A PARABLE OF GOD’S MERCY

Tonight (Wednesday, 6/4, 7:00 pm), join your Calvary Chapel family at the Holy Grounds Cafe or online through our website (www.calvaryinv.com), Facebook, and YouTube (Calvary Inverness) as we continue our study through the Bible in the book of Hosea (1:1-3:5).

Hosea’s ministry was mainly directed towards the ten northern tribes of Israel. A contemporary of Isaiah, Micah, Amos, and Jonah, he was a bold and courageous prophet who emphasized the urgency for Israel to turn from their wicked ways and return to the living God.

Hosea’s prophetic ministry began with a difficult command from the Lord. When he first heard what God required, one might wonder if he thought he had understood correctly. The Scripture does not record any struggle Hosea may have faced, but that doesn’t mean it was easy for him to obey. Yet he did obey, setting an example for the people of God of what it means to be devoted to the One who gives life.

The message Hosea had for Israel remains relevant today. Our culture is spiraling downward toward a spiritual abyss. There may be a pretense of love for God, but one’s passion is measured not by words but by actions. Jesus said, “If you love Me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15).

He also said, “You are my friends if you do whatever I command” (John 15:14).

Sixty years later, John, who remembered those words spoken by Jesus—the words that were given the night He was betrayed—wrote, “For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome” (1 John 5:3).

Just as Israel ignored Hosea’s prophecy to their peril, it can be said of today. What is needed is a Jesus-loving, sin-hating, Spirit-filled church that will be like Hosea and speak the truth in love for the sake of God and lost people.

Let everyone who will listen know that there will be a day when each one will stand before a righteous God to give an account of their life. And that the only way for them to escape is to turn to the One who, in His mercy, will grant them everlasting life.

I look forward to our time together. Please pray for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the entire Calvary Chapel family.

In His Strong Love,

Pastor