The Gathering Church Podcas‪t‬ The Gathering Church

There is celebration in the harvest feast. The parable of the sower is an appropriate one for this season of hardship, sacrifice, and growth. We might not think of this passage right away when we think of Lenten scriptures, but it is a reminder for us that our season of sacrifice should also be a season of growth and celebration as we reflect on the grace of God in the midst of it all.

Fasting had been twisted into an act that wasn’t about the grace of God; it had become instead a way to earn God’s favor. There are many issues with this type of legalistic approach to fasting, but one dangerous aspect of collateral damage happens when we are so focused on fasting that we lose our ability to feast.

Paul's understanding of his identity in Christ compelled him to continue to live with purpose. He was determined to let everyone know about God's grace.

In Christ we are united. We have one hope, and one mission.

What does it mean to be saved by grace and how does it affect how we live?

The letter to the Ephesians offers an apparently simplistic response to pressing needs. In Christ, who is now Lord of the cosmos and the destined final point toward which history is moving, God has spelled out a concern for the world and its people. The simplicity of the letter is its genius.