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MomTalk

Moms of small children—get together with other moms of small children. Enjoy food and fellowship and learn something from amazing presenters. Please let us know prior to coming if you need childcare so the nursery may be properly staffed.

Families

Feature: 7 Promises | 2020 Summer Quarterly

What does the future hold? Unless you are Captain Oblivious, you must acknowledge the fact the world we live in today is pressurized to a degree we have not seen in many decades. I do not remember a time when every nation, every culture, every individual has been so affected by a single factor. Even if you are not in the crosshairs of the pandemic, likely you are feeling the secondary effect. So, it is easy to ask, “What does the future hold?” But it is the wrong question. The right question is, “Who holds the future?” I have, for some time, encouraged people to look for the heroes in times of crisis. Keeping our eye on the good happening around us keeps our hearts from being discouraged. There is a greater good at work in the world than the heroic action of many. This higher work is the work of God. God is not silenced nor diminished in the grasp of modernity. Not for a moment. Here are some helpful reminders of who is still in charge.

Men's Breakfast Bible Study

Start your Tuesday off right with a delicious, home-cooked breakfast and the word of God. Great fellowship has formed in this group of men who are always open to welcoming others to their early morning conversations.

Helping Hands

This group of men begin the day with a home-cooked breakfast and then tackle different jobs or projects that need to be done throughout the church. It is a great time of camaraderie and a way to lend a “helping hand.”

Feature: Face-to-Face | 2020 Summer Quarterly

Coffee Servers

One of the many ways we show hospitality is through our Sunday morning coffee servers. Often the people serving comment on how much they enjoy this ministry—and it is so easy! The serving counter is all prepared; the only duties are to replenish the supplies as needed and greet people in a friendly, welcoming manner.

Pre-Marriage Seminar

Anyone can help you with the wedding; we want to stick around for the marriage. That is why FLC requires pre-marital work before the “I do’s” are said. We contract with a local ministry called “Love, Succeed, Commit.” They offer online and in-person options and a cost involved.

Feature: Feeling the Love! | 2020 Summer Quarterly

Even though we were unable to gather in person, we have been blessed with continuing worship together virtually. Every Sunday and Wednesday, services have been broadcast from our website and Facebook page. The Holy Spirit is not confined to a building . . .

Funeral Servers

The loss of a loved one is a difficult time, and we hope to comfort those grieve by serving a lunch or dessert after a funeral. We have three groups of funeral servers. Each group serves one month out of each quarter of a year. Bars and cakes are donated by the people in each group. All other food is purchased.

Quilters

The quilters are a faithful group of women who comes together every week to create beautiful quilts that are given away to Lutheran World Relief, FLC mission trips, or local charities. Beginners and experts welcome!

Feature: Sweet Connections | 2020 Summer Quarterly

Sweet Connections During the 2020 COVID-19 Stay-At-Home Period | The staff, council, and members of First Lutheran have been reaching out to people to let them know they are in our thoughts and prayers. Many have responded with such grace and gratitude. . . .

Prayer Shawl Ministry

This group of caring women crochet or knit prayer shawls which are given to people in need of a special touch of love. They also create infant baptismal shawls that are given to every child baptized at First Lutheran.

Health Ministry Committee

Health Ministry is a standing committee whose mission is to help all to experience God's grace, love, and healing by addressing their spiritual, physical, emotional, and mental health. This committee works closely with the Parish Nurse.

2020 SCHOOL KIT DRIVE

Help us fill 100+ School Kits for Lutheran World Relief by shopping in July and August from this supply list...

BeFriender Ministry

BeFrienders are volunteer lay ministers who provide pastoral care to people in difficult and transitional situations, such as illness, loneliness, or loss of a loved one. They embody the caring presence of God and serve as a living reminder of his love. If you have a heart for others and would like to be a caring presence for a hurting person, we invite you to find out more.

Mission Soup Sunday

The Mission Soup team offers up many delicious varieties of homemade soup with proceeds benefiting local and global missions. You can help their efforts by purchasing a bowl of soup to eat here or take home, or you can volunteer to make soup.

Worship Bulletins

Search for recent FLC Worship Bulletin PDFs

Men

Women

Wednesday Fellowship

Wednesday Fellowship has been a hallmark FLC Senior Ministry for nearly 50 years. Every Wednesday, 40 to 60 seniors gather for devotions and hymns, led by a member of the pastoral team and followed by a delicious luncheon served by FLC volunteers. Many also come early to enjoy a 30-minute organ recital by Michael Olson, Minister of Music. Several stop by the parish nurse office to have their blood pressure checked and/or health-related questions addressed.

Seniors

Organ Recitals

Michael Olson is well known for his magnificent talent on the organ. Everyone is welcome to hear him play every Wednesday at 12:45 p.m. in the Sanctuary. These recitals provide an opportunity for you to unwind, relax and reflect. While most of the recitals are played on the church’s pipe organ, occasionally a piano recital is presented and guest musicians are invited to share their talents. After the recital you are invited to attend Wednesday Fellowship Worship in the chapel at 1:30 p.m. with lunch and fellowship following in Celebration Hall.

Kids at First

56ers

Servant Leadership Academy

High School

Joyful Noise Choir (Grades 7-12)

Joyful Noise is a great way for kids to lend their passion of singing to worship. The group leads singing in worship occasionally and with other FLC musical groups. No audition is needed. Boys and girls welcome.

Women's Choir

The choral group for women, under the direction of Kathy Ferreira, is for those who love to sing and praise the Lord. Usually sing once a month. No auditions required.

Christian Education - 2021 FALL REGISTRATION

Register your youngin's for Christian Education classes this fall. Please carefully read the introduction to each age group's class set-up as location/platform may vary.

Sermons & Devotions

Now Playing or Most Recent Sermon/Service

Thank you for worshiping with us today!

Prepare Him Room - Advent 2021

Daily Devotion | September 15, 2021

I didn’t mean to do it. It just sort of happened. I scheduled myself too tight. An early...

Daily Devotions | September 14, 2021

Stealing a move from Pastor Laurie’s playbook, I begin with David, the masterpiece sculpture in...

Daily Devotion | September 13, 2021

Light momentary afflictions. Uff da! I have had a few lately. First, the Mayo Clinic diagnosis of...

Revive 2021 | Sermon Series

Daily Devotion | September 11, 2021

Several times a day I will do a “toss up” prayer. - “Lord lead me on the path you have for me.” I have many “toss up” ...

Daily Devotion | September 10, 2021

Carl Spitzweg titled this painting The Librarian, but the viewing public renamed it...

September 9, 2021

Monday, September 6 was a quiet Labor Day in Fargo. Traffic was light. Businesses were...

September 8, 2021

I walked into Costco to grab a few things on my list: laundry detergent, toilet paper, granola bars, and eggs. I promised myself...

Daily Devotion | September 7, 2021

I am so very sorry Steve. I never got to say goodbye. There was no funeral. No service of...

