Loving God, Serving Others
May 26, 2023
It’s Memorial Day weekend, people.
Many of you were in the military. Many of you know some who served and some who paid a hefty price or the ultimate price for our freedoms. Remember, and be grateful. We’ll have a video tribute to soldiers in the service this Sunday.
My biblical rumination this week has centered around the last verses in 2 Corinthians 6 and the first in chapter 7. Paul ends chapter 6 with some fantastic promises: “I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.” And… “I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.” Amazing promises! Ancient gods like Zeus did not live among the people, much less consider them as beloved sons and daughters. But out God does. Amazingly, the Creator of the Universe, the God of Angel Armies wants to hang out with us! This Mighty God calls himself Father… and calls us sons and daughters. Absolutely incredible. Paul follows up with this: “Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.” If the 3x holy God is going to draw near, walk with us and call us family… we ought to resemble him. We’re called to purify ourselves from anything that contaminates both body or spirit. That might include thoughts, viewing habits, reading material, questionable substances, attitudes that poison… well, anything. And it’s up to us to evaluate and toss. ‘Purify ourselves’. Tough? But look at the benefits: God drawing near, calling us valued sons, beloved daughters. I think it’s worth it. Time for some personal eval? I’ve been asking God to show me attitudes or actions that do not line up with his character. Join me!
Thanks again for your generosity with the Awana sale ($5600!!) and the missions trip pie auction ($1500!!). It was fun and helpful for both ministries.
Oh, by the way, no prayer on Monday afternoon. Enjoy the time off!
This Sunday
Last Ace for the spring! Rick will finish up his look at conflict resolution.
Rick is also speaking in the service (I’m out for a week: shoulder replacement surgery. I probably shouldn’t preach on powerful painkillers…) He always does a great job. We’ll see the aforementioned Memorial Day video and worship as usual.
See you Sunday?
Pastor Rob
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