The Voice of Hope 1

The Voice of Hope

Hope Lutheran Church

1750 SE Lennard Rd., Port St. Lucie, Fl. 34952

Rev. Dr. Earnest E. Tate

Deacon Susan Spee

Office: 772-335-4673

www.hopelutheranpsl.org

email-hopeoffice1@gmail.com

July-August 2018

To the People of God here at Hope:

Rev. Dr. Earnest E. Tate, Pastor

Attributes of Good Leadership by Pastor Tate, Excerpts from Minute Motivators for

Leaders, Stan Toler-Part 5

• Not only do leaders understand their own function-their role-they also know the roles of

the other members on their team. Good leaders never ask people to function in ways

they're not equipped to serve. Leaders know how to place people in their best positions.

• Good leaders act responsibly. They don't need to be told when they're wrong. More often

than not, they'll tell you. They manifest in their own lives the personal openness and

honesty they expect from their associates.

• Leaders expand their work by multiplication, not just by addition. An experienced

leader is always on the lookout for a talented newcomer. Leaders know they are limited

by time and space to meet all the needs of the organization. Leaders spend time

recruiting leaders.

PASTOR’S PAGE

The Voice of Hope 2

• Some very gifted people don't work well with others. They are solo performers. They'll

achieve more on their own than if they were burdened with two assistants.

• The leader knows when the team members need encouragement and when they need

rest. He or she is alert to the signs of fatigue and stress. The leader knows when a pause

will put the team on fast-forward. He or she also understands the power of a good word

in propelling the team to good work.

• A good leader understands that concept and treats team members as individuals. Leaders

understand that people are different and make it a point to understand that uniqueness

in their team members. Some would call that a good management technique. Good

leaders think of it as common courtesy. They treat others as they themselves would like

to be treated.

• Good leaders are comfortable in their own skin. They know what's true about them, and

they don't mind hearing it. They also know their weakness, and so they listen to the

suggestions that will help them fulfill their leadership role. Leaders are honest with

themselves.

• Birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, births-these events mark the passage of life. Good

leaders are aware of the life stages of their team members. By celebrating these special

days, they affirm their team members' value. Leaders are always alert the “precious

moments" of their associates.

• Effective leaders are tactful. While praise is given in the hearing of others, rebuke is

made in private. They never berate or belittle their associates. Their critique is always

wrapped in a blanket of kindness. Seldom will the harsh treatment of a team member

result in better performance. Bitterness, not "betterness" is usually the result.

• Leaders listen to their team. What do the team members need? What are their

suggestions for greater organizational efficiency? How are they relating to the

leadership? To each other? By carefully listening and responding, the leader can make

quick improvements that will dramatically affect the organization.

• Effective leaders have disciplined work habits. They are dependable, punctual,

consistent, and trustworthy. Leaders know how to focus on a project, ovoid distractions,

and move toward a stated goal. Discipline is not optional. Leaders know that a steady,

sustained effort is necessary to accomplish the mission.

• They realize that each of their associates has an extended family. And that extended

family has achievements or setbacks that will directly affect the attitude of the associate.

By expressing an interest in the extended family, the leader expresses a personal concern

that ties him or her to the team member. Leaders like people.

The Voice of Hope 3

• Good leaders are not afraid to admit weakness. In fact, they honestly examine

themselves to identify areas of need. In being transparent about themselves, they can

focus on turning their weaknesses into strengths. Effective leaders aren't afraid to ask

for help. By doing so, they not only open the door to self-improvement but also gain

personal strength.

• It's the leader who must make the hard decisions, deciding quickly and carefully who

goes and who remains, or making the painful decisions that plug the money flow. It's

the leader who must ensure that the needs of the group are met and who is responsible

for making the work or ministry environment either happy or horrible. The leader must

go the extra mile if the organization is going to go farther down the road.

• Leaders take time to communicate with their spouses. They don't leave their listening

ears at the office. They share their dreams, update their spouses on their organizational

plans, and seek their spouses' advice. They treat their spouses. better than their most

trusted associates. Leaders make sure that, of all the people who compete for their

attention, their families get first priority.

Pastor Tate

The Voice of Hope 4

STEWARDSHIP CORNER

We cannot do everything. God's reign is not only beyond

our efforts, it is beyond our seeing and knowing. We plant

seeds, knowing that they hold hope for the future. We lay

foundations that will need further development. There is a

sense of liberation, however, in realizing that. We can do

something, and we can do it very well. We can take that

first step knowing that we may never see the end of the

road, the results of actions, the recipients of our giving. We receive and offer the gift of hope.

