So let ‘afraid’ turn to ‘a faith’!

Jesus’ followers often were afraid – but Jesus kept on loving them and pushing them to “take heart” and let him nurture their faith. Even after Jesus’ most famous miracle – the feeding of the 5,000 – his followers still had trouble with their faith. (How human is that?)

So Jesus called out to them, as he calls out to us today: “Hey guys, it’s me! I’m here! Right here with you! And you know who I am, and you have seen what I can do. So quit being a bunch o’ sissies and get with the program!”

They were terrified… But immediately, Jesus spoke to them and said, “Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid.” – Matthew 14:22-33

Be a part of God’s good kingdom! Even when you’re afraid – especially when you’re afraid – Jesus walks right there with you.

Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 19:9-18; Psalm 85:8-13; Romans 10:5-15; Matthew 14:22-33. Read them here. 

The Rev. Eileen Smith Le Van preaches today.

Your spiritual growth

Summer is the growing season. In the Church, we see it also as a season of spiritual growth. So in these weeks after celebrating Pentecost – when God sent his Holy Spirit to Jesus’ followers – we reflect on stories that encourage us to follow the Spirit as it leads us closer to God. Learn more about this Time After Pentecost.

Happening at PEACE

  • New Office Hours – 9am-12pm & 12:30-3:30pm Monday through Friday.
  • Monday Bible Study – Meet from 1:15-2:30 p.m. Mondays in the Meeting Room with Pastor Eileen. Readings from the book of Acts.
  • Contemplative Prayer – We gather at 12:30-1 p.m. Wednesdays in the Conference Room by the Office. Experience deep peace and connection to the Divine in this 30-minute period of silence. Hear the “still, small voice” – really! Conducted by Pastor Eileen.
  • Coming Up Check out PEACE’s online events calendar.

Adult Bible Study

“Justice for the Poor” is a video series created by Sojourners, a ministry in Washington, D.C., that links Jesus’ life and teachings to ask, “What is our responsibility to care for the poor and to advocate for justice on their behalf?” For several weeks this summer, we will watch 20-minute installments and discuss the issues each one raises. Today, we watch “From Serial Charity to a Just Society.”

The Adult Forum meets in the Old Fellowship Hall at 10 a.m., led by Pastor Eileen. Stop in the Fellowship Center around the corner to pick up coffee & baked goods!

Sunday School

Sunday School is on break for the summer! We invite you to come in the fall as we celebrate the 500th anniversary of the Reformation with fun stories about Martin Luther, told through the eyes of his children.

Youth @ PEACE is our all-ages Bible study, where young disciples learn the core stories of our faith and what it means to walk the Jesus Path. We welcome all who yearn to learn more about our loving, gracious Creator.

This week’s summertime Bible memory verse: “Jesus spoke to them and said, ‘Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid.'” – Matthew 14:27. Practice at home, then collect a fistful of Bible Bucks when we return in the fall.

Bible memory verses: Kids can earn Bible Bucks for verses they memorize and redeem them for cool prizes! Our goal is for young people to bring God’s word deep into their hearts, supporting a lifetime of faith.

Toddler Time

Our special program for the tiniest disciples resumes in the Fall. God invites ALL children, so bring your babies and squirmy tots for this fun time of spiritual growth!

Get Involved at PEACE!

Get to know people at PEACE Lutheran Church who are helping in our community.

Get to know people through our Youth & Family programs.