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Strong finances support strong ministry. 🙌 BFCAL, in partnership with WatersEdge, provides trusted accounting services so churches can focus on what matters most. 💒 👉 bfcal.org/accounting

Ducks! 🦆🦆 No, not that kind. We’re talking about ducts, the kind that help warm your place of worship in the winter. How do you maintain them during this season? Find out from former Building and Capital Services Advisor Brock McCracken. #ccdoc

Go to www.texascef.org/rainyday to find out if the Rainy Day Fund is right for you!☔️☔️

📢 LAST CALL! Outreach Grant applications close this Thursday, January 15 at 11:59 PM ⏰ Don’t miss your opportunity to fuel Kingdom impact and create lasting change in your community. ✨🌍👉 Apply now at BFCal.org #OutreachGrants #KingdomImpact #GrantDeadline #ApplyNow #FaithInActio

“He will not shout or cry out, or raise his voice in the streets. A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out” (Isaiah 42:2-3). If God were to speak to you to get your attention, what kind of voice do you think he’d use? Would it sound like thunder? In today’s Bible verse, the Lord’s Servant is depicted as speaking gently. He doesn’t rely on worldly rhetoric and a booming tone to catch people’s attention. He has a gentle voice that we might not expect at first. The Lord’s Servant is Jesus. It’s not the sheer volume of his voice that captures our attention. It’s what he speaks and how he speaks. He speaks gently. Prayer: Lord Jesus, help me tune out the many voices of the surrounding world and calm my troubled heart so I can hear and dwell on your gentle words of pardon and peace. Amen. #wels #welslutherans #welsdailydevotions #dailydevotions #lutheransoffacebook #devotional #biblestudy #personalbiblestudy

“Your investment with the Foundation is really an investment in the Kingdom.” – Pastor Kason Branch, Creekstone Church • You can be part of what God is doing in churches across Texas. When you invest in church expansion certificates, you make a Kingdom difference. Learn more at sbtexasfoundation.com/certificates

What are your community of faith’s New Year’s resolutions? If they include starting the planning process for your next project, then we’re your partner. Contact your regional Building and Capital Services Advisor to make 2026 the year that you took the first step in shaping your faith community’s future! #ccdoc

Drs. Jonathan and Tammy Jarboe alongside the Chayasirisobhon family at the CBU Men’s Basketball game—great fellowship and CBU spirit! 🏀💙

Caught courtside! 🏀 Dr. Jonathan Jarboe with Victor Chayasirisobhon at the CBU Men’s Basketball game.

“ ‘Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will bring justice to the nations’ ” (Isaiah 42:1). The prophet Isaiah wrote these words 700 years before Jesus was born: “Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight.” God was saying, “This is the one I choose.” God didn’t guess. He didn’t worry. He already knew the perfect champion. God had been talking about this champion for a very long time. He promised Adam and Eve a Savior. He promised Abraham a Savior. He promised through Isaiah. And then he sent his Son, Jesus. Jesus is God’s forever choice. His name “Christ” means “the Chosen (Anointed) One.” God’s choice is good. And Jesus is our champion. Prayer: Dear Father in heaven, thank you for sending your Son to be our champion over sin, Satan, and death. Lead us to keep on trusting in him alone for our salvation. Amen. #wels #welslutherans #welsfamilydevotions #familydevotions #devotional #biblestudy #familybiblestudy #lutheransoffacebook

