As we embark on the season of Advent, we're invited to reflect deeply on its profound themes and spiritual insights. We began with a curious juxtaposition of socks, Lego Spider-Man, tea, Himalayan dog chews, and fishing lures. While they seem unrelated, they all symbolize how our culture can shape our perceptions of this sacred time. Advent calendars of every kind show up, encouraging a focus on material accumulation. Yet the true essence of Advent lies in preparation, expectation, and reflection on both the first and second comings of Jesus. The Gospel of Luke, chapter 21, serves as a poignant reminder that amidst chaos and uncertainty, our focus should be on hope. Just as the story of the solitary figure outside the White House with a candle tells us, these practices do more than merely attempt to change the worldthey keep us anchored in faith. During Advent, we reconnect with themes of hope, peace, joy, and love, grounding ourselves in the knowledge that Jesus brings redemption and renewal. In doing so, we resist the temptation to be overwhelmed by life's troubles and instead, remember to lift our heads in hope, assured that our Redeemer is near.

Advent is a time of preparation, reflecting on both Jesus' first and second coming.

Material distractions, like those represented in secular Advent calendars, can obscure the true spiritual preparation of the season.

Hope is a central theme of Advent, with a focus on Christ as the source of redemption.

Despite the world's troubles, believers are called to focus on Jesus for true hope.

The importance of not being changed by the world, but instead keeping focus on Christ.

Questions for Reflection:

How do the seemingly unrelated Advent calendar items mentioned in the sermon reflect our culture's approach to Christmas, and how might this distract us from the true meaning of Advent?

In what ways can we, like the pastor with the candle, engage in practices that prevent the world from changing us rather than trying to change the world?

How does Jesus' prophecy about the destruction of the temple challenge our assumptions about permanence and security in our own lives?

What does it mean to 'lift up your heads' in times of distress, as Jesus instructs, and how can we practically apply this in our daily lives?

How does Bonhoeffer's analogy of trapped miners hearing rescuers approach relate to our understanding of hope in Christ's return?

In what areas of your life do you find yourself putting hope in things other than God, and how can you redirect that hope?

How does the reminder that Jesus experienced human suffering change our perspective on our own struggles?

What practices or rituals can we incorporate into our lives to keep our focus on the true meaning of Advent and Christmas?

How can we be 'people of hope' in a world that often seems hopeless, and what does it look like to share that hope with others?

In what ways does the certainty of Christ's return impact how we live our daily lives and face uncertainties?

As we conclude our journey through the Torah, we're reminded of the profound truth that rules alone cannot change our hearts. The book of Deuteronomy, with its retelling of God's laws, serves as a powerful illustration of humanity's need for divine intervention. Moses' seemingly discouraging speech actually points to a greater hope - God's promise to circumcise our hearts. This spiritual circumcision, echoed by prophets like Jeremiah and Ezekiel, foreshadows the transformative power of Christ and the Holy Spirit in our lives. We're called to recognize that true change comes not from our own efforts, but from God's indwelling presence. As we reflect on this, let's consider how we might open our hearts to God's transformative work, moving beyond mere rule-following to a deep, life-giving relationship with Him.

How does the idea of God 'circumcising our hearts' challenge our understanding of personal transformation and spiritual growth?

In what ways might we be tempted to rely on moral formation and rule-following rather than a relationship with God, and how can we shift our focus?

How does the concept of God writing His law on our hearts, as mentioned by Jeremiah, differ from simply knowing and following rules?

What parallels can we draw between the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land and our own spiritual journeys?

How might understanding the Old Testament laws as a 'profile of God's character' change our approach to reading and applying scripture?

In what ways does Jesus' teaching on being 'born again' relate to the promises made in Deuteronomy and by the prophets?

How can we cultivate a deeper dependence on the Holy Spirit in our daily lives, rather than trying to live the Christian life in our own strength?

