What's Going On

What's Going On

Mark 4:37-38

By Rev. Dr. Russell M. Morrow

37 And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full. 38 And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish?

When the disciples said to Jesus, "Carest thou not that we perish?" (KJV), it reminded me of Marvin Gaye's iconic recording over fifty years ago: "What's Going On?" 

Check out the lyrics: "Mother, mother, there's too many of you crying. Brother, brother, brother, there's far too many of you dying. You know we've got to find a way to bring some lovin' here today. Father, father, we don't need to escalate. You see, war is not the answer, for only love can conquer hate. You know we've got to find a way to bring some lovin' here today. Picket lines and picket signs, don't punish me with brutality. Talk to me so you can see, oh, what's going on?"

The biblical scripture and the song emphasize the importance of remaining calm and seeking resolution during challenging times. The depiction of Jesus peacefully sleeping amid a storm sharply contrasts with the fear and uncertainty displayed by His disciples. Similarly, Marvin Gaye's plea for love and understanding amidst societal chaos reflects a deep yearning for peace.

These narratives serve as poignant reminders that faith, love, and proactive efforts are crucial when facing life's trials. One significant aspect of the biblical story is the disciples' fear despite witnessing Jesus' miracles and teachings. Their panic during the storm emphasizes how fear can overshadow faith. This is a timeless lesson: recalling God's past works and promises can help us find peace during our trials. Our response to life's challenges should be grounded in faith, love, and collective action.

The book of Ecclesiastes candidly acknowledges life's uncertainties and unfairness, yet Psalm 30:5 offers hope: "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning." This contrast between despair and hope underscores the importance of maintaining faith during difficult times. Understanding this balance can help us cope with life's unpredictability and find solace in our faith.

Collective action plays a crucial role in this context. Our worship should foster hope and optimism, sharing stories of resilience to inspire and remind us that positive change is possible.

Studying Jesus' actions and Marvin Gaye's message can deepen our understanding of peace and divine intervention. Serving others with love and understanding fosters empathy and reconciliation while advocating for peace and nonviolence to promote harmonious communities. "What's Going On?" represents the pursuit of peace amid turmoil, grounded in faith and collective action.

Reflecting on the biblical story of Jesus calming the storm and Marvin Gaye's call for societal love and understanding, we are reminded of the power of faith, love, and proactive efforts in overcoming life's challenges. Embracing these principles can help us navigate personal, communal, and societal storms, bringing about meaningful and positive change. 

The Incomparable Truth of the Kingdom of God

 

The Incomparable Truth of the Kingdom of God

Mark 4:29-34

Rev. Dr. Russell M. Morrow

Jesus shares the profound truth about the Kingdom of God through the growing seed parable. This story shows how the Kingdom operates through human effort and divine power. The Sower, representing preachers and believers, prepares the soil and plants the seed, symbolizing our responsibility to share the gospel. However, the growth of the seed, like the spread of the gospel, is a divine process beyond our control, reflecting God's mysterious and influential work in people's hearts. Just as the Sower waits patiently for the harvest, we must be patient in our spiritual journeys and ministries. God wants us to faithfully share God's message and trust that the growth of His Kingdom is ultimately in His hands.

Just like the bamboo tree, the Kingdom of God often grows in ways that are not immediately visible. We may not see immediate results, but God works beneath the surface. This growth is hidden and mysterious, yet God specifically ordained it.

Mark 4:33-34 further explains the Kingdom of God through Jesus' teaching method. Jesus used parables to communicate profound spiritual truths understandably to those open to receiving them while hiding these truths from those unready. It highlights the importance of being spiritually open and seeking a deeper understanding. Jesus prepared them to advance the Kingdom by giving private explanations to His disciples. It shows that the truths of the Kingdom are layered and accessible to those who genuinely seek them.

The Kingdom of God often grows through small, seemingly insignificant acts that impact significantly. When planted, Jesus teaches that even tiny seeds can grow into something extraordinary. Each act of kindness and each word of hope contributes to the growth of the Kingdom in ways we might not immediately see but are significant in God's plan.

The message of the Kingdom of God calls us to integrate these teachings into our daily lives. Personal Bible study is essential as we seek a deeper understanding of scripture and the divine truths within. Patience in ministry and trusting in God's timing for spiritual growth reflects our faith in His plan. The wisdom and authority of Jesus' teachings guide us, offering insights into how we should live and minister to others.

To internalize these truths, journal about a Jesus parable or teaching that has profoundly impacted your life. Sharing these reflections within your community can foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Kingdom's truths.

The Kingdom of God is often found in the least expected places and can transform lives in extraordinary ways. Mark 4:29-34 reminds us that God's Kingdom is not always visible to the naked eye but holds immense value and power.

