In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, the search for peace often feels like a never-ending quest. Whether through diet, exercise, or even prayer, we strive to find that elusive sense of tranquility. This week at Riverwood, Erin, our teaching pastor, delved into the topic of peace, drawing intriguing parallels between our spiritual journey and the chaotic world of video games.
Erin began by sharing his personal experiences with video games, describing them as chaotic and confusing, especially when watching others play. He humorously recounted the bizarre elements of games like Pac-Man, Fortnite, Halo, Smash Bros, and Rocket League. Imagining these elements in real life, Erin highlighted how people often seek "star power"—a sense of invincibility and peace—through various means.
Erin pointed out that this longing for peace and invincibility is not new. It dates back to the time of Adam and Eve, who sought their own form of "star power." Last week's sermon focused on hope, acknowledging that things aren't as they should be. This week, Erin shifted the focus to peace, especially during the Advent season leading up to Christmas.
Erin invited the congregation to open their Bibles to Psalm 29, a passage that vividly describes the powerful and majestic voice of the Lord. The psalm portrays God's voice as thunderous, breaking cedars, shaking the wilderness, and stripping forests bare. Despite its seemingly unpeaceful nature, the psalm concludes with a prayer for the Lord to give strength and peace to His people.
Erin emphasized that David, the author of the psalm, found peace in God's voice because it was the voice of a God who knew him and was for him. David trusted God's voice because it had saved him from King Saul, helped him defeat Goliath, protected him from lions, and declared him king. For David, the safest place was under God's powerful and loving voice.
Erin stressed that God's voice is heard through His Word, and reading the Bible is a way to hear God speak. Some people lack peace because they avoid or ignore God's Word, which can be uncomfortable or counter-cultural. However, making time for God's Word is essential for finding peace. The Bible is not a magic totem; peace comes from being in God's Word and trusting in His promises.
Erin reminded us that God has spoken promises which He has kept and will keep. The coming of the Messiah is one such promise that gives us confidence and peace. Christians have the assurance that Jesus will come again, providing peace and the promise of eternity with God. This full relationship with God, seeing the Father in all His glory, is a source of profound peace.
God's voice also convicts, and Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to indwell believers and convict the world of sin. While conviction can be awkward and painful, running from it does not bring peace. Embracing God's voice, even when it convicts, leads to new growth and peace. God's voice also speaks words of love, rejoicing over believers with gladness and singing, as seen in Zephaniah 3:17.
Erin concluded by affirming that peace is found in Christ, celebrated during Advent. He prayed for listeners to hear God's voice, whether of conviction or love, and find peace in Him. Erin prayed for those feeling unloved, stressed, and worried, asking that they hear God's voice of love and support. He also prayed for those who haven't surrendered their life to God, asking that they hear God's invitation to give their life to Him.
Erin concluded the service by introducing a song and communion. He explained Riverwood's practice of open communion, inviting all who believe in Jesus' story to participate. For non-believers, Erin encouraged them to converse with God and seek the truth about Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. He invited believers to approach God's throne with confidence and remember His sacrifice.
In this season of Advent, may we all find peace in the powerful and loving voice of God, trusting in His promises and embracing His Word.
