First Reading:   Psalm 40:5-11

5 You have multiplied, O LORD my God, your wondrous deeds and your thoughts toward us; none can compare with you. Were I to proclaim and tell of them, they would be more than can be counted.

6 Sacrifice and offering you do not desire, but you have given me an open ear. Burnt offering and sin offering you have not required.

7 Then I said, “Here I am; in the scroll of the book it is written of me.

8 I delight to do your will, O my God; your law is within my heart.”

9 I have told the glad news of deliverance in the great congregation; see, I have not restrained my lips, as you know, O LORD.

10 I have not hidden your saving help within my heart; I have spoken of your faithfulness and your salvation; I have not concealed your steadfast love and your faithfulness from the great congregation.

11 Do not, O LORD, withhold your mercy from me; let your steadfast love and your faithfulness keep me safe forever

Second Reading:  John 1:35-42 

35. The next day John again was standing with two of his disciples,

36. and as he watched Jesus walk by he exclaimed, “Look, here is the Lamb of God!”

37. The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus.

38. When Jesus turned and saw them following, he said to them, “What are you looking for?” They said to him, “Rabbi” (which translated means Teacher), “where are you staying?”

39. He said to them, “Come and see.” They came and saw where he was staying, and they remained with him that day. It was about four o’clock in the afternoon.

40. One of the two who heard John speak and followed him was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother.

41. He first found his brother Simon and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which is translated Anointed).

42. He brought Simon to Jesus, who looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You are to be called Cephas” (which is translated Peter).

———

Title: The Echo of Grace: Hear, Come, and Tell

Scripture Focus: John 1:35-42 & Psalm 40:5-11

Introduction: 

The Beautiful Burden of a Secret

Have you ever received news so good that it felt like you would burst if you didn’t share it right away? Perhaps a job offer, a pregnancy, or a clean bill of health? 

The one that immediately came to my mind was when my oldest daughter was baptized. When we returned home she immediately ran to the neighbor to tell her.

In those moments, silence is impossible. Joy, by its very nature, demands to be shared.

Today, we look at two passages separated by centuries but united by a single heartbeat: the necessity of sharing the wonderful works of God. 

From the poetic testimony of David in Psalm 40 to the practical invitation of Andrew in John 1, we see that the Gospel of Christ is not a treasure to be buried, but a light to be held high.

I. The Foundation: Recognizing the Wonder (Psalm 40:5-8)

Before we can share the Gospel, we must be overwhelmed by it. David begins by marvelling at God’s intentionality:

“Many, O Lord my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us. None can compare with you…” (Psalm 40:5).

Sharing the Gospel isn’t about reciting a dry manual; it’s about reporting a miracle. David notes that God doesn’t just want ritual or “sacrifice and offering”—God wants a heart where the Word is written.

The Internalization: To share Christ, we must first let Christ “dig out” our ears (v. 6) so we can truly hear Him.

The Motivation: We share because we have discovered that God’s thoughts toward us are too many to count.

II. The Proclamation: Breaking the Silence (Psalm 40:9-11)

David makes a bold claim that challenges every “quiet” believer:

“I proclaim your saving help in the great assembly; I do not seal my lips, Lord, as you know.” (Psalm 40:9)

He uses four powerful words to describe God’s character: Righteousness, Faithfulness, Salvation, and Love. We often fear “witnessing” because we think we need to be theologians. But look at David’s strategy: he simply refuses to hide what God has done. He speaks of God’s “saving help” in the assembly.

The Challenge: Are our lips “sealed” by fear, or “opened” by gratitude? The Gospel is public news, not a private hobby.

III. The Invitation: “Come and See” (John 1:35-39)

Moving to the New Testament, we see David’s poetry put into action. John the Baptist sees Jesus and points: “Look, the Lamb of God!”

Two disciples hear this and follow Jesus. When Jesus asks what they want, they ask where He is staying. His response is the greatest evangelistic tool ever given to the church: “Come and see.”

Low Pressure, High Impact: Andrew didn’t start with a sermon; he started with an invitation to come see.

The Experience: They stayed with Him that day. We cannot lead people to a Christ we haven’t spent time with ourselves. Our “sharing” is most effective when it flows from a recent encounter with the Master.

IV. The Multiplication: The “First” Thing (John 1:40-42)

The text tells us something vital about Andrew:

“The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, ‘We have found the Messiah’ (that is, the Christ). And he brought him to Jesus.”

The Priority:  For Andrew, sharing Christ was not just another task on his list of things to do; it was the top priority. 

Unlike many people who may have put off evangelism or sharing their faith as something that could be done later, Andrew understood the urgency and importance of spreading the message.  

For all those who seek to follow in his footsteps must make sharing Christ their top priority as well.

The Impact: Andrew is often overshadowed by his brother, Simon Peter. But without Andrew’s simple act of sharing, would there have been a Peter to preach at Pentecost?

Your “Simon”: 

In every person’s life, there is always that one person in their circle who is just one invitation away from meeting the Messiah. 

This person may have gone through difficult times and may have strayed from their faith. However, there is still a glimmer of hope within them and they are just waiting for someone to extend a hand and guide them towards the light. 

They may be searching for something greater in their life and are open to the idea of finding spiritual fulfillment. 

It is up to us, as members of their circle, to recognize this potential and take the initiative to invite them to meet the Messiah. With a simple invitation, we can potentially change this person’s life forever and bring them closer to God. 

Conclusion: Will You Seal Your Lips?

The Gospel is a chain reaction of grace. David sang it, John the Baptist shouted it, and Andrew whispered it to his brother.

We don’t have to save the world. Jesus had already done that. We are only required to share the good news of what God through Jesus has done.

God has done “many wonders” in your life. He has drawn you up out of the slimy pit and set your feet on a rock. Now, He asks you to unseal your lips. You don’t need a degree; you just need a story and an invitation.

The call today is simple:

Look at the Lamb (John 1:36).

Come and see where He dwells (John 1:39).

Go and find your “Simon” (John 1:41).

 As believers, we are called to be witnesses of God’s faithfulness and help in our lives. We must not hide the blessings and miracles that He has bestowed upon us, but rather share them with those around us. 

By doing so, we can inspire and encourage others to also put their trust and faith in God. Let us not keep His goodness to ourselves, but let it echo through our words and actions for all to see. 

I pray the grace that we have received from God may continue to flow through us, spreading hope and love to those around us. As we lift up His name and proclaim His faithfulness, may others be drawn to experience His goodness and mercy as well. Let us be vessels of His grace, shining His light in a dark world and bringing glory to His name. May the echo of grace continue through us, touching hearts and transforming lives for the glory of God. Amen

The Opening Prayer: A Petition for Gathering

Most high and holy God, you are the Shepherd of Israel and the One who seeks the lost. We come before you now as a people who have long been scattered by our own wrongdoings. You promised in your Holy Word to gather us from the north and from the farthest corners of the earth.

Please look down on us, Lord. Give sight to the blind so they may see your wonderful light, and give strength to the weary so they may walk in the way of your commands. Let your Spirit move through this gathering, so that we don’t just hear about your redemption, but actually feel its power deep within us.

​Draw us close with your loving-kindness, and turn our sadness into a sacred hope for your grace. May we come together today to experience your goodness. Please open our hearts, align our wills with yours, and prepare our souls to receive the living water you have so freely promised.

​We ask this through Jesus Christ, our only mediator and advocate. Amen.