We are encouraged to seek and recognize God's hidden work in our lives and the world around us. By doing so, we grow individually and contribute to the growth of the Kingdom, embodying the patience and dedication needed in our spiritual journeys and ministries. Through these practices, we experience the incomparable truth about the Kingdom of God, deepening our connection with the divine and one another.

In this time of social, moral, religious, and political division, let us hold fast to the hope in God's Kingdom. Let us be Sowers who trust in God's mysterious and influential work, knowing that every act of faith and kindness contributes to His divine plan.Top of Form

Embracing God's Immutable Love

 

Embracing God's Immutable Love

Scripture Reading: Mark 3:20-35

By Dr. Russell M. Morrow

On St. Johns Island, near Charleston, South Carolina, the magnificent Angel Oak tree, estimated to be over 400 years old, has withstood the test of time, enduring countless storms and environmental changes. Its sprawling branches offer shelter and refuge to all who seek its shade, standing as a testament to resilience and endurance. Just as this ancient oak remains steadfast and unyielding, God's immutable love has endured from the beginning of time through every age.

In our scripture reading, we witness Jesus facing significant challenges. His family thought He was out of His mind due to the intense demands of His ministry, and the scribes accused Him of being possessed by Beelzebul. Despite these false accusations and misunderstandings, Jesus responded with patience and explicit teaching. He dismantled the scribes' claims by explaining that a divided house cannot stand and emphasized that His power to cast out demons signified the arrival of God's kingdom. When told that His mother and brothers were seeking Him, Jesus redefined true kinship, declaring that those who do God's will are His true family; this highlights the inclusive nature of God's love, transcending biological ties and embracing all who seek to follow Him.

Reflecting on this passage, we see the immutable nature of God's love—a love that remains steadfast and unchanging even in the face of opposition and misunderstanding. Like the Angel Oak, which has weathered countless storms and stood the test of time, God's love endures through all circumstances. The Angel Oak, with its sprawling branches offering shelter and refuge, serves as a living testament to God's love's enduring and protective nature. Jesus' actions teach us about inclusivity and the redefinition of family, showing that God's love is open to everyone regardless of background. Furthermore, His commitment to truth and reconciliation in addressing false accusations demonstrates that God's love guides us toward understanding and unity.

As a church, we are called to emulate these principles by responding to misunderstandings with patience and compassion, respecting diverse viewpoints while staying united in our mission, and creating a community where everyone feels valued and included. In doing so, we reflect God's unwavering and protective love, much like the Angel Oak tree symbolizes endurance and shelter. Let us commit to being a beacon of God's immutable love, ensuring that our church is a place of healing and refuge where everyone feels welcomed and cherished. Through our actions and attitudes, may we continually reflect the steadfast love of God in all that we do.

Embracing the Sabbath

Embracing the Sabbath

By Rev. Dr. Russell M. Morrow

Scripture: "Observe the Sabbath day and keep it holy, as the LORD your God commanded you. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God..." (Deuteronomy 5:12-14)

Reflection: The Sabbath is a divine gift from God, deeply embedded in the fabric of creation. When God created the world, He worked for six days and rested on the seventh, setting an example for us to follow (Genesis 2:2-3). This rhythm of work and rest reflects God's rest and desire for us to enter His peace and rejuvenation.

Historically, the Sabbath was crucial for the Israelites. It was a sign of the covenant between God and His people, a reminder of their deliverance from slavery in Egypt (Deuteronomy 5:15). By observing the Sabbath, they acknowledged God's mighty hand and outstretched arm that brought them out of bondage. This day of rest was marked by a pause from work, communal worship, and family gatherings, ensuring the Sabbath was kept holy.

Jesus redefined the Sabbath, emphasizing its purpose as a blessing rather than a burden. Through His actions, Jesus demonstrated the true essence of the Sabbath – a time for healing, restoration, and doing good. He healed the sick, gave sight to the blind, and brought relief to the oppressed on the Sabbath, showing us that this day is meant for renewal and compassion.

What the Sabbath Means for Us Today: In our modern world, the Sabbath invites us to slow down and refocus on God. It is not merely a command to cease work but a call to find rest for our souls in Christ. Observing the Sabbath offers us rest, reflection, and rejuvenation, aligning us with God's design. It helps us live the abundant life Jesus promises, experiencing peace and transformation in His presence.

Many who observe the Sabbath testify to its profound rewards. They experience improved mental health, deeper spiritual connections, and overall well-being. Setting aside this sacred time, we find God's peace and presence in transformative ways.

The Sabbath is a profound gift from God, meant for our benefit. As we honor the Sabbath, we enter into God's rest, reflect on His goodness, and align ourselves with His divine rhythm. Let us embrace the Sabbath not as a burden but as a blessing, allowing it to transform our lives and draw us closer to God and the abundant life Jesus promises. May we find proper rest in Him, today and always. Amen