But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ - by grace you have been saved - and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. ~ Ephesians 2:4-9, ESV
That we may obtain this faith, the Ministry of Teaching the Gospel and administering the Sacraments was instituted. For through the Word and Sacraments, as through instruments, the Holy Ghost is given, who works faith; where and when it pleases God, in them that hear the Gospel, to wit, that God, not for our own merits, but for Christ's sake, justifies those who believe that they are received into grace for Christ's sake. ~ Article V, Augsburg Confession
For over 130 years of God's grace at Martinus Lutheran Church, we thank the Lord who has brought us this far by faith. Though we are a little flock, we know the Lord Jesus continues to watch over those who gather on this windy South Dakota hill top. Today we walk together united in the faith trusting in our crucified and risen Savior who is present among us through His gifts of Word and Sacrament. In an ever changing uncertain world we stand as one family in Christ clinging to the Word of God that stands forever receiving God's unchanging grace and being upheld by the one who is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
The Lord Jesus be with you, and you are always welcome with us.
