Trinity Lutheran Church

ANNOUNCEMENTS 

Graduate Recognition Service Sunday, May 21^st, 9am.  We will honor all our high school graduates on this service.

Ordination for Katie Wagner, Sunday, May 21^st, 3 pm.  Join us as Katie becomes a pastor!  Color of the day is red.  Fellowship time afterwards.  Katie has accepted a call to be pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lake Nebagemon, WI

Boyceville Baccalaureate Service  Sunday, May 21^st, 6 pm, at the High School Gymnatorium.  Sponsored by the Boyceville Area Ministerial Association.

Vacation Bible School, June 5-8, 9 am to Noon.  VBS is open to all youth 4-years old and up.  Games, Crafts, Songs, Snack, and more!  $10 per child.  Registration form on the table in the Narthex.

Help Needed for VBS!  We need snack providers, helpers in the kitchen, and helpers with other VBS activities like leading a short Bible story and crafts.  See the sign-up in the Narthex or talk to PB.

Luther Park is looking for summer staff!  They are looking for college age youth to serve as counselors and other staff.  Go to www.lutherpark.org for an application and more information. 

Don’t forget that you can support Trinity through the Vanco app OR using the donate form on our website.  Download the free app, search for Trinity Lutheran Boyceville, and go from there!

MUSINGS FROM PASTOR BRAD

  Let’s celebrate!  When we gather on Sunday, we will gather in celebration.  We will start by celebrating our 2023 high school graduates as we recognize their accomplishments.  In our celebration, we will ask for God’s blessings upon them as they head out on a new journey of life.  It is a great time to recognize our youth and give thanks to God for the blessings they are! 

  We are celebrating Holy Communion, the gift of the body and blood of Christ that show us the forgiveness, life, and salvation we have in Jesus.  Anytime we gather around the table is a time of celebration, a celebration of our salvation and the grace of God we all receive.  We come to the table as we are, sinners in need of redemption and forgiveness, and we receive that in this holy sacrament. 

  Then we gather at 3 pm to celebrate Katie’s ordination.  An ordination is a worship service in which someone officially becomes a pastor.  Hands are laid upon them, as they were from the first disciples, and promises are made and given as Katie fulfills her call to rostered ordained ministry.  It is not just a celebration of Katie, though that is incredibly important.  It is a celebration of the church as a whole, as pastors and others from our Synod gather together.  It is a celebration of the church as we lift up and give thanks for everyone’s vocation in the church, for we all have a call to serve the Lord in our own way.  An ordination is a rare thing, so I hope that you will be there with your red on, celebrating Katie’s call and the church’s vocation.

  Finally, at 6 pm, we gather at the Middle School for our annual Baccalaureate service.  Not only is this a celebration of our graduates, but it is a celebration of our community.  A chance to come together as church’s, connected by a shared faith in Jesus Christ, to lift up each other and our young people.  We don’t have these sorts of ecumenical celebrations often, so they are pretty special when we do. 

  No matter what, Sunday is a day of celebration.  I hope to see you in some way at any of the celebrations.  Most importantly, I hope that you will celebrate every day the love and grace you receive in Jesus Christ. 

. 

Website: www.trinityboyceville.com

YouTube: www.youtube.com/TrinityBoycevilleWI Facebook: www.facebook.com/trinityboyceville

ANNOUNCEMENTS 

Lagers with the Lord Monday, May 15^th,  6:00 pm at Buckshot’s.  Join us for some time of Bible study and faith conversation.  All are welcome!

Graduate Recognition Service Sunday, May 21^st, 9am.  We will honor all our high school graduates on this service.

Ordination for Katie Wagner, Sunday, May 21^st, 3 pm.  Join us as Katie becomes a pastor!  Color of the day is red.  Fellowship time afterwards.  Katie has accepted a call to be pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lake Nebagemon, WI

Boyceville Baccalaureate Service  Sunday, May 21^st, 6 pm, at the High School Gymatorium.  Sponsored by the Boyceville Area Ministerial Association.

Vacation Bible School, June 5-8, 9 am to Noon.  VBS is open to all youth 4-years old and up.  Games, Crafts, Songs, Snack, and more!  $10 per child.  Registration form on the table in the Narthex.

Help Needed for VBS!  We need snack providers, helpers in the kitchen, and helpers with other VBS activities like leading a short Bible story and crafts.  See the sign-up in the Narthex or talk to PB.

Luther Park is looking for summer staff!  They are looking for college age youth to serve as counselors and other staff.  Go to www.lutherpark.org for an application and more information. 

Don’t forget that you can support Trinity through the Vanco app OR using the donate form on our website.  Download the free app, search for Trinity Lutheran Boyceville, and go from there!

MUSINGS FROM PASTOR BRAD

  Today, we had a wonderful worship service as the Men’s Band played, we had communion, a wonderful Smelt Feed, and a baptism.  There was a fun moment in the baptism.  As I was baptizing the beautiful baby, who was staring right at me, she reached out and grabbed my cross that is around my neck.  After putting water on her head, her Dad lifted her up and she held onto that cross, until I had to pry it away from her. 

