Email Rev. Chris Peagler: cpeagler@homesc.com
February 17, 2019
While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the twelve, arrived; with him was a large crowd with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and the elders of the people. At that hour Jesus said to the crowds, "Have you come out with swords and clubs to arrest me as though I were a bandit? Day after day I sat in the temple teaching, and you did not arrest me. But all this has taken place, so that the scriptures of the prophets may be fulfilled." Then all the disciples deserted him and fled.
Matthew 26:47, 55-56 NRSV
The religious leaders and elders feared and hated Jesus. They were scared of someone who taught and showed love, forgiveness, and exemplified compassion. They were scared of someone who touched a leper and cleansed him. They wanted to kill someone who opened the eyes of a man who was born blind. What would compel such animosity and fear? This one word: Truth. Jesus wanted to open the eyes of our hearts, so that truth and love would transform us. When people are exposed to the truth and love of Christ, freedom happens; and those who love to control others hate such truth. Jesus said, "And you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free," (John 8:32 NRSV). May the love and truth of Christ set you free from lies, bondage, and fear!
With Much Love,
Pastor Chris
Matthew 26:47, 55-56 NRSV
The religious leaders and elders feared and hated Jesus. They were scared of someone who taught and showed love, forgiveness, and exemplified compassion. They were scared of someone who touched a leper and cleansed him. They wanted to kill someone who opened the eyes of a man who was born blind. What would compel such animosity and fear? This one word: Truth. Jesus wanted to open the eyes of our hearts, so that truth and love would transform us. When people are exposed to the truth and love of Christ, freedom happens; and those who love to control others hate such truth. Jesus said, "And you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free," (John 8:32 NRSV). May the love and truth of Christ set you free from lies, bondage, and fear!
With Much Love,
Pastor Chris