The harvest will come.

I am a dirt gardener. Many of my days are spent "growing dirt," preparing the soil for future

plantings. That is an act of hope. We know that we are only workers, not the Master Gardner.

Accepting the gifts of silence, light, the guiding Spirit, and hope, we are co-creators of the

future, which is in God's hands.

Creator God, God of all the yesterdays and all of the tomorrows, grant us the gift of hope.

You give us breath; you give yourself in Jesus; you shower us with your Holy Spirit. Forbid

us from keeping our gifts for ourselves. Forgive us when we attach strings to our gifts. We

have received freely; may we give freely. Amen.

-author unknown

Baptism of Rebecca Fuqua

The Voice of Hope 5

July Events at Hope

The Voice of Hope 6

Hope’s Library

Church Clean-up Day

SATURDAY August 11th is Clean-up

Saturday. There will be a light lunch following,

with free hot dogs for the community.

. VETERAN’S BREAKFAST The veterans will be meeting at Perkins

Restaurant on August 25th at 8:30 a.m. Come and

join us for great conversation! Every veteran has

a story, what’s yours!

Mustard Seed Donations The Women of Hope is suggesting that families

bring canned meat every Sunday for the month of

June to put in the Mustard Seed collection basket

between the narthex and the sanctuary. Each

month we will suggest another item that Hope

can contribute to help Mustard Seed feed those in

need.

Memory Verse 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be

served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom

for many.”

Mark 10:45 New King James Version (NKJV)

Volunteer Hours Thank to all who have volunteered this month

with their time, talents, and resources. There were

over 200 volunteer hours for the months of June

and July. The Bible frequently praises the

virtuous nature of helping those in need which is

the essence of volunteering. According to

scripture, it is right to give our time and/or money

when we have acquired success in life and are

able to do so.

Movie Night On July 27th there was a family night

starting with a garden party @ 4 p.m., potluck

@ 5 p.m. followed by a movie @ 6 p.m. We

had 20 people enjoy food, fun and fellowship.

The featured movie for July was “The King’s

Speech”. The movie for August 31st, will be

“The Counterfeit Traitor” with William Holden

and Lilli Palmer.

The Assistant to the Bishop Rev. Khader El-Yateem will be here to visit

our church on August 12th and he will preach at

both the 9 AM and 11 AM service. There will

be a meeting with him, immediately following

the 2nd service at 12:20 PM. This meeting is for

council members, leaders, counters, and

anyone who is interested in the finances of the

church.

Welcome to Hope We welcome new members to Hope in July.

Through affirmation of faith; Debra Vadala,

Fabrice Larose, and through the Sacrament of

Baptism; Rebecca Fuqa.

The Voice of Hope 7

Hope’s Library

We invite all students, teachers, and educators to bring their backpacks, and workbags as we ask God's blessings on the new school year. Sunday, August 12, 9 & 11 AM

Books on Display Billy Graham Nearing Home Karen Kingsbury – Angels Walking – Chasing Sunsets His Mysterious Ways History of Scotland Secrets of Amish Diary Grand Weaver (How God shapes us through events in our lives) At Home with Jesus Devotions for children Get Off Your Knees and Pray

The Voice of Hope 8

The Apostles’ Creed The Apostles did not write the Apostles' Creed. No one knows for certain when this creed was written.

References to and quotation of similar statements known as the "Rule of Faith" can be found in writings

as early as the second century AD. The name "Apostles' Creed" means that the creed contains the

Apostolic tradition. The Apostles' Creed is the most universal of all the creeds. Most Christian

denominations continue to recite and teach it.

Early creedal statements were very helpful for new Christians in understanding their faith. These early

creedal statements were used in baptism. New believers memorized and studied them before being

baptized. It is quite possible that from these baptismal "formulas," the ancient church developed what we

now call the Apostles' Creed.

Apostles’ Creed Summary of Meaning

I believe in ... (Isa. 44:6)

The basic meaning of creed. It expresses the

beliefs that unite all Christians. The words that

follow preserve the teaching of the Apostles.

God, the Father Almighty (Isa. 44:6)

Not just belief in an impersonal force or in many

gods, but rather, a deep trust in a personal,

caring, loving God.

Maker of heaven and earth: (Gen. 1:1; John

1:1)

God is powerful. Just as God created the

universe, God can heal, save, guard, comfort,

and guide us. The whole universe is his.

And in Jesus Christ, his only Son, (John 9:38;

20:28)

We believe Jesus is the promised Messiah.

Believing in God is also believing

in Jesus.

