His Story, Our Mission: November 16, 2025
Resurrected Reality: Finding Your Purpose in Luke 24
What happens when you go from paralyzing fear to uncontainable joy in the span of an afternoon? That was the core of Pastor Michael's message this past Sunday as we wrapped up the book of Luke, focusing on Luke 24:36–53!
The Shock of Shalom
The disciples were huddled in an upper room, cycling through stories of an empty tomb and roadside encounters, when suddenly, Jesus himself stood in their midst and said, "Peace to you." Far from being peaceful, they were terrified—they thought they were seeing a ghost!
Pastor Michael highlighted how Jesus verifiably proved his bodily resurrection:
He said, "Touch me and see."
He showed them his hands and feet (scars and all).
He even asked for a snack and ate a piece of broiled fish!
The main takeaway here? Jesus is really, truly alive, and his resurrection is undeniable.
From Witness to Herald
Jesus didn't just come back to reassure them; he came back to commission them. He opened their minds to the Scriptures, showing them that his suffering and rising were necessary. But the story doesn't end there!
The core message of the sermon was a change in purpose:
"Repentance for forgiveness of sins will be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning in Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things." (Luke 24:47-48)
Pastor Michael emphasized that our lives are not just about our own relationship with God or trying to endure circumstances. Our primary calling is to be witnesses and heralds of Jesus's story—the good news that forgiveness is available through him.
Empowered for the Mission
When Jesus ascended to heaven, he didn't leave them without hope. He left them with a blessing and a promise: to wait for the power of the Holy Spirit. The disciples' response wasn't mourning, but great joy and praise!
It’s easy to feel unequipped for evangelism or discipleship, but Pastor Michael reminded us that we are called to this mission, not in our own strength, but empowered by the Holy Spirit. Our purpose is clear: to share the story of Jesus's death and resurrection.
This week, let’s go out fueled by the joy of the resurrection and ready to share the message we’ve been entrusted with!
