5 Day Sermon Devotion

Pastor Paul Dancy • January 20, 2025

Sermon "When Things Go Wrong" by Pastor Paul Dancy

Day 1: God's Abundant Provision

Reading: John 2:1-11

Devotional: Just as Jesus turned water into wine at the wedding in Cana, God often provides for us in ways that exceed our expectations, but not always in the way we expect. Reflect on times when God has surprised you in your life. How can you cultivate a heart of gratitude for both the small and large blessings you've been given? Today, practice seeing God's abundant provision in the everyday moments, trusting that He cares about every detail of your life.


Day 2: Obedience in Faith

Reading: 2 Kings 5:1-14

Devotional: Naaman's healing came through an act of obedience that seemed foolish at first. Similarly, Mary instructed the servants at the wedding to "do whatever he [Jesus] tells you." Consider areas in your life where God may be calling you to step out in faith, even if it doesn't make sense. How can you cultivate a spirit of obedience to God's Word, even when it challenges your understanding? Remember to be IN the Word as you are praying for direction. Pray also for the courage to trust and obey God's direction in your life.


Day 3: Christ's Presence in Our Struggles

Reading: John 11:1-44

Devotional: Jesus' response to Lazarus' death reminds us that He is present and active in our darkest moments. Think about a challenging situation you're facing right now. How might Jesus be working behind the scenes, even if you can't see it yet? Take time to invite Christ into your struggles, trusting that His timing and methods, though sometimes mysterious, are always perfect.


Day 4: The Power of Christ's Sacraments

Reading: 1 Corinthians 11:23-26

Devotional: Jesus transforms simple elements like bread and wine into powerful means of grace. Reflect on the significance of Baptism and Communion in your spiritual journey. How do these sacraments connect you to Christ's death and resurrection? Consider how you can approach these sacred practices with renewed reverence and faith, allowing them to deepen your relationship with God.


Day 5: Finding Joy in Life's Imperfections

Reading: James 1:2-4

Devotional: The sermon reminds us that weddings, like life, rarely go perfectly according to plan. Yet, these imperfections often become cherished memories. How can you embrace the unexpected challenges in your life as opportunities for growth and even joy? Reflect on a recent "imperfect" situation and consider how God might be using it to shape your character and deepen your faith. Pray for the ability to find Christ at the center of both your triumphs and trials.


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Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, I hope this note finds you well and encouraged in the Lord. St. Peter’s continues to be a place where God is at work through our preschool, school, various ministries, and the daily faithfulness of His people. I am grateful to serve the Lord with you in this place! As we continue to serve together, I want to update you on changes in our church office and ministry staff. As many of you know, Michelle Leahy has been serving as our “Interim Director of Operations,” providing support and coordination across many areas of congregational life. In the coming weeks, Michelle will be stepping into a new role, “Executive Director.” This means her work will shift from hands-on ministry support to more administrative leadership and oversight of the church office, properties, finances, and technology. This is an important step for us as a congregation as we continue to support our staff and serve our members. With this change, we want to ensure that daily ministry needs are met. After reviewing our current staffing and budget, we can make an adjustment that supports the ongoing ministry without increasing costs. To that end, Kami Jo Mogelvang will expand her role to serve as “Church Ministry Coordinator.” Many of you have already seen Kami Jo assisting Pastor McDowell in youth ministry two days each week. Under the new alignment, she will: Continue serving in youth ministry, and Help coordinate ministry efforts and volunteer connections with Pastor Nate and Pastor McDowell across the congregation. This will help us strengthen volunteer support and the many “connecting points” that help our church family care for one another. As Kami Jo transitions out of her receptionist duties, this change will open about 18 hours per week at the front desk, which we have posted. This staffing arrangement stays within our approved 2025 budget. I am thankful for Michelle, Kami Jo, our staff, and all our volunteers. I also appreciate the spirit of grace and partnership that marks our congregation. Please keep our staff and ministry leaders in your prayers as we move through these transitions. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out. Thank you for the privilege of serving Christ with you! In Christ, Pastor Danny Eggold St. Peter’s Lutheran Church & School
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