Sermons | Living Hope and Christ the King ELCA Lutheran Churches

Hypocrisy and Grace | March 25, 2026 - Midweek Lent

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 14:20:48 +0000

Tonight we wrap up our midweek community Lenten worship series "Tell Me Something Good" with a profound story of the forgiveness and grace Jesus offers. When the religious leaders drag before Jesus a woman caught in adultery, he refuses to condemn her, instead pointing out their hypocrisy and choosing to offer grace, mercy, and forgiveness to her.

The Scripture readings for tonight's Lenten service are Matthew 7:1-5, Psalm 130, Matthew 23:1-7, 23-24, and the story of the woman caught in adultery in John 8:2-11. Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Frustration & Grief | March 22, 2026

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 14:41:41 +0000

Have you ever wondered why God takes so long to act? In this Sunday’s Gospel story, Jesus hears his friend Lazarus is sick—and then waits two days before going to him. By the time he arrives, it seems too late. Lazarus is dead. No wonder the people say, “Lord, if you had been here…” Sometimes faith sounds like frustration.

The good news is that Jesus doesn’t turn away from those questions. Instead, Jesus weeps with the grieving family. And then he calls Lazarus out of the tomb, back to life. This week we wrestle with the hard questions of faith and are reminded of the hope of resurrection.

The Scripture readings for this fifth Sunday in Lent are Psalm 130, and John 11:1-45. Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Seeing & Unseeing - Pastor Chris Manke | March 15, 2026

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 18:30:47 +0000

Today's message explores the story of Jesus healing the man born blind, inviting us to consider how Jesus invites us to see differently. Thank you to Rev. Chris Manke, Executive Director for Outreach for Hope, for leading worship and sharing the message this Sunday while Pastor Daniel is away for the weekend.

The Scripture readings for this fourth Sunday in Lent are Ephesians 5:8-14, Psalm 23, and John 9:1-41. Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Surprise at the Well | March 8, 2026

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 14:41:47 +0000

In John 4, a Samaritan woman's routine trip to the well turns into a life-changing encounter with Jesus. By offering her “living water,” he breaks cultural barriers, revealing the surprise of God’s grace. Today's Lent 3 sermon from Pastor Daniel invites you to notice God's holy interruptions in your own life.

This week's Scripture readings are Exodus 17:1-7, Psalm 95, and John 4:5-42. Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Brave | March 1, 2026

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 16:10:56 +0000

God tells Abram to go without giving him a destination. God calls young Jeremiah before he feels ready. Nicodemus risks his reputation to ask honest questions. In each of today’s story, bravery isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about trusting the One who calls.

Today’s sermon kicks off this year’s Lutheran Schools Week theme of “Brave” by exploring how God equips the called, walks with us into the unknown, and gives us courage to follow. Do not be afraid, for God is with you. Be brave.

This week's Scripture readings are Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121, Jeremiah 1:1-8, and John 3:1-17. Read the text of this message at https://danielflucke.com/brave. Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Temptation & Identity | February 22, 2026

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 20:50:03 +0000

On this first Sunday of Lent, as we begin our 40-day journey to the cross, we hear about Jesus' 40 days in the wilderness. Following his baptism, the Holy Spirit leads Jesus to the wilderness where he faces temptations challenging his identity.

A sermon reflecting on how temptation works, where we look for our worth, and the powerful promise spoken over us in baptism: you are God’s beloved. Be reminded of who you are—and whose you are.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Ash Wednesday: I Don't Know Why...Perhaps I'll Die | February 18, 2026

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 15:42:47 +0000

Welcome to Ash Wednesday! Too often the church's message (especially on days like Ash Wednesday) can come across as bad news and condemnation. Sin is real, and we are called to repent. But there is good news too: Jesus offers forgiveness for our sin. A sermon on law, gospel, and the classic children's story, "There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly."

Today's Scripture readings are Romans 7:15-25a, Psalm 51:1-17, and John 8:31–36. Due to the livestream not working, this week's Scripture and sermon have been re-recorded. Read the text of this Ash Wednesday sermon at https://danielflucke.com/ash-wednesday-2026/

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

A Vision of Transfiguration | February 15, 2026

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 15:36:42 +0000

Transitioning from the season of Epiphany to Lent, this week we hear the story of Jesus' transfiguration. In this mountaintop moment, the disciples glimpse Jesus' true glory, a vision which will shape how the disciples will understand the events to come as Jesus is arrested, killed, and resurrected. These stories continue to shape how we encounter the world as people of faith. As Richard Lischer writes, "You can live a long time off a vision."

The Scripture readings for this third Sunday after the Epiphany are 2 Peter 1:16-21; Psalm 2:1-8, and Matthew 17:1-9. This sermon draws on Richard Lischer's article "Seeing with Clarity" in The Christian Century. The full sermon text and citations are posted here: https://danielflucke.com/transfiguration-vision/

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Jesus' Sermon on the Mount | February 8, 2026

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 16:13:06 +0000

Welcome to worship! Today’s message is a little different than normal. Rather than sharing a full sermon on a few verses of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, today’s message includes a brief introduction from Pastor Daniel, then the full text of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount from Matthew chapters 5, 6, and 7. Included in this podcast is also an extended welcome to the communion table and the post-communion blessing, both reflecting on Jesus’ words.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Jesus' Project Kingdom of Heaven - Pastor Wendy Wirth-Brock | February 1, 2026

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 17:30:49 +0000

In his “Project Kingdom of Heaven,” Jesus rejects the world's standard of "might makes right." Instead, he calls us as his followers to participate in God's work of transforming this world ruled by violent, armed force into a world ruled by the power of gracious love.

Thank you to Rev. Wendy Wirth-Brock for leading worship and sharing the message this Sunday while Pastor Daniel is at the ELCA Youth Ministry Network Extravaganza event in St. Louis.

The Scripture readings for this fourth Sunday after the Epiphany are Micah 6:1-8, Psalm 15, and Matthew 5:1-12. Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Annual Meetings, Unity, and Mission | January 25, 2026

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 17:09:00 +0000

On this annual meeting Sunday, we hear Paul make a passionate plea for the church to be united in Christ, knit together in the same mind and the same purpose. Yes, church annual meetings are bureaucratic procedures, but on another level, they offer an opportunity to practice living out this call for unity.

Today's sermon is also a reminder that unity does not mean conformity, but rather working towards the same goal with the same purpose. Our unity is found in our identity as the body of Christ, and when one part of the body is wounded, the whole body hurts.

The Scripture readings for this third Sunday after the Epiphany are Isaiah 9:1-4; Psalm 27:1, 4-9; 1 Corinthians 1:10-18; and Matthew 4:12-23.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Paul's Letter of Encouragement | January 18, 2026

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 15:12:27 +0000

As both Christ the King and Living Hope prepare to hold annual congregational meetings next Sunday, today's reading from Paul's first letter to the church in Corinth offers encouragement and a powerful reminder that we're not doing this on our own. In his greeting to the Corinthians, Paul reminds his readers (and us!) that God has given everything needed for the church to carry out its (our!) mission. Our strength as a church and as Christians in daily life comes from God, and God is faithful.

Today's Scripture readings for this second Sunday after the Epiphany are 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Psalm 40:1-8, and John 1:29-42.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Jesus' Baptismal Identity | January 11, 2026

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 15:37:20 +0000

For us as Christians, baptism is a means of grace, a gift from God offering forgiveness of sin and a welcome into God's family. But if baptism is for forgiveness, why does Jesus need it? Today's sermon from Pastor Daniel Flucke for Baptism of Our Lord Sunday explores baptism as identity. Jesus comes to identify with us—not to receive forgiveness, but to stand with humanity, offering grace. In a divided and overwhelming world, baptism reminds us who we are and whose we are.

Today's Scripture readings are Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 29, and Jesus' baptism in Matthew 3:13-17.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Epiphany, Peace, and Venezuela | January 4, 2026

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 20:52:11 +0000

Epiphany reminds us that God's light shines in the whole world. Reflecting on the Magi, King Herod, and the weekend's news of US intervention in Venezuela, this week's sermon from Pastor Daniel Flucke reminds us that there is no “them” in God’s kingdom—only a world deeply loved by God. As Christians, we are always called to pray for peace.

Today's Scripture readings are Ephesians 3:1-12, Isaiah 60:1-6, and Matthew 2:1-12. The text of the sermon is available here: https://danielflucke.com/venezuela-peace-sermon/

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Joseph and Herod | December 28, 2025

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 15:03:18 +0000

Merry Christmas! On this first Sunday of Christmas, we're looking at the lives lived by two lesser-known characters in the Christmas story who could not be more different from one another: Joseph & Herod. One pursues power at all costs, and the other gives of himself to protect another. Although this story of Herod's massacre of the innocents seems like an abrupt turn from the joy of Christmas, we see in this story the sort of world God chose to enter.

Today's Scripture readings are Isaiah 63:7-9, Psalm 148, and Matthew 2:13-23.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Christmas Eve: Wonder Lost | December 24, 2025

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 21:58:09 +0000

Merry Christmas! Tonight's Christmas Eve sermon focuses on the message of good news of great joy for all the people which the angels gave to the shepherds. But what if you don't feel great joy this Christmas? What if not everything feels merry and bright for you right now? Perhaps you are exactly who this news is for.

Tonight's Scripture reading is Luke 2:1-20.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Advent 4: Rejoicing at Peace | December 21, 2025

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 17:08:07 +0000

This final Sunday of Advent is all about proclaiming good news. Heaven is breaking into earth, and God is turning the world upside down. We eagerly await the fulfilment of God's promised reign of peace. In worship, we'll hear Mary respond in song to the miracles God is working. God is entering the world—let us rejoice and sing with joy!

Today's Scripture readings are Titus 2:11-14 and Luke 1:26-56.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Advent 3: Joyfully Pointing to Light | December 14, 2025

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 15:54:52 +0000

How did you come to faith? Someone loved you and Jesus enough to introduce you to him! Today's sermon for the Third Sunday of Advent reflects on John the Baptist as a witness who points beyond himself to the true Light of the world. God uses ordinary people like us to share extraordinary good news. As we light the candle of joy, we’re reminded that we are not the light—but we are sent to testify to it.

Today's Scripture readings are Isaiah 61:10-11, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, and John 1:6-8, 19-28.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Advent 2: Love's Surprising Interruption | December 7, 2025

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 15:44:41 +0000

This Sunday we continue our theme of Heaven and Earth by looking at the messenger sent to prepare the way, John the Baptist. In the wilderness, John proclaims that God is on the way, a savior is coming. So, get ready! Prepare the way!

Just continuing in the path we're on requires no preparation. But God interrupts our lives. God claims us in baptism, declaring we belong not only to ourselves, but to our Creator. And because we belong to God, we are called to repent, to change our ways, to let God work in us and transform us.

At Living Hope, we celebrated this baptismal promise in a special way with Weston Franzen's baptism, in which he is claimed in the waters of baptism, washed clean, and named forever as a child of God.

Today's Scripture readings are 2 Peter 3:8-15a; Psalm 139:1-2, 5, 7-12, 16-18; and Mark 1:1-8. The sermon text is available here: https://danielflucke.com/advent-love-interrupts/

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Advent 1: Meanwhile, We Hope and Wait | November 30, 2025

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 18:54:55 +0000

This Sunday, we enter into the season of Advent, a season of waiting, watching, and preparing for Jesus.

We often think about our participation in church and worship as us taking time for God, but Advent is about God taking time for us. Advent is about God refusing to leave us alone, and instead relentlessly insisting on breaking into our world. In Jesus Christ, God is bringing heaven to earth and changing everything.

Over the next four weeks, our Advent series “Heaven and Earth” celebrates and anticipates the earth-shaking, life-transforming good news that God is coming to us. Watch out. Get ready. God is on the way.