Scripture: Jeremiah 31:1-14 NRSVUE

[7]  For thus says the Lord: Sing aloud with gladness for Jacob, and raise shouts for the chief of the nations; proclaim, give praise, and say, “Save, O Lord, your people, the remnant of Israel.” 

[8]  See, I am going to bring them from the land of the north and gather them from the farthest parts of the earth, among them the blind and the lame, those with child and those in labor together; a great company, they shall return here. 

[9]  With weeping they shall come, and with consolations I will lead them back; I will let them walk by brooks of water, in a straight path where they shall not stumble, for I have become a father to Israel, and Ephraim is my firstborn. 

[10]  Hear the word of the Lord, O nations, and declare it in the coastlands far away; say, “He who scattered Israel will gather him and will keep him as a shepherd does a flock.” 

[11]  For the Lord has ransomed Jacob and has redeemed him from hands too strong for him. 

[12]  They shall come and sing aloud on the height of Zion, and they shall be radiant over the goodness of the Lord, over the grain, the wine, and the oil, and over the young of the flock and the herd; their life shall become like a watered garden, and they shall never languish again. 

[13]  Then shall the young women rejoice in the dance, and the young men and the old shall be merry. I will turn their mourning into joy; I will comfort them and give them gladness for sorrow. 

[14]  I will give the priests their fill of fatness, and my people shall be satisfied with my bounty, says the Lord.

A Call to the Outcasts: The Ransom of the Lord

A Sermon outline on Jeremiah 31:7–14

​I. The Joyful Proclamation

• In these verses you will hear, “North country, Israel, and Ephraim”, all refer to the 10 tribes who broke away from the land of Judah. His message is delivered to Judah. 

​“For thus saith the Lord; Sing with gladness for Jacob, and shout among the chief of the nations.”

Do you see, my friends, the divine order of grace? God does not wait for the sinner to find his own way home; He first sounds the trumpet of deliverance. In our natural state, we are like scattered sheep, lost in the wilderness of sin, wandering in the “north country*” of our own pride and rebellion.

*​Yes, the Almighty utters a cry of invitation! This is not a sullen call to duty, but a shout of gladness. 

Is it not the very essence of the Gospel that while we were yet sinners, Christ sought us? 

God commands His people to “proclaim” and “praise.” We are not to hide the light of His redeeming love under a bushel, but to proclaim it until the ends of the earth hear that “The Lord has saved his people.”

​II. The Inclusiveness of the Remnant

​“Behold, I will bring them from the north country… and with them the blind and the lame.”

Look at just who God gathers. He does not seek the strong, the self-sufficient, or those who boast of their own righteousness. No, He gathers the blind—those who cannot see the path; and the lame—those who have no strength to walk it.

​This is the very hallmark of Methodism and, indeed, of early Christianity. The grace of God is “free for all, and free in all.” 

Do you feel your own weakness? Do you stumble? Do you grope in the dark? Fear not! The Great Shepherd has a special care for the “woman with child” and the “woman in labor*.” His grace is sufficient for the most vulnerable. They will come “with weeping”—not the weeping of despair, but the holy mourning of repentance—and with “supplications” will He lead them.

• *”Woman in labor” and  With weeping they shall come” is a powerful metaphor used to describe the intense anguish, distress, and impending judgment facing Israel and Jerusalem, particularly as the “Daughter of Zion,” They will face destruction and exile; it’s also a call to summon professional female mourners to lead public lamentation for the nation’s sins. 

​III. The Watering of the Soul

​“And their soul shall be as a watered garden; and they shall not sorrow any more at all.”

​Here is the promise of Christian Perfection—that state of heart where the love of God is shed abroad so abundantly that the soul becomes like a garden, well-tended and blooming.

The Drought of Sin is a desolate and barren landscape, where the heart is left parched and cracked by the scorching heat of lust and the destructive winds of pride. 

It is a place where the absence of grace has left nothing but dryness and emptiness. However, through the power and influence of the Holy Spirit, the “rivers of waters” flow, bringing life and nourishment to this once barren land. The Living Water of grace quenches the thirst of the soul and fills it with peace, joy, and long-suffering. 

These are the fruits of the Spirit, which take root and flourish in a heart that was once overrun by thorns of malice. Through grace, the drought of sin is replaced with an abundance of spiritual growth and transformation. The heart becomes a fertile ground for love, kindness, patience, and all other virtues to bloom. 

The Living Water is a gift from God, and it is through this miraculous source that we can find true fulfillment and satisfaction in life. With grace, even the most desolate landscapes of our hearts can become beautiful gardens filled with the fruits of the Spirit.

​Does your soul feel like a desert today? The promise is to you! God does not merely offer a drop of comfort; He promises to ” (sāSHēˌāt) satiate the soul of the priests with fatness” and satisfy His people with His goodness.

​IV. The Exchange of Sorrow for Joy

​“Then shall the virgin rejoice in the dance… for I will turn their mourning into joy.”

​Can any power on earth transform a broken heart? No. But the power of God can. He takes the heavy garment of heaviness and replaces it with the “oil of joy.”

​Notice, it is a communal joy. Young and old rejoice together. This is the “fellowship of the saints.” We are not saved to be solitary, but to be built up into a spiritual house, where the “wheat, and the wine, and the oil” of spiritual blessing are shared by all.

​The Application

​My dear friends, are you still in the “north country”? Are you wandering in the cold indifference of a world that does not know God?

1. The message of “Repent: Turn your face toward Zion. Believe: Trust in the ‘Ransom’ mentioned in verse 11.
2. Look for the watering of your soul this very hour” is a call to turn away from our sinful ways and towards God. It reminds us that only through repentance and belief in Jesus, the ultimate sacrifice and ransom for our sins, can we be redeemed from the power of Sin and Death. The imagery of facing towards Zion, the holy city of God, symbolizes a turning towards God and His ways. 
3. By trusting in Jesus and expecting the watering of our souls, we can find true peace and salvation. This message serves as a reminder that no matter how strong the grip of Sin and Death may seem, the Lord has already redeemed us from it through His love and grace. It encourages us to put our faith in Him and eagerly await the refreshing and renewing of our souls through His power. 
4. This message speaks to the heart of every believer, reminding us to continuously turn towards God, trust in His plan, and expect His blessings in our lives.

​Let us not rest until our mourning is turned into dancing and our souls are satisfied with the goodness of the Lord. Amen.

​The Closing Prayer: A Benediction of Satisfaction

Lord God Almighty, you have rescued us from powers much stronger than ourselves. We give you our humble and sincere thanks for the Word we have heard today. We acknowledge that without you, our souls are like a parched and exhausted desert.

​We ask you to fulfill your promise: make our souls like a well-watered garden. Let the grain of your Word, the wine of your joy, and the oil of your Spirit overflow within us, so that we may never grieve like those who have no hope. Send us out into the world now—not as people still in over our heads, but as those who have been set free by the Lord.

​Help us be witnesses to the leading nations that you are a Father to your people. Keep us from wandering away; hold us close in your perfect love. Satisfy us so deeply with your goodness that we desire nothing but you, and nothing else in comparison to you. Now to Him who is able to keep you from falling, be honor and glory, forever and ever. Amen.

First reading: Isaiah 42:1-9 

The Servant, a Light to the Nations

1Here is my servant, whom I uphold,
    my chosen, in whom my soul delights;
I have put my spirit upon him;
    he will bring forth justice to the nations.

