From Our Pastor: Grandeur, Glory & Power

In the readings this weekend, we see what grandeur and glory and power are in the mind of God. They are a suffering servant, a high priest who is perfect yet is able to sympathize with our weakness, one must be willing to serve, and the cup of suffering. Brothers and sisters this is not what we think of when we think of grandeur and glory and power in our world. God wants us to empty ourselves and serve Him and one another. This is glory in the mind of God.

The sons of Zebedee are nicknamed, the “Sons of Thunder.” This is primarily because they are a raucous set of brothers. They were LOUD! They want grandeur and glory and power! Jesus tells them what that means in His Kingdom and that yes they will experience what is ahead for Him and for them. They think they are ready, but it is tough! God makes them ready in those moments.

John dies a natural death, and is the only apostle to do so, but not after many attempts to kill him. All the rest died a martyr’s death. This is the grandeur and glory and power of the Apostles, but that is contrary to everything we know. So in this world today, are you ready to leave everything behind, are you ready to serve, are you ready to take the cup of suffering, are you ready to be weak, are you ready to die for Christ, because that is what He calls us to when it comes to being His followers.

So pick up your cross and follow Him today. And there you will see and witness to the grandeur and glory and power of God! That is what we need of disciples today.

As a personal note, thank you again for all your prayers for my mother. I truly think it is the amount of prayer for her that kept her bleed from growing. She is beginning to improve, but it is going to be a long road of recovery and won’t be easy. Your continued prayers would be greatly appreciated for the entire situation. She is so appreciative of your kindness and prayer. Many have asked how to send her a card or letter. You can put it in the collection basket or drop it by the office or mail it here, and then I will bring them to her! Thank you again for your kindnesss!

-Rev. Steven Arisman