The signal
From the Pulpit
Isaiah 11 speaks of the root of Jesse who will provide a signal to the world. The root of Jesse is none other than Jesus, descended from Jesse according to His human nature. His divine nature holds the universe in place while His human nature is conceived in the womb of Mary. There He signals His ultimate concern for you!
Traffic signals at intersections save lives and keep order. Green, yellow, and red are telling us critical information. Paying attention to the signal is a matter of life and death. My high school driving instructor used to say that driving through a yellow signal was the point of no return. We often flirt with disaster!
Running a red light can mean disaster and destruction, even for drivers who did not commit the traffic misdeed.
Jesus is the signal to the world. His signal is the manger, the cross, and the empty tomb. Jesus did not commit any sin or misdeed. However, He was run over by your ugliness. He was run over because of your careless and callous deeds. For all of God’s signals that you have disregarded, Jesus was crudely crucified and killed.
Jesus’ signal to you is unconditional love. His green light is the cradle and the cross for you. To you, wallowing in worry, guilt, and fear, the Savior’s signal of mercy is your cover. He has you covered in His own righteousness, innocence, and blessedness.
His signal remains for you. A Savior has been born lived, died, and rose for you! What a signal! Live under His grace, knowing that He has protected you again and again, without you even knowing
See you Sunday.
(The Rev. Kent Puls serves both Grace Lutheran and Mammoth Lakes Lutheran churches. Grace Lutheran Church is located at 711 N. Fowler St. Bishop. Sunday services are at 10:45 a.m. For more information, call (760) 872-9791.)