Pastor Adam Thompson, Ascension Lutheran Church

Text: Luke 7:18-28  

Is Jesus the one we have been waiting for? John the Baptist sends his followers to ask Jesus this question. Then Jesus asks the crowds questions about John. "What did you go out into the wilderness to see?” He asks them. We ought to consider these two questions as well, especially as we near Christmas. What am I waiting for? What am I looking for?  

Pastor Adam Thompson, Ascension Lutheran Church

Pastor Adam Thompson, Ascension Lutheran Church

Elder Bob Booth, Ascension Lutheran Church

Pastor Adam Thompson, Ascension Lutheran Church

Pastor Adam Thompson, Ascension Lutheran Church

Text: Revelation 7:9-17 

On All Saints Day we remember those who have died in the faith. Yet it isn’t about death. It is rather a celebration of abundant life that has swallowed up death in victory! In Revelation 7 we are presented with the image of where our loved ones and all the saints who have died in the faith now live. They live among a multitude of people no one can number from every tribe, language, and place; they are all gathered around the throne of God freed from pain, sin, and sorrow. When our time comes or our Lord returns, we will join them in eternal splendor in the presence of our God!  

Pastor Adam Thompson, Ascension Lutheran Church

Text: Romans 3:19-28 and John 8:31-36 

In celebration of the Protestant Reformation, we are reminded of Martin Luther’s great rediscovery of the freedom found in God’s Word. Salvation isn’t something we earn or accomplish nor is God’s love. Each are a gift of grace through the works of Jesus Christ. Jesus satisfied the Law and on the cross exchanged our sin stained lives with His perfect righteousness. The righteous do indeed live by faith in the gospel! To God be the glory!  

Pastor Adam Thompson, Ascension Lutheran Church

Pastor Adam Thompson, Ascension Lutheran Church

Key Verse: John 15:12 

Jesus’ final instructions to His disciples before His passion begins is “Love one another as I have loved you.” What does this have to do with Stewardship? Love is the centering principle that drives the spirit of Christian Stewardship. God’s love for you and the command He places on us, His disciples, to reflect that love to others. That includes our use of His blessings of our time, our abilities, and the possessions He has entrusted us with. This love is not found in us, but only in Christ. So we must remain connected to Christ in order to love one another through our faithful stewardship.   

Pastor Adam Thompson, Ascension Lutheran Church