Our Lord; (Phil. 2:9-11) No nation, no king, no Caesar comes first: only

Jesus is Lord. He has all authority and power;

only he deserves praise and worship.

Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, and

born of the Virgin Mary; (Luke 1:35)

Jesus' birth and life were a miracle. By being

fully human, Jesus has given us an example of

life, taken upon himself the penalty of sin, and

given us a new life and a new future.

The Voice of Hope 9

Suffered under Pontius Pilate, (Luke 23:23-

25)

Many have blamed Jews for Jesus' death. The

Creed makes it clear that Pilate decided Jesus'

death. Jesus died an innocent man. Pilate's

injustice contrasts with God's justice; Pilate's

arrogance contrasts with Jesus' humility.

Was crucified, died, and buried (1 Car. 15:3-

4)

These events really happened. Jesus' crucifixion

and death were not merely staged; Jesus' death

was real and a sad necessity for our sake.

He descended into hell; (1 Peter 3:18-19) The meaning of this line is not clear; some think

it refers to 1 Peter 3:19: "He went and preached

to the spirits in prison." It is also possible to

translate this line as "he descended to the dead,"

emphasizing the reality of Jesus' death. The

phrase was not in the oldest available copy of

the creed.

On the third day he rose from the dead; (1

Car. 15:4)

Jesus' resurrection is fundamental. His

resurrection points to the fulfillment of all

justice and the hope for all believers. Jesus is the

"firstborn from among the dead" (Col. 1:18).

He ascended into heaven and is seated at the

right hand of the Father; (Luke 24:51)

Ascending to heaven and sitting at the right

hand of the Father demonstrate Jesus' authority

over the whole creation.

From thence he will come to judge the living

and the dead. (2 Tim. 4:1; John 5:22)

Jesus' second coming will not be like a humble

lamb. He will return like a triumphant king and

judge. With his authority, he will judge all of

creation. Christians rest assured that there is "no

condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus"

(Rom. 8:1).

I believe in the Holy Spirit, (John 15:26;

16:7-14)

Jesus promised to send us a comforter, guide,

equipper, and advocate. The Holy Spirit is God's

presence in our midst.

The Voice of Hope 10

The communion of saints, (Heb. 10:25)

In Jesus, all believers from all places and all

times are brothers and sisters; we all share the

same fellowship, the same Spirit, and the same

Lord. We, who were many, are now one people

in Jesus.

The forgiveness of sins, (Heb, 8:12; Luke

7:48)

Sin had broken our relationship with God, with

creation, and with one another. Jesus has

reconciled us with God, freeing us from our sin

and death.

The resurrection of the body, and the life

everlasting. (1 Thess. 4:16; John 10:28)

Unlike the Gnostics who viewed every physical

reality as evil, Christians believe that they will

receive new bodies and a new creation. Jesus'

resurrected body was real (he could eat and

could be touched); our resurrection bodies will

also have a physical nature. And we will live

with Jesus forever in a new creation.

Submitted by Pr. Tate, July 29, 2018

Rose Publishing 2015

***************************************************************************************

We will be having a yard sale on

Saturday November 17th from 8 AM

to noon, on the grounds of Hope

Lutheran Church. Start gathering

your items. All proceeds will go to

our General Fund. Anyone vendors

interested in being a vendor can

contact the church at 772-335-4673,

or email Brenda Newins at

b.newins@hotmail.com. Please see

Brenda Newins, Roxie Roberts, or Jim Rodgers with any questions.

The Voice of Hope 11

Current and Future Cell Groups Movie Night Last Friday of the month. Feature Movie August 31st - “The Counterfeit Traitor” starring William Holden and Lilli Palmer- Garden Party @ 4 p.m. Potluck @ 5 p.m. movie at 6 p.m.

Six Reasons to Join a Cell Group – Credit to Holy Spirit Lutheran Church in Juno • Relationships: A life group gives you the opportunity to get to know people at a more intimate level. Sunday mornings are an awesome time to worship with the whole family of God, hear a sermon, engage in fellowship, but a life group gives you a chance to build deeper friendships. • Learning the Word of God: Sunday's sermon is a great time to get a broad teaching of the Word of God. However, life groups provide time for one on one discussion. Your group can provide a time to clarify answers to questions that you have about the Bible, Sunday's message, etc. • Place to invite friends: A life group is a natural place to invite friends and family. Sometimes people are more comfortable going to a life group then attending a Sunday morning service. • Place to pray and share your needs: A gathering of a few people is a natural environment for prayer. A big part of prayer is conversation with God and life groups provide the perfect environment for communing with God. • Engage in worship: Gathering in a life group allows you to experience worship at a very intimate level. • Follow the New Testament teachings: Acts 2:42-47 gives us a blueprint of what the early church was passionately committed to. The early Christ Followers gathered in homes, shared meals, read the Word, prayed, and worshiped. When you participate in a life group you are following the New Testament teaching.

