Sisters and brothers,
Happy Monday to all! As we met yesterday, we sought to look with the eyes of faith and behold our great God. Then from Mark 15, we looked at Pilate’s decision to condemn and crucify Jesus. Pilate did not do what was right because he was protecting his position of power and because of his fear of public opinion. However, God worked even through Pilate’s human weaknesses to bring about His redemptive purposes. We learned that we all face decisions every day and some of them are life-altering decisions. As believers, we need to seek to know God, His ways, and by the power of the Holy Spirit, do right and leave the consequences to God. However, we live in a world where people make bad and evil decision all the time. When people constantly choose evil, we often can become very discouraged. In those times we need to remember this: God is sovereign, and He is in control. God uses the animosity of sinful and hate-filled people to achieve His redemptive purposes. God uses skepticism, doubt, and curiosity of sinful people for His purposes. God uses the sinful weaknesses of people for His redemptive purposes. Do not be like Pilate and want so much for your decisions to be affirmed that you chose what is popular instead of what is right. However, never forget this eternal truth: God brings about His redemptive purposes in the world even through weak and cowardly people.No matter how weak we are, no matter what power evil people seem to possess right now, and no matter how grave the circumstances seem to be, Jesus is Lord and He reigns over the universe. Evil will ultimately be destroyed! I hope the link to the Keith and Kristin Getty song will remind you of this: Jesus Shall Reign (Official Lyric Video) – Keith & Kristyn Getty (youtube.com).
Next Sunday afternoon, February 11, at 4:00 PM, we will gather for a game night and spend some time together. Bring some food, snacks, and your favorite games to share and let us enjoy some time together.
We need more volunteers to house 14 students from Emmaus Bible College choir if we are going to host them. We are looking at March 8, 11, or 12 to have the choir sing here and host these students. Contact me today or tomorrow, at the latest, if you know you can help. Thanks to those who have told me already how they can help.
Remember to keep praying continually for each other. None of us know fully the burdens our brothers and sisters in Christ might be carrying.
Love being your pastor!
Bob Ray, Pastor, East Madison Baptist Church