This past week our nation was focused on freedom. The celebration of the 4th of July is filled with fun traditions! Parades showcasing our society, the rockets red glare from a firework display, and a BBQ cookout. We love freedom. Why would anyone throw that away. This is what the Apostle Paul was faced with in the early Christian church of Galatia.
Christ has not only given us his powerful Word. In his grace, he gives us ministers who proclaim that Word to us in whatever ways we need at the time: words of comfort, words of instruction, or even words of rebuke. Those who are entrusted with the care of Jesus’ flock are expected to shepherd that flock just as Jesus would.
How committed are you? Half-hearted or all-in, none of us how what we need deep down to follow Jesus. BUT Jesus’ words have power. The Spirit create the faith and commitment Jesus needs from his followers. Jesus went all in to rescue us from sin. Are you ready to follow him?
Evil is crushed by our God. That’s a true statement, but how you ask? First we should consider what evil truly is.
God bless you! Gesuntite! As you hand the person the hanky, the word you say is a custom because at one time people thought that you could sneeze out your soul. The blessing of God is not just a meaningless polite phrase. God’s blessing was given to his people.
Should we stay or go? That is the question the people of the world wrestled with shortly after the flood. They settled on staying, against God’s wishes for the purpose of making a name for themselves. Our love God confused their languages and they scattered across the world. This language barrier was undone on that first Pentecost that started the New Testament church. That harvest festival continues today as we share God’s word with anyone who will listen.