There is a lot of emphasis on identity these days, and rightly so, for everything we do flows from our identity. But what if we are wrong about our identity, or fail to live up to the identity we have set for ourselves? The possibility of such identity failure leaves us with a tinge of fear. However, through his life, death and resurrection, Jesus gives us a new identity as new creation people. As we live the joy and security of our new identity, we are better able to reflect his love and grace into the world around us. (Based on Mark 14:53-72.)
God-breathed 11: Remembering Who We Are
March 19, 2023
God-breathed 17: The Rejected One Becomes the Cornerstone
April 30, 2023
We all need to make value choices. But how do we make those choices? By what gives us status, power or money? Jesus shows us that none of those valuations will secure our life forever. Instead, he invites us to make him, the rejected one, the chief cornerstone of our lives. In his eyes, we are living stones which he will build into a beautiful home that glorifies God. (Based on Luke 19:45-20:18 & 1 Peter 2:4-12.)
God-breathed 16: Believing in God's Grace
April 23, 2023
Far too often our actions indicate that we underestimate what God can do in our life & in the lives of others. So we use the resources and opportunities he gives us to try to keep ourselves safe. But that self-made security will be stripped away before God when we have to answer for what we did with what God gave us in this life. Jesus is offering us a better way to live. Through his interactions with others and the stories he told, Jesus shows us that God's grace can do far greater things in our life and in the lives of others. Therefore, we faithfully use whatever God gives us for growth in his Kingdom. (Based on Luke 19:1-27.)
God-breathed 15: Shameless Grace & Heavenly Joy
April 16, 2023
Sometimes the sins of others are so offensive to us that we consider them to be beyond any redemption. It would be unfair, we think, if they enjoyed life with God when we, who consider ourselves to be good people, deserve it far more than they do. But Jesus died and rose again for the sins of all people and the Kingdom of God is open to everyone who trusts in Jesus. God's grace is for those who don't deserve it and, when we realize that also includes us, we are moved to become more gracious and loving with others. (Based on Luke 15:11-32.)