Hello Gloria Dei,
Over the past seven weeks we’ve been reading and preaching through the gospel of Matthew. This coming weekend is our final week in this series. If you have time, I invite you to read Matthew chapter 25. In it we find three distinct segments.
First is the Parable of the Ten Bridesmaids. Jesus tells us to be alert, awake, and ready to meet the bridegroom when he comes. In other words, to “Live Expectantly.”
Second is the Parable of the Talents. Jesus tells us to make use of the gifts he has given us for the sake of the kingdom and not to bury them. In so doing we are surprised by joy. In other words, to “Live Responsibly and Joyfully.”
Third is the Judgment of the Nations. This is the text I will use for preaching this weekend. Jesus tells of the last judgment and illustrates using Sheep and Goats. This scene sometimes causes us to squirm a bit. What if I’m a goat and not a sheep? What if I haven’t done enough of what Jesus teaches in this episode, like feeding the hungry and giving water to the thirsty?
Yet, as you read this last section, picture Jesus as the judge. And then remember that Jesus loves you enough to die for you. Remember too, that he claims you as his own, a lamb of his flock. It is in realizing that we are indeed sheep under the care and guidance of our Good Shepherd that we are set free to live as Jesus prescribes. In other words, to “Live Compassionately.”
Live Expectantly. Live Responsibly and Joyfully. Live Compassionately. I love this chapter. Take time to read Matthew 25 and ponder what Jesus is saying to you.
See you in worship,
Pastor Tim