This Week at Mt. Olive

Good evening, fellow redeemed!

So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. - James 2:14

These words from St. James have been used and abused for centuries. Usually it's the source of the problem in the passage. You see, reading this problem, if there are no good works, the problem isn't the good works, but the faith that produces them.

Good works are not absolutely necessary for salvation, but good works are necessary. God does expect His people to do good things. This, again, is another source of problems. Sinful people have a habit of dreaming up good works that aren't pleasing to God. Society has a list of good works, and there are all kinds of civic organizations that have guidelines for good works.

Yet, none of these are good works. Good works are those done in faith. The person who believes in Christ will, by the Holy Spirit, desire to do what pleases God. What pleases God? The list is in the Ten Commandments.

This week, take out your Catechism. Review the explanation for each of the Ten Commandments. If you have the chance, look at the Large Catechism section on the Ten Commandments. In these two works, Luther systematizes the teachings of Holy Scripture.

How will your works show your faith this week?

Prayer Concerns:
Lucinda Rodela, Harley Barrow and his family
Arnold Kruger
Those who serve in our armed forces and their families: Rob Vadney (Ft. Campbell), Pastor Dale Brynestad (Austin, Texas)
Ann Cleveland, Ruby Rieder, Burt and Doris Nelson, Walter and Pearly Theiss
The Church as she proclaims the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the world
The Church Council at Mt. Olive as they meet this week

This Week at Mt. Olive:
I will be out of town Monday through Wednesday for the Circuit Counselors Conference. There will be no Junior Confirmation instruction, Wednesday Bible Class, Adult Information, or Why Does It Matter group. If you have an emergency, please call your elder.

Monday, September 10
6 p.m.
Zumba
Board of Education - Overflow

7 p.m.
Church Council

Tuesday, September 11
7 p.m.
LWML Meeting

Wednesday, September 12
8:30 a.m.
School Chapel

Save the Date!
Voters Meeting September 30 between the services.

God bless!
PKJ