This weekend's Gospel is the Parable about the Wise and Foolish Bridesmaids, which comes from Matthew 25:1-13. This parable of Jesus has been traditionally positioned as a parable about the Second Coming, emphasizing the need for readiness at all times. However, there are also overtones in this parable that impact the way in which expectations and roles are fulfilled. In the parable, five (wise) bridesmaids not only made adequate preparation for their duty and responsibility to serve as a bridesmaid, they did so because they understood clearly what the expectations of a bridesmaid were. The other five (foolish) bridesmaids did not fully understand or embrace those expectations. One of the wonders of the Bible and the words contained within God's Word, is the way in which they continue to impact our thoughts, our perceptions and our very lives. Join us for worship this weekend as we unpack the meaning of this insightful parable of Jesus.

This is Pledge Weekend. Remember to bring both pledge cards with you to worship, as we will formally dedicate these Ministries Alive - 2009 commitments for the coming year as well as our 3-year commitments to “A Church Alive!” Capital Campaign. (Ministries Alive - 2009 Stewardship Drive is a GREEN pledge card – “A Church Alive” is a PURPLE pledge card.) Our ministry depends on the generous support of all the members of our congregation, not just some of our members. Please pray for God's direction and pray for your personal response to these important needs of our ministry together!

Prayer of Dedication of Pledges (to be used at our worship services this weekend) - Gracious Heavenly Father, You have given us all that we have and all that we are. We give you thanks that we are truly “alive in Christ.” Over these last weeks, we have prayed about our pledges and gifts. We have prayed for your church and its needs. We have prayed for your direction and guidance in our decision to give. So today we dedicate our pledges to the mission and ministry to which you have called us, through St. John’s Lutheran Church. We pray for our congregation, that we might continue to be “A Church Alive!” in both our mission and in our ministry in the coming year. We pray that these pledges and gifts may be used for the growth and expansion of our ministry through this congregation, to this community. In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray . . . AMEN.

Alive in Christ,