Sermon Summaries

Three Sermon Summaries in ONE WEEK!!?? What!!?? I know, right!!?? Highly unusual behavior from me. LOL IDK, I just feel really productive this week. Between this and making special (nearly matching) Valentine's gifts for myself and Mike, I'm getting a lot done. It's good. I chose to do this message next because I need to watch the missed CenterPoint message online so I can notate it before blogging. I also like to share each message in the order that I received them. :) No word from Andrea today, as yet. She said yesterday morning that she might have me over today or tomorrow; we'll just have to see. Meanwhile, when I was almost home from my walk earlier, Mike called me on video chat, unexpectedly. Recently, he decided that one chat in the morning and another at night would generally suffice, unless more were necessary. Anyway, he wanted to tell me that his upcoming Colonoscopy had been canceled by the anesthesiologist. He'd been getting a lot of calls in preparation, and that was hard enough on a man who dislikes the phone as much as he does. (thus the recent limit on ours) Now he has to make NEW arrangements with his doctor and other, more distant facilities. The most likely for this will be Dartmouth. He goes there for pulmonary checks a couple of times a year, I think. Or he had been, anyway. He actually didn't this past year, as far as I can remember. They put him on a CPAP machine a few years ago, but he hasn't done it for about 4 months now. It's supposed to be helping with his COPD, but it really hasn't done anything, at least as far as he can tell. I'm guessing this is why the procedure was canceled. Pray that something can be arranged soon. And just to be clear, it's not that he's had any specific issues. It's just that he turned 50 last May and it's good maintenance. (Especially for someone who's 380 lbs. of love) <3 And so, onward -- Instead of my usual "Message Intro" of giving a personal example of the Sermon to follow; I'm going to preface this one. Pastor Scott, as I have come to discover, has a unique perspective on certain Biblical passages. It's something I truly appreciate about him; and this message is but one example. I can pretty much guarantee that you've never looked at the story of the Widow's Mite from this viewpoint before. I personally found it both refreshing and encouraging; particularly as someone who has never been financially wealthy, and may never be.* For starters, here's the Meditative Quote from the November 10th bulletin. It is not what I do that matters, but what a sovereign God chooses to do through me. God does not want worldly success, He wants me. He wants my heart in submission to Him. Life is not just a few years to spend on self-indulgence and career advancement. It is a privilege, a responsibility, a stewardship to be lived according to a much higher calling, God's calling. This alone gives true meaning to life. - Elizabeth Dole The Children's Message, presented by Laura Slate, involved a story about how there was a woman who hated birds. At least in the general sense, she did. She found them creepy and dirty, based on their beady eyes and frequent messes on her car. But regardless, she put out a birdfeeder. She eventually discovered that the wrens that visited daily seemed genuinely interested in her and her activities in the house. It was like they wanted to come in and keep her company. She grew to love them; although this didn't increase her love for other types of birds. It did, however, bring a newfound appreciation and respect for them as she realized that each had its unique purpose in the greater scheme of Nature. The lesson in this was that we should respect all of God's Creation equally, even if there are creatures (or people) we may not have the same liking for. We need to understand and appreciate that, like the other birds from the story, God has a purpose for each one. It occurs to me here that I may have messed up on my previous Brattleboro post. I mentioned Mike's and my invitation to lunch with his friend, Kevin, and how the Children's message had spoken to me ahead of it. I realize now that this all happened on THIS Sunday afternoon, not the previously blogged date. My apologies. The Scripture Reading, as indicated above, was from Mark 12:38-44. The story of the Widow's Mite. Mark 12:38-44 New International Version Warning Against the Teachers of the Law 38 As he taught, Jesus said, “Watch out for the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, 39 and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. 