HOPE IS HERE
LA ESPERANZA ESTA AQUI

“So God has given both His promise and His oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie. Therefore, we who have fled to him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us.” - Hebrews‬ ‭6:18‬ ‭
- - - - -
“Así que Dios ha hecho ambas cosas: la promesa y el juramento. Estas dos cosas no pueden cambiar, porque es imposible que Dios mienta. Por lo tanto, los que hemos acudido a él en busca de refugio podemos estar bien confiados aferrándonos a la esperanza que está delante de nosotros.” - Hebreos‬ ‭6:18‬ ‭
​THE COMMUNION “Stay Connected”
LA COMUNIÓN “Mantente Conectado”

[INTRODUCTION]
  • The Communion keeps us connected to God. 
  • Aside from the Word of God, prayer and worship gatherings, Christian fellowship, and the Holy Spirit in us, God gives us The Communion to stay connected. 
  • Any time we remember the life of Christ, our union is strengthened and hope is encouraged.
  • That’s why Jesus tells us to take the communion. 
  • Communion keeps us connected to Him

REMEMBER THE LIFE CHRIST 
RECUERDA LA VIDA DE CRISTO
“…the Lord Jesus took some BREAD and gave thanks to God for it. Then He broke it in pieces and said, ‘This is my BODY, which is given for you. DO THIS IN REMEMBRANCE OF ME.’  In the same way, He took the cup of WINE after supper, saying, ‘This cup is the NEW COVENANT between God and his people—DO THIS IN REMEMBRANCE OF ME’…” - 1 Corinthians‬ ‭11:23-25‬ 
- - - - -
“…el Señor Jesús tomó PAN y dio gracias a Dios por ese pan. Luego Lo partió en trozos y dijo: «Esto es mi CUERPO, el cual es entregado por ustedes. HAGAN ESTO EN MEMORIA DE MI». De la misma manera, tomó en sus manos la copa de VINO después de la cena, y dijo: «Esta copa es el NUEVO PACTO entre Dios y su pueblo, HAGAN ESTO EN MEMORIA DE MI»...” - ‭‭1 Corintios‬ ‭11:23-25‬ ‭
  • Here two times, Jesus says, “remember me“.
  • What does “ME” consist of? HIS LIFE
  • His Life: Christmas Experience; Impacting Ministry; Life Changing Sacrifice. 
  • Jesus Christ wants us to remember all of His life.

STRENGTHENS THE UNION 
FORTALECE LA UNION
“This is a great mystery, but it is an illustration of the way Christ and the church are one.” - Ephesians‬ ‭5:32‬ 
“Eso es un gran misterio, pero ilustra la manera en que Cristo y la iglesia son uno.” - Efesios‬ ‭5:32‬ ‭
  • Here marriage is used as an illustration of our relationship with God.
  • Salvation unites us to Christ.
  • Communion assures us of our union / relationship with God. 
“So, my dear brothers and sisters, when you gather for the Lord’s Supper, wait for each other.” - 1 Corinthians‬ ‭11:33‬ 
“Así que, mis amados hermanos, cuando se reúnan para la Cena del Señor, espérense unos a otros.” - 1 Corintios‬ ‭11:33‬ ‭‭
  • Communion a Services of our Union / relationship with each other.
  • How do you stay in relationship with somebody? 
  • How do you nourish, grow, and strengthen any relationship?
  • We spend time together - “we wait for each other”
  • Communion strengthens our union with each another. 

ENCOURAGES THE HOPE
ANIMA LA ESPERANZA
“For every time you eat this bread and drink this cup, you are announcing the Lord’s death until he comes again.” - 1 Corinthians‬ ‭11:26‬ ‭
“Pues, cada vez que coman este pan y beban de esta copa, anuncian la muerte del Señor hasta que él vuelva.” - 1 Corintios‬ ‭11:26‬ ‭
  • We take communion by faith but also because we have Hope.
  • Hope of being right with God. 
  • Hope of His return for us. 
  • Hope encouraged to share the message of hope.

