A weekly look back and look forward from Pastor Wayne
Looking Back: This past Sunday we were privileged to enjoy a nice day without snow or rain, so it was great to see so many people out! You will recall that we discovered Ruth received blessing through her obedience to her mother-in-law Naomi’s direction. Obedience always begins with small things. We were reminded of the Christmas example of Joseph following the direction of the angel and despite the potential disgrace, taking Mary to be his lawful wife!
We were reminded that obedience always comes with a cost. I trust you took time to inventory what costs would be associated with obedience in your life? I would encourage you not to let this important lesson leave you. Whatever our age, our stage of life, God is always stretching us with new opportunities to be obedient. My prayer is that you will always say yes, even if the stretching hurts!
Looking Ahead:
I’m writing this week’s edition of “From the Pastor’s Desk” on Christmas Eve afternoon. I hope to see you this evening at 7.00 pm for our special service. I’m taking a bit of a different approach and concluding our Advent series from Ruth tonight. Considering Ruth 4, we will discover a surprise in Jesus family. Getting to the surprise, we will be reminded that family isn’t always convenient. If you’ve ever experienced the inconvenience of family, you will relate to Ruth chapter 4. While family can be inconvenient, we discover in the Ruth story that family also includes unique blessings. I’m sure you can relate. Finally, we learn that family is God’s plan. Yes, sometimes family is sticky, sometimes it’s a real challenge, but it’s God’s idea! Join us tonight for Christmas carols, a kid’s story, and lighting of the candles.
Looking Beyond: This coming Sunday we move on from Ruth to a message from Scripture I’ve titled – This is Church. And church is when Jesus is experienced. Don’t miss Sunday @ 10.30. Love to see you out even if the weather isn’t perfect. Long range forecast – rain for Sunday!