Reformation
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ;
The History Channel provides history buffs with a smorgasbord of people, places, and events that have shaped human history. Each day of the year is filled with events through the ages that impacted to varying levels the lives of countless people. I checked on October 31 to see what the History Channel noted as significant events. Sure enough, the first event noted was Dr. Martin Luther's posting of the 95 Theses on the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany. I wonder how many people even give this event a second thought. Probably not very many; since through the years I seldom have anyone say to me, "Hey, next week we will celebrate Reformation Day!!!" October 31 marks the date for the first Toyota Dealership in the USA (1957). I know lots of people that own a Toyota. Houdini died on this date (1926). Magicians, especially escape artists, captivate the attention of many of us. The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes was published in 1892. We all love a good crime solving mystery! Earl Floyd became the first black basketball player in the NBA (1950). We thank God that people were able to respect skill and desire over the color of a man's skin. In 1963, Ed Sullivan witnessed first-hand Beatlemania. Many in America were deeply influenced by the music fueled by the Beatles during the 60's.
As I think about how relevant these events are today, I look around and see lots of Toyotas on the road. I hear Beatles' music played all the time on the radio. I just saw the other day a biography of Houdini. Basketball has continued to be successfully integrated at all levels from high school through the pros. Every now and then I see someone with a copy of The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes. However, the Reformation seems to be taken for granted at best; often completely ignored by most of us in America today.
As Christians, we must never cease to treasure the relevance of the Protestant Reformation. The Protestant Reformation centers around the three great truths of: scripture alone, grace of God, and faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. The Reformers of the 1500's called God's people back to the authority of scripture. They comforted souls with the great biblical truth that God's grace has been showered upon us through faith in Jesus Christ our precious Savior and Lord. The Holy Spirit inspired words of the Apostle Paul resound throughout the Reformation: "For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works that no one should boast." (Ephesians 2) As we prepare to celebrate Reformation Sunday, this year on Sunday, October 30th; we give thanks to God that out of His divine love for us a Savior was sent who has redeemed us eternally from sin, death, and the power of the devil. Thanks be to God for the Reformation that offered hurting souls comfort, assurance, and blessed peace in knowing they were truly loved, forgiven and destined for heaven because of Jesus Christ's death and resurrection.
A blessed Reformation to each of you,
Pastor Michael McFarland
