Category Archives: Emmanuel (God With Us)

Christ Has Come: The Promised King & His Gift of HOPE — a Refresh & Restore Bible Study

1:1 The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.
2 Abraham was the father of Isaac, and Isaac the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers, 3 and Judah the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, and Perez the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Ram, 4 and Ram the father of Amminadab, and Amminadab the father of Nahshon, and Nahshon the father of Salmon, 5 and Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab, and Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse, 6 and Jesse the father of David the king.
And David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah…. 16 …and Jacob the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, who is called Christ. [1]

Matthew 1:1-6, 16

Merry Christmas, Sojourners!

This is one of my favorite times of the year. The weather is crisp and cool (or cold, depending on the Mississippi weather). Lights and decorations abound. There’s more than enough to do – following our kiddos around, gathering for extra worship times, a few opportunities to pause and reflect on a year spent, and finding that people are more willing to listen or even talk about Jesus than in other seasons.

Over the past few years at Christ Community, I’ve begun to think of this more in terms of Advent than just the Christmas season – not out of some sense of religious tradition or necessity but out of a sense of expectation and hope. The word Advent comes from the Latin word adventus, meaning “coming” or “arrival”. It, of course, represents Jesus’s first coming (hence the Christmas aspect) and His arrival as God made flesh and dwelling among us (John 1:1, 14), but it also reminds us that He is coming again and that arrival in the clouds is on the horizon (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17), maybe even in our lifetime. Advent trains our hearts to wait with hope (Romans 8:23-25, Titus 2:11-13).

Now, this isn’t the sort of hope that we’re used to – some sort of vague wish that we want to come about. That sort of hope leads to disappointment and anxiety. For example, I hear my school kiddos say things like, “I hope I do good on this test.” While there’s a certain anxiety that all too often accompanies the tests, the hope can be more sure than wishful thinking. I remind my students in those moments of all they’ve studied and all they’ve learned. My class is the culmination of all of the English classes they have taken since third grade. Getting to my class means they’ve successfully made it from third grade all the way to ninth or tenth grade. Most of my tenth grade students had me for ninth, so I can remind them also of what they’ve learned, studied, and succeeded at in order to get to the end of the class. Their anxiety flowed from feelings of inadequacy and felt thin because it had nothing solid beneath it.

Biblical hope is different. It isn’t rooted in our effort, our performance, or our feelings. It has substance. It is established on something solid – the promises of God (2 Corinthians 1:20).

The hope Jesus offers – the hope we are reminded of through Advent leading up to Christmas – is based in a more substantial substance than our mere life experience and accomplishments; it’s based out of Jesus’s life and His accomplishments on the cross and through the empty tomb. We can “hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering” because “He who promised is faithful” (Hebrews 10:23). He has a flawless record of keeping His promises – promises no human could make and see fulfilled much less fulfill them alone (see “Appendix: OT Messianic Prophecies Fulfilled Through JESUS in the Gospels”). And we can find hope in His faithfulness because He is the One who promised to come and did (Galatians 4:4-5), so when He promises to return, we can rest in the hope that He will (Revelation 22:12, 20).

Hopefully you took the time to look at the OT Messianic Prophecies Fulfilled Through JESUS in the Gospels appendix, taking a look at the fifty-five examples offered there. Today, though, we’re going to find hope not only in prophecy but in how God worked in the real, messy lives of real, sinful people. We will see that He who promised to redeem and save those who call on Him – confess Him as Lord and believe He raised from the dead (Romans 10:9, 13) – is faithful to do that. Their stories show that the God who speaks His promises is the God who brings those promises to fruition through ordinary sinners like us (1 Corinthians 1:26-31).

So, where do we find these people? We find them – these four women – in Jesus’s genealogy in Matthew 1.

Before we look at any of their stories, it’s worth noting something remarkable: women weren’t usually included in genealogies in the ancient world. Genealogies traced the line through the fathers, generation to generation, name to name. Yet Matthew, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, intentionally highlights four women – and not women we might expect. Their stories are messy. Their pasts are complicated. Their situations were soaked in sin, sorrow, scandal, and suffering. And still the Holy Spirit saw fit to weave their names into the family line of Jesus. Why? Because the gospel isn’t a story for the polished but for the broken (Mark 2:17). Their presence in Jesus’s genealogy serves as the Spirit’s way of holding up the gift of hope – hope that God’s grace reaches further than our failures, hope that His mercy is deeper than our mess, and hope that the promised King truly came to save sinners (1 Timothy 1:15).

These women point us forward to the One who would come from their line – Jesus the Christ, Emmanuel, “God with us” (Matthew 1:23) – the Savior who brings hope to people just like them…and just like us.

Tamar – Hope in God’s Faithfulness
Despite Human Sin (v. 3, Genesis 38)

The first woman is Tamar (v. 3), and her story is found in Genesis 38.

Tamar was Judah’s – as in lion of the tribe of Judah (Genesis 49:8-10), the original – daughter-in-law. She was originally married to Judah’s oldest son Er until “the Lord put him to death” because Er was “wicked in the sight of the Lord” (Genesis 38:7). In those days[2], when the elder son died, it was the role of his younger brother to take his place and father children in his name. This fell to second-born, Onan, but Onan was more sinful and selfish than his big brother, doing what was “wicked in the sight of the Lord” and being “put…to death, also” (Genesis 38:10).

Poor Tamar. Her only hope at bearing children would fall on Judah’s youngest, and last remaining son, Shelah. But Judah lied and had no intention of taking care of or continuing with Tamar. What did she do? She decided to be wicked herself. She tricked Judah and tempted him. How did he respond? He decided to be wicked himself. Judah and Tamar committed sin together, her posing as a prostitute and him partaking in sin with her – honestly sinning against her similarly to his late-son Onan.

Scripture doesn’t hide this, and because of that, we begin to see hope shining through the darkness.

Paul reminds us that “where sin increased, grace abounded all the more” (Romans 5:20), and Tamar’s story is living proof of that. Despite Judah’s sin, despite Tamar’s sin, despite a situation that looked like a generational dead end, God preserved the family line through which the Messiah would come (Genesis 38:27-30). And when faced with evidence of his sin, Judah himself would later confess that Tamar was “more righteous” than him (Genesis 38:26), not because she was righteous in herself, but because God used a broken situation to move His promise and purpose forward.

Tamar’s presence in Jesus’s genealogy shows us that the promised King comes through broken, sinful people to give hope to broken, sinful people.

Rahab – Hope for Outsiders, Sinners,
and the Unlikely (v. 5; Joshua 2, 6:17, 22-25)

The second woman is Rahab (v. 5), and her story is found throughout the Bible in Joshua 2, 6:17, 6:22-25 as well as in the New Testament in Hebrews 11:31 and James 2:25.

Rahab wasn’t an Israelite, so she wasn’t one of God’s chosen people ethnically, and before the Hebrew spies came to her house in Jericho, she was known for her sinful profession as a prostitute, except unlike Tamar, she was not merely posing as one. Yet she exhibited faith in the God of Israel because she had heard of the mighty work He had done with and for His people (Joshua 2:9-11). She chose to side with God’s people rather than her own and hid the Hebrews spies to keep them safe.

And this is what Scripture emphasizes – not the sinfulness of her past but the sincerity of her faith. We see in the book of Hebrews that “by faith Rahab the prostitute did not perish” (Hebrews 11:31), and James says her works proved her faith (James 2:25). Despite her people[3], her background, and her own history, God rescued her by letting her put a scarlet cord in her window to mark her safe when Jericho fell under His judgment (Joshua 2:18-21).

Why a scarlet cord? Some scholarly preacher folks see in it the foreshadowing of the blood of Jesus – God marking the saved safe through a covering only He can provide. For Rahab, it just represented the promise of the mighty God she had begun serving.

What about the fact that she was a prostitute? Why would someone like her be included in Jesus’s official lineage – in the Bible no less? Because Jesus came to save sinners, outsiders, and the unlikeliest of folks – people like Rahab, people like me and you (Luke 5:31-32). Her inclusion in Jesus’s family tree declares that the hope of the promised King is for all nations and all sinners who take refuge in Him (Psalm 2:12).

Ruth – Hope for the Hopeless
and the Gentile (v. 5; the book of Ruth)

The third woman is actually related to Rahab by marriage as she ended up marrying Rahab’s son Boaz. Her name is Ruth (v. 5), and her story is told in the book of the Bible bearing her name.

Like her mother-in-law, Ruth wasn’t one of God’s chosen people. She was from the land of Moab (a people group started out of a sinful union and messy situation way back in Genesis 19:30-37). Her husband Mahlon came to Moab with his family while trying to escape the Lord’s judgment through a famine, seeking help and relief from their own strength and ingenuity rather than from the Lord (Ruth 1:1-2).

While they were in Moab, her father-in-law, husband, and brother-in-law all died. She could have gone back to her father’s house and been right and righteous in doing so, but she decided to accompany her mother-in-law Naomi back to Israel (Ruth 1:16-17). God blessed that decision and relationship and took care of Ruth and Naomi. Part of the way God took care of them was through Rahab’s son Boaz, first providing food and grain for them and ultimately through him taking on the role of kinsman-redeemer[4], marrying Ruth.

This is the beauty of Ruth’s story because providing a redeemer for them was more than just a husband; being called a kinsman-redeemer (Ruth 2:20, 3:9, 4:14-15) is a picture pointing forward to Jesus Himself. Ruth, the foreigner and outsider, the one with no earthly hope, found refuge “under the wings of the Lord” (Ruth 2:12). Her story that began with such sorrow and grief had a happy ending, especially considering Ruth would be King David’s great-grandmother (Ruth 4:17), but doesn’t Jesus deserve a more presentable bloodline?

No, God delighted in bringing hope out of hopelessness and writing His redemption story through those the world would overlook so that those who are overlooked could find hope in Him (1 Corinthians 1:27-29). Ruth’s inclusion in Jesus’s lineage shows that the Messiah is the Redeemer of all who take refuge in Him.

“The Wife of Uriah” – Hope through God’s Mercy
to the Deeply Fallen (v. 6, 2 Samuel 11-12)

The fourth woman isn’t even listed in the genealogy by her name, but how she is listed tells the sadness and sin surrounding her: “And David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah” (v. 6). This is not a slight to her but recognition of King David’s sin with her. Yes, David, the king who is most often heralded as a hero and worshiper of the Lord is also a sinner.

The man who slew Goliath and wrote a big chunk of the Bible’s songbook committed particularly heinous sins: murder and adultery (2 Samuel 11:1-5). David stayed behind when he was supposed to be with his troops and gazed upon the “wife of Uriah” from his roof as she took a bath. He, even though he was married to multiple women already and she was married to one of his mighty men, decided that he wanted to make her his. The resulting union led to a child between them. Rather than owning up and confessing his sin – to the Lord, to his wives, to Uriah, to Israel, David undertook a massive cover-up that ended in his arranging Uriah’s murder (2 Samuel 11:14-17). He stole this man’s wife. He took his life.

It looks good to have a giant-killing worshiper of the Lord in your lineage, but why associate Jesus instead with David’s sin and wickedness (and the same or worse from many of the kings listed after him in the family tree)? Because this gets to the very heart of the gospel.

