Look to Jesus

It is possible to gather information about Jesus while keeping our picture of Him largely unchanged. The year begins with a different hope: that looking to the Son through Scripture will let His character reshape ours. The Gospels become a place to listen, ask and be surprised.

Beyond collecting information

Pastor Daniel’s opening message reflects on the danger of gathering sermon material without reaching Christ Himself. Hebrews 1 directs attention to God speaking through the Son; 2 Corinthians 3 turns toward the Spirit’s work in people whose lives increasingly reflect Him.

The question is not only what I have learned, but whom my life is learning to resemble. This gives study a purpose beyond having an answer ready. It invites us to hear the Son and remain open to what He reveals about us.

Let the Gospel correct the picture

Elder Josue’s introduction to Mark notices that the disciples can witness miracles and name the Messiah while still resisting the meaning of His suffering. A correct title does not yet mean they have understood the person and path before them.

His invitation to read the whole Gospel with notes and questions gives this exploration a practice. Instead of selecting only the passages that confirm our expectations, we can allow the story to challenge what we think Jesus must be like.