Familiarity breeds contempt. This is a well-known proverb that may or may not prove to be true. A more accurate proverbial saying could be, “Familiarity breeds boredom.”

I stated this morning that I think this is one of the greatest barriers to faith in our culture. We hear a lot about Jesus, we spend time in church, we hear the music, we attend the special events and the studies, and unfortunately, we get so “used to” Jesus that he becomes one among many.

The reality is that Jesus stands apart from all others. The Bible reveals Him as the powerful, glorious, exalted Son of God.

The question is, “How do we continue to grow, not only in knowledge of Christ, but in wonder and awe of who he is?” I think it starts in a place of simplicity…asking Him to open your eyes. Remember that we are always in need of God’s grace to reveal himself to us through his word and through the person of Jesus.

Take some time this week to think some more about Mark 6:1-6. Learn the importance of continually treasuring Christ by observing how Jesus’ neighbors failed to do this very thing. The household worship guide below will help you think some more about the text and its implications.

Household Worship Guide Mark 6:1-6

Make sure you check out the video that is a part of the “Worship Through Song” portion of the Household Worship Guide.

It is a tremendous comfort to rest in the fact that Jesus knows so much more than I do. I know what you are saying. “Duh, of course Jesus knows more than you, Eric. In fact, most people do.” While this latter point may be true, I am choosing to ignore the fact that you said it.

What I am going to focus on is the fact that no matter what is happening to me, and no matter how many questions I may have about the whats and the whys, Jesus knows all. I also find comfort in knowing that Jesus is powerful to do whatever he wills. Finally, he cares enough about me to give me more than I could ever expect.

If you are like me, you are 6 ft 7 in tall…or maybe our similarity actually lies in the fact that we are full of doubts. I can trust Jesus one minute, and then shake in my shoes and wonder if Jesus loves me the next minute. Today, in Mark 5:21-43, it was so good to see again that no matter the state of my wavering faith, Jesus knows, he is able, and he cares. When I see this and I hear his challenge to “not fear, but to keep on believing,” I find courage and comfort in Him alone.

Below you will find the Household Worship Guide for this week. Take time to go through it as an individual or as a family.

Household Worship Guide- Mark 5:21-43

It was a joy to preach in Nehemiah 8 this morning. I loved the way God’s people were so eager for God’s word. Even more so, I loved to see how the people were expected to rejoice in light of the revelation of God.

It made me think about how often I grieve when I should be rejoicing. I grieve over so many things, and yet fail to rejoice in the gospel nearly as much as it warrants.

May God move in us as he moved in the Israelites under the leadership of Ezra and Nehemiah. May we rejoice knowing the the joy of the Lord is our strength.

This week’s Household Worship Guide is available below.

Nehemiah 8- Household Worship Guide