Bathsheba’s story contains much sin and sorrow, but it doesn’t end that way. God confronted David through the prophet Nathan (2 Samuel 12:1-3). Their baby died (2 Samuel 12:15-18). David repented (Psalm 51). And God, in astonishing mercy, allowed David and Bathsheba to become the parents of another child, Solomon – the next link in the chain leading to Christ (2 Samuel 12:24-25).

Where sin is great, God’s grace is greater still (Romans 5:20). Bathsheba – the wife of Uriah – being included in this genealogy reminds us that the promised King didn’t come to hide human sin but to seek and save sinners (Luke 19:10).

Wrapping Up

Each section walking us through these women’s stories included rhetorical questions meant to make us meditate on what God was doing in and through them: why include these women and take honest looks at their stories?

In short, there really are answers to those questions. Why would the Bible recognize and record those sins and sinners in Jesus’s lineage? Why would the Holy Spirit shine a spotlight on the stories of Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba? Because they all really happened. Sin happens. Every one of them was a real person with a real story marked by real brokenness. And the truth is that all people “have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). None of us – not a single person in the history of the world other than Jesus – deserve to be anywhere near His lineage. But faith in God – trusting in His work, His steadfast love, His kindness, His promises, and in Him – is woven through that lineage like a scarlet cord of grace, like that cord hanging from Rahab’s window, marking those who He saves as safe (Ephesians 2:8-9).

When we look at the mixture of their sin and God’s faithfulness, their failures and His mercy, their weakness and His strength, we are reminded that none of us are worthy of salvation. But that is exactly why He came. Jesus Himself said that He came to “seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10). That coming to seek and save is remembered in Christmas – the incarnation – God coming, taking on flesh and dwelling among us (John 1:14). Hope came as God Himself entered the world with a real genealogy filled with real sinners so He could redeem real sinners like us (Philippians 2:5-8).

The stories of these four women aren’t in Matthew 1 to embarrass them or Jesus. They’re there to announce Him! They testify that the promised King comes through stories soaked in sin, sorrow, scandal, and suffering so that He can bring hope where hope seems impossible. Their lives preach to us that no one is too far gone, no past is too messy, no family tree too twisted, no heart too broken or sin too deep for the Redeemer who came from their line (Hebrews 7:25).

So, as you gather with family and friends this Christmas – and maybe as you glance around at some rough-looking fruit on your own family tree – or whether the roughest branch you see is staring back to you in the mirror of God’s Word, remember this: Jesus is more than the reason for the season. He is the gift of hope for sinners. He came through a broken lineage to step into our brokenness. He came to seek and save people like Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, and David – people like you and people like me (Romans 5:8).

If you haven’t before, won’t you ask Him to save you?

Call on Him. Trust Him. Let the promised King fill your heart with the gift of hope – real hope, lasting hope, the hope that only Jesus can give (1 Peter 1:3-5). If Jesus has saved you, take heart in this beautiful truth: the same King who came to seek and save you is the One who holds you fast. Your hope still isn’t in your performance but in Him and in His promises. And “He who promised is faithful” (Hebrews 10:23). He has redeemed you (Ephesians 1:7), He is with you (Matthew 28:20), and He will come again for you (John 14:3). So fix your eyes on Him this Christmas. Rest in what He’s done. Rejoice in what He’s doing. And let the hope of our Promised King steady your heart now and in every season to come.

[1] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Mt 1:1–16.

[2] This was known as a levirate marriage. The Lexham Cultural Ontology Glossary defines levirate marriage as:

“A law and custom in ancient Israel that if a man died without sons his brother would take the widow for a wife in order to provide male offspring for his dead brother. The children then would be heirs of their dead father’s land and possessions and the family line would not be broken.”

[3] For clarification, saying “her people” here is not referencing her ethnicity but the fact that God commanded Jericho marked for destruction as punishment for sin.

[4] The IVP Bible Background Commentary: Old Testament defines kinsman redeemer thusly:

“The kinsman-redeemer’s role was to help recover the tribes losses, whether those loses were human (in which case he hunted down the killer), judicial (in which case he assisted in lawsuits) or economic (in which case he recovered the property of a family member). Since Yahweh had granted the land to the Israelites as tenants, they could not sell it…. In this way the land remained with extended family as a sign of its membership in the covenantal community.”

This describes the way Boaz married Ruth so that Naomi would have access and provision from the land of her husband and family. There was a more closely related person who could have done this, but Boaz chose to take up the mantle of Ruth’s husband in order to give them the care they needed.

Songs for Sunday, November 30, 2025 @ Christ Community Church (Advent Week 1)

Sunday’s coming, and I’m excited — really, it’s the season that has me excited this week, thinking back on Jesus’s first coming and longing for His return.

Some call this the holiday season, referencing the ever growing plethora of holidays ranging from late November to early January. Others call it the Christmas season, stemming from their clear desire to make sure folks know that Jesus is the reason for the season. The older I get, the more I think of the season leading up to the celebration of Jesus’s birth at Christmas as Advent.

The Church has called this season Advent for centuries (stemming from the Latin word adventus, meaning “coming” or “arriving”), meditating on the coming and arrival of Jesus. And that’s the heartbeat of these weeks leading up to Christmas: Jesus has come, and He will come again.

Advent has a way of slowing us down just enough to remember what matters most. It invites us to look back with gratitude and forward with expectation — back to God becoming flesh and dwelling among us, back to when God kept His promise and sent His Son, and forward to the day when the very same Jesus will come again in glory.

In recent years, we’ve marked these weeks with the lighting of candles to help us focus on Jesus’s past and future advents. The first one — the candle of hope — reminds us that the hope with have in Jesus isn’t some vague wish but an expectation anchored in God’s faithfulness and eternal nature.

All of our readings this year will be based out of the book of Hebrews that we’ve been studying together this year. Hebrews tells us that God confirmed His promise with an oath “so that we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us” (Hebrews 6:18). The hope He gives is “a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul” (Hebrews 6:19) because it doesn’t rest on us at all but entirely on God’s strength and faithfulness.

As we ponder on the hope we have in Jesus in this Advent season, we are reminded that God keeps His promises. Every prophecy, every shadow, every longing of the Old Testament finds “yes and amen” in the first coming of Jesus (2 Corinthians 1:20). And because God proved Himself faithful in that first coming, we can trust Him with every promise whose fulfillment still lays ahead.

Earlier, I remarked about the differences in the way some people refer to the season; a lot of that is driven by sentimentality. The hope we celebrate in Advent isn’t sentimental. It’s not rooted in changing seasons or circumstances but in the unchanging character of our promise-keeping God. Because He sent His Son just as He promised for millennia, we can “hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful” (Hebrews 10:23).

This is the good, gospel news Advent holds out to weary people: Emmanuel (God with us) has come. And Emmanuel will come again. The One who fulfilled every word of prophecy in HIs first coming will do the same at His return. That’s why our hearts can sing with confidence the longing woven into “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”:

“Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel…shall come again with us to dwell!”

What began in Bethlehem will end in glory. The God who came near has promised to come again and make all things new. And in these early weeks of Advent at Christ Community, as we worship, pray, and sing together, we do so with the steady, joyful hope that the King who came once will surely come again — because He who promised is faithful.

Since this is true — and it is — we need to understand that Advent isn’t just a season to observe but a season pointing to the Savior we can come to ourselves. The same Jesus who came once in humility and will come again in glory invites you now to draw near to Him in faith.

If you are weary, come to Him.

If you feel the weight of sin or sorrow, come to Him.

If you’re longing for something more solid than the shifting foundations of this world, come to Him.

The anchor of hope that Hebrews tells about is not an idea but a Person, and His name is Jesus. He’s strong enough, faithful enough, and near enough to hold you fast. I want to invite you to seek Him this Advent season. Bring your questions, your needs, your joys, your burdens. He’s a truer hope than anything this world can offer, and He delights to meet His people when they come to Him.

And I also want to invite you to gather with us this Sunday at Christ Community. There’s something uniquely beautiful about joining our voices together, singing the hope of the gospel, praying with expectation, and sitting under John’s faithful preaching when He opens the Scriptures and points us to Jesus — our living hope, our faithful High Priest, our soon-coming King.

So, come.

Come behold the One who came for us, who is with us, and who will come again for His people.

Here are our Scriptures, songs, and Advent readings:

  • Advent Reading | Hope —

Lighting the first candle of Advent reminds us that our hope is not a vague wish or a fragile feeling—it is anchored in the unchanging promises of God. Hebrews tells us that God “guaranteed” His promise with an oath so that we might have strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us (Hebrews 6:17–18). This hope is “a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul,” firm because it rests on who God is and what He has already done for us in Jesus Christ.

Advent reminds us that God kept His promises in sending His Son. Everything He foretold in Scripture—every shadow, every prophecy, every longing—was fulfilled in Christ. Because God proved Himself faithful in Christ’s first coming, we can trust Him with every promise still ahead. As we enter this season, let us cling to the confession of our hope without wavering, for “He who promised is faithful” (Hebrews 10:23).

17So when God desired to show more convincingly to the heirs of the promise the unchangeable character of his purpose, he guaranteed it with an oath, 18so that by two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us. 19We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain, 20where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf, having become a high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.

Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.

NT260 | Phase 2.2 — The Savior, His Church, and the Mission

This phase will have us reading about Jesus’s life in the gospel of Luke, the formation of the Church in Acts, and walk through the theology found in Paul’s letters that the Church needs to know about and live out the eternal life given by grace through faith in Jesus.

Below, you’ll find brief synopses of each book in this phase to help you understand the scope of the book and most importantly, how it fits into the full Story of the Bible.

When you click on each day’s link, you will find a link to audio, a summary of the chapter, a key verse from the chapter, and opportunities for reflection and outreach.

We’re moving into Paul’s epistles, which we’ll go through chronologically rather than in the order they appear in our Bibles.

Galatians

The letter to the Galatians (check out this cool visual summary from the Bible Project) was written by Paul to churches in the Roman province of Galatia who were facing a spiritual crisis. After Paul preached the gospel of grace, other teachers arrived saying Gentile believers had to be circumcised and keep parts of the Mosaic law to belong to God’s people. Paul writes with urgency to defend the true gospel and his apostolic message, warning that any “different gospel” is no gospel at all (Galatians 1:6–9). His aim is pastoral and clear: believers are made right with God not by works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ (Galatians 2:15–16).

Galatians shows how Christ’s cross brings a new era of freedom and life. Jesus bore the curse of the law so that blessing might come to the nations and the Spirit be given through faith (Galatians 3:13–14). Paul explains the law’s temporary role—it guarded and pointed to Christ—but now that Christ has come, we are God’s children by faith and clothed with Christ (Galatians 3:24–27). This freedom is not for selfishness but for love: “through love serve one another” (Galatians 5:13–14). The Christian life is life in the Spirit, where the desires of the flesh are put to death and the Spirit produces his good fruit—love, joy, peace, and more (Galatians 5:16–25). At the center stands the cross, which reshapes our identity and boasts (Galatians 2:20, 6:14).

