Sermon Reflections from God at the Movies "If" | Alex Hardt | June 16, 2024
In our journey through life, we often find ourselves at a crossroads, pondering the profound questions of existence: Why am I here? What is my purpose? These questions are not just philosophical musings but are deeply rooted in our desire to find meaning and direction. The quest for purpose is universal, and it's a treasure hunt where the map to our destination is God's wisdom. Wisdom is more than knowledge; it's the application of God's truth in our lives. It's a treasure that surpasses all material wealth, offering us a life of peace, security, and fulfillment. Unlike the fleeting satisfaction that comes from earthly achievements, wisdom provides us with a guiding light through life's complexities. It's about seeing our lives from God's perspective and aligning our desires with His. Our lives are often marred by brokenness and pain, leaving us feeling lost and disconnected. However, through our faith in Jesus Christ, we can experience healing that transcends the physical realm. The story of Jesus healing the deaf and mute man in Mark 7 is a powerful testament to this truth. It's not just about the restoration of physical abilities but about finding a renewed sense of purpose and identity in Christ. Purpose is not a passive state; it requires action. It's about translating our beliefs into deeds that reflect God's love and grace. The movie "If" illustrates this beautifully, showing characters who find purpose in helping others. Similarly, we are called to serve and love, making God's compassion tangible in the world. Our actions can have a profound impact, as seen in the story of a young girl creating "bags of grace" for those in need, embodying the very essence of living out one's purpose. LIFE APPLICATION This week, challenge yourself to actively seek God's wisdom in your daily life. Reflect on how you can apply this wisdom to serve others and make a positive impact in your community. Ask yourself: How can I incorporate prayer and scripture into my daily routine to grow in wisdom? In what areas of my life do I need healing to fully embrace my God-given purpose? What tangible actions can I take this week to demonstrate God's love to those around me? Remember, your purpose is not defined by the world's standards but by your relationship with the Heavenly Father. Embrace the journey, knowing that each step guided by God's wisdom leads you closer to the treasure of a purposeful life. KEY TAKEAWAYS Wisdom Surpasses Wealth Wisdom is more precious than material riches because it guides us to live in alignment with God's will. By valuing wisdom above earthly treasures, we prioritize our spiritual growth and find true fulfillment in life. Healing Leads to Purpose The healing of the deaf and mute man illustrates that Christ's touch goes beyond physical restoration; it opens us to a deeper understanding of our purpose. Embracing Jesus' healing can lead us to a life of clarity and meaningful action. Action Reflects God's Love Living out our purpose is not passive; it requires action that reflects God's love to the world. By actively serving others and sharing the gospel, we fulfill our calling and make a tangible impact in the lives of those around us. Blessings, Pastor Alex MESSAGE LINK Click Here to View the Message on Youtube Our Sunday service is online and in-person at 11:00am. Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass ![]() This photo was taken outside of Bethlehem looking at the hills where the shepherds would have been with their flocks when they received the news of Jesus’ birth. Today it is filled with dwellings but you can still envision the open fields filled with sheep bedded down for the night protected by their shepherds. As Pastor Alex pointed out the fields were not far from the town of Bethlehem where Mary and Joseph were staying with baby Jesus lying in a manger. Seeing and hearing from the angels of God was a life changing experience for these humble, lowly people. God chose them specifically to be the first to hear and worship the new born Savior.
Just as with Zechariah and Mary, the angels told them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” Luke 2:10 Fear would be an immediate reaction to seeing a heavenly being. Their minds would have been racing- what have we done wrong, why us, what is this all about? The angels told them they had good news! This news was to be for all people not just the religious elite and wealthy, but all people from the kings to the common man, from Jews to Gentiles. This news would bring JOY! Does this appearance and news brought by the angels cause Joy in your life? What about Jesus evokes joy for you? Is it His saving you, His loving you, His holding you during hard times, or His eternal place He has for you in heaven? If your reaction is joy, why not share the joy with others? Pastor Alex calls this the difference that helps us live wisely and differently. The brushes with Jesus in our lives help us put aside our fears and move into action. The shepherds immediately moved into action after hearing the good news the angels brought. “When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” verse 15 They desired to see this Savior for themselves. How can you be like the angels and create a desire to see and hear from Jesus in the lives of others? Pastor Alex suggested that the desire to tell others comes from a changed life, an encounter with Jesus yourself. Through the power of the Holy Spirit that lives within each believer, we can show others Jesus by our words and actions. Once we meet Jesus, we are never the same. He transforms us and leads us to grow more and more like Him. The Shepherds came and found Jesus just as the angels had said. They bowed down and worshipped him. Scripture tells us what happened when they left in verses 17,18,20, “When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told”. They were forever changed as they were able to share their amazing story, they were able to speak boldly about the newly arrived Savior and they knew that God was faithful to His promise to provide a Savior. Each of those things that resulted from their encounter with the living God can be said of you as a believer. You have a story to tell of how you met Jesus and what He has done in your life. You can speak boldly about His grace, mercy, love and ability to save and forgive. You know that because of what God has done in your life and you have seen that He is faithful and keeps His promises. Who can you tell your story to? Who needs to hear of God’s love and forgiveness first hand from someone who has encountered Jesus? You can also speak of Christ’s love and transformation in your own life because you have experienced it yourself. Your story is your story and no one can say that it isn’t- it is personal! Why not be bold, like the shepherds, and speak out about your Savior? Look for God moments this season to speak of Him. I know it is trite but still so true, “Jesus is the reason for the Season’. Let others know of Jesus and His amazing love. Linda SERMON LINK This Christmas | The Shepherd's Perspective Click Here to View the Sermon Sermon series, "This Christmas" Today Alex teaches from Luke 2:8-20 If you are local, please join us for our weekly service. Our Sunday service is held at 11:00am. Come visit us at 5353 Concord Blvd, on the corner of Concord Blvd and Kirker Pass. |
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July 2024
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