The Daily + Inclement Weather Updates
Good morning, Immanuel. Jesus is the Father's Beloved, and ours!
“And a cloud overshadowed them, and a voice came out of the cloud, ‘This is my beloved Son; listen to him.’ And suddenly, looking around, they no longer saw anyone with them but Jesus only” (Mark 9:7-8).
One of the most spectacular scenes in Mark’s gospel happens at Jesus’ transfiguration. Peter, James, and John were led up on a high mountain to behold Jesus as he beamed with radiant glory. There, with Jesus, suddenly appeared Elijah and Moses—two highly respected Jewish figures representing the Law and the Prophets. These two were talking with Jesus (Luke 9:31 adds the detail that they were speaking with Jesus about His departure). Perplexed and overcome with fear, Peter suggests marking the moment's significance by erecting three tents. A cloud overshadows them all, and a voice says, “This is my beloved Son; listen to him.” Suddenly, there was no Moses or Elijah, but they only saw Jesus.
The Father made a statement about His Son. Jesus is the object of the Father’s love. He is “my beloved” Son. From eternity, the Son has been the object of the Father’s affection, the center of His joy. This ancient love is far beyond our comprehension, and yet this love is what the Word made flesh embodies. Of the Son, the Father says, “Hear him.” His message to a dying world is, “Peace through my Son!” Jesus is God’s message to the world, for long ago, God spoke to the fathers through the prophets (think Elijah and Moses), but in these last days, He has spoken to us by His Son (Hebrews 1:1-2). The glory of Jesus is that He so fully and perfectly communicates God’s merciful heart towards us. He is the Father’s Beloved, and He gave Himself so that our hearts would be won over to Him. He wants us to be caught up in the joy of knowing Him.
In a little while, we will see His glory face to face, and every doubt, fear, and impurity in our hearts will be banished forever. Until then, let’s keep staring at Jesus with the eyes of faith! He is the Father’s beloved and ours!
Inclement Weather Updates
Due to inclement weather and hazardous road conditions affecting our region, we are adjusting several scheduled events this week. Kindly take note of the following updates:
Trending Questions
There will be no Wednesday night gathering on January 17th. We will resume again next week, on January 24th.
Young Professionals
The Young Professionals gathering scheduled for January 18th has been postponed. Our next meeting will occur in the Cafe on January 25th at 6:30 pm.
We appreciate your understanding and patience.
Staring at Him with you, thank you Tony 🙏🏼