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Moms of small children—get together with other moms of small children. Enjoy food and fellowship and learn something from amazing presenters. Please let us know prior to coming if you need childcare so the nursery may be properly staffed.
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Thank you for worshiping with us today!
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What does the future hold? Unless you are Captain Oblivious, you must acknowledge the fact the world we live in today is pressurized to a degree we have not seen in many decades. I do not remember a time when every nation, every culture, every individual has been so affected by a single factor. Even if you are not in the crosshairs of the pandemic, likely you are feeling the secondary effect. So, it is easy to ask, “What does the future hold?” But it is the wrong question. The right question is, “Who holds the future?” I have, for some time, encouraged people to look for the heroes in times of crisis. Keeping our eye on the good happening around us keeps our hearts from being discouraged. There is a greater good at work in the world than the heroic action of many. This higher work is the work of God. God is not silenced nor diminished in the grasp of modernity. Not for a moment. Here are some helpful reminders of who is still in charge.
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Co-Lead Pastor
Learn About Our Company
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One of the many ways we show hospitality is through our Sunday morning coffee servers. Often the people serving comment on how much they enjoy this ministry—and it is so easy! The serving counter is all prepared; the only duties are to replenish the supplies as needed and greet people in a friendly, welcoming manner.
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Co-Lead Pastor
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Anyone can help you with the wedding; we want to stick around for the marriage. That is why FLC requires pre-marital work before the “I do’s” are said. We contract with a local ministry called “Love, Succeed, Commit.” They offer online and in-person options and a cost involved.
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Even though we were unable to gather in person, we have been blessed with continuing worship together virtually. Every Sunday and Wednesday, services have been broadcast from our website and Facebook page. The Holy Spirit is not confined to a building . . .
Learn About Our Company
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The loss of a loved one is a difficult time, and we hope to comfort those grieve by serving a lunch or dessert after a funeral. We have three groups of funeral servers. Each group serves one month out of each quarter of a year. Bars and cakes are donated by the people in each group. All other food is purchased.
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The quilters are a faithful group of women who comes together every week to create beautiful quilts that are given away to Lutheran World Relief, FLC mission trips, or local charities. Beginners and experts welcome!
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Lay Pastor Director of Mission and Outreach
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This group of caring women crochet or knit prayer shawls which are given to people in need of a special touch of love. They also create infant baptismal shawls that are given to every child baptized at First Lutheran.
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There are two traditional worship services in the sanctuary each Sunday morning. Word and sacrament are at the heart of all of our worships and the sanctuary service celebrates with music that is mostly traditional in form.    The liturgy comes from the Lutheran Book of Worship, but the order of service and hymns are all included in the bulletin, which makes it easy to follow the service. Four scripture readings and a sermon form the basis of the Word each week. Holy Communion is offered at all services on the first Sunday of each month, and after each service in the chapel on the other Sundays of the month.   The organ is the primary musical instrument in the sanctuary, while the piano is used to accompany some of the choir anthems plus vocalists and instrumentalists. Musical offerings include the Cathedral Choir, Heavenly Bells, FLC Orchestra, Men's Choir, Women's Choir, and Children's Choir. Time: Sundays at 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.
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Help us fill 100+ School Kits for Lutheran World Relief by shopping in July and August from this supply list...
FAQ
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Health Ministry is a standing committee whose mission is to help all to experience God's grace, love, and healing by addressing their spiritual, physical, emotional, and mental health. This committee works closely with the Parish Nurse.
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BeFrienders are volunteer lay ministers who provide pastoral care to people in difficult and transitional situations, such as illness, loneliness, or loss of a loved one. They embody the caring presence of God and serve as a living reminder of his love. If you have a heart for others and would like to be a caring presence for a hurting person, we invite you to find out more.
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The Mission Soup team offers up many delicious varieties of homemade soup with proceeds benefiting local and global missions. You can help their efforts by purchasing a bowl of soup to eat here or take home, or you can volunteer to make soup.
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Search for recent FLC Worship Bulletin PDFs
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We believe that worship begins and ends in a genuine relationship with Jesus. We are a community dedicated to Christ’s saving grace, constant repentance, baptism as a symbol and public profession of Christ’s work, the indwelling & empowering of the Holy Spirit. We believe in faith and works as the evidence of genuine salvation.
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Men
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Creative Arts Director
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Wednesday Fellowship has been a hallmark FLC Senior Ministry for nearly 50 years. Every Wednesday, 40 to 60 seniors gather for devotions and hymns, led by a member of the pastoral team and followed by a delicious luncheon served by FLC volunteers. Many also come early to enjoy a 30-minute organ recital by Michael Olson, Minister of Music. Several stop by the parish nurse office to have their blood pressure checked and/or health-related questions addressed.
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Michael Olson is well known for his magnificent talent on the organ. Everyone is welcome to hear him play every Wednesday at 12:45 p.m. in the Sanctuary. These recitals provide an opportunity for you to unwind, relax and reflect. While most of the recitals are played on the church’s pipe organ, occasionally a piano recital is presented and guest musicians are invited to share their talents. After the recital you are invited to attend Wednesday Fellowship Worship in the chapel at 1:30 p.m. with lunch and fellowship following in Celebration Hall.
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Connections Director
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Wrestling is seemingly part of the air that we breathe. We wrestle with important decisions. We wrestle with what we want to do with our one, holy, precious life...
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Financial Manager
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I used to get up and go for an early-morning walk about 5:15 a.m. every morning. During the past few weeks, I now go walking right after breakfast...
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I recently discovered a wonderful South African artist named Maria Magdalena Oosthuizen. One website explains her style and motivation: “She paints figurative portraits emanating innocence and hope that . . .
