We celebrated the Festival of Pentecost. In the Large Catechism, Martin Luther wrote about the work of the Holy Spirit in his explanation of the 3rd Article of the Creed:

"Now this is the article of the Creed that must always be and remain in use. For we have already received creation. Redemption, too, is finished. But the Holy Spirit carries on His work without ceasing to the Last Day. For that purpose He has appointed a congregation upon earth by which He speaks and does everything. For He has not yet brought together all His Christian Church or granted all forgiveness. Therefore, we believe in Him who daily brings us into the fellowship of this Christian Church through the Word. Through the same Word and the forgiveness of sins He bestows, increases, and strengthens faith. So when He has done it all, and we abide in this and die to the world and to all evil, He may finally make us perfectly and forever holy. Even now we expect this in faith through the Word."
(paragraphs 61-62)

The work of the Holy Spirit continues even today as he strengthens your faith and creates faith in the hearts of new believers. He carries this work out through the church and as the gospel message is proclaimed. You continue to enjoy the blessings of Pentecost as you hear God’s Word, recall the blessings of your baptism, and receive the Lord’s Supper. The Holy Spirit is truly at work in these to strengthen you in faith and empower you to live as God’s child – whether you feel it or not. Make time in your life – both personally and as a member of our congregation – to regularly hear the Word of God so that the Spirit’s ongoing work comforts you by pointing you to Jesus.

“When the Counselor comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father, he will testify about me.”  John 15:26  (NIV)

 

Pastor Aufdemberge

Pastor Kneser

Pastor Wempner

Pastor Zarling