In Jesus whose birth we have celebrated, and whose "light" is the joy of Epiphany we see what can
be seen of the character and passion of God in a human life. And what do we see in the light of that
life?
• Compassion for the marginalized and disadvantaged people
• Healing mercy
• A passion for justice
• Stepping over cultural boundaries to relate to despised minorities
• Radical Inclusion of outsiders
• Peacemaking to the extent of loving enemies
• Love, love, love
Jesus collides with the religious and imperial bullies of his time (the Jewish and Roman aristocracy).
He predicts the destruction of the beloved temple in Jerusalem lamenting that is because "they do
not know the things that make for peace."
For this challenge of the oppressive status quo, Jesus is nailed to a cross. A horrifying public
execution as a sign to any one might dare to challenge there authority as the gods of this world.
If this Jesus story is a decisive revelation of the character and passion of God, then it's clear that
God wills the wellbeing of all of us and all creation. God will stop at nothing to set things right in this
world. God will confront and indict everything that gets in the way of God's intended shalom, justice,
peace, and redemption.
We can join the unfolding intention of God to love this world all the way into complete restoration to
paradise or we can selfishly resist. How are we doing as a congregation at manifesting the
character and passion of God as revealed in Jesus? How do we measure our success in
accomplishing His mission?
The leaders of Hope will very interested to hear what you think. Please be sure to respond to the
invitation this month to fill out the congregational assessment. This will help us when we listen for
the voice of the Holy Spirit in strategizing for the months and years ahead.
Bless you my brothers and sisters on the Way,
~ Pastor Steve
PASTOR STEVE'S NEW PHONE #: (952) 210-6180
