The Promise of Power

Jews living under Roman occupation in first century Palestine were looking for a power-filled Messiah to restore Israel’s glory days of King David. Their hopes hinged on promises like that of Micah 5:2-5a. However, Messiah Jesus, who ultimately fulfills Micah’s prophecy, upends our earthly ideas of power. Jesus invites us into the other-worldly Kingdom of God where the first are last and the least are the greatest; where losing is gaining, dying is living, and leading is serving. If you missed Sunday’s message you can watch the 4:00 p.m. outdoor service livestream here.

The Promise of Joy

 

We live in a world full of fear – politically, socially, economically, and more! Fear inclines us to hunker down, isolate, and stick with our own tribe. The Bible’s antidote for fear isn’t bravery. It’s joy. God’s presence in our midst quiets our fears and brings us joy (Zephaniah 3:14-20). Sadly, Old Testament Israel often tried to keep God’s joyful presence to themselves. They mistakenly believed God’s good news was only for those religiously aligned. Christ’s birth shatters any notion that God’s joyful presence can be possessed or contained. As the angel announced to the shepherds, Christ’s birth is “Good news of great joy that will be for all the people.” If you missed yesterday’s sermon, you can listen to it here or watch the entire service here.