Here are 4 short scripture lessons to consider towards this Sunday’s gathering.
Isaiah 65:17
For I am about to create new heavens
and a new earth;
the former things shall not be remembered
or come to mind.
Many of us have had significant life hurdles come along. Despite those hurdles is it possible to imagine ourselves peering into a future with God present.
Matthew 11:28-30
‘Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.’
Imagine what Jesus’ face was like when He said these words. Imagine His body language of care. And imagine the faces of the people hearing these words. Can you hear Jesus saying them to you?
Mark 1:16-20
As Jesus passed along the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake—for they were fishermen. And Jesus said to them, ‘Follow me and I will make you fish for people.’ And immediately they left their nets and followed him. As he went a little farther, he saw James son of Zebedee and his brother John, who were in their boat mending the nets. Immediately he called them; and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men, and followed him.
One of the surprises in this scripture is how quickly the disciples followed Jesus. Mark uses the word ‘immediately.’ Can you think of at least one reason why things happened so quickly?
Philippians 2:12-13
Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed me, not only in my presence, but much more now in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who is at work in you, enabling you both to will and to work for his good pleasure.
It is quite possible that the words fear and trembling might cause us to tense up. Replace the words fear and trembling with the word ‘awe’ as you complete the sentence. Does that change anything?
