The Rock Weekly – December 18, 2024

 

The “Year” of The Lord’s Favor

“Then Job answered: Yes, I know what you’ve said is true, but how can a person be justified before God? … There is no mediator between us, to lay his hand on both of us.” – Job 9:1-2, 33 CSB

In Job 9 the Bible captures a sentiment that was common in the Old Testament: How can a person be justified before God? There is no mediator between us.

Under the old covenant there was a great chasm between God and mankind which was very literally represented by a thick curtain. The space where God’s presence rested was off-limits. People who loved God were constantly aware of the distance, and continuously reminded of their sinfulness which created the distance. 

But that all changed with Jesus. 

Luke 4:17-21 CSB

“ 17 The scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to Him [Jesus], and unrolling the scroll, He found the place where it was written: 

18 The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because He has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free the oppressed, 19 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor., 

20 He then rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant, and sat down. And the eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fixed on Him. 21 He began by saying to them, “Today as you listen, this Scripture has been fulfilled.” 

We now get to live in the “year” of the Lord’s favor! It’s not a literal 365-day period, but instead it’s a reference to the Jewish “Year of Jubilee” which was the year when all debts were cancelled and slaves were given their freedom. 

As we approach Christmas, I want to encourage you to reflect on the birth of Jesus and how He has ushered us into this season of God’s favor: the cancelled debt of sin and freedom from sin. We no longer have to offer bulls and goats as sacrifices, we are justified by Jesus. We aren’t under condemnation from God, Jesus has become the mediator between us and God (1 Tim 2:5).

Father, thank you so much for giving your Son so that we could have relationship with you. Thank you for pouring out your favor in this season so that we could live in your love, mercy, and grace. As we find ourselves especially busy this season, will you help us to take time to honor and remember the greatest gift ever given; Jesus. 

Be blessed,
Pastor Andrew and The Rock Staff

 

 

IMPORTANT SERVICE & WEEKLY INFORMATION:

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FOOD BANK DISTRIBUTION – 1st & 3rd Saturday of each Month
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SUNDAY MORNING PRE-SERVICE PRAYER  8:15-9:15am – *In-Person & On-line*
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OPPORTUNITIES TO GIVE  Here are some ways you can partner with The Rock as you practice generosity – our regular tithe/giving, compassion help, missions, and our food bank.  Click on the following link or graphic.  www.therock.org/give

 

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