   There is something in the act of that beautiful child.  We cling to the cross of Christ.  We cling to the cross for hope, forgiveness, and promise, the promise of eternal life.  We cling to the cross in the midst of our suffering and pain, in our despair and anxiety.  We cling to the cross because the cross of Christ is our life.  It is our salvation. It is the thing we can rely on when all else seems lost, when everything else seems to be slipping away.  It is the power of God for us.

  In life, we can sometimes feel like we have nothing to hold onto.  Life can seem fleeting, unstable, and unpredictable.  We need something that we can count, something that gives us strength.  That thing is the cross of Christ.  It is not a stumbling block for us.  It is the power of God  It is hope for in that sin is defeated, death is defeated, the devil is defeated.  This cross is a sign of God’s love for us, something you can always count on and always trust.

  May you, like that sweet baby today, cling to the cross.  May it give you hope and comfort and may you know every moment that you are loved and cared for by your Savior Jesus Christ. 

Website: www.trinityboyceville.com

YouTube: www.youtube.com/TrinityBoycevilleWI

Facebook: www.facebook.com/trinityboyceville

ANNOUNCEMENTS 

Men’s Band Worship, May 7^th, 9 am.

Smelt Feed, May 7^th, 10 am till 11:30 am.  Smelt, meatballs, cole slaw, baked beans, chips, dessert.  Free will offering taken to benefit Trinity Missions.  Served by Men in Mission

Workers needed for the Smelt Feed.  See the sign-up on the table in the Narthex.

Lagers with the Lord Monday, May 15^th,  6:00 pm at Buckshot’s.  Join us for some time of Bible study and faith conversation.  All are welcome!

Graduate Recognition Service Sunday, May 21^st, 9am.  We will honor all our high school graduates on this service.

Boyceville Baccalaureate Service  Sunday, May 21^st, 6 pm, at the High School Gymnatorium.  Sponsored by the Boyceville Area Ministerial Association.

Vacation Bible School, June 5-8, 9 am to Noon.  VBS is open to all youth 4-years old and up.  Games, Crafts, Songs, Snack, and more!  $10 per child.  Registration form on the table in the Narthex.

Help Needed for VBS!  We need snack providers, helpers in the kitchen, and helpers with other VBS activities like leading a short Bible story and crafts.  See the sign-up in the Narthex or talk to PB.

Lagers with the Lord, Monday, May 15^th, 6 pm.  Held at Buckshots.  All are welcome to join us for this Bible study and faith discussion!

Luther Park is looking for summer staff!  They are looking for college age youth to serve as counselors and other staff.  Go to www.lutherpark.org for an application and more information. 

Don’t forget that you can support Trinity through the Vanco app OR using the donate form on our website.  Download the free app, search for Trinity Lutheran Boyceville, and go from there!

MUSINGS FROM PASTOR BRAD

  Yesterday was the annual Synod Assembly (special thanks to Bill & Julie Fisher for representing Trinity) but I must admit it isn’t my favorite event of the year.  Sometimes the discussions are necessary but super boring or frustrating.  The church was super hot so I felt like I was in a sauna.  I always think it can be done quicker and more efficient.  But there are two things I enjoy about Synod Assembly.

  The first is that I get to see so many of my colleagues and other lay people I have met in my various roles over the years.  It is good to catch up, to tease each other, to have a quick five minute conversation just catching up on life.  For some of us, it might be the only time we see each other all year so it is a little like going to Homecoming back at your high school.  You just catch up with a ton of people. 

   The second is that I’m always reminded of how big the church can be and how we often take the church with us.  Have you ever thought that you take the church with you?  As a disciple of Jesus Christ, you take Jesus with you into all areas of your life. And since Christ is the head of the church, that means you bring the church with you.  The church goes where you go. 

  I talk with our youth about this, about how when they go to camp or on a mission trip they bring all of Trinity with them, representing them wherever they go.  But one thing I like about thinking of how the church goes with us wherever we go is that means we are not alone.  No matter what arena of life we are in, like our job, community activities, family gatherings, even trips to the grocery store, the church goes with us.  Supporting us.  Reminding us of the love of Jesus Christ.  Showing us that we are connected to something greater than ourselves. 

  Because that is what the church does: it shows us that we are connected to something greater than ourselves.  We are connected and joined with other disciples of Jesus Christ across the world.  Which means we always have a place, we always have support, we always can be strengthened in faith, hope, and love.  Synod Assembly can be incredibly boring but it can also be incredibly moving, for it reminds me of the wider church and how much awesomeness there is going on in this thing we call church.

  May the Lord continue to bless our congregation, our Synod and denomination, and the church universal across the globe.  And maybe next year I won’t lose ten pounds in sweat at Synod Assembly!  May God bless you today and always!

Website: www.trinityboyceville.com

YouTube: www.youtube.com/TrinityBoycevilleWI

Facebook: www.facebook.com/trinityboyceville

ANNOUNCEMENTS 

Cross Generational Worship service, Sunday, April 30^th.