Today's Scripture readings are Isaiah 64:1-9, Psalm 80:3-7, and Mark 13:24-37. The text of the sermon is available at https://danielflucke.com/advent-hope-wait/.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

A Crucified King | November 23, 2025 - Christ the King Sunday

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 20:26:25 +0000

Today is Christ the King Sunday, the festival at the conclusion of the church year when we recognize Jesus as our Lord, our King who reigns over creation. Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s promise to send a redeemer to rescue God’s people and set them free from oppression. He is the long-awaited Messiah, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Yet in our Gospel reading from Luke 23, we find Jesus not seated on a king’s throne, but hanging on a cross. This king’s power is revealed not in domination, but in sacrifice as he lays down his life for the world. This scene of humiliation, suffering, and death reveals the triumph of God’s love over human empires built on violence and fear.

Today's Scripture readings are Jeremiah 23:1-6, Colossians 1:13-20, and Luke 23:33-43.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

What If the World is Ending? | November 16, 2025

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 16:33:25 +0000

Don't panic! It's just the end of the world. As we near the end of the church year, the focus of our readings in worship moves forward to the end times. In this Sunday's Gospel from Luke 21, Jesus warns about the signs of the apocalypse and the end of the world—and then he says we don't need to worry about it.

As Christians, our hope is in One who is greater than this world. Even if everything else we know falls apart, Jesus assures us God will still be watching over us. The Holy Spirit is still active in our lives, working in and through us. Instead of panicking, we are to continue doing what is right, because God is still good, and God is still faithful.

Today's Scripture readings are Malachi 4:1-2a, Psalm 98, 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13, and Luke 21:5-19.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Adiaphora & Eternal Life | November 9, 2025

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 22:14:38 +0000

In this Sunday's Gospel reading from Luke 20, a group of Sadducees attempts to drag Jesus into a debate over the logistics of how the afterlife will work. But as Jesus points out, the questioners are missing the point. Their concerns and so many of our own worries in life fade in comparison to the promise of the Gospel: I know that my Redeemer lives.

As the hymn we'll sing declares, "What comfort this sweet sentence gives." Last week, we remembered the lives of the saints of our church who have died. This week, we proclaim the good news that the end is not death, but resurrection and new life. Thanks be to God!

Today's Scripture readings are Job 19:23-27a; Psalm 145:1-5, 17-21; and Luke 20:27-38.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

How to Be a Saint | November 2, 2025

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 15:48:32 +0000

In this All Saints Day message, Pastor Daniel explores what it really means to be a saint. You don’t awarded the title of saint for giving away over 38% of your income or volunteering at least twice a week; sainthood is about being loved by God. Every follower of Jesus is both sinner and saint, called to love, serve, and share God’s grace in daily life.

Today's Scripture readings are Ephesians 1:11-23, Psalm 149, and Luke 6:20-31.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Our Mission as a Reforming Church | October 26, 2025

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 14:58:48 +0000

On this Reformation Sunday, Pastor Daniel Flucke's sermon explores the new mission statement recently adopted by Christ the King: “Rooted in Christ, Nurturing Faith, Loving and Serving All.” What does it mean to be rooted in Christ? How are we nurturing faith? What does loving and serving all look like?

Today's Scripture readings are Colossians 2:6-8, 12-14; Psalm 67; and Luke 4:16-21 as well as Luke 4:22-30 within the sermon.

Living Hope's service for this week was a lessons and hymns service shaped around the five solas of the Reformation and did not include a full sermon.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Wrestling with Doubt: Why Do the Innocent Suffer? | October 19, 2025

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 19:27:16 +0000

If God is good and powerful, why do bad things happen? This Sunday in worship, we conclude our series Wrestling with Doubt, Finding Faith by looking at one more unavoidable, unanswerable question (and this one’s a big one): Why do the innocent suffer?

This week's sermon explores the problem of suffering, challenges common assumptions about God, and shares a hope rooted in Christ’s promise that love and life have the final word.

Today's Scripture readings are Genesis 1:26-31, Psalm 139:7-18, Romans 5:1-8, and Luke 13:1-5.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Wrestling with Doubt: Does Prayer Work? | October 12, 2025

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 19:39:30 +0000

As we continue our series on Wrestling with Doubt, Finding Faith, we’re looking this week at the question of prayer. “Does Prayer Work?” Jesus invites his followers to pray, yet often, we wonder if our prayers are heard. Is God even listening? Or are we just talking to ourselves? Why aren’t our well-intentioned prayers always answered?

There’s a lot to wrestle with this week, and this sermon doesn't have clear-cut, satisfying answers. Nevertheless, join us as we dig into the purpose of prayer, and wrestle with how we faithfully go to God in prayer. Today's Scripture readings are 2 Corinthians 12:7b-10; Psalm 22:1-5, 19; and Matthew 22:18-22.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Wrestling with Doubt: Is Heaven Real? | October 5, 2025

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 19:34:00 +0000

In John 14, Jesus promises he will prepare a place for us in his Father’s house. It’s a beautiful, comforting promise. Throughout the Bible, we’re given glimpses of what that eternal home God has prepared might look like, and yet believing in heaven still requires a lot of faith. After all, no one’s ever gone there and come back!

As we continue Wrestling with Doubt, Finding Faith, this morning we're exploring the question, Is Heaven Real? What does the Bible tell us about life after death?

Today's Scripture readings are Revelation 21:1-6; Psalm 16:1, 7-11; 2 Corinthians 5:1-8; and John 6:35-40.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Wrestling with Doubt: Who's In and Who's Out? | September 28, 2025

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 13:57:00 +0000

As we continue Wrestling with Doubt, Finding Faith, we're spending two Sundays exploring one of the biggest parts of our faith: Life after death. Next week we’ll look at what the Bible says about heaven, but this week we start with the other potential destination.

As Christians, we don’t need to be afraid of hell, because we are saved by grace through faith, redeemed by Jesus Christ. Because of the cross, you are saved now and forever. That’s the powerful, comforting promise given to all Christians, all who call on the name of Jesus for salvation.

But…what about people who don’t share our faith? Is heaven limited to just those who have consciously chosen to trust in Jesus? What about people who never had even an opportunity to believe, who never heard the good news of the Gospel? What about those who lived their whole lives before Jesus, or before Christianity spread to their part of the world?

Wrestling with the question of Who’s In and Who’s Out? may not be comfortable, but it has eternal significance!

Today's Scripture readings are Isaiah 25:6-9 , Psalm 22:25-31, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, and John 17:1-5. Read the text of the sermon here.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Wrestling with Doubt: The Good Book? | September 21, 2025

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 15:50:37 +0000

This week's sermon from Pastor Daniel continues our series Wrestling with Doubt, Finding Faith, exploring some of the big questions of faith. Today's topic is The Good Book? Wrestling with the Bible, and we're exploring what it means to claim the Bible as the “inspired Word of God and the authoritative source and norm of our proclamation, faith, and life” (that’s from our church constitution!)? Can we just reject the parts we don’t like? If we want to hold on to the good news of Jesus, do we have to accept everything in the Bible as literally, factually accurate?

Today's Scripture readings are 2 Timothy 3:14-17, Psalm 119:103-108, and John 14:1-7. The text of the sermon is available here.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Wrestling with Doubt: Is There a God? | September 14, 2025

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 16:39:54 +0000

This week's sermon is the first in a six-week series exploring some of the big questions of faith, titled Wrestling with Doubt, Finding Faith, based on Adam Hamilton's book of the same name. We may not like to admit our doubts, but the reality is we all have doubts and questions, aspects of faith we wonder about, and if there’s anywhere we ought to be open to wrestling with doubts and questions, it’s church.

This initial sermon in the series engages with a foundational question: “Is There a God?” Although we generally take the answer for granted, it’s a question worth exploring, and a question with which many in our world wrestle, including church people!

The Scriptures for this week are Genesis 1:1-2:4a (read in parts from The Message), Psalm 19:1-4, and John 1:1-5, 9-13. The text of the sermon is available here.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Transitions & Faith Basics | September 7, 2025

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 18:51:25 +0000

Welcome to September! It's a busy weekend at church, with new Bibles for some of our kids, blessing teachers and students for the new school year, service projects for God's Work, Our Hands" Sunday, and most importantly, a baptism at Christ the King.

In today's Scripture readings from 1 John 3:1-3, 16-24 and Luke 15:1-10, we're going back to some basics of our faith: We are God's beloved children, called to reflect God's love by serving our neighbors. And when we wander away, God comes to find us and bring us home. Thanks be to God!

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Pastor Brian Halverson | August 31, 2025

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 15:36:32 +0000

Thank you to Pastor Brian Halverson for leading worship and sharing a message this Sunday while Pastor Daniel is away over Labor Day weekend. Today's Scripture readings are Proverbs 25:6-7, Psalm 112, and Luke 14:1, 7-14.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Sabbath Healing | August 24, 2025

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 16:38:58 +0000

As we near the end of summer, this week’s Scripture readings from Isaiah 58:9-14 and Luke 13:10-17 invite us to consider the importance of Sabbath rest time. God gives us the gift of Sabbath because we need rest. In the midst of life’s busyness, it’s important to take time to pause and reflect, to spend time in worship giving thanks for what God’s done. The prophet Isaiah makes it clear how much God values Sabbath, calling on God’s people to “refrain from trampling the Sabbath, from pursuing your own interests on my holy day.”

And yet, Sabbath rest cannot be allowed to become a legalistic excuse for us to avoid helping others. When Jesus sees a woman in need, he heals her, even though it’s a Sabbath. He’s willing to endure controversy and criticism for the sake of loving one of God’s children.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Fred Walls | August 17, 2025

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 18:10:42 +0000

Our circumstances are constantly changing, but one thing that will never change is a God in heaven who loves us. Thank you to Christ the King member Fred Walls for sharing a sermon this Sunday while Pastor Daniel was on vacation. Our circumstances can change our view of God, yet in all situations, we are still called by Jesus to love God and love people.

Today's Scripture readings are Isaiah 40:1-10, Psalm 143, and Matthew 11:1-19.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Hope, Fear, and Faith | August 10, 2025

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 15:54:28 +0000

This Sunday’s Psalm concludes with a prayer: “Let your steadfast love, O Lord, be upon us, even as we hope in you.” (Psalm 33:22) Our hope as people of God is rooted in God’s steadfast love. Even as the world around us changes, even as yet another story gives evidence of the brokenness and suffering around us, we trust that God is still faithful. God is still at work. God is still good.

In our Gospel reading, Jesus tells us, “Do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” The hope we cling to as Christians is not based on how much we have in this world, but on the promise that we are God’s children for all eternity. Sometimes that hope can be hard to see, but it is ultimately a deeper foundation for life than anything this world has to offer.

Today's Scripture readings are Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16; Psalm 33:12-22; and Luke 12:32-40. The text of this message is available at https://danielflucke.com/hope-faith-fear/.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Pastor Jon Jacobs | August 3, 2025

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 15:50:51 +0000

Thank you to Rev. Jon Jacobs for leading worship and sharing an inspiring message on Jesus' "Parable of the Rich Fool" with us this morning while Pastor Daniel is at a Teens Encounter Christ retreat weekend. Today's Scripture readings are Psalm 49:1-12 and Luke 12:13-21.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Ecumenical Worship in the Park: Pastor Jim Schleif | July 27, 2025

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 20:25:24 +0000

This Sunday we gathered at Kolbach Park in Port Washington for a community worship service with Christ the King, Living Hope, First Congregational Church, and Grand Avenue United Methodist Church. While we were able to record Pastor Jim Schleif's sermon on Luke 11:1-13, even after enhancing the audio, it's still not great quality. But we had a great time worshiping outdoors with our neighbors and praying together!