2 He will not cry out or lift up his voice
    or make it heard in the street;

3 a bruised reed he will not break,
    and a dimly burning wick he will not quench;
    he will faithfully bring forth justice.

4 He will not grow faint or be crushed
    until he has established justice in the earth,
    and the coastlands wait for his teaching.

5 Thus says God, the Lord,
    who created the heavens and stretched them out,
    who spread out the earth and what comes from it,
who gives breath to the people upon it and spirit to those who walk in it:

6 I am the Lord; I have called you in righteousness;
    I have taken you by the hand and kept you;
I have given you as a covenant to the people,[a]
    a light to the nations,

7 to open the eyes that are blind,
to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon,
    from the prison those who sit in darkness.

8 I am the Lord; that is my name;
    my glory I give to no other,
    nor my praise to idols.

9 See, the former things have come to pass,
    and new things I now declare;
before they spring forth,
    I tell you of them

Second reading: Matthew 3:13-17 NRSVUE

New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition

The Baptism of Jesus

13 Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him. 14 John would have prevented him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” 15 But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now, for it is proper for us in this way to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented. 16 And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up from the water, suddenly the heavens were opened to him and he saw God’s Spirit descending like a dove and alighting on him. 17 And a voice from the heavens said, “This is my Son, the Beloved,[a] with whom I am well pleased.”

Call to Worship

Leader:  Come! Let us follow Jesus to the edge of the Jordan River to be baptized. 

People:  We come to be cleansed and made whole.

Leader:  Come! Let us witness John’s confusion and Jesus’ insistence that John baptize God Incarnate.

People:  We come to join Jesus in choosing life in the kingdom of God.

Leader:  Come! Let us hear God declare the truth of Jesus’ identity and the truth of our identity as baptized people. 

People:  We come to remember and embody who we are as beloved children of God.

Leader:  Come! Let us worship God who leads us into the baptismal waters and salvation life.

People:  We come to worship God who empowers us through divine presence to live together as the family of God.

Opening Prayer

Everlasting God, during Jesus’ baptism, you revealed him as your own Son and anointed him with the Holy Spirit. We pray that you will guide and keep all of us who have been reborn through water and the Spirit, faithful to our calling as your people. 

We humbly acknowledge our own stubbornness, Lord. As we enter this season of your light shining upon the world and your blessings pouring out upon us, we find ourselves consumed with our own problems, needs, and desires. Help us to instead desire you, Lord. May our hearts yearn for your presence. Wash over us once again with the waters of baptism, cleansing us from self-pity and pride. Nourish and heal us so that we may joyfully serve you. Remove any jealousy, greed or negative thoughts that prevent us from truly living out our calling as your people. May we embrace the blessings of creation, Jesus’ birth and baptism, and the ministry of your holy saints.

We ask all this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Now hear these Words of Assurance

The love of God is always offered to us, freely, joyfully, for all eternity. Rejoice, dear friends, this is the good news of our Lord. Amen.

Sermon

We use as our text the readings from Isaiah 42 and Matthew chapter 3

​I. The Lowly Manner of the King

Friends, observe the method of our God. When the Almighty introduces His Chosen One, He does not speak of a conqueror with a sword of steel, but of a Servant. Isaiah tells us he shall not “cry out” or “lift up his voice” in the streets. There is no pride here, no worldly pomp.

​How does this match the scene at the Jordan? See the Lord of Glory standing in the muddy waters with sinners! John the Baptist rightly trembles, saying, “I need to be baptized by you.” But our Lord answers “To fulfill all righteousness.” True righteousness is not found in escaping the needs of humanity, but in stooping to meet them.

In the light of these scriptures, there are questions we must ask of ourselves.

​Am I willing to “fulfill all righteousness” by attending to the small, humble day by day actions of my life as though to the Lord, even when they bring me no worldly honor? Or do we ask, “What’s in it for me?”

Do I, like John the Baptist, allow my own ego to decrease so that Christ may increase in my life? Can I step out of being the center of my own universe? I remember a bumper sticker that said, if God is your copilot — you are in the wrong seat.

​II. The Gentleness of Divine Grace

​Mark well the character of this Servant: “A bruised reed he will not break, and a dimly burning wick he will not quench.” Is this not the very essence of the Prevenient Grace of God?

​The Bruised Reed: 

Have you ever felt like a reed by the water that’s been stepped on? Snapped, hanging by a thread, feeling useless? 

The world would snap that reed the rest of the way and throw it aside. But Jesus says, “I will not break you.” Perhaps you have felt your soul is snapped by the weight of sin or the sorrows of this life. 

The words of Amazing Grace come to mind. “‘Twas Grace that caused my heart to fear.” There is great fear when we realize how unworthy we are of God’s love and forgiveness. We can feel crushed under the weight of our failures when the Spirit shines a holy light upon us.

However, the hymn writer also penned these words of hope, “and grace my fears relieved” because he understood that Jesus came to save, to lift up, and to heal. He sought us before we even knew him.

​Let’s now turn those inward thoughts outward and ask, “How do I treat the “bruised reeds” in my life—the weak, the struggling, or those who have offended me? Do I crush them with my opinions, my words, or my deeds?

Or do I lift them up with my words, works, and prayers?

The Dimly Burning Wick: Perhaps your faith is but a flicker, nearly extinguished by the cold winds of the world. Maybe your faith feels like a candle that’s been blown out, where there’s no flame left, only a little bit of smoke. 

The world would pinch that wick and move on. But Jesus says, “I will not put out that spark.” ​

Ask yourself, can I be patient with my own “dimly burning wick,” trusting God’s work of Sanctification, or do I give way to that spiritual apathy which prevents understanding or faith. It can be described as a deep spiritual sleep or paralysis against divine callings. It can impact prayer and spiritual awareness. This requires spiritual awakening through prayer and study. 

​Hear the Good News! Our Christ does not come to crush you or blow out your fading hope. He comes to “faithfully bring forth justice.” He comes to bind up what is broken. He does not grow faint until His work in your heart is finished.

​III. The Baptism of Spirit and Fire

​As Jesus emerges from the water, the heavens are rent asunder. The Spirit descends—not as an eagle, a bird of prey, but “like a dove.” 

Here we see the “New Things” Isaiah spoke of.

​The Father’s voice declares, “This is my Son.” Friends, this is the Witness of the Spirit. Just as the Spirit rested upon Jesus, so it is offered to you. 

It is not enough to have the “form of godliness” as described in 2 Timothy 3:5-7 “ holding to the outward form of godliness but denying its power.” We must have the power thereof. It is this Spirit that opens the blind eyes and brings the prisoner out of the dungeon of habit and despair.

​IV. The Call to Holy Living

​Finally, consider that God has established a sacred, binding agreement with humanity in the firm of Jesus.  Christ was given as a light to the nations. If we are his followers, we cannot remain in the shadows.

​If the Father is “well pleased” with the Son for His humble obedience, shall He be pleased with us if we remain idle? We are called to be a Blessing.

1. ​Seek the Light: Allow the Spirit to show you your own heart.
2. ​Walk in Righteousness: Not by your own strength, but by the “Spirit put upon Him” which is now shared with us.
3. ​Tend the Reeds: Find those who are bruised and offer the same gentleness Christ offered you.

Here is the Life Application of this lesson. In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit hear these words.

