12/09/2024
Let’s Not Overlook Joseph of Nazareth
I asked my research assistant—a certain ChatGPT—what the most interesting facet of Joseph’s life might be. She shared a couple of things that didn’t make it into Sunday’s sermon but you might still find inspirational.
- Joe was a man of Quiet Faith:
Unlike Mary, Joseph does not speak a single recorded word in the Gospels. His actions—immediate and faithful responses to God’s commands—speak louder than words, highlighting the value of quiet, steadfast faith. - Joe’s Legacy of Influence shouldn’t be underestimated:
Joseph’s role as Jesus' earthly father likely influenced Jesus' human understanding of fatherhood, work, and faithfulness. Jesus' parables often reflect a deep respect for honest labor and familial love, which Joseph likely modeled.
Why This Matters:
Joseph's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of trusting God even when circumstances seem incomprehensible. His willingness to set aside his own plans and reputation to follow God’s will makes him a model of humility, courage, and faith in action.
In a time when qualifications for important leadership positions seem to have a lot more to do with financial wealth or how good you look on TV, it’s so reassuring that we have Joseph of Nazareth to look up to. May we all aspire to the virtues that God holds out to us in the earthly father of Jesus. May our actions speak louder than words, may we never overlook the influence we have on those around us, and may each of us hold dear the value of quiet, steadfast faith.
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Let’s Not Overlook Joseph of Nazareth
I asked my research assistant—a certain ChatGPT—what the most interesting facet of Joseph’s life might be. She shared a couple of things that didn’t make it into Sunday’s sermon but you might still find inspirational...
Key Takeaway from Sunday
If I had to identify a specific take away from
Sunday’s sermon it would probably be this:
The Rest of the Story
I mentioned Russell Conwell in Sunday’s message. He was a famous preacher, educator, and lecturer. His sermon/lecture “Acres of Diamonds” was turned into a book and sold rather well. I used Conwell’s illustrations to talk about sharing the good news of Jesus with those closest to us first—family, friends, coworkers, and church family. The wider world is our ultimate aim, but until you invest in the people God has already put in your life, you are unlikely to have much success.
No One Said It Would be Easy
To love Jesus first is to learn to love all the other people in our lives with greater intensity and less selfishness
What’s Saved Is Often Lost
Here’s the benediction we didn’t have time for yesterday (Sunday, November 3). It’s one of my favorite quotations (portions of a newspaper column). I hope you find it as inspiring as I have
Leftovers Continued…
It’s not just the fact that God is un-impressed by our leftovers, it actually goes deeper than that. In a sense, Jesus is passionately and purposely opposed to anything leftover. To be a follower of Jesus Christ is to work diligently to make sure that in the end nothing at all is left over.
Less Stuff and Fewer Wants
Here’s a point I left off Sunday’s sermon due to time and length. In dealing with an Entitled mindset it is very helpful if you can Reduce Materialism and Consumerism.