From the Desk of Pastor Matt

I was just getting prepared for the Tuesday evening small group. We have been going through the letter to the Ephesians. It has been tough going at times, and we are barely halfway through the letter. Early on, Paul talks about the elect, the chosen, and, in a roundabout way, predestination. We finally got through that early section of the letter.
           
Today, as I have worked on chapter four, I have found more tough parts to get through. Paul discusses spiritual maturity and what it looks like. He talks extensively about unity and how that is achieved. He then talks more about unity!
           
Throughout these weeks, I have been reminded that no matter how many times I read these parts of the Bible, I still have so much to learn. Seminary did not teach me everything I needed to know. Twenty-five years of lessons, Bible studies, newsletters, sermons, and more have not taught me everything I needed to know.
           
So, I am continually reminded of how much I do not know and the need to hunt down answers. I find answers to life, faith, and the Bible in so many places. Answers are discovered by reading the scriptures through a fresh lens of a new translation, talking to others who have spent time studying the Christian faith, digging into ancient languages I struggle to remember, reading commentaries, and talking things over with God.
           
However, this work is not only mine to do; it is also yours. Part of our job is to wrestle with the scriptures just as Jacob wrestled with God. Like Jacob, sometimes you’ll walk away without all the answers you came looking for. That is when we are left with a mystery that leads to deeper faith and trust in God. You just might leave with a blessing, as Jacob did. No matter what the outcome, studying and praying through the Bible is well worth the effort.
           
I wish you the best in all your struggles and in overcoming.

Peace,
 

Pastor Matt