The Twenty-Third Sunday after Trinity
08 November 2026
Render to God the things of God
When confronted with the civic duty of paying taxes, our Lord Jesus, Wisdom incarnate, walked “in the way of righteousness, in the paths of justice” (Prov. 8:20) and discerned that wisdom “is better than jewels” and “better than gold, even fine gold” (Prov. 8:11, 19). When we set our minds on earthly things, such as wealth and passing glory, our “end is destruction” (Phil. 3:19). However, our humble and prudent Lord has rendered “to God the things that are God’s” (Matt. 22:21), namely, perfect fear, love, and trust, as well as the complete sacrifice for our sin. In so doing, He also rendered to Caesar the things of honor and justice, submitting to the law of the land that put Him on the cross. The true “riches and honor are with [Him],” because “enduring wealth and righteousness” (Prov. 8:18) are found in our heavenly citizenship from which “we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” He “will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself” (Phil. 3:20-21).
Parish News
Altar Flowers are donated today by Mr. and Mrs. Richard Monday in honor of their wedding anniversary.
Christmas Poinsettia Order Form is on the table in the Narthex. Poinsettias are $12. Please write your name under “donated by” and, if you would like, the name of a person you would like to remember or honor.
Lutherhaus this evening, 7:00–8:30 pm. Lutherhaus offers a place of Christian leisure for high school youth marked by games, conversation, and prayer, with phones intentionally set aside to cultivate our incarnational lives together. All youth born in 2012 or earlier are warmly invited to join us. Contact Pastor for more information.
College Bible Study and Meal 5:30 pm. All college students are welcome to fellowship, a meal, and Bible Study on Tuesday evenings. After this Tuesday, we will be taking a break until after the first of the year.
Story of Scripture Thursdays at 5:30 pm. Strengthen your biblical literacy and grow in your understanding of God’s Word. Each week, participants will read 6-10 chapters at home. Together we will move quickly, yet thoughtfully, through the major stories of the Bible. For November 12, please read John 7-12 in advance.
Didache Every Sunday at 3:00 pm Pastor will be leading a new series of adult catechesis classes. The course is designed both for those considering membership at Immanuel and for members who wish to deepen their understanding of the Christian faith. Members are welcome to attend the entire series or join us for individual sessions according to your interests. The topic for today is Genesis I: The Creation of the World.
Annual Casual Planning Gathering after Divine Service next Sunday, November 15. This year’s gathering will feature a presentation from the LCMS Foundation about opportunities for Immanuel’s long-term financial stewardship and support of future ministry. We will also briefly review and revise the preliminary 2027 church calendar and revisit the congregational goals displayed year-round outside the church office. Come share your thoughts and help us plan for the year ahead! A light lunch will be provided.
This Week at Immanuel
Today Twenty-Third Sunday after Trinity
- Sunday School/Adult Bible Study, 9:00 am
- Divine Service, 10:30 am
- Didache, 3:00 pm
- Lutherhaus, 7:00 pm
Tuesday
- College Bible Study and Meal, 5:30 pm
Thursday
- Story of Scripture, 5:30 pm
- Choir Rehearsal, 6:45 pm
Next Sunday Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Trinity
- Sunday School /Adult Bible Study 9:00 am
- Divine Service, 10:30 am
- Annual Casual Planning Gathering, 12:00 pm
- Didache, 3:00 pm
Pastor’s Open Office Hours
- Wednesday, 3:30-4:30 pm
- Friday, 3:30-4:30 pm
