Forecast of Snow

Yesterday’s sermon was a challenge for me. First of all, Jesus’ words are challenging. He is teaching us that not only our actions need to be watched, but also our heart that needs to be tended to. Secondly, the time we live in is hyper-sexualized and where Biblical standards have often been jettisoned. Thirdly, these teaching—especially those on divorce—have sometimes been misused to encourage people to stay in unhealthy and sometimes dangerous relationships. Even taking all of that into consideration, I believe it is important for us to deal with the hard passages. Christianity often calls us to do what’s difficult.

The closer we get to tomorrow, the more it seems we could be in for a walloping with this winter storm. As I always say though, this time of year it’s so hard to predict the amount of snow because if the track of the storm moves just a little bit one way or the other it can make all of the difference. As of right now, they are predicting quite a bit. So, I’ll say—be very careful. Make sure you have the supplies in that you need. Check on your neighbors. If you need help, make sure to ask! There are people out there who are more than willing to help. Watch our Facebook page and listen to the radio about cancelling events or services. We’ll try to give you plenty of advanced notice if something is going to be cancelled.

I’ll leave you with these verses that are a part of next week’s Scripture. Jesus said, “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,” (Matthew 5:43-44, NIV). Perhaps this is also a hard saying, but in a different way. As I’ve said, Jesus is showing us there’s a different way for us to live—a different way for us to interact with other people.

Love you all and praying for you.

God bless,

Brian

Scripture readings for next Sunday Matthew 5:38-48—How would you describe what Jesus is teaching in this passage?

Deuteronomy 19:15-21—What do you think is the intent of this law?

Luke 10:25-37—How does this story teach us about loving our enemies?

1 John 4:7-12—What does this passage encourage about the way that we love?