This week Rev. Cozette Thomas explores the themes of calling, faith, and the Kingdom of Heaven as presented in the book of Matthew. She emphasizes the importance of remembering God's promises, the role of Jesus as a light in darkness, and the call to action for individuals to respond to their own callings in the context of community and faith. The message is one of hope, urging listeners to recognize their skills and purpose in the face of current challenges.
This week's scripture - Matthew 4:12-23:
12 Now when Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew to Galilee. 13 He left Nazareth and made his home in Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali, 14 so that what had been spoken through the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled:15 “Land of Zebulun, land of Naphtali,
on the road by the sea, across the Jordan, Galilee of the gentiles—
16 the people who sat in darkness
have seen a great light,
and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death
light has dawned.”
17 From that time Jesus began to proclaim, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”18 As he walked by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea—for they were fishers. 19 And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of people.” 20 Immediately they left their nets and followed him. 21 As he went from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John, in the boat with their father Zebedee, mending their nets, and he called them. 22 Immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.23 Jesus went throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and curing every disease and every sickness among the people.
Chapters
00:00 Scripture Reading and Sermon Introduction
00:05 The Call of Jesus and Its Implications
15:01 Responding to the Call in Today's Context
19:23 Conclusion and Sending Forth