In the story of salvation, Galatians declares that the promise to Abraham is fulfilled in Christ: Jew and Gentile are one family, justified by faith and adopted as sons through the Son (Genesis 12:3; Galatians 3:8, 3:26–29, 4:4–7). The gospel does not add law to Christ; it gives Christ alone by grace, and with him the Spirit who makes us new. Because Jesus has set us free, we stand firm in that freedom, walking by the Spirit and bearing one another’s burdens until the day of glory (Galatians 5:1, 5:16, 6:2).

1 Thessalonians

Paul writes 1 Thessalonians to a young church he planted in a strategic, bustling city and had to leave sooner than he wanted (Acts 17:1–10). After sending Timothy to check on them, Paul hears a mostly good report—but also real concerns: grief over believers who had died, questions about the day of the Lord, ongoing persecution, and a few idle members refusing to work (1 Thessalonians 3:1–6, 4:13, 5:1–11, 4:9–12). With a warm pastoral tone, he defends the integrity of the gospel workers (1 Thessalonians 2), thanks God for their evident faith, love, and hope (1 Thessalonians 1:2–3), and urges them to keep growing in holiness, especially in sexual purity and brotherly love (1 Thessalonians 4:1–8, 9–12).

A major theme is Christ’s return—the “coming” of Jesus appears in every chapter (1 Thessalonians 1:10, 2:19, 3:13, 4:13–18, 5:23). Paul comforts grieving believers: those who have died “in Christ” will rise first, and together with the living they will be caught up to meet the Lord—and “so we will always be with the Lord” (1 Thessalonians 4:14–17). He reassures them that the day of the Lord will not overtake them like a thief because they belong to the day, not the night (1 Thessalonians 5:1–5, 9–10). In light of this hope, he calls the church to a steady, everyday obedience—respecting leaders, helping the weak, rejecting idleness, praying constantly, and testing everything by God’s Word (1 Thessalonians 5:12–22).

In the story of salvation, 1 Thessalonians looks back to Jesus’ death and resurrection as the ground of our hope and forward to His coming as the goal of our hope (1 Thessalonians 4:14, 5:9–10). The God who chose and called them is faithful; He Himself will sanctify them completely and keep them blameless at the coming of the Lord Jesus (1 Thessalonians 1:4, 5:23–24). Until that day, the church waits with active faith, steadfast love, and durable hope—turning from idols to serve the living and true God and to wait for His Son from heaven (1 Thessalonians 1:3, 9–10).

2 Thessalonians

Paul’s second letter to the Thessalonians comes soon after the first and meets a church still under pressure. Persecution had not let up, and a false claim had spread that “the day of the Lord” had already come, leaving some shaken and afraid (2 Thessalonians 1:4, 2:1–2). Paul reassures them: when Jesus returns, He will bring justice—rest for His people and judgment on those who oppose the gospel (2 Thessalonians 1:5–10). He prays that God would make them worthy of their calling and glorify the name of Jesus in them, even as they suffer (2 Thessalonians 1:11–12).

Building on 1 Thessalonians, Paul clarifies what must happen before the Lord’s coming: a rebellion and the revealing of “the man of lawlessness,” whom Jesus will overthrow by the breath of His mouth at His appearing (2 Thessalonians 2:3–8; cf. 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18, 5:1–11). Until that day, the church must “stand firm and hold to the traditions” taught by the apostles, trusting the Lord to comfort and strengthen their hearts (2 Thessalonians 2:15–17). Paul also addresses a practical problem—idleness—commanding believers to work quietly and earn their own living, and instructing the church to correct those who refuse to obey (2 Thessalonians 3:6–12, 14–15). In the story of salvation, 2 Thessalonians keeps our eyes fixed on Christ’s certain return and calls us to steady, holy, hope-filled lives while we wait (2 Thessalonians 3:5, 13).

1 Corinthians

Paul writes 1 Corinthians to a gifted but divided church in a major port city shaped by status, rhetoric, and idolatry (Acts 18:1–11). After hearing troubling reports and receiving their questions, he calls them back to the gospel—to humble unity and holy living (1 Corinthians 1:10–13, 5:1–2, 7:1, 11:18). From the start, Paul centers everything on “Christ crucified,” God’s wisdom and power, not human show (1 Corinthians 1:18–25, 2:1–2). Because they belong to Jesus, they must stop boasting in leaders, flee sexual sin, and remember they are God’s temple where the Spirit dwells (1 Corinthians 3:16–17, 5:1–13, 6:18–20). Love—not pride or personal rights—must shape their life together (1 Corinthians 8:9–13, 13:1–7).

Paul also answers practical questions about marriage and singleness (1 Corinthians 7), food and idolatry (1 Corinthians 8–10), and gathered worship (1 Corinthians 11–14). He urges them to build up the church: take the Lord’s Supper in a worthy way, honor one another, and use spiritual gifts for the common good, not for display (1 Corinthians 11:23–26; 12:4–7; 14:12, 26). The famous “love chapter” shows that without love, even the greatest gifts amount to nothing (1 Corinthians 13:1–3). Above all, Paul insists on the bodily resurrection of Jesus and its hope for believers; because Christ is raised, our faith is not empty, our labor is not in vain, and we will be raised imperishable (1 Corinthians 15:3–4, 20–22, 51–58).

In the story of salvation, 1 Corinthians shows the gospel forming a holy people in a worldly place. The church is God’s family, Christ’s body, and the Spirit’s temple—set apart to reflect His character (1 Corinthians 1:2, 3:16, 12:12–27). So we lay down our rights for the weak (1 Corinthians 8:11), pursue love (1 Corinthians 14:1), and do all to the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31). Standing on the sure foundation—Jesus Christ our Lord—we work together for the advance of the gospel until He comes (1 Corinthians 3:11; 16:13–14, 22–24).

Continue reading in our NT260 plan with the third part of Phase 2 — The Savior, His Church, and the Mission.

NT260 | Phase 2.1 — The Savior, His Church, and the Mission

This phase will have us reading about Jesus’s life in the gospel of Luke, the formation of the Church in Acts, and walk through the theology found in Paul’s letters that the Church needs to know about and live out the eternal life given by grace through faith in Jesus.

Below, you’ll find brief synopses of each book in this phase to help you understand the scope of the book and most importantly, how it fits into the full Story of the Bible.

When you click on each day’s link, you will find a link to audio, a summary of the chapter, a key verse from the chapter, and opportunities for reflection and outreach.

Luke

Luke is the first part of a two-volume story (with Acts) written to give believers confidence about Jesus and the good news (Luke 1:1–4; Acts 1:1–2). Early Christians understood the author to be Luke, a physician and coworker of Paul (Col. 4:14; 2 Tim. 4:11). He writes to Theophilus—and to a wider audience—to show that Jesus is the promised Savior for all people: Jews and Gentiles, the poor and the powerful, the outcast and the insider (Luke 2:10–11; 4:18–19; 19:10). Big themes include prayer, the Holy Spirit, costly discipleship, warnings about riches, and God’s grace that lifts the lowly (Luke 1:52–53; 3:21–22; 6:20–26; 11:1–4; 12:32–34).

As a Gospel, Luke reads like an ancient biography centered on Jesus’ public ministry, death, and resurrection. It moves from the temple in Jerusalem to Galilee and back again, with a long “journey to Jerusalem” where Jesus heads to the cross (Luke 9:51). Luke’s style is vivid and orderly, weaving in songs, parables unique to him (e.g., the Good Samaritan; the Prodigal Son), and many scenes of table fellowship that show who belongs in God’s family (Luke 7:36–50; 10:25–37; 15:1–32). Throughout, Jesus is the Spirit-anointed Son of Man who teaches, heals, forgives, and welcomes sinners (Luke 4:1, 14, 18; 5:20–32).

In the big story of the Bible, Luke shows God keeping his promises to Israel and opening salvation to the nations. Jesus fulfills the Scriptures, suffers, rises, and sends his followers out with the Spirit’s power (Luke 24:44–49; Acts 1:8). The kingdom has arrived in Jesus’ words and works, yet we still wait for its fullness—so we live awake, generous, prayerful, and bold in witness until he returns (Luke 11:2; 12:32–40; 21:34–36).

Acts

The book of Acts is Luke’s sequel to his Gospel, written to Theophilus and to a broader audience of early Christians (Acts 1:1; Luke 1:3). Tradition and internal evidence identify Luke, the beloved physician and companion of Paul (Col. 4:14; 2 Tim. 4:11; Philem. 24), as the author. He carefully investigated eyewitness testimony and recorded an orderly account of the risen Christ’s work through His apostles (Luke 1:2–3; Acts 1:21–22). Most likely written in the early 60s A.D., Acts gives believers certainty that the gospel is true and that Christianity is the fulfillment of God’s promises, not a new or dangerous sect (Luke 24:44–47; Acts 24:14–15).

At its heart, Acts shows how the ascended Jesus continues His mission by sending the Holy Spirit to empower His church. The book’s key verse, Acts 1:8, provides its outline: the gospel spreads from Jerusalem (Acts 2:1–47), into Judea and Samaria (Acts 8:4–25), and then outward to the ends of the earth, symbolized by Paul’s ministry in Rome (Acts 28:30–31). Along the way, Luke highlights miracles (Acts 3:1–10; 19:11–12), persecution (Acts 4:1–22; 7:54–60), and the unstoppable advance of God’s Word (Acts 12:24; 19:20). Through it all, Acts demonstrates that nothing—not prison, plots, or shipwrecks—can hinder the spread of the gospel (Acts 5:41–42; 27:23–25).

Acts emphasizes both continuity and fulfillment. Jesus’ death and resurrection fulfill the Scriptures (Acts 2:25–36; 13:32–33), and His exaltation confirms Him as both Lord and Christ (Acts 2:36). The Holy Spirit marks the arrival of the new age of salvation (Acts 2:16–21; Joel 2:28–32) and unites Jews and Gentiles into one people of God (Acts 10:44–48; 15:7–11). Like Jesus in Luke’s Gospel, His followers perform miracles, face opposition, and walk in obedience to God’s plan (Luke 4:18–19; Acts 3:6–8; 14:8–10; Luke 23:4; Acts 26:31–32). The church’s mission is shown to be both ancient—rooted in God’s promises to Israel (Acts 3:25–26)—and worldwide, extending to “all who are far off” (Acts 2:39).

In the Story of the Bible, Acts is the bridge between Christ’s finished work and the church’s Spirit-empowered witness. It records the first thirty years of gospel proclamation, showing how God’s plan of salvation moves from Jerusalem to Rome and beyond (Acts 1:8; 9:15; 13:47). Acts assures us that the risen Christ still reigns, His Spirit still empowers, and His mission still advances until the day He returns (Acts 2:33; 7:55–56; 28:28). The same Spirit who emboldened Peter, Stephen, and Paul continues to strengthen the church today to proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord to the ends of the earth (Acts 4:31; 20:24; 28:31).

Continue reading in our NT260 plan with the second part of Phase 2 — The Savior, His Church, and the Mission.

NT260 | Phase 1 — Jesus, the Promised King

This phase will have us reading Matthew, Luke, and Hebrews. These books were written for Jewish-background believers and help us see Jesus as the promised King and fulfillment of the Old Testament. Matthew presents Jesus as the Son of David. James gives wisdom for living out our faith. And Hebrews explains how Jesus completes the story of God’s covenant people.

Below, you’ll find brief synopses of each book in this phase to help you understand the scope of the book and most importantly, how it fits into the full Story of the Bible.

