Jesus’ encounter with Zacchaeus is a powerful illustration of His desire for a personal relationship with each of us. At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are reminded that Jesus meets us where we are, inviting us into a transformative relationship that changes everything.

Jesus’ Invitation to Zacchaeus

Despite Zacchaeus’ social status and the crowd’s judgment, Jesus initiated a relationship with him. He called Zacchaeus down from the tree, demonstrating that no one is too far gone or too insignificant for His love. This invitation extends to us today, as Jesus seeks to know us intimately and walk with us through life’s challenges.

In Revelation 3:20, Jesus says, “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.” This verse highlights Jesus’ desire for a personal relationship with each of us, inviting us to open our hearts to Him.

The Importance of Relationship

Jesus’ invitation is not just about salvation; it’s about relationship. John 15:15 says, “I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends.” Jesus desires to know us deeply and to be a part of our lives.

This relationship is transformative, offering us hope, healing, and purpose. As we grow in our relationship with Jesus, we are empowered to live out our faith and share His love with others.

Our Response to Jesus’ Invitation

At Lakeview Christian Church, we respond to Jesus’ invitation by committing to “Just 3”: Study, Share, Serve. We study to know and love God, share to know and love others, and serve as love in action. This commitment reflects our desire to grow in our relationship with Jesus and to live out our faith in tangible ways.

Studying Scripture helps us understand God’s character and His will for our lives. Sharing our faith allows us to build relationships and extend the same grace to others. Serving others is a tangible expression of our faith, demonstrating the love of Christ in action.

Conclusion

Jesus’ invitation to relationship is a gift that transforms our lives. As we respond to His call, we are empowered to live out our faith and share the hope we have found in Him. Let us embrace this invitation, trusting that Jesus will meet us where we are and lead us into a deeper relationship with Him. At Lakeview Christian Church, we are committed to being the change as Jesus has changed us, living out the Gospel in every aspect of our lives.

The mission of Jesus is clearly articulated in Luke 19:10: “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” This verse encapsulates the purpose of Jesus’ coming and serves as a guiding principle for Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes. As His Church, we are called to continue this mission, reaching out to those who are far from God.

The Purpose of Christmas

Christmas is a celebration of Jesus’ birth, but it is also a reminder of His mission. Jesus came to find those who were lost and reunite them with the Father. This mission is not just a historical event but a living reality that continues through His Church.

The story of Zacchaeus is a perfect example of this mission in action. Despite Zacchaeus’ reputation and the crowd’s judgment, Jesus sought him out and offered him a new life. This encounter demonstrates that no one is beyond the reach of God’s love and that Jesus’ mission is to bring hope and healing to all.

Our Role in Jesus’ Mission

As the bride of Christ, Lakeview Christian Church embraces the mission to seek and save the lost. We are called to be obedient, standing ready when opportunities arise to share the hope we have found in Jesus. It is in these moments of obedience that human action intersects with divine intervention, leading to life change.

Obedience is a key component of our faith journey. When we respond to God’s call, we open the door for transformation, both in our lives and in the lives of others. Whether we witness the change or not, we trust that God is at work, just as He was in the life of Zacchaeus.

The Power of Obedience

Obedience requires us to step out in faith, trusting that God will use us to accomplish His purposes. It may not always be easy, but it is essential for fulfilling our mission as His Church. In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus commands us to “go and make disciples of all nations,” reminding us that our mission is to share the Gospel with the world.

Conclusion

The mission of Jesus is ongoing, and we are invited to participate in it. By embracing our role as His Church, we can make a difference in the lives of those around us. Let us be obedient to His call, trusting that He will use us to bring hope and healing to a broken world. As we celebrate Christmas, let us remember the true purpose of Jesus’ coming and commit to living out His mission in our daily lives.

Ever wonder if God is reaching out to you in the midst of your daily routine? The story of Zacchaeus offers a profound lesson on how Jesus meets us where we are, inviting us into a transformative relationship. This sermon on spiritual growth and hearing God’s call reminds us that no one is beyond reach, and hope is always within grasp.

Zacchaeus’ Unexpected Encounter

Imagine being Zacchaeus, a man despised by his community for his role as a chief tax collector. Despite his wealth, Zacchaeus was curious about Jesus, a man whose teachings and miracles had captivated many. But Zacchaeus faced a challenge—his short stature made it difficult to see over the crowd. Undeterred, he climbed a sycamore tree, positioning himself to catch a glimpse of Jesus.

In this moment, Jesus did something remarkable. He looked up, called Zacchaeus by name, and invited himself to Zacchaeus’ home. This simple act of reaching out to someone considered an outcast reveals Jesus’ heart for the individual. He sees beyond our circumstances and desires a personal relationship with each of us.

