Reminders

The other day I made myself a Peanut Butter and Banana sandwich for lunch.  It reminded me of Elvis, and how I always used to make fun of the various things he ate.  For some reason, that reminded me of things that remind me of other things.  Some are goofy, some are serious, some are happy and others not; but regardless, I find it interesting to know that some things remind us of other things.  For example…

A Servant’s Love – Sermon Summary

John 12:20-33.

If you just glance at this passage, you could conclude that the Greeks who wanted to approach Jesus never received an answer to their request.  I think otherwise.  Another feature in this passage is Jesus’ declaration of the time finally being at hand.  How many other times in reading the Gospels have we heard Him declare that His time had “not yet” come?

Scripture was about to be fulfilled.  There was only one way for this to happen.

Peace – Sermon Summary

Luke 2:21-38.  The role of Jesus was to bring God’s love to those who were anticipating it (as well as those not).  This sense of relief, or peace, should be present in Christians today.

Love – Sermon Summary

Matthew 1:18-25.

God’s gift of love has positive effects on all of His people.  The gift of love is really God giving of Himself.  The Bible teaches us that God is love.  We see this as God cares for His people as a shepherd loving his flock.  The ultimate example of this is in the life, ministry and substitutionary sacrifice of Jesus Christ.  And we also see the gift in the Holy Spirit, sent to believers upon receiving the Lord into our hearts as our Counselor, Teacher, Encourager; the very presence of God with us – Emmanuel!

Merry Christmas

With time quickly approaching one of the most beautiful days of the year, I simply want to wish all a Christ-filled Christmas.  May the joy of the Lord completely envelop your life both now and forevermore.  My prayer for you is that of God’s peace and love.