Message
Top 10: Matthew 5-7: Everything you need to know and more in a 30-minute Jesus sermon
Crestview beloved faith family, this coming Sunday we will conclude the summer series of texts that shape and form us. It’s been a good journey through Ps 1, 19, 63, and 139, Genesis 1-2, Jeremiah 9:24-27, Ezekiel 47:1-12, Colossians 1:15-20, Philippians 3:17-21, Ephesians 1:15-19a… and for this Sunday??? Matthew 5-7 The Sermon on the Mount!
For a couple more weeks, we will be in remodel mode in the sanctuary, but do not fear, God will bring it to completion, and what’s more, it’s a good metaphor for our walk with God. God is in the continual process of remodeling our lives… so lean into it. I’ve been reminded the past two weeks of a song that gained some traction a few years ago, The Heart of Worship. “When the music fades and all is stripped away, and I simply come… you’re looking at my heart… the heart of worship… it’s all about you.” In worship, a simple posture of open hands, nothing to bring but the heart is all God requires… Looking forward to Sunday.
As we hear Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount this Sunday, he is already preparing our hearts through his already opening words at the beginning of his official ministry, “Repent! For the Kingdom of God is near… Come! Follow me.” As the huge crowds are attracted to Jesus, he teaches them his Way, God’s Way, invites us to follow him. When he sees the crowds, Jesus has compassion on them, because they were ‘harassed and helpless… like sheep without a shepherd.” So Jesus reaches out to all people, invites them into his Kingdom, his Spirit rule, an abundant and eternal life filled with purpose and meaning, “Repent! The Kingdom of God is near… Come… believe in me… receive me… follow me.”
Can’t wait for Sunday, longing to gather around Jesus, to learn from his yoke, lean into following our Master and Lord,
Pastor Mark