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Revealing the Invisible God | July 20, 2025

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 17:05:57 +0000

Jesus is the image of the invisible God, the One who makes God known to us. God is not only the Creator of the cosmos; God is personal, knowable, and loving. Today's Scripture readings are Colossians 1:15-28 and the familiar story of Jesus' visit to Mary and Martha in Luke 10:38-42.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Pastor Brian Halverson | July 13, 2025

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 17:01:01 +0000

Thank you to Pastor Brian Halverson for leading worship and sharing a message on Jesus' parable of the Good Samaritan while Pastor Daniel was in St. Louis on the Lighthouse Youth summer mission trip. Today's Scripture reading is Luke 10:25-37.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Travel Light | July 6, 2025

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 16:58:20 +0000

As followers of Jesus, we are people who are sent out into the world. In this Sunday's Gospel reading from Luke 10:1-11, Jesus instructs his disciples to travel light as they go from place to place proclaiming the good news of God's kingdom.

The mission is not easy–Jesus warns, "I'm sending you out like lambs into the midst of wolves"–but the harvest is plentiful and the work has eternal significance. Unprepared, facing rejection, the disciples nonetheless proclaim, "The kingdom of God has come near." That's good news our world needs to hear–and it's good news trusted to us to proclaim.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/. The text of the sermon is posted at https://danielflucke.com/travel-light-2025/.

Spiritual Fruits of Sanctification | June 29, 2025

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 17:23:20 +0000

Today in worship, we had the joy of celebrating a baptism at Christ the King! The sermon (recorded at Living Hope) reflect on the Holy Spirit's work of justification and sanctification, and talk about Paul's image of the Fruits of the Spirit and what a life rooted in baptism looks like, according to Galatians 5. The Apostle Paul reminds us that we are called to freedom in Christ, not for the purposes of self-indulgence, but to love and serve our neighbors. The life of faith bears fruits of the Spirit: Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

Today’s Scripture readings are Galatians 5:1, 13-25; Psalm 16; and Luke 9:51-62. The text of the sermon is posted at https://danielflucke.com/sanctification-fruits/.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Gospel Means God Loves You | June 22, 2025

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 20:19:51 +0000

After a week off from regular sermons due to our June 15 joint VBS carnival worship service, welcome back to our regular sermon podcast! Today's sermon from Pastor Daniel Flucke on the good news of the gospel is a little shorter than usual as today's worship services also feature a guest speaker sharing about Breaking the Chains Church, an ELCA congregation inside the Milwaukee Felmers Chaney Correctional Center, and our June monthly ministry partner. During VBS, we also did a service project to make 80 hygiene kits that we gave to Breaking the Chains Church for people being released from incarceration.

Today's Scripture readings are Galatians 3:23-29, Psalm 22:19-28, and Luke 8:26-39. The text of the sermon is posted at https://danielflucke.com/gospel-means-god-loves-you/.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Showing Us God | June 8, 2025

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 20:07:27 +0000

Today is Pentecost, the festival on which we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit and the formation of the Church. In today's Scripture, we hear both Jesus' promise of the Holy Spirit to be an Advocate for the disciples after he is no longer physically with them, and the fulfillment of that promise in Acts 2.

Although we confess our belief in the Holy Spirit each time we say the Creeds together, this third member of the Trinity is often overlooked. And yet, the Holy Spirit's work and presence with us is essential to our faith. The Holy Spirit's work is to stir up faith. The Holy Spirit is the one guiding us in life, nudging us, pointing us back to Jesus.

Today's Scripture readings are Romans 8:14-17; Psalm 104:24-34, 35b; Acts 2:1-21; and John 14:1-2, 11, 15-16, 25-27. The text of the sermon is posted at https://danielflucke.com/pentecost-2025/.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Prison, Chains, and Freedom | June 1, 2025

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 18:42:30 +0000

Today's message focuses on our call as Christians to care for those who are imprisoned and introduces our June monthly ministry partner, Breaking the Chains Church.

Before ascending to heaven, Jesus called us to continue following his commands as witnesses to his love. When we love, serve, and care for the least among us, Jesus says, it’s as if we are doing it to him. We love God whom we cannot see by loving our neighbors who are visible to us.

Today's Scripture readings are Hebrews 13:1-3, Psalm 68:4-10, Acts 16:16-34, and Matthew 25:37-40

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Trusting God to Guide | May 25, 2025

Tue, 27 May 2025 16:13:54 +0000

As our congregations prepare for conversations about our mission and vision, today's message focuses on discerning God’s guidance for all of us together as a congregation and as individual followers of Jesus. Looking at three Scripture passages from Acts 16:6-15, Psalm 67, and John 5:1-9, we explore how God might be calling us into the future. The text of this sermon is available at https://danielflucke.com/god-guides/.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Peter, Cornelius, and God's Law of Love | May 18, 2025

Mon, 19 May 2025 19:07:24 +0000

What are the rules for being Christian? Scripture gives us hundreds of laws to follow, most of which we completely ignore. Of course, as Christians, the foundation of our faith is forgiveness found in Jesus. By the grace of God, we are forgiven when we sin and break God's law.

But shouldn't we be at least trying to follow the rules God lays out in the Bible? We still value some Scriptural commands (the 10 Commandments being at the top of the list), yet we ignore hundreds of other detailed instructions. Why?

Today's sermon explores one of the most important stories in the Bible. Acts 10-11 records a divine vision of inclusion given to Peter, telling him "What God has made clean, let no one call unclean." God's love revealed in Jesus fulfills the requirements of the Law.

Today's Scripture readings are Revelation 21:1-6, Psalm 148, in addition to the majority of Acts 10-11, which is included in the sermon.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Remembering the Life of Tabitha | May 11, 2025

Mon, 12 May 2025 16:42:31 +0000

Today's message for the fourth Sunday in Easter focuses on the story of Tabitha from Acts 9:36-43 and the good life and legacy she lived - even before Peter raised her from the dead!

Our Scripture readings are Acts 9:36-43, Psalm 23, and John 10:22-30. The text of this sermon is available at https://danielflucke.com/tabitha-sermon-2025/.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Feed My Sheep | May 4, 2025

Mon, 05 May 2025 14:25:49 +0000

On this third Sunday in Easter, the Scripture reading from John 21:1-19 invites us to both continue celebrating Jesus' resurrection and to recognize Jesus' presence among us in the midst of ordinary life. After the excitement of the resurrection, the disciples go fishing, then Jesus invites them to a picnic on the beach. Today's sermon explore Jesus' command to Peter and to us: "Feed my sheep." How do we live out that command as God's people in this hurting and broken world?

The text of this sermon is available at danielflucke.com/feed-my-sheep.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Lutherans Restoring Creation: Rev. Dr. Barbara Rossing | April 27, 2025

Sun, 27 Apr 2025 16:30:00 +0000

On this second Sunday of Easter, Rev. Dr. Barbara Rossing offers a sermon in recognition of Earth Day, courtesy of Lutherans Restoring Creation, a grassroots movement promoting care for creation in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. A notable scholar on the book of Revelation, her sermon connects the hope found in Revelation to our call to care for creation today.

Today's Scripture readings (not included in today's podcast) are Revelation 1:4-8, Psalm 1--, and John 20:19-31.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Easter Sunday: Grief & Hope | April 20, 2025

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 14:42:39 +0000

Happy Easter! Today, we celebrate the greatest news in history: Jesus is alive! The tomb is empty! Death is defeated! Today's sermon encourages us to look to both the cross and the empty tomb, reflecting on Easter's intersection of grief and hope.

The year's Scripture readings for Easter are Isaiah 65:17-25; Psalm 118:1, 17-24; and Luke 24:1-12. The text of this sermon is available at https://danielflucke.com/easter-2025-grief-hope/.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Imagine the Palms | April 13, 2025

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 17:08:25 +0000

Today's Palm Sunday sermon attempts to capture some of the emotional significance of Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem as a humble king bringing peace, rejecting the violent ways of this world.

Today's Scripture readings are Luke 19:29-40; Colossians 1:15-20; Psalm 118:1-2, 20-29; and Luke 21:37-22:2. The text of this sermon is available at https://danielflucke.com/imagine-the-palms/.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Encountering Jesus | April 6, 2025

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 15:16:47 +0000

This week, we hear the story of Zacchaeus, a vertically-challenged tax collector whose life was changed by an encounter with Jesus, as well as the testimony of the apostle Paul's encounter with Jesus. These examples of Jesus seeing and changing the most unlikely of people invite us to consider, how has encountering Jesus changed your life?

The Scripture readings for this service are 1 Timothy 1:12-17 and Luke 19:1-10.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Enough to Follow the Good Shepherd | April 2, 2025

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 19:02:09 +0000

During our ecumenical midweek Lenten services this year, we're focusing on the theme of God being Enough. This week's service is hosted by Christ the King, and the sermon explores Psalm 23's promise that the Good Shepherd leads and provides for us. Following the Good Shepherd is enough.

The Scripture readings for this service are Psalm 23 and John 10:7-16.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Amazing Grace of Being Lost and Found | March 30, 2025

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 15:48:11 +0000

Today's sermon continues our Lenten theme of Everything [in] Between by looking at what it means to be "Lost & Found." In particular, we hear Jesus describe God as a shepherd who goes out to search for a missing sheep. Jesus' promise is that no matter how far you run from God, no matter how many times you turn your back and wander away, no matter how lost you might feel, God never gives up on you. God never stops looking for you. And when you are found by God, all heaven rejoices!

Today's Scripture readings are Ezekiel 34:11-16, Psalm 51:1-10, and the parable of the lost sheep in Luke 15:1-7. The text of this sermon is available at https://danielflucke.com/lost-and-found/.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Parable of the Fig Tree: Rest & Growth | March 23, 2025

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 18:26:40 +0000

In this third Sunday in Lent, we hear Jesus tell a parable about an impatient landowner and an unproductive fig tree. Is the fig tree a waste of space and soil? Or is it an illustration of the value of rest and the folly of impatience? And where is God in this story?

Today's Scripture readings are Colossians 1:3-6, 9-14, Psalm 40:1-8, and Luke 13:6-9.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Mary & Martha: Faith & Works | March 16, 2025

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 14:58:28 +0000

On this second week in Lend, we continue A Sanctified Art's Lenten series Everything [in] Between from by looking at the favorite Lutheran topic of the tension between faith & works. In the story of Mary and Martha, Mary seems to exemplify faith by sitting and learning at Jesus' feet, while Martha spends her time engaging in good works of hospitality. Yet as followers of Jesus, we are called to both action and reflection. We are gathered in worship and sent out to live out our faith in service to our neighbors, in Jesus' name.

Today's Scripture readings are Ephesians 2:4-10, James 2:14-18, and Luke 10:38-42. Read the text of this week's sermon at https://danielflucke.com/mary-martha-faith-works/.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Midweek Lent: Enough Manna | March 12, 2025

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 14:40:56 +0000

This week's midweek ecumenical Lent service is hosted by Living Hope. Tonight's sermon explore's Scripture’s promise that God is enough by focusing on the story of God providing manna for the Israelites as they wandered in the wilderness.

The Scripture readings for this service are Psalm 145:14b-21 and Exodus 16:1-5, 11-21, 31, 35.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Stranger & Neighbor - The Good Samaritan | March 9, 2025

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 16:39:12 +0000

This year for Lent, Christ the King and Living Hope are using a theme from A Sanctified Art called Everything [in] Between: Meeting God in the Midst of Extremes. Each Sunday's message will explore two seemingly opposed binaries, but as we look at stories from Luke's Gospel, we'll find that God is present in between, in the full spectrum of life, not merely the black and the white. For this first Sunday in Lent, the theme is Stranger & Neighbor.

The Scripture readings for this week are Galatians 3:23-29, Psalm 25:1-10, and the Parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25-37. Read the text of this week's sermon at https://danielflucke.com/good-samaritan-neighbor/.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Ash Wednesday 2025: Dust is Enough | March 5, 2025

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 16:28:41 +0000

Tonight's Ash Wednesday worship introduces both our midweek ecumenical services, we're focusing on the theme Enough and our Sunday theme Everything [in] Between from A Sanctified Art.

In our daily lives, we hear message after message of scarcity. We’re told all kinds of ways we are lacking. We’re short on time and resources; we don’t have the resources we need. Often, those messages are accompanied by an invitation to buy something, but products don’t solve the problem. In this year’s midweek Lenten series, we are exploring stories in Scripture of how God is ENOUGH. God provides what we need and more for life.