Bring your household items and clothes to Trinity in April  Every Saturday in April, from 9 am till Noon, we are collecting items as a fundraiser for the Women of Trinity.  All items should be clean and in good condition.  Place clothes and shoes in a trash bag and all other items in boxes. Thank you for supporting the Women of Trinity!

Men’s Band Worship, May 7^th, 9 am.

Smelt Feed, May 7^th, 10 am till 11:30 am.  Smelt, meatballs, coleslaw, baked beans, chips, dessert.  Free will offering taken to benefit Trinity Missions.  Served by Men in Mission

Workers needed for the Smelt Feed.  See the sign-up on the table in the Narthex.

Lagers with the Lord Monday, May 15^th,  6:00 pm at Buckshot’s.  Join us for some time of Bible study and faith conversation.  All are welcome!

Luther Park is looking for summer staff!  They are looking for college age youth to serve as counselors and other staff.  Go to www.lutherpark.org for an application and more information. 

Don’t forget that you can support Trinity through the Vanco app OR using the donate form on our website.  Download the free app, search for Trinity Lutheran Boyceville, and go from there!

MUSINGS FROM PASTOR BRAD

   I believe I’ve shared this story before, but it came into my head after my nap this afternoon and I thought I would share it with you again.  It always packs a punch!  PB

  TABLE FOR TWO

He sits by himself at a table for two.

The uniformed waiter returns to his side and asks, “Would you like to go ahead and order, sir?” The man has, after all, been waiting since seven o’clock–almost two hours.

“No, thank you,” the man smiles. “I’ll wait for her a while longer. How about some more coffee?”

“Certainly, sir.”

The man sits, his clear blue eyes gazing straight through the flowered centerpiece. He fingers his napkin, allowing the sounds of light chatter, tinkling silverware, and mellow music to fill his mind. He is dressed in a sport coat and tie. His dark brown hair is neatly combed, but one stray lock insists on dropping to his forehead. The scent of his cologne adds to his clean-cut image. He is dressed up enough to make a companion feel important, respected, loved. Yet he is not so formal as to make one uncomfortable. It seems that he has taken every precaution to make others feel at ease with him.

Still, he sits alone.

The waiter returns to fill the man’s coffee cup. “Is there anything else I can get for you, sir?”

“No, thank you.”

The waiter remains standing at the table. Something tugs at his curiosity.

“I don’t mean to pry, but…” His voice trails off. This line of conversation could jeopardize his tip.

“Go ahead,” the man encourages. He is strong, yet sensitive, inviting conversation.

“Why do you bother waiting for her?” the waiter finally blurts out. This man has been at the restaurant many other evenings, always patiently alone.

Says the man quietly, “Because she needs me.”

“Are you sure?”

“Oh Yes. I’m very positive of that.”

“Well, sir, no offense, but assuming that she needs you, she sure isn’t acting much like it. She’s stood you up three times just this week alone.”

The man winces, and looks down at the table. “Yes, I know.”

“Then why do you still come here and wait?”

“Cassie said that she would be here.”

“She’s said that before,” the waiter protests. “I wouldn’t put up with it. Why do you?”

Now the man looks up, smiles at the waiter, and says simply, “Because I love her.”

The waiter walks away, wondering how one could love a girl who stands him up three times in one week alone. The man must be crazy, he decides. Either that or he must really love that girl. Across the room, he turns to look at the man again. The man slowly pours cream into his coffee. He twirls his spoon between his fingers a few times before stirring sweetener into his cup. After staring for a moment into the liquid, the man brings the cup to his mouth and sips, silently watching those around him. He doesn’t look crazy, the waiter admits. Maybe the girl has qualities that I don’t know about. Or maybe the man’s love is stronger than most. That’s probably it. This guy must be so much in love with her he can’t even see straight. The waiter shakes himself out of his musings to take an order from a party of five.

The man watches the waiter, and wonders if he’s ever been stood up. The man has. Many, many times. But he still can’t get used to it. Each time, it hurts. He’s looked forward to this evening all day. He has many things, exciting things, to tell Cassie. He loves her so much and so deeply. But, more importantly, he wants to hear Cassie’s voice. He wants her to tell him all about her day, her triumphs, her defeats….anything, really. He has tried so many times to show Cassie how much he loves her. He’d just like to know that she cares for him, too. He sips sporadically at the coffee, and loses himself in thought, knowing that Cassie is late, but still hoping that she will arrive.

The clock says nine-thirty when the waiter returns to the man’s table. “Is there anything I can get for you?”

The still empty chair stabs at the man. “No, I think that will be all for the night. May I have the check please?”

“Yes, sir.”

When the waiter leaves, the man picks up the check. He pulls out his wallet and sighs. He has enough to have given Cassie a feast. He takes out enough money to pay for his five cups of coffee and the tip. Why do you do this, Cassie?” His mind cries as he gets up from the table.

“Good-bye,” the waiter says, as the man walks towards the door.

“Good night. Thank you for your service.”