” ‘Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will bring justice to the nations’ ” (Isaiah 42:1). Time and again, we have been let down by empty promises of those who vow to do what is right. We’ve looked to flawed humans as though they and their policies could make this world right and bring justice that would last. Only one person can do that, the one Isaiah pointed to. People in Isaiah’s day longed for justice. Leaders had let them down. Those who were supposed to serve and help were serving themselves. Those who were supposed to care for people’s souls cared only about themselves. But the Lord’s Servant would be different. Isaiah’s prophecy about the Lord’s Servant points to Jesus, the Lord himself. About 700 years after Isaiah’s word, Jesus would stand on the banks of the Jordan River and be revealed as the one who would bring perfect justice, who would right all that is wrong in the world. Prayer: Lord Jesus, when I see injustice in the world may I look to you as the answer. As I also recognize the wrongs that I have done, may I look to you as the answer. Amen. #wels #welslutherans #welsdailydevotions #dailydevotions #lutheransoffacebook #devotional #biblestudy #personalbiblestudy

Join us as we observe the 2026 National Day of Racial Healing, an annual event that follows Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The ELCA is partnering with Augsburg Fortress for a free online program on January 20 from 6-8 p.m. Central time, “Just Us Narratives: A Night of Centering Multiracial Voices Across the ELCA.” Experience an evening of intentional storytelling, deep listening and reflection featuring diverse voices that will draw us closer together. Learn more about the event and our amazing group of presenters through the link in the comments below.

At Long Island Lutheran Middle & High School (LuHi), ministry and mission meet in every corner of campus. A decades-old classroom wing has been reborn into a bright, modern learning environment that reflects LuHi’s vibrant culture and Christ-centered focus. With support from LCEF, the school’s transformation shows that when we invest in the spaces where ministry happens, we invest in the people who experience it. See how a refreshed campus is inspiring generations, together in faith ⤵️ https://interesttime.org/why-space-matters-in-ministry/

Sunday Verse ✨ | Isaiah 1:17 “Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.” As we step into a new week, may our faith be lived out through compassion, justice, and love in action. 🤍 Let us not only hear the Word, but live it. #SundayVerse #Isaiah117 #FaithInAction #SeekJustice #LoveInAction #WalkInFaith

“Christ” is not the family name of Jesus. It is a title. The Greek word “Christ” and the Hebrew word “Messiah” both mean the same thing: “The Anointed One.” Anointing was the practice of pouring liquid over the head of someone to signify selection for some special task. When the Lord had someone anointed, he also poured his Spirit over them. It was the fulfillment of promises made over centuries. #wels #welslutherans

As we step into 2026, our mission remains the same: to faithfully steward resources that grow faith, strengthen churches, and build legacies rooted in Christ. ✨🌱 Together, we look ahead with purpose—shaping a lasting Kingdom impact for generations to come. 🙌 #2026 #KingdomStewardship #BaptistFoundationCA #FaithfulGenerosity #LegacyOfFaith

A carryback contribution is an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) contribution made in the new year that still counts for the prior tax year. For example, a contribution made in early 2026 can be treated as a 2025 IRA contribution if it is made by the federal tax filing deadline and within IRS limits. This option helps people who had earned income but did not maximize their prior year IRA contributions by December 31. Consider a carryback contribution to your LCEF IRA today. Traditional IRA (PDF) ⤵️ lcef.org/TraditionalCarryback Roth IRA (PDF) ➡️ lcef.org/RothCarryback Open an IRA ➡️ lcef.org/IRA — LCEF is a nonprofit religious organization; therefore, LCEF Investments are not FDIC insured, are not a federally insured savings or deposit account or insured by any state or federal agency. This is not an offer to sell investments, nor a solicitation to buy. LCEF will offer and sell its securities only in states where authorized. The offer is made solely by LCEF’s Offering Circular. Investors should carefully read the Offering Circular, which more fully describes associated risks. Neither LCEF nor its representatives give legal, accounting or tax advice. Consult your tax advisor as to the applicability of this information to your own situation. UMB Bank n.a. serves as the custodian for the LCEF IRA/HSA programs.