[APPLICATION]
  • Your communion with God begins with salvation.
  • It strengthens and grows, in you, by you taking the Communion.
  • Any time time you can remember the life of Christ, not only is your union with him strengthened, but your hope is encouraged to live your life for Him. 
  • That’s why God tells you to take The Communion. 
  • God wants to be in communion with you. 
“When we bless the cup at the Lord’s Table, aren’t we sharing in the blood of Christ? And when we break the bread, aren’t we sharing in the body of Christ? And though we are many, we all eat from one loaf of bread, showing that we are one body.” - 1 Corinthians‬ ‭10:16-17‬ ‭
- - -
“Cuando bendecimos la copa en la Mesa del Señor, ¿no participamos en la sangre de Cristo? Y, cuando partimos el pan, ¿no participamos en el cuerpo de Cristo? Aunque somos muchos, todos comemos de un mismo pan, con lo cual demostramos que somos un solo cuerpo.” - 1 Corintios‬ ‭10:16-17‬ ‭

CONCLUSION
THE COMMUNION KEEPS ME CONNECTED WITH MY GOD
LA COMUNIÓN ME MANTIENE CONECTADO CON MI DIOS
HOPE IS HERE
LA ESPERANZA ESTA AQUI

“So God has given both his promise and his oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie. Therefore, we who have fled to him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us.” - Hebrews‬ ‭6:18‬ ‭
- - - - -
“Así que Dios ha hecho ambas cosas: la promesa y el juramento. Estas dos cosas no pueden cambiar, porque es imposible que Dios mienta. Por lo tanto, los que hemos acudido a él en busca de refugio podemos estar bien confiados aferrándonos a la esperanza que está delante de nosotros.” - Hebreos‬ ‭6:18‬ ‭


[INTRODUCTION]
  • Hope is here. 
  • We can say that because our Hope is in God. 
  • God has promised, and taken an oath, to be with us — and He does not change His mind. 
  • Those who choose to put their hope in God have a great confidence. 
  • What confidence?  The Hope that everything He promises He will fulfill.
  • And so we can say…Hope is here. 


IT BEGINS WITH A PROMISE
EMPIEZA CON UNA PROMESA
  • Promise: Declaration that something will be done. 
  • The OT is the promise of all fulfilled in the NT. 
    • Over 500 verses point to, describe or reference the coming Messiah / Christ. 
    • From Genesis with Adam to the Prophets. 
    • Jesus fulfilled at least 300 prophecies:  David’s lineage; place of birth; & dynamics of His sacrifice. 


GUARANTEED WITH AN OATH
GARANTIZADO CON UN JURAMENTO
  • Oath: Formally affirm - beyond a promise.
  • Public:  Before Witnesses; Open to Accountability. 
  • Language:  solemn, serious. 
  • Can you give an example of when someone takes an oath?
Juror:  "Do you, and each of you, understand and agree that you will well and truly try the cause now pending before this court, and a true verdict render according only to the evidence presented to you and to the instructions of the court?"- - - 
"¿Comprenden y están de acuerdo en que ustedes, y cada uno de ustedes, que juzgarán bien y verdaderamente la causa que está pendiente ante este tribunal, y que un verdadero veredicto se pronuncie según las pruebas que se le han presentado y las instrucciones del tribunal?"
  • God took an oath through His Word / Bible - He makes it a very serious & public vow. 
  • God takes an oath on the greatest authority - HIMSELF!
“Since there was no one greater to swear by, God took an oath in his own name” - Hebrews‬ ‭6:13‬ “Como no existía nadie superior a Dios por quién jurar, Dios juró por su propio nombre” - Hebreos‬ ‭6:13‬ ‭