40 They devour widows’ houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will be punished most severely.” The Widow’s Offering 41 Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. 42 But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. 43 Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. 44 They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.” --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- In starting his message, Pastor Scott compared the Temple in Jerusalem with Centre Church. Both are considered important in their respective locales. As he put it, while the Temple in Jerusalem was a wonder of the World in it's day, CCB is a wonder of Brattleboro.* He then pointed out that the Temple was undergoing an 80+ yr. renovation, part of which happened during Jesus' lifetime.* As the image below shows, the Temple grounds covered 37 acres (about 6 football fields), and the structure, at its tallest, stood 150 ft. tall. (I wanted to see how big the lot is for CCB, but a brief search came up empty on this question) Our story takes place in the Court of Women, also known as the Treasury room. It had 13 collection boxes placed around it; each for specific needs of the Temple. At CCB, there is a regular practice of giving a portion of the Offering money to local Charities on the 2nd Sunday of each month.* Pastor Scott prefaced the story itself by sharing the idea that Jesus was a Sociologist, to a large degree. He observed, analyzed, and then spoke based on His conclusions. In our passage above, we find Jesus doing this same thing. While He sat and observed, He heard the louder clatter of the rich, pouring in an abundance of coins. But eventually, in stark contrast to this, He heard the mere "plink-plink" of the Widow's Mites. In preparing his message, Pastor Scott chose to "critique" this passage and look at it from a different aspect. He started by asking the question, "Why was she giving 100% of her income??" This is the undercurrent of the narrative here. This brought him to realize that God would NEVER want us to be broke and unable to cover our bills or buy food. He noted as well, that Jesus didn't end His monologue by saying, "Go and do likewise." Pastor Scott pointed out that, as Jesus came to fulfill the Laws of Israel (Book of Deuteronomy)*, the rich should cover for the poor. (I agree)* Next, he brought up the idea that the poor are should not be held responsible to tithe. 100% (the Widow's Mite) vs 3% of whatever the Rich earn is simply unjust. And that is Jesus true message here. Justice and equality, NOT mandatory Tithing/Giving. (Different perspective, like I said) This is supported by the context of the Religious Leaders mentioned ahead of the story in our passage above. It's not about her generosity, as most people see it. Jesus admonition here was to abolish the cheating habits of the Treasurers as they made up their own rules about the amounts expected of each person, depending on their Social Status, or other factors. The fact is, as Pastor Scott reminded us, is that we are Christians first, citizens of the US second. Our allegiance to God should come before our affiliation or association with any political party. We should pay an equal % for taxes, across the board. In our Scripture above, Jesus is not praising the woman for giving all she had; but rather accusing her for giving after having been cheated by the Religious Leaders with their "random" rules. The truth is, we're called to give according to our situation. (See Prov. 3:27 and 2 Cor. 9:7)* Pastor Scott's closing thought was to have us imagine together that God praises all in giving equal measure. (Not equal amount) -- God Bless!! Footnotes: 1. I grew up poor, and money was always a struggle during my nearly 19 yrs of marriage, as well. Since moving out in November of 2012, I've been on SSDI most of the time. As to whether or not the "something big" that this blog is meant to be in my life for God includes financial gain, that has yet to be determined. (See my "About" statement or one of those for details) That being said, I realize that I don't yet have a Sales Portal on here; but that's because I don't feel ready for that level of responsibility. Especially not now, until Mike and I can get a place of our own and more of my time is spent in one location.) 