Once I had an experience on my back porch when we were still living in Center Point, AL. I was watching wasps, and other critters, feeling the cool breeze blowing, and the warmth of the sun upon my skin. In my prayerful reflections, it dawned upon me that all these physical realities are pointing to something much greater, namely, God Himself. As the Scriptures indicate, there are physical, material realities that are but shadows of the substance (Col 2:17; Heb 8:5; 10:1).

Recently, I have been spending time with Jonathan Edwards, digging into his writings. One of them is his list of notes called “Images of Divine Things.” I don’t think Edwards meant for this list to be published and widely known (perhaps he was using this research to write a book on the topic one day), but still, reading his thoughts on this matter soon becomes an act of worship.

Perhaps Edwards stretches the idea of a type / shadow a bit too far, and perhaps there will be endless debate about the interpretations of exactly what the physical shadows are meant to signify spiritually, but nevertheless Edwards does make you think. Did God create the physical world in such a way, that everything in it points to something greater?

Well, you can read Edward’s list at the Jonathan Edwards Center and come to your own conclusions. Enjoy!

Over the past several weeks, I have had the opportunity (honor, difficulty) to attend four different funerals. All four of them were the result of tragic, unexpected deaths. My heart broke painfully for all four families.

In the midst of these crisis moments, I selfishly asked the Lord what I should be learning. (Selfish, because my learning something was not the main thing going on – far from it). And what did I learn? Once again the only life lesson that really matters. The Gospel is true.

While driving to one of the funerals, I listened to Tim Keller’s sermon called Real Friendship and a Pleading Priest. In the sermon, Keller takes us back to the difficult-to-understand event of Genesis 18:16-32, where Abraham approaches God to plead for the lives of the Sodomites. Keller does not hesitate to show this passage for what it is – a priest pleading for the lives of people who would mean him harm. And this passage does not hesitate to point us to Christ who stands as a high priest, pleading for the lives of guilty sinners.

In other words, in the midst of incredible separation, pain, brokenness, and heartache, the Gospel of Jesus Christ, our High Priest, came shining through in my own mind and heart as the only hope for sinners.

Furthermore, all four funeral services were focused on the Gospel. It was sung, it was spoken, it was celebrated. It was lifted up as the hope of the redeemed.

I am convinced more than ever, that the truth of Christ’s saving love and power, is the most vital truth any of us could ever know and embrace. Abraham learned that it is possible to be in corporate solidarity with the righteous, so that the wicked are saved because of the righteous (listen to Keller’s sermon). And so we must learn of our need to be in corporate solidarity (to be “In Christ” as Paul constantly teaches us), so that the righteousness of the One will cover the wickedness of the many.

Amazingly, the Gospel shines brightly against the backdrop of four tragic deaths. Lord, I’m thankful.

It might be awhile before I tackle the Song of Solomon directly in my own preaching, though (no kidding), I want to. But the message of the book is critical for RIGHT NOW. No matter who you are, you need to hear the message of this great book of sexual wisdom. Dr. Platt does a great job unfolding it for us in the video below. It will not be wasted if you take the time to listen and meditate.

Guys,
I just wanted to let you know officially how proud I am of each of you. Your graduation ceremony was a powerful moment, and I found myself tearing up several times. I recalled how small you guys were as 9th graders, and how fun. I knew then that God has His hand on you as a class, and it is so awesome to see some of that fruit blossoming in your lives.

BTW – Emily, Nick, Cory, Jacob, and James – the music was great! Bob and Becca, both of you gave inspiring speeches, and I was challenged by you both.

I told you guys all year that I love you, and I really do. If you ever need an ear that is attached to a friend, please contact me. It has been one of the highest honors of my life to spend time with the SMCS class of 2010, and I will miss you. May the Lord guide your steps.

Call me…
…Jason

Isaiah 9:6-7 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this.

This is a passage of incredible hope! Jesus Christ is this “child” who is born to us, this “son” who is given. His eternal role is to rule the new heavens and the new earth (“on the throne of David”) for all eternity.

God’s “zeal” will make this happen, to be sure. He does not fail, nor can any person, human or angelic, thwart His eternal plan to be glorified through the reigning of His grand Son Jesus Christ.

May the “Prince of Peace” be the King of His people, and provide for them the benefit and opportunity to worship and obey him “from this time forth and forevermore.”

RockMountainLakes

I am excited to announce that Rock Mtn Lakes Baptist Church will be offering Homeschool Tutorial classes this upcoming school year.

Just follow this link to read about the four classes being offered, the instructors, and other important information.

Please help us get the word out. If you know of any families that might be interested, would you pass this information along to them?