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The captain of the ship looked into the dark night and saw faint lights in the distance. Thinking it was a ship with whom they would soon collide, the captain had his signalman send a message, “Alter your course 10 degrees south.” . . .
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Joyful Noise is a great way for kids to lend their passion of singing to worship. The group leads singing in worship occasionally and with other FLC musical groups. No audition is needed. Boys and girls welcome.
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Administrative Assistant/Wedding Coordinator
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I received a book from a dear friend recently and it has God's fingerprints all over it. God knew just what I was needing and he . . .
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Head of Maintenance
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Time. Seems like most of us have had more time of late due to the Covid Crisis. Some have gone crazy with boredom. Others, like me have appreciated the extra time to take care of stuff, work on home projects, cleaning, organizing, and tossing. I have used my time for a few extra weekend camping adventures, turkey hunting, looking for arrowheads and investing lots of time in my many handicraft hobbies. Ministry is mostly a head game . . .
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The choral group for women, under the direction of Kathy Ferreira, is for those who love to sing and praise the Lord. Usually sing once a month. No auditions required.
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Companion to FLOCK (First Lutheran Online Community for Kids), our FLOCK Magazine is published every month.
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Companion to FLOCK Online, read November's issue of FLOCK Magazine, a monthly Kids at First publication!
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What does the future hold? Unless you are Captain Oblivious, you must acknowledge the fact the world we live in today is pressurized to a degree we have not seen in many decades. I do not remember a time when every nation, every culture, every individual has been so affected by a single factor. Even in you are not in the cross-hairs of the pandemic, likely you are feeling the secondary effect. So, it is easy to ask, “What does the future hold?” But it is the wrong question. The right question is, “Who holds the future?” I have, for some time, encouraged people to look for the heroes in times of crisis. Keeping our eye on the good happening around us keeps our hearts from being discouraged. There is a greater good at work in the world than the heroic action of many. This higher work is the work of God. God is not silenced nor diminished in the grasp of modernity. Not for a moment. Here are some helpful reminders of who is STILL in charge.
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by Pastor Corey Bjertness
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This group of guys who love to sing are directed by David Ferreira. They sing at the traditional worship in the Sanctuary several times during the year (usually once a month) and especially on Mother’s Day. No auditions required.
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The Heavenly Bells Handbell Choir, under the direction of Michael Olson, rehearses once a week. The group plays for the two Sanctuary worship services approximately once a month during the school year.
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Life is quite a wild ride. Sometimes we are flying high having a great time, other times at the bottom, and at some points in life we are just plain terrified. There are times we have to make a decision . . .
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You're invited to Live, Love, & Lead like Jesus on Broadway, our Fall Sermon Series: September 13 - November 22, 2020
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Companion to FLOCK Online, read the December issue of FLOCK Magazine, a monthly Kids at First publication!
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January 2021 gallery of pages from FLOCK Magazine
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Fall 2020 Quarterly Newsletter Article
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Whether you know how to knit and crochet or would like to learn, you are welcome to join other women in a time of fellowship and creativity. Bring a pair of straight or circular needles, size 6-8, or a crochet hook of your choice, and some yarn.
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This wonderful music group is comprised of string players of various ages and experience levels. Whenever they play, they enhance worship by sharing their gifts.
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For over two and a half months, churches everywhere have been "doing worship" in very new and creative manners. It has been wonderful to be a part of that process here at First Lutheran Church. I remember very well Sunday morning, March 22. On that particular Sunday morning . . .
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Cathedral Choir and Men's Chorus Director
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Crusader Choir | Women's Choir
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First Lutheran Online Community for Kids - FLOCK Online for Kids at First
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First Lutheran Church celebrates the angelic voices of children with the Crusader’s Choir! Singing shapes a child's spiritual life and they learn scripture because they sing it. No audition required.
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This striking painting depicts the story of Jacob wrestling with a mysterious stranger in Genesis 32. The stars in the background look down upon Jacob and the stranger, whose identity is . . .
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Fall Quarterly Newsletter Article
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First Lutheran Online Community for Kids - Magazine issue for February 2021
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First Lutheran Online Community for Kids - Magazine for March 2021
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First in Mission: Friday Lunches - 2nd and 4th Friday of each month, 8-11 a.m. in FLC's Great Hall beginning September, 2021
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I once heard a group fitness instructor say “You’re here, you’ve showed up. Don’t sell yourself short now.” The idea is simple: if you’ve already committed the time to be here and present, then why not make the most of it? Don’t check out . . .
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Orchestra Director
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Martin Luther said when you sang, you prayed twice. If you have a passion for praising God with singing, you are welcome to join the Cathedral Choir. No audition required.
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Faith Community Nurse
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Peace and understanding. These two words have gone through my mind constantly for the last couple weeks. I have never experienced a week like I have this last week ever before in my life. I have been at times hopelessly confused, upset, angry . . .
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ABOUT US Page - Nokomis Childcare Center
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This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger. LUKE 2:12
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"This will be a sign to you..." Review First Lutheran's opportunities to come together for Christmas in 2020!
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First Lutheran Online Community for Kids - Magazine for April 2021
Coming Soon!
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We remember.
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This photo popped up on my Facebook page Saturday morning. It was taken by Jon Forness, a gifted and skilled photographer friend. It was reminding me that it was the 10-year anniversary of when my good friend Rory Eidsness and I ran the Fargo Marathon together in May of 2010. . . .
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These last few months have been anything but normal, and we as a staff have missed seeing you face-to-face! However, we are grateful that worship and ministry have continued virtually and for the reminder the church is not limited to the walls of a building. . . .
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Mission Trip to Slovakia in 2022
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Luther Crest Day Camps - summer 2022
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PROGRAMS at Nokomis Childcare Center
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Guest Experience
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Holy Week and Easter 2021
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Contact Us @ Nokomis Childcare
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Graphic Designer
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Volunteer in 300+ opportunities around the community!