The Power of Solitude and Reflection

Zacchaeus’ story highlights the importance of solitude and reflection in our spiritual journey. By climbing the tree, Zacchaeus created a space to encounter Jesus away from the crowd’s judgment. In our own lives, finding moments of solitude allows us to hear God’s voice more clearly. When was the last time you paused to listen for God?

Solitude is not about isolation but about creating an environment where we can connect with God. It’s in these quiet moments that we can reflect on our lives, recognize our need for change, and respond to Jesus’ invitation to draw closer to Him.

Responding to Jesus’ Call

Zacchaeus’ response to Jesus was immediate and joyful. He came down from the tree and welcomed Jesus into his home, choosing to ignore the crowd’s murmurs. This act of faith led to a profound transformation. Zacchaeus pledged to give half of his possessions to the poor and repay anyone he had wronged fourfold. His actions demonstrated a heart changed by grace.

Like Zacchaeus, we are called to respond to Jesus’ invitation. Whether it’s overcoming past mistakes or letting go of pride, Jesus meets us in our mess and offers a path to redemption. What is your response to Jesus’ call today?

Practical Steps to Embrace Hope

1. Create Space for Solitude: Set aside time each day to be alone with God. Use this time for prayer, reflection, and listening.
2. Seek Community: Surround yourself with others who encourage your spiritual growth. Share your journey and learn from one another.
3. Act on Your Faith: Like Zacchaeus, let your faith lead to action. Consider how you can serve others and make amends where needed.

A Call to Action

As we reflect on Zacchaeus’ story, let us be inspired to embrace the hope and transformation Jesus offers. Whether you’re exploring faith for the first time or seeking to deepen your relationship with God, know that Jesus is calling you by name. Will you respond?

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for meeting us where we are and calling us into a deeper relationship with You. Help us to create space for solitude and reflection, to hear Your voice clearly. May we respond to Your call with joy and faith, just as Zacchaeus did. Transform our hearts and guide us to live out Your love in our daily lives. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

By embracing these steps and reflecting on Zacchaeus’ story, we can find hope and purpose in our spiritual journey. Let this be a season of transformation and renewed faith as we draw closer to Jesus, our living hope.

In the heart of the Gospel lies a profound truth that is often misunderstood, even within church walls. At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are reminded that grace is not about our perfection but about Jesus’ unconditional love. This message is beautifully illustrated in the story of Zacchaeus, a man whose life was transformed by an encounter with Jesus.

The Distortion of Grace

Many people believe they must “get right” with God by fixing their own lives before approaching Him. This distortion of grace suggests that we need to be perfect to receive God’s love. However, the Gospel tells a different story. Romans 5:8 states, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Jesus meets us in our mess, offering grace that transcends our imperfections.

This misconception can lead to a cycle of guilt and shame, where individuals feel unworthy of God’s love. Yet, the story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19 is a powerful reminder that Jesus seeks us out, regardless of our past or present circumstances. Zacchaeus, a tax collector despised by society, was not beyond the reach of Jesus’ love. Jesus’ approach to Zacchaeus shows us that grace is not about our worthiness but about God’s unconditional love.

Jesus’ Unconditional Love

The phrase “Jesus loves” is often followed by conditions or qualifiers, but the truth is simple and profound: Jesus loves—period. This love is not contingent upon our actions or our ability to clean up our lives. It is a love that meets us where we are and invites us into a transformative relationship.

In John 3:16, we read, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” This verse encapsulates the essence of the Gospel: God’s love is available to all, regardless of their past or present.

Our Response to Grace

At Lakeview Christian Church, we are called to “Be the change as Jesus has changed us.” This means embracing grace and allowing it to transform our lives. We are encouraged to study the Bible, share our faith, and serve others, reflecting the love of Christ in all we do.

Studying Scripture helps us understand the depth of God’s love and the grace He offers. Sharing our faith allows us to build relationships and extend the same grace to others. Serving others is a tangible expression of our faith, demonstrating the love of Christ in action.

Conclusion

The Gospel is a message of grace, not perfection. Jesus meets us where we are, offering love and acceptance. As we embrace this truth, we are empowered to live out our faith and share the hope we have found in Jesus. Let us remember that grace is not something we earn but a gift we receive, and let us extend that grace to others as we live out our mission at Lakeview Christian Church.

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook the simple yet profound act of giving thanks. As highlighted in a recent sermon at Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, the story of the one leper who returned to thank Jesus serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of gratitude. This single act of returning to give thanks not only changed the leper’s life but also offers us a blueprint for daily living.

