Running to Finish | Sep. 23rd

" let us also lay aside every weight, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, "

Hebrews 12:1

There is a race set before us, beloved. One that every Christian must consider. We cannot enter this race unless we have been placed there by Christ Himself. Once we enter this race, we must run according to His will.

Christ is the reward and the one we are striving for. Just as an Olympian runs for the glory of their country, we should have the same desire. We compete as one who does not want to bring reproach to ourselves or shame to the Kingdom of God.

So we endure in the race. We are pressing forward as we lay aside anything that would embed our progress. The runner goes to great lengths to ensure nothing takes away from them completing or hindering them during the race. This requires intentional discipline and wise choices.

Let us consider the race set before us today. Choose to run in the race with God's power and godliness. Pressing towards the high calling in Christ with your eyes fixed on the eternal reward.

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Wight

Clean the Garage | Sep. 20th

"Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me."

Psalm 51:10

It is amazing how a garage, a basement, a spare closet, and a drawer can slowly become cluttered over time.

Things have a way of piling up. Items given as gifts or purchased but never used are put in storage. Other items are collected but soon forgotten. Soon, we realize we must purge the basement, clean out the junk drawer, and clean the garage so that things can be made right.

The heart also needs cleaning. This cannot be done by the work of our hands; only the Holy Spirit can truly clean the heart and renew the spirit within a life.

Our responsibility is to recognize the need, to humble ourselves beneath the mighty hand of God, and to acknowledge our need for His help. Beloved, this need will arise throughout our lives. It is a part of sanctification and the work of God's Spirit within the heart of His people.

Let us seek the Holy Spirit's help in this area. He will finish the work God has started in us.

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Wight

Jesus Suffered | Sep. 19th

"Christ also suffered for you."

1 Peter 2:21

Beloved, if you are suffering today, be not dismayed. The Lord has bared our iniquity and sorrows. The Lord suffered for us, and His love for us is steadfast. He will not permit you to endure alone.

God has promised to comfort His people, to supply mercy for each new day. His grace will prove to be sufficient amid sorrow and pain. The peace He provides is unexplainable at times. Though the burden is heavy, there is deep reassurance of God's love for us when we look to the cross and think about how much our Savior endured for us.

Look to the Lord amid your tears and recall the tears of Christ the Redeemer in the garden. Recall how He was willing to take the cup we could not bear. Christ suffered because He loves you, and nothing can separate you from Him.

In Christ Alone,

Pastor Wight