God Is: Week 3, October 22, 2017

In the mid-1900s Detroit, Michigan was one of America’s greatest cities.  Its population swelled to some 2 million.  Its industrial base, centered on the production of automobiles, made it affluent.  The architecture of the city reflected its optimism and wealth. 

 

But in more recent years its fortunes have changed.  People began to move out into the suburbs.  The population plummeted.  Buildings fell into disrepair and ruins.

 

The demise of Detroit was captured in a series of photos by a pair of Parisian photographers named Marchand and Maffre.  There’s a heavy sadness that these photos prompt (show photos).  The sadness arises from the chasm that exists between what once was and now is.

 

This morning we’re going to take a closer look at a majestic, ancient city that once stood proudly.  It enjoyed the blessings of heaven—Jerusalem, the city of David, the capital city of God’s people.  It gleamed with golden facades beneath the sun’s rays.  But that once mighty city fell tragically.  Thankfully, that fall was not the final chapter in its story.

 

The reason its fall was not its final chapter is because of the amazing faithfulness of our God.

 

Now you may wonder, “What does Detroit, much less an ancient city like Jerusalem, have to do with me?”   Good question.  I want you to consider whether they might be a parable of our own lives.  Is there a gap between what once was in your spiritual life and what now is?  If so, that doesn’t have to be the final chapter in your story.  In God we all have a future and hope!

 

God Is

“God Is Faithful”

Lamentations 3:21-24

 

Key verses: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness (3:22-23).

 

1. Great fall
   1. Rooted in disobedience
   2. Results in discipline
2. Greater faithfulness
   1. That is never-ending
   2. That is new
3. Greatest future
   1. Linked to a person
   2. Launched with a plea