The Lord declares “new things” this very hour. Do not wait for the wick to go out. Come to the flame of grace. Let the Spirit descend upon your life, that the Father might say of you also, “In this child, I am well pleased.”

Let us pray 

Divine Creator, through the baptism of Your beloved Son in the Jordan River, You consecrated water for the symbolic cleansing of sin. We, Your humble servants, ask for Your gaze upon us. We are grateful that You have not extinguished our flickering faith or crushed our fragile spirits, but instead have supported us through Your unmerited grace.

We pray that as the heavens opened for Him, the radiance of Your truth will illuminate our dark hearts. May Your Holy Spirit descend upon us, not for our own glory, but for the restoration of all nations. Take us by the hand and steer us away from worldly temptations, molding us into a people of covenant – pure, passionately doing good deeds and following in the footsteps of Your Son until we are perfected in love.

Hear our plea, in honor of Him who is the Light of the World, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Benediction: 

May you depart with peace; show affection and concern towards one another in the name of Christ; and may the same divine presence that filled Jesus, Isaiah, and John also fill your innermost being. May the strength of God, which sustained them, empower you for each day; and may the same love of God, which guided their every deed, be your guiding force and guiding light, both now and for eternity. Amen.

©2026 Thomas E Williams 

Created January 11, 2026

ACKNOWLEDGE PUBLICLY

Romans 10:9-10  “if you acknowledge publicly with your mouth that Yeshua is Lord and trust in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be delivered. For with the heart one goes on trusting and thus continues toward righteousness, while with the mouth one keeps on making public acknowledgement and thus continues toward deliverance.”  – 

Complete Jewish Bible version

ACKNOWLEDGE PUBLICLY

As human beings, we all have a deep desire to be acknowledged and accepted by others. We thrive on recognition and validation from our peers and loved ones. This desire for acknowledgement also extends to our faith journey – we want to be seen and accepted by God for who we are and what we believe. But there is a specific type of acknowledgement that holds great power in our spiritual lives – public acknowledgement.

In Romans 10:9, it says, “If you acknowledge publicly with your mouth that Yeshua is Lord and trust in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be delivered.” This powerful verse speaks to the importance of publicly acknowledging our faith in Jesus Christ. But what does it mean to publicly acknowledge our faith, and why is it so significant?

This excerpt from the United Methodist Book of Worship is part of the ritual of baptism. 

The pastor asks: “On behalf of the whole Church, I ask you: Do you reject all that is evil, repent of your sin, and accept the freedom and power God gives you to resist evil, injustice, and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves?”

The responsive is, “I do.”

The next question is, “Do you confess Jesus Christ as your Savior, put your whole trust in his grace, and promise to serve him as your Lord, in union with the Church which Christ has opened to people of all ages, nations, and races?”

The response again is, “I do.”

Public acknowledgement is more than just saying the words “I believe in Jesus.” It goes beyond a private confession of faith and involves making a public declaration of our beliefs. It is a bold and courageous act that requires us to step out of our comfort zone and share our faith with others. When we publicly acknowledge our faith, we are making a statement to the world that Jesus is our Lord and Savior.

But why is this public acknowledgement so crucial in our faith journey? 

First and foremost, it shows that we are not ashamed of our beliefs. In today’s society, there is often pressure to keep our faith hidden or to water it down to avoid offending others. However, by publicly acknowledging our faith, we are boldly proclaiming that it is an essential part of who we are and that we will not be silenced or ashamed of it.

Furthermore, public acknowledgement is an act of obedience to God. In Matthew 10:32-33, Jesus says, “Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven.” By publicly acknowledging our faith, we are fulfilling God’s command and showing our love and devotion to Him.

Public acknowledgement also opens up opportunities for fellowship, discipleship, and accountability. By surrounding ourselves with other believers, we can grow in our faith and become stronger disciples of Christ.

Moreover, public acknowledgement is a powerful tool for evangelism. As Christians, we are called to share the good news of Jesus Christ with others. By publicly acknowledging our faith, we are sharing our testimony and inviting others to know Jesus for themselves. Our public acknowledgement may be the very thing that leads someone else to salvation. I often say that the gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John are not as effective as the stories of Bob and Brenda or Jill and Jim. People respond to your living testimony far more readily than to those of people dead for thousands of years.

It is essential to note that public acknowledgement of our faith should not be a one-time event or a mere formality. It is an ongoing process that requires us to continue making public declarations of and living our faith. Romans 10:10 says, “For with the heart one goes on trusting and thus continues toward righteousness, while with the mouth one keeps on making public acknowledgement and thus continues toward deliverance.” 

In addition to publicly acknowledging our faith, it is also vital to trust in our hearts that God raised Jesus from the dead. This trust goes beyond mere belief; it is a deep seated conviction that Jesus is who He says He is – the Son of God and the Savior of the world. 

When we trust in the very core of our being and publicly acknowledge our faith, we experience a sense of freedom and deliverance from the bondage of sin. It allows us to let go of any shame or fear associated with our old identity. And lets us fully embrace our identity as followers of Christ.

Here’s the condensed version, public acknowledgement of our faith is a powerful and essential aspect of our spiritual journey. It shows our love and devotion to God, invites others to join us on our journey, and leads us towards righteousness and deliverance. As we continue to trust in our hearts and make public declarations of our faith, may we never be ashamed to boldly proclaim that Yeshua is Lord. Amen

Romans 13:6-7

The Importance of Honoring Authority and Paying Taxes

In the book of Romans, chapter 13, verses 6 and 7, the apostle Paul writes, “For the same reason you also pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, busy with this very thing. Pay to all what is due to them—taxes to whom taxes are due, revenue to whom revenue is due, respect to whom respect is due, honour to whom honour is due.” These verses may seem mundane and unrelated to our spiritual lives, but they actually hold great significance and importance in our relationship with God.

Firstly, we must understand that all authority ultimately comes from God. In Romans 13:1, Paul writes, “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.” This means that the leaders and authorities in our government have been placed there by God for a specific purpose. Whether we agree with their policies or not, we are called to respect and honor them as representatives of God’s authority on earth.

Paying taxes is a practical way for us to fulfill our duty to honor and respect authorities. In ancient times, taxes were used to fund the government and provide for the needs of the people. Similarly, in modern times, taxes are used to fund public services such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and national defense. By paying taxes, we are contributing to the overall well-being of society and fulfilling our responsibility as citizens.

Moreover, paying taxes also shows our trust in God’s sovereignty. As Christians, we believe that God is ultimately in control of everything and that He will provide for our needs. When we willingly pay our taxes, we are acknowledging that God has placed these authorities in our lives for a reason and that He will use our contributions for His greater purposes.

But it’s not just about paying taxes; Paul also emphasizes the importance of giving respect and honor to those in authority. This includes not only our government leaders but also our employers, teachers, and other figures of authority in our lives. By showing respect and honor, we are reflecting the character of God who is just and righteous.

In a world where rebellion and disrespect towards authority are becoming more prevalent, it is crucial for us as Christians to be a shining example of honoring and respecting those in authority. This does not mean blindly following every decision or policy, but it does mean treating them with dignity and showing grace and kindness even when we disagree.

Furthermore, honoring authorities is also a way for us to demonstrate our faith in God’s plan. We may not always understand why certain leaders are in power or why certain laws are in place, but we can trust that God has a greater purpose for everything. As it says in Proverbs 21:1, “The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; he turns it wherever he will.” Ultimately, God is in control and He can use even the most unlikely situations for His glory.

