Our Future Is...
Good morning Immanuel. The resurrection of Jesus means we can raise our expectations: our future is incredibly bright!
“And Israel said to Joseph, ‘I never expected to see your face; and behold, God has let me see your offspring also’” (Genesis 48:11).
How the goodness of God outstrips our best hopes! “I never expected” must be one of the most repeated phrases in heaven above. Nothing good is finally gone for those who hope in God. Israel receives back more than the son he lost; he holds in his arms the grandchildren he never imagined.
Who isn’t moved in heart looking back on this gracious event? But in looking back, we are also looking forward. The restoration of Israel’s son is a picture of the restored future awaiting all who hope in the resurrected Son of God. Looking to Him, let’s raise our expectations today. Our future is incredibly bright!
Looking for a few good resources on the resurrection of Jesus? Check out this archive of resources on the Gospel Coalition.
On the horizon…
NEXT STEPS DAY - Interested in learning more about membership at Immanuel? Our Next Steps Event is for you! Join us on Saturday, October 21, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. in the cafe as we cover four sessions on membership at Immanuel. Coffee and lunch will be provided. You may RSVP here.
DISCOVER RECEPTION - New or newish to Immanuel? Formerly known as the Discover Luncheon, the new Discover Reception is an opportunity to connect at 10:45 am in the cafe for an overview of Immanuel and a time for Q&A. Our next Discover Reception is October 8th. RSVP here.
God be praised. Ephesians 3:20 has been helping to correct some of my expectations:
Ephesians 3:20–21
[20] Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, [21] to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen. (ESV)
Now another verse to drive it in further that some wonderful surprises are up ahead!