Saturday, May 16, 2026

Worship into the Week- In HIM


 Worship into the Week-
Acts 17:16-31 
In HIM
 Rather amazing timing this week to be at Mars Hill in Greece 
the same week as this lectionary reading for worship.
Here we are at the base of the steps that Paul would have used
 to reach the top. They are no longer used because of erosion
 and in trying to preserve them.
                                                                                              May 11, 2025

Paul's sermon with the Areopagus gathered at Mars Hill fully combines all the techniques that Paul effectively used for 
spreading the Gospel message. It was an advanced class level 
on how to meet people exactly where they are culturally, 
intellectually and spiritually.
Paul was overwhelmed with the staggering amount 
of idols and corrupt gods in Athens. 
His heart was heavy for the people there.
As was his method, he went to the synogogue 
to meet the Jewish people there.
But, he soon ventured into the marketplace, 
and the bustling center of activity.

Here is the view from Mars Hill, 
and you can see the ancient Agora 
with pillars (mid photo to the left).
This is where Paul hung out to strike up a 
conversation at every opportunity.
He didn't begin by blasting them for their ways,
 but worked with something familiar- the Unknown God. 
He found the common language
 and a place to start that made sense to all of them.
He then focused on a Creator God who doesn't
 need man-made things.
This Sovereign ruler determines all things and He desires 
that we would seek Him and establish our lives in Him.
God has commanded that repentance is in order because
 a day is set to judge the world. 
That has been set in motion with Jesus-
 who God raised from the dead.

Here is Mars Hill from up on the Acropolis. It
 is fairly close to this landmark of Athens.
Oh may many be drawn to this God- 
in whom we live and move and have our being.
Let us seek out the common ground 
and not fear meeting people right where they are.

Blessed to travel with my brother Kim
 and sister in law Gina.

Visual Faith Printable
Recycled envelope
Marker
Washi Tape






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