“Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching people.” - Luke 5:10b
I hope you’re doing well as we jump into another week! I’ve been thinking a lot about this moment when Jesus tells His disciples that they will be catching people. There’s something that feels real and relatable about this encounter, and I think it is helpful for us today when we dig into it a bit.
So here’s the scene: Simon has just witnessed a miracle. His boat is bursting with fish. But instead of doing a happy dance, he falls on his knees, feeling totally unworthy. Sound familiar? We’ve all had those moments where we think, “God, there’s no way You can use someone like me!” We’re all too aware of our imperfections and our “why me?” moments.
But what does Jesus say? “Do not be afraid.” He doesn’t focus on Simon’s fear or failure; He focuses on the purpose ahead. And guess what? That same invitation is for us. Jesus isn’t waiting for us to be perfect; He’s calling us to step into the calling He’s already placed in us. "You’ll be catching people." Not in the literal fishing way, thank goodness (no nets required!), but in the way of sharing God’s love with others in whatever sphere we find ourselves. Whether it be at work, at home, at church, or even the grocery store.
So, my friends, don’t let fear or doubt hold you back this week. You’re already equipped for the purpose God has for you. Even if you’re not quite sure how it’ll unfold—trust me, God has got it covered.
(and I am waiting to hear your next “fishing story”)
Peace, Pastor Erin
February 16 will be Nick’s last Sunday with us, so please take a moment to say goodbye and wish him well as he embarks on his next adventure. Let’s show our appreciation for his time here and send him off with our blessings for a bright future!
Church Office Closed – Monday, February 17
The church office will be closed on Monday, February 17, in observance of President’s Day.
A draft of the TLC Family Directory is finally ready for review (thank you for your patience)! We want to ensure everyone’s information is correct before finalizing it.
What to Do:
Check Your Information – Click the link below to review the draft directory and confirm your name and details are correct. If your name is missing or changes are needed, let us know.
Review Your Photo – Click the link below to open the folder of current photos. Find your name and see if you’re happy with the photo or if you’d like to update it.
Update Your Photo or Information – If you need to make any updates, please send changes to Leo or Anna at abcwagner12@gmail.com. If you’d like a new photo taken, please find Anna between services.
Deadline for updates: February 28. After that, the directory will be finalized. A digital copy will be available online, and printed copies can be requested from Leo.
Join us for TLC's Lenten Soup Suppers, beginning March 12. These weekly gatherings offer a time of fellowship and reflection as we share a meal together.
If you're interested in contributing a soup supper or joining a team to prepare one for a Wednesday evening during Lent, please sign up at the Welcome Desk. Volunteers to assist with cleanup are also always appreciated!
Join us for good food and great company at this month’s Young at Heart Luncheon on Thursday, February 20, at noon in the Fellowship Hall! Sign up at the Welcome Desk to let us know you’re coming.
Join us on Sunday, February 23, between services as we celebrate Pastor Bruce Johnson and express our heartfelt gratitude for his many years of dedicated service to TLC. This is a special opportunity to honor his ministry and wish him well in his well-deserved retirement. We hope you’ll be there to celebrate with us!
January Blood Pressure Check Schedule
February 16 - 10:00am and Noon in the Prayer Room
Blood pressure checks are available the 1st and 3rd Sundays in the prayer room between services. Our faith community nurse, Karen Jensen, RN, PhD, will be on hand.
Project Understanding is in need of canned and packaged goods, and heavy plastic bags.
City Center is in need of paper towels and toilet paper.
Your support is greatly appreciated. Please place items in the baskets located in the gathering space.
Please join us as we remember and celebrate the life of: April Pike March 15 at 3:00pm Trinity Lutheran Church
February 12 - Joyce Opjorden, Danya Pollard February 13 - Kelly Nolan, Monica Shideler February 14 - Lizajane Manninen February 16 - Sadie Grewe, Steve Keithley, Sara Shipp February 18 - Joshua Jones, Manny Mendoza, Evan Wallace
Please keep the following people in your prayers:
For Healing and Comfort: Tom Jones Carol Coyle Mike Diaz The family of Marie Atmore, at her death The family of April Pike, at her death
'25 Goal based on 2.5%+ over '24 actuals - $548,020.88/52 weeks. '25 YTD Challenge Goal based on 50% over 5 Years (8.5%) - $646,641.45/52 weeks. We are in Year 5
Attendance Week 5, 2025: Individuals in Person - 135 Estimated Individuals Online - 54
Attendance Week 5, 2024: Individuals in Person - 104 Estimated Individuals Online - 65