What are some practical ways we can 'open our hearts to relationship with God' as the sermon suggests is central to the Christian life?

How does the image of 'abiding in Christ' as a vine challenge our understanding of what it means to live a Christian life?

In what ways might our spiritual disciplines (prayer, Bible reading, etc.) become counterproductive if we view them as the source of change rather than as ways to open ourselves to God's work?

NOTE: We did a pulpit swap this Sunday; this is the message Pastor Carl preached at Church of God United in Muskegon. This is why video and audio are different from our typicalIn this message, we're reminded of the fundamental importance of loving God with all our heart, soul, and strength. The sermon delves into Deuteronomy 6:4-9, the famous 'Shema' prayer, which Jesus later cited as the greatest commandment. We're challenged to consider what it truly means to love God with everything we have. It's not just about feelings, but about action and obedience - a response to God's incredible love for us. The message emphasizes that our obedience isn't about earning God's favor, but rather a grateful response to the grace we've already received. This perspective shift can transform how we approach our faith and daily lives. As we reflect on this, we're encouraged to 'immerse' ourselves in God's word, letting it shape our vision and guide our actions in every aspect of life.

How does understanding God's unconditional love for us, even before we do anything for Him, change our approach to obedience and service?

In what ways can we 'recontextualize' ancient biblical laws and principles to apply them meaningfully in our modern lives?

How might regularly reciting or meditating on the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4-5) shape our daily thoughts and actions?

What are some practical ways we can 'impress' God's commandments on the next generation, as Moses instructs in Deuteronomy 6:7?

How can we integrate God's word into our daily routines, like the metaphor of writing it on our doorframes and gates?

In what ways does loving God with all our heart, soul, strength, and mind manifest in our relationships, work, and daily decisions?

How can we balance viewing obedience as a response to God's love rather than a way to earn His favor?

What are some creative ways we can 'soak' or 'immerse' ourselves in Scripture throughout our day?

How might our perspective and actions change if we truly viewed everything we do, even mundane tasks, as service to God?

In light of the sermon's message, how can we better love those who hold different political views or come from different backgrounds?

In this exploration of faith and trust, we delve into the book of Numbers and the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land. The central story revolves around the spies sent to scout the land and the subsequent rebellion of the people. This narrative serves as a mirror to our own struggles with fear and doubt. We're challenged to consider: Do we truly believe God's intentions for us are good, even when faced with obstacles? The Israelites' failure to trust God, despite His numerous miracles and provisions, led to consequences but also revealed God's enduring faithfulness and forgiveness. This journey through the wilderness becomes a powerful metaphor for our own spiritual growth, reminding us that God doesn't just command us to be better - He actively shapes us through our trials and challenges. As we reflect on this, we're invited to see our own 'wilderness experiences' as opportunities for God to deepen our dependence on Him and strengthen our faith.

God remains faithful even when His people rebel

Fear and anxiety can lead to rejecting God's plans

The wilderness is a place of testing and spiritual growth

God doesn't just command obedience but actively shapes His people

Challenges in following Jesus are opportunities for growth

God's ultimate goal is to make us love Him more deeply

How do we sometimes resemble the Israelites in failing to trust God despite His past faithfulness in our lives?

In what ways might God be leading you into a 'wilderness' experience, and how can you approach it with trust rather than fear?

How does the concept of the 'dark night of the soul' challenge or enhance your understanding of spiritual growth?

What are some modern-day 'giants' or obstacles that make us hesitant to follow God's calling?

How can we distinguish between God's discipline and punishment in our lives, and why is this distinction important?

In what areas of your life are you tempted to 'go back to Egypt' rather than face the challenges of following God?

How does Jesus' response to temptation in the wilderness inform our own strategies for resisting temptation?

What does it mean to truly love God rather than just the 'trappings' of religious experience?

How can we maintain faith and trust in God's goodness when we don't feel His presence or see immediate results?