Daily Devotion | September 4, 2021

In conversations with many different people this past month, I have heard so much...

Daily Devotion | September 3, 2021

A few weeks ago, my husband and I took in an immersive Vincent van Gogh exhibit in Minneapolis. It was housed in...

Daily Devotion | September 2, 2021

School is in session. There is excitement in the air, maybe even some....

Daily Devotion | September 1, 2021

Last week the news coming out of Afghanistan took my breath away. When the names of thirteen...

Daily Devotion | August 31, 2021

A beautiful Saturday had dawned with bright sunshine and moderate temps. I had agreed to meet...

Daily Devotion | August 30, 2021

Her name was Patti, and of all the faces from my youth, I will remember her's best. We met while ...

Daily Devotion | August 28, 2021

It is "that time of year" once again -- the time of year where everything is going to be...

Daily Devotion | August 27, 2021

Imagine you’ve been assigned a project in which you have no experience and the outcome...

Daily Devotion | August 26, 2021

I spent two days last week painting bedrooms for Hannah and Sarah. It had...

Daily Devotion | August 25, 2021

Harvest time is my favorite time of year on the farm. There is a certain energy brought to bear on the hopefulness of filling the hopper...

Daily Devotion | August 24, 2021

My dear dialoguing damsel, Siri, reminded me that I had arrived. My destination would be on...

Daily Devotion | August 23, 2021

Imagine with me this story from the OT book of 1 Samuel. The Philistines have...

Daily Devotion | August 21, 2021

Daily Devotion | August 20, 2021

The title of this painting, Penelope Unraveling Her Web, suggests there might be a story here and...

Daily Devotion | August 19, 2021

The heat was oppressive, although it was late in the evening. Our taxis pulled up...

Daily Devotion | August 18, 2021

I must admit that PC (pre-COVID) life is becoming a distant memory for me...

Daily Devotion | August 17, 2021

These two beautiful gifts, sit on my work desk. In my fidgety, and tactile way...

Daily Devotion | August 16, 2021

Instructions are for Wimps! One of the things I like about the book of Ephesians is...

Daily Devotion | August 14, 2021

A few weeks ago, Greg and I spent time in Waco, Texas. We have always enjoyed...

Daily Devotion | August 13, 2021

I’m not sure why I was drawn to this painting by Chaim Soutine called ...

Daily Devotion | August 12, 2021

We write our own stories in this book called life. Some write in a linear way with...

Daily Devotion | August 11, 2021

We are definitely in the dog days of summer. T – minus two weeks before...

Daily Devotion | August 10, 2021

We splashed through muddy pools of rainwater, bumping our way down the...

Daily Devotion | August 9, 2021

Two wealthy brothers had terrorized the small town where they lived for decades. They were...

Daily Devotion | August 7, 2021

What do we do with what God has given to us?...

Daily Devotion | August 6, 2021

How would one depict hope? What would that look like? “Hope” is the title of this painting by...

Daily Devotion | August 5, 2021

The Olympics is a celebration of competition, endurance, strength, fighting...

Sermon Series | June-July 2021

First Lutheran Church - Fargo Sermon Series June 2021 Paul's Missionary Journeys

Daily Devotion | June 29, 2021

Most evenings in the spring and summer I close the day by scooting up ...

Daily Devotion | June 28, 2021

In six days we celebrate the 4th of July. The 4th of July is an opportunity to be...

May 30, 2021 | Celebration Sunday Worship

May 30, 2021 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

May 23, 2021 | Celebration Sunday Worship

May 23, 2021 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

May 16, 2021 | Celebration Sunday Worship

May 16, 2021 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

May 9, 2021 | Celebration Sunday Worship

May 9, 2021 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

May 2, 2021 | Celebration Sunday Worship

May 2, 2021 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

April 25, 2021 | Celebration Sunday Worship

April 25, 2021 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

April 18, 2021 | Celebration Sunday Worship

April 18, 2021 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

April 11, 2021 | Celebration Sunday Worship

April 11, 2021 | Sanctuary Jazz Sunday Worship

April 4, 2021 | Celebration Easter Worship

April 4, 2021 | Sanctuary Easter Worship

March 28, 2021 | Celebration Palm Sunday Worship

March 28, 2021 | Sanctuary Palm Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | March 23, 2021

Dads. Probably one of the most influential aspects of shaping who...

Daily Devotion | March 22, 2021

The next day the great crowd that had come to the festival heard...

March 21, 2021 | Celebration Sunday Worship

March 21, 2021 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | March 20, 2021

In the past few months, some of our confirmation kids have been...

Daily Devotion | March 19, 2021

The painting I am sharing with you today has no great...

Daily Devotion | March 18, 2021

Spring ahead. Check. The cold, winter fast is over...

Daily Devotion | March 17, 2021

Our daughter Sarah sits next to Mr. Michael Olson each...

Daily Devotion | March 16, 2021

This past winter we’ve spent a lot of time walking up and down...

Daily Devotion | March 15, 2021

In John 10:10, Jesus says, “I came that they may have life and have...

March 14, 2021 | Celebration Sunday Worship

March 14, 2021 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | March 13, 2021

How many decisions do we make in our lives every single day...

Daily Devotion | March 12, 2021

This painting by Giovanni Francesco Barbieri offers us a...

Daily Devotion | March 11, 2021

This was my dad. Often, we would hear him loft these...

Daily Devotion | March 10, 2021

This is one of my favorite pictures of our daughter with...

March 9, 2021

The blazing heat had beat down upon us all...

Daily Devotion | March 8, 2021

When I was a boy of about eight-years-old, my afterschool buddies...

March 7, 2021 | Celebration Sunday Worship

March 7, 2021 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | March 6, 2021

Sweet Amy, a kindergartner, came home from school one day and...

Daily Devotion | March 5, 2021

Consider the Old Testament prophet Jeremiah. Imagine preaching to...

Daily Devotion | March 4, 2021

I caught her. I went into her room one early...

Daily Devotion | March 3, 2021

My mom spent much of the month of February with us. Before you...

Daily Devotion | March 2, 2021

My phone was ringing in the kitchen. I glanced at my alarm...

Daily Devotion | March 1, 2021

I bet this was a stressful time for Jesus. And if there is one thing I have learned...

February 28, 2021 | Celebration Sunday Worship

February 28, 2021 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | February 27, 2021

This past Wednesday evening we had an...

Daily Devotion | February 26, 2021

The painting we are looking at today is...

Daily Devotion | February 25, 2021

We said good-bye but this time it was different...

Daily Devotion | February 24, 2021

I am a child of the 1980s. Big hair don’t care, high-waisted stonewashed...

Daily Devotion | February 23, 2021

Friday afternoon found me relaxing on the sofa wrapped in...

Daily Devotion | February 22, 2021

The beauty of America and the Christian faith is the abundance of...

February 21, 2021 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | February 20, 2021

Several times a day I will do a “toss-up” prayer. “Lord lead me on the path you...