The Voice of Hope 12

Church Council

President - Bob Hanson

Vice President - Fred Heins Theresa Tasker \

Secretary - Nan Billings Joe Weber

Treasurer - Debbie Barr Brenda Newins

COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES – May 14, 2018 In Attendance: Bob Hanson, Fred Heins, Nan Billings, Brenda Newins, Martin Frano,

Debbie Barr, Theresa Tasker, Pastor Tate. Absent excused: Emily Banks. Absent not

excused: Joe Weber

Meeting called to order: 6:35 pm

Pastor Tate opened with prayer

New Business:

Carpet Shampooer – Bob informed us that Debbie Pinto reported the carpet shampooer

caught fire and was thrown away. She asked that a replacement be purchased (Amazon

$127.99). It was suggested that an announcement be made to the congregation to cover the

cost by donation. A motion was made by Debbie Barr to accept the above action, seconded

by Brenda Newins, motion carried. Debbie Barr will notify Debbie Pinto of the action.

Baptisms – Marty brought up concerns about baptisms and usher observation. Nan reported

concern from a parishener also. Pastor specified that he baptises into the “Body of Christ.”

Parking Lot Lines Painted – Fred reported that the parking lot lines are faded and need to

be re-painted: blue for current and additional reserved spaces and white for faded lines. It

was suggested to add this cost to the amount for the shampooer and ask the congregation for

$500 to cover both requests. All were in agreement.

Committee Reports:

Fund Raising/Helping Hands: Theresa sent Bob a letter about bingo and bingo funds and it

was discussed.

The Voice of Hope 13

Secretary’s Report: Brenda asked that we make changes to April’s minutes: Specify

excused/not excused in attendance section (Bob will check with Joe to see why he has not

been able to attend) and change Old Business report for Changing titles for administrators for

facebook to: Brenda reported that Ellen King was not able to change titles for administrators

for Facebook. Ellen WAS able to make name changes as follows: Administrators

exclusively will be Pastor Tate, Ellen King, Debbie Pinto and Theresa Tasker. A motion was

made by Theresa Tasker to accept the April minutes as corrected, seconded by Brenda

Newins, motion carried.

Financial Secretary’s Report: First, there was a discussion that a yearly audit should be

initiated in November to be available before Annual Meetings. There was then a discussion

about the cost of the Houston trip. In order for the church to help support the youth, the

church needs to know details about the trip – total amount needed, what has been raised and

what still needs to be raised. Pastor then gave us guidelines for ministries from the

Tradewinds Conference:

1. The activity/ministry must be consistant with the mission of the church.

2. Can we make it work ($, manpower, persons taking ownership)?

3. Is the timing right?

4. Is there enough capitol to make it work?

Policy/Personnal Committee: Debbie Pinto and Ellen King signed their secretary contract,

which will run through the end of December. Diane did not sign (as she is moving). Marty

Frano made a motion to accept the report, seconded by Debbie Barr, motion carried.

Treasures Report: Bob said that there is most likely enough funds to make April’s

“interest only” payment and possibly also May to be caught up-to-date. Castle paid through

the end of the their contract. A motion was made by Nan Billings to accept the report,

seconded by Theresa Tasker, motion carried.

President’s Report: Bob will be in Vermont next month and will not be at the June council

meeting. Discussion about the Tradewinds Conference and positive reports from those who

attended.

The Voice of Hope 14

Together in Mission Report: Nan supplied her monthly report and informed that she will

be meeting with Prince of Peace on June 5th to discuss initiating their community garden.

Women of Hope Report: Nan reported that 24 women attended the Tea, ladies from

Melborne to Boca Raton enjoyed food and fellowship.

Pastor’s Report: Pastor will e-mail council his report. He said that 4 (maybe 6) children

will be confirmed on Sunday, May 27th after a 2-year program. He gave an overview of the

program. He also highlighted main points from the Tradewinds Conference.

Old Business:

Interview with Amanda Sofia – Brenda reported that she and Ellen King interviewed

Amanda after reviewing her resume. Unfortunately she has been hired by another church

and has not responded about musicians who may be interested in joining the band.

