Life This Side of Heaven

When the people were pleased to hear Jesus at the synagogue in Nazareth, He recognized that there was more to it than cheering on the local boy made good. There was a sense of entitlement.  They were thrilled He was doing great things on the road. But now, what about something for the home fans?  In other words, he owes us. Do ever find yourself feeling that way too?

John tell us that when Jesus read the familiar words from Isaiah the prophet at the synagogue in Nazareth, “All spoke well of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from His lips.”  And chances are good that when you and I have heard them read in church you may have smiled to hear these familiar words as well. However, it comes as a real joy to recognize who these people are to whom Jesus has brought this great prize.

When you sit in church, and hear the events and announcements that take place in the Scripture readings, do you ever find yourself not wanting to get your hopes up? God has announced His mercy, grace and forgiveness. But does it ever feel as if this may have been a one-time announcement for people in the past – but not for you?  When you hear Jesus announce the Good News, that your sins are forgiven, can be sure that this includes you today?

Have you ever told yourself, "I don't deserve to be happy!" Of course, that's true when we consider our sins and transgressions. But here's what makes this all the more reason to be happy. God’s mercy, this wonderful, and undeserved gift that God has given to us by faith – is the very best reason to be filled with joy.

One of those songs that’s often taught in Sunday School, and is a real hit with the kids, is a catchy little one called, “His Banner Over Me Is Love.” It's based on a verse from the Old Testament book, Song of Solomon. In English it almost sounds like we’ve been invited to the elegant reception after a wedding and there’s a place card on the table with our name on it...

John wants you and me to that Jesus' changing water into wine at the wedding in Cana was more than a miracle. In fact the word he uses to describe it is “a sign.” It points to something beyond itself. It calls for action.

At first, it may leave us scratching our heads and wondering why, for such a pivotal moment in our Savior's ministry, He did something that may sound unplanned, incidental or arbitrary. However, far from random, it’s more than fitting that the first miracle of our Savior was to provide an abundance of wine. The joyous news is that Christ has come and with Him the salvation God had promised.

On this day in Cana, a young couple came to be united in love with their whole life stretched out before them. And on this day, in their midst, was the One who had come to reunite us with God, so that through faith our eternal life now stretches out before us.

As Jerusalem lay in ruins it must have seemed, to those living exile, as the most desolate place on earth. There are times when you and I may wonder if God has deserted us and left us to face our struggles alone. There may be times, when in frustration, it feels as if God has turned His back on us and forsaken us. However, even though we certainly have deserved it, God assures His penitent people it's not true...

Isaiah has made an amazing announcement: “You will be a crown of splendor in the LORD’s hand, a royal diadem in the hand of your God.” However, as you look at your transgressions and sin, have you ever wondered if there has been a been a mix-up? Good News! God Himself assures you there's no mistake about it.