Sermon Introduction –
We know the beginning and the end of our faith journey. The beginning was the death and resurrection of Jesus, and the end is our passing or His second coming. The two most important days—the day we were born and the day we learned why God gave us our gifts and our calling to use them in his name. No matter how long that takes, one thing is sure: God loves us, and we have the blessed assurance it is going to be more than alright in the end. In the face of life’s challenges, even the disciples would ask, “Lord increase our faith!” That is why intentional faith development is a critical part of any vital church. We remain works in progress, shaped by the Holy Spirit, molded by God, and nurtured in fellowship with our fellow brothers and sisters in the family of God. Yes, we can be a Christian alone, but why would we want to be? It is in fellowship with other believers that God teaches us lessons that we need to learn. What are God’s favorite family lessons he has taught you on your journey of faith? Just know that in the end, God calls us to bloom where we are planted, to love as he has loved, to serve in his name, and to give testimony to the great gift of his amazing grace. May it be so with us here at New Hope Lutheran Church!
Introduction to this week’s readings –
God promises Jeremiah that a “new covenant” will be made in the future: a covenant that will allow all the people to know God by heart. The church sees this promise fulfilled in Christ, who draws all people to himself when he is lifted up on the cross. Our baptismal covenant draws us to God’s heart through Christ and draws God’s love and truth into our hearts. We join together in worship, sharing in word, song, and meal, and leave strengthened to share God’s love with all the world.
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