Weddings at Hope – Debbie Barr spoke with and gave a tour of Hope to Weddings by

Rachael wedding coordinator, Rachael. She suggested we focus more on Sweet 16, baby

showers, etc. More discussion about other possibilities such as focusing on conferences, etc.

and provide an open house for persons such as caterers, photographers, musicians, wedding

planners, etc. Debbie will contact her contacts and Nan will contact Jane at Silver Platter.

Pastor will look into allowing/not allowing alcohol.

Next Regular Council Meeting will be Monday, June 11, 2018 at 6:30pm

Meeting ended at 8:32pm with the Lord’s prayer.

Respecfully submitted by Nan Billings

The Voice of Hope 15

COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES – June 11, 2018 In Attendance: Fred Heins, Nan Billings, Theresa Tasker, Emily Banks, Pastor Tate.

Absent excused: Bob Hanson, Debbie Barr, Brenda Newins. Absent not excused: Joe

Weber

Meeting called to order: 6:35 pm

Pastor Tate opened with prayer

Secretary’s Report: Discussion that the editor of the newsletter should have permission

from the council to edit the council minutes where appropriate and provide highlights of the

council minutes in the newsletter. All were in favor. A motion was made by Theresa Tasker

to accept the May minutes, seconded by Emily Banks, motion carried.

Financial Secretary’s Report: A motion was made by Nan Billings to accept the report,

seconded by Emily Banks, motion carried.

Treasures Report: A motion was made by Nan Billings to accept the report, seconded by

Emily Banks, motion carried.

Committee Reports:

Fred Heins initiated discussion about the need to develop committees: identify chairpersons,

grow and maintain committees (Ushers, Grounds, Alter Guild, Maintenance, Music,

Christian Education, Stewardship, Policy and Proceedures, Evanulisiam, Fundraising and

Missions). Council would encourage each committee to have a representative attend council

meetings to report on activities going on in the church. Pastor shared his flow chart with an

infrastructure of church activities and the sequence they should follow. It was decided that

to best implement these ideas that council will meet on Saturday, July 14, 2018 from 1pm to

3pm for a workshop to prepare and set a date for a Congregational Retreat.

Women of Hope Report: Nan reported that a donation of $200 was made to the Youth

Gathering Houston trip and that the women will breaking for the summer, resuming in

August.

Together in Mission Report: Nan supplied monthly report for May: $325 spent, 31 hours

worked, 8 volunteers and 19 persons served. Outreach garden for Prince of Peace will be

Monday, July 23.

The Voice of Hope 16

Old Business:

Repairs: $800 was requested from the congregation to pay for a new carpet shampooer,

lawn mower repairs, and paint to paint the lines in the parking lot. Fred reported that $1170

was collected. The additional funds were able to go toward an unexpected bill for AC repair

of $873.

New Keys: Fred reported that 3 keys have not been returned to the office from persons who

are no longer attending Hope. The office manager has reccommended that the locks be

changed. The cost is $400. She also suggested that when keys are given out that the church

collects a key deposit fee of $25 from each person who receives a key. Theresa Tasker

made a motion to accept the above action. Seconded by Emily Banks, motion carried.

Pastor’s Report: Pastor Tate reviewed his report which included an overview of the

confirmation curriculum and faith statements shared during their confirmation by the four

new confirmands, Ana Bergerman, Philip Bergerman, Fisher Nelson and Reef Nelson. He

also shared highlights from the Florida-Bahamas Synod Assembly and reminded council

that Hope will be celebrating their 35th anniversary this year.

Vice-President’s Report: See below – New Business

New Business:

Next Years Council – Fred brought it to the councils attention that now is the time to be

thinking of new council members and council president. Discussion concluded that two new

items are needed: a council nominating committee and an annual internal audit. These will

be added to the July 14 workshop agenda.

Next Regular Council Meeting will be Monday, July 9, 2018 at 6:30pm

Meeting ended at 8:05pm with the Lord’s prayer.

