Becoming Who We Are: Embracing Divine Encounters
Summary
In today's gathering, we explored the profound truth that life is not merely about what we do, but about who we become. Through a personal story at H-E-B, we were reminded of the importance of being present in the moment and recognizing the divine in everyday encounters. An older gentleman shared a poignant insight: every moment is a gift, and it's a privilege to be alive and waiting, even in mundane situations. This encounter led to a deeper reflection on how we often label ourselves and others, limiting our potential and overlooking the transformative power of God's grace.
We delved into the story of Thomas, often labeled as "Doubting Thomas," to challenge the labels we place on ourselves and others. Thomas's journey from doubt to faith illustrates that our past does not define us; rather, it prepares us for who we can become. Jesus's interaction with Thomas teaches us that faith is a personal journey, and we must experience God for ourselves. The question is not "What do you want to be?" but "Who do you want to be?" This shift in perspective encourages us to focus on character and integrity, which are eternal, rather than temporary achievements.
The sermon also highlighted the concept of "Sneaky Jesus," who shows up in unexpected ways and places, reminding us that God's presence is often found in the ordinary. We are encouraged to remain open to these divine encounters and to recognize that God is continually working in our lives, even when it doesn't seem obvious. The message concluded with a call to embrace the transformative power of communion, where we pray to become more like Christ, embodying His love and grace in our daily lives.
Key Takeaways:
- Presence in the Moment: Life's true value lies in being present where your feet are, recognizing that every moment is a gift from God. This awareness allows us to see the divine in everyday situations and appreciate the privilege of being alive. [37:26]
- Labels and Identity: We often limit ourselves and others with labels, but God sees beyond these. Our past does not define us; it prepares us for who we can become. Embrace the journey of becoming who God calls you to be. [45:23]
- Faith as a Personal Journey: Like Thomas, we must experience God for ourselves. Faith is not inherited; it is a personal journey that requires us to seek and encounter God in our own lives. [01:01:23]
- Sneaky Jesus: God's presence is often found in the ordinary and unexpected. Be open to divine encounters in everyday life, recognizing that God is continually working in ways we may not immediately see. [01:31:01]
- Transformation through Communion: Communion is a powerful reminder of our call to become more like Christ. It is an invitation to experience God's forgiveness and grace, transforming us into His likeness. [01:38:18]
Youtube Chapters:
[00:00] - Welcome
[21:03] - Announcements and Greetings
[23:51] - H-E-B Encounter
[35:01] - The Gift of Waiting
[36:08] - Complaints and Realizations
[37:26] - Presence in the Moment
[41:05] - Who Do You Want to Be?
[45:23] - Labels and Identity
[46:17] - Doubting Thomas
[47:47] - Jesus Appears to Thomas
[50:40] - Hypocrite Hunter
[54:23] - Women and Faith
[59:05] - Honest Thomas
[01:01:23] - Experiencing God
[01:31:01] - Sneaky Jesus
[01:38:18] - Communion and Transformation
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
- John 20:24-31
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Observation Questions:
1. In the story of Thomas, what was his initial reaction to the other disciples' claim that they had seen the Lord? How did his response change after his encounter with Jesus? [46:50]
2. During the sermon, the pastor shared a personal story about an encounter at H-E-B. What was the significant lesson learned from the older gentleman in the story? [37:26]
3. How does the sermon describe the concept of "Sneaky Jesus," and what are some examples given of Jesus showing up in unexpected ways? [01:31:01]
4. What question did the older gentleman at H-E-B ask that shifted the pastor's perspective on life and identity? [41:05]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does Thomas's journey from doubt to faith illustrate the idea that our past does not define us but prepares us for who we can become? [46:50]
2. The sermon emphasizes the importance of being present in the moment. How does this concept relate to recognizing the divine in everyday situations? [37:26]
3. What does the sermon suggest about the labels we place on ourselves and others, and how does this impact our identity and potential? [45:23]
4. How does the concept of "Sneaky Jesus" challenge our expectations of how and where we might encounter God in our daily lives? [01:31:01]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a recent moment when you were not fully present. How can you practice being more present in your daily interactions this week? [37:26]
2. Consider a label you or others have placed on you that limits your potential. How can you begin to see yourself as God sees you, beyond that label? [45:23]
3. Like Thomas, what personal experiences or encounters with God have strengthened your faith? How can you seek more of these experiences? [46:50]
4. Think about a time when you encountered God in an unexpected place or situation. How can you remain open to these "Sneaky Jesus" moments in your life? [01:31:01]
5. During communion, we are reminded of our call to become more like Christ. What specific steps can you take this week to embody Christ's love and grace in your interactions with others? [01:38:18]
6. The sermon challenges us to focus on who we want to become rather than what we want to do. What character traits or values do you want to develop, and how can you work towards them this month? [41:05]
7. How can you create space in your life to experience God personally, rather than relying solely on the faith of others? What changes might you need to make to prioritize this personal journey? [01:01:23]
Devotional
Day 1: Embracing the Present Moment
Life's true value is found in being fully present, recognizing each moment as a divine gift. In our fast-paced world, it's easy to overlook the beauty and significance of the present. Yet, every moment offers an opportunity to encounter the divine, even in the mundane. An older gentleman's insight at H-E-B reminds us that waiting is not just a pause but a privilege. By being present, we open ourselves to the transformative power of God's grace, seeing His hand in everyday situations. This awareness allows us to appreciate the privilege of being alive and to recognize the divine in our daily lives. [37:26]
"Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil." (Ephesians 5:15-16, ESV)
Reflection: Think of a routine task you often rush through. How can you slow down and invite God's presence into that moment today?
