2 Samuel 5:1-5 and Mark 6:2-13

July 4th falls on a Sunday this year. And the Bible texts seem most fitting! The 2 Samuel reading is about the beginning of good King David’s attempt at nation building. What will Israel/Judah be all about?!

Mark tells us of Jesus’ ministry being all about “people building” in the Kingdom of God! Nations (and the people therein)and their relationship with God should always be shaped by Jesus’ teaching, healing, and saving presence. We will look at this idea of “two Kingdoms” and how they compare and contrast.

For sure, it is an ongoing challenge to be “in the world but not of the world.” Just ask any Christian who is elected to serve in public office!! Ask any Christian simply in their daily walk with the Lord!

Jesus knows us! He knew that his task would be for the “long haul” since he was dealing with weak, limited human beings in a Fallen World. The Mark passage emphasizes Jesus was “amazed at their lack of faith!” We are a work in progress where the old saying, “God’s not finished with me yet,” is very realistic. Just ask King David!

Happy July 4th and happier still that God saves and gives us freedom!

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Pastor Barry