Daily Devotion | February 19, 2021

In 2012, a Catholic church in the village of Borja in northeastern Spain suspected...

Daily Devotion | February 18, 2021

We are fussing, throughout this season of Lent, with the theme...

Daily Devotion | February 17, 2021

Dusting is my jam. When we divide up the household chores, I am...

Daily Devotion | February 16, 2021

In defiance of the long-lasting intense cold snap that seems to have...

Daily Devotion | February 15, 2021

When I was a boy of about eight-years-old, my afterschool...

February 14, 2021 | Celebration Sunday Worship

February 14, 2021 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | February 13, 2021

Many years ago, a pastor told me that another pastor had told him...

Daily Devotion | February 12, 2021

Caravaggio is one of my favorite artists. I have a book of his complete works and I never...

Daily Devotion | February 11, 2021

One night, in early December, I received a random email...

Daily Devotion | February 10, 2021

Last week, I was reading a devotion that my friend and...

Daily Devotion | February 9, 2021

Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Peru, Ecuador, Columbia,...

Daily Devotion | February 8, 2021

Years ago, I penned the words, “Dark Night of the Soul.” I do not know if I had ever heard...

February 7, 2021 | Celebration Sunday Worship

February 7, 2021 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | February 6, 2021

For the Lord your God has blessed you in all that you have done...

Daily Devotion | February 5, 2021

How cruel of me to choose a painting entitled...

Daily Devotion | February 4, 2021

I recently borrowed a lovely book of prayers and poems from a friend titled...

Daily Devotion | February 3, 2021

The week leading up to the Super Bowl is a big deal if you’re in the...

Daily Devotion | February 2, 2021

Long winter nights, and more free time from COVID, have given me lots of...

Daily Devotion | February 1, 2021

When I was in seminary, I was part of a group of students that...

January 31, 2021 | Celebration Sunday Worship

January 31, 2021 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | January 30, 2021

Ground that drinks up the rain falling on it repeatedly, and that produces a...

Daily Devotion | January 29, 2021

In Acts 7, we find the story of the church’s first martyr, Saint...

Daily Devotion | January 28, 2021

For everything, there is a season, a time for every activity under....

Daily Devotion | January 27, 2021

I am sick of wearing masks. There I said it. I know I’m not alone and no this isn’t a...

Daily Devotion | January 26, 2021

How is your withdrawal? How are you doing at breaking away? How is your...

Daily Devotion | January 25, 2021

Jacob wrestled with God. The wrestling yielded a blessing but also a good...

January 24, 2021 | Celebration Sunday Worship

January 24, 2021 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | January 23, 2021

On Wednesday evening with my confirmation small group, we talked about...

Daily Devotion | January 22, 2021

About this time of year, I start to long for summer. Even though this winter has...

Daily Devotion | January 21, 2021

A couple of days ago, my inner critic was flapping about how hard my life ...

Daily Devotion | January 20, 2021

Lucy Davis. I just love that name. It is packed with star power, don’t you think? Say it a...

Daily Devotion | January 19, 2021

My eldest daughter Karina is a talented artist. She is especially good at throwing beautiful and...

Daily Devotion | January 18, 2021

Fog. It is hard to see. Driving can be difficult. It is hard to see. We could lose our...

January 17, 2021 | Celebration Sunday Worship

January 17, 2021 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | January 16, 2021

Growing up in my home congregation of Lutheran Church of the Master in Omaha, I don't remember...

Daily Devotion | January 15, 2021

This painting was so endearing that I couldn’t help sharing it...

Daily Devotion | January 14, 2021

What does it mean to be "fully present?" I believe it is the ability to recognize the Holy in...

Daily Devotion | January 13, 2021

Last January my family boarded its first and last flight of 2020. We were coming home from...

Daily Devotion | January 12, 2021

Cresting the top of the dike, I observe Orion, lying on his...

Daily Devotion | January 11, 2021

If a tree falls in a forest and no one is around to hear it, does it make...

Jan. 10, 2021 | Celebration Sunday Worship

Jan. 10, 2021 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | January 9, 2021

This past Wednesday, I was consumed by feelings of...

Daily Devotion | January 8, 2021

In John 2, we find the story of Jesus’ first miracle: turning water...

Daily Devotion | January 7, 2021

So. Much. Stuff. I caught a few episodes of American Pickers while...

Daily Devotion | January 6, 2021

How are you doing with your New Year’s resolutions? We are...

Daily Devotion | January 5, 2021

I recently received this powerful email from one of First Lutheran’s faithful...

Daily Devotion | January 4, 2021

Dreams are meant to be a little crazy! We are four days into...

Jan. 3, 2021 | Celebration Sunday Worship

Jan. 3, 2021 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | January 2, 2021

As we look back on the year 2020, what will we remember...

Daily Devotion | January 1, 2021

Isn’t this a lovely winter scene? I pray your Christmas was filled with...

Daily Devotion | December 31, 2020

I saw this posted on a social media site the other day. I laughed and ...

Daily Devotion | December 30, 2020

Yesterday was our daughter’s eleventh birthday. We celebrated with the usual cake and...

Daily Devotion | December 29, 2020

Heading out from my weekend camping trip to Itasca, I hefted my backpack and quietly...

Daily Devotion | December 28, 2020

Simeon and Anna. We bump into these two in the...

December 27, 2020 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

December 27, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | December 26, 2020

Did you know that the 12 days of Christmas start on Christmas day? So today the 26th is...

December 25, 2020 | Sanctuary Christmas Day

Daily Devotion | December 25, 2020

Merry Christmas on this Christmas morn! I pray you have experienced a taste of...

December 24, 2020 | Sanctuary Christmas Eve

December 24, 2020 | Celebration Christmas Eve

Daily Devotion | December 24, 2020

All of the Advent candles are lit. The waiting and preparing are...

Daily Devotion | December 23, 2020

The power of one. One more present to wrap. One more gift to buy and one more cookie...

Daily Devotion | December 22, 2020

Daily Devotion | December 21, 2020

Are you sick of hearing that, yet? To be sure, it will be different but ...

Dec. 20, 2020 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Dec. 20, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | December 19, 2020

Today is the Saturday before Christmas. Tomorrow is the Fourth...

Daily Devotion | December 18, 2020

Not many artists depict the Christmas story through the eyes of...

Daily Devotion | December 17, 2020

We have all experienced dark times. You might be living in it right...

Daily Devotion | December 16, 2020

What’s the deal with Hallmark Christmas movies...

Daily Devotion | December 15, 2020

The Red River snakes along its course bending, twisting, turning, and ...

Daily Devotion | December 14, 2020

The wolf shall live with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the kid...

Dec. 13, 2020 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Dec. 13, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | December 11, 2020

One of my favorite places to be is in my dining room looking out towards...

Daily Devotion | December 10, 2020

The Robertsons really enjoy Christmas music. I was half way through our...

Daily Devotion | December 8, 2020

On a recent elk-hunting trip in the mountains of Colorado, my buddy John...