In what ways might God be using your current circumstances to shape you into the person He's calling you to be?

In this exploration of Leviticus, we're invited to reconsider our understanding of holiness and its relevance in our daily lives. The central theme revolves around God's call for His people to be set apart - not for isolation, but for the purpose of reflecting His goodness to the world. We delve into the intricacies of ritual purity and moral purity, understanding that these ancient laws were designed to keep God's people constantly aware of His presence in every aspect of their lives. The message challenges us to think about how we, as modern believers, can embody this same level of devotion and awareness. Are we as concerned with our moral distinctiveness as the Israelites were with their ritual cleanliness? This reflection invites us to consider how our daily choices and actions can serve as a powerful testimony of God's love and justice in our world.

How does understanding the concepts of holiness, purity, and impurity in Leviticus change your perspective on your daily life and choices?

In what ways can we, as modern believers, embody the spirit of Leviticus' laws about caring for the poor and vulnerable in our society today?

How might our lives and communities be different if we were as mindful of moral purity as ancient Israelites were of ritual purity?

What are some practical ways we can show that 'every part of our life matters to God' in our current cultural context?

How does the idea of God setting limits on our desires for our own good challenge or affirm your view of God's character?

In what ways can we apply the principle of 'not twisting justice' in our personal relationships and societal roles today?

How can we balance the call to be 'set apart' with the command to love our neighbors, especially those different from us?

What are some modern equivalents to 'leaving edges of our fields unharvested' that could demonstrate trust in God and care for others?

How does the reminder that every person is created in God's image impact how we engage in political discourse and treat those with opposing views?

In light of the sermon's message, how can we approach the communion table with a renewed understanding of our need for cleansing and God's provision through Christ?

In this exploration of God's faithfulness, we delve into the stories of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob from the book of Genesis. These narratives reveal a profound truth: God's promises endure despite human flaws and failures. We see how God chose a family line, beginning with Abraham, to bring about His plan of redemption for the world. Despite numerous obstacles including famine, deception, and family conflict God remained steadfast in His commitment. This message challenges us to trust in God's plan, even when circumstances seem dire or our own actions fall short. It reminds us that we, as spiritual descendants of Abraham, are called to be a blessing to others in our daily lives. Just as God used imperfect people to fulfill His purposes, He can use us too, regardless of our past mistakes or current struggles. This encouraging perspective invites us to embrace our role in God's ongoing story of redemption and to live with the confidence that comes from knowing we serve a faithful God.

How does the concept of 'dysfunctional closet syndrome' apply to our understanding of the Old Testament, and how can we overcome it to better grasp the overarching narrative?

In what ways do the repeated failures of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob challenge our expectations of biblical heroes, and what does this reveal about God's character?

What parallels can we draw between the stories of Eve in the Garden and Sarah with Hagar, particularly regarding trust in God's promises?

How does Joseph's statement 'You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good' shape our understanding of God's sovereignty in the face of human choices?

In what ways are we, as followers of Jesus, called to be 'vehicles for God's blessing to the world,' and how can we practically live this out?

How does the recurring theme of God's faithfulness despite human failings in Genesis inform our view of personal shortcomings and God's ability to use us?

What insights can we gain from the genealogies in Matthew and Luke about the continuity of God's redemptive plan throughout history?

How might viewing the Old Testament as 'our family story' change our approach to reading and applying these ancient texts?

In what ways can the church embody God's inclusive family, accepting and encouraging people despite their imperfections, while still promoting growth and transformation?

As we conclude our journey through the book of Revelation, we're reminded that this powerful text is not just a script for the future, but a guide for our present lives. The central message calls us to keep our focus on Jesus, the Lamb who was slain. We're challenged to examine where we place our worship and allegiance. Are we inadvertently bowing down to false idols even good things like success or security instead of giving our full devotion to God? The vivid imagery of Revelation serves to reshape our imagination, presenting a counter-cultural view of power and salvation. We're invited to see true strength in the sacrificial love of Christ and to embrace a vision of God's kingdom that includes people from every nation and language. This perspective should transform how we live and interact with others daily. As we hear the recurring promise 'I am coming soon,' we're urged to live with both urgency and expectancy, always ready to respond to what the Spirit is saying to us today. Let's embrace this call to stay alert and pour our energy into the present, trusting that God's future will be more wonderful than we can imagine.