ACTIONS BACKUP WORDS
ACCIONES RESPALDAN LAS PALABRAS
  • Look at the example of Jesus-He:  Promised; Took an Oath; & Fulfilled. 
“This hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls. It leads us through the curtain into God’s inner sanctuary. Jesus has already gone in there for us. He has become our eternal High Priest in the order of Melchizedek.” - Hebrews‬ ‭6:19-20‬ ‭
  • “I'm so tired of talking about how we are God's hands and feet. But it's easier to say than to be.” - Mathew West “Do Something”
- - -
“Esta esperanza es un ancla firme y confiable para el alma; nos conduce a través de la cortina al santuario interior de Dios. Jesús ya entró allí por nosotros. Él ha llegado a ser nuestro eterno Sumo Sacerdote, según el orden de Melquisedec.” - Hebreos‬ ‭6:19-20‬ ‭
  • That is why we can put our hope in Jesus:
    • He promised He would come - and He did. 
    • He swore by His name - ultimate authority.
    • He lived his life & ministry publicly. 
    • He died, resurrected, & ascended publicly. 
“Look! He comes with the clouds of heaven. And everyone will see him…” - Revelation‬ ‭1:7‬ “¡Miren! Él viene en las nubes del cielo. Y todos lo verán…” - Apocalipsis‬ ‭1:7‬ ‭
  • Right now through our technological advances it’s impossible to hide anything.
  • God has nothing to hide - He has everything to reveal. 
  • God cannot lie about something that’s already been done - you can’t argue historical facts. 


[APPLICATION]
  • That’s why you can put your Hope in God. 
  • You can trust Him with anything and everything. 
  • He is serious about being there for you. 
  • He does not lie - He will not change His mind. 
  • When God takes an oath, it’s settled, it’s done — you can have hope in Him. 
“This hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls.” - Hebrews‬ ‭6:19‬ ‭“Esta esperanza es un ancla firme y confiable para el alma.” - Hebreos‬ ‭6:19‬ ‭
  • Your Hope Is Here!

​CONCLUSION
MY HOPE IS SECURE IN GOD
MI ESPERANZA ESTA SEGURA EN DIOS
THE HOPE OF MOVING ON 
LA ESPERANZA DE AVANZAR

“So let us stop going over the basic teachings about Christ again and again. Let us go on instead and become mature in our understanding.” - Hebrews 6:1a
“Así que dejemos de repasar una y otra vez las enseñanzas elementales acerca de Cristo. Por el contrario, sigamos adelante hasta llegar a ser maduros en nuestro entendimiento.” - Hebreos 6:1a
- - -
“Surely we don’t need to start again with the fundamental importance of repenting from evil deeds and placing our faith in God.” - Hebrews 6:1b
“No puede ser que tengamos que comenzar de nuevo con los importantes cimientos acerca del arrepentimiento de las malas acciones y de tener fe en Dios.” - Hebreos 6:1b
- - -
“You don’t need further instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.” - Hebrews 6:2
“Ustedes tampoco necesitan más enseñanza acerca de los bautismos, la imposición de manos, la resurrección de los muertos y el juicio eterno.” - Hebreos 6:2
- - -
“And so, God willing, we will move forward to further understanding.” - Hebrews‬ ‭6:3‬ ‭
“Así que, si Dios quiere, avanzaremos hacia un mayor entendimiento.” - Hebreos‬ ‭6:3‬ ‭
  • Here it’s talking about the hope of moving on.

[INTRODUCTION]
  • There’s always a reason why we hope. 
  • The fact that we can hope in somebody is because of their previous actions.
  • Growing up, after Sunday church, we hoped to go out for burgers. (Burger Chef)
  • This was based on my parents previous actions of Burgers after Sunday church.
“The hope given to us in the gospel of grace means that we ought to have a forward orientation in our lives.” Mark J. Larson
[La esperanza que se nos da en el evangelio de la gracia significa que debemos tener una orientación hacia delante en nuestras vidas.]

HOPE IN JESUS TO MOVE ON
LA ESPERANZA EN JESÚS PARA AVANZAR
  • Because we are saved we have a hope of heaven.
  • Verses 1-3 is saying that this is something we already know.
“For we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and your love for all of God’s people, which come from your confident hope of what God has reserved for you in heaven. You have had this expectation ever since you first heard the truth of the Good News.” - Colossians‬ ‭1:4-5‬ ‭
- - -
“porque hemos oído de su fe en Cristo Jesús y del amor que tienen por todo el pueblo de Dios. Ambas cosas provienen de la firme esperanza puesta en lo que Dios les ha reservado en el cielo. Ustedes han tenido esa esperanza desde la primera vez que escucharon la verdad de la Buena Noticia.” - Colosenses‬ ‭1:4-5‬ ‭