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There are two guys walking along a road that leads to a village . . .
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Preacher - Pastor Stephanie Tollefson Scripture - Exodus 33:11-23
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Preacher - Pastor Stephanie Tollefson Scripture - Exodus 33:11-23
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My Grandpa Arlo passed away on April 15, 2017. He was one of my favorite people in the world. No matter how hard life got, and it did get hard, he always had a positive attitude and . . .
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7th - 12th grade
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Holy Week Palm Sunday 2021
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Ecuador Mission Trip 2023 - Women’s Spiritual Retreat - Out of the Ordinary: Receiving God’s Invitation in the Everyday
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“Now that’s some high-quality H2O!”- Robert (The Water Boy) Boucher Jr.
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Summer Events & Book Study Series - 2022
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Nov 2023
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Before we talk about persons of sincerity, we should discuss sincerity itself. Here are several definitions . . .
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Sunday Sanctuary Worship June 14, 2020 | Genesis 32:22-32 Message - Pastor Corey Bjertness Assisting Pastor - Pastor Laurie Neill
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Sunday Celebration Worship June 14, 2020 | Genesis 32:22-32 Message - Pastor Corey Bjertness Assisting Pastor - Pastor Laurie Neill
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This Sunday is Pentecost, when the church celebrates the coming of the Holy Spirit. It occurs 50 days after Easter, and the Greek name for 50 is “Pentecost.” The story as told in Acts 2:1-21 is that all the disciples were together when there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind . . .
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Advent and Christmas 2021 - Prepare Him Room
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November with FLC
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'Tis the season!
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Sanctuary Worship | June 21, 2020 Gospel - John 14:1-14 Message - Pastor Laurie Neill
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“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy." What does this mean? We should fear and love God so that . . .
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Job positions open and available at First Lutheran Church - Fargo
Sunday/Wednesday KidCheck System 2023
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Make the Season Bright | 2021 Holiday Concert
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Pray. Pay. Pack.
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Sunday Celebration Worship June 21, 2020 | John 14:1-14 Message - Pastor Laurie Neill
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I woke up this morning with these words, “For such a time as this.” I thought hmmm is this what the Holy Spirit is giving to me for this week’s devotion? Heaven knows I need something. I can’t do this on my own. All morning I prayed and listened to . . .
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Quietly I cast off from shore and began paddling across the lake. My homebuilt 15' solo cedar-strip canoe silently parted the waters as I aimed the bow towards a narrow channel that led to another corner of the lake. A barred owl called out from the opposite shoreline. Odd I thought for mid-day, but . . .
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Sanctuary Worship | June 28, 2020 Gospel - Romans 12:9-21 Message - Pastor Marty Tollefson
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Executive Director, Nokomis Child Care
Register your pre-k - 5th graders to join Hope Lutheran for their summer VBX experience!
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FMSC 2024
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Early registration is open!
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April 2024
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Sunday Celebration Worship Scripture - Romans 12:9-21 Message - Pastor Marty Tollefson
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Chief Operations Officer
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Veteran's Day 2021 - Patriotic Concert
Blessed to be a blessing
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Children, Youth, & Family Coordinator
Legends of Faith: Fall 2022
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September 2023
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Sunday Celebration Worship Scripture - Joshua 23 Message - Pastor Corey Bjertness
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Lord, today we remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom that we enjoy every day. They each have . . .
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Sanctuary Worship (Live Stream) | July 12, 2020 Rollie Johnson John 15:1-17
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Many of you could recite this blessing almost word for word from the book of Numbers . . .
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Because of Bethlehem
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You’re invited to join us for a Retirement Celebration for Pr. Corey & the Bjertness Family
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Youth Director
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Watch the show The Chosen to discuss and connect with a large group!
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Sunday Celebration Worship | July 12, 2020 Scripture - John 15:1-17 Message - Rollie Johnson
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This painting is done in the style of art called Cubism. You are probably most familiar with Picasso, who pioneered the genre. It was considered to be among the most influential art movements of . . .
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Join us for worship on this sacred, holy service on February 22.
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What's happening at First Lutheran in 2022? Events and opportunities in January and February to look forward to.
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Sign up or show up!
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I love gardening. There is something special about working with seeds and ground and—after a lot of hard work . . .
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Sanctuary Sunday Worship | July 19, 2020 Scripture - Luke 10:25-37 Message - Pastor Laurie Neill
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Meet Dr. Enrique Pinto, my 92-year-old father-in-law who now lives alone in the bustling mega-city of Guadalajara, Mexico. Alone, yet surrounded by some seven million other souls . . .
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Celebration Worship Scripture - Luke 10:25-37 Message - Pastor Laurie Neill
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Together, we will worship and turn our eyes to Christ – the face of Easter.
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Sunday, February 27, 3-5 p.m.
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Many people first became aware of Westboro Baptist Church in the early 1990s, when the church began picketing in protest of what they saw as the ills of an ungodly world. Megan was 5 years old when it began . . .
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Celebration Sunday Worship July 26, 2020 Scripture - Leviticus 13:1-6, Matthew 8:1-4 Message - Pastor Marty Tollefson
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Sanctuary Sunday Worship | Scripture - Leviticus 13:1-6, Matthew 8:1-4 | Message - Pastor Marty Tollefson | Assisting Pastor - Pastor Laurie Neill | Minister of Music - Michael Olson
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Marine artist Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky creates mesmerizing waves and seascapes and has over 6,000 painting devoted to the subject of oceans. An article . . .
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He is Risen!
