Dear friends of Jesus connected through Peace,

A couple of weeks ago I sat the at the Leadership Conference and heard, “A vision offers a sketch of what could be. We accept the challenge of THIS vision because it is overwhelming and empowering. This is our calling. This is our most worthy goal. This is what we are in service to. This is life-giving."

In a way, vision is easy.

  • If you want to walk into a NICU and make sure that no one has to worry about paying for their stay, you’ve got a vision.

  • If you want to make sure every person in Otsego - Plainwell knows Jesus (whether or not they trust him) before they do, you’ve got a vision.

  • If you want everyone to have hope, you’ve got a vision.

On Sunday, our congregation spoke again our desire to do gospel ministry in Otsego-Plainwell with greater clarity. They asked us to spend time listening to God, our community, and one another so that we can be filled with a red-hot, crystal-clear picture of our God-given, hope-filled, peace-focused future that captures the hearts of the congregation and is stated in a simple, memorable, community-embraced kingdom cry.

Our council is going to work with us all on this great task while we move gospel ministry forward. While we clarify our future, we will keep working hard at the work we know we should do: point out sin and point to Jesus.

May God fill our work with the Spirit!

Lessons this week: Exodus 19:1-8a, 1 Peter 2:9-12, Matthew 5:13-20

Songs this week: “Yet Not I But Through Christ in Me”, “Church of God Elect and Glorious”, “Take My Life and Let It Be”

See you Sunday at 9:30.

Gospel Spotlight

“The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ”. I got to share some great news this week. When the best news you’ve received lately is “your divorce has gone through”, the gospel of Jesus is great news. Someone has lived the good life for you and wants to give you credit for it. You don’t have to do a thing.

Where did you see the gospel at work this week?

Prayer Highlight

On Sunday we agreed to clarify our vision in 2026. Let’s pray for God to direct us.

“Lord, we praise for the chance to do gospel ministry in 2026. We are so privileged to be your people and to enjoy your favor. We are eager to do your work. We want to discover the future you want to give us.

We confess that we cannot make your kingdom come. We are weak and corrupt and easily turn toward pther rulers. Forgive us for listening to the gods of this age, and bring us your kingdom for the sake of Jesus our Lord. In Jesus' name, Amen."

Our sick or homebound friends - Judy Haugh, Brenda Grimm, Shirley Kling, Darlene Syers, Irene Haas, Maxine Sandahl, Marge Gavan, Don Hutchinson

Valentine’s - Share God’s Love

This Sunday, February 8th, we're doing something special together. After our worship service, we're hosting a “Share God's Love" card-making event in the family center/fellowship hall.

Here's the idea: We'll gather as a congregation to create beautiful encouragement cards featuring Scripture about God's love in Jesus Christ.

DETAILS:

What: Card-making and laughs

When: Sunday, February 8th immediately after service

Who: Everyone! All ages are welcome. Kids can help decorate, adults can write messages, and everyone can pray over these cards.

No artistic ability required - we'll have all supplies and examples ready. Just bring yourselves and willing hearts.

CAN'T MAKE SUNDAY?

We also need volunteers to help address and send cards. Contact pastor.

Let's show our community the love of Christ this Valentine's Day!

Lent 2026 “It is Finished”

Let’s explore the ancient words of the prophet Zechariah—words written hundreds of years before Jesus walked the earth, yet describing his final days with breathtaking accuracy.

You'll be amazed at what you discover:

How did Zechariah know about the thirty pieces of silver? The piercing on the cross? The disciples scattering in fear? The cleansing power of Jesus' sacrifice? As we read these prophecies side by side with the Gospel accounts, you'll see God's loving plan of rescue unfolding with stunning precision—a plan set in motion long before that first Easter morning.

Come and experience:

  • The comfort of knowing your Savior wasn't a victim of circumstances, but the fulfillment of God's eternal promise

  • The wonder of seeing prophecy and reality align perfectly in Jesus

  • Fresh insights into familiar stories that will deepen your faith

  • Time to reflect, renew, and draw closer to the One who gave everything for you

Whether you've been walking with Jesus for years or you're just beginning to explore who he is, this series will open your eyes to the beautiful truth: every detail of Jesus' journey to the cross was part of God's love letter to you.

Come discover—or rediscover—the One who declared "It is finished!" and meant it.

Lent begins February 18th with Ash Wednesday service at 6:30 pm.

Snacks after each service.

Consider My Financial Life in the New Year

As you head into the new year, let me encourage you and provide some help if I can with regard to your finances. Finances are important to us all. We feel pressure due to inflation. We experience changes in income. We might face new costs and expenses. We pay careful attention to our finances because money always means more than dollars and cents.

There are too many little things to consider when it comes to good financial practices. If you want someone to talk to, feel free to ask. We can commiserate together (and I might be able to point you in a helpful direction). We’ll do a “Financial Peace University” seminar again soon. You can learn more there.

Let me encourage you to take careful stock of your financial position and see how you are giving your best to the Lord. God tells us a lot about money and finances. Here are two resources that might help you as you consider your financial position and generosity in 2026.

If either of those things help you, I’m glad. Let me know if I can do more for you!

 

Movie Night - CS Lewis

We’re hosting a great movie night in March!

March 7th beginning at 4:30

Two powerful CS Lewis stories: "The Most Reluctant Convert” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8fvLEVI5e6c and “Further Up and Further In”

Dinner included!

Calendar

February 7th 9:30 am Evangelism workshop

February 8th 9:30 am Service and catechism, bake sale, “Share God’s Love” card making

February 12th 12:00 pm Senior lunch

February 12th 6:30 pm Study group

February 15th 9:30 am Service and catechism

February 18th 6:30 pm Ash Wednesday service

February 20th 11:00 am Ladies Guild

February 20th 6:30 pm Bunco

February 21st 9:30 Christian Theology






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Peace Lutheran Church 805 S Wilmott St Otsego, MI 49078

269-694-6104 https://peaceotsego.org