You’re welcome, sir,” says the waiter softly, for he sees the hurt in the man’s eyes that his smile doesn’t even begin to hide.

The man passes a laughing young couple on his way out and his eyes glisten as he thinks of the good time he and Cassie could have had. He stops at the front and makes reservations for tomorrow. Maybe Cassie will be able to make it, he thinks. Oh, I do hope so.

“Seven o’clock tomorrow for party of two?” the hostess confirms.

“That’s right,” the man replies.

“Do you think she’ll come?” asks the hostess. She doesn’t mean to be rude, but she has watched the man many times alone at his table for two.

“Someday, yes. And I will be waiting for her.”

The man buttons his overcoat and walks out of the restaurant, alone. His shoulders are hunched, but through the windows the hostess can only guess whether they are hunched against the wind or against the man’s hurt.

As the man turns toward home, Cassie turns in bed. She is tired after an evening out with friends. As she reaches toward her night stand to set the alarm, she sees the note that she scribbled to herself last night.

“7:00,” it says. “Spend some time in prayer.”

Darn, she thinks. She forgot again. She feels a twinge of guilt, but quickly pushes it aside. She needed that time with her friends. And now she needs her sleep. She can pray tomorrow night.

Jesus will forgive her. And she’s sure he doesn’t mind.

(Kirsten Burgess)

Website: www.trinityboyceville.com

YouTube: www.youtube.com/TrinityBoycevilleWI

Facebook: www.facebook.com/trinityboyceville

ANNOUNCEMENTS 

New Member Class today at 6 pm

Crew is on April 19th at 3:30 pm for all for all 3^rd-6^th graders! It will be the last Crew till September!  Crew will sing in church at worship at 6:30 pm

Spaghetti Meal, April 19^th, 5:15 pm till 6:30 pm.

Bring your household items and clothes to Trinity in April  Every Saturday in April, from 9 am till Noon, we are collecting items as a fundraiser for the Women of Trinity.  All items should be clean and in good condition.  Place clothes and shoes in a trash bag and all other items in boxes. Thank you for supporting the Women of Trinity!

Cross Generational Worship service, Sunday, April 30^th.

Lagers with the Lord Monday, May 15^th,  6:00 pm at Buckshot’s.  Join us for some time of Bible study and faith conversation.  All are welcome!

Luther Park is looking for summer staff!  They are looking for college age youth to serve as counselors and other staff.  Go to www.lutherpark.org for an application and more information. 

Men’s Band Worship, May 7^th, 9 am.

Smelt Feed, May 7^th, 10 am till 11:30 am.  Smelt, meatballs, cole slaw, baked beans, chips, dessert.  Free will offering taken to benefit Trinity Missions.  Served by Men in Mission

Workers needed for the Smelt Feed.  See the sign-up on the table in the Narthex.

Don’t forget that you can support Trinity through the Vanco app OR using the donate form on our website.  Download the free app, search for Trinity Lutheran Boyceville, and go from there!

MUSINGS FROM PASTOR BRAD

  Would you like to be known throughout history for the worst thing you have ever done?  That whenever anyone said your name, it would be associated with your biggest mistake and always in a negative context.  That is what has happened to the disciple named Thomas.  Thomas is known in history as “Doubting Thomas,” all because he was not present when Jesus showed up after his resurrection to the disciples.  It is actually reasonable that Thomas would be skeptical of the story of his brothers. And so, throughout history, he is known for his moment of doubt.

  But here is the thing: he was very much not a “doubting Thomas” prior to this.  He was very faithful, even encouraging his fellow disciples to follow Jesus even to the point of death.  Thomas was a faithful disciple who is known in tradition to have taken the Gospel to India.  But he is known by this one thing, doubting Jesus had risen.  He is known for the worst thing he had ever done. 

  We are not remembered by Jesus for the worst thing we have ever done.  Rather, our Savior Jesus Christ forgives us of our sin and brings us to new life, restoring us.  Our sin is forgotten and we are made clean.  We are given a new chance, a chance to change what we are known for.  Not for the worst thing, but for the amazing thing that has been done for us in Jesus Christ.  A chance to make our history different, to begin anew when we misstep or go the wrong way. 

  At the same time, don’t define yourself by your worst mistake.  Rather, remember in Christ you always have a second chance.  Remember that you are loved not by what you have done but by what Christ has done for you.  In the Lord, we always have a chance, we can always begin again, we are always forgiven and restored by our gracious Savior.  For that we can say, “Thanks be to God!” 

Website: www.trinityboyceville.com

YouTube: www.youtube.com/TrinityBoycevilleWI

Facebook: www.facebook.com/trinityboyceville

ANNOUNCEMENTS 

Palm Sunday Y0uth Service, TODAY, April 2^nd, 9 am.

Maundy Thursday Worship, April 6, 6:30 pm.

Good Friday Worship, April 7^th, Noon & 6:30 pm.

Easter Sunday Worship, April 9^th, 6:30 am and 9:00 am.

Easter Breakfast served by Confirmation Youth, April 9, 7:30 am  French Toast, Sausage, Fresh Fruit, Pastries, Beverage, Free-will offering taken.