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A choral and orchestral performance of Christ’s Passion Story
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Celebration Sunday Worship; Gospel - Mark 7:1-23; Message - Pastor Corey Bjertness
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Since today is the first day of summer at 4:44 PM, I think it's high time to talk about God's majesty. Indeed, we've already had some very hot, humid weather . . .
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Happy Father’s Day to all of the fathers and father figures out there! Today we celebrate you and the care and love you give to . . .
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Sanctuary Sunday Worship; Gospel - Mark 7:1-23; Message - Pastor Corey Bjertness
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Contemporary Worship Space
Celebrate the National Day of Norway and Scandinavian Heritage with delicious foods of the region.
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Traditional Worship Space
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Celebration Sunday Worship | August 9, 2020 Gospel - Mark 7:1-23 Message - Pastor Marty Tollefson Assisting Pastor - Pastor Laurie Neill Worship Leader - Rollie Johnson Celebration worship bulletin, August 9: https://www.flcfargo.org/application/files/9915/9673/7084/August_9_2020_Celebration_Worship_Bulletin.pdf
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A gorgeous spring day had been birthed for us to enjoy. After a cozy, warming coffee around our morning campfire and downing some delicious and nutritious donuts, it was time for . . .
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In life there is waiting. With the goings on in our world, country, and community it seems like there has been more waiting as of late. What are we waiting for? . . .
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Sanctuary Sunday Bulletin: https://www.flcfargo.org/application/files/6815/9673/7084/August_9_2020_Sanctuary_Worship_Bulletin.pdf
Come and Celebrate That We Are Better Together!
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This April and May, join us for the worship series: Expand Me.
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Weekly concerts at FLC on the corner of Broadway and 6th St downtown Fargo!
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"But First..." | As the time approached for him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem. As they were walking along the road . . .
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August 16, 2020 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship
God did not mean for you to go through loss alone.
Winter storm causes cancellations on this Wednesday, March 1.
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August 16, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship Scripture - Psalm 139:7-10, 1 Kings 19:1-9 Pastor Laurie Neill
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Some of you may have heard this acronym before concerning the word GRACE. . .
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One of the attractions in New York City is a bronze statue called, “Fearless Girl,” sculpted by Kristen Visbal. She is a 50-inch high ponytailed powerhouse with attitude, facing down the famous . . .
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August 23, 2020 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship Scripture: Acts 10:23-48 Rollie J
Seeking Older, Wiser Lutherans for nurturing children at Nokomis Child Care
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2023 Fall Music
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Fall Sermon Series
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August 23, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship Scripture - Acts 10:23-48 Message - Rollie Johnson
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I was reading Jeremiah 20:7-1 last week and it reminded me that words hurt. Jeremiah says . . .
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Stay up-to-date this Holy Week as we experience more snow in the Fargo-Moorhead area.
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See what's happening this year
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I don't want you just to sit down at the table. I don't want you just to eat, and be content. I want you to walk out into . . .
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August 30, 2020 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship Revelation 21:1-5; 22:1-5 Pr. Stephanie Tollefson
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The thought came to me one evening awhile back. I wanted to bless and affirm my middle daughter . . .
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August 30, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship Scripture - Revelations 21:1-5; 22:1-5 Message - Pastor Stephanie Tollefson
Visit the Holy Land and optional Jordan extension with Sunlight Tours and FLC in February 2024!
Reformation Sunday
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How has God made a way for you?
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The 2023 rebrand of First Lutheran - Fargo!
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I remember my first day at Agassiz middle school. I was entering the sixth grade, leaving a small school of maybe 40 children in a grade, and entering a large school with almost 700 children in a grade, and there were . . .
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September 6, 2020 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship Matthew 18:15-20 Pr. Corey Bjertness
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September 6, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship Scripture - Matthew 18:15-20 Message - Pastor Corey Bjertness
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I heard a story once about a woman whose life took an unfortunate turn. She fell on hard times, got a divorce, lost her family, and sank into a deep depression. She was in desperate . . .
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Sept. 6, 2023
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He Chose the Nails
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fit strong fall 2023
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“What in the world?” That is what I was thinking when I ran across this artist. These are just a few paintings of . . .
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Scripture - Exodus 16:2-3; Numbers 13:1-2, 17-20, 25-33 Message - Pastor Marty Tollefson
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Reread the text from 2 Corinthians for today and you will see that every one of God's promises is a "Yes" which is very encouraging as we . . .
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Scripture: Mark 1:1-14 Preacher: Pastor Stephanie Tollefson
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Connect with others!
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A gripping Holy Week performance.
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Fellas, Food, Fun, Fire, Fellowship, Freedom, Frisbees, Football, and Faith!
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Join us for a week of Easter preparation!
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I’m taking a seminary course on American theology in the 21st century and we are reading the book, “The Long Loneliness” by Dorothy Day. Just the title “The Long Loneliness” speaks volumes . . .
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Last week, we celebrated our daughter’s birthday. Sarah is now nine years old! She is smart, witty, and just a joy to be around. A couple of weeks ago . . .
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Join us for a week of worship, discussion, and celebration of global ministry through FLC.
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$5
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We have all experienced grief and loss in our lives. It is difficult to say goodbye, but for us there is hope. Over the most recent years I have been...
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Sign ups OPEN!
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I don’t know about you, but I am exhausted. COVID-19 closed much of our country four months ago and, since then...
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This lovely painting of two friends reading together comes from the French impressionist, Pierre Auguste Renoir. His first foray into art was creating designs on...
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In light of everything going on these days and looking forward to a less-than-certain future, we need all the strength we can muster. I gain much strength from reading....
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Last week a classmate of mine shared a video with us as a way to center our day titled, “How Can I Keep from Singing?" It is a NYC virtual choir and orchestra. I was very moved...
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Someone recently asked, “Has this pandemic been a time for pruning?” Great question! Pruning is a process...