When you click on each day’s link, you will find a link to audio, a summary of the chapter, a key verse from the chapter, and opportunities for reflection and outreach.

Matthew

The Gospel of Matthew is the first book in the New Testament and helps us see that Jesus is the promised Savior. Matthew, one of Jesus’ twelve disciples and a former tax collector, likely wrote this account to help his fellow Jews see that Jesus is the Messiah. He uses many Old Testament references to show how Jesus fulfilled God’s promises, and he points to Jesus as the Son of David and rightful King.

Matthew’s Gospel is filled with both what Jesus did and what He taught (Matthew 4:23). It includes well-known passages like the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7), the parables of the kingdom (Matthew 13), and the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18–20). As we read, we see Jesus healing, forgiving, teaching, and confronting the religious leaders. Though rejected by many, Jesus is shown to be the King who came to save—not just Israel, but the whole world.

This Gospel reminds us that Jesus is Immanuel—God with us—from beginning to end (Matthew 1:23, 28:20). It shows how Jesus brings God’s kingdom near and calls us to follow Him. Matthew connects the Old Testament to the New and invites us to believe in the One who died for our sins and rose again in victory. The story of Jesus is good news for all people, and His mission continues through us today.

James

The letter of James was written by James the Just, the half-brother of Jesus (Matt. 13:55) and a leader in the church at Jerusalem (Acts 15:13). Once an unbeliever (John 7:5), James came to faith after the risen Christ appeared to him (1 Cor. 15:7). Known for his wisdom and integrity, James wrote to Jewish Christians scattered outside Israel, likely due to persecution (Acts 11:19). This makes James one of the earliest New Testament writings, probably in the mid-40s AD—just a few years after Jesus’ resurrection. The letter is filled with strong, practical teaching for believers who were suffering trials, facing poverty, and struggling with division.

James’s main message is clear: real faith is shown by real obedience. He urges his readers not just to hear God’s Word but to do it (ch. 1:22–25). Like the wisdom books of the Old Testament—especially Proverbs—James is full of vivid pictures, direct commands, and memorable sayings. He addresses the power of the tongue (ch. 3:1–12), the danger of favoritism (ch. 2:1–7), the need for patient endurance (ch. 5:7–11), and the call to care for the poor (ch. 1:27; 2:14–17). Throughout, James points believers to seek “wisdom from above” (ch. 3:17), to pray with faith (ch. 5:13–18), and to live with humility before God (ch. 4:6–10).

In the story of the Bible, James calls God’s people to live out the new life they have received in Christ. His letter echoes the teaching of Jesus, especially the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5–7), and reminds the church that faith and works are not enemies but friends—true faith always produces the fruit of obedience (ch. 2:17, 26). James urges believers to endure trials with hope, resist the pull of the world, and show mercy, because the Judge is standing at the door (ch. 5:9). Until Christ returns, we are to live as wise, wholehearted disciples whose lives point others to the mercy and power of our Savior.

Hebrews

Hebrews is a Spirit-breathed sermon turned letter, written to weary believers to lift their eyes to Jesus. Its author remains unknown—Origen famously concluded, “only God knows.” What we do know is that the book’s majesty is unmistakable. As Wayne Grudem observes, “The majestic glory of Christ shines forth from the pages of the epistle to the Hebrews so brightly that no believer who reads it should ever want to question its place in the canon.” Indeed, there is no other book in Holy Scripture more clearly breathed out by God’s Spirit. The Spirit’s fingerprints are evident in every line as the writer draws deeply from the Old Testament to show that Jesus is the final and complete Word from God.

Written to Christians—likely from a Jewish background—facing discouragement, pressure, and even persecution, Hebrews urges them to persevere (ch. 10:32-36). They were tempted to drift back toward familiar religious traditions (ch. 2:1, 3:12), but the writer shows them a better way. Jesus is better than angels (ch. 1:4), better than Moses (ch. 3:3), and the better High Priest (ch. 4:14-15). He mediates a better covenant through His once-for-all sacrifice (ch. 8:6, 9:11-14, 10:10). Through rich exposition, urgent warnings, and heartfelt encouragements, Hebrews calls the church to “hold fast” (ch. 10:19-22)and to draw near to God with confidence, because Jesus Himself is our anchor (ch. 6:19-20).

In the New Testament, Hebrews is a “word of exhortation” (Heb. 13:22)—what we might call a pastoral sermon—full of both deep theology and practical application. It moves in a rhythm: teaching about Christ’s supremacy, then urging believers to respond with endurance and faith (ch. 12:1-2). The letter’s structure reflects its purpose: to strengthen believers by fixing their hope firmly on Christ (ch. 3:6, 10:23) and calling them to live faithfully until the end (ch. 3:14, 12:28). Along the way, it uses powerful Old Testament imagery—priests, sacrifices, covenants, and the tabernacle—to show that all of Scripture points to Jesus (ch. 9:23-28).

In the Story of the Bible, Hebrews ties the threads together. God spoke through the prophets in many ways, but now He has spoken definitively through His Son (Heb. 1:1–2). Jesus is the final Word (ch. 1:3), the great High Priest (ch. 7:23-25), and the perfect Sacrifice who has opened the way into God’s presence (ch. 10:19-20). By His death and resurrection, we have a cleansed conscience (ch. 9:14), a new covenant (ch. 8:10-12), and a living hope (ch. 6:19). Hebrews calls us to run the race with endurance (ch. 12:1), to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus (ch. 12:2), and to encourage one another until He returns in glory (ch. 10:24-25).

Continue reading in our NT260 plan with Phase 2 — The Savior, His Church, and the Mission.

Songs for Sunday, July 27, 2025 @ Christ Community Church

Sunday’s coming, and I’m excited!

It’s been a month since I’ve been able to write one of these, and my heart is full looking forward to gathering with my faith family this Sunday. The Scriptures we will read and the songs we will sing declare what the weary world — and our own weary hearts — need to hear: GOD is with us.

I know it’s not Christmas (and it’s hard to even think about it in the midst of a Mississippi summer), but I am reminded of what the prophet Isaiah said about Jesus’s coming — He would come and be the Light that would pierce the darkness:

“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light…. For to us a child is born, to us a Son is given….” (Isaiah 9:2,6)

Jesus is that Son, the promised Emmanuel (which means God with us). He isn’t distant or disinterested. No, Jesus is the God who stepped into our world, entered our pain, and walked among sinners. He bore the weight of our sin and carried our sorrows. But even more than being with us, Jesus is also for us.

Look at 1 John 2:1-2:

“But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world.”

That word advocate means someone who speaks on your behalf, who stands beside you when you have no defense of your own. One day, we’ll stand before the Holy God of the universe to answer for our works — for our sin. It’s hard to imagine the crushing weight of the volume of our sin or how we could ever bear it (Psalm 38:4, Romans 3:23). But before we can be under that crushing weight, our advocate steps up. When our Judge asks how we plead, our advocate speaks up, but He doesn’t just plead for us — He points to His own finished work on the cross (John 19:30, Hebrews 10:12-14) — to His blood that covers and blots out our sin (Isaiah 1:18, Colossians 2:13-14, Revelation 1:5). He doesn’t speak up to ask God to forgive or overlook; He says He’s already paid for our sin — paid in full (Romans 8:1, 33-34; 2 Corinthians 5:21).

Those who are saved know that Jesus is our righteousness. He is our covering. And He is our confidence before the Father. As we’ll read in Colossians 2:13-15 this Sunday, we’ll find that the very same God who is our advocate and defends us is the same God who died for us.

The One who stands in heaven interceding for us (Romans 8:34, Hebrews 7:25) is the One who once hung on the cross we deserve, bearing our sin against the wrath of God, to save us (Isaiah 53:4-6, 2 Corinthians 5:21, 1 Peter 2:24).

The cross is where our debt was cancelled (Colossians 2:13-14), and Jesus’s resurrection is where death was defeated (1 Corinthians 15:54-57, Romans 6:9).

That’s why we can sing “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” — because we need Him and can know He’s returning just as He’s already come to us. We can sing “Great I Am” because Jesus is not merely the babe in the manger but God Almighty come to us. We can sing “Jesus Paid It All (O Praise the One)” because our sins, not in part but the whole, were nailed to the cross and the debt of our sin paid in full. And we can sing “Thank You Jesus for the Blood” because His blood wasn’t a mere payment for sin committed but the means by which we are brought near to God.

So, this Sunday come with hope. Come with need. Come with thanksgiving. And come ready to worship the One who is God with us, our Advocate, and our Savior. We will read from God’s Word together (1 Timothy 4:13) and lift our voices to proclaim the gospel to one another as we offer praise to God (Colossians 3:16). We will sit under the teaching of God’s Word as John points us to Jesus (John 20:31). We will have the opportunity for a few hours to get a brief glimpse into the glory that awaits when we find our faith becoming sight (1 Peter 1:8-9, 2 Corinthians 4:17-18) when we come at last to be with Jesus for eternity (Revelation 21:3-4).

Won’t you come and gather with us?

Here are our Scriptures and songs:

2The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone. 3You have multiplied the nation; you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as they are glad when they divide the spoil. 4For the yoke of His burden, and the staff for His shoulder, the rod of His oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian. 5For every boot of the tramping warrior in battle tumult and every garment rolled in blood will be burned as fuel for the fire. 6For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7Of the increase of His government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over His Kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this.

13And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with Him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, 14by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This He set aside, nailing it to the cross. 15He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in Him.

Songs for Sunday, June 29, 2025 @ Christ Community Church

Sunday’s coming, and I’m excited!

Actually, excited is probably an understatement. I’m overjoyed, ecstatic, elated, exhilarated, thrilled, rejoicing, and grateful beyond words to be HOME after 18 days and 19 hours in the hospital and rehab. It has been so sweet to be with Candi and the kiddos and things that feel…normal. Now, I am looking forward to being with my faith family at Christ Community on Sunday.

I find myself a bit overwhelmed as I type this out because there is so much that I want to say. It was the same with praying about and picking the Scripture and music for Sunday; everything seemed right and good and appropriate. Thankfully, there’s just nothing better to sing about than Jesus’s finished work on the cross (Hebrews 10:12), His empty tomb (Luke 24:6-7), and His imminent return (Revelation 22:12, Acts 1:11) — about the living hope we have in Jesus (1 Peter 1:3)!

Concerning that living hope, there is a verse that has been on my heart and mind since I have been sick. It’s the verse I share with people who are going through trials to point them to Jesus, so as I preached to myself, it’s the verse I brought to mind to meditate on and remember. When I got to preach in the rehab unit last Sunday, it’s the verse that I shared with my fellow rehabbers to point them to Jesus. That verse is Nahum 1:7.

The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; He knows those who take refuge in Him.

Nahum 1:7

Nahum 1:7 is good news.

“The LORD is good….” That’s who He is, not a mere adjective to describe His actions or tendencies. He cares for His people (1 Peter 5:7). He blesses those who trust in Him (Jeremiah 17:7). He has steadfast love toward His people (Psalm 103:11, Lamentations 3:22-23) and does good to them (Romans 8:28).

