On the third day, says St. John, there was a wedding at Cana in Galilee. On the third day…Jesus rose from the dead. The story of Jesus’ first sign of turning water into wine when the wedding reception was about to be spoiled teaches us that Jesus came to restore joy and gladness to us. The world, the evil, our sinful flesh all weigh us down and seem often to sap the joy and gladness from us. Jesus has got this. His first sign is at a wedding to also remind us that His church is His holy, precious bride, redeemed and cleansed with His blood. That’s this week as we celebrate the Second Sunday after the Epiphany.

I’m sure most of you have heard of the terrible accident at the new Starbucks across the street from the church. Please keep those injured in your prayers and remember to give thanks for our fire fighters, police officers, and others who respond in situations like that.

ZAP also needs your help to provide DESSERTS for the dinner. If you can make, bake, buy, or whip up a batch of something sweet for a dinner dessert, please bring it NEXT SUNDAY MORNING for the dinner. Thanks for your help!

Don’t forget THIS WEEKEND is Lutheran Women in Mission Mite Collection. What a great way to get rid of your loose change. It really adds up and the Lutheran Women In Mission put that money to great use on mission projects locally, nationally, and even around the world!

Maybe some new quilters!

The Lord tells us over and over that His kingdom is like a banquet, a wedding reception…a party! His salvation is something to celebrate forever in the life everlasting. I guess you could say that every time He gathers us around His Body and Blood, it’s like a rehearsal dinner for that eternal celebration!

So we’ll see you in the Divine Service!

In Christ,
Pastor Buetow

Will Kokoruz earned his Eagle Scout Rank!