2. Pastor Scott's suggestion that CCB is to Brattleboro what the Temple was to Jerusalem is no exaggeration. Not only was it so important to the community that the original structure was moved down the hill from the Park Area at the top of Main Street where it becomes Putney Road, to the more central Main St. location it now occupies; but it has been expanded, over time, to include Sunday School rooms, a parlor, a Chapel, a Music Room, offices, restrooms, and a kitchen. During the week, the classrooms serve as a place for children from low-income homes to gather. (It's a Day Care, and it's impact is felt throughout the area.) Another major part of CCB is the bi-weekly service of Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry. This is given out of a space in the basement, leading outside. People in need can just walk up to the side of the building and request the day's meal, along with other items such as dog/cat food, diapers, etc... Once again, an important presence in Brattleboro. 3. This renovation of the Temple as it was rebuilt in the days of Ezra and Nehemiah in 515 B.C., was added to in a building project that started around 22 B.C.. It was still in progress at the time of it's destruction in 70 A.D. 4. The "2nd Sunday Offering", as they call it, is funds earmarked by the givers for the purpose of that month's gift. This is above and beyond the regular amounts given directly for the Church, but all are collected in a single passing of the plates. 5. So, a couple of things about the Laws of Israel here. One, the fact that Jesus fulfilled them meant that they were no longer going to be valid after His death and resurrection. As the Old Covenant came to fruition, the New Covenant began. Two, the reference here to the entire Book of Deuteronomy is due to the fact that this is where we can read in detail about the Jewish Welfare System in that time. (Spoiler alert, it was the best of any nation on Earth!!) I don't like "spoilers" myself, but I just thought it was a fun way to inform you all of a proven fact on the subject) :D 6. Once again, I hate to "wax political" on here; but as the saying goes, "Sometimes it just be that way." ;) Although I generally don't pay a ton of attention to politics these days, I really thought that Ross Perot had the right idea years ago when he suggested a 5% Flat Tax. It would be far less of a burden on the Poor; and the balance would be more than filled out by the Rich. Also, the fact is, before the Great Depression and FDRs "New Deal", people in need were covered by friends, family members, and Church Communities in their own areas. Personally, I wouldn't be sad to see it that way again. (Although I realize that would mean far less money to spend on "wants" as opposed to "necessities"; but I've been there before, I could manage again. 7. The Proverbs and 2 Corinthians references are all mine. Music -- No rights, ever!! First hymn -- Son of God, Eternal Savior - Hymn Sing-Along with Lyrics,https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NU2F5Cjm1FE Anthem -- We, Thy People, Praise Thee,https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=phsrVHypxZk Second hymn -- Hymn, What Gift Can We Bring, UMH 87, Wesley Choir (CCLI License 2293792),https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Gs-nIo6vb8 Offertory -- Dona Nobis Pacem, traditional canon,https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OSdGW_HBrLE Closing hymn -- I don't think this is exactly the same, but it's what I could find right off -- Jim Reeves - We Thank Thee (with lyrics)(HD),https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CkGieTtT2as As always, we sing after the Scripture Reading and at the end of the Service as well. The choruses are: "In the Lord I'll be ever thankful" and "Lord, prepare me to be a sanctuary". Each is sung through 2x.

Nearly 3:30 on this super-windy Tuesday afternoon. The only news I have is that I found and purchased a new water bottle after having my old one go missing on my way back from Andrea's the other week. It's translucent blue plastic (so light weight), holds 32 oz., easy working cover, and it was on clearance!! Ladies and gentlemen, we have a WINNER!!* I may be at Andrea's either tomorrow or Thursday for my usual 2-3 hrs., but it depends on whether Matt gets sent home this afternoon or if Andrea wins her appeal to keep him in Rehab longer. Continued prayers for them. How many of you have played that "fun" little game of "Leave the Grocery List on the Counter"?? I've done that before, more than once!! Come to think of it, I just played it the other week at Mike's. LOL Usually, I don't need a list unless it's a Holiday meal. (or a new recipe, rarely) While some view Christianity, and therefore the Beatitudes, as a "checklist" of things we should either do or avoid doing; that's not what Jesus invites us into. He invites us into a relationship with Him that is so close and intimate that we simply want to do all we can to please Him; much like a good marriage. Let's turn our Bibles to Matthew 5 and review these blessings