Fields United Methodist Church

Side by Side with Jesus.                                                     Pastor Tom Joyce

February 1, 2021

“And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.’”    Matthew 28:18

There was a sign on President Harry Truman’s desk that read, “The Buck Stops Here.”  Those in a leadership capacity know that decisions that are made within an organization ultimately are the responsibility of those in a position of authority. Jesus has authority through being God’s Son, which is a really big thing. But he also possessed, as any successful human leader needs, personal authority, or the trust and the confidence of the people.  Jesus came not telling people that he had all the answers or that he was the Son of God, rather he “did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness.” (Philippians 2:7) In other words, the authority of Jesus was defined by what he did, his sacrifice for each of us and his willingness to do whatever it took to offer new life and the freedom from sin that keeps us from truly living life in abundance. Jesus did not just say, “trust me,” he witnessed to the whole world ultimate trustworthiness in offering the love God to all people. Jesus is just not a slogan, a flashing neon sign, and certainly not a name to be blurted out in frustration. Jesus is the Son of God who suffered and died for you, and by the power of God was resurrected for you so you can celebrate new life. Because of Jesus, sin “stopped” on the cross for all who believe. We are offered new life not for Jesus’ sake, but for our sake, for our souls.  In a time where it can be hard to trust, you can trust Jesus no matter your circumstance. As the old hymn sings, “Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus, and to take him at his word; just to rest upon his promise, and to know, thus saith the Lord.” (‘Tis so Sweet to Trust in Jesus,” #462UMH.  Louisa Stead) Trust in Jesus, and you will Know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”  (John 8:32) Thank you Jesus for loving us, no matter what. Help us to trust your saving grace you have offered to all people, especially for times such as these. Amen

Rev. Tom Joyce