Day 2: Beyond Labels and Limitations
We often confine ourselves and others with labels, but God sees beyond these limitations. Our past does not define us; it prepares us for who we can become. The story of Thomas, often labeled as "Doubting Thomas," challenges us to reconsider the labels we place on ourselves and others. Thomas's journey from doubt to faith illustrates that our identity is not fixed by our past but is shaped by God's transformative grace. Embrace the journey of becoming who God calls you to be, free from the constraints of labels. [45:23]
"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." (Ephesians 2:10, ESV)
Reflection: Identify a label you've placed on yourself or someone else. How can you begin to see beyond this label and embrace God's vision for transformation?
Day 3: Faith as a Personal Journey
Faith is not inherited; it is a personal journey that requires us to seek and encounter God in our own lives. Like Thomas, we must experience God for ourselves, moving from doubt to a deeper faith. Jesus's interaction with Thomas teaches us that faith is a personal journey, and we must be open to experiencing God in our unique way. This journey invites us to ask, "Who do you want to be?" rather than "What do you want to be?" as we focus on character and integrity, which are eternal. [01:01:23]
"Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." (Hebrews 11:1, ESV)
Reflection: Reflect on a moment when you experienced God personally. How can you seek a deeper encounter with Him in your current circumstances?
Day 4: Discovering God in the Ordinary
God's presence is often found in the ordinary and unexpected. We are encouraged to remain open to divine encounters in everyday life, recognizing that God is continually working in ways we may not immediately see. The concept of "Sneaky Jesus" reminds us that God often shows up in unexpected places, inviting us to be attentive to His presence in the ordinary. By being open to these encounters, we can experience the richness of God's work in our lives. [01:31:01]
"And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:20b, ESV)
Reflection: Think of a recent ordinary moment. How might God have been present in that situation, and how can you be more open to recognizing His presence in the future?
Day 5: Transformation through Communion
Communion is a powerful reminder of our call to become more like Christ. It is an invitation to experience God's forgiveness and grace, transforming us into His likeness. As we partake in communion, we are reminded of the transformative power of Christ's love and grace, calling us to embody His character in our daily lives. This sacred act invites us to reflect on our journey of becoming more like Christ, embracing His love and grace in all we do. [01:38:18]
"And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit." (2 Corinthians 3:18, ESV)
Reflection: As you prepare for your next communion, consider one area of your life where you need transformation. How can you invite Christ's grace to work in that area today?
Quotes
"Life is not so much about having and getting, but it's about being and becoming. Wow. And what if you worked as hard at becoming who God calls you to become as you do as acquiring stuff and money? Wow. Who would you be then if you really address that question?" [00:42:58] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"Who you become is character, integrity, a forgiver, a Christian, someone who loves. That's forever. There is a name tag you cannot take off. And that is who you become." [00:42:02] (13 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"Always be present where your feet are, spiritually, emotionally. Be present in conversations when you engage with people. Be fully present. So I'm fully present with this guy and he's crying. And so I ended up giving him a hug." [00:38:43] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"God doesn't define you by your worst mistake. Anyone? Who am I preaching to today? Like one person maybe. All right, come on. Thank God they came." [00:45:48] (10 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"Everyone has to experience Jesus for themselves. I can't give you my faith. I can talk about my faith. But it's my faith. I won't believe unless. That's what Thomas says. I won't believe unless." [01:02:45] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"Sometimes God shows up in aisle seven, and isn't it significant that God was in aisle seven? Because seven is a holy number. Seven is a number in the Bible that's significant." [01:32:49] (9 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"Jesus said, it's great to see it and believe it, but blessed are you if you really don't see me, but you still believe. And who is that? That's you and me." [01:18:31] (10 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"Becoming is never giving up on the idea that there's more growing to be done. That I could be a better husband next year. That I could be a better dad this year. That I could grow into that." [01:06:10] (11 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
"And some of the greatest times of your growth, of your becoming, will be the most difficult times. And you'll look back and you'll say, that's when I grew the most." [01:34:34] (9 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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