Pastor Jon introduced the second sermon as a follow up to last week's message, "We're Better Together." He began his message by explaining a relationship he developed at college with a janitor by the name of Keith. Pastor Jon emphasized the fact that this janitor always had a positive outlook on life and used the skills that God blessed him with to have a profound influence on the lives of students on Pastor Jon's campus. He explained that even though the janitor didn't have the highest profile or highest paying job, that didn't prevent him from showing God's glory everywhere he went. He also shared that often times when we are going through times of struggle; it helps to lift up the name of God in praise, much like David did in many of the Psalms. Pastor Jon offered Psalm 135:1-4 as an example: "Praise the Lord! Praise the name of the Lord; Praise Him, O you servants of the Lord! You who stand in the house of the Lord, in the courts of the house of our God, Praise the Lord, for the Lord is good; Sing praises to His name, for it is pleasant. For the Lord has chosen Jacob for Himself, Israel for His special treasure." Pastor Jon concluded his message with an emphasis on four key points. First, we have an identity in Christ, we are God's treasure and are called to be people of praise and worship. Second, our identity is found in Christ alone. Jacob, who identified himself as a deceiver, became Israel which means: "Prince with God". Third, worshipping God requires us to let go of our idols. Lastly, "we become like that which we worship" (see Psalm 135:15-18). Jon shared a progression which helps us to reflect the glory of God. Start with thanksgiving, then move into praise and finally worship. In this way, rather than becoming like the idols in this world, we begin to reflect the glory of God and become more like Him.
