Good Wednesday to you,
I don’t know about you, but when I need expert advice, I want it coming from someone properly educated on the subject. I want to be able to press on with confidence, knowing that I am standing on solid information from a source I trust. The author of Hebrews gives us solid information regarding the supremacy of Jesus Christ over angels, Moses, and every high priest who has ever served in the Tabernacle. Knowing what we know, we can press on, persevere, and move forward with confidence.
In the mid-section of Hebrews 10, the challenge to act on what we know by cultivating a heart that longs for intimacy with God is key. The challenge to let the assurance of our faith (who Jesus is and what He has done) inform our hope (the promise of restoration until His return) is equally important. It is the intersection of our faith (past) and our hope (future) where we love (the present). Our ongoing challenge is to "spur one another on toward love and good deeds." This is not an exercise to earn "spiritual merit badges;" it is an applied effort to honor and glorify God with the spiritual gifts given to us (think Romans 12 and 1 Corinthians 12) while cultivating the spiritual fruit growing within us (think Galatians 5:22). Next week we will finish the 10th chapter (10:26-39). This is a warning before we move on to the "Hall of Faith!"
As we prepare to discard our masks (June 15th, God willing), I want us to remember that not everyone will feel comfortable removing their masks. Vaccinated and non-vaccinated people will respond differently to the release of the mask mandate. Regardless of where you stand on the issue, let us strive to be gracious toward those who hold a different opinion. This will be a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate the love of God toward all.
If you would like to be a lay reader at the 9:00 a.m. service, we would love to include you in the rotation. It is easy! We will provide you with the "Prayer of Confession," which you invite the congregation to join you in praying, and the Scripture reading (plus the introduction) on Tuesday or Wednesday preceding the Sunday you would read. Click here if you would like to be a part of our worship team on Sunday morning at 9:00.
I want to remind you that if you want to be in our online directory you must opt in. We will not provide your information to anyone without your permission. By opting in, you will have access to those who all who have opted in. Currently, that number stands at 116 and climbing! If you do not want to be included, you do not need to do anything.
Thank you for your ongoing prayers and support. We are seeing "the light at the end of the tunnel." We appreciate your patience as we move forward.
Grace and peace,
Pastor David
If you missed this Sunday's sermon, click here to listen now!