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On recent vacation to Portugal and Spain, we encountered many...
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The first time I saw the above image was at Castaway Camp a few years ago with a bunch of middle schoolers we took to the Eastern North Dakota Synod gathering. We were listening to an incredible speaker ...
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When I was at an art retreat in Venice last summer (seems like years ago!), I found myself with a couple of unscheduled hours, so I made my way to a museum to do one of my favorite activities...
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Two Things to Share Today...As I mentioned a few weeks ago, I was doing some cleaning at home. Along the way, I found some "treasures" ...
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It is so hard to lose the ones we love. We all say that they are in a better place, they are in heaven. But I also know that it is easy for doubt to creep in. How do we trust in this place that we can’t see ...
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A couple of weeks ago, Hannah and I watched a movie entitled I Still Believe which was just released this past March. It is a true story about ...
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Do you feel broken? Do you feel beyond repair and restoration? Has the weight of life’s struggles crushed your spirit?
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We are blessed to have a God who is crazy in love with us. He created us out of love: See what great love God has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! 1 John 3:1 ...
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To my dearest children, I am writing to you today to offer you a permission slip. Just like the one you might get...
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Summer—the time of year for flowers! Everyday I linger among my peonies, marigolds, and geraniums, thanking God for their beauty...
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Today I'm going to use the second scripture text from the Daily Texts in a most interesting manner: I used to hunger and thirst, particularly hunger...
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Many times, in my life I have prayed so hard for something to happen and have had my prayers go seemingly unanswered. Places I thought our family was going to move to over the years and then things falling apart...
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Big Coulee Lutheran Church stands a mile away from where I grew up. It closed about forty-two years ago, primarily, because it ran out of people. It continues to be a part of my spiritual landscape. With that said, the church that once gathered in that building no longer exists...
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On a Saturday a few weeks ago, Kari and I made a promise. We made several promises on behalf of our beautiful son...
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Somehow, when I read this passage from Matthew’s gospel, I can’t help but think about Jed Clampett and the “Beverly Hillbillies.” Now, if you have never seen the show...
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Claude Vignon’s painting, “The Lament of St. Peter,” is a beautiful example of how an artist can use lights and shadows to create a sense of...
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As I begin today's devotional message, I need to wish Happy Anniversary to two couples...
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Above is a picture of my oldest daughter’s birthday party. Her younger sister had just blown out her candles...
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Since I was a little boy, I have always had a fascination with water. My mother tells the story of when I was ten...
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Slamming the tailgate of my big Dodge pickup shut, I locked the topper door. After an insanely wild, bucking-bronco-like drive in on some ...
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This week during our staff meeting we did a check in with each other to see how we are doing. I'm not going to share my comments because words came out that are not devotional appropriate. However, they were brutally honest and true...
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This Gospel text is an interesting one. Jesus is trying to get some “alone time” but is already so popular that he just can’t get away!...
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Let’s have a little fun. When Italian pastry chef Matteo Stucchi makes his culinary creations, you can bet ...
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Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. This verse from Hebrews 11:1 could ...
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I recently was at a Bible study by Priscilla Shirer called Discerning the Voice of God. At the end of the study she told a story...
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Several years ago, I was traveling back from Camp Grafton and decided to visit the graves of my mom and dad, Bonnie and Gordon Mellum...
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Brilliant sunshine poured generously over the landscape. Its warmth and positive cheer were a welcome relief from the...
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Yesterday as I was walking down Broadway going to grab lunch, I overheard a boy talking to his dad, well more complaining to his dad, about having to do chores...
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Jesus has been off praying on his own and comes to his disciples, walking on top of the water...
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When I think of the poor, I think of the first beatitude in Matthew 5, verse 3...
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A few weeks ago, at Norman Lutheran Church while getting ready for service our youngest daughter Claire was pretending that she was the pastor. She was up in the pulpit...
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If Abraham is considered the Father of all nations, then Jacob ought to be considered the Father of all swindlers. Even the name Jacob means...
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Rounding the long bend on 65th Ave, curving northward I see him walking his faithful dog Teddy. Or maybe, I have it backwards...
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I have been asked this question by so many youth: why do we go to church? And, truly, it is a good question. While most of the time, the youth are just looking for an excuse to...
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Not much needs to be said about this painting. It is self-explanatory. I identify with both figures—the one with the arrows in the back and the one with the bow. How about you?
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As I was reading the verse from Philippians 2 for today, I was immediately reminded of a hymn which is probably not very well-known but it tells the story...
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One of my favorite songs is “10,000 Reasons (Bless The Lord)” by Matt Redman. I love this song because it reminds me that we are all...
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Ironically, the Bible does not give us a ton of detail about heaven. There are a few specific characteristics given, but...
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Things were missing from the deck. The thief had come in the middle of the night. Clues were left behind in the form of...
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Listening. “Let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.” I must admit reading this text brings me back to my childhood...
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“Introverted or Extraverted, What’s Your Power?” “Name Your Strengths and Claim Them!” ....
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When I was in Rome last summer, I had the distinct pleasure of taking in Michelangelo’s artwork in the Sistine Chapel. Most people know...
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I was going to further explore the first of today's Daily Texts about Hezekiah, but decided instead to talk about the second of the two Daily Texts...
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Many times, I have felt exhausted by life. There are seasons throughout our lives where we can feel like success is just making it through the day...
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There was once a couple who had been married for 60 years. Throughout their life, they had shared everything... Senior Pastor
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The parking lot was mostly empty. I pondered if it was even open. But I had been told 5 p.m. I entered through the double doors and was greeted by ...
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One of my favorite TV sitcoms was, "Everybody Loves Raymond." My Mom and I agreed not to call each other during the show...