How might our understanding of worship change if we truly grasp that even good things, like angels, are not to be worshipped? What areas of your life might be at risk of becoming objects of misplaced worship?

The sermon suggests that Revelation is meant to reshape our imagination about power, exemplified by the image of a slaughtered lamb. How does this contrast with worldly notions of power, and what implications does it have for how we live as Christians?

In what ways might we be getting distracted by the 'envelope' (symbols, numbers, speculation) of Revelation rather than focusing on its core message about Jesus? How can we refocus on the central purpose of this book?

The phrase 'I am coming soon' is repeated multiple times in the closing of Revelation. How does this create a sense of urgency without promoting anxiety, and how can we apply this perspective to our daily lives?

How might our approach to prayer and daily life change if we more frequently used the phrase 'Come, Lord Jesus' (Maranatha)? What situations in your life right now need this prayer?

The sermon emphasizes that Revelation is a 'script for the church, not a script for the future.' How does this perspective change the way we read and apply the book of Revelation to our lives today?

Revelation presents a vision of people 'from every nation, tribe, people, and language' worshipping together. How does this challenge our natural tendencies towards tribalism, and what practical steps can we take to embrace this diverse vision of God's kingdom?

The sermon suggests that worship helps us 'reshape our imagination.' In what ways does our regular gathering for worship reform our understanding of God, ourselves, and the world?

How does the concept of Revelation as a letter to seven churches (representing all churches) impact our interpretation of its message? How might this affect the way we apply its teachings in our local church context?

The sermon concludes by emphasizing God's grace as a gift. How does viewing salvation and our relationship with God as entirely gift-based (rather than earned) change our approach to faith and service?

NOTE: No video due to technical issues.As we explore the final chapters of Revelation, we're invited to contemplate how our future in God's kingdom should shape our present lives. The vision of a new heaven and new earth isn't just a distant hope, but a call to action today. We're challenged to be faithful witnesses, sharing the gospel with urgency and living undivided lives fully devoted to Christ. This message reminds us that our ultimate allegiance is to the Lamb, not to any earthly power or ideology. How can we embody the values of God's kingdom now promoting human flourishing, seeking reconciliation, and resisting injustice? By aligning ourselves with God's vision for the future, we can make a tangible difference in our world today, all while remembering that it's God alone who will bring His kingdom in its fullness.

How does the vision of a new heaven and new earth in Revelation impact the way you live your life today? What specific changes might you make to align more closely with this future reality?

The sermon emphasizes the importance of sharing the gospel. What are some practical ways you could incorporate sharing your faith into your everyday activities and conversations?

How do you balance living 'in the world' with the call to not be divided in your allegiance to Christ? Are there areas of your life where you find this particularly challenging?

What does it mean to you personally to 'walk in the light of Jesus' in all aspects of your life? How might this look different in various contexts (work, home, social settings)?

The sermon discusses the tension between political engagement and ultimate allegiance to Christ. How do you navigate this balance in your own life and interactions with others?

In what ways can you contribute to 'human flourishing' in your local community or on a global scale? How does this relate to the vision of the new creation in Revelation?

How does the image of the 'slaughtered lamb' at the center of Revelation's praise challenge our cultural views on power, violence, and solutions to conflict?

The sermon mentions the danger of questioning other Christians' faith based on political differences. How can we maintain unity in the church while engaging in important discussions about social and political issues?

What role do you think the Holy Spirit plays in empowering believers to live out the values of the future kingdom now? How can we be more open to the Spirit's guidance in this area?

