Things Above – Eighth Sunday after Pentecost

We turn to Paul’s words in Colossians 3:1–4, where we are reminded to “set [our] minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” As followers of Christ, it’s easy to become distracted or even burdened by the things of this world—our routines, our worries, our pursuits. But Scripture calls us to something higher: a reorientation of our hearts and minds toward Christ, who is seated at the right hand of God and who is our true life.

This message challenges us to think differently, live differently, and remember that we are already raised with Christ. While the world urges us to chase after what is temporary, God invites us into what is eternal. And even when our thoughts stray or our focus dims, the promise remains—God isn’t done with us yet. Each day is a new opportunity to renew our minds in Christ and set our sights on the things above.

Liturgist and Preacher: Pastor Bill Engfehr; Reader: Joe Rathert

Order of service:

Eighth Sunday after Pentecost, Aug 3, 2025

Readings:

Psalm reading is from Psalm 100

Old Testament reading is from Ecclesiastes 1:2, 12–14; 2:18–26

New Testament reading is from Colossians 3:1–11

Holy Gospel is from Luke 12:13–21

Songs and Hymns:

What Is the World to Me

Text: George Michael Pfefferkorn, trns. August Crull
Tune: Ahasverus Fritsch
Public domain

My Worth Is Not in What I Own

Text and tune by Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty, and Graham Kendrick
© 2014 Getty Music
Used with permission, CCLI license # 20286740

For The Lord Is Good

Gary Sadler, Lynn DeShazo
© 1997 Integrity’s Hosanna! Music (Admin. by Integrity Music)
Used with permission: CCLI license #20286740

Grace

Text and tune: Niki Shepherd; Jonny Robinson; Rich Thompson
© 2016 Getty Music Publishing; © Rich Thompson Music
© 2016 Jonny Robinson Music; © Little Life Lines Music
Used with permission: CCLI license #20286740

All Depends on Our Possessing

Text: Andächtige Haus-Kirche, 1676, Nürnberg; tr. Catherine Winkworth, 1827–78, alt.
Tune: Johann Löhner, 1645–1705; adapt. Johann Balthasar König, 1691–1758
Text and tune: Public domain

We Give Thee But Thine Own

Text: William W. How, 1823–97
Tune: William H. Monk, 1823–89
Text and tune: Public domain

I Know That My Redeemer Lives

Jordan Kauflin, Kristyn Getty, Laura Story, Matt Papa, Matthew Merker
© 2022 Getty Music Hymns and Songs; Getty Music Publishing; Jordan Kauflin Music
© 2022 Laura’s Stories and Songs; Love Your Enemies Publishing; Matthew Merker Music
Used with permission: CCLI license #20286740

Liturgies:

Gloria in Excelsis

Text: Stephen P. Starke

Sanctus

Text: Stephen P. Starke

Agnus Dei

Text: Stephen P. Starke

Recording:

Audio:

Video:

Watch on YouTube

Announcements:

Sunday, Aug 3:

Worship Service (Pastor William Engfehr): 9 AM to 10:15 AM

Sunday School and Youth Confirmation: 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM

Sanctuary.

Adult Bible Study and Youth Confirmation: 10:45 AM to 11:45 AM

Downstairs.

Wednesday, Aug 6:

Men’s Bible Study: 6:30 AM to 7:30 AM

Downstairs.

Community Group: 10 AM to 11:30 AM

St. James Fellowship Hall with Bob & Marilyn Whipkey.

Jr & Sr High Youth Group @ Staake Home: 6:30 PM to 8 PM

Thursday, Aug 7:

Community Group: 6 PM to 7:30 PM

Every other Thursday in Caseyville with Tim & Cheryl Schnicker at their home.

AA Meeting: 6:30 PM

Downstairs.

Saturday, Aug 9:

AA Meeting: 1:30 PM

BUILDING SISTERHOOD: Don’t miss out; Registration closes August 5th: 9 AM to 1 PM

We would love to “fill the house” with ladies for our women’s event, “Building Sisterhood.” Registration is free but required and childcare is available. Registration forms can be found on our St. James website, or on the table in the narthex. If you need more information, please contact Cheryl in the church office.