‘Coming to Our Senses’ Is Lenten Sermon Theme
The pastors are hoping the congregation will come to its senses during Lent. Beginning Sunday, February 18, pastors will use our five senses of sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste to reflect on themes of Lent as we prepare for Palm Sunday and Easter. (The series was inspired by and adapted from Sensing the Gospel: A Five-Part Series of Meditations for Lent.)
Themes and speakers are:
Look—Pastor Don—February 18
Possible Texts: Mark 8:22-25; 1 Corinthians 13:12; John 20:24-29; Isaiah 55:8-9
We can’t always see clearly how God is at work in the world, but God reveals himself to us through the crucified and resurrected Jesus. Those who believe even when they can’t see are blessed.
Taste—Pastor Misty—February 25
Possible Texts: Luke 22:7-20; Psalm 34:4-8; 1 Peter 2:2-3
Bread and wine symbolize Christ’s broken body and shed blood and enable us to “taste and see that the Lord is good.” When Jesus turned water into wine, the guests recognized he saved the best for last.
Smell—Don—March 3
Possible Texts: Matthew 26:6-13, Mark 14:3-9, Luke 7:36-50; John 12:1-8; 2 Corinthians 2:14-16
The woman who anointed the feet of Jesus with expensive perfume showed incredible devotion and helped prepare Jesus for his burial. Our faithful witness is a sweet fragrance that pleases God.
Touch—Misty—March 10
Possible Texts: Luke 7:11-17; Revelation 21:3-4; (other texts where Jesus healed by touch)
The touch of Jesus healed, comforted, and even brought people back to life, foreshadowing his own resurrection. One day all suffering will end, and God will wipe every tear from our eyes.
Listen—Misty—March 17
Possible Texts: Matthew 11:11-24; Romans 10:11-17
Faith comes by hearing the message, but not all who hear believe. “Whoever has ears, let them hear” and repent.
During Holy Week, Pastor Don will preach on Palm Sunday and Easter (March 24 & 31), and the congregation will observe love feast on Maundy Thursday, March 28.
Marriage Enrichment Event Planned for February 17
Jorge Ferreras and his wife, Julia Hernandez, will lead a marriage enrichment event for Spanish speakers in the Worship & Event Center on Saturday, February 17, at 5:00 p.m. The theme, “New Beginning,” is intended to appeal especially to newlyweds and unbelievers or new believers.
“We are expecting 25 couples,” says Pastor Selma Gamboa, “with the intention to use it as a form of evangelism and outreach.” The evening will include a light snack. Childcare will not be provided.
“We were hoping and praying [this year] to invite everyone,” says Selma, “but due to interpretation issues we will again just have it for the Hispanic community.”