How does the concept of 'witness' in Revelation challenge or expand your understanding of what it means to be a Christian in today's world?

In this exploration of Revelation 21 and 22, we're invited to contemplate the awe-inspiring vision of the new heaven and new earth. The central message revolves around God's ultimate plan to dwell among His people, fulfilling the promise echoed throughout Scripture: 'I will be their God, and they will be my people.' We're challenged to see beyond the vivid imagery of a radiant city, flowing rivers, and trees of life, to grasp the profound truth that our greatest joy will be the unmediated presence of God. This message encourages us to reorient our lives now, recognizing that our ultimate goal isn't just to do things for God, but to be with Him. As we navigate the complexities of our current world, we're reminded that we're called to participate in the renewal of culture, speaking prophetically against injustice and working towards the redemption God promises. This vision of eternity invites us to live with hope, knowing that one day all tears will be wiped away, and we'll experience the fullness of God's presence forever.

How does the image of a city coming down from heaven challenge or expand your understanding of the afterlife? What aspects of this heavenly city resonate most with you?

In what ways does the concept of God's presence being the ultimate fulfillment of human existence impact your daily spiritual life and priorities?

How might viewing culture and civilization as potentially redeemable rather than inherently evil change the way Christians engage with society?

What are your thoughts on the idea that we will continue to create, build, and develop in the new heaven and new earth? How does this affect your view of work and creativity in this life?

How does the interconnection of garden, city, and temple imagery in Revelation reflect God's plan for humanity throughout biblical history?

In what ways can we cultivate a deeper sense of 'life with God' now, rather than falling into patterns of living 'under', 'over', or merely 'for' God?

How does the promise of God wiping away every tear and eliminating death, mourning, and pain speak to your current struggles or those of people you know?

What are the implications of understanding that the physical presence of God will be our greatest joy in eternity? How might this shape our desires and pursuits in the present?

How does the idea of a 'new Jerusalem' that incorporates elements from throughout biblical history (Eden, Exodus, Temple) deepen your appreciation for God's overarching plan of redemption?

In what ways does the sermon's emphasis on God's presence as the ultimate goal challenge or affirm your current understanding of salvation and eternal life?

In this exploration of Revelation 21, we're invited to contemplate the awe-inspiring concept of a new heaven and a new earth. This isn't just about an escape from our current world, but a profound transformation of all creation. The imagery of no more sea, tears, or death paints a picture of a reality free from chaos and suffering. As we delve into this vision, we're reminded that our hope isn't in fleeting earthly solutions, but in the redemptive power of God. The parallels drawn with Genesis highlight the cyclical nature of God's plan - from creation to new creation. This message challenges us to live with an eternal perspective, recognizing that our actions today have significance in light of God's ultimate renewal. As we face life's struggles, we can find comfort and courage in the promise that God is 'making all things new,' including us.

How does the concept of a 'new heaven and new earth' challenge or expand your current understanding of the afterlife?

In what ways might our view of the physical world and our bodies change if we truly embrace the idea of a physical resurrection and renewed creation?

How does the promise of 'no more death, mourning, crying, or pain' in the new creation impact how we face suffering and loss in our present lives?

What are the implications of God 'making all things new' rather than creating all new things? How might this affect our stewardship of the current creation?

How does the image of the New Jerusalem 'coming down out of heaven' reshape our understanding of the relationship between heaven and earth?

In what ways does the hope of bodily resurrection challenge cultural attitudes towards death, aging, and the human body?

How might the promise of a renewed creation influence our approach to environmental issues and care for the planet?

What does it mean for us that God is described as the 'Alpha and Omega' in the context of new creation? How does this shape our trust in Him?

How can we balance living for eternity while still engaging meaningfully with our present world and responsibilities?

In what ways does the Christian hope of resurrection differ from other cultural or religious concepts of the afterlife, and why is this significant?