The message of Easter is a message of great news! We are taken from our natural state of being dust in the dirt, to filled with the Spirit of God and destined for glory. The resurrection of Jesus is a flamboyant blast of the divine into earth - and central to our understanding of the power and glory of God.
Two weeks ago we considered the dust which settles onto and into us. This week we think about the imagery of the dust that clings to our feet. We need to follow Jesus’ instruction to “shake the dust from our feet.”
Life is rarely a straight journey. Sometimes we head in the wrong direction and end up where we should not be. How we handle these situations is critically important.
Muck and filth are clearly bad - but a little dust never hurt anyone right? It is good to consider the world around us and the subtle impact it can have on our spiritual life.
Our flesh is made from dirt, but our spirit is a gift of God. Don’t get trapped in thinking you are “dirty” when really you are divine. Dave Ewert preaching.
It is amazing what God can do with a pile of dust. And if God can do that, what else is God able to do? Jashton Gieser preaching.
The common phrase of ashes to ashes, and dust to dust is descriptive of our bodily reality - but not our spiritual one. There is hope for so much more!
Jesus doesn’t say believe in me, he never says to have faith in him, he invites people to follow him. What does this mean and how do we do it?
The learning we are to do goes way beyond what kids get at Sunday School. Jesus was referred to at Teacher by seekers and followers alike. One reason learning so important is because truth is central to Christianity.
Getting the most out of life requires effort and perseverance. It is worth it, and one the things followers of Jesus are promised is Joy! How does it happen?
We believe we are called to Worship God. That means much more than singing songs together, or having a worship service. The understanding of what God wants from you it much deeper and life changing!
What is the purpose of church? There are aspects of church which we cannot get away from. If you truly follow Jesus, then you are bound to other believers. This can be a challenge, but in God’s design it is a great blessing. At ERC we are not just a gathering, but we are a community.
In April of 2020 we thought it was just a few weeks of disruption. At that point the personal and global impact of a fast spreading virus was just starting to be understood. This message was first preached at ERC then, and it is still an important message for today.
It can be hard to let go of the past and find a better way forward. Part of the journey - a critical part - if forgiveness.
In January, when the ground is frozen, it is hard to imagine that this frozen land could produce delicious apples, sweet corn, and beautiful strawberries. And yet, Lord willing, in another season things will be very different. There are also times of harvest in the Kingdom of God - how do we get ready?
We makes all sorts of plans - and then life happens. What is a biblical way to prepare for what is ahead? It starts with answering the question, What is your purpose.
Who are you as you live in this world as an heir to the King?
