Title: "Hope: The Doorway to Change"
Scripture: Is 43:18-19; Rev 21:5
Key Verse: "Do not remember the former things, or consider the things of old. I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert" (Is 43:18-19).
Theme: Change really takes place. That's the message of the Scriptures. New beginnings are possible. They're possible with God's involvement. But, the whole point of Jesus' call to discipleship is to get us involved in what God is already doing. "Now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?" God asks? God wants us to get involved. But, to do that we have to have hope that what we are doing with God will make any difference at all, that it's even worth it. What God is asking of us disciples is that before his future ever becomes undeniable reality to everyone, that we believe his future wholeheartedly. This involves, among other things, making political decisions and acting in such ways that anticipate the breaking-forth reality of a kingdom of justice, love, mercy, peace, and life.
The Big Question: How can we bring about the change we desire?
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About brandon
I'm a United Methodist pastor serving in Alabama. I serve as associate in charge of evangelism and discipleship. I preach weekly at my church's contemporary worship service.
I have an M.Div. from Duke Divinity School, and a BS in Business Admin. from Auburn University. My high school alma mater is the Alabama School of Fine Arts.
Some of my hobbies include playing guitar and piano and reading. My favorite authors include Stanley Hauerwas, Richard Hayes, Donald Miller, and William Willimon (not just because he is my bishop).
My wife, Jennifer, and I live in Alabama with our cat, Gracie. We have a 20-month-old little boy.