2025-12-28 THE DEEP, DEEP LOVE OF GOD FOR US

Discovering God's Deep Love: Seeing Through 

Jesus' Eyes on the Cross

Ever Wonder How Deep God's Love Really Is?

Have you ever paused to consider the depth of God's love for you? It's a question that can transform your understanding of faith and life. This past Sunday, we explored this profound theme through the lens of Psalm 22, a passage that offers a unique glimpse into Jesus' experience on the cross. This sermon wasn't just a recounting of biblical events; it was an invitation to see the world through Jesus' eyes and to grasp the magnitude of His love for us.

The Cross Through Jesus' Eyes

Imagine standing at the foot of the cross, witnessing the events of that day. Psalm 22, written a thousand years before Jesus' crucifixion, prophetically captures His thoughts and feelings. It begins with the haunting words, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Psalm 22:1). These words, echoed by Jesus on the cross, reveal the depth of His suffering and the weight of our sins that He bore.

As Jesus hung there, He saw the mocking crowd, the soldiers casting lots for His garments, and His mother standing by. Yet, in the midst of His agony, He uttered words of forgiveness and love. "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do" (Luke 23:34). This is the heart of our Savior—compassionate, forgiving, and full of grace.

Why Solitude Matters in Spiritual Growth

In the solitude of the cross, Jesus demonstrated the power of being alone with God. It was in this solitude that He fulfilled His mission, offering Himself as the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. This solitude wasn't just physical; it was a profound spiritual experience. Jesus' cry of abandonment, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46), reflects the depth of His isolation as He took on the sins of the world.

For us, solitude can be a time to hear God's voice and grow spiritually. When was the last time you paused to listen for God in the quiet moments of your life? Solitude allows us to reflect on our relationship with God and to understand His love more deeply.

Practical Steps to Embrace God's Love

Understanding God's love isn't just about knowledge; it's about transformation. Here are a few steps to help you embrace this love:

1. Reflect on Scripture: Spend time reading Psalm 22 and the Gospel accounts of Jesus' crucifixion. Let these passages speak to your heart.

2. Seek Solitude: Find moments of quiet in your day to pray and listen for God's voice. Solitude can be a powerful tool for spiritual growth.

3. Share the Good News: As you experience God's love, share it with others. Be an ambassador of His grace and forgiveness.

A Prayer for Deeper Understanding

Heavenly Father, thank You for the deep, deep love You have shown us through Jesus. Help us to see the world through His eyes and to understand the sacrifice He made for us. May we find moments of solitude to hear Your voice and grow in our faith. Guide us to share Your love with those around us. In Jesus' name, Amen.

As you go about your week, remember that God's love is vast and unending. Let it transform your heart and inspire you to live out your faith with courage and compassion. If you're exploring faith or seeking to deepen your relationship with God, we invite you to join us at our next service or reach out for a conversation. You're not alone on this journey, and we're here to walk alongside you.

2025-12-14 GOD WITH US BRINGS JOY

Discovering Joy in Unexpected Places: Embracing God's Presence Amidst Life's Chaos

Ever Feel Stuck in Life's Waiting Room?

Imagine being stuck in an airport on Christmas Eve, surrounded by blinding lights, overpriced snacks, and the smell of warm cheese. Your plans are falling apart, and tempers are rising. Sound familiar? This scenario, though humorous, mirrors our own lives when we wait for joy to arrive through a change in circumstances. But what if joy isn't about everything going right? What if it's about someone coming near?

The Shepherds' Night of Joy

Let's travel back to a hillside near Bethlehem, where shepherds were keeping watch over their flocks. It was an ordinary night until an angel appeared, proclaiming the greatest news ever: "I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people" (Luke 2:10). The arrival of Jesus brought joy not because life suddenly became perfect, but because God came near.

The shepherds, often overlooked and undervalued, were the first to hear this joyful news. This reminds us that God's joy is for everyone, especially the weary and broken. It's not about perfect conditions but about the presence of Jesus in every circumstance.

Why Joy Isn't Situational

In our quest for joy, we often wait for life to calm down. But joy doesn't wait for the calm; it thrives in chaos. Jesus, born in a stable, not a palace, shows us that joy can come in the most unexpected places. It's not situational; it's relational. Our joy flows from Jesus, who is Emmanuel—God with us.

Jesus' presence brings joy to every circumstance. He is the Savior, the Messiah, the Lord. His birth fulfilled over 300 prophecies, proving that God keeps His promises. This joy isn't fragile; it's complete and overflowing, anchored in a relationship with Him.

Practical Steps to Embrace Joy

1. Abide in Jesus: Joy grows as we remain in Him. Spend time in His Word and prayer, drawing near to Him daily.

2. Shift Your Focus: Instead of waiting for circumstances to change, focus on the presence of Jesus in your life. He is with you in every situation.

3. Celebrate the Savior: Remember that joy is a fruit of salvation. Reflect on the gift of Jesus and the joy He brings.

A Call to Experience True Joy

Are you longing for this kind of joy? It begins with knowing Jesus personally. If you haven't yet experienced the joy of salvation, turn to Him today. Trust in Jesus as your Savior, and let His presence fill your life with lasting joy.

For those who know Jesus but feel joy has dimmed, return to Him. Lay your burdens at His feet and ask Him to renew the joy of your salvation. Joy doesn't come from perfect circumstances but from a perfect Savior who is always near.

A Prayer for Joy

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Jesus, who brings joy to our lives. Help us to abide in Him and experience the fullness of joy that only He can provide. Renew our hearts and fill us with Your presence, so that we may overflow with joy in every circumstance. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Whether you're stuck in life's waiting room or navigating chaos, remember that true joy is found in the presence of Jesus. Embrace Him today and discover the joy that transforms every moment.