Know Doubt

“Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted.” Matthew28:16-17 NIV

Doesn’t it seem odd that after all the time the disciples spent with Jesus, some of them still doubted? Jesus doesn’t reprimand them for their doubts, instead he shows them grace, knowing they are struggling to process everything they have experienced. Sometimes the Gospel is so wonderful that it can be hard to really believe it is all true.

Do you have any doubts? We all know doubt. It is normal and healthy to be skeptical of things, and not just believe everything you are told. God gave us a mind to discern, to think, question, and trust. Doubt is not the opposite of faith; it is a companion on our spiritual journey. (Unbelief is the opposite of faith.)

In this Sunday’s Gospel reading, Matthew acknowledges that some of them doubted. It is notable that this doubt did that disqualify any of them from serving. Instead, Jesus calls them, doubters and all, to be his representatives in the world. He commands them to “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” (v. 19-20)

Jesus often calls imperfect people to do his greatest work. It is incredibly freeing to realize that experiencing moments of uncertainty does not disqualify you from following God. The disciples had walked with Jesus for years, witnessed miracles, and saw the empty tomb, yet still grappled with the magnitude of it all.

It is normal to wrestle with our beliefs, in fact, the journey with all its trials and tribulations, often leads us to a deeper, stronger faith. It is very similar to how exercise and training help an athlete grow and successfully compete. Even trees and plants are seasoned by storms, drought, and sunshine, helping them grow stronger and bear fruit.

God calls us from doubt to faith, to trust and believe in Jesus as our Savior and Lord. It is a daily walk, one that depends on God for all that we have and all His wonderful promises. That’s why we come together to worship weekly – to have our faith refreshed and renewed. Let’s come worship together!

We have some exciting things coming up in worship this summer for you to look forward to. In June we will be celebrating our Vacation Bible School, hearing music from the Grace Notes Strings Camp, celebrating Father’s Day. In July we will share in our nation’s 250^th birthday and welcome Anne Akerson back on piano, while Sandra Baran is enjoying welcoming a new grandchild. I’m sure we’ll have some other surprises!

Also, do not forget to bring items for the PBC Food Bank this month! Let’s fill up those boxes. In July we’ll start gathering back to school items – continuing our local mission to care for our community, living out our faith and mission.

See you Sunday!

In Christ;
Pastor Dan

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ANNOUNCEMENTS:

- Welcome to worship with First Evangelical and Holy Cross churches. If you would like more information about our churches, please talk to one of the pastors, call, or email the office. We look forward to hearing from you.

- Join us after worship today for a light lunch in the Fellowship Hall.

- Join us in supporting the local Palm Beach County Food Bank. Please bring your non-perishable food items (no glass) through the end of June and drop in one of the large boxes at the back of church. Items can include peanut butter, canned soup, oatmeal, protein bars, rice, pasta, etc.

- We’re looking for volunteers to help with Vacation Bible School this spring. Mark your calendars for June 15-19, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Our theme this year is: “True North”, where the kids will have an unforgettable Alaskan adventure! Registration will begin soon for 4-&5-year-olds and elementary youth.

- Would you like an Anniversary T-shirt or Polo? How about special souvenir pens, stickers, or hats? Or a color program from the afternoon? All are still available from the office.