The Scripture readings for tonight's joint Ash Wednesday service are Isaiah 58:1-10, Psalm 51:1-17, and Luke 9:51-62.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Transfiguration: God is Present | March 2, 2025

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 16:16:53 +0000

Today is Transfiguration Sunday, a turning point in the church year. Up on a mountain, Jesus' disciples begin to realize on a whole new level who it is they’re following. Jesus is not just a great teacher, not just another wise rabbi or holy faith healer; he is God with them. And his presence with them transforms their lives. May our lives similarly be transformed by the Holy Spirit’s presence with us!

Today's Scripture readings are Exodus 34:29-35, Psalm 99, 2 Corinthians 3:12-4:2, and Luke 9:28-36.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Different Because of Jesus | February 23, 2025

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 16:54:17 +0000

As people of God, we are created in God's image as spiritual beings and renewed with the promise of new life. Rooted in that identity in Christ, we are set free to live in a way that looks different than the world expects. In this Sunday's reading from Luke 6:27-38, Jesus calls us to radical new ways of living like loving our enemies, giving to everyone who asks of us, and forgiving as we have been forgiven.

In short, as Luke 6:31 says, "Do to others as you would have them do to you." Sounds simple, right? But to live God's way consistently is more than any of us can do on our own. Thanks be to God for giving us the strength to persevere and for grace when we fall short!

The other Scripture readings for the day are 1 Corinthians 15:35-38, 42-50 and Psalm 37:1-11, 39-40. The text of this sermon is available at https://danielflucke.com/because-of-jesus/.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Pastor Dave Schoob | February 26, 2025

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 16:13:19 +0000

Thank you to Pastor Dave Schoob from Trinity Lutheran Church in West Bend for leading us in worship today while Pastor Daniel attended the Quake youth conference with some of our teenagers. Today's Scripture readings are Jeremiah 17:5-10 and Luke 6:17-26.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Calling Flawed Followers | February 9, 2025

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 15:46:53 +0000

This Sunday's Gospel reading is a perhaps familiar story of Jesus calling disciples to follow him. But rather than picking the elite of society, the cream of the crop of potential recruits, Jesus chooses a few ordinary fishermen. It’s a surprising choice for starting a movement, but it’s consistent with the way God typically works. Over and over in Scripture, we read stories of God choosing flawed people. As a church full of ordinary, flawed people, that’s good news for us!

Today's Scripture readings are Isaiah 6:1-9, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, and Luke 5:1-11.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Controversial Love | February 2, 2025

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 18:05:05 +0000

Last Sunday, we heard Jesus’ first sermon, a message in which he laid out his mission to proclaim the good news of God’s reign to all people. Today, we hear the second half of that reading, in which Jesus’ hearers move from enjoying his message to attempting to throw him off a cliff – it’s quite a transition! Today's sermon explores our call as Christians to share the good news of Jesus with love, even when that message is controversial.

Our Scripture readings are Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, and Luke 4:21-30. The text of this sermon is available online at https://danielflucke.com/controversial-love/.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Pastor Brad Brown | January 26, 2025

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 22:35:18 +0000

Thank you to Pastor Brad Brown for leading worship today while Pastor Daniel attended the ELCA Youth Ministry Network Extravaganza. Today's Scripture readings are 1 Corinthains 12:12-31a, Psalm 19, and Luke 4:14-21.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Do Whatever Jesus Tells You | January 19, 2025

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 20:45:41 +0000

God gives many and varied spiritual gifts to the church, calling us all to use our gifts for the common good. Everyone has something to offer, and everyone's talents, abilities, and gifts are needed for us to do the work God calls us to. The key is to follow the directions Mary gives to the servants at the wedding in Cana, "Do whatever he tells you."

Today's Scripture readings are 1 Corinthians 12:1-11 and John 2:1-11. The text of this sermon is available at https://danielflucke.com/do-whatever-he-tells-you/

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Baptismal Art | January 12, 2025

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 21:30:00 +0000

For the last couple of weeks, we’ve celebrated the birth of the baby Jesus. In this Sunday’s Scripture readings, we find the Jesus all grown up and ready to begin his public ministry. And as an adult, Jesus’ first recorded act is to be baptized.

Through his baptism, Jesus takes his place with humanity. He identifies with the crowds of people coming to John to be baptized. We see that Jesus is truly Emmanuel, God with us. God has entered our world, offering grace, hope, and love.

Today's Scripture readings are Isaiah 43:1-7, Acts 8:14-17, and Luke 3:15-17, 21-22.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Epiphany Inclusion | January 5, 2024

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 16:51:00 +0000

Happy New Year! This week in worship, we wrap up the Christmas season with the celebration of Epiphany, looking at the story in Matthew 2:1-12 of Magi from the East coming to worship the baby Jesus. These foreigners symbolize the good news that God's grace and love are for all people, not just a group of insiders. As Paul declares in Ephesians 3, God has made us all members of the same body and sharers in the promise in Christ Jesus through the Gospel.

Today's Scripture readings are Isaiah 60:1-6; Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14; Ephesians 3:1-12; and Matthew 2:1-12. The text of this week's message is available at https://danielflucke.com/epiphany-inclusion/.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Christmas Eve: Grace Is Found in the Manger | December 24, 2024

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 16:48:33 +0000

Merry Christmas! Tonight, we hear the story of God's grace entering the world in the person of Jesus Christ, born in Bethlehem and laid in a manger. Tonight's Scripture readings are the Christmas story from Luke 2:1-20 as well as Titus 2:11-14, and the text of this sermon is available at https://danielflucke.com/christmas-eve-2024/

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Grace Brings Us Joy | December 22, 2024

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 20:33:12 +0000

On this final Sunday in Advent, we hear Mary’s song, a song of joy as she proclaims the ways her son will change the world.

In the midst of the overwhelming evidence of this world’s brokenness, Mary proclaims that God is at work. And God’s grace brings us joy. Because of what God is doing, we can join Mary in her song. Because of God’s grace, we can live with joy and hope no matter what our circumstances may be.

This week's Scripture readings are Micah 5:2-5a, Psalm 80:1-7, and Luke 1:39-55.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Grace Brings Us Together | December 15, 2024

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 15:41:39 +0000

In this third week of Advent, John the Baptist calls for repentance. The crowds that hear him agree that change is needed, but they wonder, "What should we do?" Looking at the brokenness in the world around us, we wonder the same.

The answer, John says, is to love our neighbors. When we follow John's instructions to turn from our sin and greed, when those of us who have two coats give one away, when we give from our abundance, the world is blessed. Turning from sin to live God's way gives abundant opportunities for rejoicing!

This week's Scripture readings are Zephaniah 3:14-20, Isaiah 12:2-6, Philippians 4:4-7, and Luke 3:7-18. The text of this sermon is posted at https://danielflucke.com/grace-brings-us-together/.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

God Prepares Us for Grace | December 8, 2024

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 16:31:24 +0000

The season of Advent is about preparing the way for Jesus. In this time of waiting, we prepare our hearts to receive the King of Kings as he comes to us as a little child. There’s a paradox as we hear God’s messengers call us to prepare to receive the Messiah, while also recognizing that it is God who prepares us for grace. God comes to us whether we are ready or not.

Today's Scripture readings are Malachi 3:1-4, Luke 1:68-79, and Luke 3:1-6

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

God's Grace Is For Us | December 1, 2024

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 18:02:06 +0000

This Sunday, we enter the season of Advent. Our Advent theme this year is “Grace-Filled Beginnings” and over these next four weeks, we’ll be exploring the significance of God’s grace in our lives as we prepare for the birth of Jesus, who is love and grace incarnate.

This week, our focus is “God’s Grace is for Us.” In the busyness of the holiday season, it’s easy to forget what it is we’re getting ready to celebrate. The miracle of Christmas—and thus, the point of Advent—is that God chooses to come and live among God’s people. When the days seem short and the nights long, when life feels disjointed and chaotic, we hold on to the hope of Advent: Christ is coming.

Today's Scripture readings are Jeremiah 33:14-16, Psalm 25:1-10, 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13, and Luke 21:25-36.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Reign of Christ Church Year | November 24, 2024

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 17:32:31 +0000

This week's worship service is a bit different than usual. On this final Sunday of the church calendar, our service walks through each liturgical season, reflecting on God's presence with us in all parts of life. The service was a mixture of lessons, reflections, and hymns, but I've re-recorded just the reflections and lessons for you, our podcast listeners.

Today's Scripture readings are Luke 3:1-6, Luke 2:1-7, Isaiah 60:1-5, John 12:12-16, Mark 15:15b-20, 37-39, 46-47; John 20:11-18, Acts 2:1-4, Luke 10:29-37, and Matthew 25:31-40

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

A Penultimate Apocalypse | November 17, 2024

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 19:43:15 +0000

This Sunday’s Gospel reading from Mark 13 has Jesus making some gloomy-sounding predictions about the future. Buildings will be destroyed, nations will rise against nations, there will be famines, earthquakes, and similar apocalyptic happenings. It's a scary prophecy to hear and think about!

But Jesus doesn't say these things simply to scare his disciples. He says it to encourage them—and us. All those struggles are real. We shouldn't be surprised, because if you look at the world around us, we're experiencing the things Jesus predicted. And not just now, as if this is finally the end times, but for all of human history. Suffering and disaster are not new phenomena.

Jesus makes a promise: Apocalyptic disasters are not the end. Suffering is not the end. Something better is coming: God's kingdom. We are given the promise of new life, life with Jesus that begins now and continues for all eternity. And in the disasters and catastrophes and suffering of this world, Jesus is with us. This is a word of hope!

Today's Scripture readings are Hebrews 10:11-25, Psalm 16, and Mark 13:1-8.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Exploiting the Widow | November 10, 2024

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 16:43:09 +0000

November is often a month focused on giving and gratitude, and this Sunday offers what appears to be the perfect opening to talk about stewardship: The story in Mark 12:38-44 of a poor widow putting her last two cents into the temple offering. And yet, there’s more going on in this story than meets the eye.

Rather than a simple invitation for us to give more, Jesus calls us in this story to ask some tough questions about who we are as a church and even as a society. This sermon wrestles with our call as followers of Jesus to stand up for the poor, the marginalized, and those society overlooks—and our complicity as part of that same society.

Today's Scripture readings are 1 Kings 17:8-16, Psalm 146, and Mark 12:38-44.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

All Saints Sunday | November 3, 2024

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 21:08:31 +0000

On All Saints Sunday, we remember and honor all those who have preceded us on the journey of faith. Our Scripture readings call us to focus on the central command that unites us as God's people, the command to love God with all that we are and to love our neighbors as ourselves.

This command and the basic confession that Jesus is Lord are what unite us with the great cloud of witnesses who have gone before us. Together as a church, we build on their legacy of faith.

Today's Scripture readings are Deuteronomy 6:1-9, Psalm 119:1-8, & Mark 12:28-34.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Reformation & Confirmation | October 27, 2024

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 16:28:39 +0000

This Sunday, we had the joy of confirming six youth as they affirmed their baptisms. Each of them selected a confirmation verse they found meaningful, so the sermon touches on each of their verses as well as the story of Martin Luther and the Reformation.

Today's Scripture readings are Romans 3:19-28, Psalm 46, and Mark 10:46-52.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Prayer, Action, and Summer Service Trip | October 20, 2024

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 16:20:26 +0000

This message is pretty brief, as it's really just an introduction to showing the congregations a video recapping Lighthouse Youth Ministry's summer service trip. You can watch the trip video at LighthouseYouth.org.

Today's Scripture readings are James 5:13-20, Psalm 19:7-14, and Mark 9:38-50.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

PRAY Like Jesus: Listen | October 13, 2024

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 20:55:35 +0000

In this fifth and final week of our "PRAY Like Jesus" series, we're focusing on listening to God. Prayer is meant to be talking with God, not just talking to God. How do we hear God's voice and discern God's will?