Daily Devotion | December 7, 2020

Parts of California in 2019 experienced what is called a super bloom....

December 6, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship

December 6, 2020 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | December 5, 2020

It's the most wonderful time of the year! Is it, though??...

Daily Devotion | December 4, 2020

When I came across this painting, I thought it was an appropriate image for...

Daily Devotion | December 3, 2020

In the course of just a few hours today I received sad news and good news from...

Daily Devotion | December 2, 2020

We waited until the day after Thanksgiving to decorate our Christmas tree...

Daily Devotion | December 1, 2020

The Thanksgiving table was set with all the classics. Turkey, stuffing...

Daily Devotion | November 30, 2020

I remember, as a new pastor, looking out my office window at a house that was draped...

November 29, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship

November 29, 2020 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | November 28, 2020

When I think about Thanksgiving I think about traditions. The strongest traditions...

Daily Devotion | November 27, 2020

Most people above a certain age are familiar with Norman Rockwell...

Daily Devotion | November 26, 2020

His name was Pastor Ray. He could always be counted on to speak these words in almost...

Daily Devotion | November 25, 2020

Several years ago, my mother-in-law came to visit us in Nebraska with the sole purpose...

Daily Devotion | November 24, 2020

Alien spacecraft hovers over rescue workers! Or maybe not...

Daily Devotion | November 23, 2020

Growing-up, fall was always full of excitement as we started a new...

Daily Devotion | November 22, 2020

Next Sunday, we enter into one of my favorite seasons of...

November 22, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship

November 22, 2020 | Sunday Sanctuary Worship

Daily Devotion | November 21, 2020

What the world needs now is love, sweet love; it's the only thing that there's just too little of...

Daily Devotion | November 20, 2020

Jesus doesn’t always act like we think he should. Take, for instance, the time when he clears...

Daily Devotion | November 19, 2020

The parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) is deeply layered which essentially mirrors daily life. There is endless conversation...

Daily Devotion | November 18, 2020

The first year our family was in Nebraska we knew we would be alone for the holidays. We knew it...

Daily Devotion | November 17, 2020

Walking. The simple act of walking is on my brain of late. For one, with the onset of winter, and feeling like....

Daily Devotion | November 16, 2020

November 15, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship

November 15, 2020 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | November 15, 2020

I felt compelled to write about the love of God for today’s devotional. For several days, I was armed with my Bible and pen...

Daily Devotion | November 14, 2020

When I was eight years old I got into the biggest trouble of my young life. The ‘incident’ began with me hanging out with...

Daily Devotion | November 13, 2020

In Mark 8:27-29, we come across Jesus asking his friends what the talk on the street is about his identity...

Daily Devotion | November 12, 2020

Jesus tells a story about a man who goes on a journey (Matt. 25:14-30). He entrusts, before he leaves...

Daily Devotion | November 11, 2020

On this Veterans Day, I reflect on growing up in a small community that packed the high school...

Daily Devotion | November 10, 2020

Let me introduce you to Dumbledor. Dumbledor is a male sheep, or a ram, ear tag #21. He was born in...

Daily Devotion | November 9, 2020

There is in Scripture a mandate to practice hospitality. When many of us think of hospitality today we think entertaining....

November 8, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship

November 8, 2020 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | November 8, 2020

Take a few minutes to join me for prayer this morning. I'd like to read and share a prayer titled...

Daily Devotion | November 7, 2020

When I first read through these scripture passages, I was all set to talk about prayer.

Daily Devotion | November 6, 2020

As much as I love the warmth of summer, I also appreciate the nip in the air that comes with...

Daily Devotion | November 5, 2020

Holden Village. It is nestled in the Cascade Mountains of Washington. Holden is only accessible by...

Daily Devotion | November 4, 2020

Much of who I am, what I value, stand for and believe in comes from the prairie. I grew up on a...

Daily Devotion | November 3, 2020

Sitting 20’ up in my tree-stand, I silently waited for the coming of the dawn. The woods all around me were...

Daily Devotion | November 2, 2020

“Mann Tracht, Un Gott Lacht” is an old Yiddish adage meaning, “Man Plans, and God Laughs.” Despite...

Daily Devotion | November 1, 2020

A few weeks ago I was following a supply truck of some kind. The slogan on the back of the truck was...

November 1, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship

November 1, 2020 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | October 31, 2020

On Wednesday night we had our first night of virtual Youth Group. For it we watched a NOOMA video, called...

Daily Devotion | October 30, 2020

I ran across this quote on a blog by Gehad Gamal and I’m not sure if she wrote it or if it should be attributed to...

Daily Devotion | October 29, 2020

Remember the sabbath day and keep it holy. The first holy thing in creation was not a people or a...

Daily Devotion | October 28, 2020

All Saints Day is November 1. It is a day in the Christian Church that commemorates all the saints...

Daily Devotion | October 27, 2020

As the woods awaken around me, it is quiet and serene. There is a feel of moisture to the air and my leather gloves are...

Daily Devotion | October 26, 2020

Two friends took a picnic lunch to the beach. They rolled out a blanket and sat down in the sand. One of the friends...

Daily Devotion | October 25, 2020

Do you remember Stuart Smalley from Saturday Live?

October 25, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship

October 25, 2020 | Sunday Sanctuary Worship

Daily Devotion | October 24, 2020

When I think of a gift, I think of birthdays, or Christmas, or Mother's Day or Father's Day...

Daily Devotion | October 23, 2020

This painting is quite small—only 12 inches by 12 inches. The size invites...

Daily Devotion | October 22, 2020

This coming Sunday is Reformation Sunday. We remember Martin Luther, a no-name monk, who taught...

Daily Devotion | October 21, 2020

I am a voracious reader, typically reading several books at the same time. One or more of these are often assigned for...

October 18, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | October 20, 2020

The warm afternoon sun felt comforting on my face as I ran along the bike path between Dike East and...

Daily Devotion | October 19, 2020

As a communication major in college I studied etymology; the history, origin and derived meanings of words. Most of us take for granted the...

October 18, 2020 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | October 18, 2020

During a recent session with my spiritual director, I was talking about life looking different than I had anticipated. Not better or worse, just...

Daily Devotion | October 16, 2020

When this scene was painted (circa 1510), it was one of the first landscape paintings of this scale ever done. The artist, Patinir, is considered...

Daily Devotion | October 15, 2020

Her name was Sacagawea. She helped Lewis and Clark explore unfamiliar territory. She was an interpreter and negotiator...

Daily Devotion | October 14, 2020

I was lamenting the other day that fall felt different without college football. Bison nation has gone quiet without the rallying cry of...

Daily Devotion | October 13, 2020

The parking lot was empty which only added to my deep sense of aloneness and isolation. The air was still and temps hovered in the....

Daily Devotion | October 12, 2020

I have a canoe that lives under my deck. Early summer, we found a better place for the canoe…in the water! Canoes seemingly work better when...