“The LORD [is] a stronghold in the day of trouble….” He is a fortress (Psalm 18:2). He is the protector of His people (Psalm 91:1-2). A fortress is a walled structure designed to protect. The specific type the original language references here is a like a mountain stronghold — not walls built out of bricks or blocks by men but the natural relentless strength God built into the mountains when He created them.

In the day of trouble, we can turn to the Lord and know that He’s got us and we are safe (Psalm 46:1). But here’s how strong our God is: He’s strong enough and big enough to keep us in the palm of His hand (John 10:28-29). And even though He’s so strong that no one could ever pluck us from the palm of His hands, He’s gentle and caring enough that by those same mighty hands, He will lift us up because He cares for us (1 Peter 5:6-7, Isaiah 40:11).

“The LORD…knows those who take refuge in Him.” Now, this is beautiful. If you were to be somewhere in Europe or somewhere where the remains (and sometimes ruins) of castles and fortresses exist, those fortresses would not know if you ran into them for refuge. They aren’t alive. And, as I said, some of them are ruins, meaning their ability to provide fortitude has an expiration date. The Lord is different. Those who put their faith and trust in Him are known by Him (2 Timothy 2:19, John 10:14). This is more than knowing about us or knowing who we are; this is intimate knowledge (Psalm 139:1-4). This is deep knowledge of who a person is. Our God is so good that He not only provides refuge but that the refuge provided in our times of deepest trouble comes with Him knowing who we are and comforting us by His very presence and salvation (Psalm 46:1, Psalm 34:18, Zephaniah 3:17, Isaiah 12:2).

This verse hit hard when we had church in the rehab last Sunday. Some were afraid that they’d never regain movement in their body because of a stroke. Some that their broken back might not heal fully or that another injury might mean paralysis. Others were there as caretakers and feeling inadequate about their ability to comfort their loved one while also feeling totally out of control and incapable to do anything to help. But it was good to know that there is a God who saves (Isaiah 45:21, Titus 3:4-6). There is a God who loved them enough to send His Son to die on their behalf (John 3:16, Romans 5:8) and raise from the dead to offer them new life in Him (Romans 6:4-5, 2 Corinthians 5:17).

It was good news to know that if God can save our souls, healing our bodies is small potatoes (Psalm 103:1-5).

It was good news to know that God is good (Psalm 100:5) and that in our times of darkest trials, He is still light (John 1:5, Psalm 27:1) and still God and still good to us in the midst of sorrow and tribulation (Romans 5:3-5, 2 Corinthians 1:3-5, Psalm 34:18-19).

It was good news to know that God never leaves us or forsakes us (Deuteronomy 31:6, Hebrews 13:5) even when we find ourselves more alone than ever before in our lives — that we can take refuge in Him right where we are and know that He knows us, our needs, and how to give us the strength and grace we need (Matthew 6:8, 2 Corinthians 12:9, Isaiah 40:29-31).

And it’s good news for all of us as well. If you have put your trust in God — confessed Jesus as Lord and believed God raised Him from the dead and are saved (Romans 10:9-10), He knows you and cares for you, too (John 10:14, 1 Peter 5:7).

I know I’ve said it at least a dozen times, but y’all, that’s good news! And it’s that good news — the good news of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ that we’re singing, reading, and preaching about Sunday.

So if you’re weary, hurting, searching, or could just use some good news — come. Not just to attend a church service, but to come to Jesus. He is the refuge we come to and the risen King who is our living hope. We’ll gather to worship Him, read and sing of His cross and resurrection, and have John remind us from God’s Word the good news — the gospel — of Jesus.

Won’t you join us?

Here are our Scriptures and songs:

13 He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. 16 For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. 17 And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. 19 For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, 5 who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

Hope in Jesus Does Not Put Us to Shame — a Refresh & Restore Bible Study

5:1 Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 3 Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, 4 and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, 5 and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.

Romans 5:1-5

"Before the Throne of God Above" from Revelation 4 (The KING is Coming) – Refresh & Restore | A JustKeithHarris.com Podcast

📖 Revelation 4:1–11In this episode of The King is Coming, Keith Harris and Jamie Harrison move beyond Jesus’s letters to the churches and into the next part of John’s vision. In Revelation 4, John is invited through an open door into heaven—and what he sees is the throne room of God.At the center of everything is a throne, and seated on it is the Lord in all His glory. From this point forward in Revelation, the throne becomes the focal point of the entire book.John describes the scene the best way he can: the brilliance of precious stones, a rainbow surrounding the throne, flashes of lightning and thunder, and a crystal-like sea before it. Surrounding the throne are twenty-four elders and four living creatures who never cease to worship the Lord.Together, Keith and Jamie discuss:✔️ Why Revelation 4 marks a shift from the letters to the churches to John’s heavenly vision✔️ What the throne room reveals about God’s authority and security over all things✔️ Why John uses comparisons (“like” and “as”) to describe the glory he sees✔️ The mystery of the twenty-four elders and what we can—and cannot—know✔️ The constant worship of the living creatures crying “Holy, holy, holy”✔️ Why heaven’s worship centers on God simply because He is worthyIn the throne room, everything points to one truth: God alone is worthy of worship.“Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created.” (Revelation 4:11)🔗 If you would like to see a written version of this podcast, complete with footnotes and cross-references, you can find it here.
  1. "Before the Throne of God Above" from Revelation 4 (The KING is Coming)
  2. " Lukewarm Yet Not Without Hope: Jesus’s Letter to the Church at Laodicea" (The KING is Coming)
  3. "Kept Through the Trial: Jesus's Letter to the Church at Philadelphia" (The KING is Coming)

Greetings Sojourners,

I’m home from the hospital after several weeks (18 days and 19 hours) and so glad and thankful!

Being with Candice, Keri, and Xander again has been absolutely wonderful. It’s not just about being back at our house; it’s about being with them. They are my home. Sharing meals, watching movies, hearing them laugh—just being with them—reminds me of what I’m working toward in recovery. I don’t want them to have to be my babysitters and caretakers; I’m ready to get back to being husband, daddy, son, brother, Uncle Keith – full and whole.

And this past Sunday, I got to be back with my Christ Community family. What a gift. I was overwhelmed—in the best way possible. There were tears, but they were tears of joy. So many encouraged me with their words, their hugs, and especially their voices. When I was too overcome to sing during “Nothing Without You,” I heard my sisters Nikki and Shonna lifting their voices and carrying the song—and carrying me with it. And when our church gathered around to pray for me and others longing for healing, James 5:13–15 came to life. John anointed me with oil, the church prayed, and I was deeply moved by the tangible presence of God’s people doing what His Word calls us to do.

If you haven’t already, I’d encourage you to look back at the two previous writings I shared from the hospital. They were part of my processing in real time, and I hope they encourage you:

Now that I’m home and healing (and awaiting more doctor appointments), I want to walk through the passage that held me through the hardest nights. Romans 5:1–5 has been like an anchor for me. These verses walk us through what it means to have peace with God, to stand in grace, and to find real, lasting hope—even when life hurts. This passage has met me where I’ve been—sometimes flat on my back, sometimes inching forward with shaky steps, but always needing the kind of hope that doesn’t put us to shame. It’s not theoretical to me anymore—it’s lived truth. And I want to walk through it with you, verse by verse, to see again what I’ve been reminded of: that Jesus is our peace, Jesus gives us access to grace, Jesus brings joy even in our suffering, and Jesus is our unshakable hope.

Jesus is Our Peace (v. 1)

Verse 1 starts with the word “Therefore”, signaling that this is building on what came before in Romans 3-4. Paul had previously shown that no one is justified — made right with God — by good works or keeping the Law but only by faith in Jesus (Romans 3:28, 4:5). Romans 5:1 shows the result of being justified and saved by grace through faith in Jesus: peace with God.

This isn’t merely some inner calm or warm fuzzy feeling. It’s not circumstantial peace. This is peace that “surpasses all understanding” (Philippians 4:7) — a settled reality that, for those who are saved, the war we waged against God in our sin is over. We once lived as enemies of God (Romans 5:10), alienated and hostile in mind (Colossians 1:21). But now, through Christ, the conflict is resolved in Him. There is no more wrath for those who are in Christ (Romans 5:9). The gavel has fallen. The verdict is in. And the Judge is also the Savior who made peace by the blood of His cross (Colossians 1:20).

The peace we see here in v. 1 is peace through our Lord Jesus Christ. It doesn’t come through human effort, morality, or religion. It is through a Person — Jesus — who took our punishment upon Himself (Isaiah 53:5), died in our place (Romans 4:25), and rose again to give us life and right standing before God (Romans 4:24-25).

Coming home from the hospital reminded me how vital this peace truly is. While my body is still healing and I’m learning new limits and routines, I have peace that’s not dependent on my strength or stability—peace that holds even when I feel weak or uncertain. When you’re going through trials, peace with God means everything. This peace has sustained me through days I couldn’t lift my arms or stand without help, through nights of tears and questions. But it never left. It never failed. No, He never left or failed. This is not pointing to my circumstances but a reality that extends to all of the trials of this life. This peace with God means your soul is safe no matter the circumstances affecting your body or earthly life. Jesus has made a way for us to come to the Father, not out of fear, but as beloved children (John 14:6, Romans 8:15). We get the peace that a child feels when they, terrified in the middle of the night, run and are embraced in the arms of their parents. Knowing Jesus has made a way for us to run to the Father is about the truest idea of peace there is.

Jesus Gives Us Access to Grace (v. 2a)

Paul builds on the peace we now have with God by saying that through Jesus, we have access to grace — and not just a momentary taste, but a continual standing in it. This is the grace of God that justifies us (Romans 3:24), the grace of God that saves (Ephesians 2:8), and the grace of God that sustains us (2 Corinthians 12:10).

It’s grace, so it’s not something we’ve earned, and it’s not something we could ever keep on our own. This grace is a place we stand because Jesus holds us there.

That word “access” in v. 2 is rich in meaning. It describes being brought into the presence of royalty by someone with the right to do so. That’s what Jesus has done for us. He doesn’t just bring us peace with God — He brings us into the throne room of grace (Hebrews 4:16). And because of Him, we don’t stand in fear or shame but in favor, the favor Jesus earned and deserves, welcomed and secure in relationship with God (Romans 5:1-2, Ephesians 1:6, Hebrews 4:16).

I think about this truth often now that I’m home and trying to rebuild strength. There were weeks I couldn’t physically stand—I had to be lifted, guided, even fed. Yet even then, I never stopped standing in grace. Not once. Not when I was flat on my back, not when I was wheeled down hallways to therapy, not when I cried out to God in pain and weakness. His grace held me. His grace still holds me.

This is where the theology meets real life—especially when you’re walking through suffering. Grace is not a place we earn; it’s what we receive because of Jesus – because of what He earned. My standing in grace isn’t special or unique to me; everyone who has been saved by Jesus is still standing in His grace (2 Corinthians 12:9-10, 1 Peter 5:10, Romans 8:18). This is part of the beauty of being in Christ. If you are in Christ, your position with God is not fragile. It’s not based on your performance or dependent on your condition. Jesus has secured it and sustains it by His grace (John 10:28-29, Philippians 1:6, Romans 8:38-39).

Jesus Brings Joy Even in Our Suffering (vv. 2b-4)

This section of Romans 5:1-5 is where people get caught up because Paul says something pretty shocking: not only do we rejoice in our hope — we rejoice in our sufferings.

