After yesterday’s sermon, I do not want you to think that I do not care about what is going on in our country; I most certainly do. However, as individuals who have been baptized into the name of Jesus, we have hope far beyond the halls of our democracy. We cannot let our politics and our leaders become an idol. To do so is to forsake the message of the Gospel, hinder our witness for the kingdom, and promote a lifestyle contrary to the God-fashioned life.
On Saturday, I received the link below from a friend. Beth Immanuel is a Messanic Jewish community; their synagogue is located in Hudson, WI. The rabbi’s sermon for Saturday, January 9–based on the opening chapters of Exodus–was profound and important. In many ways, our messages are similar, but his is much more measured and methodical than the impassioned preaching you heard from me yesterday. If you are interested in how we navigate the highly-divided culture as followers of Jesus, please carve out 31 minutes to listen to this teaching. It convicts and comforts; it wounds and inspires. While there are no easy answers, nor the perfect Christian response, may we be diligent in prayer for those in authority and faithful in our service to the Gospel. When Christ comes again, may we be found worthy of the eternal life he brings.
Praying for our country, and for you, my dear members and friends of Holy Cross!
Pastor Culynn
To prepare for worship on Sunday
(January 17), you are invited to read:
Luke 4:14-30