Daily Devotion | October 11, 2020

Most of us have been hospitalized at one time and if you haven't, chances are you know someone who has. A simple fact of being hospitalized is...

October 11, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | October 10, 2020

In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, in the midst of racial tensions, in the midst of wildfires still burning, in the midst of the upcoming election, we need...

Daily Devotion | October 8, 2020

Sometimes we think miracles are miraculous events beyond the limits of reason. Sometimes we think that miracles are...

Daily Devotion | October 9, 2020

Today’s painting is by the Dutch artist Peter Paul Rubens. He is depicting the four gospel writers meeting together. An angel is giving them....

Daily Devotion | October 7, 2020

Have you ever wanted something so much, that it’s all you could think about? Wanting it consumed every part of your life, but then....

Daily Devotion | October 6, 2020

Daily Devotion | October 5, 2020

We had our first fall fire this weekend. The wood snapped, crackled and popped as the flames danced in the dark. It was a holy moment....

October 4, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship

October 4, 2020 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | October 4, 2020

From the very first day, we were there, taking it all in—we heard it with our own ears, saw it with our own eyes, verified it with...

Daily Devotion | October 3, 2020

Last Saturday, Rollie called me and asked me a very strange question. He asked me if I could be Dolly Parton for him ...

Daily Devotion | October 2, 2020

I have a love affair with The Saint John’s Bible and this is an illumination of the Parable of the Four Soils from that Bible (Mark 4:1-20). Notice it is ...

Daily Devotion | October 1, 2020

Three places… Last weekend, I went to the family farm near Devils Lake for the waterfowl opener. The night before...

Daily Devotion | September 30, 2020

Has it ever happened to you that you hear a song speak? Either in the lyrics or the rhythm or the melody and it moves you to feel...

Daily Devotion | September 29, 2020

White wood shavings flew in all directions. Each draw knife coaxing out a thinly sliced curly-cue of cream colored ash or ...

Daily Devotion | September 28, 2020

I have many times said those words from the pulpit. When I do, although people are polite, I can tell from their expressions...

Daily Devotion | September 27, 2020

One of my favorite shows over many years has been, "Kids Say the Darndest Things." I love the pure innocence of their...

September 27, 2020 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | September 26, 2020

I am thankful that I'm able to take a walk each morning around my neighborhood. I know of people who can barely walk or who have...

Daily Devotion | September 25, 2020

Perhaps you know the story of Job, shown here with his wife. He was a prosperous and godly man, blessed with...

Daily Devotion | September 24, 2020

I remember a day, this past summer, swimming with the kids at Detroit Lakes. It wasn’t really swimming…it was more like soaking ...

Daily Devotion | September 23, 2020

After a hot summer with lots of trips for ice-cream and ample lake time, the season of fall has arrived. It’s getting closer to ...

September 20, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship

September 20, 2020 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | September 22, 2020

At a recent church council meeting, one of our council members, a middle aged father of four, shared a very insightful comment. He stated...

Daily Devotion | September 21, 2020

I want to draw your attention to two verses from the scriptures that help me put stressful, crazy, and chaotic seasons of life...

Daily Devotion | September 20, 2020

I was recently on a silent retreat at a lovely place called Wellspring’s Farm near Annandale Minnesota. When you need a time of rest...

Daily Devotion | September 18, 2020

This painting by Dresden painter Johann Emanuel Gobel was discovered in 1985 and is believed to be a rare portrait of ...

Daily Devotion | September 17, 2020

Next week, I have an appointment with the optometrist. We are going to look at my eyes! The topic – how well do I see? My hunch...

Daily Devotion | September 16, 2020

You have heard it said, “One man’s junk is another man’s treasure.” This week is garbage pick up week in Fargo...

Daily Devotion | September 15, 2020

High in the Fryingpan Basin, we climbed breathlessly underneath clear, azure skies. The brilliant warm sunshine warmed...

Daily Devotion | September 14, 2020

A few years ago, I bought a jacket, and I encountered Inspector Forty-Seven...

September 13, 2020 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Scripture: Mark 1:1-14 Preacher: Pastor Stephanie Tollefson

September 13, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship

Scripture - Exodus 16:2-3; Numbers 13:1-2, 17-20, 25-33 Message - Pastor Marty Tollefson

Daily Devotion | September 13, 2020

"What the World Needs Now Is Love" was a popular 1965 song with lyrics by Hal David and music ...

Daily Devotion | September 12, 2020

This verse from Ephesians sounds as if it was tailor-made for us right here and right now...

Daily Devotion | September 11, 2020

We may look at art from all over the world and from many different eras, but sometimes it’s good to look in our own backyard...

Daily Devotion | September 10, 2020

It must have been quite a sight. Scores of people congregating along the banks of the Jordan ready to enter the river ...

Daily Devotion | September 9, 2020

Marty, the girls and I went to Glen Orchard last week to pick apples. With a hint of autumn’s chill in the air, I decided it was time for...

Daily Devotion | September 8, 2020

These hot August days have brought a radical new sound to my backyard sanctuary. In addition to the normal soothing sounds...

Daily Devotion | September 7, 2020

What has 2020 been like? Yep, just one blooper after another. Enjoy this video...

September 6, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship

September 6, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship Scripture - Matthew 18:15-20 Message - Pastor Corey Bjertness

September 6, 2020 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

September 6, 2020 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship Matthew 18:15-20 Pr. Corey Bjertness

Daily Devotion | September 6, 2020

I saw this beautiful picture on Facebook. The title was “First Day in Heaven.” It’s hard to even describe the emotions that go along with this picture...

Daily Devotion | September 5, 2020

It is Labor Day weekend. How can THAT be? Where did the summer go? In the midst of...

Daily Devotion | September 4, 2020

This painting by Flemish artist Jan Sanders van Hemessen is titled The Calling of St. Matthew. It falls into a category called...

Daily Devotion | September 3, 2020

The next few months of my life will be big. As many of you know, I have spent the past four years studying at Luther Seminary to become...

Daily Devotion | September 2, 2020

One of my favorite TV sitcoms was, "Everybody Loves Raymond." My Mom and I agreed not to call each other during the show...

Daily Devotion | September 1, 2020

The parking lot was mostly empty. I pondered if it was even open. But I had been told 5 p.m. I entered through the double doors and was greeted by ...

Daily Devotion | August 31, 2020

There was once a couple who had been married for 60 years. Throughout their life, they had shared everything... Senior Pastor

Daily Devotion | August 30, 2020

Many times, I have felt exhausted by life. There are seasons throughout our lives where we can feel like success is just making it through the day...

August 30, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship

August 30, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship Scripture - Revelations 21:1-5; 22:1-5 Message - Pastor Stephanie Tollefson

August 30, 2020 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

August 30, 2020 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship Revelation 21:1-5; 22:1-5 Pr. Stephanie Tollefson

Daily Devotion | August 29, 2020

I was going to further explore the first of today's Daily Texts about Hezekiah, but decided instead to talk about the second of the two Daily Texts...