Yup, read that again. We are supposed to rejoice in our hope. But we are also supposed to rejoice in our sufferings.

If you think that sounds strange, and can even be offensive if taken out of the context of Romans 5 (which is something we need to be especially careful with here). Paul denying the reality of pain. Paul knew pain deeply. He knew beatings, imprisonment, sickness, shipwrecks, rejection, and weakness (2 Corinthians 11:24–28). What the Spirit through Paul is doing here is showing us that, in Christ, even our pain has a purpose. We rejoice in our sufferings not because it feels good but because we know what God can and is doing through it.

Let’s break it down.

First, we rejoice in the “hope of the glory of God”. This is the secure promise that one day we will see Jesus face-to-face and be fully transformed into His likeness (1 John 3:2, Colossians 3:4). That’s not a vague wish — it’s a guaranteed future secured by the finished work of Jesus. It gives us eternal perspective and lifts our heads to look forward beyond our present troubles (2 Corinthians 4:17-18, Romans 8:18).

Paul goes further. He says we can also rejoice now, in the middle of our trials. Why? Because suffering shapes us:

  • “suffering produces endurance” — the Spirit works in us to give the strength to persevere, holding us when things are hard
  • “endurance produces character” — a tested, refined faith that isn’t superficial but rooted in Christ and who He is making us to be
  • “character produces hope” — again, a hope not based on circumstances or fickle, earthly, hypothetical hope but built on who Jesus is, what He’s done, and all He’s promised

Over the last few weeks in the hospital, I’ve seen this unfold in ways I couldn’t have expected. Lying in a hospital bed with no ability to move, no answers, and nothing but time and pain forced me to lean into Jesus like never before. I found that suffering is a classroom—not one I signed up for, but one in which the Spirit was a very present teacher. He reminded me that I wasn’t alone (Psalm 139:7–10, Isaiah 41:10, Matthew 28:20), that He had not abandoned me, and that He was working something in me I could never have built on my own (Romans 8:28, James 1:2–4). He’s shown me how He gives strength when I am beyond weak (2 Corinthians 12:9-10, Isaiah 40:29-31), producing something in me I couldn’t manufacture on my own (Romans 5:3-5).

This is why we rejoice (1 Peter 1:6-7).

Only a fool would revel in the difficulties or try to enjoy the pain and suffering. No, this is rejoicing in the loving hands of God that lift us up out of the mire and difficulty (Psalm 40:1-3, 1 Peter 5:6-7) and hold us safe and secure in Him (John 10:28-29, Romans 8:38-39). It is rejoicing in knowing that we can look to the horizon and see the beauty of eternity with Jesus (Revelation 21:3-4), knowing that every speedbump and tribulation is something that can draw us closer to Jesus and make us more like Him (2 Corinthians 4:16-18; Romans 8:17-18, 29). Let me be clear: this isn’t the result of grit—it’s the fruit of grace. Joy in suffering is not natural, but it is supernatural. It’s a gift from God to His people who are held fast by Jesus.

Jesus is Our Unshakable Hope (v. 5)

After walking us through the path of suffering, endurance, and character, Paul arrives at the bold and beautiful conclusion of that paragraph: hope does not put us to shame.

In a world of letdowns, empty promises, and fragile dreams, that’s a stunning calm. But Paul isn’t talking about generic, hypothetical optimism. He’s talking about Jesus — and He’s unshakable.

Why doesn’t this hope disappoint? Because it’s grounded in the love of God, not in the shifting sand of circumstances. Paul says that God’s love has been poured into our hearts. That verb there translated “poured” isn’t a trickle — it’s a flood. Through the Holy Spirit, given to every believer, God pours out His love — not just toward us, but into us. The very presence of God’s Spirit is assurance that we belong to Him (Ephesians 1:13-14), and that His love for us is not distant but deeply personal and present. His Spirit is inside those He saves – not some concept or ethereal force but a Person, God within us.

In Jesus, you’re not holding onto hope, white knuckling it and hoping everything might work out okay. In Christ, hope is holding onto you (Hebrews 6:19-20), secured by the Spirit (Ephesians 1:13-14) and sealed in the love of God (Romans 8:38-39). When your strength fails, He doesn’t (Isaiah 40:28-31). When your feelings falter, His love doesn’t (Lamentations 3:22-23, 2 Timothy 2:13). Even when you don’t feel hopeful, you can trust that the Spirit is at work in you, reminding you who you are and Whose you are (Romans 8:16, Galatians 4:6).

I’ve needed that reminder every day this month. There were moments when I wondered what the future held.

I was reminded of the deep faith of men like Charles Spurgeon who dealt with debilitating and crippling gout and depression yet he continued to serve the Lord as trials piled like cordwood.

I was reminded of David Miller who suffered from muscular atrophy from his teenage years and lost the use of every muscle in his body until he was bound in a wheelchair. I think of his testimony about the aftermath of his son being paralyzed in a wreck. He told me that he sat by his son’s hospital bed — in his own wheelchair, a wheelchair identical to the one his son would have to use — and sang the hymns of the faith, quoted Scripture over his son (as he couldn’t hold a Bible), and thanked God for giving him decades to live in a wheelchair like that so that he could help his son.

A month in the hospital can’t compare to lives like theirs. Yet God showed me that, if He could handle their trials and give them endurance, character, and hope, He can handle any and every trial that His children will go through. God’s goodness, protection, and care aren’t limited to Spurgeon or Miller, though; think of all the people He carried through trials in the Bible.

  • Job was carried through Satan attacking his family, health, and sanity (Job 1–2).
  • Joseph was carried through betrayal, slavery, and prison to save his family and many others (Genesis 37, 39–50).
  • Moses was carried through forty years in the wilderness with a complaining people (Exodus 3–Numbers 20).
  • Hannah was carried through years of barrenness and deep grief (1 Samuel 1–2).
  • David was carried through hiding in caves and fleeing for his life before becoming king (1 Samuel 18–31).
  • Elijah was carried through exhaustion, fear, and depression under a broom tree (1 Kings 19).
  • Jeremiah was carried through persecution and tears while faithfully proclaiming God’s Word (Jeremiah 20, Lamentations 3).
  • Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah (a.k.a. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego) were carried through the fiery furnace and came out without even smelling like smoke (Daniel 3).
  • Daniel was carried through the lion’s den with unshakable faith, not receiving so much as a nibble from hungry lions (Daniel 6).
  • Mary was carried through scandal, fear, and wonder as she bore the Son of God (Luke 1–2).
  • Peter was carried through the shame of denying his Savior and restored by Jesus Himself (Luke 22:54–62, John 21:15–19).
  • Paul was carried through imprisonments, beatings, and shipwrecks for the sake of the gospel (2 Corinthians 11:24–28, Acts 27).

Our God is not just the God of our mountaintop faith—He’s the God who meets us in the valley, walks with us through the fire, and floods our hearts with His love even when we feel empty. Doubts creep in. Trials come and go and sometimes never go away on earth, but God keeps pouring out His love. He does it because He is good and He is God and He is faithful. His hope doesn’t put us to shame.

Wrapping Up

Romans 5:1-5 isn’t a feel-better-formula or some kind of positive thinking strategy — it’s a gospel-soaked promise from the living God. It is real peace, real grace, real joy, real hope—and every bit of it comes through Jesus.

If you’re reading this and you’ve never trusted in Jesus for salvation—if you don’t know what it’s like to have peace with God or hope that holds firm even when life falls apart—hear this clearly: you don’t have to stay where you are. Jesus invites you to come to Him. His Word says, “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved” (Romans 10:9).

This isn’t about fixing yourself or cleaning yourself up first — it’s about trusting the One who already paid the price to redeem you. The Bible promises that “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Romans 10:13). That invitation is for you.

Come to Jesus. Lay down your burdens. Trust in His finished work on the cross. Let Him pour His love into your heart by His Spirit and anchor your life in a hope that never puts you to shame.

And if you already belong to Jesus, but you find yourself weary or hurting, don’t forget what the Holy Spirit has taught you in Romans 5.

  • You have peace with God — He’s not against you.
  • You stand in grace — you are held and sustained by him.
  • Your suffering is not pointless — He is producing endurance, character, and a hope that is alive because He is alive.
  • You may feel weak (or very well be weak), but the Spirit of God lives in you.
  • Your circumstances may shift, but Jesus never will.

So, hold on, and more than that — let hope, let Jesus hold you. You are seen. You are loved. And in Christ, you are not alone and never forsaken (Hebrews 13:5, Romans 8:38–39).

Thank you for reading. While I hope my story and testimony will help others who are struggling or going through trials, I know that the Word of God offers better and lasting hope — for “faith comes from hearing and hearing from the Word of Christ” (Romans 10:17). If you are struggling or going through trying times, look at the many, many cross-references; click on them and let God’s Word encourage and comfort you. And may you encounter the God of the Bible, our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, in your time of need.

I had big plans to be much further in our The King is Coming study of Revelation, but God had other plans. Lord willing, we will be back next week with Jesus’s letter to the church at Thyatira in Revelation 2:18-29.

Until then, dear Sojourner, thank you and may God bless you.

God Hears, God Sees, & God Knows — a Refresh & Restore Bible Study

I’ve had a lot of time to think lately as I’ve been in this hospital room, and I have found myself meditating on Exodus 2:23-25:

23 During those many days the king of Egypt died, and the people of Israel groaned because of their slavery and cried out for help. Their cry for rescue from slavery came up to God. 24 And God heard their groaning, and God remembered his covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob. 25 God saw the people of Israel—and God knew.

This is the passage we closed with in the adult Bible study at Christ Community last Sunday, and the beauty of it has captivated me. For context and to understand the magnitude of these verses, we’ve got to get the lay of the land in Exodus 1-2.

Genesis ends with all of Israel’s family (the person Israel, aka Jacob) in Egypt after God providentially took the evil done to Joseph by his brothers and put him in a position to “preserve life” (Genesis 45:5, cf. Genesis 50:20). God used Joseph and gave him the ability to interpret dreams, which let Egypt enjoy plenty when the world around them faced famine (Genesis 47:13-26). Joseph was second only to Pharaoh, and God preserved Israel (the Hebrews/people group), moving them to the land of Goshen in Egypt (Genesis 47:27).

Now, fast forward many generations there in Egypt and “there arose a new king over Egypt, who did not know Joseph” (Exodus 1:8). This king found himself surrounded by God’s people who He had providentially made to be “fruitful” and “increased greatly”, growing “exceedingly strong, so that the land was filled with them” (Exodus 1:7, cf. Genesis 1:28). This king was worried about the position this great people group could put him in and was afraid of losing his power, so he decided to “set taskmasters over them to afflict them with heavy burdens” (Exodus 1:11). He made God’s people His slaves, but “the more they were oppressed, the more they multiplied and the more they spread abroad” (Exodus 1:12). Even in the midst of turmoil and trial, God was keeping His promise to Abraham that He would make his offspring number like the stars of the heavens (Genesis 15:5) and the sand on the seashore (Genesis 22:17), and bless all the nations of the earth through his offspring (Genesis 18:18, 22:18, cf. Galatians 3:8). In the midst of terrible oppression, He who promised was faithful (Hebrews 10:23, cf. Lamentations 3:22-23).

