Brothers and Sisters,

It was enjoyable once again to gather with you as we worshipped God with adoration and praise this past Sunday.  There are few things better than the gathered church declaring truths about God in one voice.  These moments enhance my view of God and give me a deeper sense of his goodness.

As we gathered this past Sunday, Tim walked us through a terrific and yet sobering Psalm.  Psalm 51 is David’s confession and repentance for multiple sinful acts recorded in 2 Samuel 11-12.  Perhaps the most penetrating truth revealed when we look at David’s confession is his view of who has ultimately been offended.  “Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight” (Ps 51:4).  David is addressing God here and therefore acknowledges that his sin has ultimately offended the Holy God.  This is no “personal defeat” for David but rather a hideous wrong against God.  This is no “I will do better next time” sweep under the rug but rather a treacherous act that needs to be dealt with.  Sin is ugly preciously because it offends our Holy God.  We would do well to start here with sin for this would expose sin for what it is and drive us to depend on God’s sweet grace (Luke 7:41-50).  This mindset echoes throughout the scriptures where true repentance is recorded.  The parable of the prodigal son told by Jesus to illustrate our salvation is one of our greatest examples.  When the prodigal awakens to his sin he says, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you” (Luke 15:18).  In going to his father to repent his main concern is the offense he has caused against God!  Brothers and Sisters, might we strive to rightly view our sin in order to rightly depend on God’s grace!!

Sabbatical update

Continue to be in prayer for Pastor Chuck as he is away on sabbatical.  If you have not already seen and read this update, click here to hear more about his time away and how to pray for him.

Gospel Communities

One of the ways we are devoted to each other and live out all the one another‘s of scripture is through GC.  Summer would be a great time to visit a GC if you are not already involved.  Check out our current groups and find the one closest to you and make a point this summer to check it out.

 

Grace be with you,

Bryan Jerry