Daily Devotion | August 28, 2020

When I was in Rome last summer, I had the distinct pleasure of taking in Michelangelo’s artwork in the Sistine Chapel. Most people know...

Daily Devotion | August 27, 2020

“Introverted or Extraverted, What’s Your Power?” “Name Your Strengths and Claim Them!” ....

Daily Devotion | August 26, 2020

Listening. “Let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.” I must admit reading this text brings me back to my childhood...

Daily Devotion | August 25, 2020

Things were missing from the deck. The thief had come in the middle of the night. Clues were left behind in the form of...

Daily Devotion | August 24, 2020

Ironically, the Bible does not give us a ton of detail about heaven. There are a few specific characteristics given, but...

August 23, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship

August 23, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship Scripture - Acts 10:23-48 Message - Rollie Johnson

August 23, 2020 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

August 23, 2020 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship Scripture: Acts 10:23-48 Rollie J

Daily Devotion | August 23, 2020

One of my favorite songs is “10,000 Reasons (Bless The Lord)” by Matt Redman. I love this song because it reminds me that we are all...

Daily Devotion | August 22, 2020

As I was reading the verse from Philippians 2 for today, I was immediately reminded of a hymn which is probably not very well-known but it tells the story...

Daily Devotion | August 21, 2020

Not much needs to be said about this painting. It is self-explanatory. I identify with both figures—the one with the arrows in the back and the one with the bow. How about you?

Daily Devotion | August, 20, 2020

I have been asked this question by so many youth: why do we go to church? And, truly, it is a good question. While most of the time, the youth are just looking for an excuse to...

Daily Devotion | August 19, 2020

Daily Devotion | August 18, 2020

Rounding the long bend on 65th Ave, curving northward I see him walking his faithful dog Teddy. Or maybe, I have it backwards...

Daily Devotion | August 17, 2020

If Abraham is considered the Father of all nations, then Jacob ought to be considered the Father of all swindlers. Even the name Jacob means...

August 16, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship

August 16, 2020 | Celebration Sunday Worship Scripture - Psalm 139:7-10, 1 Kings 19:1-9 Pastor Laurie Neill

August 16, 2020 | Sanctuary Sunday Worship

Daily Devotion | August 16, 2020

A few weeks ago, at Norman Lutheran Church while getting ready for service our youngest daughter Claire was pretending that she was the pastor. She was up in the pulpit...

Daily Devotion | August 15, 2020

When I think of the poor, I think of the first beatitude in Matthew 5, verse 3...

Daily Devotion | August 14, 2020

Daily Devotion | August 13, 2020

Jesus has been off praying on his own and comes to his disciples, walking on top of the water...

Daily Devotion | August 12, 2020

Yesterday as I was walking down Broadway going to grab lunch, I overheard a boy talking to his dad, well more complaining to his dad, about having to do chores...

Daily Devotion | August 11, 2020

Brilliant sunshine poured generously over the landscape. Its warmth and positive cheer were a welcome relief from the...

Daily Devotion | August 10, 2020

Several years ago, I was traveling back from Camp Grafton and decided to visit the graves of my mom and dad, Bonnie and Gordon Mellum...

Daily Devotion | August 9, 2020

I recently was at a Bible study by Priscilla Shirer called Discerning the Voice of God. At the end of the study she told a story...

August 9, 2020 | Sanctuary Worship

Sanctuary Sunday Bulletin: https://www.flcfargo.org/application/files/6815/9673/7084/August_9_2020_Sanctuary_Worship_Bulletin.pdf

August 9, 2020 | Celebration Worship

Celebration Sunday Worship | August 9, 2020 Gospel - Mark 7:1-23 Message - Pastor Marty Tollefson Assisting Pastor - Pastor Laurie Neill Worship Leader - Rollie Johnson Celebration worship bulletin, August 9: https://www.flcfargo.org/application/files/9915/9673/7084/August_9_2020_Celebration_Worship_Bulletin.pdf

Daily Devotion | August 8, 2020

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. This verse from Hebrews 11:1 could ...

Daily Devotion | August 7, 2020

Let’s have a little fun. When Italian pastry chef Matteo Stucchi makes his culinary creations, you can bet ...

Daily Devotion | August 6, 2020

This Gospel text is an interesting one. Jesus is trying to get some “alone time” but is already so popular that he just can’t get away!...

Daily Devotion | August 5, 2020

This week during our staff meeting we did a check in with each other to see how we are doing. I'm not going to share my comments because words came out that are not devotional appropriate. However, they were brutally honest and true...

Daily Devotion | August 4, 2020

Slamming the tailgate of my big Dodge pickup shut, I locked the topper door. After an insanely wild, bucking-bronco-like drive in on some ...

Daily Devotion | August 3, 2020

Since I was a little boy, I have always had a fascination with water. My mother tells the story of when I was ten...

Sanctuary Worship | August 2, 2020

Sanctuary Sunday Worship; Gospel - Mark 7:1-23; Message - Pastor Corey Bjertness

Celebration Worship | August 2, 2020

Celebration Sunday Worship; Gospel - Mark 7:1-23; Message - Pastor Corey Bjertness

Daily Devotion | August 2, 2020

Above is a picture of my oldest daughter’s birthday party. Her younger sister had just blown out her candles...

Daily Devotion | August 1, 2020

As I begin today's devotional message, I need to wish Happy Anniversary to two couples...

Daily Devotion | July 31, 2020

Claude Vignon’s painting, “The Lament of St. Peter,” is a beautiful example of how an artist can use lights and shadows to create a sense of...

Daily Devotion | July 30, 2020

Somehow, when I read this passage from Matthew’s gospel, I can’t help but think about Jed Clampett and the “Beverly Hillbillies.” Now, if you have never seen the show...

Daily Devotion | June 14, 2020

On a Saturday a few weeks ago, Kari and I made a promise. We made several promises on behalf of our beautiful son...

Daily Devotion | July 28, 2020

Daily Devotion | July 27, 2020

Big Coulee Lutheran Church stands a mile away from where I grew up. It closed about forty-two years ago, primarily, because it ran out of people. It continues to be a part of my spiritual landscape. With that said, the church that once gathered in that building no longer exists...

Daily Devotion | July 26, 2020

Many times, in my life I have prayed so hard for something to happen and have had my prayers go seemingly unanswered. Places I thought our family was going to move to over the years and then things falling apart...

Sanctuary Worship | July 26, 2020

Sanctuary Sunday Worship | Scripture - Leviticus 13:1-6, Matthew 8:1-4 | Message - Pastor Marty Tollefson | Assisting Pastor - Pastor Laurie Neill | Minister of Music - Michael Olson

Celebration Worship | July 26, 2020

Celebration Sunday Worship July 26, 2020 Scripture - Leviticus 13:1-6, Matthew 8:1-4 Message - Pastor Marty Tollefson

Daily Devotion | July 25, 2020

Today I'm going to use the second scripture text from the Daily Texts in a most interesting manner: I used to hunger and thirst, particularly hunger...