Respecfully submitted by Nan Billings

The Voice of Hope 17

July Birthdays

7/03 Margaret Eubank

7/11 Gwendolyn Smith

7/14 Karen Harris

Josselyn Dawson

7/21 Diane Roma

7/22 Jim Rodgers

August Birthdays

8/01 Brenda Newins

8/02 Shelley Tillman

8/03 Randy Roberts

Sandra DelSerro

8/06 Ryan Barr

8/07 Marilyn Wheeler

8/11 Jenna Billings

8/16 Marion Zimmerman

8/22 Bob Kirchhoff

8/24 Karen Kenninger

8/25 Corrianne Billings

July Anniversaries

7/11 Frank & Karen Harris (54)

7/16 Dan & Fran Calik (44)

August Anniversaries

8/03 Gary & Nan Billings (44)

8/18 Steven & Gayle Gambill (34)

Altar Flowers

The flower chart is in the usher area. Pease select your favorite date. We have several openings for the next few months. Flowers can be sponsored for $30.00 per Sunday. If you want to pay for only one bouquet you can do so by contacting Ellen in the office. The cost is $15.00. Two families can sponsor flowers on the same Sunday. Please place your money in the offering clearly marked for flower’s including your name or turn it into the office. If you have any questions, please contact Ellen King in the office on Thursday and Friday. •

The Voice of Hope 18

Salient points in the sermon

Rev. Dr. Earnest E. Tate, Pastor

Salient points in the sermon, Mark 3: 20-35 on June 10, 2018

• In our text, Jesus has difficulty with his family. His family says, “He is out of his mind”

(v. 21). An insane person is someone who may be out of touch with reality. A person

who, in his or her mind may be living in another world. Jesus’ reality is named “the

kingdom of God.” It is a system of values. It has expectations that differs from the way

of the world. Jesus is not out of his mind. Jesus is in another frame of mind; the kingdom

of God.

• How do we respond to this kind of Conflict? What can we do to bring healing and

reconciliation to our relationships? In order to model Jesus and bring healing to our

family, we have to practice humility. If we go to a family gathering with the idea that

we are going to set everybody straight, we are probably going to leave bent out of shape.

If we have to always be right, we are wrong. If we have to win every argument, we are

going to lose.

• Ephesians 4:31-32 says, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander,

along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving

each other, just as in God forgave you”. We forgive because we have been graciously

forgiven, and in doing so, we model the love of Christ. I Corinthians 13:5 says that love

“keeps no record of wrongs.”

• We are to strive to think about things in the same manner that Jesus thinks about things.

Jesus insists that belonging to his family requires obedience. People who do God’s will

are those who believe the message of Jesus. Jesus loves us. Amen.

Salient points in the sermon, Mark 4: 26-34 on June 17, 2018

• Parables are like stories by which we enter the world of the storyteller. Regardless of

our educational level, we are able to become part of a common experience of hearing

and understanding. Parables are effective vehicles for the truth only when we are open

to hearing the truth. The parables in our text convey truths. Parables can be powerful

when they are received by us who have the faith to understand and respond to the truths.

• Most of Jesus' parables were designed to illustrate a truth about the Kingdom of God for

those with "willing ears"--as indicated in verse 4:30. What do we think of when we hear

the phrase, “Kingdom of God?” Do we think of some future time, when there will be

perfect peace and no problems?

The Voice of Hope 19

• These parables are directed to those who believe; those who are receptive to the Holy

Spirit. I believe that those with the Holy Spirit are able to hear and comprehend, not by

our own intellect, but by the power of the Holy Spirit.

• Our spiritual life is like a garden. It takes time and over time, paying careful attention to

the Word of God. We will be able to sense the direction of God. It is like this: If we

want tomatoes today, planning them yesterday will not do us much good. We should

have planted them several weeks ago.

•

Salient points in the sermon, Mark 4: 35-41 on June 24, 2018

• Is there anyone here this morning that Jesus has invited to sail into a “storm.” Was it our

idea to care for a love one who has been hospitalized, unemployed, separated, or

divorced and now they are living in our home; living in a home where our health is may

be failing, our finances may not be good, the relationships in our household may not be

good? Did we want our life to be disrupted in order to care for another person during

this stage of our life?

• Sometimes God leads us into the storms. We say, in the 23rd Psalm, “He leads me beside

still waters.” But sometimes God leads us into a storm. In 1 Samuel 17:1-49, David, the

young shepherd is led to face the giant Goliath. In our epistle, Paul is in the middle of a

big fight at the church in Corinth. David may have preferred to stay home, safely looking

after the sheep.

• The challenge we may face is that we get frustrated when we are in the storms of life

and the water seems to get into our boat. Do we believe that getting wet is a sign that

God has abandoned us and that the storms of life will overcome us? Well, if the storms

of life surround us, then we should pray. Our feet might get wet, but we are not going

to drown!

• God reaches out to us, embraces us, cares for us, comes to us – but not always. There

are times when we call upon God in prayer, but our prayers are not answered. There are

times when we cry out in distress, but we are not delivered. What then? Are we able to

let God be God, even when God does not appear to be listening to us? The disciples

were afraid, but they stay in the boat with Jesus. When all is said and done, that is true

faith. They did not jump over board. Whatever the storms may be at Hope Lutheran

Church, we can weather the storms together with the Holy Spirit as our guide. Look

around us. We are family here.

