The King Shall Come: He Is Bringing Perfect Joy

Hope Lutheran - Spearfish

The King Shall Come: He Is Bringing Perfect Joy

December 10, 2023 • Pastor Mark Schutz • Isaiah 61:1–3, Isaiah 61:10–11

The historic Christian Church gave Latin titles to each Sunday. They titled the Third Sunday in Advent “Gaudete,” which means “Rejoice!” As we reach the midway point of Advent, we remember that when the King shall come, he will bring us perfect and everlasting joy.

Joy is not the same thing as happiness. Happiness is an emotion. Joyfulness is a condition. Happiness comes from your circumstances. Joyfulness comes from your King entering into your heart and assuring you of his abiding love and your glorious future. Therefore, happiness is fleeting. Joyfulness is enduring.

The King Shall Come: Prepare to Meet Him

December 3, 2023 • Pastor Mark Schutz • 2 Peter 3:8–14

Scriptures teach that King Jesus is the Son of God in flesh and the only hope for salvation. Jesus himself claimed that he is the only way into the glorious kingdom of heaven. You do not approach meeting someone like that casually or carelessly. You prepare meticulously. What does that mean? What does a life of readiness—ready to meet such a King—look like? In one word: repentance. If we insist on hanging onto our sins, how can we receive the One who came for the very purpose of taking those sins away? Throughout history, God has raised up called servants—like John the Baptist—to preach a message of repentance. This repentance is central to our preparation for the Lord’s coming. Without repentance, the King’s coming only terrifies. But all those who believe and repent look forward to the coming of the King and the consummation of his everlasting kingdom.

He Is Coming to Save Us

November 26, 2023 • Pastor Mark Schutz • Mark 11:1–10

We aren't really used to living under a king in this country. But as Christians, we do live under a King. His name is Jesus. But he is unlike any other king. He came in humility... He came to save us... and that changes everything we thought we knew about living under a king.