The trouble in Egypt rose to from oppression to murder and semi-genocide as Pharaoh commanded that baby Hebrew boys be cast into the Nile (Exodus 1:22). The bulk of Exodus 2 is God providentially saving Moses from death in the Nile, using that same river to float him to a life where he would be adopted by Pharaoh’s daughter (Exodus 2:1-10).

It’s an understatement to say that the Israelites were experiencing terrible things. Atrocities. Evil. Wickedness.

Sometimes, we find ourselves in times of trials and troubles when it seems like no relief is coming and that no one sees or notices. We can easily feel isolated and alone. These are the times when people begin to ask the question whether or not God cares or even knows — asking, why won’t He do something? (Psalm 10:1, Habakkuk 1:2-3)

This was surely how Israel felt by the end of Exodus 2. They “groaned because of their slavery and cried out for help” (Exodus 2:23). Just as the load of their taskmasters burdened them, they were burdened with grief and despair. Where was the God who brought them from a land of famine to the land of plenty? Why bring them there if only to leave them and forsake them? But God never leaves nor forsakes His people (Joshua 1:5, Hebrews 13:5, 2 Corinthians 4:9, Deuteronomy 31:6).

Look at what God had for Israel (and has for us) in Exodus 2:23-25.

“Their cry for rescue from slavery came up to God.” (v. 23b)

This wasn’t a formal prayer or some polished religious petition. It was a groan (v. 24) — a raw cry made out of desperation. Yet it came up to God. That is grace (Romans 8:26-27).

Their pain wasn’t lost in transmission or ignored by God. He’s not aloof or distant when His people suffer (Psalm 139:1-2, Exodus 3:7). Look at how David puts it in Psalm 34:17-18:

“When the righteous cry for help, the LORD hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”

The cries of God’s people — His children — always find His ear, even when our words run out and all we have left is a groan (Romans 8:26). We need to know that our cries don’t disappear into silence — they rise to God (1 Peter 3:12, Isaiah 65:24, Psalm 55:17).

“And God heard their groaning….” (v. 24a)

Let me say it again: God hears. He heard them, and He can hear you.

When the Israelites groaned under the weight of slavery, it didn’t go unnoticed. Their pain was not wasted. God isn’t like Pharaoh who heard and ignored. He is a Father who bends low to listen (Psalm 116:1-2, Isaiah 64:4). This should encourage us in prayer because God is never too busy, too disinterested, or too far away (Psalm 145:18, Jeremiah 33:3). He hears the whisper of the wounded and the shout of the desperate (Psalm 10:17).

Even when it feels like no one else is listening, God hears (1 John 5:14, Micah 7:7).

“…and God remembered His covenant with Abraham,
with Isaac, and with Jacob.” (v. 24b)

When it says “remembered” here, it does not mean that God is recalling something He had momentarily forgotten or lost track of. It means God was about to act (Exodus 6:5-6).

To “remember” in the biblical sense here is covenant language. It means God is faithful to what He has promised (Hebrews 10:23). Even after generations of silence, God had not abandoned His people or His Word. He made a covenant to bless them and bring them to the land He had promised (Genesis 15:18-21, Exodus 3:6-8), and He was preparing to fulfill it.

When we feel forgotten, we can rest in this:

“God is not man, that He should lie, or a son of man, that He should change His mind. Has He said, and will He not do it? Or has He spoken, and will He not fulfill it?” (Numbers 23:19)

God made promises to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob. He remembers. He fulfills His promises (Psalm 105:8-10, Luke 1:72-73). Sometimes, we can almost be afraid to hope (maybe I’m speaking from where I am now), but God’s memory is perfect and His promises are sure.

“God saw the people of Israel — and God knew.” (v. 25)

These are some of the most tender words of all. God saw. He didn’t just hear — He saw their suffering, saw them (Genesis 16:13, Psalm 33:13-15). And God knew. He knew their pain, their burdens, their brokenness. This is the kind of knowing that moves the heart of God toward His people. It’s intimate. It’s personal. It’s the same kind of knowing we see in Jesus, who looked at the crowds and had compassion on them (Matthew 9:36, Mark 6:34).

You are not invisible to God. Wait, I need to say that to myself: I am not invisible to God. He sees. He knows. And because of Jesus — our Savior who bore our griefs and carried our sorrows (Isaiah 53:4) — we can be sure that He enters into our suffering with us (Hebrews 4:15).

Exodus 2:23-25 shows us something precious about the heart of God. The Israelites were enslaved, burdened, and groaning under cruel oppression, yet God was not distant. He heard them. He remembered His covenant with them. He saw them. And He knew them.

The ultimate fulfillment of that covenant — the promise to bless all nations through Abraham’s offspring — was Jesus (Galatians 3:16, Genesis 22:18)! He is the same God — the covenant-keeping God who never changes (Hebrews 13:8, Malachi 3:6) — who still hears, still sees, and still knows today.

These past three weeks have been some of the hardest in my life. Pain, immobility, weakness, and unknowns have left me stripped of my independence and strength. I have needed help to do the most basic of things. But what I’ve learned — or perhaps what I’ve been lovingly reminded — is that though I have limits, God does not. Though I am weak, He is strong (2 Corinthians 12:9-10). Though I have groaned, He has heard. Though I have wrestled in the dark, He has seen. And when I’ve felt confused, broken, lost, or even forgotten by doctors and insurance companies these last three days, He has known — not just facts about my situation, but He knows me because I am His (Nahum 1:7, John 10:14).

This is not unique to me. That’s who God is. He invites the weary and the burdened to come — to to a system or religion but to Him:

[Jesus said] “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30)

God isn’t merely aware of your pain — He cares (1 Peter 5:6-7, Psalm 55:22). He is not powerless to act — He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to take on your greatest burden: sin and death. On the cross, Jesus bore our sins and carried our sorrows (Isaiah 53:4). He died to pay for our sins, and He rose again to offer us life — real, eternal, abundant life (John 10:10, Romans 6:4). If God could hear the groans of Israel in Egypt and set in motion their deliverance through Moses, how much more should we see His heart in the Deliverer He sent us — Jesus.

So, what do you do when you find yourself groaning, crying out, and feeling forgotten?

You call upon the name of the Lord:

“For everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved.” (Romans 10:13)

Salvation isn’t about cleaning yourself up or fixing your own problems. It’s about trusting the One who can save despite your need of cleansing and sin. The Bible says:

“If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believer in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9)

This isn’t salvation from a mere problem or seeking to be lifted out of a trial. This is taking us and bringing us from dead in sin to alive in Christ (Ephesians 2:1-5). This is taking us from lost to found (Luke 15:24). This is taking us from the darkness and bringing us into His light (1 Peter 2:9, Colossians 1:13-14). If God can do that, what is a little trial or sickness or tribulation (2 Corinthians 4:17-18)?

So, if you’re weary — if you’re burdened — if you’re groaning under the weight of suffering — come to Jesus. He sees, hears, knows, and saves.

And for those who are already in Christ, let this be a fresh reminder: our God is not absent in affliction. He is near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18). His Spirit intercedes with groanings too deep for words (Romans 8:26). He will never leave you nor forsake you (Hebrews 13:5). And one day, He will wipe every tear from your eyes and swallow up death, pain, and sorrow forever (Revelation 21:4, Isaiah 25:8).

Until that day, hold fast and hope in God.

He hears you.

He sees you.

And He knows you.

Reflections on the Goodness of God from My Hospital Bed — a Refresh & Restore Testimony

Greetings Sojourners,

As I write this, I am on my seventh day of my current hospital stay. This hospitalization — or even the illness really — is not the subject of my reflections but merely a backdrop. However, I will give enough details for clarity and hopefully none for complaint.

Many of you most likely do not know that I am in the hospital, and that is because I don’t care for that sort of attention. Outside of the Christ Community prayer group and a few personal messages, I have not shared much. Ultimately, this is pride — not trying to hide things necessarily, but some difficulties are hard to share even when you should (2 Corinthians 12:9). So I’m sharing now.

Two weeks ago (May 29), I woke up with what I thought to be gout flare ups in both feet. This was odd as gout typically manifests in just one, isolated joint. I already knew that I am an atypical sort of guy, so I just was going to roll with the weird. Within an hour, both feet were fully swollen up to the ankle. By lunch, my left wrist and the little finger joint on the right hand had joined in with swelling and pain.

The next morning (May 30) I awoke to walking being nearly impossible because of excruciating pain in both feet. I needed assistance eating because the pain in both hands was nearly as bad. I still managed to walk to the bathroom a few times. Little did I know I would only walk one more time the following day.

The next Monday (June 2), Candice took me to an orthopedic doctor in Oxford. They performed x-rays and examinations that revealed my feet were “full of arthritis”, meaning there was no space in my foot not taken up by inflammation which explained why walking or even standing, and the doctor scheduled a wide array of labs to be run and started me on a steroid pack. The following day (June 3), Kevin took me to Oxford to get the labs run. And the wait began.

Long story short, steroids brought little relief and the lab results were largely inconclusive except to say that wide spread inflammation was occurring in my body. By the end of the week (June 6), the total joints inflamed and in pain expanded to both knees, the right hip, and eventually both shoulders. We went to the hospital that night and ended up staying (and are still here).

Ultimately, there is no official diagnosis, but what is known is:

  1. There was gout involved.
  2. Even though there initially was thought to be some sort of infection, none was found.
  3. My body had an autoimmune response and was fighting against itself causing the wide spread inflammation to all the joints.
  4. God is still seated on His throne, still loves me, still cares for me, can heal me if He so chooses, and — for whatever reason — has me where I need to be even if it’s not where I want to be (Romans 8:28, 2 Corinthians 4:16-17).

The reason I am writing this is because in the midst of the worst two weeks of my life, I have consistently seen and experienced the goodness of God on display (Psalm 27:13) and want to share that. So, with no further ado, let me share with you about the goodness of God.

Reflection #1 — An Excellent Wife I Have Found

10 An excellent wife who can find?
She is far more precious than jewels.
11 The heart of her husband trusts in her,
and he will have no lack of gain.
12 She does him good, and not harm,
all the days of her life.

Proverbs 31:10-12

So far (and for the rest of this), Candice is typing instead of me. I have gained about 95% usage of my left arm and hand back and only about 75% of my right arm and hand (which also has an IV in a less-than-helpful position). This is the first collaboration of this sort Candice and I have ever done, and judging by how much she hates that she’s having to type out a reflection thanking God for her and bragging on her, this may be our last.

Over the last two weeks, Candice has tirelessly (despite exhaustion and being as overwhelmed and scared as I have been) cared for me night and day. She has advocated for me with doctors (even ferociously at times), fed me, bathed me, and loved me through this time. While I was humiliated for being so unable to do for myself, her love humbled me and reminded me that wedding vows spoken by young adults prove out by the deeper-than-romance love that God can foster between a husband and a wife.

This has not been easy for her. She didn’t expect it to be. The love that she has shown me, even as she types this now through her own tears, has preached the gospel of Jesus’s love for His Church more eloquently and effectively than my words ever could (Ephesians 5:32). Her selfless actions and unrelenting care were more than “word or talk”, showing her love “in deed and in truth” (1 John 3:18).

