Exodus 3:1-15 ; Romans 12:9-21 ; Matthew 16:21-28 “Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer.” That’s what Paul told the church in Rome during the time of its formation. During that time the church opposed the state of Rome, and later it would become the religion of the state of Rome. That is not to disparage the faith of our Roman Catholic siblings. Rather it is to say how remarkable the work of God can be when we follow these words, “Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer.” There are, of course, inherent dangers when the church becomes the state religion, but that’s another sermon for another day. Also, most of us in the Reformed tradition of faith would probably agree that it does not usually end well for Jesus when religion and the state collude. We can talk about that later if you like, but right now I want to stay focused on Paul’s advice to “Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, and persevere in prayer.” Our hope is grounded in the ...
Sermons, random thoughts, and general musings are what you will find here. Sometimes a faithful question may appear, for faith is not an end but rather a beginning, and it is in seeking that we find.