Start Your Day with Gratitude

How often do we pause to thank God for the gift of a new day? Each morning, as we place our feet on the floor, we have an opportunity to express gratitude for the life and breath we’ve been given. This simple act of acknowledging God’s blessings can set a positive tone for the day ahead. As Psalm 118:24 reminds us, “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

End Your Day with Reflection

Before we close our eyes at night, it’s important to reflect on the day and thank God for His guidance and provision. This practice not only fosters a heart of gratitude but also prepares us to be a blessing to others. As we rest, we can ask God to renew our strength for the coming day, echoing the words of Psalm 4:8, “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.”

Strengthen Relationships Through Gratitude

Gratitude isn’t just about our relationship with God; it also extends to those around us. Whether it’s a spouse, parent, friend, or teacher, expressing thanks can strengthen and deepen our relationships. As Colossians 3:15 encourages, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”

Be the Change: Study, Share, Serve

At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, our mission is to “Be the change as Jesus has changed us.” We do this through “Just 3”: Study, Share, Serve. By studying God’s Word, sharing our gratitude with others, and serving our community, we embody the transformative power of gratitude in action.

Conclusion

Gratitude is more than a fleeting feeling; it’s a daily practice that can transform our lives and the lives of those around us. As we cultivate a habit of thankfulness, we draw closer to God and reflect His love to the world. Let us be like the one leper who returned, giving thanks and experiencing true transformation.

The parable of the great banquet, as discussed in the sermon at Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, reveals the abundance of God’s kingdom. Despite rejection, God’s response is to invite more people to experience His glory and the fruits of the Spirit. This message aligns with our mission to “Be the change as Jesus has changed us,” as we seek to live out the abundance of God’s love in our daily lives.

The Master’s Response: An Invitation to All

In Luke 14:21, the master responds to rejection by inviting the marginalized and the outcasts. This reflects God’s heart for inclusivity and His desire for everyone to experience His love and grace. Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These fruits are evidence of a life transformed by the Holy Spirit and are available to all who accept God’s invitation.

The Abundance of God’s Kingdom

God’s banquet is a metaphor for the spiritual abundance available to us. When we accept His invitation, we gain access to the fruits of the Spirit, which provide true fulfillment and joy. This abundance is a stark contrast to the fleeting satisfaction offered by wealth and status. John 10:10 reminds us, “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” This abundant life is not about material wealth but about experiencing the fullness of God’s love and grace.

Study: Understanding the Fruits of the Spirit

To fully embrace the abundance of God’s kingdom, we must study and understand the fruits of the Spirit. By delving into scriptures like Galatians 5:22-23, we learn how these fruits manifest in our lives and how they can impact our relationships and communities. At Lakeview, we encourage everyone to engage in regular Bible study as part of our “Just 3” approach: Study, Share, Serve. By studying God’s Word, we gain insight into how to cultivate these fruits in our lives.

Share: Spreading the Abundance

Sharing the fruits of the Spirit with others is a natural response to experiencing God’s abundance. By living out love, joy, peace, and other fruits, we become a testament to God’s transformative power. This is an essential part of our mission to know and love others. Matthew 5:16 encourages us, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”

Serve: Living Out the Fruits of the Spirit

Service is a tangible expression of the fruits of the Spirit. At Lakeview, we believe in serving others as an expression of love in action. Whether it’s volunteering in the community or helping a neighbor in need, serving allows us to put our faith into action. 1 Peter 4:10 reminds us, “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” By serving, we demonstrate the abundance of God’s kingdom and fulfill our mission to “Be the change as Jesus has changed us.”

Conclusion The invitation to God’s banquet is an invitation to experience His abundance. At Lakeview Christian Church, we encourage you to accept this invitation and live out the fruits of the Spirit in your daily life. Join us as we study, share, and serve, embracing the fullness of God’s kingdom. Together, we can make a difference in our community and beyond, reflecting the love and grace of our Savior.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to let good things become idols in our lives. The sermon at Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes challenges us to examine our priorities and ensure that God remains at the center of our lives. This is a crucial aspect of our mission to “Be the change as Jesus has changed us.” By keeping God first, we align our lives with His will and experience true fulfillment.

The Danger of Misplaced Priorities

The parable of the great banquet highlights how people often prioritize wealth, work, and relationships over God’s invitation. These things are inherently good, but when they take precedence over God, they become idols. Exodus 20:3 warns us, “You shall have no other gods before me.” This commandment is a reminder that God desires our full devotion and that anything that takes His place in our hearts is an idol.

An Idol Check: Who Do You Worship?

