A Catechism of Comfort
The welcome of Jesus extends to all - from for the weary and wondering, to the wounded and wandering!
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
Question: Would Jesus ever welcome a person like me?
Answer: Jesus welcomes us without exception. His arms are open wide. Notice he says, “come unto me…all.” He doesn’t say, “come unto me…some.” Are you among the “all” of this world? Then his invitation is for you. His arms are wide open. There is no exception to all.
Question: What if my burdens are too overwhelming?
Answer: There is no burden Jesus cannot bear on our behalf. He gladly invites anyone who has any burden. He is the Friend of Sinners to all who carry the burden of guilt. He is the Faithful One to all who carry the burden of failure. He is the Man of Sorrow to all who carry the burden of grief. Whatever burden we carry, He welcomes us.
Question: But what if I don’t have anything to offer him?
Answer: Jesus has everything to offer us. He does not invite us to fill something lacking in himself. He is full of life and love and has everything to offer us. He deals with us, not according to what we can give, but according to His riches in mercy. Notice he says, “I will give you rest.” We are needy, and he is happy and free to fill our joy.
So, to all who are weary and need rest, To all who mourn and long for comfort, To all who feel worthless and wonder if God cares, To all who fail and desire strength, To all who sin and need a Savior, This church opens wide her doors with a welcome from Jesus Christ, the Ally of his enemies, the Defender of the guilty, the Justifier of the inexcusable, the Friend of sinners. Welcome!
THIS WEEK AT IMMANUEL
GOOD FRIDAY & EASTER - Join us at Immanuel for Easter weekend.
Good Friday Holy Communion – April 18 at 6PM.
Easter Sunday Services – April 20 at 9AM & 10:45AM.
Invite a friend — all are welcome!