Libin discusses the significance of Christmas carols, particularly those about the Savior, during the Advent season. He notes the church had 24 memorial services this year, highlighting personal losses and challenges faced by many. Libin emphasizes the importance of songs about the Savior for those experiencing grief and loss. He introduces Mary's song from Luke, detailing her humble circumstances and the prophetic nature of her words. Mary's song reflects God's might, holiness, and mercy, and it underscores the reversals in God's kingdom where the humble are exalted and the needy are filled. Libin encourages the congregation to carry Christ in their hearts and to live out the values of humility and mercy.
JoAnn Hummel reflects on a family gathering in Ocean City, New Jersey, where a tense moment led to a crucial conversation. She draws parallels to the biblical story of David and Nabal, emphasizing Abigail's wise intervention. Abigail's actions—pausing to assess, preparing to approach, and addressing David with humility and respect—are highlighted as key to resolving conflict. JoAnn encourages the congregation to apply these principles in their own crucial conversations, advocating for love, self-control, and peacemaking. She concludes with a call to spiritual preparation and humility in communication.
Pastor Steve Frissell highlights Nehemiah's efforts to restore Jerusalem, the challenges faced, and the ultimate need for Jesus to bring true transformation. He draws parallels between Nehemiah's actions and Jesus' mission, emphasizing the importance of a "holy burden" or calling to act on injustices and bring God's love to the world. Frissell shares his personal journey of adopting a child with Down syndrome, illustrating how recognizing and responding to a holy burden can lead to significant impact.
Libin shares personal memories of his grandparents, highlighting the impact of Alzheimer’s on his grandmother’s memory and identity. He draws parallels to the Israelites in Nehemiah, who, after rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls, faced the challenge of rediscovering their story and identity. Libin emphasizes the importance of understanding and obeying God’s Word, as exemplified by the Israelites’ celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles. He encourages us to cultivate a fresh desire for God’s Word, seek understanding, repent, and obey-leading to true spiritual renewal and joy.
Libin recounts an unexpected interaction with Charlie Sheen, who sought $200 under the guise of needing help for a church member. Libin, initially moved by the potential for spiritual outreach, later realized it was a scam. He then draws parallels to Nehemiah's challenges in Nehemiah 6, highlighting distractions of opportunity, false accusations, and compromise. He emphasizes the importance of staying focused on God's calling, as Nehemiah did, despite external pressures. He concludes by encouraging the congregation to trust in God's strength and to persevere in their respective missions.
Libin discusses the transition from external opposition to internal injustice in Nehemiah 5, highlighting the famine, high taxation, and debt that led to severe oppression among the people of God. Nehemiah's response is characterized by righteous anger, careful consideration, and courageous confrontation. The solution involves correction, accountability, and personal commitment to justice. Dr. Darrell Bock emphasizes the biblical roots of justice, rooted in God's character and the gospel. He stresses the importance of empathy, listening, and understanding in fostering justice and mission. The church's role in caring for the vulnerable and promoting justice is celebrated, with specific examples of local outreach and individual efforts.
Libin's sermon focuses on Nehemiah's mission to rebuild Jerusalem's wall despite opposition. Nehemiah faced public ridicule from Sanballat and Tobiah, who questioned the Jews' ability to rebuild. Despite this, Nehemiah prayed and persevered, leading the people to build the wall to half its height. He also took precautions, stationing guards day and night. Internal discouragement arose, but Nehemiah reminded the people of their purpose and the Lord's protection. Libin emphasizes the importance of prayer and action, drawing parallels to modern-day challenges and encouraging perseverance in faith.
Libin emphasizes the importance of teaching our children how to handle emotions and problems healthily. Libin draws parallels to Nehemiah's rebuilding of Jerusalem, highlighting the need to "close the distance," start from rest, assess the need, gather a team, and work the mundane. He stresses the significance of ordinary actions, citing Nehemiah's repair of the pool of Siloam, which later became crucial in Jesus' ministry. He concludes by encouraging faithful daily obedience and rest, inspired by the example of Lois Han, who prayed for the youth and diversity in her church.
Libin Abraham discusses the human struggle of finding purpose and the importance of discovering one's "why." He emphasizes that true purpose is found in knowing Jesus, as outlined in Ephesians 2:10. Abraham uses the story of Nehemiah to illustrate the journey of finding and acting on one's calling, highlighting the need for waiting, courage, and preparation. He notes that waiting is not wasted and that courage is found in prayer and dependence on God. Libin also points out that calling often involves conflict, which should be embraced as an affirmation of one's purpose.
Libin shars a story of a missionary's work in war-torn regions, highlighting the conversion and subsequent betrayal of a spy. Despite challenges, the missionaries were instructed to continue their work, leading to the establishment of a Ministry Center on the Gaza border. Libin emphasizes the global brokenness, citing 60,000 children dying weekly from hunger, 2.5 billion without clean water, and rising suicide rates in America. He calls for active engagement in missions, drawing parallels to Nehemiah's journey, urging the congregation to question, lament, and pray for God's guidance and restoration.