Tim Keller offers a practical way to assess our priorities: “Show me where you spend your time, your money, and your energy, and I will introduce you to your Lord.” This self-assessment can be eye-opening, revealing areas where we may need to realign our focus. It’s important to regularly evaluate our lives and ask ourselves, “Who or what am I truly worshiping?” By doing so, we can identify idols and take steps to remove them.

Study: Aligning with God’s Priorities

By studying scriptures like Matthew 6:33, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you,” we learn to prioritize God’s kingdom above all else. This study helps us keep our lives in alignment with His will. At Lakeview, we encourage everyone to engage in regular Bible study as part of our “Just 3” approach: Study, Share, Serve. By immersing ourselves in God’s Word, we gain clarity and direction for our lives.

Share: Encouraging Others to Prioritize God

Sharing our journey of prioritizing God can inspire others to do the same. By being open about our struggles and victories, we create a supportive community where people feel encouraged to seek God first. This is an essential part of our mission to know and love others. Hebrews 10:24-25 reminds us, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another.”

Serve: Demonstrating God’s Priority in Action

Service is a powerful way to demonstrate that God is our priority. By serving others, we show that we value God’s command to love our neighbors as ourselves. Whether it’s volunteering at a local shelter or helping a friend in need, serving allows us to put our faith into action. James 2:17 reminds us, “So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” At Lakeview, we believe in serving as a reflection of our commitment to God.

Conclusion At Lakeview Christian Church, we strive to “Be the change as Jesus has changed us” by keeping God at the forefront of our lives. We invite you to join us in this journey of self-assessment and realignment, ensuring that our lives reflect our worship of the one true God. By studying His Word, sharing our experiences, and serving others, we can live out our faith in a way that honors God and impacts the world around us.

Have you ever felt like you’re not on the guest list for life’s most important events? Imagine receiving an invitation to a grand banquet, only to find out that the guest list is not what you expected. This is the heart of Jesus’ parable in Luke 14, where He challenges our understanding of who is welcome at God’s table.

The Unexpected Guest List

In Luke 14, Jesus is dining at the house of a Pharisee, a respected religious leader. As He observes the guests scrambling for the best seats, He shares a parable that flips societal norms on their head. Jesus tells us that in God’s Kingdom, the guest list is not filled with the elite or the influential, but with the humble and the overlooked. He urges us to invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind—those who cannot repay us. This radical invitation reflects God’s grace, which is extended to all, regardless of status or ability to reciprocate.

Excuses and Idols

Jesus’ parable also highlights the excuses people make to avoid accepting God’s invitation. One man is too preoccupied with his possessions, another with his work, and yet another with his relationships. These excuses reveal the idols in our lives—possessions, productivity, and people—that can distract us from God’s call. Jesus warns that when these things take precedence over our relationship with God, they become barriers to experiencing His grace.

The Transformative Garment

In Matthew 22, a similar parable introduces the concept of a wedding garment, symbolizing the righteousness of Christ. This garment is not something we can create ourselves; it is a gift from God. Accepting the invitation to God’s banquet means embracing this transformation. It’s not enough to simply show up; we must allow God to change us from the inside out. This transformation is evidence of true salvation, where grace and righteousness go hand in hand.

Practical Steps to Embrace God’s Invitation

1. Choose Humility: Approach life with a humble heart, trusting God’s perspective over your own. Let God lift you up in His time and for His purpose.
2. Identify and Release Idols: Reflect on what might be taking God’s place in your life. Is it your career, your possessions, or even your relationships? Surrender these to God and prioritize His mission.
3. Accept the Garment of Righteousness: Embrace the transformation that comes with following Christ. Allow His righteousness to clothe you, changing how you live and interact with the world.
4. Compel Others to Join: Share the invitation with others. Live in a way that reflects God’s love and grace, urging others to experience the joy and peace found at His table.

A Prayer for Transformation

Heavenly Father, thank You for inviting us to Your table of grace. Help us to approach You with humility, releasing the idols that distract us from Your presence. Clothe us in the righteousness of Christ, transforming our hearts and lives. May we be bold in sharing Your invitation with others, reflecting Your love and grace in all we do. Amen.

The banquet is ready, and the invitation is open to all. Whether you feel too far gone or too distracted by life’s demands, God’s grace is sufficient. Come as you are, and let His love transform you. Are you ready to accept the invitation?

At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are continually reminded of the profound invitation God extends to each of us—a call to experience His abundant provision and everlasting covenant. As we delve into the teachings of Isaiah 55:1-3, we find a powerful message that resonates with the parables of Jesus, particularly the invitation to the great banquet.

