Scripture – ESV
Romans 8:14-17 –
For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, "Abba! Father!" The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.
John 3:34 –
For he whom God has sent utters the words of God, for he gives the Spirit without measure.
Bob’s thoughts:
We arrived just a few minutes before start time, so only a few greetings were exchanged at first, including one during the prayer.
There was a nicely decorated Easter cross and two projection screens.
I’m not sure which gave out first, my hearing aid batteries or my legs from recent surgery pains, but I had to sit early and rely on what I could see of the screens and hear from the congregation to sing along. There were some familiar songs that I didn’t need the screen for, but then it seemed like most quit singing for a social time after which there was recorded music where people sang and talked over. I was glad when it ended and I could hear the pastor without music.
It was a special opportunity to go forward and pray over the pastor who is leaving on a mission trip to Malawi today. There was also a blessing and gifts for some college students.
Communion was served silently in the pews but with no time of confession beforehand.
The pastor shared the story of a child who was told, “You look like your father,” to which she replied, “Which one, my earthly father or my heavenly father?” May we see the resemblance.
The message was about what adoption meant to the Romans. We were encouraged to think of “who we are before what we do,” an important step.
I used to say I was an orphan available for adoption by wealthy clients I built for, then I won and Christ adopted me. God knew me better than I know myself and claimed me anyhow.
Jan’s thoughts:
We arrived just as the service was beginning and after being warmly welcomed at the door, we quickly found seats. A number of folks extended greetings during and after worship.
The walls of the sanctuary were decorated with flags from various countries. Posted next to each flag was the name of the country represented and the names of church members who visited that country. The pastor leaves today for a mission trip to South Africa and Malawi and we enjoyed a conversation with him about that.
At one point during worship, board members were stationed toward the front and anyone desiring prayer was invited forward for prayer and anointing with oil. After that the entire congregation was invited forward to lay hands on the pastor and pray for him and his mission trip. Then six local college students were presented with financial gifts from the congregation.
I was delighted we were able to participate in Communion and used the time beforehand for individual confession.
The current sermon series is called True Identity: Discover who you were made to be and today’s installment was Who You Are. The pastor began by stressing the importance of the Holy Spirit in our relationship with God, as He confirms who we are and focuses on who we are in relationship to God.
Most of the rest of the message focused on the meaning of adoption in ancient Roman culture and currently. He pointed out that God chose to adopt us even knowing all about our past, present, and future, and no one can change God’s choice. Although we sin, we are secure. One important reminder was that we should look at Jesus to see how much God loves us.
Praise God for each of the truths heard here today.
Our prayer for this church:
Father, we pray You continue to guide Your church in their efforts to bring You glory. Amen.
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