Anchoring Point

You may wonder if the Christmas story could even be told without a stable; with no manger, no Joseph, no Mary, no Bethlehem, no shepherds, angels, and wisemen? What would the Christmas story be without these familiar features and personalities that make the story charming and sentimental? How many of you, when going through some level of suffering, confide in a close friend or acquaintance and receive this wonderful piece of advice: just trust God more? If you've ever said this to someone, please don't ever do it again. At least, not until you know what you're saying. I know where you're coming from and your heart behind it, but let's be real. How do you do that, and why doesn't it seem to fix any problems?

Jesus entrusted himself to the Father when he suffered, when he was insulted and when he was threatened. Why? Because he knew the Father.

His anchor was his relationship with the Father.

Let me ask you a question: what is your initial response to suffering? Want to know mine? My inclination is to numb whatever pain I am feeling. Let me ask you something else: what is your past or current situation that seems saturated with pain? Do you want to learn what Jesus meant when he said "my yoke is easy and my burden is light" (Matt. 11:30)? Do you want to learn how to pray prayers like Psalm 13 in the midst of the most painful days of your life? Maybe you're not "suffering" right now, but following Jesus means that it's almost assured. Come learn, no matter where you are.

See you this weekend!