No Worship this Wednesday

Lagers with the Lord Monday, April 10^th,  6:00 pm at Buckshot’s.  Join us for some time of Bible study and faith conversation.  All are welcome!

Luther Park is looking for summer staff!  They are looking for college age youth to serve as counselors and other staff.  Go to www.lutherpark.org for an application and more information. 

Bring your household items and clothes to Trinity in April  Every Saturday in April, from 9 am till Noon, we are collecting items as a fundraiser for the Women of Trinity.  All items should be clean and in good condition.  Place clothes and shoes in a trash bag and all other items in boxes. Thank you for supporting the Women of Trinity!

Crew is on April 19th at 3:30 pm for all for all 3^rd-6^th graders! It will be the last Crew till September!  Crew will sing in church at worship at 6:30 pm

Spaghetti Meal, April 19^th, 5:15 pm till 6:30 pm.

Don’t forget that you can support Trinity through the Vanco app OR using the donate form on our website.  Download the free app, search for Trinity Lutheran Boyceville, and go from there!

MUSINGS FROM PASTOR BRAD

  Thursday was opening day of the Major League Baseball season, a day I always enjoy, and I was listening to the Cubs face the Brewers at Wrigley Field (a 4-0 Cubs win, fyi.  Might be our only one of the year), when the top of the 7^th inning ended. You know what that means: 7^th inning stretch time and the singing of “Take Me Out to the Ballgame.”  I was in my car at the corner (it was crossing guard time), as a soon to be inducted into the Hall of Fame Cubs broadcaster Pat Hughes led the singing, I sang along too.  Loud.  Joyful.  Beautiful.

  And then something weird happened.  I got teary eyed.  That’s right.  I had a few small tears run down my cheek.  Why was I so emotional?  Yes, I have a very emotional connection to my Cubs, but it normally comes out when I’m at Wrigley Field, not at the corner of Nordveien Dr. & Highway 79.  What was going on?

   And then I thought about it.  Thought about it some more.  Still thinking as the game ended (Cubs win!  Holy Cow!).  Then it came to me.  Opening Day has always been associated with the new.  With hope.  As they even said on the broadcast, when the season starts, your team is always in first place.  There is promise at the start of a baseball season, of endless possibilities, of hope, hope that this will be the year your team wins it all.  It is a new beginning.

  At the end of this week, it is Easter Sunday.  Also a day of hope, of possibility, of the new beginning that is given us every day through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has freed us from sin and death.  Because Jesus lives, we live.  Because Jesus lives, we have hope.  Because Jesus lives, we rest our lives on the promise of eternal life.  Because Jesus lives, we wake up every day knowing that we are loved, forgiven, saved, and with a new beginning. 

  So that is why I teared up.  I remembered the joy of possibility.  The joy of hope.  A hope needed as a world hurts from violence, torn apart my political strife, devasted by natural disaster, crushed by suffering.  But it is not defeated because Christ is victorious over sin and death by his resurrection from the dead.  We need a new beginning, a new hope (Star Wars reference!), a new joy.  And we have it in Jesus Christ and the blessings we receive every day, both the big and the small.  Even the joy of a baseball game.

  Happy Easter and may God bless you today and always!    

Website: www.trinityboyceville.com

YouTube: www.youtube.com/TrinityBoycevilleWI Facebook: www.facebook.com/trinityboyceville

ANNOUNCEMENTS 

Last Lent Wednesday Worship, 6:30 pm.  Service is Holden Evening Prayer.  Topic: “Walking with the Shepherd: Salvation”

Brat & Hot Dog Meal served by Church Council,  Wednesday, March 22, 5:30 pm.

Crew is on March 29 at 3:30 pm for all for all 3^rd-6^th graders!

Palm Sunday Youth Service, April 2^nd, 9 am.

Maundy Thursday Worship, April 6, 6:30 pm.

Good Friday Worship, April 7^th, Noon & 6:30 pm.

Easter Sunday Worship, April 9^th, 6:30 am and 9:00 am.

Easter Breakfast served by Confirmation Youth, April 9, 7:30 am  French Toast, Sausage, Fresh Fruit, Pastries, Beverage, Free-will offering taken.

Lagers with the Lord Monday, April 10^th,  6:00 pm at Buckshot’s.  Join us for some time of Bible study and faith conversation.  All are welcome!

Luther Park is looking for summer staff!  They are looking for college age youth to serve as counselors and other staff.  Go to www.lutherpark.org for an application and more information. 

Bring your household items and clothes to Trinity in April  Every Saturday in April, from 9 am till Noon, we are collecting items as a fundraiser for the Women of Trinity.  All items should be clean and in good condition.  Place clothes and shoes in a trash bag and all other items in boxes. Thank you for supporting the Women of Trinity!

Don’t forget that you can support Trinity through the Vanco app OR using the donate form on our website.  Download the free app, search for Trinity Lutheran Boyceville, and go from there!

