Jim, Chris, Debbie, and I spent some time this morning reflecting on the mercies of the Lord over the weekend. One thing I told them is that, though I always know what hymns we're going to sing, I don't always remember the particulars of each verse. But after immersing myself in Ecclesiastes 7 all week, I was overwhelmed by the connections in the third verse: "Each strand of sorrow has a place within this tapestry of grace; so through the trials I choose to say, 'Your perfect will in Your perfect way.'" I found so much encouragement in seeing and hearing you all sing each of the thoughtful hymns we sang together Sunday.
I should also say, of all the texts in Ecclesiastes, chapter 7 intimidated me the most. But the Lord often meets us in His might when we recognize our need even more acutely. If you missed Sunday's sermon, you can read or watch it here: (Limited Wisdom, Ecclesiastes 7:1-19)
It's hard to believe, but November is here. And that means Christmas music is on the horizon. I was excited to hear the children's choir practicing Sunday morning. So, go ahead and mark your calendars for December 18th, when both the adult choir and the children's choir will sing anthems about the incarnation of Christ.
Speaking of that, we actually only have 6 more sermons in Ecclesiastes. Then we'll have a couple of sermons on the incarnation in December. Then, Lord willing, we'll begin the book of James in January. The elders thought a New Testament wisdom book might be a good follow–up to Ecclesiastes. We also thought it might pair well with finishing up Romans. Don't tell Luther!
Speaking of Luther, I actually did look for a bit last week for some connection between the Reformation and Ecclesiastes 7. I found some stuff that sort of fit, but with a sermon that covers 29 verses, a number of tangents end up on the "cutting room floor." Nonetheless, I did attach to this email something I wrote on the Reformation a few years back. In that brief piece, I argue that "The key to a spiritual reading of church history is reading it as if it were the unfolding of the providence of God. And if God is directing all things through providence, and we’re to meditate on all His works, we also ought to study church history." We're thankful for the Lord's kindness to us 505 years ago this week!
Speaking of dates, though it's been a few years, we're planning the Thanksgiving Meal for Sunday evening, November 20th. Be looking for more information about that in the weeks ahead.
Ok, that's enough for now. Sunday morning: Romans 11:33-36 (Don't miss that!) and Ecclesiastes 8:1-17. We also have a membership class beginning this week. The Lord continues to demonstrate His kindness toward us by adding to our number. Tomorrow night: Sibbes, student study on This Changes Everything, and children's classes. We'll look forward to seeing many of you then!
Matt
P. S. I have a call with David Johnson this afternoon. He and April couldn't be more thankful for and humbled by your kindness toward them in the past few weeks. I'll keep you posted as best I can on their progress. Be praying for them as they begin taking practical steps toward landing in Memphis, Lord willing, sometime in January.
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