The Way of the Cross

"...the rich young ruler is one of the last few specific people Jesus met on his way to Jerusalem.  As he left Ephraim where he had fled with his disciples to avoid the attacks of the priests, he began to make his way to Jerusalem.  On that journey toward the cross, the Scriptures record only five specific people interactions besides his disciples, Lazarus’ family, and the general crowds. 

When you realize these people met Jesus on his way to the cross, their stories somehow mean more.  In them I see that Jesus places emphasis on

• Healing the unclean
• Child-like humility and faith
• Full surrender and Abandonment
• Healing those who cannot see
• Rescuing the most despised

And all of these share the message of redemption, restoration, and relationship with God.  Those are powerful messages on the way to the cross.  If you also study the parables and teachings of Jesus in these final weeks, you also discover that some of the most important recorded teachings of Jesus were shared during this time.  In the next few weeks we will look at some of them.

However, today, I felt my heart drawn to the story of the rich young ruler who was called to follow the way of the cross."

NO OTHER GODS

Listen as Pastor Rick candidly and simply discusses the importance of the first commandment and shares how important that commandment is today!

More than Lip Service

According to the Oxford Dictionaries online, "lip service" means to "express approval of or support for (something) insincerely or without taking any significant action."  This idea deserves some consideration as I prepare to share a new message Sunday Morning: "Embracing the Cross."

Around the world, hundreds of thousands - maybe more - put their lives on the line for their belief in a Savior Who died for their sins.  Daily they live in danger, fear, poverty, oppression, and slavery without renouncing The Christ of Calvary.  They have so little, yet they willingly trust Him Who gave so much.

Meanwhile, we Christians of the Western Hemisphere rarely suffer persecution of any kind other than a sneer.  We live in plenty and we - who have so much - consider very little what Christ has given.  We live in our stick and brick mansions with little regard for the mansion Christ promised to prepare.  We drive our late model cars dreaming of better ones with no thought of the trip we will someday make across the universe to the judgment hall of God.  We fill the churches across our land, dressed in our finest name brands and think not whether we have been given a wedding garment for the marriage supper of the Lamb.  We pay lip service to the cross of Christ and seek the emotional euphoria of worship and never actually stoop to feel the weight of splintered blood-stained wood gouging our shoulders.

How about it?  Are you doing more than paying mere lip service to the cross of Christ?  Join us at Hampton Roads Bible Methodist Church this weekend to learn more about following Him for real.