Sermon Notes: A Celebration of Love: Unpacking the Trinity

Introduction

We gather to celebrate the very heart of our faith: the mystery of God as one being in three persons – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. It's a truth that might leave our minds a little bewildered, but fills our hearts with awe and wonder.

The Three Faces of Love

Imagine this – true love can't exist in a vacuum. It takes two, doesn't it? Well, God, who is perfect love itself, isn't confined by such limitations. He exists eternally in a perfect relationship of love: the Father, who loves unconditionally, the Son, who embodies that love, and the Holy Spirit, the very essence of that love that binds them together.

A Reflection for Our Lives

This beautiful mystery of the Trinity teaches us so much about how we should live. We see a call to:

Build strong communities: Just like the Creator, the Redeemer and the Sustainer exist in perfect fellowship, we are called to build strong churches and communities where we support one another and share God's love.

Love sacrificially: The Trinity shows us love that isn't about getting something back, but about giving of ourselves for others. Just like Jesus sacrificed himself for us.

Embrace our differences: Even though the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are distinct, they are united. We too can celebrate our differences and find strength in working together as a church family.

The Story of Doubting Thomas

Remember the story of Thomas, the doubting disciple? (John 20:19-31) After Jesus' resurrection, the others saw him, but Thomas wasn't there. He struggled with doubt. But Jesus, in his infinite love and understanding, appeared to Thomas again, offering not judgment, but reassurance. This story reminds us:

It's okay to have doubts. We're all human, and sometimes faith can be a struggle.

God's love is always there. Just like Jesus came back for Thomas, God will come back for us, meeting us where we are in our doubts and fears.

Faith is a journey. We don't have to have all the answers, but we can choose to walk with Jesus, one step at a time.

Finding Strength in Each Other

Think about it - when we're feeling lost or alone, our faith can weaken. But when we come together as a church family, surrounded by love and support, our faith grows stronger. We are each other's companions on this journey of faith.

Conclusion

So, let us go forth from this service, inspired by the love of the Trinity. Let us build strong communities, love one another selflessly, and embrace the beautiful tapestry of God's creation. May the love of the Creator, the grace of the Redeemer, and the fellowship of the Sustainer be with you always. Amen.

Sermon Notes: Mother's Day - Finding Peace in the Promise

 

Introduction

Many of us know the feeling of a child's heart pounding with fear. Perhaps you were once separated from a loved one, lost in a crowded store, or faced a dark and unfamiliar place. Today, I want to share a story from my own childhood... In that moment of fear, my mother's voice was a beacon of hope. Her arrival meant safety and love. Today, we'll explore how Jesus, our loving shepherd, offers the same comfort and security in the storms of life.

Body

The Disciples' Anxious Hearts (John 14:1)

Imagine yourselves gathered with Jesus in the Upper Room. The air is thick with tension. Jesus has spoken of his departure, and the disciples are filled with confusion and fear. They don't understand what lies ahead.

Jesus' Gentle Reassurance (John 14:1)

In the midst of their anxiety, Jesus speaks words of comfort: "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in me." (John 14:1).  Jesus doesn't dismiss their worries, but offers a path to peace.

Three Gifts to Calm Our Anxious Hearts

The Gift of Unwavering Faith (John 14:1):  Jesus reminds us to place our trust in God, even when we can't see the way forward. Faith is believing in God's unseen presence, God's love, and plan for our lives.

The Gift of a Hopeful Future (John 14:2):  Jesus assures us, "In my Father's house are many dwelling places. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?" (John 14:2).  This life may have its challenges, but we have the promise of eternal life with Christ in a place of peace and joy.

The Gift of Abiding in Jesus (John 14:3):  Jesus declares, "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, so that where I am, there you may be also." (John 14:3).  Our ultimate comfort lies not just in a future heaven, but in a present relationship with Jesus. He is our constant companion, our source of strength, and our hope for eternity.

Jesus: Our True Dwelling Place

The Psalmist reminds us, "The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters" (Psalm 23:1-2).  Just as a shepherd provides for his flock, Jesus cares for our every need. He is our refuge, our haven of peace.

Conclusion

The hymn "Where Jesus Is, 'Tis Heaven" beautifully captures this truth: "No matter where on earth we dwell / On mountain top or in the dell / In cottage or in mansion fair / Where Jesus is 'tis heaven there." (Charles J. Butler's Hymn "Where Jesus Is, 'Tis Heaven").

When anxieties and fears threaten to overwhelm us, let us remember Jesus' promise. He is with us always, and He has prepared a place for us.

Call to Action

Open your hearts to Jesus' love and allow Him to be your source of strength and peace. Let us walk through life together, trusting in His presence and the hope He offers.