MUSINGS FROM PASTOR BRAD

  Sometimes kids say the darndest things.  The other day, two youth were coming up to my corner after school, and they were both limping.  I asked them what was going on, and one said that they were just practicing their fake limp (kids. I tell you).  The other said that they were broken.  I asked what was broken.  And they said, “I’m broken cuz I’m broken.”  And I thought to myself: whoa.  That is deep. Kids.  I tell you. 

  “I’m broken cuz I’m broken.”  We are broken people.  Broken by sin, by suffering, by grief, by anxiety and worry and a million other things.  But the thing is we so often hide our brokenness.  We are ashamed of our brokenness and we often want to hide it.  When someone asks us how we are doing, we often respond with “fine.”  Why do we do that?  We tell ourselves a lot reasons why.  We don’t want to make the other person uncomfortable.  It isn’t anyone else’s businesses but our own.  No one really cares what is going on with us and they are just being polite.  We might get rejected if we tell the truth.  No matter what any of these are, we hide our brokenness or we aren’t ready to admit it.

  However, what if when we shared how we were really doing, might we find comfort?  Or acceptance?  Or understanding?  Or a connection with someone who might feel broken just like us?  We are full of pride and that can get in the way.  I know it has for me at times when I have felt broken.  When I have been unwilling to share the truth that I’m broken cuz I’m broken.  Where I feel a need to present a joyful and happy face at all times instead of allowing myself to be broken in front of others. 

  We are broken cuz we are broken.  But we are also loved because we are broken.  As it says in Psalm 34:18, “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and saves the crushed in spirit.” Our Lord knows our brokenness and why we are broken.  But our Lord also puts us back together, heals us, strengthens us, and loves us.  Loves us even in our brokenness.  Loves us in the midst of our pain.  Loves us always.  As it says in Psalm 147:3, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”

  Even better, I firmly believe the Lord brings people into our lives who show us that we are loved despite our brokenness.  Who accept us for who we are.  Who support us in the midst of our trials and pain and who walk beside us, just as the Lord does.

  Maybe the first step is to admit our brokenness.  To not be ashamed of it.  To be with ok saying we aren’t fine when people ask.  And then, to remember the loving grace of Jesus Christ, who offers to carry our burdens.    Who loves us, broken and all.  And who restores us by defeating sin, death, and the devil on the cross for us.  You are loved by God no matter what.  Broken pieces and all. 

  May God bless you today and always.  

Website: www.trinityboyceville.com

YouTube: www.youtube.com/TrinityBoycevilleWI

Facebook: www.facebook.com/trinityboyceville

ANNOUNCEMENTS 

Lent Wednesday Worship, 6:30 pm.  Service is Holden Evening Prayer.  Topic: “Walking with the Shepherd: Blessing”

Homemade Soup Meal served by the Mission Trip Youth,  Wednesday, March 22, 5:30 pm.

Easter Lily orders are due on Sunday, March 26^th!  Form is attached. 

Crew is on March 29 at 3:30 pm for all for all 3^rd-6^th graders!

Luther Park is looking for summer staff!  They are looking for college age youth to serve as counselors and other staff.  Go to www.lutherpark.org for an application and more information. 

Butter Braid Sales  February 22^nd through March 22^nd.  Help support our youth by purchasing a Butter Braid!  Confirmation youth will have forms that you can sign or you can go online.  Click the link, select a seller, and go from there!  https://store.myfundraisingplace.com/e857f260-55a0-4175-8e04-b606cc82ec5e ENDS THIS WEDNESDAY!

Reminder that Easter Lily orders are due on March 26.  You can get a form in the Trinity Good News at www.trinityboyceville.com

Palm Sunday Y0uth Service, April 2^nd, 9 am.

Maundy Thursday Worship, April 6, 6:30 pm.

Good Friday Worship, April 7^th, Noon & 6:30 pm.

Easter Sunday Worship, April 9^th, 6:30 am and 9:00 am.

Easter Breakfast served by Confirmation Youth, April 9, 7:30 am  French Toast, Sausage, Fresh Fruit, Pastries, Beverage, Free-will offering taken.

Lagers with the Lord Monday, April 10^th,  6:00 pm at Buckshot’s.  Join us for some time of Bible study and faith conversation.  All are welcome!

Bring your household items and clothes to Trinity in April  Every Saturday in April, from 9 am till Noon, we are collecting items as a fundraiser for the Women of Trinity.  All items should be clean and in good condition.  Place clothes and shoes in a trash bag and all other items in boxes. Thank you for supporting the Women of Trinity!

Don’t forget that you can support Trinity through the Vanco app OR using the donate form on our website.  Download the free app, search for Trinity Lutheran Boyceville, and go from there!

MUSINGS FROM PASTOR BRAD

  We are in the midst of the NCAA Basketball Tournaments, both Men and Women, and my favorite part of the tournament are the upsets.  We have had some huge ones on the Men’s side, as a number 1 seed went down for only the second time ever and a number 2 seed got beat, along with a favorite like Duke.  I love cheering for the upsets, even if it means my bracket gets busted and I finish last in my pool.  The excitement, the unexpectedness of it, is crazy.  Even in the NCAA Wrestling Tournament there was a major upset as a guy going for his 4^th career title got pinned at the last second in the semifinals.  March Madness indeed!  It is fun to cheer for the underdog.

