don't worry

If we are storing up our treasures in heaven, and keeping our focus on God and his kingdom, then it is much easier to not worry. At least, that's the theory.

Jesus knows that we have a bit of a problem with stressing out, so he repeats this principle 6 different ways, in hopes that we will at least begin to get it. For the men, Jesus points out the birds. For the women, he points out the flowers. For the health-conscious, he talks about extending life.

The answer is still found in seeking the Kingdom of God, not as a means to be wealthy and healthy, but as the way to store up treasures in heaven.

prayerfully this message will help us keep our proper focus and glorify God.

Pastor Wayne

Where are you looking

Have you been keeping yourself to a higher standard than others, or are you continually looking to others. The next section of Jesus's sermon deals with where we look to for our rewards. If we give, and pray, and fast so that others will know how special and spiritual we are, then that is all the reward that we will receive. Are we seeking a response from people, or are we seeking God?

If we are truly seeking God, then the response of people can get in the way. Jesus here is confronting us on our pursuits and what we treasure more.

If your eye and your focus is good, then your whole body will be filled with light, but if your eyes are focused on people, then everything will end up dark.

Keep Looking up,

Pastor Wayne

keeping your word

The next section of Jesus' sermon deals with keeping one's word.

Jesus begins with the illustration of divorcing one's wife (Unfortunately, this first part is not recorded). While this passage is usually considered separately from the next part, it is clear that the essence of marriage is a public covenant between a man and a woman. In our society, the only official requirements for the pastor is that 1) he asks if there is reason why this covenant is not possible, 2) Do the couple commit to each other ( I do's) and 3) the pronouncement of them as husband and wife. the rest of the ceremony is beautiful extras.

The essence of marriage is covenant - what God has joined together, let no man put assunder. divorce is the breaking of this vow on the part of the one seeking the divorce. Did you vow publicly before God, or did you not? Jesus then brings it a different way. Keep your vows to God. In fact, if you have to vow, then your word is questionable, and your light is shining poorly.

Of course, if we have to be perfect, then everyone else also needs to be perfect. Them first. They started it. We are not commanded to make sure that others keep their word, only that we keep ours, but that seems so wrong, so we invert what God requires of us.

Who's kingdom are we building? We need to be sure that we are people of our word, no matter what others do around us.

God bless,

Pastor Wayne

Salt and Light

After laying out what a Righteous person looks like in the beatitudes, Jesus then brings the message a bit closer to home by talking about our role in the world.

It is not enough that we are simply good, but that we should also have an impact on the world around us. Jesus first lays out the principle, then he gives some examples of what salt and light are not -- murder and adultery. If you participate in destroying another person or relationship, then you are the wrong kind of salty, and your light is hidden.

Does your light reflect God's glory, or are you simply background noise?

God Bless,

Pastor Wayne