Introduction

Welcome to week 3 of our From the Ashes Sermon Series as we take a 6-week journey to the cross together. Each week we are looking at a different aspect of Jesus’ life and ministry during His time here on earth. Each week we are getting a glimpse into the abundant life possible in and through Christ.

In week one we discussed temptation and last week we tackled Christ-like humility together. This week we take a look at one of Jesus’ most powerful habits; contemplation, or being still and quiet with God.

Most everyone I know wishes they had a more devoted, more powerful, and purposeful prayer life. One of the major issues we all share is the busy pace of life and constant stimulation we experience. All of this seriously impedes our ability to slow down.

To be honest, it just feels awkward to be still.

To be honest, it just feels awkward to be still.

Main Teaching

Before we get too deep today, I want to first draw attention to one of the terms I’m using. I’m using the word contemplation to describe a behavior we see modeled in the Bible. I’m using it to describe a peaceful, silent, calm place of prayer in the life of a believer.

For example, I think about Mark 1:35, where we see Jesus walk off into the desert early in the morning to be alone in prayer. (Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.) Did Jesus sit in silence? Did He sing? Did He bring a laundry list of items with Him? Did He pray through His favorite Psalms? We don’t know, but when I think about contemplation, stillness, and connecting with God I think about this verse, and it moves me.

Honestly, who doesn’t want a powerful and purposeful prayer life? Who doesn’t want all the fullness and adventure a life of discipleship offers? Listen to the way Richard Foster describes prayer;

Prayer is an essential part of the adventure ... View this full sermon with PRO Premium