A Few Favorites

This story of healing reflects the miraculous power of Jesus to change lives, but what makes this story stand out – is the faith of the paralyzed man’s friends. It is their faith that motivates Jesus to not only heal this man – but to forgive his sin! They did whatever it took – tearing a hole in the roof – to get their friend before Jesus. This is the mission of the church – to carry people to Jesus – even if it means tearing a hole in the roof. Are we ready to carry people to Jesus?

When it comes to faith, it’s easy to feel like we’re doing it wrong. We look around and see people at work or in the church who always seem like they have it all figured out. Meanwhile, we’re bending over backward to keep up appearances, trying to make sure that all of the “real Christians” in our lives don’t discover that we really don’t have a clue. I mean, we believe in God; but sometimes, it feels like he‘s a million miles away.

Psalm 121 is a “song of assent” this means it was sung while Israelites traveled, most likely when they were making their pilgrimage to Jerusalem to worship and honor God. The road to Jerusalem was rough and could be dangerous – singing this song reminded the Israelites that no matter what God was present, with them. God was leading/guiding and protecting them. When I have found myself on rough roads, this Psalm has been a source of courage and comfort. When things are rough/painful/hard/challenging/ difficult we needed to be reminded (and perhaps even sing) that God is still God and God is still good.

Not the kind of questions like who will win the super bowl or what’s for dinner? But questions like: Who am I? What is the meaning of life? What is my purpose? Do I matter? Am I known and accepted, for who I am? Am I loveable?
Psalm 139 is a beautiful psalm made up of four stanzas – each stanza gives us a glimpse into God’s heart, especially God’s heart for God’s people. Here is a basic summary of the points I will make from each stanza: 1. When we know God – as the one who fully and completely knows us – we become seen, known and accepted. 2. When we know God as the one who is ALWAYS with us – we have a faithful companion through all of life’s storms. 3. When we know God as our Creator – we discover our worth and value. 4. When we know God as the one who searches our heart – for the purpose of transformation – we receive the unconditional and enteral love our hearts long for … This is true for us, true for the people we love and true for all people.