Today's Scripture readings are Proverbs 2:1-8, Psalm 119:97-106, and John 10:1-10, 27-30.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

PRAY Like Jesus: Yield | October 6, 2024

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 15:40:07 +0000

This is week four of our series, "PRAY Like Jesus" looking at the Lord's Prayer, and today's theme is yielding to God in prayer.

While God does answer our prayers, sometimes the response isn’t a simple “Yes.” Praying for God’s will to be done might mean accepting that our will won’t be done.

Today's Scripture readings are Proverbs 3:1-8, Psalm 85, and John 15:1-8.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

PRAY Like Jesus: Ask | September 29, 2024

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 15:40:18 +0000

Today's theme is asking in prayer. Asking is a tricky subject, because God is not a vending machine. Just because we ask for something doesn’t mean God will give us everything we want. At the same time, Jesus tells us God delights in giving gifts to God’s children, and God invites us to bring all our cares and concerns in prayer.

Today's Scripture readings are Philippians 4:4-7, Psalm 86:1-10, and Luke 11:1-13.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

PRAY Like Jesus: Repent | September 22, 2024

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 14:36:52 +0000

This Sunday, we continue our sermon series on prayer by exploring the vital practice of confession. Jesus invites us to pray, “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us" but what does it mean to repent? Why is forgiveness important? How do we truly forgive others? And what’s a “trespass” anyway?

Today's Scripture readings are 1 John 1:5-2:6, Psalm 103:6-13, and Matthew 18:21-35.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

PRAY Like Jesus: Praise | September 15, 2024

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 19:23:15 +0000

This week, we begin a new sermon series on prayer, diving into The Lord’s Prayer and uncovering its deeper meanings. Our focus is on the theme of gratitude, praising God, and recognizing God as our Father, as we consider the words Jesus taught us: “Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name.” What an awesome privilege we have to come and pray to the Creator of the cosmos, who calls us to approach as beloved children!

Today's Scripture readings are Exodus 3:11-17, Psalm 136:1-12, and Luke 17:11-19.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Pastor Steve Wolfheil | September 8, 2024

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 15:26:17 +0000

Thank you to Pastor Steve Wolfheil for filling in on very short notice and leading worship today while Pastor Daniel is sidelined with covid. Today is God's Work, Our Hands Sunday, and our Scripture readings are James 3:1-12, Psalm 116:1-9, and Mark 8:27-38.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Pastor Jon Breimeier | September 1, 2024

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 20:34:04 +0000

Thank you to Pastor Jon Breimeier for leading worship while Pastor Daniel was away for Labor Day weekend. Today's Scripture readings are Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-9; Psalm 15; James 1:17-27; and Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-21.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Difficult Teachings About Bread | August 25, 2024

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 20:05:23 +0000

This Sunday, we wrap up the summer with one more reading about Jesus as the bread of life. It’s language that we’re used to from celebrating Holy Communion every Sunday, but for those first hearing Jesus’ teaching (and still for newcomers today), the idea of Jesus telling us to “eat my flesh and drink my blood” (John 6:56) is a tough teaching to try to understand.

Today's sermon wrestles with how we understand Jesus as our nourishment and source of life, especially in the ways he promises to show up in the ordinary things of communion.

Today's Scripture readings are Ephesians 6:10-20 and John 6:56-69. The text of this sermon is available at https://danielflucke.com/difficult-bread-teachings/.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Feeding 5,000 Grocery Store Shopping | August 11, 2024

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:09:59 +0000

In Jesus' feeding of the multitude, we see that whatever little we have to offer is enough for Jesus to use. As part of worship today, we put our faith into action by traveling as a church down the road to Piggly Wiggly and purchasing food for the food pantry. Is it enough to solve hunger in our community? No, but we trust God can multiply what we offer, and we are grateful to be part of the work God is doing in bringing about the heavenly realm where no one goes hungry.

Today's Scripture readings are 2 Kings 4:42-44 and John 6:1-14.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Living Hope: Andy Krueger | August 4, 2024

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 15:44:00 +0000

Welcome to worship! Today's service is led by Living Hope member Andy Krueger while Pastor Daniel is away at a youth retreat weekend. Our Scripture readings for today are Exodus 16:2-4, 9-16; Psalm 78:23-29; Ephesians 4:1-16; and John 6:24-35.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Christ the King Lay Messages | August 4, 2024

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 15:36:04 +0000

Welcome to worship! Today's service is led by Christ the King members Jan Nealy, Fern Rathsack, and Robin Honish while Pastor Daniel is away at a youth retreat weekend. Our Scripture readings for today are Exodus 16:2-4, 9-16; Ephesians 4:1-7, 11-16; and John 6:24-35.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Justice Together | July 28, 2024

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 02:33:49 +0000

This Sunday, we wrap up our July series, Together, by looking at our call to pursue Justice Together. In his first recorded sermon, Jesus says he has come to proclaim the coming of God's kingdom, release for the captives, freedom for the oppressed, and good news for the poor. God's kingdom will be a reign of justice and peace. And as God's people, we are called to join in Jesus' mission!

In our work together as a congregation, as a wider church, and as individual followers of Jesus, we seek to enact God's reign, pursuing justice so that everyone may live a just and free life, with equal access to the abundance of God's creation, especially the least of these who are so often overlooked by our world's systems of exploitation and injustice.

Today's Scripture readings are Amos 5:21-24, Psalm 9:13-20, and Luke 4:14-30. The text of today's message is available at https://danielflucke.com/justice-together/.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Created Together | July 21, 2024

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 16:04:11 +0000

This Sunday in worship, we continue our series Together by looking at how we are Created Together. You have something in common with everyone you meet: Like you, they are created by God and bear God's image. We'll hear how Jesus calls us to love our neighbors—no exceptions. Even when they don't seem very lovable. Even when they are different than us. Even when they don't seem very loving to us.

Today's Scripture readings are Ephesians 2:8-22, Psalm 139:13-18, and Luke 10:25-37. The text of today's message is available at https://danielflucke.com/created-together/.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Serve Together | July 14, 2024

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 15:57:34 +0000

This is the second week of our July series, Together, exploring how Jesus offers us a different path than the division and hatred our culture insists on. This week, we’re looking at how Jesus calls us to Serve Together. As followers of Christ, we are called not to seek earthly power, but to use our strength to serve our neighbors. We follow the example of the One “who came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45)

Today’s Scripture readings are Galatians 5:13-26; Psalm 37:3-9, 27; and Mark 10:35-45. The text of this sermon is available at https://danielflucke.com/serve-together/.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Stronger Together | July 7, 2024

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 19:13:34 +0000

This Sunday, we begin a new series, Together, exploring how Jesus offers us a different path than the division and hatred our culture insists on. This week, we're looking at how we are Stronger Together. Although there are many issues on which we may faithfully disagree, we are united as a community of faith in caring for one another and blessing our neighbors in Jesus' name.

Today's Scripture readings are Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, Psalms 133 & 134, Hebrews 10:19-25, and John 17:13-23. Read the text of this sermon at https://danielflucke.com/stronger-together/.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

All God's Creatures VBS Celebration Worship | June 30, 2024

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 19:22:24 +0000

This week's worship service looks a bit different, as it was a joint worship celebrating the VBS held last week by both Christ the King and Living Hope as well as Here We Grow (Living Hope’s preschool/daycare ministry). Our theme was All God’s Creatures, and the worship service was shaped around the four daily themes from VBS: God Creates Me, God Protects Me, God is with Me, and God Knows Me.

This podcast includes three of the Scripture readings and brief messages from Pastor Daniel (the one not included was reading the story of Noah's Ark from the Spark Children's Story Bible).

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Questions and Calmed Storms | June 23, 2024

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 20:09:51 +0000

In today's Gospel lesson from Mark 4:35-41, we hear about Jesus and the disciples caught in a storm while crossing the Sea of Galilee. In the middle of the storm, Jesus is in the back of the boat taking a nap. The disciples ask him, "Don't you care that we're perishing?" And Jesus wakes up and says to the storm, "Peace, be still."

The disciples are relieved, but they also ask, "Who is this that even the wind and the waves obey him?" As Jesus demonstrates God's power over the chaos of the wind and sea, we wonder the same question. Who is this Jesus we follow? Where is he in the storms of our lives?

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

God Grows Seeds | June 16, 2024

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 19:26:12 +0000

In today’s Gospel reading from Mark 4:26-34, Jesus compares the Kingdom of God to a seed sown by a farmer. The seed grows, even though the farmer does very little. It’s not a particularly dramatic illustration, but perhaps that’s part of Jesus’ point.

God’s kingdom grows in the small, ordinary acts of love we offer. Our call as Christians and as church is to do the next right thing, acting faithfully, and trusting God to provide the growth.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Creation and Fall | June 9, 2024

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 18:46:35 +0000

In the beginning, God created the world and saw that it was good. Creation was perfect, with all living in harmony. And yet, if we look around at our world today, it is abundantly clear that we are not living in paradise. This world is broken.

So what happened? In this sermon, Pastor Daniel Flucke looks at the Bible's explanation for how we got here, the reason for "the human condition" we find ourselves in today. That's right, we're talking about sin. Join us as we go back to the Garden of Eden and explore how humanity's rebellion against God and desire to go our own way continues to impact our lives and world today.

Today's Scripture readings are Genesis 2:4-9, 15-17; 3:1-15; Psalm 121; and Mark 3:20-35.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

God's Call | June 2, 2024

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 19:00:54 +0000

One of the challenges of the many Biblical stories of God calling people to follow is that while we believe God has a call for each person, most of us don’t get to hear God's audible voice like Samuel. Moses gets a burning bush, and Mary has an angel show up, but often in our experience, God’s call is not that dramatic.

Perhaps one of the reasons we don't notice God calling is because we're not listening. If we aren't paying attention, it's easy to miss God's call or mistake it for something else. For us, spending time in prayer, worshipping with other Christians, and becoming more familiar with the Biblical stories of how God calls and acts equip us to recognize God's call. Then when we do recognize God's quiet voice calling, we can respond with Samuel, "Speak Lord, for your servant is listening."

A sermon on 1 Samuel 3:1-10.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Worshiping the Mystery | Trinity Sunday, May 26, 2024

Tue, 28 May 2024 20:26:49 +0000

In this Trinity Sunday sermon, Pastor Daniel Flucke focuses on the concept of God as Trinity, Three-in-One. The doctrine of Trinity is a core part of our confession of faith, it is ultimately a human attempt to comprehend a God who is beyond the limits of human comprehension.

Our worship services are practice for what we’re going to be doing for all eternity: Praising the God who creates, saves, and sustains us and all of creation. We gather to glorify God for who God is, even and perhaps especially for the aspects of God that are beyond our comprehension. Thanks be to God that we serve One who is greater than we can imagine, yet chooses to be know to us in love.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Pentecost | May 19, 2024

Tue, 21 May 2024 01:26:03 +0000

It's Pentecost! Today, we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit and the formation of the Church. In this sermon, Pastor Daniel Flucke explores both Jesus' promise of the Holy Spirit to be an Advocate for the disciples after he is no longer physically with them, and the fulfillment of that promise in Acts 2.

Each year we celebrate Pentecost as the birthday of the Church because nearly 2,000 years later, the Holy Spirit is still at work among us, enabling us to be Jesus' hands and feet in the world. The Holy Spirit comes to the apostles, reinvigorating them after Jesus' ascension and sending them out into the world. May we listen to the Holy Spirit at work in, on, and through us this week as we seek to faithfully follow Jesus together!

