The Sunday of the Great Commandment
Michael Tide – Trinity XVIII
19 October 2025
Jesus’ Incarnation Secures for Us Life, Forgiveness, and Healing
The Lord does not require us to ascend to Him; in mercy He descends to us (Gen. 28:10–17). The ladder in Jacob’s dream was not for climbing; it was the means by which the Lord came to bless Jacob. This event finds its fulfillment in Christ who descended from His throne to save and bless us. By His incarnation He is the eternal bridge between heaven and earth. “The Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins” (Matt. 9:1–8). The Lord was present in the flesh to absolve the paralytic. Jesus also healed and restored this man’s body. “For where there is forgiveness of sins, there is also life and salvation” (Small Catechism). The Lord still has power on earth to forgive sins. In holy absolution He raises up the new man (Eph. 4:22–28) and bestows the healing medicine which will bring about our resurrection on the Last Day. Thus we say with Jacob, “This is none other than the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven!” (Gen. 28:17)
Parish News
The Altar Flowers donated today by Mr. and Mrs. Jasen Gibbens in honor of Ezekiel Gibbens’ baptism.
Apple Strudel Time! Members of IELC, it’s that time of year! Please pick up your strudels today. They will come frozen and ready to bake to golden perfection whenever you choose! Yum!
Reformation Mittagessen Next Sunday after Divine Service. Bratwurst, sauerkraut, German potato salad, strudel and assorted salads and desserts are on the menu. Make your reservations & food donations on bulletin inserts. Check out the sign-up sheet on the bulletin board if you would like to volunteer to help.
College Bible Study and Meal  Our college students are invited to fellowship, a meal, and Bible Study on Tuesday evenings at 5:30 pm. Members, please check the bulletin board to sign up to bring a meal.
All Saints’ Day Divine Service  will be Sunday, November 2. Please submit your loved one to be named during the Commemoration of the Faithful Departed by completing the bulletin insert or contact the office at 812.232.4972 or stacy.gibbens@ielcth.org before Tuesday, October 28.
The Story of Scripture  Wednesdays, 4:30–5:30 p.m. Strengthen your biblical literacy and grow in your understanding of God’s Word. Each week participants will read 7–9 chapters at home (about one chapter a day). Class time will be devoted to reviewing what was read, answering questions, and connecting the theology of Scripture to our lives today. Together we will move quickly, yet thoughtfully, through the major stories of the Bible, gaining both a big-picture grasp and a deeper appreciation of God’s Word for our life.
Didache Saturday, October 25 at 11:30 am. Interested in learning more about the essentials of Lutheran doctrine and practice? You are invited to join Pastor’s Didache class. Both members and guests are invited to attend. RSVP to Pastor if you are interested.
Choir Practice  Thursdays at 6:45pm and Sundays in the Loft at 10 A.M. For more details, please text or call Colleen Davis at 812-878-1145 or email colleen.davis@indstate.edu.
This Week at Immanuel
Today  The Sunday of the Great Commandment
- Sunday School /Adult Bible Study 9:00 am
- Divine Service, 10:30 am
Wednesday
- The Story of Scripture, 4:30 p.m
Thursday
- Catechesis 2025: Learning By Heart, 4:00-4:45 pm
- Choir Practice, 6:45 pm
Saturday
- Didache, 11:30 am
Next Sunday  Reformation Day (Observed)
- Sunday School/Adult Bible Study, 9:00 am
- Divine Service, 10:30 am
- Reformation Mittagessen, 12:00 pm
Pastor’s Open Office Hours
- Wednesday, 3:45-4:45 pm
- Friday, 3:45-4:45 pm