In addition to honoring authorities, Paul also reminds us to pay what is due to them. This goes beyond just taxes; it also includes giving them the respect and honor they deserve. As Christians, we are called to be responsible citizens who fulfill our civic duties and contribute to the well-being of society.

Paying taxes and honoring authorities may not always be easy or convenient, especially when we feel like our hard-earned money is being misused or when we do not agree with certain decisions. However, as followers of Christ, we are called to submit to authority and trust that God will use our obedience for His greater purposes.

Ultimately, Romans 13:6-7 reminds us that our relationship with God goes beyond just our personal spiritual life; it extends to how we interact with the world around us. By honoring authorities and fulfilling our duties as responsible citizens, we are glorifying God and living out our faith in practical ways.

In conclusion, let us remember the words of Paul in Romans 13:6-7 and strive to fulfill our duty to pay taxes, give respect and honor to those in authority, and ultimately trust in God’s sovereignty. May we be examples of good citizenship and reflect the love of Christ in all aspects of our lives.

LOVE OF CHRIST URGES US ON

(first draft)

2 Corinthians 5:14-15

“For the love of Christ urges us on, because we are convinced that one has died for all; therefore all have died. And he died for all, so that those who live might live no longer for themselves but for the one who for their sake died and was raised.”

As Christians, we are called to live a life that is centered around the love of Christ. This love is an active force that motivates and guides us in all aspects of our lives. 

In 2 Corinthians 5:14-15, we are reminded of this love and its powerful impact on our lives.

The passage starts by stating that the love of Christ urges us on. This word “urges” carries a sense of urgency and intensity. It is not a gentle nudge, but a strong and compelling force that drives us forward. The sense of urgency and intensity is not a mild push, but a powerful and persuasive drive that propels us ahead. This love is not passive, but rather proactive and deliberate. It motivates us to take action, to step out of our comfort zones and strive for a life that aligns with God’s will.

CHRIST DIED

The love of Christ is not just for a select few, but for all. The verse states that “one has died for all”. This speaks of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross for the forgiveness of our sins. God’s love for us is a love that knows no boundaries or limits.

ALL HAVE DIED

The verse then goes on to say that “therefore all have died”. This may seem like a strange statement at first glance, but it is a reminder that through Christ’s death, we have also died to our old selves. Our old sinful nature has been crucified with Christ and we are now made new in Him as Galatians 2:19b-21 states, “For through the law I died to the law, so that I might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ, 20 and it is no longer I who live, but it is Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” This death allows us to be free from the bondage of sin and live a life that is pleasing to God. 

GODCENTRIC

Why did Christ die for us? The verse continues by saying “so that those who live might live no longer for themselves but for the one who for their sake died and was raised”. Jesus’ death was not in vain. It was an act of selfless love that was done for our sake. And in response to this love, we are called to live a life that is no longer centered around ourselves, but for God.

LIFE OF SERVICE

Living for God means putting Him first in everything we do. It means surrendering our desires and ambitions to His will. It means living a life of obedience and serving others with love, just as Christ did for us. This may not always be easy, but the love of Christ urges us on and gives us the strength and motivation to keep going.

POINT OF VIEW CHANGE

When we truly understand the magnitude of God’s love for us, it changes everything. It changes how we view ourselves, others, and the world around us. We are no longer just living for ourselves, but for the one who died for us. Our purpose and identity are now rooted in Christ and His love for us.

REBORN TO SHARE

This love also has a powerful impact on our relationships with others. When we are motivated by the love of Christ, we see others through His eyes – as beloved creations of God who also need to experience His love and grace. It compels us to reach out and share the good news of Jesus with those around us, regardless of their background or beliefs.

REFLECTING JESUS

Furthermore, the love of Christ also guides us in how we treat others. In John 13:35, Jesus says, “By this all people will know that you are my disciples if you have love for one another.” Our love for others is a reflection of our love for Christ. It is a witness to the world that we are followers of Jesus. When we live in this way, our actions speak louder than words and draw others closer to God.

IN A RELATIONSHIP

So how do we practically live out this love of Christ in our daily lives? Firstly, we must constantly remind ourselves of God’s love for us by meditating on His Word. The more we understand His love for us, the more we will be motivated to live for Him. We can also seek to cultivate a deep and intimate relationship with Him through prayer and fellowship with other believers.

DELIBERATELY CHRISTLIKE

Secondly, we must be intentional in our actions and attitudes towards others. This means showing kindness, compassion, and forgiveness, even when it may be difficult. We can also look for opportunities to serve and bless others, just as Christ did for us.

LIVE TO LOVE 

To recap, the limitless love of Christ should be the driving force in our lives. It urges us on to live a life that is pleasing to God and to love others as He loves us. It is a love that knows no boundaries and has the power to transform our lives and the lives of those around us. May we always be reminded of this love and allow it to guide us in all that we do.

Having been loved, love!

Our scripture passage for today is Ephesians 1:7 “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace.”

To truly understand this passage I’m going to give you some background that you may or may not already know. So bear with me for a little bit, okay?

Under God’s law, sin requires reparation. Death is the consequence of sin as stated in Romans 6:23 “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

So, when Jesus Christ was put to death, He acted as a replacement for all of humanity in its state of sin. This is known as substitutionary sacrifice.

The concept of substitutionary atonement, where an innocent party takes the punishment for a guilty party, finds its roots in the Old Testament through the sacrificial system, particularly the Passover lamb and the Day of Atonement, foreshadowing Christ’s ultimate sacrifice. 

You may be familiar with the term scapegoat. A scapegoat is described in Leviticus 16, where the sins of the Israelites are symbolically placed upon the goat and it is sent into the wilderness.

Parenthetical inserts are mine for clarification.

Leviticus 16:7-10 He (Aaron) shall take the two goats and set them before the LORD at the entrance of the tent of meeting, and Aaron shall cast lots on the two goats, one lot for the LORD and the other lot for Azazel (a desolate place). Aaron shall present the goat on which the lot fell for the LORD and offer it as a purification offering, but the goat on which the lot fell for Azazel shall be presented alive before the LORD to make atonement over it (to ritually place the sins of the people upon the goat), that it may be sent away into the wilderness to Azazel. 

The idea of substitutionary atonement, also known as vicarious atonement, is a key belief in Western Christian theology. It states that Jesus sacrificed himself to pay for the sins of humanity, bearing the punishment and consequences that we deserved. 1 Peter 2:24 states “’He (Jesus) himself bore our sins’ in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; ‘by his wounds you have been healed. ‘” Corinthians 5:21 states,  “God made him who knew no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God,”

With this background information out of the way, we will dive deeper into the meaning of Ephesians 1:7 and explore how it can impact our lives.

The Bible is full of verses that speak to the human experience and provide guidance, comfort, and hope such as Ephesians 1:7 – “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace.” This powerful verse holds a deep meaning and offers a message of redemption, forgiveness, and grace that is relevant to all of us.

Redemption is a term often used in the Bible, and it refers to the act of being saved or rescued from something. In this case, Ephesians 1:7 tells us that we have redemption through Jesus Christ. This means that through his sacrifice on the cross and the shedding of his blood, we are saved from our sins and given a chance at eternal life. This is a powerful reminder of the love and mercy that God has for us. Despite our shortcomings and mistakes, He offers us redemption through His son.