“From the rising of the sun to its setting, the name of the Lord is to be praised!” – Psalm 113:3 ⛪ St. Paul Lutheran Church & School 🌎 Napoleon, Ohio

Please join us in prayer for one of our borrowers, Grace Slavic Baptist Church in Eagan, MN. In December, a fire damaged their sanctuary, but we are grateful to report that no one was injured. The congregation is currently meeting in another location and exploring options for the future of their ministry. Pastor Paul Afannsiev asks for prayer—for wisdom in navigating insurance, comfort as they grieve the loss of their building, and unity in deciding next steps.

Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry has issued a statement regarding the ICE shooting in Minneapolis. Read the full statement through the link in the comments below.

As we look forward into the new year, we are excited to add two roles to our Building and Capital Services advisor team—both of which are full-time and remote within the United States. These positions serve as the main connection between us and Disciples entities, so we hope that you will apply! Learn more ⬇️ #ccdoc

📢 DON’T MISS OUT! Applications for Outreach Grants are now open and will close on January 15, 2026! This is your chance to fuel Kingdom impact and bring lasting change to your community. ✨🌍 Take action today — apply now at BFCal.org! Want to stay updated on future grant opportunities? Visit our site and sign up — big things are ahead! 📬 #OutreachGrants #KingdomImpact #ApplyNow #GrantOpportunities #FaithInAction

Did you know your congregation or school can quickly address important repairs and upgrades with the Ministry Improvement Loan from LCEF? Whether it’s repairing a roof, updating HVAC systems or making facilities more welcoming, this fast, flexible financing ensures vital improvements don’t have to wait. Enjoy convenient repayment and up to $150,000 in funding, so you can keep your ministry moving forward. Learn more and find out if your project qualifies at lcef.org/MIL.

During chapel this morning, Pastor Duane Rodewald, Chairman of WELS Board for Ministerial Education, installed Pastor Charles Vannieuwenhoven as WELS Administrator for Ministerial Education. Welcome Charles and God’s continued blessings on your work! 📹 https://www.youtube.com/live/Szmod4D2ZpM?si=MWvVACS7NfiRApAR

The GBHEM scholarship application portal is now OPEN! 🎉 U.S.-based and international United Methodist students – learn more and apply before March 6: https://www.gbhem.org/…/gbhem-scholarship-portals-open-jan…/ U.S. program key: gbhemscholarship International program key: GRASP #BeUMC #scholarships #EducationMatters #GRASP

“On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh” (Matthew 2:11). Like the wise men, you can worship Jesus by going where he promises to be. Each week, you have the chance to gather at church with other believers. Being there shows that Jesus matters to you. You worship Jesus when you confess your sins and trust his forgiveness. That’s you saying, “Jesus, you are my Savior.” You can also worship Jesus by giving gifts. Sometimes that means offerings at church. But you can also give him: – The gift of your time—reading the Bible and praying. – The gift of your service—helping your parents, siblings, teachers, and neighbors. – The gift of your words—speaking kindly and sharing Jesus’ love. All of these acts of worship show something important. They show that Jesus is the light of your salvation. They show that he is a top priority in your life. Prayer: Dear Jesus, through the star and the wise men, you showed that you are the Savior for everyone. Fill our hearts with joy and help us worship you with our whole lives—with our hearts, our time, and our strength. Amen. #wels #welslutherans #welsfamilydevotions #familydevotions #devotional #biblestudy #familybiblestudy #lutheransoffacebook

“When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory” (Ephesians 1:13-14). Before reaching your ultimate salvation on the Last Day when you sit at your Lord’s feet in heaven, already now, by faith, the Holy Spirit dwells in your heart. That means you now get to enjoy the blessings of God: to taste his forgiveness, to have a hope that presses you forward, to know a love that has no limit. This is just the down payment that guarantees so much more. Your eternal salvation is sealed already by the Spirit dwelling in you. God guarantees a future for you. The Holy Spirit has made your heart his home, and that means you are God’s special possession today and in eternity. Prayer: Dear Holy Spirit, I thank you for making my heart your home and for guaranteeing me a future with you and the Father and the Son. That you would do this, even for a sinner like me, shouts your praise and glory to the ends of the earth. Amen. #wels #welslutherans #welsdailydevotions #dailydevotions #lutheransoffacebook #devotional #biblestudy #personalbiblestudy

