January Divine Service theme

Just believe

How does each sermon connect to this theme?

The Chief Apostle’s yearly theme, and the focal point for the beginning of the year sermon, comes from the story of Jairus’ daughter in Mark 5. Faced with the news of his daughter’s death, Jesus challenges Jairus to “Don’t be afraid; just believe!” In this new year, we can take this challenge to heart: in the face of devastating news (5:35), overwhelmed with a chorus of negativity or untruths (5:38), confronted with ridicule or insult (5:40), when we don’t know where else to turn (5:23), Jesus tells us - “Don’t

be afraid; just believe!” Each sermon this month will continue to encourage us to just believe!

We are invited to celebrate Epiphany in our midweek sermon, where we can join with Simeon in believing that He is the Savior. In the second Sunday, we find Jesus in the temple, about His Father’s business, where it becomes clear that He is the Son. On the third Sunday, the sermon will start with Jesus’ encounter with John the Baptist, but will continue to explore the names ascribed to Him by His first disciples, who come to believe that He is God.

On the final Sunday, through Jesus’ miracle at the wedding in Cana, we come to understand that He is here, and when Jesus is here, His identity is revealed, His glory is revealed, and wonder. enters our very earthly, human situations. Returning to Mark 5, Jesus taught Jairus in those dark moments to approach uncertainty with hope in the future, a calm composure even when surrounded by turmoil, and confident trust in Him.

May these actions guide us in the months and weeks ahead in 2026.

Wishing you a blessed New Year!

John S. Schnabel