It is important to note that this redemption is not something we can earn or achieve on our own. It is a gift from God that comes through His grace. This truth takes the pressure off of us to be perfect or to constantly try to earn salvation. We can rest in the knowledge that God’s grace is more than enough to redeem us.

The next part of the verse speaks about forgiveness – “the forgiveness of our trespasses.” Just as redemption cannot be earned, neither can forgiveness. It is given to us freely by God through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This forgiveness covers all of our sins – past, present, and future. It is a complete and total pardon for our wrongdoings. 

It’s important to understand that forgiveness does not mean that our actions are excused or that there won’t be consequences for our sins. However, through God’s forgiveness, we can be reconciled with Him and experience true freedom from the burden of guilt. We are no longer defined by our mistakes but by the grace and forgiveness of our loving Father.

As we continue to reflect on this verse, it’s important to note that the redemption and forgiveness mentioned in it are not limited to a one-time event. It is an ongoing process that we experience every day. We, me and you, will continue to fall short and make mistakes, but with God’s grace, we can continually seek forgiveness and be redeemed. God’s never-ending love for us and His desire for us to continually grow and improve in our faith.

The final part of this verse – “according to the riches of his grace” – is a powerful reminder of the abundance of God’s grace. He doesn’t just give us enough grace to cover our sins, but He lavishes it upon us in abundance. His grace is overflowing, never-ending, and more than enough for all of us. 

So what does this verse mean for us in our daily lives? First and foremost, it reminds us of the incredible sacrifice that Jesus made on the cross for our redemption. It also encourages us to seek forgiveness when we fall short and to continually grow in our faith. Finally, it reminds us to rest in the abundance of God’s grace and to extend that same grace to others.

May we always remember the power and importance of these truths in our daily lives and may they inspire us to live a life of faith, love, and gratitude. Amen my the yes the

1 Corinthians 5:6-8 (NRSVUE)

6 Your boasting is not a good thing. Do you not know that a little yeast leavens all of the dough? 7 Clean out the old yeast so that you may be a new batch of dough, as you really are unleavened. For our paschal lamb, Christ, has been sacrificed. 8 Therefore, let us celebrate the festival, not with the old yeast, the yeast of malice and evil, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.”

In the book of 1 Corinthians, Paul addresses the church in Corinth, urging them to remove a specific yeast that is causing harm and division among them. This passage, 1 Corinthians 5:6-8, speaks about the power of removing that yeast and the significance it holds for our lives as Christians.

Firstly, Paul reminds the Corinthians that boasting is not a good thing. Boasting is the child of pride and gives a sense of superiority, which are not traits that align with the teachings of Christ. Instead, Paul calls for humility and unity among believers.

He then goes on to use a metaphor of yeast to illustrate his point. Just as a small amount of yeast can leaven an entire batch of dough, so can a small amount of boasting and pride affect the entire church community. It only takes one person to sow seeds of division and malice within a community, and before we know it, the whole community can be affected.

You may be more familiar with a this updated version that says the same thing, “One bad apple spoils the whole barrel.” 

We may think that our actions and words do not have a significant impact on others, but the reality is that they can spread like a cancer and affect those around us. Therefore, we must be mindful of our words and actions, ensuring that they align with the teachings of Christ.

Paul then urges the Corinthians to clean out the old yeast so that they may be a new batch of dough. This statement carries a deeper meaning than just removing pride and boasting from their midst. It speaks about transformation and renewal.

As Christians, we are called to continuously strive for renewal and transformation in our lives. We are called to let go of our old ways and embrace the newness that comes with being in Christ. This process is ongoing and requires us to constantly examine ourselves and make changes when needed.

Paul then makes a powerful statement that Christ, our Paschal lamb, has been sacrificed. 

To better understand the significance of Paul’s analogy of the Paschal lamb let me explain. 

In the twelfth chapter of Exodus God commanded the Israelites to sacrifice a lamb and use its blood to mark their doorways, ensuring that the “destroying angel” would spare their homes during the last plague in Egypt which destroyed the first born male of humans and their livestock. 

The roasted Paschal lamb was then consumed alongside unleavened bread and bitter herbs as part of the Passover feast. This lamb represented liberation and rescue from captivity.

Paul’s words explain that in the New Testament, 

Christians view Jesus as the “Lamb of God,” who is offered as a sacrifice to redeem the sins of humanity, mirroring the significance of the Passover lamb in the Old Testament. 

In the gospel of John chapter one verses twenty-nine and thirty-six we read where John the Baptizer sees Jesus and exclaims, “Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.” Christian doctrine holds that a divine Jesus chose to suffer crucifixion at Calvary to save the world from its sins. 

Well that’s not quite right. Jesus didn’t save the world. He saved the people from their sins. 

Hmm! Let’s try that again. Jesus died to save me from my son and you from yours. Salvation is a very personal thing.

This is imagery by Paul is a reminder of the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus made for us on the cross. His death and resurrection have freed us from the power of sin and death, and have given us a new life in Him.

This truth should fill us with joy and gratitude, especially as we approach the season of Christ’s Resurrection. It should also serve as a reminder that our actions and attitudes should reflect this new life in Christ. We are called to live differently, to be holy, that means set apart from the ways of the world.

Therefore, Paul urges the Corinthians (and us) to celebrate the festival, not with the old yeast of malice and evil, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. This is a call to let go of our old ways of living and embrace a new way of life in Christ.

He reinforces this idea in his second letter to the church at Corinth where he writes, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”

It is essential to note that Paul is not calling for perfection here. He knows that we are all flawed and will make mistakes, but he is urging us to continually strive for a life that is pleasing to God. 

Since strive is not a word commonly used today we could substitute 

“struggle for”, “earnestly seek”, or “give it our all to gain.” As a Christian our past is gone so we need to actively try to live a life filled with sincerity and truth, where we are honest with ourselves and with others. This is the positive yeast that lifts us and those around us.

Boasting in an unhealthy yeast that is selfish and self-centered. In pride we attempt to lift ourselves above others. To not care for anyone but ourselves. This is less like yeast and more like cancer where the cells grow in an unhealthy manner.

1 Corinthians 5:6-8 highlights the significance of removing the yeast of pride, boasting, malice, and evil from our lives. It reminds us of the power that our words and actions hold and how they can impact those around us.

It also urges us to continuously strive for renewal and transformation in our lives, letting go of our old ways and embracing a new life in Christ. 

Ultimately, it calls us to celebrate the festival of the Resurrection with sincerity and truth, reflecting the purity and simplicity of our faith in Christ.

©2025 Thomas E Williams

BE STILL, AND KNOW THAT I AM GOD!

Finding Comfort and Strength in God During Difficult Times

Life is filled with many ups and downs. We all experience moments of joy, success, and happiness, but we also have to face difficult and uncertain times. These challenging times can come in many forms – be it personal struggles, a global crisis, or any unexpected event that turns our world upside down.

Born in the Nineteen fourties, I am a child of the Cold War. 

Offutt Air Force Base is a U.S. Air Force base south of Omaha, Nebraska. That is 141 miles from my hometown in Iowa. It is also the headquarters of the U.S. Strategic Command. As such it was surely a target of potential nuclear attack. Though we were outside the immediate kill zone of a nuclear bomb, the prevailing West to East winds would have carried radioactive debris and dust our way.

In school we conducted duck and cover drills. The drills were intended to protect us from a potential nuclear attack. Students were taught to hide under our desks or against a wall We were told to crouch with our knees near our chests and to cover our heads with our arms. 

