Have you ever seen a collage of small images combined to create a larger one? Below is what appears to be a picture of a dog, but when examined closely you will notice that it is a combination of random photos displayed in such a way to create another image.
When examined closely each individual picture stands alone; there is no connection between any two photos. However, by panning out we see how together the individual photos create an entirely new image.
We recently finished a six-week sermon series titled The Final Six Days, where we examined the final six days of Jesus’ earthly ministry. They all occurred during the fateful Passover week beginning with Palm Sunday and ending with the crucifixion and burial of Jesus. Beginning on March 10 we looked at each of the six days of Passover week. During this time we discussed:
- The Triumphal Entry (Palm Sunday)
- The barren fig tree and the cleansing of the temple
- Parables of the Final Judgement, specifically the parable of sheep and goats
- Jesus’ anointing at Bethany
- The Passover meal (Last Supper), when Jesus washed his disciples’ feet
- Good Friday Service, remembering the arrest, crucifixion, and burial of Jesus (Friday evening)
- The Sabbath Day, when Pilate allowed the Jewish leaders to seal the tomb
Each one of those days/events could be seen as individual Scriptures and stand-alone sermons. However, when put together, we gain God’s perspective of how all of these events, and others, were woven together in order to fulfill Jesus’ ultimate purpose while on earth – to save his people from their sins (Matthew 1:21).
Life can be like this. For example, we can examine our lives as simply a random collection of individual events, each one isolated from the other. When approached this way our lives do not seem to have a greater purpose; each day or event does not combine with other days or events to create a “larger picture.”
If, on the other hand, we are seeking God’s will for our lives, we understand that our lives have great meaning, and that God uses every day and event to fulfill His purpose in our lives. Taken on an individual basis each day may not seem as much. Yet when we pan out and see how God uses each day, month, year, and decade to fulfill His purpose our lives take on much greater meaning.
God truly does have a plan and purpose for your life. Consider the following Scripture passages:
- Proverbs 3:5-6 — Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
- Proverbs 16:1-4 — To humans belong the plans of the heart, but from the LORD comes the proper answer of the tongue. All a person’s ways seem pure to them, but motives are weighed by the LORD. Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. The LORD works out everything to its proper end— even the wicked for a day of disaster
- Proverbs 19:21 — Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.
- Jeremiah 29:11 — For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
- Romans 8:28 — And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Your life is not a random event. Your life is created by God, and He has a divine will for you. When you submit your will to His, making Jesus’ prayer, “Thy will be done” true for your life, then you will see God’s plan and purpose being fulfilled in you and through you. We may not see it day by day, but over a lifetime your life will create a beautiful picture of God’s grace and glory – even the difficult times.
Therefore, let us live each day with purpose and conviction, knowing that God is using us for His greater purpose.
God Bless!
Your servant in Christ,
pastor mike