When we recognize how extraordinary God is and how ordinary we are by comparison, we may feel that God is too different from us to understand us or too distant from us to be close to us. But when read the Christmas story with a fresh interpretation, we discover that God came to us in many ordinary ways, easing our fears that he is too different or too distant. Instead, he became like us and came close to us.
"relationship" Tagged Sermons
In spite of what many Christians think and teach, God’s primarily plan for your life is not good behavior so you can make a positive impact on the world! According to the One whose birth we celebrated and whose return we await, these things are “nothing” if we neglect primary invitation to abide in me. Don’t miss this, or any message in this series, so you can learn what it means to abide in Jesus, how to experience this blessed life and the rewards that will result in your life in 2022 and beyond!
Why is solitary confinement torturous? Why is loneliness so severe? After walking with Jesus, the Apostle John observed that the Father and Son’s relationship is one of with-ness. This message heralds this union, hints at how this union answers the questions above and points to how it models an intimacy with God similar to what we can also have.
Who are we? What is our purpose? What will bring us fulfillment? We are children of God, created to be in relationship with Him, follow His commandments and demonstrate His character for His glory and our joy.
We long for the fantastical and we long for the relational. Our resurrected king is the origin and perfect embodiment of them both; the only one who can fully fulfill our longing.
Since the beginning, God has wanted to have close intimate relationships with His people. Even on Mt. Sinai, He was calling His people to a marriage-like covenant with Him. God is calling, but He allows the closeness of relationship with Him to be up to us. What type of relationship will you choose?
Our present technology and culture allow for efficient multitasking. We successfully implement it almost everywhere but worship. Isaac Watts saw long ago what we still see today: a struggle to maintain focus in our designated times for praise. He, like the Psalmist in Psalm 98, calls for more than singing; he calls for internalization of songs. As the world around us sings for joy, we are to do the same, knowing that the One who reigns is sovereign, but also benevolent; a Savior who gave Himself so that we can lose an eternity of separation and gain an eternity of relationship.
Unlike most rulers, Jesus did not have security guards to shield him from the people. Rather, He came low to bend His ear and share His words with ordinary people. A man with diseased skin, a woman with fever, violent homeless men and a grieving father all received visit, experienced a conversation and were changed by Jesus. In this message we discover that the One who is exalted at the Father’s right hand still comes near, converses with and can change our lives forever.
His kingdom is beautiful because he is there
Paul had great courage to stand in faith in the midst of the storm. Where did this come from? How can we stand courageously to face the storms of life that press against us?