  Of course, when an underdog does in, we might here them talking about a David taking down a Goliath, a reference to the Biblical story of David, a shepherd, defeating the great Philistine warrior Goliath with his slingshot.  But the cool thing about David’s story, who will not only become a great king of Israel but is also an ancestor of Jesus, is that his underdog story starts long before he meets Goliath. 

  The prophet Samuel has been sent to David’s father Jesse to anoint a new king, as God has moved on from the previous king, Saul.  Jesse has eight sons, including David, and when Samuel sees the first, who is tall and strong, and he thinks that is who God will choose.  But God says, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for the Lord does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7  Even at the start, David is an underdog.  And he isn’t even there!  He is out caring for the sheep.

  But the Lord rejects the other seven sons, David is brought to Samuel, and is anointed.  After this he will defeat Goliath, be on the run from Saul who keeps trying to kill him, and eventually become king.  An underdog who becomes king.  It is reminder that it is not what is on the outside that counts, but what is on the inside.  Too often we judge based on the things of this world and not on the heart.  God chooses us to be God’s hands and feet in the world not because we look the part but because of our faithfulness.  Even more so, God is with us.  David defeats Goliath not on his own.  The Lord is him.  And the Lord is with you.

  I don’t know if any of the underdog stories of the NCAA tournament will become champion, but I do know that there stories are reminders that amazing things can happen.  What I do know is that we have the ultimate victory, a victory over sin and death, a victory that we did not earn but was given by our loving God through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  May we never count anyone out and look upon their heart, seeing what the Lord sees in those the world so often dismisses.  May the Lord bless you today and always!

Website: www.trinityboyceville.com

YouTube: www.youtube.com/TrinityBoycevilleWI Facebook: www.facebook.com/trinityboyceville

ANNOUNCEMENTS 

Lent Wednesday Worship, 6:30 pm.  Service is Holden Evening Prayer.  Topic: “Walking with the Shepherd: Comfort”

Spaghetti Meal served by Trinity Men, Wednesday, March 8, 5:30 pm.

Crew is on March 15 at 3:30 pm for all for all 3^rd-6^th graders!

Luther Park is looking for summer staff!  They are looking for college age youth to serve as counselors and other staff.  Go to www.lutherpark.org for an application and more information. 

Butter Braid Sales  February 22^nd through March 22^nd.  Help support our youth by purchasing a Butter Braid!  Confirmation youth will have forms that you can sign or you can go online.  Click the link, select a seller, and go from there!  https://store.myfundraisingplace.com/e857f260-55a0-4175-8e04-b606cc82ec5e

Lagers with the Lord Monday, March 13^th, 6:00 pm at Buckshot’s.  Join us for some time of Bible study and faith conversation.  All are welcome!

High School Lock-In  March 17, 6 pm till March 18 at 7 am.  Friends welcome. Bring a snack to share.  Need  help for the Scavenger Hunt for Hunger to drive from 6:30 pm till 7:30 pm. See sign-up in the Narthex or talk to Pastor Brad

Reminder that Easter Lily orders are due on March 26.  You can get a form in the Trinity Good News at www.trinityboyceville.com

Bring your household items and clothes to Trinity in April  Every Saturday in April, from 9 am till Noon, we are collecting items as a fundraiser for the Women of Trinity.  All items should be clean and in good condition.  Place clothes and shoes in a trash bag and all other items in boxes. Thank you for supporting the Women of Trinity!

Don’t forget that you can support Trinity through the Vanco app OR using the donate form on our website.  Download the free app, search for Trinity Lutheran Boyceville, and go from there!

MUSINGS FROM PASTOR BRAD

  There are some things that I never get tired of.  I never get tired of Amy’s laugh or how cute Kapono looks when she is sleeping.  I never get tired of the awesome feeling of hitting a golf ball flush or watching the Empire Strikes Back.  I never get tired of feeling awe when I walk into Wrigley Field or the taste of crispy bacon.  I never get tired of hearing the boys in the Men’s Band harmonizing. There are just somethings that I experience on a regular basis that I never get tired of.

  I also never get tired at how amazing the following verse from Romans is.  It is Romans 5:8, “⁸But God proves his love for us in that while we still were sinners Christ died for us.”  Every time I hear it, I kind of freak out.  I freak out because I can’t believe that God loves us so much that God sends Jesus to die for us.  I freak out because if that isn’t enough, Christ dies for us SINNERS!  I could wrap my head around Jesus giving his life to people who are righteous, who are perfect, who do nothing wrong.  But it still blows my mind that Jesus goes to the cross for us sinners.  For us who make mistakes.  Who do dumb stuff.  Who absolutely fail. 

   This is such radical love that I sometimes can’t believe it.  That Christ dies for us sinners, dies to show us that God loves us.  This is grace, what God does for us, saving us not because we have earned it or because we are perfect, but out of love. Freely given.  For you.

