As I contemplated on what to write for this episode of “Your Pastor Speaks” I asked myself what is the most important message could be that I can share with you the reader. I wrote several papers, from Hospice Care to Pontificating about the world and the challenges we face.
I took a break as it seemed to me that the correct message was not coming to me. Then, while breaking, it hit me! The words that need to be heard are not my own, but those of many who have gone before me and hopefully of those who will follow in times to come. These are not very profound, and yet are the most profound of anyone who seeks the truth of God’s grace. Simply put, Jesus loves you!
Because this man Jesus loves you and me, he gave of himself to die on a cross not for sins or broken laws he committed, but because He chose to die for each of us, yes, over 2,000 years ago, he, Jesus of Nazareth chose to die that we might live.
As I reflected further, I figured I could theologize even more using all kinds of arguments from the Holy Bible that support the simple point just written. And again, I thought – why do I need to do this when the Holy Bible has enlightened us with the words that need to be said.
It is another simple and quite memorable chapter of the Bible. It often needs repeated as we seek to trust and follow him who gave to us the man who would die on a cross, be raised from the dead, and sit at the right hand of the heavenly Father. All for us!
Here are words of assurance from the 23rd Psalm
The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.
He makes me to lie down in green pastures,
He leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul.
He leads me down paths of righteousness for His namesake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil, for you art with me;
Your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life,
And I shall dwell in the house of the Lord, forever.
Jesus Love’s you, this I know, for the Holy Bible tells me so.
Amen.
