May 3: The Fourth Sunday of Easter
Jesus said to some Jews who challenged his claims and were confident in themselves, “Your father Abraham rejoiced that he would see my day. He saw it and was glad.” –John 8:56
Then we look over at Hebrews 11:8-10, “By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going. By faith he went to live in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, heirs with him of the same promise. For he was looking forward to the city that has foundations, whose designer and builder is God.”
There’s more about Abraham looking forward with faith too, but Jesus makes it clear that Abraham was really looking for him and lived that way. Not only did Abraham see Jesus, but it constituted his gladness.
Perhaps this is why just a few verses later in Hebrews 11:16 we are told, “Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city.” Wow! God, ashamed? That’s not everyday language! But he isn’t. He isn’t ashamed to be called the God of all those who forsake their merits and personal confidences and ability in this world, and abide instead in the word of Christ. That’s the gospel.
Come hear it preached and enacted in the Supper this Sunday as we continue reveling in his resurrection.
The related hymns we’ll sing are:
How Firm a Foundation
Christ is Alive!
Fairest Lord Jesus
Our third community lunch is this Sunday following the worship service. For more information, please use the contact us page.
Sunday school for children and adults (on Reformed eschatology) is up and running! Coffee and other treats are served at 9:15, teaching begins at 9:30, and we break to get ready for worship at 10:15.