again, shall we?? Matthew 5:1-12 New International Version Introduction to the Sermon on the Mount 5 Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, 2 and he began to teach them. The Beatitudes He said: 3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit,    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.4 Blessed are those who mourn,    for they will be comforted.5 Blessed are the meek,    for they will inherit the earth.6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,    for they will be filled.7 Blessed are the merciful,    for they will be shown mercy.8 Blessed are the pure in heart,    for they will see God.9 Blessed are the peacemakers,    for they will be called children of God.10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- In my Message Intro, I sort of "stole" Pastor Matt's opener, but only part of it. After saying the bit about how some treat the Beatitudes as a "checklist", he went on to say that Jesus' intention was to show that those on the outskirts are already positioned for blessing. This reveals what the Kingdom of God looks like. In that moment, He was inviting those who were present into that realm of experience with Him. Society tells us to grasp for what we want. They encourage us to "keep score" (or "keep up with the Jones', if you will)*. They suggest avoiding the circumstance where we end up making a bad situation even worse for ourselves. They don't think we should get involved in the problems of others. They want us to think, "That's THEIR problem; not mine." The thought occurs to me here that Society doesn't support people "sticking our necks out" on behalf of others. It would rather we keep to ourselves instead of standing up for/with our neighbors. They think, "Why add more trouble and stress to my life?? This situation doesn't affect me, why should I care so much??" The point they're missing here is that, ultimately, it IS our problem. The fact is that, if we DON'T stand up now, there may be a time when it's too late. The late Edmund Burke is quoted as having said, "All that's needed for Evil to prevail is for Good men to do nothing." Freedoms like expression and religion are too important to go unattended. If one group loses those, we're ALL in danger of losing them.* God suggests we do better. Along with the idea of how Society encourages us to grasp and compare, Pastor Matt commented, "Fool me once..." indicating that the World lies to us with its false promises of "success" or "influence". In Numbers 23:19 we read, "God is not a man that He should lie..." Psalm 118:8, the very middle verse of the Bible says, "Better to rely on God than on man.". Let's dig into our verse and see what treasure God has for us this afternoon -- Our focus today is on verse 7. "Blessed are the merciful; for they will be shown mercy." First, we look at the word "mercy". What does it mean?? If you recall our overview message at the beginning of this series, you will remember that the 2 Hebrew words for "blessing" are "hesed", which is the thing being offered in return for goodness, and "ashre", which is the state of having been blessed by another. Mercy fits under the first definition here. It is part of the character of God. It encompasses His steadfast love, His kindness, and His patience. We see this throughout the Old Testament in the cycle of Israel's rejection and return to God. He remains faithful to them regardless of their betrayal. Another aspect of mercy is compassion. Mercy is, at its core, compassion that moves towards those who lack what they need. We see this embodied and exemplified in Jesus. His acts of healing, freedom, restoration, and wholeness prove this out time and again throughout the Gospels. One example of this is found in John, chapter 5. The Lame Man has been sitting on his mat near the Sheep Gate. Due to his infirmity, Jewish Law demands that he not enter the Temple. He is there when Jesus is walking by. The man calls out, "Son of David, have mercy on me..." He was aching with desire to connect with God, displayed belief in Who Jesus was, and Jesus healed him.* As you may well imagine, forgiveness is a key factor of mercy as well. Skipping over to Matt. 6:9-13, we find Jesus includes it in the Lord's Prayer. An insight I've been sharing on Quora in recent months is that, when we forgive others, we then feel more deserving of God's forgiveness. It's less about what the other person did than it is about clearing our hearts of the offense; realizing that we're none of us perfect. If we would expect mercy from others, it's only right we extend it to them. Mercy is a key to the Kingdom, as we cannot fully achieve forgiveness without God.