Saturday, November 19
Good morning everyone,
The Journal/Sentinel reported this morning that the latest economic data is pointing to better days ahead. However, in the next sentence the reporter cautioned that it may not actually turn out that way. The doctor assures you that the prescribed medication will take care of the health issue and you’ll feel better in no time, but a week later you’re just as miserable as before. We learn from experience that the promise of “better days ahead” is not always fulfilled. In fact, disappoint, hurts, and overly optimistic predictions lead many to conclude that things are bound to get worse, not better. Where do you stand? How’s your outlook? What’s realistic?
The Lord doesn’t sugarcoat the world’s situation. He tells us that sin has irreparably ruined His creation. It has brought suffering and death into the world, and has separated mankind from his Creator. All have sinned. All are condemned under God’s law. No matter how vocally people deny it, or try to overcome it by their own efforts at reform, it remains the reality.
But at the same time the Lord gives us reason for the greatest optimism now and especially for the future. When we were dead in sin, He sent His Son to be our righteousness, and to take our sin and punishment out of the picture by taking it all upon Himself on the cross. “The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin” (1 Jn. 1:7). “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Rom. 8:1). And what does our Savior tell us about the future? “In my Father’s house are many mansions….I go to prepare a place for you….I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also” (Jn. 14:2-3).
The best is yet to come, guaranteed by the word of promise of God Himself. In tomorrow’s service the Holy Spirit will lead us to those promises of better things to come, and thereby encourage us as we continue on our journey “home.” The sermon text is 2 Peter 3:3-4, 8-10, 13. The Sunday School is singing in second service. Adult Bible class will take up Hosea 10 and following. The public school confirmation class meets at 12:15 p.m.
See you tomorrow,
Pastor