Client Story: Epic Life in New Braunfels • Learn about what God is doing at Epic Life as they seek to advance His Kingdom here in Texas and around the world. • When you invest in Church Expansion Certificates, you’re not just growing your finances—you’re helping churches and ministries like Epic Life spread the gospel. Learn more at sbtexasfoundation.com/certificates

✨ Throwback Thursday! ✨ Back in November, our Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Ernest Ong, CIMA®, attended the OCSBA Association Meeting. We’re grateful for every opportunity to connect, serve, and partner with leaders across California Baptist associations. 💙 #ThrowbackThursday #BFCAL #KingdomPartnership #OCSBA #BaptistFamily

One Home One Future’s step-by-step Green Teams guide provides practical advice to help you establish or continue operating a successful team dedicated to implementing green initiatives in your place of worship. Join the multi-faith campaign today to access FREE Green Teams resources! #ccdoc

Called to LEAD is now accepting applications for its second cohort!​ LCEF, in partnership with Concordia University Wisconsin, is pleased to support this year-long, faith-filled leadership journey for emerging church leaders. Participants grow through leadership courses, mentoring and hands-on projects.​ Only 15 seats are available. Applications are due February 1, and the next cohort begins May 1. Learn more and apply here: https://onlineinfo.cuw.edu/called-to-lead Know someone who would thrive in this experience? Tag a friend or colleague who may be Called to LEAD.

Called to LEAD is now accepting applications for its second cohort!​ LCEF, in partnership with Concordia University Wisconsin, is pleased to support this year-long, faith-filled leadership journey for emerging church leaders. Participants grow through leadership courses, mentoring and hands-on projects.​ Only 15 seats are available. Applications are due February 1, and the next cohort begins May 1. Learn more and apply here: https://onlineinfo.cuw.edu/called-to-lead Know someone who would thrive in this experience? Share this link with a friend or colleague who may be Called to LEAD.

✨ Journey to the Holy Land with BFCAL ✨ Join BFCAL on a 10-day journey of a lifetime 📍 January 17–26, 2027 Walk in the footsteps of Jesus as Scripture comes alive—from Bethlehem and Jerusalem to the Sea of Galilee and the Mount of Olives. Float in the Dead Sea, explore Masada, and deepen your faith through this unforgettable spiritual experience. ✨ Reserve your spot today! ✨ #HolyLandJourney #BFCAL #FaithJourney #ScriptureComeAlive

Over 90 households are participating in the Rainy Day Fund and have saved over $450,000! Follow the link to find our if the Rainy Day Fund is right for you! www.texascef.org/rainyday

“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us” (Ephesians 1:7-8). God knew the price he’d have to pay to adopt you as his own. He knew what it would take, and he paid it. He was, and still is, deeply committed to making you, his child. Not only did God purchase us, but he also changed us. We’re no longer the problem child or the feral pet—but pure, cleansed by our Savior, made to look like one of God’s own possessions. That payment made for you at the cross, that forgiveness won for you by Jesus, is the ultimate picture of the lavish riches of God’s grace. Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, thank you for making me your child by giving up your only Son for me. Help me reflect your lavish grace to the world. Amen. #wels #welslutherans #welsdailydevotions #dailydevotions #lutheransoffacebook #devotional #biblestudy #personalbiblestudy

Celebrating 35 years of impact! On December 28, 1990, MB Foundation was officially incorporated, but our story of biblical stewardship began over a century ago with a call to raise funds for missions and spread the gospel. Over the years, MB Foundation has grown into a nationwide ministry—expanding resources, partnerships, and impact to assist individuals and ministries with Biblical financial stewardship solutions. This milestone reflects a legacy of generosity and God’s faithfulness. Thank you for joining us in this mission! Read more about our history of incorporation: https://bit.ly/4ppFlox