During thise days, when tensions were high during the Cold War, the US government actively supported and advocated for the building of fallout shelters, both publicly and privately, in order to safeguard citizens from potential nuclear attacks.

Though my childhood was filled with the everyday joys such as riding my bicycle, climbing trees, fishing, running and jumping, and playing with my friends, much of my childhood also had an ever present fear of the bomb lurking in the background. It was as if the entire nation was covered by a form of PTSD PRE-traumatic stress disorder.

That was my generation. However every generation has it’s own fear filled background that in some way haunts them and colors their lives with dread.

In such moments, it’s natural for us to feel overwhelmed, anxious, and even lost. We may feel like we have nowhere to turn to for comfort and strength. Some of us may depend on our own skills and assets to get through these tough times. I was raised with the idea of self reliance whereby the less I relied others the stronger, the better, I would become.

Since becoming a Christian it has been hard to “Let go and let God.” The Frog Sunday school class motto of Fully Relying On God is not easy for some of us to live up to.

However as a Christian, I have increasingly found myself turning to God for comfort and strength during difficult times. The words of Psalm 46 provide a powerful reminder that God is our safe haven and source of strength in times of distress. These verses reinforce the unwavering belief and confidence we can have in God, no matter what chaos or uncertainty surrounds us.

The Psalm begins with the declaration, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1). This verse alone is a source of great comfort for me. It reminds me that no matter what challenges I may face, God is always there for me. In this mortal world where things can change in an instant, knowing that I have a stable and unwavering source of support brings me immense peace.

The Psalm goes on to say, “Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea” (Psalm 46:2). This verse serves as a reminder that even when everything around us seems to be falling apart, we do not need to fear because God is with us. He is our rock and our firm foundation, and nothing can shake us when we put our trust in Him.

As humans, we often tend to rely on our own abilities and strength during difficult times. We may try to control the situation or find solutions on our own. However, as the Psalmist says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth” (Psalm 46:10). These words remind us to be still and have faith that God is in control. He is all-powerful and will be exalted no matter what happens. This verse encourages us to release our worries and trust in God’s plan for us.

In addition to finding comfort and strength in God’s promises, I have also found peace in turning to Him through prayer and reading His Word. In times of distress, I often pray for guidance, strength, and peace. I also turn to the Bible for comfort and assurance. Reading verses like Psalm 46 reaffirms my belief that God is always with me, even during the most difficult times.

Moreover, Psalm 46 speaks of a future where “nations are in uproar” and “kingdoms fall” (Psalm 46:6). As I said earlier every generation has it’s own fear. Do while the psalmist’s words may seem daunting, they also serve as a reminder that God is ultimately in control. No matter how chaotic the world may seem, His plans will prevail.

As followers of Christ, we are not promised a life without trials and challenges. In fact, Jesus Himself said, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). Therefore, we can find hope and strength in knowing that we have a God who has already overcome the world. Through His Spirit He is always with us, ready to guide us and give us the strength we need to face any situation.

As a Christian, I have often found myself turning to God for comfort and strength during difficult times. The words of Psalm 46 provide a powerful reminder that God is our safe haven and source of strength in times of distress. These verses reinforce the unwavering belief and confidence we can have in God, no matter what chaos or uncertainty surrounds us.

As humans, we often tend to rely on our own abilities and strength during difficult times. We may try to control the situation or find solutions on our own. However, as the Psalmist says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth” (Psalm 46:10). These words remind us to be still and have faith that God is in control. He is all-powerful and will be exalted no matter what happens. This verse encourages us to release our worries and trust in God’s plan for us.

In addition to finding comfort and strength in God’s promises, I have also found peace in turning to Him through prayer and reading His Word. In times of distress, I often pray for guidance, strength, and peace. I also turn to the Bible for comfort and assurance. Reading verses like Psalm 46 reaffirms my belief that God is always with me, even during the most difficult times.

As followers of Christ, we are not promised a life without trials and challenges. In fact, Jesus Himself said, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). However, we can find hope and strength in knowing that we have a God who has already overcome the world. He is always with us, ready to guide us and give us the strength we need to face any situation.

It is true that during difficult and uncertain times, it is natural for us to seek comfort and strength in something bigger than ourselves. As a Christian, I have found immense comfort and peace in turning to God and His Word. The words of Psalm 46 are a powerful reminder that God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. He is our safe haven, our source of strength, and the one who will ultimately bring us through any difficult situation. So let us take comfort in His promises and trust in His plan for us, knowing that He is always with us.

The psalmist continues by saying, “Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult.” These words paint a vivid picture of chaos and destruction. The earth is changing, the mountains are shaking, and the waters are roaring. But even in the midst of this turmoil, the psalmist declares that there is no need to fear because God is with us.

This Psalm serves as a reminder to stop and consider the truth of these words. We may face difficult situations that seem insurmountable, but we must remember that God is greater than any challenge we may face. We can find comfort and strength in knowing that He is in control.

The psalm goes on to describe a river whose streams make glad the city of God. This river represents God’s presence and His constant provision for His people. It is a source of joy and refreshment, even in the midst of chaos. This imagery reminds us that in the midst of troubled times, we can find peace and joy in God’s presence.

Verse 5 declares, “God is in the midst of the city; it shall not be moved; God will help it when the morning dawns.” This verse speaks of God’s unwavering presence and protection. Just as a city built on a strong foundation will not be shaken, we can trust that God will keep us steady and secure. He will help us through our trials and give us hope for a new day.

The following verses describe a world in turmoil, with nations in uproar and kingdoms tottering. But in the midst of all this chaos, God utters His voice and the earth melts. This is a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty and power over all things. No matter how great the turmoil, God is still in control.

The psalmist then proclaims, “The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.” This verse serves as a refrain throughout the psalm, emphasizing the source of our strength and refuge – God Himself. He is with us, fighting for us, and protecting us from harm. We can take comfort in knowing that we are not alone in our struggles because the Lord of hosts is with us.

As the psalm continues, we are invited to behold the works of the Lord and see what desolations He has brought on the earth. This may seem like an odd invitation at first, but it serves as a reminder of God’s power to bring about change and bring justice to a broken world. He makes wars cease, breaks bows and shatters spears, and burns shields with fire. These images speak to His ability to bring peace and justice to all corners of the earth.

The psalm concludes with the powerful words, “Be still, and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations; I am exalted in the earth.” In the midst of chaos and turmoil, it can be difficult to find stillness and peace. Hang onto those words, “Be still and know that I am God.” This verse reminds us to be still and remember that God is in control. He is exalted above all nations and all circumstances, and we can find rest in knowing that He is God.

The final refrain of the psalm echoes once again, “The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.” These words serve as a reminder of God’s constant presence and protection. No matter what comes our way, we can find strength, peace, and refuge in Him.

The conclusion of Psalm 46 offers a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness and strength in times of trouble. It encourages us to turn to Him as our refuge and source of strength, knowing that He is always with us. We can find peace and comfort in His presence, even when the world around us seems to be falling apart. Let us take these words to heart and trust in the Lord of hosts, who is with us always. Be still, and know that He is God! Amen 

THEY DID NOT BELIEVE BECAUSE OF JOY AND AMAZEMENT

Luke 24:34-49

New International Version

34 and saying, “It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon.” 35 Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread. 36 While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” 37 They were startled and frightened, thinking they saw a ghost. 38 He said to them, “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts rise in your minds? 39 Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have.” 40 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and feet. 41 And while they still did not believe it because of joy and amazement, he asked them, “Do you have anything here to eat?” 42 They gave him a piece of broiled fish, 43 and he took it and ate it in their presence.

