A Crowd Who Condemns

As we enter the cold, dark months of winter, I’m reminded of the hours of darkness Jesus entered into as he was arrested and tried, leading to his crucifixion. Following the betrayal of Judas and the denial of Peter, the gospel of Luke describes the mistreatment Jesus endured. He was alone, humiliated, and falsely accused. And yet, Luke 23 tells us that Jesus speaks no deceit and offers no retaliation. Even though the religious leaders twist justice and Herod treats him with contempt, the pagan Roman governor of Judea finds Jesus to be innocent. Luke uncovers a tragic miscarriage of justice. But with justice violated, redemption can now be fulfilled. Even in the face of cruelty and corruption, Jesus walks the path chosen before the foundation of the world, bearing sin through His silence, His innocence, and His willing submission to the Father. As we consider Advent this time of year, it is good and timely for us to consider the reason Christ entered into the world to take on human form and bear our sin. As the darkness closes in and the cold temperatures increase, let the warmth of Christ’s love and the light of God’s glory move you to gratitude, repentance, and worship. Like your Savior, trust God when circumstances feel unjust, resist the impulse to retaliate when you feel wronged, and hold fast to obedience even when doing so brings misunderstanding or hardship. Jesus’ endurance not only shapes our response to trials, but it secures our salvation—calling us to be faithful, gracious, and anchored to the will of God. –Pastor Nate

Sunday at Liberty

9AM: Bible Training Hour–The Spirits of this World: Satan

10AM: Pastor Nate–A Crowd Who Condemns–Luke 22:66-23:25 (sermon notes)

3:30PM: Flagstone Service