We just wanted to update everyone that we are still waiting for the background check from the FBI. Please pray that this would come quickly. We have some sparkling apple cider that we will open once it comes in. 

On the first of January I had the privilege of preaching at one of the greatest churches in the world, Lucerne Baptist. I shared these thoughts and thought they might be an encouragement to you. From Matthew 26:1-29. In this passage there are four scenes that Matthew pens to reinforce Matthew 23-25. If you took Matthew 23-25 and summarized it you would have two major thoughts:
1. Salvation is a gift of God's grace, not of any works, and our works boast of God's grace.
2. The sternness of the chapters should keep Christian disciples sober in this world, longing for the world to come!
Now Matthew takes an brings several historical events to drive home the Lord Jesus' teachings.
vss.1-5 We have the intentional plans of the religious to kill the Lord Jesus
vss. 6-13 - The anointing of the Lord Jesus, reckless abandonment
vss. 14-16 - An act of betrayal
vss. 15-35 - A last meal together
Here are some applications from these scenes.
1. Religious people who embrace triton over truth will attempt to kill that which really reflects Lord Jesus.
2. Selfless abandonment to the Lord Jesus requires relinquishing what I hold most precious to my Lord.
3.Unless by God's grace I to would be a Judas. Question "Would you let the Lord Jesus wash your feet knowing you were about to betray Him?
4. The intimacy of a supper provides us a model for our church gatherings. Intimacy, devotion and strength.
Intimacy - We need one another; Kingdom living is lived among one another.
Devotion - Remembering Jesus is to proclaim his Life, Death, Resurrection, Ascension and Return.
Strength - We must press on faithfully. Remember our Lord will eat again at the Great Wedding Banquet.

Believing God for a work of His grace in the Northern Most Capital of the World!!
By His grace and For His glory.