Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church

Mercy, not sacrifice
Letter from Pastor Jeff

Dear Beautiful Savior,

There is a rabbinic story that came to me this week. A student once asked his Rabbi, "How do we know when night has ended and day has begun?" One student answered, "When you can look into the distance and tell the difference between a sheep and a dog." Another answered, "When you can distinguish a fig tree from an olive tree." "No,” he said. "Day begins when you can look into the face of another human being and recognize your sister or your brother. Until then, it is still night."

This week’s Gospel lesson is from St. Matthew. Jesus calls a tax collector and is seen eating with him and other sinners who the Pharisees didn't like. Jesus reminds us that he desires mercy, not sacrifice. Jesus has come to call sinners not the righteous. Our world continues to love the night, not being able to discern the face of another human being.

Continue reading here.

Mercy, not sacrifice Dear Beautiful Savior, There is a rabbinic story that came to me this week. A student once asked his Rabbi, "How do we know when night has ended and day has begun?" One student answered, "When you can look into the distance and tell the difference between a sheep and a dog." Another answered,...

Celebrate the life of Pastor Richard Mauthe this Sunday. A memorial service at 11 a.m. will follow the regular worship service, with a reception immediately after in Werner Hall.

Pastor Richard passed away peacefully at home on May 14 surrounded by his loved ones, following a brief battle with cancer. He was 77. He will be remembered for his unwavering faith, gentle wisdom, kindness, humor, and deep love for family and community. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched through ministry, teaching, and friendship.

Pastor Richard Mauthe Rev. Richard John MautheJune 20, 1948 – May 14, 2026 Rev. Richard John Mauthe, beloved husband, father, grandfather, pastor, teacher, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on May 14, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones, following a brief battle with cancer. He was 77. Born in Elizabeth, New...