Tight budgets. Changing neighborhoods. Fewer members. Many small churches know these realities, but they’re also learning that being “small” doesn’t mean being stuck. Through LCEF’s Small Church Clarity program, congregations in the New Jersey, Eastern and Ohio districts are gathering to plan boldly, support one another and reclaim their unique role in Gospel ministry. Together in faith, they’re building stability, partnerships and new energy for the future. Read how clarity leads to transformation ⤵️ https://interesttime.org/from-workshops-to-worship/

We are grieving while we follow updates about a shooting involving an ICE agent and neighbor in South Minneapolis. The increase of immigration enforcement operations has caused so much pain and fear in our neighborhoods, and now one of our neighbors has been killed. God have mercy. Over the past years, Minneapolis has experienced pain and trauma from violence, and we know that this can be triggering. These recent months have been especially traumatic for our immigrant neighbors. We have heard from many of our clergy and lay leaders who are or will be on the ground, and who can provide spiritual care as needed. Be safe, stay connected, and hold fast to the promises of God. We are praying for the victim of this violence and their family, for all those showing up to demand justice, for our worshipping communities, and for our immigrant neighbors. Peace be with you. If you hear of vigils and opportunities for community members to gather for prayer, please share them in the comments or send them to n.tangen@mpls-synod.org.

Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry has issued a statement on Venezuela. “As God’s beloved, Christians share in Jesus’ ministry and compassion for the vulnerable. Our prayers remain with the people of Venezuela…Our church walks in solidarity with them through the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Venezuela — their people, pastors, deacons and ministries.” Read the full statement through the link in the comments below.

✨ If you received a SoCal Grant this year, please remember to submit your Grant Response Report by January 15! We are so thankful for your partnership and can’t wait to hear how God moved through your outreach 🙏⛪ Interested in receiving a grant in 2026? Visit bfcal.org for more information ✨ #SoCalGrants #FaithInAction #KingdomImpact #ChurchOutreach #FaithfulStewardship #MinistrySupport

High school can be a daunting time in the life of a teenager. That’s why CYF is so important—campers can focus on learning about radical love, inclusion, and justice together through the teachings of Jesus Christ and explore what that means for them in this day and age. We’re just happy to walk alongside them as they do it! 👣 #ccdocCYF Mid-Winter 2026!!! Thank you to our director Claire Lammers, our keynoter Rev. Dr. Jose Martinez, our counselors, and our phenomenal RYC leaders for a wonderful weekend!! Be sure to register for summer camp June 22-27 at kcdisciples.org/cyf

The Christmas decorations in our building may be coming down today, but one thing remains true: Christ the Savior is born for you and through Him you are redeemed. #welslutherans #lutheransoffacebook

✨ Midweek Encouragement ✨ “See, the former things have taken place, and new things I declare; before they spring into being I announce them to you.” — Isaiah 42:9 God is already at work in what’s ahead. Trust Him with the new season He’s preparing, even before you can see it. 🌱🙏 #MidWeekEncouragement #Isaiah429 #FaithOverFear #NewBeginnings #TrustGod

Wednesday in the Word!

“This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 3:2-6). God doesn’t want your life to feel like a confusing mystery book. He wants you to know that you are loved. He wants you to know where you are going—heaven! And he wants to guide you with his wisdom every day until you get there. That’s why the Bible is so important. Keep reading it. Keep listening to it. God uses it to fill you with the “riches of Christ” and to help you grow wiser and stronger in faith. Prayer: Lord, thank you for bringing us into your family through the glorious mystery of Jesus. May we be true servants of this gospel and shine your light so others can see your love too. Amen. #wels #welslutherans #welsfamilydevotions #familydevotions #devotional #biblestudy #familybiblestudy #lutheransoffacebook