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Ascension Sunday | May 12, 2024

Mon, 13 May 2024 17:33:06 +0000

On this final Sunday of the Easter season, we will hear the story of Jesus' ascension. While this is a lesser-known holiday ("holy day"), it is an essential part of the story of Jesus' earthly ministry, and there are some significant implications for our faith and life today. Although Jesus ascends into heaven, God's work in this world continues through the Holy Spirit, whose coming we will celebrate next week at Pentecost.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

All You Need Is Love | May 5, 2024

Tue, 07 May 2024 19:30:17 +0000

In the limited time Jesus has with his disciples in John 15 before his betrayal and crucifixion, Jesus' focus is on love. Love one another as I have loved you. And remember that you did not choose me, but I chose you. A sermon on abiding in Jesus' love as his disciples. Today's Gospel reading is John 15:9-17.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Including the Ethiopian Eunuch | April 28, 2024

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 16:11:37 +0000

Today's sermon focuses on a slightly obscure but extremely important Bible story from Acts 8 about Philip encountering an Ethiopian eunuch. Despite a whole list of reasons this person seems to be an outsider, the Holy Spirit directs Philip to approach and share the good news of Jesus with him, revealing that God's love is for him too.

It's a wonderful lesson for us today about the extravagant, unexpected love of Jesus overcoming human obstacles. The man asks what prevents him from being baptized, and the answer is nothing. Nothing can keep us from God's love when the Holy Spirit is at work!

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Love and Sacrifice and Sheep | April 21, 2024

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 15:17:26 +0000

Today’s Good Shepherd Sunday sermon explores the question, “What does love look like?” In 1st John 3:16, we read: “We know love by this, that he laid down his life for us—and we ought to lay down our lives for one another.”

Love involves sacrifice. It involves giving up something. It involves laying down our lives for one another, for our friends and our neighbors and even our enemies, as Christ laid down his life for us. It means giving up some of our freedom to follow, like sheep being led by a shepherd. It means trusting that the Good Shepherd—the one who gives up his life for the sheep—knows the path and is leading us on it, safely home. Today's Scripture readings are 1 John 3:16-24, the familiar words of Psalm 23, and John 10:11-18.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Peace Be With You | April 14, 2024

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 15:01:27 +0000

In today’s sermon on Luke 24:36b-48, we continue the story of that first Easter Sunday, exploring the significance of Jesus' greeting of "Peace be with you.” More than earthly security, Jesus offers spiritual peace and empowerment to face life’s challenges. The peace Jesus gives overcomes the fears and dangers of this world.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Pr. Jon Breimeier | April 7, 2024

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 16:37:13 +0000

Today's service is led by Rev. Jon Breimeier, and we're looking at the story of "Doubting Thomas," the marks on the risen Jesus, and the marks of the church. Our Scripture readings are Acts 4:32-35 and Luke 24:36b-48.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Good News, Fear, Terror, and Amazement | Easter Sunday 2024

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 16:37:38 +0000

Christ is risen! In Mark’s gospel, the Easter story ends with fear and uncertainty, but the cliffhanger ending invites us into the story. God is doing something new in our world, even today. Christ is risen!

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Maundy Thursday Footwashing | March 28, 2024

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 16:11:36 +0000

Welcome to Maundy Thursday worship. In tonight's service, we hear the story of the Last Supper and Jesus washing his disciples' feet. Tonight's Scripture reading is John 13:1-17, 31b-35.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

A New Covenant | March 17, 2024

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 16:41:43 +0000

This Sunday's sermon focuses on God’s promise of a new covenant. This new covenant will be written on the people’s hearts, and unlike previous covenants that the people broke, keeping this covenant will be entirely up to God.

Several thousand years after Jeremiah proclaims this covenant, we know that it is ultimately fulfilled by Jesus. God has indeed brought us salvation through Jesus’ death on the cross and resurrection at Easter. Thanks be to God!

Today's Scripture readings are Jeremiah 31:31-34 and John 12:20-33.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Community on the Margins | March 13, 2024

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 21:24:13 +0000

It's Christ the King's turn to host our midweek Lenten worship, and tonight, our topic is "Community with Those on the Margins." We're looking at a strange story of Jesus casting a demon into a herd of pigs, and rejoicing that God's love crosses human boundaries to those the world overlooks or gives up on. Tonight's Scripture readings are Galatians 3:23-29 and Mark 5:1-20.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Gospel, Law, and Grace | March 10, 2024

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 15:51:12 +0000

Today's service includes some of the clearest presentations of Gospel (good news) in all of Scripture. Ephesians 2:8 declares that our salvation comes to us by grace through faith, as a gift from God, not the result of any good works we do. We are set free from the obligation to keep the law to achieve salvation!

Likewise, John 3:16-17 tells us of God’s great love in sending Jesus not to condemn the world (as we deserved) but in order to save the world. Good news and amazing grace indeed!

Today’s sermon contrasts the promise of gospel with the idea of law, especially the 10 Commandments, which we heard in last week’s service. As we consider those commandments (and the rest of the law in Scripture), we recognize and confess that we always fall short of keeping them. God’s law condemns us, pointing out how we inevitably miss the mark of living righteously.

Today’s Scripture readings are Ephesians 2:1-10, Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22, and John 3:14-21. This sermon from Pastor Daniel Flucke also includes the video “Life in Six Words: The GOSPEL” from Dare 2 Share Ministries. Watch the video and learn more at lifein6words.com.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Covenant, Law, and Gospel | March 3, 2024

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 15:56:16 +0000

This week and next week, we’re exploring the distinction between Law and Gospel, two ways God speaks to us in the Scriptures. Today, we hear the 10 Commandments, a clear example of law. What happens when we fall short of the law? We trust in God’s grace and forgiveness, revealed in Jesus Christ.

Today’s sermon Scripture reading is Exodus 20:1-17.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Covenant of Faith | February 25, 2024

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 21:33:46 +0000

During this season of Lent, a common thread running through our Sunday Scripture readings is the idea of “covenant.” Last week, Pastor Jon Jacobs spoke about the covenant God made with Noah and his descendants, a promise never to flood the earth again. This Sunday, we hear the story of Abraham and the covenant God makes with him to give him numerous descendants and make him the father of nations.

At the time God makes this promise, Abraham is elderly and childless. This promise seems impossible for God to fulfill. But Abraham (mostly) has faith, and through God’s miraculous intervention, his faith is rewarded. The promise is fulfilled. Join us for worship today as we look at Abraham’s example of faith and seek to grow in our own faith.

This week's Scripture readings are Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16; Romans 4:13-25; and Mark 8:31-38.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Pastor Jon Jacobs | February 18, 2024

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 18:04:53 +0000

This week, we welcome Pastor Jon Jacobs to lead us in worship while Pastor Daniel is with some of our youth at the Quake event in Wisconsin Dells.

Today's Scriptures Genesis 9:8-17 and Mark 1:9-15.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Valentine's Ash Wednesday | February 14, 2024

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 22:36:03 +0000

It's Valentine's Day...and Ash Wednesday! Tonight's sermon explores the common theme of love shared by these two holidays, proclaiming that God's ultimate love triumphs even over death.

Our Scripture readings tonight are Psalm 51:1-17; 1 John 3:1-2, 14-24; and 1 Corinthians 13:1-13.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Transfiguration Sunday: Listen to Him! | February 11, 2024

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 17:45:20 +0000

On this Transfiguration Sunday, imagine what it would have been like to be one of the disciples going up a mountain with Jesus, encountering some of the heroes of faith from Israel's history, and seeing God's glory shining through Jesus, affirming his true identity. A sermon on Mark 9:2-9.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Healing and Wholeness | February 6, 2024

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 19:49:37 +0000

This Sunday's sermon explores how Jesus calls us to serve as disciples, through the lens of Mark 1:29-39 and 1 Corinthians 9:16-23. Most often, our call is to discipleship where we are, loving and serving our neighbors. We are set free in Christ to care for others not to gain a reward, but to share the joy of living a life of service in Jesus’ name.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Food, Idols, and Forbearance | January 28, 2024

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 21:32:15 +0000

This Sunday’s message focus on the seemingly obscure question of whether it is permissible for Christians to eat meat sacrificed to idols—a question illustrating surprisingly relevant topics for our lives today as followers of Jesus! Today’s Scripture reading is 1 Corinthians 8:1-13.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Spontaneous Discipleship | January 21, 2024

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 17:25:23 +0000

Welcome to worship! This morning, we are continuing the theme of Jesus calling disciples to come and follow him. Last week, we heard about Jesus seeing Nathanael under a tree. Initially skeptical ("Can anything good come out of Nazareth?"), Nathanael quickly realized Jesus was in fact the Messiah. This Sunday, we'll hear Jesus call four different fishermen, all of whom immediately leave their nets and follow him.

This week's story illustrates a kind of enthusiastic faith that most of us--myself included--often lack. We want to follow Jesus, but there's so much that gets in the way. Life is full of distractions (both good and bad). What would it look like to have the kind of faith to drop everything and follow? What are the "nets" Jesus is calling us to drop? Holy Spirit, give us the faith to hear and obey Jesus' call!

Today's Scripture readings are 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, Psalm 62:5-12, and Mark 1:14-20.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Nathanael's Call | January 14, 2024

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 16:55:43 +0000

Can anything good come from Nazareth? This Sunday, Nathanael learns a lesson about God working in unexpected people and places. In this week's sermon, Pastor Daniel Flucke digs into each of the three lines of Nathanael's conversation with Jesus.

Today's Scripture readings are Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18, and John 1:43-51.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Baptized Beloved | January 7, 2024

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 17:58:53 +0000

As we wrap up our series, “How Does a Weary World Rejoice?” our theme is, “We trust our belovedness.” Rejoicing comes when we recognize and trust God’s immeasurable love for us. Our identity as God’s beloved sustains us when we grow weary from everything going on in our world.

Before Jesus’ public earthly ministry begins, his identity is confirmed in his baptism. As Jesus is baptized, the heavens are open, the Holy Spirit descends upon him, and God’s voice declares, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.” In a similar way (although usually without God’s audible voice), our identity as beloved children of God is affirmed in our baptism. Secure in our identity and relationship with God, we are sent out to do God’s work during our time on earth.

Today's Scripture readings are Isaiah 43:1-7, Psalm 29, and Luke 3:1-6, 21-23a.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Cosmic and Personal | December 31, 2023

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 20:35:11 +0000

Merry Christmas! On this final Sunday of 2023, we continue celebrating Christmas by hearing in worship the story of Mary and Joseph dedicating the baby Jesus in the temple. In that traditional ritual, something unexpected happens as a man named Simeon and a prophet named Anna each recognize who this child is. This child is not just a regular baby; he is God's plan for salvation. He is the Messiah, the long-awaited savior. As God's people, we follow Simeon & Anna's example and we worship our savior.

Today's message focuses on Luke 2:21-40.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Christmas Eve: Make Room | December 24, 2023

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 20:17:19 +0000

Christmas is about making room, because God has made room for us. Through this baby born at Christmas, God calls us to look beyond the weariness of this world, beyond the weariness of our lives, and with a thrill of hope, rejoice. Merry Christmas!

Today's message focuses on Luke's account of the Christmas story in Luke 2:1-20.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Advent 3: Joy and Rejoicing | December 10, 2023

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 16:55:47 +0000

On this third Sunday of Advent, our worship themes are joy, wonder, and amazement. In the midst of a weary world, we allow ourselves to be amazed at the miracle of Christmas, the miracle of God choosing to come and dwell with us. As we notice what God is doing and celebrate God’s faithfulness, joy follows.

Today's message focuses on 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Psalm 126, and Luke 1:57-66.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Advent 2: Mary and Elizabeth | December 3, 2023

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 17:34:16 +0000

This Sunday, our Advent journey continues with Elizabeth’s story, which quickly becomes intertwined with the more familiar story of Mary, a cousin of Elizabeth who receives her own visit from Gabriel and the promise of a miraculous pregnancy. We’ll look at how their connection helps give them strength to continue in their calling. In the midst of weariness, joy and rejoicing grow through connections and community.

Today's message focuses on Luke 1:24-45, 56.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Advent 1: Brokenness and Joy | November 26, 2023

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 17:30:09 +0000

This week, we enter the season of Advent, the four weeks leading up to the celebration of Christmas. Our theme for this year’s Advent is the question, “How does a weary world rejoice?”

