Like most human beings, I am a creature of habit. I like regular routines and rhythms. I had to learn pretty quickly that in pastoral ministry: No week is ever the same, let alone each day. However, one routine that has stayed the same is my preaching schedule. On Mondays, I read the preaching passage. On Tuesdays, I read commentaries. On Wednesdays and Thursdays, things marinate and by Sunday morning, the message is ready for delivery! So, imagine how out-of-sorts I was last week when David Blackstad offered to preach. On Sunday morning, rather than standing behind the pulpit, I sat directly in front of it during the sermon.
At 8:00am, I was taking in the content–the Biblical history, the details of Peter’s vision, the gift of the Holy Spirit upon the Gentiles. I heard the good news of salvation and forgiveness preached to me, a fellow sinner among you. At 10:30am, I did not count the boards on the ceiling (to get the reference, check out our YouTube channel). Instead, I marveled at the great privilege of a sermon. Usually, I have the distinct privilege to relay the message of the Holy Spirit, delivering the promises of God through Jesus Christ to you. But also, what a privilege for you to sit and listen to what God wants to say to you through his Word. This weekly encounter with the Bible and the proclamation of forgiveness and freedom is quite unique. Nowhere else do you receive such news! Indeed, heaven does come to earth! So listen up! God has something to say to you. You can come and be a part of it Sundays, Wednesdays, and YouTube.
Humbled by the Word of Our Salvation,
Pastor Culynn
To prepare for worship on Sunday
(April 30), you are invited to read: Acts 13:1-3; 14:8-18