Verse: Romans 1:16 (NIV) For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.
It can be scary to talk to others about Jesus. It is often one of the things, like politics, that we avoid. But having a fear about sharing the gospel can be quite different from being ashamed by it. May we overcome any fears we might have about sharing the gospel, or our faith in Jesus, with others. May we fully embrace the wonderful gift of salvation that comes from claiming the truth of the gospel message.
Opening Prayer: Father God, so often we do not know or even appreciate how much You have to offer us. We are often blinded by what it takes for us to simply make it through the day. Help us to know and appreciate You. Help us to see the blessings that await us as we turn to You and submit our lives to You. If we are so blessed to know You already, help us to help others to find You. We are here to worship You now, in this place, wherever this place may be for each one of us. May You speak to us as we read Your Word, worship You through song, and receive You through the message we are about to hear. All these things, in the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Message [used with permission from A Sermon for Every Sunday]: “A Jesus Style Jubilee” by Scott Spencer, New Testament scholar.
In this Sunday’s sermon from Luke 4:14-21 New Testament professor Scott Spencer says, “Just as everyone remembers their first kiss, so preachers remember their first sermons. In both cases it’s usually a bittersweet memory,” But for Jesus it was different. “Instead of shaking his hand and hugging his neck, the audience lays violent hands on him and tries to wring his neck…So, what in the world did Jesus say in that sermon to set his neighbors off like that?” It’s a good question, and Spencer–one of the most engaging scholars of our time–has some good answers.
Closing Prayer: Father God, what a wonderful work You have done in Your people! We praise You for all you have done. While we await the return of Jesus, the Christ, we will serve You and You alone. May we hear Your call and respond! Such a Jubilee! We have been forgiven! May we continue to celebrate how You are revealed to us and through us, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Verses: Romans 1:12-13 (NIV) I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong— that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith.
While we often like to think we are self-sufficient, there are times when we do need help from others. Additionally, most of us enjoy spending time with people. As Christians, our faith matures as we learn to live in community with other believers. These verses remind us that we can be an encouragement to each other. Others may be encouraged by how we handle difficult situations in our lives, by how we treat others even when we are stressed, or by the positive attitude we are able to maintain even when we know there are challenging times ahead of us. May we be an encouragement to others. May we come along side those who are struggling – lifting them up, encouraging them in their faith, and helping them to remain strong. May we also receive encouragement from others when we feel burdened or weak in our faith.
Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life.
Father God, we are grateful to be able to follow Your Son, Jesus, the Christ. May we always be willing and able to do so. While we may yearn for a time when all things will be renewed, let us continue to do that which we have been called to do until that time comes. Amen.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Father God, as you know, we often struggle to handle all of life’s challenges. There doesn’t seem to be an end to the burdens we feel we face. Thankfully, You are with us through these challenges times and You provide us with rest when it is most needed. May we always feel Your caring presence. Amen.
That little prayer we say before eating a meal isn’t grace; it is giving thanks to God for His provision. Grace is an unmerited gift from God, through his Son Jesus, which we should always be humbled to receive.
“And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.”
Father God, as we focus on the work of Your Son upon the cross, we trust You to determine our final destination and final reward. We love You, Lord God, and seek to serve others in a way that brings You honor and glory. Amen.
Faithfully Yours Forever 