Isaiah’s Invitation: A Call to True Satisfaction

Isaiah 55:1-3 beckons us with an invitation that transcends the material and temporal. “Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price” (Isaiah 55:1, ESV). This passage speaks to the heart of God’s generosity, offering sustenance and satisfaction that cannot be purchased with earthly wealth.

The prophet Isaiah challenges us to reconsider where we seek fulfillment. “Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy?” (Isaiah 55:2, ESV). In a world that often prioritizes material gain and temporary pleasures, God invites us to find true delight in Him. By inclining our ears and coming to Him, we are promised an everlasting covenant—a steadfast love that echoes His promise to David.

The Parable of the Great Banquet: An Invitation to Dine with Jesus

In the parable of the great banquet, Jesus extends a similar invitation. He calls individuals from various walks of life to join Him at a feast, yet many offer excuses—money, family, and other worldly concerns—that prevent them from accepting His invitation. These excuses, while seemingly valid, rob them of the opportunity to dine with Jesus and experience the fullness of His provision.

This parable challenges us to examine our own lives. What excuses do we make that keep us from fully embracing God’s invitation? Are we prioritizing temporary concerns over eternal fulfillment? Jesus invites us to set aside these distractions and come to the table where every need is met, and every longing is satisfied.

Living Out the Invitation: Study, Share, Serve

At Lakeview, our mission to “Be the Change as Jesus has Changed Us” is lived out through our “Just 3” approach: Study, Share, and Serve. By studying God’s Word, we deepen our understanding of His invitation and align our hearts with His will. Sharing His love with others allows us to extend the invitation to those around us, inviting them to experience the joy and fulfillment found in Christ. Serving others becomes an expression of love in action, reflecting the heart of Jesus, who came to serve and give His life for us.

Conclusion: Embracing God’s Abundant Provision

The invitation from Isaiah and the parable of the great banquet remind us that true fulfillment is found in God alone. As we respond to His call, we are invited to partake in His abundant provision and experience the richness of His love. At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are committed to living out this invitation, encouraging one another to study, share, and serve as we journey together in faith.

Let us embrace the invitation to dine with Jesus, setting aside excuses and distractions, and delighting in the everlasting covenant He offers. As we do so, we become a testament to His transformative power, inviting others to join us at the table of grace.

At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we embrace the transformative power of Christ’s love. Our mission, “Be the change as Jesus has changed us,” is rooted in the understanding that Jesus meets us where we are but loves us too much to leave us there. This message is beautifully illustrated in the parable of the great banquet, where Jesus invites us to come as we are. This invitation is not just a call to attend a feast but a call to experience a life-changing relationship with Him.

The Invitation to Transformation

In the sermon, we are reminded that Jesus invites everyone to His banquet, regardless of their current state. Whether you feel too broken, too proud, or too lost, Jesus calls you to come as you are. This invitation is a promise that He will not leave you in your mess. As Matthew 11:28-30 says, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” This rest is not merely physical but a deep spiritual peace that only Jesus can provide.

The Promise of Change

Jesus’ love is not passive; it is active and transformative. He promises to walk with us through our depression, anxiety, and fears. He sees our brokenness and offers healing and hope. This is the essence of our mission at Lakeview: to be changed by Jesus and to be agents of change in the world. Romans 12:2 encourages us, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.” This transformation is a continuous process, one that requires us to surrender our lives to Christ daily.

Study: Embracing God’s Word

To truly experience this transformation, we must immerse ourselves in God’s Word. Scriptures like 2 Corinthians 5:17 remind us, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” By studying the Bible, we learn to trust in God’s promises and allow His love to reshape our lives. At Lakeview, we encourage everyone to engage in regular Bible study as part of our “Just 3” approach: Study, Share, Serve.

Share: Extending the Invitation

Sharing the love of Christ is a natural response to experiencing His transformative power. We are called to extend the invitation to others, just as Jesus has invited us. This means reaching out to those who feel unworthy or distant from God and showing them the love and acceptance that Jesus offers. By sharing our testimonies and the Gospel, we fulfill our mission to know and love others.

Serve: Living Out the Change

Service is a tangible expression of the change that Jesus brings into our lives. At Lakeview, we believe in serving others as a reflection of Christ’s love. Whether it’s volunteering in the community or helping a neighbor in need, serving allows us to put our faith into action. Galatians 5:13 reminds us, “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.”

Conclusion The invitation to the banquet is open to all. Jesus’ love is a powerful force that can transform our lives if we let it. At Lakeview Christian Church, we encourage you to accept this invitation and experience the change that only Jesus can bring. Join us in our mission to “Be the change as Jesus has changed us” by studying His Word, sharing His love, and serving others. Together, we can make a difference in our community and beyond.