The Voice of Hope 20

Salient points in the sermon, Mark 6:1-13 on July 8, 2018

• Jesus received rejection and resistance because of his work and his words. His way was

a narrow way, a way that everyone is not willing to walk. He warned his disciples that

they might face rejection. He was, they were, and sometimes we will be "prophets

without honor." Being a Christian, a prophet, a truth-teller in the name of Jesus, means

learning to make distinctions between our way and God's way, our truths and God's

truths.

• Discipleship was and always will be costly. It is costly because it costs us our lives. We

are not preserved from tragedy and heartache. Discipleship sometimes pushes us into

painful situations. While Christ does not guarantee us from any pain or difficulties, he

does offer us a way through pain. If we are truly called, God’s grace will be sufficient

for us.

• Perhaps we should reinforce Martin Luther's vision of the priesthood of all believers.

We are ordained by God at baptism to share Christ's ministry in the world. Pursuing

that vocation, we may wear several hats; hat of a ground keeper, staff, counter, usher,

musician, altar guild member, Sunday School teacher, etc. but whatever hat we happen

to be wearing at the time, we as ministers, remember that we wear the hat as God's

representative, for God's sake, in God's name.

• Jesus was limited in what he could do, by what the people were prepared to receive.

Some of the works that Jesus had done in other places could not be done in Nazareth

because of the attitude of the people. This should remind us that God’s ministry is a two-

way street. Teaching requires both a teacher and a learner. Both must be active in the

process. Love requires at least two people. Unless both participate, a true relationship

cannot be developed. Jesus loves us because the bible tells us so. Amen.

Salient points in the sermon, Mark 6:14-29 on July 15, 2018

• There is pressure everywhere. There is pressure that we even put on ourselves; get a job,

advanced degree, home, a car, get marriage, have a family. Well, we can respond to

pressure like Herod. We can be manipulated to make decisions contrary to what we

know is right. To withstand the pressures that come upon us, we can see it in the life of

Jesus Christ. The Sadducees who wanted Jesus to stay out of politics.

• Does John the Baptist challenges us today? Where have we fallen short of God's

standards in our life? Are we aware that every now and then, how quickly things can go

terribly wrong when we forget to put God first in our lives? All that is required for evil

to triumph is for good people to do nothing." Can we look back this week on our

conversations regarding the way we have dealt with the people around us?

The Voice of Hope 21

Are we prepared like John the Baptist was-to be trustworthy spokesperson all the time

and in all places?

• The Scripture says, "Because of his oaths and because of his dinner guests ... " he did

this evil deed. Do we keep silent when we see others manipulated? Do we just sit and

watch, to see how they will handle it, or what they will do? Do we let people know that

they do not have to please us; that our friendship is not based on them agreeing with us?

Do we let people know that they don't have to live their lives asking, "What will they

think?" The person we need to be pleasing is God. The question we need to have before

us at all times is not "What will they think?" but "What will God think (the bracelet,

WWJD)?

• Are we aware of the proverb, "he who fights and runs away, lives to fight another day."

That may not be true. He may live, only to run away again at the next crisis. Romans

12:2 reminds us that, "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the

renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is good, and acceptable, and perfect will

of God" (Ro.12:2).

Salient points in the sermon, Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 on July 22, 2018

• Jesus' disciples report to him all the good things that they have accomplished. Then

Jesus commands them to rest. Jesus permits his disciples to get away from the crowd to

be refreshed, to be restored. Jesus commands us to take a vacation. Take some time off.

We can do God's work as it is delegated to us. We can work and pray and do our best to

be the light and salt to the world. The most important work is God's. So, if we have not

yet taken a vacation, gotten away from it all, experienced a change of scenery, or

wandered into the wilderness, we should take a break. After all, Jesus commands us to

rest.

• Rest is not only vital to our spiritual lives, it is imperative, if we are to be effective.

Christ understood this principle and made it a point to get away both with His disciples

and by Himself from time to time in order to rest and to be rejuvenated. I believe that it

was Jesus way of “recharging” Himself spiritually, physically, and emotionally. Are we

too busy for our own good? In our business, are we actually accomplishing less and

aging more?

• Go home, have dinner, sit back in a comfortable chair or sofa and just relax. Tune out

all the distractions and talk to God for a while. Just let God know how we feel. Listen

for God to respond.

