23 and Me
Good Wednesday to you,
Have you ever considered having your DNA tested to discover your genetic history? A handful of people raised their hands on Sunday indicating they had done just that. We will not discover who the first Scot or Ethiopian was this side of eternity, but we know the origins of the Jewish people. God began with Abraham. The religious leaders of the day were confident that they were descendants of Abraham, and Jesus did not disagree with them. However, He did challenge their spiritual DNA. If they were the children of Abraham, they would love Jesus. Spiritually speaking, they were the children of the devil, the father of lies.
Jesus spoke to those who believed in Him and said, "If you hold to my teachings, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free" (John 8:31). The promise given to Abraham found its fulfilment in Jesus. When we make Jesus the Lord and Savior of our lives, we are adopted into God's family. As a result, our spiritual DNA begins to change. Not all at once, but gradually, as we grow in our understanding and application of Jesus' teachings. Take a look at the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), Christian ethics found in Luke 6, John 15-17, or start at the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20) if you want to study the teachings of Jesus. John makes it clear that Jesus and the Father are One. If you want to know the Father, get to know the Son. If you desire to see your spiritual DNA change, hold to the teachings of Jesus.
Next Sunday you will "meet" the man born blind. I will focus on 9:1-12 on Sunday, but I would encourage you to read the entire chapter between now and Sunday. It's one of my favorite passages in John's account of the Gospel. Next Sunday is also Worldwide Communion Sunday. Believers all over the world will be celebrating with the Lord's Supper next Sunday.
The day before we will be having our annual All-Church Picnic! The festivities will begin at 4:30pm with lots of things for the young (and the young at heart). There will be plenty of food: smoked pulled pork, brisket, and salmon provided and you will bring the side dishes. (Click here to sign up and find out what you can contribute). A good time will be had by all. I hope to see you all there, but please register!
I also want to thank all who have already responded to our stewardship campaign for the coming year. Transitions in pastoral leadership are always difficult. This is the time to stand together, preparing and praying for the next pastor. Please consider joining Jody and me as we pray for and seek to faithfully steward Graham's future.
May the fullness of God's grace be abundantly upon you all.
Grace and peace,
Pastor David
If you missed this Sunday’s sermon, click here to listen now!