Daily Devotion | July 24, 2020

Summer—the time of year for flowers! Everyday I linger among my peonies, marigolds, and geraniums, thanking God for their beauty...

Daily Devotion | July 23, 2020

To my dearest children, I am writing to you today to offer you a permission slip. Just like the one you might get...

Daily Devotion | July 22, 2020

We are blessed to have a God who is crazy in love with us. He created us out of love: See what great love God has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! 1 John 3:1 ...

Daily Devotion | July 21, 2020

Do you feel broken? Do you feel beyond repair and restoration? Has the weight of life’s struggles crushed your spirit?

Daily Devotion | July 20, 2020

A couple of weeks ago, Hannah and I watched a movie entitled I Still Believe which was just released this past March. It is a true story about ...

Celebration Worship | July 19, 2020

Celebration Worship Scripture - Luke 10:25-37 Message - Pastor Laurie Neill

Sanctuary Worship | July 19, 2020

Sanctuary Sunday Worship | July 19, 2020 Scripture - Luke 10:25-37 Message - Pastor Laurie Neill

Daily Devotion | July 19, 2020

It is so hard to lose the ones we love. We all say that they are in a better place, they are in heaven. But I also know that it is easy for doubt to creep in. How do we trust in this place that we can’t see ...

Daily Devotion | July 18, 2020

Two Things to Share Today...As I mentioned a few weeks ago, I was doing some cleaning at home. Along the way, I found some "treasures" ...

Daily Devotion | July 17, 2020

When I was at an art retreat in Venice last summer (seems like years ago!), I found myself with a couple of unscheduled hours, so I made my way to a museum to do one of my favorite activities...

Daily Devotion | July 16, 2020

Daily Devotion | July 15, 2020

The first time I saw the above image was at Castaway Camp a few years ago with a bunch of middle schoolers we took to the Eastern North Dakota Synod gathering. We were listening to an incredible speaker ...

Daily Devotion | July 14, 2020

On recent vacation to Portugal and Spain, we encountered many...

Daily Devotion | July 13, 2020

Someone recently asked, “Has this pandemic been a time for pruning?” Great question! Pruning is a process...

Celebration Worship | July 12, 2020

Sunday Celebration Worship | July 12, 2020 Scripture - John 15:1-17 Message - Rollie Johnson

Sanctuary Worship (Live) | July 12, 2020

Sanctuary Worship (Live Stream) | July 12, 2020 Rollie Johnson John 15:1-17

Daily Devotion | July 12, 2020

Last week a classmate of mine shared a video with us as a way to center our day titled, “How Can I Keep from Singing?" It is a NYC virtual choir and orchestra. I was very moved...

Daily Devotion | July 11, 2020

In light of everything going on these days and looking forward to a less-than-certain future, we need all the strength we can muster. I gain much strength from reading....

Daily Devotion | July 10, 2020

This lovely painting of two friends reading together comes from the French impressionist, Pierre Auguste Renoir. His first foray into art was creating designs on...

Daily Devotion | July 9, 2020

I don’t know about you, but I am exhausted. COVID-19 closed much of our country four months ago and, since then...

Daily Devotion | July 8, 2020

We have all experienced grief and loss in our lives. It is difficult to say goodbye, but for us there is hope. Over the most recent years I have been...

Daily Devotion | July 7, 2020

Daily Devotion | July 6, 2020

Last week, we celebrated our daughter’s birthday. Sarah is now nine years old! She is smart, witty, and just a joy to be around. A couple of weeks ago . . .

Celebration Worship | July 5, 2020

Sunday Celebration Worship Scripture - Joshua 23 Message - Pastor Corey Bjertness

Welcome Home FLC

These last few months have been anything but normal, and we as a staff have missed seeing you face-to-face! However, we are grateful that worship and ministry have continued virtually and for the reminder the church is not limited to the walls of a building. . . .

Daily Devotion | July 5, 2020

I’m taking a seminary course on American theology in the 21st century and we are reading the book, “The Long Loneliness” by Dorothy Day. Just the title “The Long Loneliness” speaks volumes . . .

Daily Devotion | July 4, 2020

Reread the text from 2 Corinthians for today and you will see that every one of God's promises is a "Yes" which is very encouraging as we . . .

Daily Devotion | July 3, 2020

“What in the world?” That is what I was thinking when I ran across this artist. These are just a few paintings of . . .

Daily Devotion | July 2, 2020

I heard a story once about a woman whose life took an unfortunate turn. She fell on hard times, got a divorce, lost her family, and sank into a deep depression. She was in desperate . . .

Daily Devotion | July 1, 2020

I remember my first day at Agassiz middle school. I was entering the sixth grade, leaving a small school of maybe 40 children in a grade, and entering a large school with almost 700 children in a grade, and there were . . .

Daily Devotion | June 30, 2020

The thought came to me one evening awhile back. I wanted to bless and affirm my middle daughter . . .

Daily Devotion | June 29, 2020

I don't want you just to sit down at the table. I don't want you just to eat, and be content. I want you to walk out into . . .

Celebration Worship | June 28, 2020

Sunday Celebration Worship Scripture - Romans 12:9-21 Message - Pastor Marty Tollefson

Sanctuary Worship | June 28, 2020

Sanctuary Worship | June 28, 2020 Gospel - Romans 12:9-21 Message - Pastor Marty Tollefson

Daily Devotion | June 28, 2020

I was reading Jeremiah 20:7-1 last week and it reminded me that words hurt. Jeremiah says . . .

Daily Devotion | June 27, 2020

Some of you may have heard this acronym before concerning the word GRACE. . .

Daily Devotion | June 26, 2020

One of the attractions in New York City is a bronze statue called, “Fearless Girl,” sculpted by Kristen Visbal. She is a 50-inch high ponytailed powerhouse with attitude, facing down the famous . . .

Daily Devotion | June 25, 2020

"But First..." | As the time approached for him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem. As they were walking along the road . . .

Daily Devotion | June 24, 2020

In life there is waiting. With the goings on in our world, country, and community it seems like there has been more waiting as of late. What are we waiting for? . . .

Daily Devotion | June 23, 2020

A gorgeous spring day had been birthed for us to enjoy. After a cozy, warming coffee around our morning campfire and downing some delicious and nutritious donuts, it was time for . . .

Sanctuary Worship | June 21, 2020

Sanctuary Worship | June 21, 2020 Gospel - John 14:1-14 Message - Pastor Laurie Neill

Celebration Worship | June 21, 2020

Sunday Celebration Worship June 21, 2020 | John 14:1-14 Message - Pastor Laurie Neill

Daily Devotion | June 21, 2020

Happy Father’s Day to all of the fathers and father figures out there! Today we celebrate you and the care and love you give to . . .