That title comes from a line in the familiar Christmas hymn, “O Holy Night,” and over the next few weeks, we will explore through music, art, prayer, and devotions how we receive the joy of Christmas—the joy of Jesus’ birth, the joy of God coming into our world and dwelling with us—in the midst of all the brokenness and hurt in this weary world.

In this season, we will celebrate yet again the good news that no matter how weary we are, no matter how overwhelmed we might feel; even as we experience grief, grow older, and continue to wait, there is hope. Our waiting is not forever. God is at work, even as we wait. Our joy is rooted in the truth that we belong to God. In the midst of weariness, there is also reason to rejoice.

We begin this Sunday with the story of Zechariah, the wife of Elizabeth and father of John the Baptist. May God bless you with joy in this season of waiting and preparing.

Today's Scripture readings are Isaiah 64:1-9; Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19; and Luke 1:1-23.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

November 19 | Bishop Paul Erickson

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 17:29:08 +0000

This weekend, Christ the King Lutheran Church celebrates 60 years of ministry in Port Washington, Wisconsin. Today's message is from Rev. Paul Erickson, Bishop of the ELCA's Greater Milwaukee Synod. The Scripture readings for the day are Ephesians 1:15-23, read by former CTK pastor Rev. Marilyn Borchardt, and Matthew 25:31-46, read by former CTK pastor Rev. Alice Horton.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Intentional Stewardship | November 13, 2023

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 20:53:59 +0000

This Sunday, we conclude our four week focus on stewardship with a call to intentional giving. Jesus tells a powerful story emphasizing the importance of being prepared. When we don’t know the day or the hour of what’s to come, it’s important to remain grounded in our faith, keeping perspective and remembering that God is in charge.

Today's Scripture readings are 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Psalm 90:1-4, 10-12; and Matthew 25:1-13.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

All Saints Day | November 5, 2023

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 19:32:49 +0000

In this All Saints Sunday worship service, Pastor Daniel Flucke looks at the question of what makes someone a saint. Is it how good of a person you are? Is it how much money you give to the church? Perhaps how many different community organizations you volunteer for?

No, being a saint simply means being part of the body of Christ. As we hear in 1 John, we are God’s children. Because God loves you, God has claimed you and calls you beloved. And because you are already beloved, because your eternal future is secure, you can live and serve boldly and humbly in this world. Today's Scripture readings are 1 John 3:1-3, Psalm 43, and Matthew 23:1-12.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Reformation Fine Print | October 29, 2023

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 15:57:23 +0000

This weekend, we commemorate Reformation Sunday by hearing again the good news Paul proclaims in Romans 3:28 “For we hold that a person is justified by faith apart from works prescribed by the law.”

As we continue talking about stewardship over the next few weeks, remember that God’s love for you does not depend on what you give, or on anything you do. The good news of grace is that everything depends on what God has done for you. Jesus has died for you. Your sins are forgiven, and it’s all a gift. You don’t need to earn it. Have faith and trust in God’s salvation and love for you!

In response to God’s incredible love and amazing grace, we follow what Jesus called the greatest commandment: Love the Lord your God with all that you are, and love your neighbor as yourself—the rest is all fine print. Our call is to share the love God has first given us.

Today's scripture readings are Leviticus 19:1-2, 15-18; Psalm 90:1-6, 13-14; Romans 3:19-28a; and Matthew 22:34-36.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Implications of Bearing God's Image | October 22, 2023

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 16:08:20 +0000

Give to the emperor what is the emperor's, and give to God what is God's—and what is not God's? Being made in God's image has implications for how we use the gifts God has trusted to us (stewardship), how we treat others, and even how we view ourselves.

Today's scripture is from Genesis 1:26-31 and Matthew 22:15-22.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Vineyard Mercy | October 15, 2023

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 15:39:56 +0000

Welcome to worship! This week, we're looking at connections between a fascinating parable from Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew and an ancient prophecy from Isaiah about a vineyard. In this story, we'll see how Jesus is calling us to a different path than the human desire for vengeance, a path he demonstrated by laying down his own life for us out of love.

Today's Scripture readings are Isaiah 5:1-7 and Matthew 21:33-46.

Apologies for the missing podcast episodes the last two weeks - one week included a video as half of the sermon and a podcast wouldn't make sense, and then we had technical recording issues the next week.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Practicing Faith: Proclaim the Good News of God in Christ through Word and Deed | September 24, 2023

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 16:47:12 +0000

In this third week of our series "Practicing Faith" we're exploring our call to "Proclaim the good news of God in Christ through word and deed."Today's Scripture readings are Joshua 4:19-24; Psalm 34:1-8; James 1:22-27, 2:14-17; and Matthew 5:13-16. We pray this message is a blessing for you today!

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Practicing Faith: Hear the Word of God and Share in the Lord's Supper | September 17, 2023

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 16:03:31 +0000

This is week two of our series "Practicing Faith" exploring the five promises of baptism. Today, we're looking at what it means to "Hear the word of God and share in the Lord’s supper" and our Scripture readings areJohn 1:1-5, 14-18; Psalm 119:9-16; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26; and Matthew 7:24-29.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Practicing Faith: Live Among God's Faithful People | September 10, 2023

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 16:27:27 +0000

This joint worship service is the first week of a new five-week series "Practicing Faith" exploring the five promises of baptism. This week, we're looking at what it means to "Live among God's faithful people." Following the service, we are assembling school kits for Lutheran World Relief as part of the ELCA's "God's Work. Our Hands." day of service.

Today's Scripture readings are Ephesians 4:1-7, 11-16; Psalm 145:1-8; Romans 13:8-10; and Matthew 18:15-20.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Taking Up a Cross-Shaped Perspective | September 3, 2023

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 19:24:53 +0000

Jesus calls us to take up the cross and follow him as disciples. Answering this call changes the way we see the world. As Jesus' followers, we follow the Messiah who humbled himself, laying down is life rather than taking up earthly power. This week's Scripture readings are Romans 12:9-21, Psalm 26:1-8, and Matthew 16:21-28.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Claimed, United, and Transformed in Baptism | August 27, 2023

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 23:42:25 +0000

As the body of Christ, all of us are claimed as God's children through baptism, gathered to be church together and to grow as disciples, and sent to serve our neighbors and live out our faith. The Holy Spirit blesses us with a variety of gifts, everything we need to fulfill the mission to which God calls us. Today's sermon from Pastor Daniel Flucke looks at Romans 12:1-8 and Peter's confession of faith in Matthew 16:13-20. The sermon also references Eleanor Nystrom's baptism, which we had the joy of celebrating at Christ the King this Sunday!

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Pastor Wendy Wirth-Brock | August 20, 2023

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 18:22:15 +0000

Thank you to Pastor Wendy Wirth-Brock for leading worship and providing today's message while Pastor Daniel is on a youth service weekend trip with Lighthouse Youth Ministry. This week's readings are Isaiah 56:1, 6-8; Psalm 67; Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32; and Matthew 15:10-28.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Jesus Gets in the Boat | August 13, 2023

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 19:22:00 +0000

This week at Christ the King, we welcomed our neighbors from Grand Avenue United Methodist Church to join us for worship while their parking lot is being repaved. This week's sermon focuses on the miracle of Jesus walking on water, as told in Matthew 14:22-33, as well as our call to proclaim good news in Romans 10:5-15.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Included in the Crowd | August 6, 2023

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 15:32:00 +0000

Imagine all the people present in the crowd as Jesus took five loaves and two fish and fed the multitude. Each of them had their own stories, their own histories and motivations, their own expectations and beliefs—and yet Jesus fed them. All of them. As Christ's body, we proclaim "All are welcome" because that's what Jesus did. We get to participate in the work of building God's kingdom, and we too are welcomed in. There's a place for you at Christ's table.

This week's sermon focuses on Matthew's account of the feeding of the multitude, found in Matthew 14:13-21, and touches on Isaiah 55:1-5. The inspiration for this sermon comes from a wonderful reflection by the late Rachel Held Evans, found here: https://rachelheldevans.com/blog/lectionary-feeding-five-thousand.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Kingdom of God's Love | July 30, 2023

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 14:55:00 +0000

This week's sermon explores both the beautiful promises of Romans 8:26 & 38-39, and digs into the frustrations of Romans 8:28. What does it mean to trust in a hurting and broken world that “all things work together for good?” Today's Scriptures are Romans 8:26-39, Psalm 119:129-136, and Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Indiscriminate Sowing | July 23, 2023

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 20:32:22 +0000

A sower went out to sow, and the sower sowed abundantly, generously, even indiscriminately - good news indeed! A sermon on Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Abiding in Community | July 16, 2023

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 20:27:24 +0000

This Sunday in worship, we have a unique opportunity to again surround a family with Christian community as our service includes a time of commendation and a celebration of the life of Christ the King member Lois Lembcke, who died on June 13. As a church congregation, we are called to support each other on the journey of faith, in both times of joy and times of grief. This week's Scripture readings are Hebrews 12:1-3, Psalm 121, Romans 8:1-11, and John 15:1-5.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

The Problem with Lutherans | July 2, 2023

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 20:47:43 +0000

Daniel Flucke returns from parental leave this week to share a message about the problem with Lutherans and with forgiveness in general. Today is the 5th Sunday after Pentecost and our Scripture readings are Romans 6:12-23 and Matthew 10:40-42

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Pastor Jon Breimeier | June 25, 2023

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 20:39:56 +0000

Today is the 4th Sunday after Pentecost. Thank you to Pastor Jon Breimeier for leading today's service on this final week of Pastor Daniel's parental leave. Today's Scripture readings are Romans 6:1b-11 and Matthew 10:24-39.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Pastor Jon Breimeier | June 18, 2023

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 20:33:41 +0000

Today is the 3rd Sunday after Pentecost. Thank you to Pastor Jon Breimeier for leading today's service while Pastor Daniel is on parental leave. Today's Scripture readings are Romans 5:1-8, Psalm 100, and Matthew 9:35-10:8.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Pastor Jerry Groth | June 11, 2023

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 19:25:30 +0000

Thank you to Pastor Jerry Groth for leading today's service while Pastor Daniel is on paternity leave. Today's Scripture readings are Genesis 12:1-9, Psalm 33:1-12, Romans 4:13-25, and Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Pastor Chris Manke | June 4, 2023

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 22:52:43 +0000

Thank you to Pastor Chris Manke of our synod's Outreach for Hope ministry for leading today's service. Visit https://outreachforhope.org/ for more information about this ministry. Today's Scripture readings are Matthew 28:16-20, Psalm 8, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, and Luke 10:25-37.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Pastor Jon Breimeier | May 28, 2023

Wed, 31 May 2023 20:20:45 +0000

Today is Pentecost Sunday! Thank you to Pastor Jon Breimeier for leading today's service while Pastor Daniel is on parental leave. Today's Scripture readings are 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13; Psalm 104:24-34, 35b; Acts 2:1-21; and John 7:37-39.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Pastor Jon Breimeier | May 21, 2023

Wed, 31 May 2023 15:53:42 +0000

Today is the 7th Sunday of Easter. Thank you to Pastor Jon Breimeier for leading today's service while Pastor Daniel is on parental leave. Today's Scripture readings are Acts 1:6-14; Psalm 68:1-10, 32-35; 1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11; and John 17:1-5, 10-11.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Pastor Jon Breimeier | May 14, 2023

Sat, 20 May 2023 20:50:30 +0000

Today is the 6th Sunday of Easter. Thank you to Pastor Jon Breimeier for leading today's service while Pastor Daniel is on parental leave. Today's Scripture readings are Acts 17:22-31, Psalm 66:8-20, 1 Peter 3:13-18a, and John 14:15-21.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Pastor Jon Breimeier | May 7, 2023

Sat, 20 May 2023 19:43:51 +0000

Today is the 5th Sunday of Easter. Thank you to Pastor Jon Breimeier for leading today's service while Pastor Daniel is on parental leave. Today's Scripture readings are Acts 7:55-60, 1 Peter 2:2-10, and John 14:1-7.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Abundant Life in the Good Shepherd | April 30, 2023