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The next few months of my life will be big. As many of you know, I have spent the past four years studying at Luther Seminary to become...
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This painting by Flemish artist Jan Sanders van Hemessen is titled The Calling of St. Matthew. It falls into a category called...
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It is Labor Day weekend. How can THAT be? Where did the summer go? In the midst of...
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I saw this beautiful picture on Facebook. The title was “First Day in Heaven.” It’s hard to even describe the emotions that go along with this picture...
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What has 2020 been like? Yep, just one blooper after another. Enjoy this video...
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These hot August days have brought a radical new sound to my backyard sanctuary. In addition to the normal soothing sounds...
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Marty, the girls and I went to Glen Orchard last week to pick apples. With a hint of autumn’s chill in the air, I decided it was time for...
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It must have been quite a sight. Scores of people congregating along the banks of the Jordan ready to enter the river ...
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We may look at art from all over the world and from many different eras, but sometimes it’s good to look in our own backyard...
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This verse from Ephesians sounds as if it was tailor-made for us right here and right now...
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"What the World Needs Now Is Love" was a popular 1965 song with lyrics by Hal David and music ...
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A few years ago, I bought a jacket, and I encountered Inspector Forty-Seven...
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High in the Fryingpan Basin, we climbed breathlessly underneath clear, azure skies. The brilliant warm sunshine warmed...
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You have heard it said, “One man’s junk is another man’s treasure.” This week is garbage pick up week in Fargo...
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Next week, I have an appointment with the optometrist. We are going to look at my eyes! The topic – how well do I see? My hunch...
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This painting by Dresden painter Johann Emanuel Gobel was discovered in 1985 and is believed to be a rare portrait of ...
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I was recently on a silent retreat at a lovely place called Wellspring’s Farm near Annandale Minnesota. When you need a time of rest...
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I want to draw your attention to two verses from the scriptures that help me put stressful, crazy, and chaotic seasons of life...
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At a recent church council meeting, one of our council members, a middle aged father of four, shared a very insightful comment. He stated...
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After a hot summer with lots of trips for ice-cream and ample lake time, the season of fall has arrived. It’s getting closer to ...
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First Lutheran Church - Fargo Sermon Series June 2021 Paul's Missionary Journeys
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I remember a day, this past summer, swimming with the kids at Detroit Lakes. It wasn’t really swimming…it was more like soaking ...
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Perhaps you know the story of Job, shown here with his wife. He was a prosperous and godly man, blessed with...
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I am thankful that I'm able to take a walk each morning around my neighborhood. I know of people who can barely walk or who have...
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One of my favorite shows over many years has been, "Kids Say the Darndest Things." I love the pure innocence of their...
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I have many times said those words from the pulpit. When I do, although people are polite, I can tell from their expressions...
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White wood shavings flew in all directions. Each draw knife coaxing out a thinly sliced curly-cue of cream colored ash or ...
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Has it ever happened to you that you hear a song speak? Either in the lyrics or the rhythm or the melody and it moves you to feel...
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Three places… Last weekend, I went to the family farm near Devils Lake for the waterfowl opener. The night before...
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I have a love affair with The Saint John’s Bible and this is an illumination of the Parable of the Four Soils from that Bible (Mark 4:1-20). Notice it is ...
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Last Saturday, Rollie called me and asked me a very strange question. He asked me if I could be Dolly Parton for him ...
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From the very first day, we were there, taking it all in—we heard it with our own ears, saw it with our own eyes, verified it with...
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We had our first fall fire this weekend. The wood snapped, crackled and popped as the flames danced in the dark. It was a holy moment....
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Have you ever wanted something so much, that it’s all you could think about? Wanting it consumed every part of your life, but then....
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Sometimes we think miracles are miraculous events beyond the limits of reason. Sometimes we think that miracles are...
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Today’s painting is by the Dutch artist Peter Paul Rubens. He is depicting the four gospel writers meeting together. An angel is giving them....
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In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, in the midst of racial tensions, in the midst of wildfires still burning, in the midst of the upcoming election, we need...
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Most of us have been hospitalized at one time and if you haven't, chances are you know someone who has. A simple fact of being hospitalized is...
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I have a canoe that lives under my deck. Early summer, we found a better place for the canoe…in the water! Canoes seemingly work better when...
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The parking lot was empty which only added to my deep sense of aloneness and isolation. The air was still and temps hovered in the....
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I was lamenting the other day that fall felt different without college football. Bison nation has gone quiet without the rallying cry of...
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Her name was Sacagawea. She helped Lewis and Clark explore unfamiliar territory. She was an interpreter and negotiator...
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When this scene was painted (circa 1510), it was one of the first landscape paintings of this scale ever done. The artist, Patinir, is considered...
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During a recent session with my spiritual director, I was talking about life looking different than I had anticipated. Not better or worse, just...
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As a communication major in college I studied etymology; the history, origin and derived meanings of words. Most of us take for granted the...
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The warm afternoon sun felt comforting on my face as I ran along the bike path between Dike East and...
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I am a voracious reader, typically reading several books at the same time. One or more of these are often assigned for...
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This coming Sunday is Reformation Sunday. We remember Martin Luther, a no-name monk, who taught...
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This painting is quite small—only 12 inches by 12 inches. The size invites...
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When I think of a gift, I think of birthdays, or Christmas, or Mother's Day or Father's Day...
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Do you remember Stuart Smalley from Saturday Live?
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Two friends took a picnic lunch to the beach. They rolled out a blanket and sat down in the sand. One of the friends...
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As the woods awaken around me, it is quiet and serene. There is a feel of moisture to the air and my leather gloves are...
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All Saints Day is November 1. It is a day in the Christian Church that commemorates all the saints...
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Remember the sabbath day and keep it holy. The first holy thing in creation was not a people or a...
