Good morning:
Everyone will disappoint you. It doesn’t sound like a very upbeat way to begin a new day, but if you expect perfection in others, it’s true. Sooner or later everyone will disappoint you. The friend you count on to always be there night or day to help may not answer the phone. The admired coworker turns out to be self-absorbed in social settings. The star athlete takes the Lord’s name in vain and posts immoral comments on social media. Everyone will disappoint you at some time. The opposite is also true. We will disappoint others. It’s inevitable because, as Paul wrote, “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Sin in the heart shows in a lack of love toward God and neighbor.
Yet, it’s not entirely true that everyone will disappoint you. Scripture tells us that Jesus is different. He is holy, set apart from sinners. He had no sin of His own. He was tempted in every way, just as we are, but never gave in to sin. He came to carry out His Father’s will in every detail, even though it would mean His suffering and death on the cross. He promises, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (Jn. 8:12). Jesus will never disappoint. Every prayer will be answered. Every promise will be fulfilled. When He tells you that all your sins are paid for and forgiven, they are. When He says, “I will never leave your or forsake you,” He won’t.
So don’t be afraid to put your trust in Him. Go to His Word today for forgiveness and encouragement. Take your worries and plans to Him in prayer. Ask for His blessing and count on receiving it, not because of how good you are, but because of how good and faithful He is. And then when others disappoint you, rather than become angry and bitter, remember how Jesus reacts to our failings. He leads us to see them in the mirror of His law and calls us to come to Him in repentance, that He may graciously pardon us for the sake of His saving sacrifice. How can we not then freely forgive those who disappoint us at times and pray for the Lord’s blessing in their lives too?
Tomorrow’s sermon text takes us back again to the letter to the Hebrews (7:23-28). In this section the writer shows Jesus to be the high priest different from all others. He alone is the perfect one who has saved the world and still lives to intercede on behalf of those who believe in Him.
Yours in Christ,
Pastor
Service times: 8:00 and 10:45 a.m. The Lord’s Supper will be celebrated in both services.
Sunday school: 9:30. Bible class: 9:45. Thought-starter: Does God control “random” events?
Remember to turn clocks “back” one hour tonight.