* In James 2:12-13, we see that he encourages mercy as opposed to judgement because mercy represents God's law of Freedom. The truth is, the more we buy into "Religion", the more judgmental we become. I've heard it said as well that, Legalism reveals insecurity. I concur. Looking back in Matthew, in chapter 18, verses 21-35, we find that Peter is showing a Legalistic attitude towards forgiveness. Here is the passage where Peter asks, "How many times should I forgive my brother?? Seven times??, and Jesus replies, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven." Jesus then proceeds to share the Parable of the Unmerciful Servant. In doing this, Jesus isn't out to "one up" Peter; but to show that forgiveness should not be a one-time thing. Rather, it should be something that rolls out, not only to the person who harmed/offended us; but continues to others.* (I think he also meant that we should never rescind our forgiveness to the original person, but that wasn't as clear. At least to me.) At the same time, Jesus' words in this story are not meant to shame anyone. He was simply expressing the weightiness of forgiveness that draws us into His love. If we are unmerciful/unforgiving, then we are showing that we are unfamiliar with those virtues from God. Finally, Pastor Matt closed his message by sharing a recent example of someone in our Church who showed compassion to a first-time visitor. In fact, it was the first time this young woman had ever even STEPPED INTO a Church!! But a member of our Church sensed the Holy Spirit leading her to reach out and welcome this woman, and gave her a hug. He ended by reminding us that sometimes we are the ones who need mercy.* -- God Bless!! Footnotes: 1. One, the label actually said "lilac". Two, I am ALWAYS on the lookout for "the PERFECT" water bottle. This may be it!! :D 2. The "keeping up with the Jones'" part is mine. Also, as is usual with this topic, the song "Grand Illusion", by Styx surfaces in my mind. 3. I know, I know, politics are generally avoided on here, but this was just too important NOT to say; especially seeing how well it fits with what Pastor Matt was saying. (Of course, it doesn't hurt that I found a booklet of the US Constitution in a nearby Library Box the other day. The same one, in fact, where I've been finding that BS put out by a couple of different Southern Baptist organizations) 4. Two things about Jesus healing the Lame Man - One, notice the significance of Jesus entering by the "Sheep Gate", now called the "Lion" gate. Coincidence?? I think not. Two, the fact that the man was not allowed into the Temple under Judaic Law, due to his infirmity, and that Jesus healed him, proves that Jesus' Sacrifice was meant to fulfill the Old Laws and start over with the New Covenant. (Sorry, it's just that I've been discussing this on Quora lately, so it's sort of in the forefront of my mind rn) 5. Another thing about forgiveness is the fact that, through Jesus' Sacrifice, the forgiveness already exists. When we pray for it, we are really just accepting it. I know there are verses that talk about how God won't forgive us if we don't forgive others; but this is really what it means. This is supported by numerous places in Scripture that speak to the point that Jesus came/died to take away the sins of the World. These include, but are far from limited to - Isaiah 53:1-12 and John 1:12. 6. I just had another thought in relation to the idea of forgiveness "rolling out", as well. As I mentioned above, forgiving others helps us to feel more deserving of God's forgiveness. I think this feeling also counts for us when others forgive us. When others forgive us, we may tend to be quicker to extend forgiveness to the next person. (I'm realizing now that this is just expounding on Pastor Matt's thought, but I hadn't gotten around to processing it to this degree until this moment.) 7. Pastor Matt's closing thought reminded me of an internet post I first encountered a few years ago. It really struck me. I'll see if I can find it and include it below. Music -- Never any rights, I promise!! Phil Wickham - Reason I Sing (Acoustic Sessions) [Official Lyric Video],https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v8IBuzdUCok Katy Nichole - "In Jesus Name (God of Possible)" (Official Music Video),https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ihrUIPfvTh8 Royal & the Serpent - Overwhelmed (Lyrics),https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SwT2OoJr_p8 YOU ARE GLORIOUS | Lyrics | Charity Gayle,https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EICcFjQ_zBQ Of course, Ephesians 4:32 also applies here.

