The invitation this week in worship is to adjust our vision. We are called to see God in the world in which we live. We are called to identify the things that are God’s, including ourselves and the people around us. Even the surprising ones.
The theme this week might seem harsh. It might also lead us to point fingers at those out there or over there who are stiff-necked. Rarely will we realize that we are the ones in need of a neck massage. Perhaps worship this week begins with confession.
As we celebrate Thanksgiving, we take time to remember the material blessing of God’s providence through the bountiful harvest of the land. Psalm 103 encourages us to also praise God for his many other benefits.
God’s enduring presence surpasses all human limitations, and His boundless wisdom far exceeds our understanding.
God provides. It seems clear that this is one of the messages from our texts this week. But it would also be clear that God provides for our needs in unusual and sometimes confusing ways.
We can be honest with ourselves and with God as we realize that we too often have asked that same question, “How many times must I forgive?”
As we journey in faith, do we seek signs of God or become signs of God? The answer is both! We strive to tune into God’s presence and recognize signs of His work in our lives. In worship and fellowship, we celebrate these signs and encourage sharing.
Who are we to shoulder the burdens of the world? Especially when we get it wrong more often than right, it seems. We remember that we are just beginning, again or for the first time. We recommit ourselves to the call to become disciples.
Out of nowhere, it seemed, as they travelled along, Jesus asked his disciples a question of identity. “Who do you say that I am?” It’s a question we must repeatedly answer as we seek to become disciples of Jesus Christ.
On the path of a disciple, we are learning to grow in our relationships with Christ and with the community. It begins when we take the yoke.