The Voice of Hope 22

Then spend the rest of our day loving on our kids, our spouse, our significant other, or

give a family member a call and tell them how much they mean to us. Go outside and

enjoy this beautiful day that the Lord has made. Let us be glad and rejoice in it.

• Rest and let your soul be rejuvenated! May your spirit echo the words of King David

when he declared: Return to your rest, O my soul, For the Lord has dealt bountifully

with you. Psalm 116:7

Salient points in the sermon, John 6:1-21 on July 29, 2018

• When Jesus goes up the mountain, the crowd follows. He does not turn away those who

seek him. Do we know the pain of rejection, of being unwanted? Have doors ever been

shut in our faces; doors of opportunities? Have windows ever been locked; window of

advancing? Jesus sits waiting to help us. I believe that help is on the way. “Jesus is

tenderly calling thee home….” Imagine the people that Jesus sees coming toward him.

Are they liars, thieves and beggars? Are they murderers and malcontents? I do not

believe that Jesus asks us for our resumes or credentials. When we come to Him, I

believe that Jesus welcomes all who come to him just as we are.

• Even before the people ask for bread, Jesus, the Bread of Life, is making provision for

them. Where does the provision come? A quiet little boy with 2 fish and 5 loaves of

bread shares with Jesus. What happens? Everybody is blessed. No gift is too small for

Jesus. All gifts given to Lord bless the entire body of Christ. What we give to the Lord

is a blessing to all.

• Have we ever been in a situation where we felt so overwhelmed that we could not see a

possible way out? Perhaps we did not have to feed five thousand people with five barley

loaves (the bread that the poorest of the poor ate) and two fishes. But we may have felt

that we were up against the impossible and wondered what God was going to do for us.

• My story is an encouragement and a challenge for our young people. Are there some

similar situations here today? Was there a need for ourselves, a family member, or a

friend that we felt so overwhelmed that we could not see a possible way out? Yet, God

made a way out of no way. God calls us to trust God to supply our needs. God will

provide for our needs not our wants. God knows what God is going to do. Jesus loves

us.

The Voice of Hope 23

Charlies Rodriguez, Vicky Rodriquez, Brenda Vadala, Rudy Pinto, Norman Kalie,

Kathleen Jarrach, Brook Blake, Laura Gelchie, Dan Calik, Micheline Berthaut, Joan

Ojala, Delia Gonzalez, Terry Sullivan, David Evans, Daisy Aleman, Bert Cain, Marian

Zimmerman, Grace Benway, Peggy Vogt, John King, Nino Peterson, Howard Munson,

Dick Woodcock, The John Prell Family, Carmen Faillaci, Tom Jameson, Josephine

Vandermosten, Bette White, Hella Cushing, Thomas Faillaci, Clemmie Vincent, Carole

Arcoleo, Eric Weston, Jean Carroll, Chelsey Olson, Bob Hendertilo, Dolores Hart, Cathy

& Herb Schaus, Inge Brooks, Priscilla Carpenter, Marilyn Wheeler.

Members in Residential Care Inge Brooks-Emerald Health Pricilla Carpenter- The Gardens Grace Benway – Lake Forest Park

Members of Our Armed Forces SPC Cody Allen USA - Afghanistan Master Sgt. John King -USAF Reece Tucker - USMC 2nd Lt. Sierra McCrae – USA Ryan Killing - USAF

The Voice of Hope 24

Kathy Ann’s

8709 South Federal Hwy

Port St. Lucie

The Voice of Hope 25

`

Christine Antczak

Personal Assistant Grocery/Shopping Email & Computer

Light Cleaning Organization

Prescriptions Filing & Paperwork

General Errands Pet Sitting

Home – 772-800-7698 Email -

Cell – 772-302-4362 c.antczak@comcast.net

The Voice of Hope 26

We are asking anyone interested in singing with the CHOIR to please see Karen Keat or any choir member for information. Please come out and sing with us. We will start again in the Fall. Enjoy your summer!

For information please call Karen Keat: 772-237-5363.•

Worship the Lord with gladness. Come before him, singing with joy. (Psalms 100:2)

If you would like to be in the BELL CHOIR, please see

Karen Keat for information.

The Voice of Hope 27

1750 SE Lennard Road, Port St. Lucie, Fl. 34952 772-335-4673 www.hopelutheranpsl.org

Rev. Dr. Earnest E. Tate, Pastor minet49@aol.com

If you do not have an e-mail address or access to online we will gladly mail you

an issue. Please contact the church office.

Click & go to www.hopelutheranpsl.org