Jesus comes to deal with messy people. All of these people teach us something about Jesus. The shepherds teach us to be willing to follow. The Woman at the Well reminds us to focus on the future, not the past. The publicans and tax collectors challenge us to meet people where they are. The religious leaders challenge us to be bold when dealing with truth. The disciples remind us that God will never give up on us.  

Jimmy Cockburn - Messy Places

Matthew 1 – Matthew’s genealogy of Jesus proves that God is in control and keeps His promises.  God redeems the unredeemable and gives people with a messy past grace, mercy, hope, and a future.  No one is beyond the love of God.  He will use anyone who comes to Him.  The Messiah came to save sinners and give them a new purpose. 

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 - Paul writes to help these people develop a deep inner strength that helps in times of difficulty.  We must possess a heart of gratitude.  Prayer needs to be as natural as breathing.  Every day, we must rejoice in who God is and what He has done in our lives.  These three elements are essential to Christian growth.

Romans 13 / Titus 3 We are incredibly privileged to live in a democracy where we are allowed a voice in our Government. To represent our heavenly citizenship well, we must actively pray and support our Government in embracing Biblical values. We must teach our children honor and respect for authority by modeling a life that practices honor.  

Jeremiah 29:7 - Jesus was incredibly political, but He focused on the Kingdom of Heaven and not the cities of men. God calls us to be ambassadors of His Kingdom in the world. His Kingdom is one of unity, love, and obedience to God. Represent Jesus well during this election. Vote this week to help God’s Kingdom and your country prosper.  

 Jimmy Cockburn - Resurrection of Christ 

1 Peter 5:12-14 – Peter focuses on 3 things essential to a life of peace when faced with hardship and persecution. He reminds us to surround ourselves with a community of believers. Peter wants us to treasure the grace that God has shown us. He challenges us to love and focus on the needs of others. As you leave this morning, I pray that you experience the peace of God this week. 

1 Peter 5:8-11 – Peter commands us to be self-controlled and alert. He does not want us to focus on the noise and fear that Satan tries to create in our lives. Peter wants us to stop fighting against God's plan and respond appropriately to our difficulties.  

 Jimmy Cockburn - 1 Peter 5:5,6