Unveiling Women of Wonder: Pastor Adam Mesa's Insights

Unveiling Women of Wonder: Pastor Adam Mesa's Insights

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Exciting News from the Norco Prison Campus
3. Recap of the Anniversary Sunday
4. The Series on Women of Wonder and Father of Faith
5. The Story of Mary, Sister of Lazarus and Martha
6. Jesus's Visit to Bethany and Martha's Serving
7. Mary's Choice to Sit at the Feet of Jesus
8. Choosing God's Calling Over Culture
9. Prioritizing Jesus's Presence Over Possessions
10. Mary's Act of Anointing Jesus's Feet

Introduction

Welcome to our church! In this article, we have exciting news to share from our Norco Prison campus, along with a recap of our anniversary Sunday. We Are also in the midst of a series on women of wonder and fathers of faith. Today, we will Delve into the story of Mary, the sister of Lazarus and Martha, and explore her choice to sit at the feet of Jesus. Through her example, we will learn about the importance of choosing God's calling over culture and prioritizing Jesus's presence over possessions.

The Exciting News from the Norco Prison Campus

We have received thrilling news from our Norco Prison campus. After a year of waiting, a handful of our applicants have been given the green light by the prison authorities. This means that in a matter of weeks, we will be able to hold church services in the Norco prison every Sunday. We are deeply grateful for this opportunity to reach out to the men in the prison and make a positive impact in their lives. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting development.

Recap of the Anniversary Sunday

Last week, we celebrated our anniversary Sunday, and the response from all our campuses, particularly Pomona and Rancho, was incredible. Pomona showed great enthusiasm for our campus improvement projects, such as the launch of APL and the courtyard experience at Rancho. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to our vision Sunday and anniversary offering. Your support and dedication to reaching people, ministering to them, and making a difference in our community are truly inspiring.

The Series on Women of Wonder and Father of Fathers of Our Faith

Our Current sermon series is divided into two parts: women of wonder and fathers of our faith. Today, we will be wrapping up part one, focusing on Mary, sister of Lazarus and Martha. This remarkable woman will teach us valuable lessons about faith and devotion. The subsequent part of the series will dive into the lives of noteworthy fathers in our faith. Join us on this Journey as we explore the inspiring stories of these individuals and extract Timeless wisdom to Apply in our own lives.

The Story of Mary, Sister of Lazarus and Martha

In today's sermon, we will direct our Attention to the lesser-known Mary, sister of Lazarus and Martha, prominent figures in the Bible. While Mary is not the mother of Jesus, her actions and character exhibit remarkable qualities of faith and devotion. Together, we will examine the passage in Luke chapter 10, verses 38 to 42, where Mary chose to sit at the Lord's feet and listen to His teachings. This narrative will shed light on the significance of prioritizing God's calling over cultural expectations.

Jesus's Visit to Bethany and Martha's Serving

As we delve into Luke chapter 10, we enter a village, most likely Bethany, where Jesus is warmly welcomed into Martha's house. Martha, being the oldest sibling, takes on the responsibility of serving Jesus and the disciples. In the midst of her busyness, her sister Mary sits at the Lord's feet, immersing herself in His teachings. It is essential to note that in that cultural Context, women were not encouraged to sit at the feet of rabbis and participate in such learning opportunities.

Mary's Choice to Sit at the Feet of Jesus

Mary's decision to defy cultural norms and sit at Jesus's feet instead of engaging in household chores illustrates her commitment to God's calling above cultural expectations. While Martha becomes distracted with serving and expresses her concerns to Jesus, He lovingly redirects her focus. Jesus emphasizes that Mary has chosen the good portion, a spiritual nourishment that cannot be taken away from her. This highlights the importance of orienting our lives towards God's voice and calling, seeking His presence above all else.

Choosing God's Calling Over Culture

Mary's brave decision to sit at the feet of Jesus serves as a powerful reminder for us to prioritize God's calling over cultural expectations. In a world that constantly bombards us with societal norms, it is easy to get caught up in seeking approval from others. However, true fulfillment and purpose can only be found by aligning ourselves with God's will. By choosing to nurture our relationship with Him above conforming to cultural standards, we open ourselves up to the abundant life He has prepared for us.

Prioritizing Jesus's Presence Over Possessions

In another instance involving Mary and Martha, recorded in John chapter 12, Mary demonstrates her unwavering dedication to the Lord. As the week of Jesus's death approaches, Mary takes a pound of expensive ointment and anoints Jesus's feet, using her hair to wipe them. This act of devotion reveals her willingness to offer her most precious possession to Jesus. By choosing to prioritize Jesus's presence over possessions, Mary exemplifies a profound understanding of the eternal value found in a relationship with Him.

Mary's Act of Anointing Jesus's Feet

Mary's act of anointing Jesus's feet with the costly perfume Speaks volumes about her commitment to worshiping and honoring Him above all else. In contrast, Judas, one of Jesus's disciples, questions Mary's actions, suggesting that the perfume could have been sold to benefit the poor. However, Jesus defends Mary's act, recognizing the deep meaning and profound sacrifice behind her gesture. This narrative challenges us to evaluate our own priorities and consider whether we are willing to give our very best to honor and worship Jesus.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the stories of Mary, sister of Lazarus and Martha, offer valuable lessons on faith, devotion, and prioritizing God's calling above cultural expectations. Through Mary's example, we are reminded of the importance of sitting at the feet of Jesus, seeking His presence, and giving our very best to honor and worship Him. Let us strive to live in view of eternity, placing our trust in the One who offers abundant life and everlasting peace. May we choose to Align our lives with God's voice and calling, valuing His presence above all possessions.