John 15:9-11, Philippians 4:4
(sermon outline for Sunday March 29)
Followers of Jesus can celebrate God’s goodness and grace throughout the seasons of life.
- Celebration brings true joy into focus.
The Christian should be an alleluia from head to foot.
-Augustine of Hippo
- Genuine celebration arises out of obedience.
If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father's commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.
John 15:10-11 NIV
- Celebration promotes numerous life benefits.
- Creates an aura of festivity.
- Brings a spirit of healing and refreshing.
- Helps us to relax and enjoy the good things of the earth.
- Can be an effective antidote for sadness and melancholy.
- Gives a sense of balance and perspective.
- Frees us from self-importance.
- Leads to more celebration.
- Celebration energizes us to live the other disciplines.
Celebration gives us the strength to live in all the other Disciplines. When faithfully pursued, the other Disciplines bring us deliverance from those things that have made our lives miserable for years which, in turn, evokes increased celebration. Thus, an unbroken circle of life and power is formed. -Richard Foster
Celebration is never a denial that life has its challenges. Rather, celebration is a confession that every challenge is temporary, the grace of God is sufficient, and our future is secure in Christ.