Daily Devotion | June 20, 2020

Since today is the first day of summer at 4:44 PM, I think it's high time to talk about God's majesty. Indeed, we've already had some very hot, humid weather . . .

Daily Devotion | June 19, 2020

Marine artist Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky creates mesmerizing waves and seascapes and has over 6,000 painting devoted to the subject of oceans. An article . . .

Daily Devotion | June 18, 2020

Many people first became aware of Westboro Baptist Church in the early 1990s, when the church began picketing in protest of what they saw as the ills of an ungodly world. Megan was 5 years old when it began . . .

Daily Devotion | June 16, 2020

Meet Dr. Enrique Pinto, my 92-year-old father-in-law who now lives alone in the bustling mega-city of Guadalajara, Mexico. Alone, yet surrounded by some seven million other souls . . .

Celebration Worship | June 14, 2020

Sunday Celebration Worship June 14, 2020 | Genesis 32:22-32 Message - Pastor Corey Bjertness Assisting Pastor - Pastor Laurie Neill

Sanctuary Worship | June 14, 2020

Sunday Sanctuary Worship June 14, 2020 | Genesis 32:22-32 Message - Pastor Corey Bjertness Assisting Pastor - Pastor Laurie Neill

Daily Devotion | June 14, 2020

Wrestling is seemingly part of the air that we breathe. We wrestle with important decisions. We wrestle with what we want to do with our one, holy, precious life...

Daily Devotion | June 13, 2020

I used to get up and go for an early-morning walk about 5:15 a.m. every morning. During the past few weeks, I now go walking right after breakfast...

Daily Devotion | June 12, 2020

I recently discovered a wonderful South African artist named Maria Magdalena Oosthuizen. One website explains her style and motivation: “She paints figurative portraits emanating innocence and hope that . . .

Daily Devotion | June 11, 2020

The captain of the ship looked into the dark night and saw faint lights in the distance. Thinking it was a ship with whom they would soon collide, the captain had his signalman send a message, “Alter your course 10 degrees south.” . . .

Daily Devotion | June 10, 2020

I received a book from a dear friend recently and it has God's fingerprints all over it. God knew just what I was needing and he . . .

Daily Devotion | June 9, 2020

Time. Seems like most of us have had more time of late due to the Covid Crisis. Some have gone crazy with boredom. Others, like me have appreciated the extra time to take care of stuff, work on home projects, cleaning, organizing, and tossing. I have used my time for a few extra weekend camping adventures, turkey hunting, looking for arrowheads and investing lots of time in my many handicraft hobbies. Ministry is mostly a head game . . .

Daily Devotion | June 8, 2020

What does the future hold? Unless you are Captain Oblivious, you must acknowledge the fact the world we live in today is pressurized to a degree we have not seen in many decades. I do not remember a time when every nation, every culture, every individual has been so affected by a single factor. Even in you are not in the cross-hairs of the pandemic, likely you are feeling the secondary effect. So, it is easy to ask, “What does the future hold?” But it is the wrong question. The right question is, “Who holds the future?” I have, for some time, encouraged people to look for the heroes in times of crisis. Keeping our eye on the good happening around us keeps our hearts from being discouraged. There is a greater good at work in the world than the heroic action of many. This higher work is the work of God. God is not silenced nor diminished in the grasp of modernity. Not for a moment. Here are some helpful reminders of who is STILL in charge.

Celebration Worship | June 7, 2020

Preacher - Pastor Stephanie Tollefson Scripture - Exodus 33:11-23

Sanctuary Worship | June 7, 2020

Preacher - Pastor Stephanie Tollefson Scripture - Exodus 33:11-23

Daily Devotion | June 7, 2020

Life is quite a wild ride. Sometimes we are flying high having a great time, other times at the bottom, and at some points in life we are just plain terrified. There are times we have to make a decision . . .

Daily Devotion | June 6, 2020

For over two and a half months, churches everywhere have been "doing worship" in very new and creative manners. It has been wonderful to be a part of that process here at First Lutheran Church. I remember very well Sunday morning, March 22. On that particular Sunday morning . . .

Daily Devotion | June 5, 2020

This striking painting depicts the story of Jacob wrestling with a mysterious stranger in Genesis 32. The stars in the background look down upon Jacob and the stranger, whose identity is . . .

Daily Devotion | June 4, 2020

I once heard a group fitness instructor say “You’re here, you’ve showed up. Don’t sell yourself short now.” The idea is simple: if you’ve already committed the time to be here and present, then why not make the most of it? Don’t check out . . .

Daily Devotion | June 3, 2020

Peace and understanding. These two words have gone through my mind constantly for the last couple weeks. I have never experienced a week like I have this last week ever before in my life. I have been at times hopelessly confused, upset, angry . . .

Daily Devotion | June 2, 2020

This photo popped up on my Facebook page Saturday morning. It was taken by Jon Forness, a gifted and skilled photographer friend. It was reminding me that it was the 10-year anniversary of when my good friend Rory Eidsness and I ran the Fargo Marathon together in May of 2010. . . .

Daily Devotion | June 1, 2020

There are two guys walking along a road that leads to a village . . .

Sanctuary Worship | May 31, 2020

Celebration Worship | May 31, 2020

Daily Devotion | May 31, 2020

My Grandpa Arlo passed away on April 15, 2017. He was one of my favorite people in the world. No matter how hard life got, and it did get hard, he always had a positive attitude and . . .

Daily Devotion | May 30, 2020

Before we talk about persons of sincerity, we should discuss sincerity itself. Here are several definitions . . .

Daily Devotion | May 29, 2020

This Sunday is Pentecost, when the church celebrates the coming of the Holy Spirit. It occurs 50 days after Easter, and the Greek name for 50 is “Pentecost.” The story as told in Acts 2:1-21 is that all the disciples were together when there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind . . .

Daily Devotion | May 28, 2020

“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy." What does this mean? We should fear and love God so that . . .

Daily Devotion | May 27, 2020

I woke up this morning with these words, “For such a time as this.” I thought hmmm is this what the Holy Spirit is giving to me for this week’s devotion? Heaven knows I need something. I can’t do this on my own. All morning I prayed and listened to . . .

Daily Devotion | May 26, 2020

Quietly I cast off from shore and began paddling across the lake. My homebuilt 15' solo cedar-strip canoe silently parted the waters as I aimed the bow towards a narrow channel that led to another corner of the lake. A barred owl called out from the opposite shoreline. Odd I thought for mid-day, but . . .

Daily Devotion | May 24, 2020

Lord, today we remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom that we enjoy every day. They each have . . .

Celebration Worship | May 24, 2020

Sanctuary Worship | May 24, 2020

Daily Devotion | May 23, 2020

Many of you could recite this blessing almost word for word from the book of Numbers . . .

Daily Devotion | May 22, 2020

This painting is done in the style of art called Cubism. You are probably most familiar with Picasso, who pioneered the genre. It was considered to be among the most influential art movements of . . .