Just after 2:30 on a decent Sunday afternoon. There are flurries outside; but nothing critical. I had a single slice of frozen pizza for lunch, then went on my daily walk. Today was more of a straight shot through the nearby State Office/former State Hospital Campus nearby than I usually do, but it was enough to get me outside for a while, and that's what matters most. I would have gotten this post done and been on to the next by now, but Mike showed up Wednesday afternoon and stayed through Friday morning. That's okay, because not only have I come to embrace his "randomness" to some degree; but I also ended up opening my 3 DVD set of Fantastic Beasts movies and watching them, so yay!!* Not only that, but as I've said before, I have come to understand and appreciate that everything happens as it needs to. So what's an extra few days when I'm still 3 months behind on here anyway, right?? LOL No other news at the moment as I wasn't with Andrea last week, nor did I hear from my parents or my son, Benjamin, so as they say, "no news is good news"... And now that I've taken care of my banana peel, we can move on... :) As I was considering what to write about in this space, I wasn't sure I could really come up with anything. I've never traveled outside the United States except for crossing from Pittsburg, NH to Chartierville, Quebec, Canada as a young child. Literally all I remember about it was a long hill and a small "Mom and Pop" store at the bottom on the left-hand side. I don't remember what my parents bought for a snack or anything. But when you factor in the fact that I was 5 yrs old, I think that's pretty normal. Anyway, I realized that my experience from heading to Charlotte, NC with a friend back in 1988 could be relatable here. There was a special event weekend we were attending, and we crossed through Fancy Gap in Virginia around 7 a.m.*. I only WISH I knew where the pictures went, the sunrise was AMAZING!! Of course, shortly after getting into North Carolina, we were seeking out breakfast. Now, usually, when you see a full parking lot, you can be sure of a great meal, right?? Maybe we encountered an exception to the rule, IDK, but we both found "issues" with our orders. (or at least I know I did) My pancakes were grainy and my milk was clearly not sourced from New Hampshire cows. Different water, I get it, but still... yikes!! Regardless, you would accurately guess that I was still both hungry and thirsty after that experience. I wanted something more familiar than what I had received. Not that the diner in question served "bad" food; it was just not what I had expected. At the start of his message, Pastor Matt shared a story with a similar concept. Earlier in the ministry, they had traveled to London. During their time "across the pond", they did the respectful thing and ate as the British do. However, as we all do eventually, they became overwhelmed with the "foreign" and wanted a taste of home. Specifically, a great burger. This led them on a search of the area which finally took them to a TGIFriday's. Like I had back in 1988 in North Carolina, they desired what was most familiar. Most comfortable. As we will see in today's message, what's most "familiar" or "comfortable" isn't always God's best. Turn with me to Matthew 5 as we review our key passage for this series -- Matthew 5:1-12 New International Version Introduction to the Sermon on the Mount 5 Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, 2 and he began to teach them. The Beatitudes He said: 3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit,    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.4 Blessed are those who mourn,    for they will be comforted.5 Blessed are the meek,    for they will inherit the earth.6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,    for they will be filled.7 Blessed are the merciful,    for they will be shown mercy.8 Blessed are the pure in heart,    for they will see God.9 Blessed are the peacemakers,    for they will be called children of God.10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- As you can see, verse 6 is our focus this afternoon. In addressing the crowds around Him that day, Jesus not only saw the most needy among them; but spoke directly into their lives before starting into the main portion of His Sermon. In this moment, he was speaking specifically to those who hungered and thirsted after righteousness. He promised that, if they continued seeking it in Him, they would be filled.* These were some of the people who would be most receptive to His message because they are the ones who recognized and admitted to their faults, and in doing so, were actively seeking to improve themselves. Jesus was there to help. While we may have expected a great Teacher like Jesus to be "elitist" and only speak to the "religious people" who had things in line; His deepest concern was for the lowly, the humble, the marginalized*. Pastor Matt brought out the "spotlight" here, on the word "righteousness". After all, if Jesus attached a blessing to seeking it, then it only makes sense to define it, wouldn't you agree?? It's not about comparing our behaviors to ourselves or to others, rather, it can be identified by 3 key elements -- Righteousness is -- • Relational -- In Mark 12:28-31, Jesus is answering the Pharisees question of, "What is the greatest commandment?" He replies, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength; and love your neighbor as yourself. On these hang all the Law and the prophets." LOVE is key. When we remove this, we miss the point.