In these past couple weeks, everything changed. Many churches, ours included, were not only trying to figure out WHAT to communicate to their congregation, but even HOW to communicate to them. In a time when we are being forced to have new limitations, how can we actually utilize these limitations and turn them into purposeful limitations? In this time of forced neglect, there will be many temptations to run to things that we should not run to, yet there are incredible opportunities for us to make the most of it and plant ourselves in a place by the water where we can grow, change, and be a blessing to others. ABOUT THIS SERIES: Your habits form you more than you form your habits. One study claims that 40% of our day's decisions come from habits. Most times, we don't even see these habits; we take them for granted, we mindlessly carry them out, and we move along with life. And yet, every time we do them, they are shaping us, reinforcing patterns, desires, and strengthening particular passions. In short, they are leading us in worship. How do we take back control of our habits and cultivate them in a way that leads us towards godliness and a love for Jesus? One way is to see our habits as liturgy: repetitions done to facilitate worship. When we see our whole life as liturgy, it changes how we approach every decision.

Scripture References: Jeremiah 17:5-10

From Series: Life as Liturgy | More Messages from Jobey McGinty

From Series: "Life as Liturgy"

At the close of the Old Testament, God leaves His people in suspense for 400 years before the arrival of John the Baptist and Jesus. During this period, significant events unfolded, such as the Maccabean Revolt led by Judas Maccabaeus against the Seleucids. And when the curtain opens on the New Testament, we again find Judea under occupation...this time by the Romans. And the Jews are desperate for a Judas Maccabaeus type of Messiah to come along and give the Romans the boot. And when Jesus entered Jerusalem they thought the time had finally come...but they were quickly disappointed by a Messiah who encouraged them, instead, to love and serve their enemies. He had come for a far greater purpose: to conquer a far bigger regime than the Romans. Just like the Jews, we often have our own expectations and desires for what Jesus "should" be...and it mostly boils down to a Santa Claus messiah who will right our personal frustrations and cater to our needs. But He has far greater plans for you and I! He is greater than Judas Maccabaeus...better than Adam, Elija, David, and all others before Him...and He is better than you and I. He stands righteous, in our place, before the Father above, presenting us washed in His blood and acceptable in His sight!

Scripture References: Malachi 4:4-6

From Series: Advent: I Will Draw Near to You | More Messages from Jobey McGinty

Sermon Notes