I could not, should I live a thousand years, hope to ever repay or match her show of love and care (although I can’t wait to get to go home and try). She’s more precious than treasure (Proverbs 31:10), has all of my trust, is my favorite person and the love of my life, and has shown real-life love more than I could have ever dreamed of 22 years ago.

Reflection #2 — God Exulted Over Me With Loud Singing

The LORD your God is in your midst,
a mighty One who will save;
He will rejoice over you with gladness;
He will quiet you by His love;
He will exult over you with loud singing.

Zephaniah 3:17

We were supposed to be on a mission trip with our Christ Community youth group in New Mexico right now, but obviously we are not.

I am immensely thankful that God allows me to be one of the pastors at Christ Community, and getting to serve and disciple our kiddos is one of the greatest joys of my life. Needless to say, a large portion of my heart has been in New Mexico while my body has been confined to this hospital bed.

Sara Goldwater worked it out with Candice that they would FaceTime us so that we could participate in some of their nightly worship times. I knew we needed that, but at the time I was so mentally, physically, and emotionally overwhelmed I almost said no. Thankfully, I didn’t because the kiddos and adult leaders who are so dear to my heart ministered to me more that night than I ever have to them.

The time they spent singing and songs they chose were so carefully, lovingly, and thoughtfully arranged that by the end I was ugly crying and raising the only hand I could in worship of God.

The first song they chose was “Battle Belongs“, reminding that God is our fortress, mighty to save, and has already won the only battle that eternally matters through the cross and His empty tomb (Colossians 2:14-15).

The second song was “Firm Foundation (He Won’t)“, reminding me that Jesus is my rock and firm foundation, who has never failed in all of history, will never fail in the time that remains, and will protect and keep me through the storms of this life (Matthew 7:24-25). It brought to mind a quote from Charles Spurgeon (who dealt with debilitating gout and health problems that often left him bedridden for longer than I have been):

I have learned to kiss the waves that throw me up against the Rock of Ages.

After a verse and chorus of “Because He Lives“, and being reminded that I know who holds the future, the mission team humbled me and loved me in a way that was nearly overwhelming. They passed the phone around and one-by-one spoke something meaningful, encouraging, personal, and loving. To say that I was wrecked is a vast understatement. I was reminded of Zephaniah’s words to Israel above about how, even in times of trials and exiles, God was still in their midst, still mighty to save, still rejoicing over them. But it’s the last part of Zephaniah 3:17 that was so poignant and clear to me that night as it describes God Himself quieting His people, those He loves, by exulting over them with loud singing. I experienced God singing over us by His mission team singing over me. That memory will stay with me from here on out.

Reflection #3 — Built Up and Burdens Borne

Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.

1 Thessalonians 5:11

Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.

Galatians 6:2

We have experienced such a great outpouring of love, concern, care, and prayer from our family, faith family, and friends. Difficult times are often lonely times, but that has not been our experience. I could not begin to recount all of the text messages and phone calls. Family (both biological and church) have come to sit and visit to lift spirits. The days leading up to the hospital stay, Candice did not have to cook as well as care for me because God has people in our life who took care of that, even being so thoughtful as to find out some foods our kiddos would like and sending us to the hospital with our own vending machine stockpile so as to not go without at all.

Sometimes it is not until after tragedy or loss that people step up in this way. I have often wondered why we do not share more freely how we feel with people while they are still with us. However, I do not have to wonder anymore because God has used the kindness and care of our families and friends to show His goodness toward us.

Without hesitation, Katherine and my parents have taken care of Xander for the entirety of the hospital stay, keeping him busy and worry-free while Candice and I were living out the opposite. Candice’s dad wanted to show appreciation for our helping him through similar health difficulties that we may experience the way he felt when cared for. And as far as helping bear our burdens, Kevin got me in and out of the vehicle and wheelchair multiple times, and he and Daddy literally carried me out of the house the day I went to the hospital.

Keri was still able to go with our church on the mission trip, and we did not have to doubt for a second that she would be cared for, looked after, and loved like she was their own (because that’s how our faith family loves). We received many text messages at various times making sure that we knew she was being cared for looked after (while still letting her be the independent young woman she is). We are thankful for the spiritual aunts, uncles, and cousins who have adopted our kiddos and love them.

While tangible shows of care and physical presence are big, nothing has moved me more than the sheer volume of people praying for us. Too often, we treat prayer like the least we can do, but what more can you do than seek God Most High on behalf of someone? I felt like the man in Mark 2:1-12 whose friends carried him on the roof of where Jesus was, removed a section, and lowered their friend to where Jesus could help him. It’s humbling to know that so many were willing to approach the throne of grace and seek mercy from the King on my behalf (Hebrews 4:16). It is the most they could do, and they did it tirelessly.

When you are feeling alone in sickness and pain, it’s too easy to be isolated, but God in His goodness, as reminded us at every turn, that He is with us and has given us family, friends, and a faith family to remind us of that.

Reflection #4 — Lord From Sorrows Deep I Call

Why are you cast down, O my soul,
and why are you in turmoil within me?
Hope in God; for I shall again praise Him,
my salvation and my God.

Psalm 42:11

Sunday night/the wee hours of Monday morning was probably the longest of my life thus far. I have been avoiding pain medication as much as possible, but should have taken it sooner that night. The pain got to be too much, and coincided with a night requiring multiple lab draws with arms too swollen to find veins. I had just become overwhelmed.

In normal circumstances, I use the Dwell app (an audio Bible/Scripture meditation app) to take my mind off of difficulties or trials, but I could not work my phone or hold a Bible in my hands. My mind was so frantically distracted that I found it difficult to bring Scripture to mind. I laid in the dark, pleading with the Lord, praying for help or relief or whatever.

Now, if you know Candice, sleep has always been very precious to her. If you know hospitals at night, you know sleep is for well people at home. However, Candice stood over my bed for hours, playing various playlists of Scripture verses to help me fix my mind on things above, on Jesus, “not on things that are on earth” (Colossians 3:1-2). She played “psalms and hymns and spiritual songs” to help the “Word of Christ dwell in [me] richly” more than the pain that overwhelmed me physically (Colossians 3:16).

Dark times can cloud our vision. Sometimes hope is eclipsed by temporary trials. But for those who have been saved by grace through faith in our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, “suffering produces endurance”, “endurance produces character”, “character produces hope”, and “hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us” (Romans 5:3-5). My hope remains because it is not fickle, moveable, earthly hope; my hope is a person. My hope’s name is Jesus. And I can cast “all [my] anxieties on Him, because He cares for [me]” (1 Peter 5:7).

One of the clearest evidences of God’s goodness is that He has given us His Word — not only to reveal Himself, but to renew our minds, anchor our hearts, and strengthen us in every season of life. In His mercy, God does not leave us to be shaped by the world around us, but transforms us through the renewal of our minds so that we can discern His will and walk in it (Romans 12:2). His Word brings comfort and life in the midst of affliction, reviving our hearts when they are weary (Psalm 119:50). When our minds are fixed on Him through the promises of Scripture, He surrounds us with perfect peace (Isaiah 26:3). Rather than letting anxiety consume us, He invites us to bring everything to Him in prayer, and as we dwell on what is true and good, His peace guards our hearts and minds in Christ (Philippians 4:6-8). In trials, His Word gives strength and courage, equipping us for every step of obedience (Joshua 1:8-9). Because Scripture is breathed out by God, it thoroughly equips us for every good work — not just in easy seasons, but especially when life is hard (2 Timothy 3:16-17). When we delight in His Word and meditate on it daily, we become like trees planted by water — stable, nourished, and fruitful no matter the conditions around us (Psalm 1:2-3). And as we not only hear His Word but live it out, we experience His blessing and see more clearly who He is (James 1:22-25). In spiritual battle, His Word is our sword (Ephesians 6:17), and even Jesus, in the wilderness of temptation, showed us that we do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God (Matthew 4:4).

Every verse is a testimony to His kindness — He has not left us in the dark, but has spoken light and truth to sustain us.

That night, when my body had failed me and there was no strength to attempt to battle for myself, God sustained me with His Word. It was a refreshing reminder of His goodness, goodness I learned of from His Word and experience anew through His Word again and again. Here are some examples of both song and Scripture playlists:

  • Song | “Lord from Sorrows Deep I Call (Psalm 42)”

I do not (we do not) write this seeking sympathy or trying to complain. I am thankful to have a God who does not leave me nor forsake me (Hebrews 13:5, Deuteronomy 31:6) but instead meets me in my darkness with His light (John 1:5, Psalm 18:28).

On the way to the hospital last Friday night, Kevin reminded me of Satan’s words to God when seeking to tear apart Job’s life to make him curse God (Job 1:8-12, 2:3-6). Now, I am far from Job, and I am not saying this is all some elaborate test of my faith. The consequences of the Fall on the world and within human bodies (death, decay, sickness, etc.) is enough. But if you think on Satan’s rationale for needing to hurt Job, his earthly logic seems sound:

9 Then Satan answered the Lord and said, “Does Job fear God for no reason? 10 Have you not put a hedge around him and his house and all that he has, on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land. 11 But stretch out your hand and touch all that he has, and he will curse you to your face.”

Job 1:9-11

and,

3 And the LORD said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job, that there is none like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, who fears God and turns away from evil? He still holds fast his integrity, although you incited me against him to destroy him without reason.” 4 Then Satan answered the Lord and said, “Skin for skin! All that a man has he will give for his life. 5 But stretch out your hand and touch his bone and his flesh, and he will curse you to your face.”

job 2:3-5

Kevin reminded me that Satan knew that by attacking Job’s health it could fundamentally affect how he lived and thought. So Satan was right — insomuch as the things of this earth being all that there are. His logic, at face value, was sound. However, what Satan discounted — what he always overlooks in his passion and sinful pride — is that the LORD is not of this world. The Creator of all that is, the King of kings and Lord of lords is not bound by the logic of a being He created because He Himself is Truth.

When He saves people, He fundamentally changes them from the inside out, making them new creations not religious converts (2 Corinthians 5:17). His change in those He saves is not a mere change of mind but truly a change from death to life, delivering them from “the domain of darkness” to the “kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins” (Colossians 1:13-14).

I am not Job. But I have been saved by grace through faith in Jesus (Ephesians 2:8-9). My faith has wavered at times these last two weeks, I have forgotten who and whose I am, but praise God when all else is stripped away and I find myself at rock bottom, Jesus is the Rock (Psalm 18:2, 1 Corinthians 10:4).

I have to remind myself that God is no more or less good if He chooses to heal me immediately and/or completely or if whatever purpose He allows this to go on. He is good because that is who He is.

God is good all the time.

And all the time God is good.

As difficult as this period is (and seems to continue to be), I can rejoice that in the midst of sickness and pain I have seen the goodness of God and can see more clearly the sweetness and beauty of Jesus’s return when He will dwell with His people, wiping away their last tears with His nail-scarred hand as well as wiping away death, mourning, crying, and pain (Revelation 21:3-4). All of those things have an expiration date that is set and sure.

The goodness of God has no expiration date.

We are thankful to have the opportunity to share with you and would appreciate your prayers. If anything has helped you, lifted your spirits, or helped you see the goodness of God in Christ, then I’m glad to be where I am. And I am learning to be content that whatever season I find myself in I am not alone for He is with me.

Thank you and God bless.