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I ran across this quote on a blog by Gehad Gamal and I’m not sure if she wrote it or if it should be attributed to...
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On Wednesday night we had our first night of virtual Youth Group. For it we watched a NOOMA video, called...
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A few weeks ago I was following a supply truck of some kind. The slogan on the back of the truck was...
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“Mann Tracht, Un Gott Lacht” is an old Yiddish adage meaning, “Man Plans, and God Laughs.” Despite...
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Sitting 20’ up in my tree-stand, I silently waited for the coming of the dawn. The woods all around me were...
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Much of who I am, what I value, stand for and believe in comes from the prairie. I grew up on a...
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Holden Village. It is nestled in the Cascade Mountains of Washington. Holden is only accessible by...
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As much as I love the warmth of summer, I also appreciate the nip in the air that comes with...
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When I first read through these scripture passages, I was all set to talk about prayer.
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Take a few minutes to join me for prayer this morning. I'd like to read and share a prayer titled...
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There is in Scripture a mandate to practice hospitality. When many of us think of hospitality today we think entertaining....
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Let me introduce you to Dumbledor. Dumbledor is a male sheep, or a ram, ear tag #21. He was born in...
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On this Veterans Day, I reflect on growing up in a small community that packed the high school...
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Jesus tells a story about a man who goes on a journey (Matt. 25:14-30). He entrusts, before he leaves...
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In Mark 8:27-29, we come across Jesus asking his friends what the talk on the street is about his identity...
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When I was eight years old I got into the biggest trouble of my young life. The ‘incident’ began with me hanging out with...
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I felt compelled to write about the love of God for today’s devotional. For several days, I was armed with my Bible and pen...
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Walking. The simple act of walking is on my brain of late. For one, with the onset of winter, and feeling like....
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The first year our family was in Nebraska we knew we would be alone for the holidays. We knew it...
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The parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) is deeply layered which essentially mirrors daily life. There is endless conversation...
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Jesus doesn’t always act like we think he should. Take, for instance, the time when he clears...
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What the world needs now is love, sweet love; it's the only thing that there's just too little of...
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Next Sunday, we enter into one of my favorite seasons of...
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Growing-up, fall was always full of excitement as we started a new...
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Alien spacecraft hovers over rescue workers! Or maybe not...
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Several years ago, my mother-in-law came to visit us in Nebraska with the sole purpose...
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His name was Pastor Ray. He could always be counted on to speak these words in almost...
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Most people above a certain age are familiar with Norman Rockwell...
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When I think about Thanksgiving I think about traditions. The strongest traditions...
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I remember, as a new pastor, looking out my office window at a house that was draped...
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The Thanksgiving table was set with all the classics. Turkey, stuffing...
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We waited until the day after Thanksgiving to decorate our Christmas tree...
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In the course of just a few hours today I received sad news and good news from...
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When I came across this painting, I thought it was an appropriate image for...
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It's the most wonderful time of the year! Is it, though??...
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Parts of California in 2019 experienced what is called a super bloom....
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On a recent elk-hunting trip in the mountains of Colorado, my buddy John...
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The Robertsons really enjoy Christmas music. I was half way through our...
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One of my favorite places to be is in my dining room looking out towards...
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The wolf shall live with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the kid...
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The Red River snakes along its course bending, twisting, turning, and ...
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What’s the deal with Hallmark Christmas movies...
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We have all experienced dark times. You might be living in it right...
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Not many artists depict the Christmas story through the eyes of...
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Today is the Saturday before Christmas. Tomorrow is the Fourth...
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Are you sick of hearing that, yet? To be sure, it will be different but ...
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The power of one. One more present to wrap. One more gift to buy and one more cookie...
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All of the Advent candles are lit. The waiting and preparing are...
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Merry Christmas on this Christmas morn! I pray you have experienced a taste of...
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Did you know that the 12 days of Christmas start on Christmas day? So today the 26th is...
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Simeon and Anna. We bump into these two in the...
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Heading out from my weekend camping trip to Itasca, I hefted my backpack and quietly...
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Yesterday was our daughter’s eleventh birthday. We celebrated with the usual cake and...
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I saw this posted on a social media site the other day. I laughed and ...
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Isn’t this a lovely winter scene? I pray your Christmas was filled with...
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As we look back on the year 2020, what will we remember...
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Dreams are meant to be a little crazy! We are four days into...
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I recently received this powerful email from one of First Lutheran’s faithful...
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How are you doing with your New Year’s resolutions? We are...
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So. Much. Stuff. I caught a few episodes of American Pickers while...
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In John 2, we find the story of Jesus’ first miracle: turning water...
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This past Wednesday, I was consumed by feelings of...
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If a tree falls in a forest and no one is around to hear it, does it make...
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Cresting the top of the dike, I observe Orion, lying on his...
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Last January my family boarded its first and last flight of 2020. We were coming home from...
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What does it mean to be "fully present?" ​I believe it is the ability to recognize the Holy in...
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This painting was so endearing that I couldn’t help sharing it...
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Growing up in my home congregation of Lutheran Church of the Master in Omaha, I don't remember...
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Fog. It is hard to see. Driving can be difficult. It is hard to see. We could lose our...
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My eldest daughter Karina is a talented artist. She is especially good at throwing beautiful and...
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Lucy Davis. I just love that name. It is packed with star power, don’t you think? Say it a...
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A couple of days ago, my inner critic was flapping about how hard my life ...
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About this time of year, I start to long for summer. Even though this winter has...
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On Wednesday evening with my confirmation small group, we talked about...
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Jacob wrestled with God. The wrestling yielded a blessing but also a good...
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How is your withdrawal? How are you doing at breaking away? How is your...
