos Lutheran ChurchA King On His Own Terms (3.28.21)On Palm Sunday, Jesus rode into Jerusalem on the back of a donkey. He did this despite of the religious leader's warrant for his arrest. He did it despite his disciples' concern for his safety. He came to Jerusalem on his own terms. Because his own terms were the only terms that could remove the punishment of sin, and the condemnation of death. Sermon is taken from Mark 11:1-10.
2021-03-2816 minPalos Lutheran ChurchIt's OK to be troubled (3.21.21)Did you know that Jesus was troubled? As Jesus was steeling himself for everything that was to come during Holy Week, he was troubled. But he didn't let this trouble overwhelm him, instead he turned to God. He remembered his purpose - us. Because of this, we know it's OK to be troubled, but it's not OK to worry. God loves us, and walks with us through our troubles.
2021-03-2120 minPalos Lutheran ChurchWhat a snake can teach us (3.14.21)What can a snake teach us about suffering and salvation. This is what Jesus talked to a Pharisee named Nicodemus. This is the background of the most famous verse of the Bible (John 3:16). Sermon is taken from John 3:14-21.
2021-03-1418 minPalos Lutheran ChurchJesus Gives Us A Clear Sign (3.7.21)In our Lenten service today, we see a clear distinction between God's Law and God's gospel. God's law has the power to change actions, but not hearts. It's only God's gospel that can change hearts. God's law makes us aware of our sins, God's gospel makes us aware of God's forgiveness.
2021-03-0717 minPalos Lutheran ChurchCrosses Incorporated (2.28.21)The season of Lent is a focus on the sufferings of Jesus. Jesus suffered on the cross to save us. Today, we also focus on the suffering that Jesus calls for Christians to go through as a result of being a Christian. Hear Pastor Rieke explain what it means to be part of Crosses Incorporated. The sermon message is based on Mark 8:31-38.
2021-02-2820 minPalos Lutheran ChurchHands of Betrayal - Judas (2.24.21)When we consider Jesus and the people around him in his Passion, we can’t help but think of their hands – the hands that beat their breast, accepted money for betrayal, petulantly swung swords, pointed in accusation, beat and disavowed, praise, washed, were pierced, and offered eternal life. In short, we can’t help but think about how we sinners have had the same sinful hands of those who surrounded Jesus in his Passion, and how Jesus our Savior has touched us with his hands of grace.
2021-02-2621 minPalos Lutheran ChurchGod Overcomes All Our Obstacles (2.21.21)For over 1,000 years, Christians have been hearing about the temptations of Jesus in the wilderness on the first Sunday in Lent. This is one way that God suffers with and for us. He makes our temptations, his temptations, and he makes his victory, our victory. Sermon text is Mark 1:12-15
2021-02-2119 minPalos Lutheran ChurchHands of Repentance (2.17.21)When we consider Jesus and the people around him in his Passion, we can’t help but think of their hands – the hands that beat their breast, accepted money for betrayal, petulantly swung swords, pointed in accusation, beat and disavowed, praise, washed, were pierced, and offered eternal life. In short, we can’t help but think about how we sinners have had the same sinful hands of those who surrounded Jesus in his Passion, and how Jesus our Savior has touched us with his hands of grace.
2021-02-1818 minPalos Lutheran ChurchSee Jesus Through The Cloud (2.14.21)February 14, 2021 is not only Valentine's Day, but it is also Transfiguration Sunday. It was on this day that we remember when Jesus was Transfigured (or changed) before the eyes of the disciples. It was an amazing sight that we see how eager Christ is to save us, and how eager he is for us to follow him. Sermon message is from Mark 9:2-9
2021-02-1518 minPalos Lutheran ChurchJesus came as a personal Savior (2.7.21)Jesus is not just the Savior of the world, he is my Savior personally. Jesus shows this in how he cares for people individually. Sometimes I may not always understand why he allows certain things to happen in my life, but I can trust him that he is ultimately caring about my spiritual health. Sermon message is taken from Mark 1:29-39.
