Embracing a Year of Transformation: Following Jesus Through the Gospel of Matthew

As we step into the New Year, there’s a palpable excitement within our congregation. It’s not merely about turning the pages of the calendar. It’s about embarking on a journey through the Gospel of Matthew—a journey I believe God is calling us to take, and one that promises deep transformation for our church community and individual lives.

Many of us are familiar with the concept of a New Year’s resolution. We set goals, some lofty and others practical. However, as a church, we’re not stepping into 2023 with resolutions in the traditional sense. Our focus isn’t on doing more for Jesus but rather being with Him, knowing Him more deeply, and following Him more fully.

This journey through Matthew represents more than just another sermon series; it’s an open-ended invitation to walk slowly and attentively with Jesus. It’s about allowing ourselves to be shaped and molded by His life and teachings, which Matthew beautifully captures not merely as instructions, but as a biography of Jesus—a rich narrative inviting us to see the world through His eyes.

Discipleship is about surrendering to Jesus, obeying His commands, reflecting His goodness, and making other disciples. It's about transforming our lives around His presence—not trying to fit Him into our schedules but letting Him reshape our priorities and values.

In our opening services, reflecting on the passages of Matthew 4, where Jesus calls His first disciples, I've been reminded of the simplicity yet profound depth of His invitation: "Come, follow me." This isn’t about adding a new hobby or aligning with a political stance. It’s about a radical reordering of our lives around Him and His kingdom.

Throughout this journey, we’re going to take as much time as needed. We’re not rushing through chapters or seeking to conclude this study within a set timeframe because spiritual formation doesn’t conform to our schedules. Some weeks, we might focus on learning something new; other weeks, we might find ourselves challenged or comforted by the Scriptures. Each scripture will not only invite us to agree with Jesus but ask us a more profound question—will you follow?

By following this path, as a community, we are poised to see change—not just a more religious demeanor but an authentic likeness to Jesus that stems from understanding and inviting His spirit into every aspect of our being.

This is a journey through the Gospel of Matthew that will not just inform us but transform us. And as we gather Sunday after Sunday, pondering critical questions and engaging with Jesus's life, I am confident that He will surprise us, challenge us, and bless us in ways we never expected.

So, whether you are a seasoned believer or new to the faith, unsure and exploring, or someone who feels exhausted and overburdened, this invitation to "Come, follow Me" is extended to you. It’s an invitation to enter a life where Jesus is at the center—a life redefined by His love and grace.

Let us move forward with open hearts and ready spirits, embracing the journey ahead and trusting in the faithfulness of Jesus who has already gone before us.

Blessings,