THE POWER OF THE RESURRECTION

Have any of you seen a U.F.O. an Unidentified Flying Object? If you have have you tried describing the event to others? 

I have seen two UFOs in my life. The first one was while I was in my early teens. We lived in a small settlement that wasn’t even an official town. We were well away from any towns or cities of any size. This is important because at night there was no light pollution. The stars and expanse of the Milky Way were clearly visible on this particular late spring evening. It was well after dark but it was such a glorious evening that I was still playing in the yard. 

That’s when I saw it. It was a large sphere glowing orange. At first I thought that it was the moon. However it was much too large – many times the perceived size of the moon in the sky. I went to the front door and called for my mother to come and see. Before long we noticed a few of our neighbors were also in their yard looking at this odd event. 

Some suggested that it was a hot air balloon. Others dismissed that by saying it was too perfect of a sphere to be a balloon and to quiet. There was no sound of the propane flame. I had never seen a hot air balloon until much later in life and they are surprisingly loud. 

More people were coming from their homes. And then it just disappeared like turning off a light switch. The stars were clearly visible in the space where the object had been. It hadn’t just gone dark. It was no longer there. 

Many of us stood standing and staring at the sky. Then one by one people returned to their homes. 

The next day there was some talk of the night before but before long we just quit discussing it. 

Now that I’ve shared my story do you believe that I saw a UFO? Have you formulated a theory that would provide a logical explanation of what I might have seen? Or have you just dismissed it as a delusional or as pure fiction? Am I a credible witness?

Now, how are you going to react if I tell you that I just saw my dead friend walking and taking to me?

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of the Christian faith. It is the belief that Jesus, who was crucified and buried, rose from the dead on the third day, fulfilling the prophecies and promises of God. In Luke 24:34-41, we see the disciples experiencing the reality of the resurrection, and their reactions teach us valuable lessons about the power and significance of this event.

The passage begins with the disciples recounting how Jesus appeared to Simon. Just moments before, they were filled with sorrow and despair after witnessing their beloved teacher being crucified. But now, their hearts were filled with joy and hope as they shared the news of Jesus’ resurrection. This is the first indication that something extraordinary has happened – Jesus has risen from the dead.

The resurrection of Jesus is the cornerstone of the Christian faith. It is a pivotal event in human history that transformed the lives of the disciples and continues to impact our lives today. As we read in the Gospels, after Jesus’ crucifixion, his followers were devastated and filled with fear. Their leader, whom they believed to be the Messiah, had been killed. But as they were discussing this tragic event, something miraculous happened – Jesus appeared among them, alive and well.

Imagine the shock and disbelief of the disciples as they saw their resurrected Lord standing before them. It was not just a figment of their imagination or a dream – it was real. And in that moment, Jesus greets them with the words “Peace be with you.” This greeting may seem like a customary way of saying hello, but it carries a much deeper meaning.

In John 14:27, Jesus says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.” This peace that Jesus offers is not temporary or superficial, but it is a peace that surpasses all understanding and can only come from God. It is a peace that calms our fears, soothes our anxieties, and fills us with hope and joy.

The disciples were in desperate need of this peace as they were struggling to come to terms with the events that had just unfolded. They had witnessed Jesus’ brutal crucifixion and had lost all hope. But in that moment, when he appeared before them, he brought them peace. This shows us the power of Jesus’ resurrection – it can bring peace even in the midst of chaos and despair. It is a reminder that no matter what we may be facing in our lives, there is always hope and peace to be found in Jesus.

However, instead of being overjoyed at seeing their resurrected Lord, the disciples were startled and terrified, thinking they were seeing a ghost. This reaction shows their lack of understanding and faith in the power of Jesus’ resurrection. They had seen him perform miracles during his ministry, yet they still could not comprehend the reality of his resurrection. How often do we also struggle to believe in things that seem impossible? The resurrection teaches us to have faith in God’s power and to trust in his plans for our lives, even when they may seem unimaginable.

The disciples’ initial disbelief and fear were quickly replaced with overwhelming joy and amazement as Jesus showed them his wounds and ate with them. This was the moment they truly understood the significance of his resurrection. It was not just about defeating death, but it was also about the fulfillment of God’s promises and the redemption of humanity.

The peace that Jesus offers is not just for the disciples or the early believers, but it is for all of us today. In a world filled with chaos, violence, and uncertainty, we can find peace in knowing that Jesus has overcome the world through his resurrection. He has conquered sin and death, and through him, we have eternal life.

But this peace is not something that can be achieved through our own efforts or by following societal norms. In John 14:6, Jesus says, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” True peace can only come from having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. It is through him that we can experience true peace and find rest for our souls.

Moreover, this peace is not limited to just our personal lives. As followers of Christ, we are called to be agents of peace in this world. In Matthew 5:9, Jesus says, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” We are called to spread the peace that Jesus offers to those around us, to be a light in the midst of darkness, and to bring hope to those who are in despair.

The resurrection of Jesus is not just a historical event that happened 2000 years ago. It is a powerful reminder of God’s love for us and the hope and peace that he offers. It also challenges us to have faith and believe in the impossible, just like the disciples did. As we celebrate Easter and remember the resurrection of our Lord, may we be filled with peace and joy, and may we continue to spread his message of love and hope to all those we encounter.

Jesus then invites the disciples to look at his hands and feet, to see the scars from the crucifixion. He even invites them to touch him, proving that he is not a ghost but a tangible and living being. This moment is significant because it confirms the reality of the resurrection. Jesus did not rise as a spirit or a symbol; he rose in his physical body, conquering death and providing evidence for his followers to believe in his resurrection.

As the disciples were still struggling to believe, Jesus asked them if they had anything to eat. This may seem like a strange question, but it serves as another proof of his resurrection. Ghosts do not eat or have physical bodies that require nourishment. By eating in front of them, Jesus reaffirms his physical resurrection and dispels any doubts or disbelief they may have had.

The disciples’ reactions to Jesus’ resurrection teach us that even those who were closest to Jesus struggled to understand and believe in the power of the resurrection. But as they witnessed and experienced it firsthand, their doubts turned into joy and amazement. This transformation is a reminder that the resurrection has the power to change our lives from despair to hope, from doubt to faith, and from death to eternal life.

The significance of Jesus’ resurrection goes beyond just proving his deity or fulfilling prophecies. It also holds immense power for our lives today. In 1 Corinthians 15:17, Paul writes, “And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.” The resurrection is what gives us hope for eternal life and salvation. It is proof that Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross was accepted by God and has the power to save us from our sins.

Moreover, the resurrection also gives us hope for our own physical bodies. Just as Jesus rose from the dead with a glorified body, we too will have new, resurrected bodies in the future. This promises us that death is not the end, but through Christ, we have the hope of a new and eternal life.

In conclusion, the resurrection of Jesus Christ is not just a historical event; it is a powerful and life-changing reality. It teaches us the power of God to overcome death, doubt, and despair. It gives us a firm foundation for our faith and hope for our future. As we celebrate Resurrection Sunday and remember his resurrection, let us be reminded of its significance and allow it to transform our lives. May we have faith in the power of the resurrection and live in the hope and peace that it brings.