“Apart from the gospel I’ll whine more than I’ll worship. Apart from the gospel I’ll judge people more than I’ll seek to understand them. Apart from the gospel I’ll get my feelings hurt quicker than being careful not to offend others. Apart from the gospel I’ll avoid people who want more from me than I want to give them. Apart from the gospel I’ll react selfishly to irritants (people and situations) rather than responding graciously. Apart from the gospel I’ll talk more than I will listen. Apart from the gospel I’ll think about me much more than I’ll think about you. Apart from the gospel I won’t risk anything, I’ll do just enough to get by. Apart from the banquet of-the-gospel I’ll be reaching for junk food all day long, literally and figuratively. Father, show me what thinking, feeling and choosing in line with the truth of the gospel requires of me and then give me that supply!”
—Scotty Smith, Everyday Prayers For a Transformed Life
We invite you to prepare for this upcoming Sunday’s service by using this excerpt of our September 4th bulletin below. We encourage you to use the topic, passage, liturgy, and songs for prayer and reflection.
Preaching Passage for this Sunday: Mark 1:1–15
Songs:
- Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise
- I Will Glory in My Redeemer
- Fullness of Grace
- Across the Lands
Old Testament Reading: Malachi 4:1–6
Reflect:
“The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” —Mark 1:15