In this sermon, Pastor Jeremy Eastman explores the journey of Jesus towards redemption, emphasizing the importance of being commissioned to spread the Gospel while also nurturing a deep relationship with God through worship and presence. He highlights the balance between serving and sitting in God's presence, encouraging believers to actively participate in their faith while remaining anchored in worship and prayer.
In this sermon, Pastor Jeremy Eastman continues the theme of redemption as he explores the journey of Jesus leading up to Easter Sunday. He emphasizes the importance of understanding our commission as believers while also nurturing our relationship with God through worship and presence.
Pastor Eastman begins by reflecting on the last month of Jesus' life, particularly focusing on Luke 9 and 10. He describes how Jesus resolutely set his face towards Jerusalem, undeterred by distractions. Despite the challenges ahead, Jesus continued to touch lives and fulfill his purpose. This determination serves as a model for Christians today, reminding us to stay focused on our calling.
In Luke 10:1-16, Jesus appoints 72 others and sends them out in pairs to prepare the way for his arrival in various towns. This act of sending underscores the importance of community and support in our mission. Pastor Eastman emphasizes that we are not alone in our journey; we are called to work together in spreading the Gospel.
Jesus instructs the 72 to pray earnestly for laborers, highlighting the urgency of the mission. The message they carry is that the kingdom of God has come near. Pastor Eastman encourages believers to actively participate in this mission, reminding us that every person we encounter has a soul that belongs to God.
As the sermon progresses, Pastor Eastman discusses the importance of having a heart filled with joy, revelation, and compassion. He likens our spiritual lives to a pond that requires both an inlet and an outlet to thrive. We must receive fresh revelation from God while also pouring out into the lives of others.
In Luke 10:38-42, the story of Mary and Martha illustrates the need to balance service with worship. Martha is busy serving, while Mary sits at Jesus' feet, soaking in his presence. Jesus gently reminds Martha that Mary has chosen the better part, emphasizing that our activities must flow from a place of intimacy with God.
Pastor Eastman concludes by stressing the rhythm of our faith journey: we are called to go out and serve, but we must also return to sit in God's presence. This balance is crucial for sustaining our spiritual lives. He encourages believers to pray for their communities and to be intentional about carrying the peace of God into every situation.
In summary, the road to redemption is not just about our mission to spread the Gospel; it is also about nurturing our relationship with God through worship and prayer. As we embrace our commission, let us remain anchored in his presence, allowing our ministry to flow from a place of intimacy with Him. The journey is both a sending and a sitting, a call to action and a call to rest in His love.
Let us walk this road together, trusting in God's provision and proclaiming the kingdom of God wherever we go.
