Howard Reiter gave the Communion meditation on Sunday’s Colony Christian Church.
At the time of Jesus’ birth, the Jews had reached the promised land long ago, but had lost their spiritual compass.
Tyranny, slavery, injustice and poverty dwelt among them. And they didn’t recognize the Messiah when he came. It was the shepherds and wise men that God announced Jesus’ birth to.
Pastor Chase Riebel gave the sermon “The Christmas Treasure Hunt.” If you are going to look for a treasure, there are three questions to consider: 1. What is the treasure? 2. Is it worth looking for? 3. Who will find it? Could it be me? The angels told the shepherds that they brought them “good news of great joy.” At the time of Jesus’ birth, Caesar claimed to be the good news. Caesar’s was a false kingdom that didn’t offer peace and blessings for all. We need to be on guard so that we aren’t deceived into trading in the true savior for a quick and simple fix, into following false gods.
The true good news, the Kingdom of God, offers healing, compassion, forgiveness, and everlasting life to those who seek it.
God’s Kingdom is worth finding. When God lives inside of you, you are the living good news.
Men’s Bible study, 7 a.m. Tuesdays in the church basement. Women’s Bible study, 8:30 a.m. Tuesdays at the parsonage. The Mary & Martha’s life group, 6 p.m. Tuesdays at the parsonage. Men on Fire life group, second Friday of the month. Good News is at 3:30 p.m. Wednesdays at the church. Youth group for middle and high school students 6 p.m. Wednesdays; adult Bible study at the parsonage at 7 p.m.