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I am sick of wearing masks. There I said it. I know I’m not alone and no this isn’t a...
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For everything, there is a season, a time for every activity under....
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In Acts 7, we find the story of the church’s first martyr, Saint...
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Ground that drinks up the rain falling on it repeatedly, and that produces a...
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When I was in seminary, I was part of a group of students that...
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Long winter nights, and more free time from COVID, have given me lots of...
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The week leading up to the Super Bowl is a big deal if you’re in the...
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I recently borrowed a lovely book of prayers and poems from a friend titled...
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How cruel of me to choose a painting entitled...
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For the Lord your God has blessed you in all that you have done...
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Years ago, I penned the words, “Dark Night of the Soul.” I do not know if I had ever heard...
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Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Peru, Ecuador, Columbia,...
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Last week, I was reading a devotion that my friend and...
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One night, in early December, I received a random email...
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Caravaggio is one of my favorite artists. I have a book of his complete works and I never...
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Many years ago, a pastor told me that another pastor had told him...
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When I was a boy of about eight-years-old, my afterschool...
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In defiance of the long-lasting intense cold snap that seems to have...
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Dusting is my jam. When we divide up the household chores, I am...
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We are fussing, throughout this season of Lent, with the theme...
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In 2012, a Catholic church in the village of Borja in northeastern Spain suspected...
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Several times a day I will do a “toss-up” prayer. “Lord lead me on the path you...
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The beauty of America and the Christian faith is the abundance of...
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Friday afternoon found me relaxing on the sofa wrapped in...
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I am a child of the 1980s. Big hair don’t care, high-waisted stonewashed...
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We said good-bye but this time it was different...
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The painting we are looking at today is...
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This past Wednesday evening we had an...
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I bet this was a stressful time for Jesus. And if there is one thing I have learned...
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My phone was ringing in the kitchen. I glanced at my alarm...
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My mom spent much of the month of February with us. Before you...
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I caught her. I went into her room one early...
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Consider the Old Testament prophet Jeremiah. Imagine preaching to...
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Sweet Amy, a kindergartner, came home from school one day and...
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When I was a boy of about eight-years-old, my afterschool buddies...
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The blazing heat had beat down upon us all...
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This is one of my favorite pictures of our daughter with...
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This was my dad. Often, we would hear him loft these...
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This painting by Giovanni Francesco Barbieri offers us a...
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How many decisions do we make in our lives every single day...
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In John 10:10, Jesus says, “I came that they may have life and have...
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This past winter we’ve spent a lot of time walking up and down...
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Our daughter Sarah sits next to Mr. Michael Olson each...
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Spring ahead. Check. The cold, winter fast is over...
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The painting I am sharing with you today has no great...
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In the past few months, some of our confirmation kids have been...
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The next day the great crowd that had come to the festival heard...
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Dads. Probably one of the most influential aspects of shaping who...
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In six days we celebrate the 4th of July. The 4th of July is an opportunity to be...
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Most evenings in the spring and summer I close the day by scooting up ...
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How would one depict hope? What would that look like? “Hope” is the title of this painting by...
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The Olympics is a celebration of competition, endurance, strength, fighting...
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What do we do with what God has given to us?...
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Two wealthy brothers had terrorized the small town where they lived for decades. They were...
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We splashed through muddy pools of rainwater, bumping our way down the...
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We are definitely in the dog days of summer. T – minus two weeks before...
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We write our own stories in this book called life. Some write in a linear way with...
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I’m not sure why I was drawn to this painting by Chaim Soutine called ...
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A few weeks ago, Greg and I spent time in Waco, Texas. We have always enjoyed...
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Instructions are for Wimps! One of the things I like about the book of Ephesians is...
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These two beautiful gifts, sit on my work desk. In my fidgety, and tactile way...
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I must admit that PC (pre-COVID) life is becoming a distant memory for me...
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The heat was oppressive, although it was late in the evening. Our taxis pulled up...
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The title of this painting, Penelope Unraveling Her Web, suggests there might be a story here and...
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Imagine with me this story from the OT book of 1 Samuel. The Philistines have...
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My dear dialoguing damsel, Siri, reminded me that I had arrived. My destination would be on...
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Harvest time is my favorite time of year on the farm. There is a certain energy brought to bear on the hopefulness of filling the hopper...
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I spent two days last week painting bedrooms for Hannah and Sarah. It had...
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Imagine you’ve been assigned a project in which you have no experience and the outcome...
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It is "that time of year" once again -- the time of year where everything is going to be...
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Her name was Patti, and of all the faces from my youth, I will remember her's best. We met while ...
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A beautiful Saturday had dawned with bright sunshine and moderate temps. I had agreed to meet...
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Last week the news coming out of Afghanistan took my breath away. When the names of thirteen...
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School is in session. There is excitement in the air, maybe even some....
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A few weeks ago, my husband and I took in an immersive Vincent van Gogh exhibit in Minneapolis. It was housed in...
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In conversations with many different people this past month, I have heard so much...
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I walked into Costco to grab a few things on my list: laundry detergent, toilet paper, granola bars, and eggs. I promised myself...
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I am so very sorry Steve. I never got to say goodbye. There was no funeral. No service of...
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Monday, September 6 was a quiet Labor Day in Fargo. Traffic was light. Businesses were...
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Carl Spitzweg titled this painting The Librarian, but the viewing public renamed it...
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Several times a day I will do a “toss up” prayer. - “Lord lead me on the path you have for me.” I have many “toss up” ...
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Light momentary afflictions. Uff da! I have had a few lately. First, the Mayo Clinic diagnosis of...
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Stealing a move from Pastor Laurie’s playbook, I begin with David, the masterpiece sculpture in...
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I didn’t mean to do it. It just sort of happened. I scheduled myself too tight. An early...
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