Preacher Paul's Blogs

  This Sunday, November 15, our sermon, “Judy, Judy, Judy, Judy, Judy!” , takes us back to a memorable episode of The Andy Griffith Show , when Goober Pyle attempted his famous impression of Cary Grant. Goober had studied the actor carefully, but his imitation left much to be desired! In Ephesians 5:1–2, the Apostle Paul calls us to be imitators of God, living in love as Jesus Christ loved us. We are reminded that following Christ means more than knowing Scripture, attending worship, or quoting the words of Jesus. It means allowing God's love, compassion, mercy, and forgiveness to shape how we live and treat others. We will never imitate Christ perfectly, but God's grace continues to guide us as we grow in faith.  As you reflect on this week's Scripture, consider these questions:  Do I merely quote Jesus Christ, or do I imitate him?  If someone knew Jesus only through my words and actions, what kind of Jesus would they come to know?

  This Sunday, we will turn to John 12:20–21 and consider five simple words spoken by some Greeks who came to Jerusalem: “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” Their request raises an important question for us today. After years of attending worship, hearing sermons, and practicing our faith, are we still actively looking for Jesus? Sometimes we become so accustomed to our religious routines that we overlook the presence of Christ in the everyday moments of life. We may discover glimpses of Jesus in the compassion, forgiveness, kindness, and grace shown to us by others. But our Scripture also challenges us to consider something more: as followers of Christ, we are called not only to seek Jesus but also to help others see Jesus through the way we live. Our witness does not end when Sunday worship concludes; it continues wherever life takes us.  As you prepare for worship this Sunday, I invite you to consider two questions:  Where have you seen Jesus in the lives of others recently?...