Saturday Night Presence Journal

November 28, 2008

Tonight’s message was one of hope and assurance for families experiencing harsh struggles. We began by inspecting the life of Joseph and his trials, both personal and family. As you will recall, this young man was sold into slavery and then forced to live in a foreign country. Though falsely accused and cast into prison, God’s plan decreed that he would become a father (chief-advisor) to Pharaoh and the savior of many lives from famine. After enduring rejection from his brothers—and his father not even aware that Joseph was alive, these relationships were beautifully restored in the end.

Ruth and Naomi’s lives offer a portrait of comfort and hope. This story thoroughly validates that our God cares about families who struggle and suffer.  Leaving their homeland of Israel, Naomi and her husband and two sons moved to a foreign country.   Sadly, she returned with only a daughter-in-law, Ruth. Without provision, inheritance, purpose or place, God restored all that Naomi had lost—through the faithfulness and virtue of Ruth. He always has a plan for restoring and healing our relationships!

While Jesus taught in the synagogue, the Jewish religious leaders brought a woman caught in the act of committing adultery to Him. Their goal was to trap Jesus by having her stoned. But our merciful Lord set her free from her accusers by asking those who were without sin to cast the first stone. That one question restored her life.

Finally, a father of two sons gave the younger one his inheritance. After traveling to a foreign country and spending all that he had, a process of hard times brought the young man to his senses. That was when he determined to return to his father’s house and live as one of the servants. However, his father received him back as a son and declared a time of celebration. This is such a true picture of our Heavenly Father. Always offering love and acceptance, He gladly welcomes those who are ready to leave their self-destructive lifestyles. Our Senior Pastor has been teaching on this marvelous God-given opportunity to change. And for this, we are thankful!

Together In Christ,

Dr. Robert & Lisa Pace
Pastors - Saturday Evening Service