Power in Suffering

Do you like football?  The NFL used to have a marketing slogan which said: “Feel the Power!”  The idea is that the power of clashing teams, great players, competitive games, and loud cheering crowds is palpable.  It is indeed exciting.  I love watching a great football game, especially when the Packers or Chiefs are playing.  I have felt the power!  :)

Power as defined in today’s society usually means things like muscle, money, military might, big nations, strong leadership, horsepower, wattage, megabits per second, or social media influence.  In our culture, power means dominance, winning, being on top.  So isn’t it interesting that Jesus modeled none of those things?  Isn’t it interesting that Jesus tells us to put others first, place ourselves last, be humble, do not seek selfish gain or acclaim?  Yet, Jesus is often considered to be the most powerful person ever?!

Could it be that God defines power and greatness in ways that clash with cultural norms and values?  This Sunday, we continue our Journey to the Cross sermon series with a message entitled, “God on a Cross,” based on Mark 15:16-32.  Together, we’ll explore the mysterious ways God moves to accomplish His will.  Somehow in dying, Jesus becomes the suffering servant of God who ends up claiming all victory and glory in the end.  What do we learn from this God on a cross?  How does the cross change us? 

Traditional worship begins at 9:00 AM and contemporary worship begins at 10:45 AM as we resume our regular two-service schedule this Sunday, March 10.  Both services feature the same biblical message, heart-felt worship, welcoming friends, and the healing power of the Holy Spirit in our midst.  Nursery and Busy Bags are available for kids.  Refreshments will be served in our Fellowship Hall between services.  Visitors are expected.  Be sure to set your clock one hour ahead Saturday night.  Come, meet God with us Sunday morning!