  It is just amazing.  And I never get tired of hearing it.  I need to hear it.  It brings me hope, restores my faith, strengthens me in my calling, and guides me in life.  Christ dies for us, sinners, as an act of God’s love.  I hope to never take it for granted, just like I never want to take for granted all the examples I gave above.  They are incredible gifts that I cherish and I will never get tired of.

  May God bless you today and always!

Website: www.trinityboyceville.com

YouTube: www.youtube.com/TrinityBoycevilleWI

Facebook: www.facebook.com/trinityboyceville

March 6, 2023

ANNOUNCEMENTS 

Lent Wednesday Worship, 6:30 pm.  Service is Holden Evening Prayer.  Topic: “Walking with the Shepherd: Restoration”

Baked Potato Meal served by Confirmation Youth, Wednesday, March 8, 5:30 pm.

Crew is on March 15 at 3:30 pm for all for all 3^rd-6^th graders!

Come join us to help clean the brass and  the sacristy on Wednesday, March 29th, starting at 9:00 a.m. 

Luther Park is looking for summer staff!  They are looking for college age youth to serve as counselors and other staff.  Go to www.lutherpark.org for an application and more information. 

Butter Braid Sales  February 22^nd through March 22^nd.  Help support our youth by purchasing a Butter Braid!  Confirmation youth will have forms that you can sign or you can go online.  Click the link, select a seller, and go from there!  https://store.myfundraisingplace.com/e857f260-55a0-4175-8e04-b606cc82ec5e

Lagers with the Lord Monday, March 13^th, 6:00 pm at Buckshot’s.  Join us for some time of Bible study and faith conversation.  All are welcome!

High School Lock-In  March 17, 6 pm till March 18 at 7 am.  Friends welcome. Bring a snack to share.  Need parent help for the Scavenger Hunt for Hunger to drive from 6:30 pm till 7:30 pm. See sign-up in the Narthex or talk to Pastor Brad

Bring your household items and clothes to Trinity in April  Every Saturday in April, from 9 am till Noon, we are collecting items as a fundraiser for the Women of Trinity.  All items should be clean and in good condition.  Place clothes and shoes in a trash bag and all other items in boxes. Thank you for supporting the Women of Trinity!

Don’t forget that you can support Trinity through the Vanco app OR using the donate form on our website.  Download the free app, search for Trinity Lutheran Boyceville, and go from there!

MUSINGS FROM PASTOR BRAD

   When we do a Children’s Sermon, we have a tradition at the end that the kids give me a high five and each youth gets two pieces of candy, one to keep and one to share.  I stole the candy thing from Pastor Heather Kistner and it has been our tradition for many years.  The kids are usually very good about taking their two, even if they rifle through the entire candy box looking their favorite pieces. 

  Recently, we have had a new youth that comes up for the children’s sermon, an incredibly cute and very young girl.  She comes up with her brother and is just one of the most adorable things ever.  But when it comes time to get her two pieces of candy, let’s say that she often does NOT stop at two.  She might grab five, or six, or ten, or as many as she can fit into her little hands. 

  Now, mind you, I have tried to limit the number of candy that she takes.  Her brother tries to stop her.  Her parents talk with her before the service and before the children’s sermon about only taking two.  They say she understands.  But then she just completely ignores them (and me) and takes what she wants.  I don’t have the heart to really stop her and I figure she doesn’t quite understand but will eventually.

  Or maybe she does understand.  Because as I start the sermon, I see her, walking around the back of the church, handing out candy.  I’m not even sure she keeps anything for herself (I assume she does), but it looks to me like she hands out more than she keeps.  It is so incredibly cute that I can’t help but chuckle when I see it.  But it also means that she understands the lesson we are trying to teach the kids with the handing out of the candy: that is not just about receiving, it is about giving.

  Everything we have in this life is a gift from God.  And God calls us to take those gifts and not only use them for our own needs but for the sake of our neighbor and God’s ministry in the world.  Our ministry does not exist without you taking the gifts of time, talents, and financial resources and giving them in faithful response to what God in Christ Jesus has done for you.  At the same time, we give of those gifts to our partner organizations to serve the poor and support other ministries, like Luther Park.  We receive and we give.  Our cute girl that takes too much candy does the same and teaches us all a lesson about generosity.  She gives with joy. 

  My hope is that we would have similar joyful hearts as we give of what we have been given for the sake of the Lord.  Using our gifts and resources to help those in need, to keep our ministry strong and vibrant.  Lent is a time when we remember to be generous as an act of faith for the salvation we have received in Jesus Christ. 

   I look forward to seeing that little girl, collecting candy during the children’s sermon and handing it out to people in the church.  And I look forward to seeing the fruits your generosity produces in our ministry and in the lives of others.  May you be blessed with cheerful and generous hearts and give thanks for all that God has blessed you with. 

Website: www.trinityboyceville.com

YouTube: www.youtube.com/TrinityBoycevilleWI

Facebook: www.facebook.com/trinityboyceville