Mon, 01 May 2023 15:53:57 +0000

Today is the 4th Sunday of Easter, Good Shepherd Sunday, and our Scripture readings are Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23, and John 10:1-10. This sermon explores how we as church are called to live an abundant life following Jesus together.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Walk to Emmaus | April 23, 2023

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 15:27:00 +0000

In the walk to Emmaus story, we recognize the promise that Jesus is with us on our own journeys through life, coming to meet us especially when we are grieving or overwhelmed. The sacraments of baptism and holy communion offer us a tangible reminder of God's promise as Jesus promises to be present through the ordinary elements of bread, wine, and water. And of course, we encounter the risen Jesus in his body, the Church.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Opening Locked Doors | April 16, 2023

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 16:30:32 +0000

On the evening of that first Easter Sunday, Jesus appeared to his disciples, despite the fact that they were hiding in a locked room. We are called to unlock the doors and step out in faith to proclaim the good news of the resurrection.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Easter Sunday: Who Are You Looking For? | April 9, 2023

Sun, 09 Apr 2023 15:28:00 +0000

It's Easter Sunday! Today's sermon asks who it is we are looking for as we come to worship at the empty tomb. Our Scripture reading for the day is John 20:1-18.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Good Friday | April 7, 2023

Sat, 08 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Here is a brief Good Friday message from Pastor Daniel Flucke inviting us into Good Friday and the Passion story we will experience during tonight's Tenebrae service.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Maundy Thursday: Remembering, Responding, Reuniting | April 6. 2023

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Tonight's Maundy Thursday sermon is in three parts, focusing on remembering the story of God’s salvation of God’s people, hearing how Jesus calls us to respond in love, and being reunited as God’s people around Christ’s table. Our Scripture readings are Exodus 12:1-4, 11-14; John 13:1-17, 31b-35; and 1 Corinthians 11:17-26.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Palm Sunday: Where Are You Headed? | April 2, 2023

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 18:56:41 +0000

It's Palm Sunday! Today's sermon focuses on the contrast between the kingdoms offered by Jesus and Pontius Pilate, asking whose parade we want to be a part of.

Today's Scripture readings are Philippians 2:5-11 and Matthew 21:1-11. Sermon by Pastor Daniel Flucke.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Can These Bones Live? | March 26, 2023

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 19:28:02 +0000

Today's sermon looks at two stories of resurrection. No, we’re not to Easter quite yet, but both Ezekiel’s vision of a valley of dry bones and Jesus’ miraculous raising of Lazarus give us a sort of sneak peek of what’s coming.

This week’s question, “Can these bones live?” comes from the prophet Ezekiel’s vision of a field of death, and asks whether God can work even when it seems life and hope are gone. In the Gospel reading from John 11, Jesus demonstrates that even death doesn’t end God’s work by calling Lazarus out from the tomb and restoring him to life. And of course, in a few weeks, we’ll see the ultimate proof of God’s power over death as Jesus himself is raised from the dead on Easter morning.

Today's Scripture readings are Ezekiel 37:1-14 and John 11:1-45. Sermon by Pastor Daniel Flucke.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Fasting as Repentance | Midweek Lent, March 22, 2023

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 19:18:20 +0000

Here is the sermon from our ecumenical midweek Lenten service on March 22, 2023. This service was at Grand Avenue United Methodist Church in Port Washington.

Today's Scripture reading is Joel 2:1-2, 12-17. Sermon by Pastor Daniel Flucke.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Who Sinned? | March 19, 2023

Sun, 19 Mar 2023 16:37:00 +0000

When bad things happen in life, it’s human nature to look for a reason. What went wrong? Who caused the tragedy? Is this a punishment from God? And if so—as the Pharisees ask in this Sunday’s reading—who sinned? Whose fault is it?

Sometimes, of course, identifying who’s at fault is easy. We humans are quite skilled at messing things up and causing hurt and chaos. But other times, bad things just happen. And the impulse to blame and find fault can get in the way of the work Jesus calls us to, the work of seeking justice and proclaiming hope in the midst of this broken world.

This Sunday's sermon wrestles with the question, “Who sinned?” and explores how God calls us to follow Jesus’ example of treating a man born blind not as an object lesson in punishment, but as a beloved child of God.

Today's Scripture reading is John 9:1-41. Sermon by Pastor Daniel Flucke.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Will You Give Me a Drink? | March 12, 2023

Sun, 12 Mar 2023 16:53:00 +0000

On this third Sunday in the season of Lent, our theme question is "Will you give me a drink?" We'll look at two stories--one from the Old Testament narrative of the Israelites wandering in the wilderness, and one about an encounter Jesus has with a woman at a well--and explore how when we admit our vulnerability before God, God meets our needs with eternal living water.

Today's Scripture readings are Exodus 17:1-7 and John 4:5-42.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

How Do We Begin Again? | March 5, 2023

Sun, 05 Mar 2023 16:59:41 +0000

On this second Sunday of Lent, we continue our Lenten series on "Seeking" by exploring the question, "How do we begin again?" We're looking at two characters in the Bible who asked questions of their own, Abraham and Nicodemus. And we'll pray for the Holy Spirit to guide us as we discern where God is calling us to follow.

This week's Scripture readings are Genesis 12:1-4a and John 3:1-17.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Ash Wednesday: Seeking a Fast that Matters | March 1, 2023

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Due to winter weather, we postponed Ash Wednesday worship by a week to March 1. Here's the sermon for the rescheduled service, focusing on the meaning of fasting. Today's Scripture reading is Isaiah 58:1-12.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Whose Voice Will You Listen To? | February 26, 2023

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 17:03:15 +0000

This week's Scripture readings are Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7 and Matthew 4:1-11. On this first Sunday of Lent, we begin our theme "Seeking: Honest Questions for Deeper Faith" by looking at two stories of temptation. First, we hear the familiar Genesis story of Adam and Eve tempted by the serpent in the Garden of Eden, then from Matthew’s gospel we read about Jesus being tempted in the wilderness by Satan. In the face of temptation, our readings this week ask, “Who will you listen to?”

Will you listen to the lies of this world, the lies that draw us away from God’s love toward both the false hope of self-reliance and the fear of inadequacy and unworthiness? Or will you listen to the truth revealed by Jesus, the truth that you are a beloved child of God, totally reliant on God’s never-failing love and grace?

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/. Read this week's sermon text at https://danielflucke.com/whose-voice/.

Transfiguration Rabbit Holes | February 19, 2023

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 15:56:25 +0000

Today is Transfiguration Sunday. While going down a few rabbit holes in this strange story, this sermon focuses on the promise that Jesus comes down the mountain with his disciples, choosing to enter into the messiness of our broken world and chaotic lives. Our Scripture readings today are Exodus 24:12-18 and Matthew 17:1-9.

Learn more about Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/.

Pastor Wendy Birth-Brock | February 12, 2023

Sun, 12 Feb 2023 17:17:02 +0000

In this week’s message, Pastor Wendy Birth-Brock continues looking at Jesus’ teaching in the sermon on the mount in Matthew 5:21-37. The point of being salt and light is the flourishing of relationships. On a particular, personal level, how does being salt and light in the world change our lives? Our faith, Jesus says, affects tough areas like anger, adultery, divorce, oaths, and truth. The Holy Spirit leads us back to God when our own worst impulses draw us away.

Visit Living Hope Lutheran Church in Saukville, Wisconsin online at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington at https://ctkport.org/ to learn more about our ministry.

Mission of Justice | February 5, 2023

Sun, 05 Feb 2023 17:01:36 +0000

We are called to share the good news of the coming of God’s kingdom, called to live God’s way, rather than the world’s way. But as followers of Jesus, what is it we are supposed to do?

In this Sunday’s reading from Micah, we get a clear answer to that question. Similar to Jesus' later command to love God with all that you are and love your neighbor as yourself (see Matthew 22), Micah 6:8 gives us a great one line summary of how God calls us to live.

Join us for today's sermon from Pastor Daniel Flucke exploring this call to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God. Our Scripture readings today are Micah 6:1-8, Psalm 15, and Matthew 5:13-20. Sermon for Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin.

Visit us online at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/ to learn more about our ministry.

United in Christ | January 29, 2023

Sun, 29 Jan 2023 15:57:38 +0000

It's annual meeting Sunday! In preparation for the meeting after service, today's sermon focuses on a passionate plea from the Apostle Paul to be united in Christ, knit together in the same mind and the same purpose. On one level, the annual meeting is a bureaucratic procedure, but on another level, this is an opportunity to practice living out this call for unity.

Today's Scripture readings are 1 Corinthians 1:10-18, Psalm 27, and Matthew 5:1-12. Sermon from Pastor Daniel Flucke for Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin.

Visit us online at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/ to learn more about our ministry.

Follow Me | January 22, 2023

Sun, 22 Jan 2023 15:55:35 +0000

Have you ever found yourself wondering if we as a church are good enough? Ever wondered whether God has plans for our future, or whether God is truly calling people like you and I to be part of Jesus' mission of transforming the world and building God's kingdom? If so, take a look at this week's reading from 1 Corinthians 1:18-31.

In this sermon, we hear the reassuring promise that God chooses the foolish and weak to work through. God makes foolish the wisdom of the world. The source of our life and purpose is Christ Jesus, not anything we have to offer. Jesus calls unlikely people like you as disciples. What an amazing gift!

Today's Scripture readings are 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 and Matthew 4:12-23. Sermon from Pastor Daniel Flucke for Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin.

Visit us online at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/ to learn more about our ministry.

Evangelism and Meeting Jesus | January 15, 2023

Sun, 15 Jan 2023 21:16:03 +0000

Who introduced you to Jesus? How did you come to faith? This week in worship, we'll hear a couple great examples of evangelism. Sometimes that word "evangelism" can be scary, but at its heart, all it means is introducing people to Jesus. We introduce people to Jesus by inviting them to come and see what God is doing. God is at work in your life, and you have a story to share.

Today's Scripture readings are 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Psalm 40:1-11, and John 1:29-42. Sermon from Pastor Daniel Flucke for Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin.

Visit us online at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/ to learn more about our ministry.

Epiphany Gifts | January 8, 2023

Sun, 08 Jan 2023 20:55:17 +0000

In this sermon for January 8, we explore the story of some wise men from East bringing gifts to the holy child, Jesus. Imagine what their arrival and gifts must have meant to Mary and Joseph. Not only did they provide resources for the young family—no doubt needed on their trip as refugees to Egypt—but their arrival pointed to the impact this child would have beyond Israel. This child is born for the whole world, for all of creation.

Today's Scripture readings are Isaiah 60:1-7, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14, and Matthew 2:1-12. Sermon from Pastor Daniel Flucke for Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin.

Visit us online at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/ to learn more about our ministry.

Massacre of the Holy Innocents | January 1, 2023

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 20:49:27 +0000

This week, we continue the Christmas story, but we move from the joy of celebrating Jesus’ birth to looking at the world’s reaction. Threatened by the news of a King’s birth, Herod moves to eliminate the threat by killing the children in and around Bethlehem. Although Jesus and his parents escape to Egypt, this story is a sad reminder of the brokenness in our world.

And yet as we begin the new year, we will also hear the promise in the midst of the world’s brokenness, God is still present. In every season and situation, God is here with us, accompanying us on our journey through life.

Today's Scripture readings are Ecclesiastes 3:1-13 and Matthew 2:13-23. Sermon from Pastor Daniel Flucke for Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin.

Visit us online at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/ to learn more about our ministry.

Christmas Eve Questions | December 24, 2022

Sat, 24 Dec 2022 20:41:40 +0000

Merry Christmas! Welcome to the very first episode of this sermon podcast from Christ the King Lutheran Church in Port Washington and Living Hope Lutheran in Saukville, Wisconsin. Today's Scripture is the Christmas story, Luke 2:1-21. Sermon from Pastor Daniel Flucke.

Visit us online at https://www.livinghopesaukville.org/ or https://ctkport.org/ to learn more about our ministry.