Pastor’s eNote: Weekly Update

One of the very first books I ever read about the end times and the second coming of Jesus was given to me by Pastor David Walker back when I was a senior in high school. George Eldon Ladd’s book, “The Presence of the Future” was an eye-opener for me as an 18-year-old believer. Ladd taught New Testament at Fuller Theological Seminary (where I attended) and his take on “biblical realism” still influences me to this day.

It was Ladd who helped me discover that Christ’s second coming is a hopeful sign which signals the fullness of God’s plan for humanity. Instead of fear, there is a vision of Jesus’s return which inspires patience, grace, and love during this in-between time in which we live. Our current worship series “The Coming Presence” is inspired by Ladd’s book nearly 60 years since it was published.

I share this background to encourage us to remove some of the “taboo” of speaking, teaching, and sharing the news of Jesus’ coming again. When framed with hope instead of fear, this truth can inspire hearts to change, and people may be saved. I know I was when giving my life to Christ at age 13!

Jesus works today by bringing signs of hope in our lives which we are called to share. (1 Peter 3:5) What we must always remember is that the church, through the power of the Holy Spirit, is the “presence of the future.” Our lives and our church bear witness of the reign of Christ and his coming again. We should heed the call to be a church which looks more like eternity than anything earthly.

Thanks be to God for the presence of the future in our church and in our lives.

AND here is a quick P.S. about how you can engage this Advent:

1. Pick up a hardcopy or digital version of our Advent devotional “Changed in the Waiting.”

2. Help at the Christmas Carnival with the families of North Queen Anne Childcare December 6.

Grace to You All,

Pastor Craig Brown
(12/3/2024)