2021-02-0715 minPalos Lutheran ChurchWhy follow...just another message? (1.31.21)We live in a world that is craving for attention. Who do we follow and why? Why should we follow Jesus, especially if it's a message that's like any other message? Listen to Pastor Rieke share how Jesus and his message are not like any other message, and he IS worth following. This message is taken from Mark 1:21-28.
2021-02-0117 minPalos Lutheran ChurchPastor Bergemann Guest Preaching (1.24.21)Pastor Bergemann from Good Shepherd in Downer's Grove shares a message from God's Word this morning (John 1:43-51)
2021-01-2418 minPalos Lutheran ChurchGod's call that overcomes obstacles (1.17.21)When Jesus called his first disciples, he didn't call the best and the brightest students. But that was done purposely. God would use those disciples, warts and all, to spread the gospel. Jesus has called us too, warts and all, to follow him, not just one day a week, but throughout our lives. The sermon is taken from Mark 1:14-20.
2021-01-1721 minPalos Lutheran ChurchWhen Heaven Opens... (1.10.21)What is important? People answer that question any number of ways. There are some things that are important to individuals, and there are some things that are important regardless of what people think. Sometimes the only way we know something is important is by being told it is important. Listen to Pastor Rieke explain why Jesus' baptism is important, even though it happened 2,000 years ago. This sermon was preached on January 10, 2021 at Palos Lutheran Church.
2021-01-1018 minPalos Lutheran ChurchWorship Like The Wise Men (1.3.21)How strange would it sound to say, "Jesus is only the American Savior." The festival of Epiphany (officially on January 6), reminds us how strange that sounds. Jesus is not just the Savior of a particular race, nation or people group. He's the Savior of the World. This is revealed in the Wise Men coming to worship Jesus.
2021-01-0320 minPalos Lutheran ChurchGod Revealed His Salvation To Us (12.27.20)There were two miracles that happened with Christmas. First - God became man to be our Savior, Second - God revealed this miracle to us so we could live with him as lord over our life. This is what makes our God different than worthless idols.
2020-12-2717 minPalos Lutheran ChurchChristmas - The Greatest Gift (12.25.20)2020 might be seen by many as a disappointment. But when we look in the manger, we don't need to be disappointed. Because in the manger, God has given us not just a baby - but his own Son. He gave up his Son for you! Listen to Pastor Rieke describe why this is the greatest gift. This sermon is based on Romans 8:32.
2020-12-2513 min
Palos Lutheran ChurchTravel Light - Letting Go of Control (12.20.20)How much do you like being in control? Whether it's controlling your kids, controlling the vehicle you drive, or controlling the image you display to the world, we quickly realize that we can't control everything. Listen to Pastor Rieke explain why we need to let go of control, and why we can trust God to be in control. This message is taken from Proverbs 3:5-6.
2020-12-2118 min
Palos Lutheran ChurchTravel Light - Letting Go of Bitterness (12.13.20)We all know what it's like to work, hang out, or be family to a bitter person. A person that constantly gripes and complains about everything. But this service is not for them. It's for you. Because bitterness is a sin that is so difficult to recognize in ourselves. Listen to Pastor Rieke explain why we have no reason to be bitter.
2020-12-1315 min
Palos Lutheran ChurchTravel Light - Letting Go of Distractions (12.6.20)It's easy to become distracted, especially at this time of year. Sometimes we even welcome these distractions. But what would happen if you could let go of your distractions? Why would you want to let go of your distractions? Hear Pastor Rieke share why it's important to let go of your distractions in this sermon from Proverbs 4:25-27 preached on December 6, 2020.
2020-12-0720 min
Palos Lutheran ChurchTravel Light - Letting Go of Stuff (11.29.2020)Do you have too much stuff? Whether it be physical, emotional, or even spiritual, Pastor Rieke reminds us to practice "one handful living." Better is one hand with tranquility, than two hands with turmoil (Ecclesiastes 4:6). This is the first in our series of Traveling Light, as we prepare for Christmas.
2020-11-2916 min
Shepherd of the Hills RSS News ServiceJanuary 22, 2012 Mission FestivalPastor Colin Rieke came as a guest presenter from his start up church in Vail, AZ. The text is Genesis 3:15, and the theme is, "Mission work begins with a mission."
2012-01-2300 min