* • Doing right by God - trusting in Him in all things. John 14:15, says, "If you love me, obey my commands..." Obedience is about love, not Legalism. • Doing right by others - Psalm 11:7 reads, "The Lord is righteous; He loves justice; the upright will see His face." The fact is, justice produces righteousness. Since we are made in His image, we need to behave as He does. As an example, Pastor Matt used idea of how a flag is more than cloth and stitching. A flag represents certain people and ideals. Just as marring/desecration of a flag damages it and harms the image of it in the minds of others, our wrong behaviors damage God's image in the minds of unbelievers. (and fellow Believers, at times)* Pastor Matt quoted from the Chris Seay book, "Gospel According to Jesus"* - I don't remember exactly what it was, only that it was from page 12, so here's 12-13 to cover the bases -- or not... I copied the pages off the PDF preview, but I have no idea where they went from there... but in my initial search, I discovered a used copy on eBay for only $4.44, I might go back in later and order it. (I have the one by Stephen Mitchell) Regardless of my technical difficulties, the point is that God is actively working toward restoration. Seekers of righteousness are looking to partner with God's Mission. When we see/experience fracture between ourselves and God, we're going to find/create it between each other. Abraham was counted righteous by God by trusting and obeying Him. (See Genesis 12 and 15) As we read further, we find that, like us, Abraham sometimes messed up. He was, as Pastor Matt phrased it, "a mixed bag". The overwhelming truth is that God is generous with His grace and righteousness. Looking at Romans 3:20-23, we see that no one can be righteous strictly by following the Law, but the Law brings an awareness of sin. The righteousness of God is made known in Jesus to all who believe. All of us come short of the glory of God; but in Christ, God's restorative justice is made available. Hebrews 11:8-16 reiterates the fact that, although Abraham was counted righteous due to obedience, longing for a better country, even he only got the slightest taste of the Promise God had given him. Some of us turn back to what's familiar; others, like Abraham, will allow our longing to propel them forward. We read of our reward in Revelation 20-22. As you mediate on these truths, grab a cracker and some juice, or what have you, and Commune with God. -- God Bless!! Footnotes: 1. I originally bought the Fantastic Beasts movies back in July, after Mike got his first Disability check. 2. Fancy Gap is absolutely beautiful!! It's located on Interstate 77 a few minutes from the state line. 3. Pastor Matt didn't say this about the Beatitudes, but the key to any one of them lies in Him. As the embodiment of God on Earth, the true nature of each virtue listed here can only be found in Jesus. 4. When you really think about it, Jesus wouldn't have wasted His time on the "religious people". He understood that people like that don't see a need for improvement, and would therefore be unreceptive to His message. He didn't exclude them, however, instead we find Him consistently berating them for their attitudes or covertly addressing them in parables like the Prodigal Son. (Read Henri Nouwen's book!!) 5. In reference to the bit about removing love and missing the point, I was reminded of 2 things. One, when my kids were little, I was in and out of Parenting Classes for several years. Something we learned there was that obedience with a negative attitude really isn't as good as willing obedience. The 2nd thing was how this is covered by God in Deuteronomy 26. He gives Moses an extensive list of blessings and curses depending on the willingness and obedience of the Israelites. 6. My image of God has not been marred by fellow Believers for a couple of reasons. The first is probably due to the fact that I grew up in a number of different churches, so while my image of certain people was marred at times, I was never so attached to them as to allow their behaviors to detract from my perspectives on God. And really, I guess that's the gist of it. I know how to separate the sinner from the sin and the person from God. (I also do it with celebrities as needed) At the same time, I am aware that others have, sadly, allowed the mistakes of men to pull them away from God. There's an internet post that relates to this. I'll see if I can find it and include it below. 7. In searching for images to go with this post, I found this Hebrew word study on the term "hunger". It really adds depth to Pastor Matt's message above. It's brief, but interesting -- https://www.chaimbentorah.com/2018/12/hebrew-word-study-to-hunger/ Music -- Never any rights, I promise -- Phil Wickham - I Believe (with lyrics)(2023),https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-SKtnlKNGgM Maverick City Music - I Thank God (LYRICS),https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5bOgOBFy9sE GRAVES INTO GARDENS - ELEVATION WORSHIP LYRIC VIDEO,https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YihKbG8-X3U Phil Wickham - Where I'm Standing Now (Acoustic Sessions) [Official Lyric Video],https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHTdy5Nl71I