The twin themes of Psalms 1-2 emerge now with intentional clarity. Primarily consisting of songs attributed to David, Book I outlines the rise of David from shepherd boy to king and then points to the greater Son of David promised to Israel in the future. The declaration of these truths can be seen in nature, but seldom are recognized; so God has given a more personal revelation in His Law.

(Book I conclusion—Psalm 41:13.)

Psalms is a collection of songs and poetry reflecting the experiences of men grappling with both a good and gracious God and the struggles and evils of human life. The book can be broadly divided into praises and laments. More than any other biblical book, Psalms articulates our own struggles of faith. It voices the highs and lows of our own soul when we are unable to find words to express our heart’s cry.

Jesus has so far presented Himself as Messiah to representatives of Israel in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and Galilee, with a mixed reception. John now turns to the conflict that begins in Jerusalem and does not end until the blind nation has put her Messiah to death—what is the purpose of the Sabbath?

Fresh from the spiritual awakening in Sychar among the Samaritans, Jesus returns to Cana of Galilee where He previously changed water to wine. Amid the expectation for more impressive wonders, He chooses here to act in hidden ways in order to downplay amazement and increase real faith. He still does.

Today’s culture esteems experts and values specialization. Yet people desire authenticity, not statistics. They want to know the story behind our lives. Jesus was adept at meeting individuals where they were emotionally and spiritually. He models evangelistic concern and persuasive encounter in daily conversation.

We live in a day of physical and spiritual fatigue…pandemic disease, cultural hostility, attacks on family life, corporate and political corruption, to name only a few causes. How can we endure? How can we be strong enough to face the challenges ahead? The answer for God’s people is the same as it has always been…“wait for the LORD.” What does this mean?

The gifts have been opened, the lights turned off, the decorations stored away. What now of Christmas? Is it a holiday to be enjoyed in passing and then left alone for another year? Or…is everything different somehow because of that special day? What comes after?

Following His interview with Nicodemus, Jesus leaves Jerusalem and declares the coming of His Kingdom to the people by affirming the Old Covenant as displayed in the ministry of John the Baptizer. The transition to the New Covenant is completed as the Baptist testifies to Jesus and the Apostle announces the terms of salvation.

As we celebrate his role as a pastor at Evergreen, Emilio Lartigue brings us a word from the Prophet Jeremiah.

Max Barnett fills our pulpit this day to share from his own life the importance of the Word of God.