WE MADE IT - LET’S MOVE ON
LA HICIMOS - SIGAMOS AVANZANDO
  • Comment - WHAT ARE THINGS WE HOPE FOR? (¿Qué es lo que esperamos?)
  • At the beginning of this year a survey (encuesta) was made:
What Do You Hope for Most in 2021?
¿Que Esperas Más para el 2021?​
  • Take it one day at a time / Tomarlo un día a la vez 
  • Travel more / Viajar más
  • Make more money / Ganar más dinero
  • Be more sociable / Ser más sociable
  • Spend more time with family / Pasar más tiempo con la familia
  • Be more positive  / Ser más positivo
  • The hope that we see in this survey is a reflection of the fact that we made it through 2020:
  • 2020 was terrible — difficult:
    • Global Pandemic
    • National Shut In
    • Economic Shut Down
    • Schools Closed
    • Jobs & Business Closed
    • 3 Million Died Globally

WE ARE MEANT FOR BETTER THINGS
ESTAMOS DESTINADOS PARA COSAS MEJORES
“Dear friends, even though we are talking this way, we really don’t believe it applies to you. We are confident that you are meant for better things, things that come with salvation.” - Hebrews 6:9
“Queridos amigos, aunque hablamos de este modo, no creemos que esto se aplica a ustedes. Estamos convencidos de que ustedes están destinados para cosas mejores, las cuales vienen con la salvación.” - Hebreos 6:9
- - -
“Our great desire is that you will keep on loving others as long as life lasts, in order to make certain that what you hope for will come true.” - Hebrews‬ ‭6:11‬ ‭
“Nuestro gran deseo es que sigan amando a los demás mientras tengan vida, para asegurarse de que lo que esperan se hará realidad.” - Hebreos‬ ‭6:11‬ 
  • Speaking to an Advisor - talking about end times. 
    • Prayer like never before
    • Closer relationship with God
    • Plant seeds of Hope
  • These are actions of love, belief, and Hope for better things. 

[APPLICATION]
  • You can move on because Hope is in you. 
  • You’re a carrier (portador) of Hope!
  • You’re contagious (eres contagioso) with Hope!
  • You’re a spreader (esparcidor) of Hope!
  • God is with you - He has already seen you through so much. (Él ya te ha visto pasar por tanto)
  • Do not allow the past to determine your future.
  • You are meant for better things. 
  • So Move On!​
CONCLUSION
MY HOPE IS HEAR SO I CAN MOVE ON 
MI ESPERANZA ESTA AQUÍ PARA YO AVANZAR
WE WHO ARE STRONG 
LOS QUE SOMOS FUERTES

“We who are strong must ...” Romans‬ ‭15:1‬ ‭
“Los que somos fuertes debemos …” Romanos‬ ‭15:1‬ 

[INTRODUCTION]
  • We are Strong - stronger than what we think. 
  • The strong are those who are well-grounded. 
  • The strong have a sound understanding of Scripture, morality - what is right. 
  • The strong put that understanding into practice. 
  • We read, “We who are strong must …”
  • Must what?

BE CONSIDERATE OF OTHERS 
TENER CONSIDERACIÓN DE OTROS
  • For whatever reason the weak are weak. 
  • It’s not up to us to judge, condemn, & sentence. 
“Before you judge a man, walk a mile in his mocasines” - Mary T. Lathrap “Judge Softly”
(“Antes de juzgar a un hombre, camina una milla en sus mocasines”)
  • Before judging someone, we must understand his experiences, challenges, thought processes, etc. 
  • Practice empathy - put ourself in their shoes. 

“We who are strong must be considerate of those who are sensitive about things like this. We must not just please ourselves. We should help others do what is right and build them up in the Lord. For even Christ didn’t live to please himself...” - Romans‬ ‭15:1-3‬ ‭
- - -
“Los que somos fuertes debemos tener consideración de los que son sensibles a este tipo de cosas. No debemos agradarnos solamente a nosotros mismos. Deberíamos ayudar a otros a hacer lo que es correcto y edificarlos en el Señor. Pues ni siquiera Cristo vivió para agradarse a sí mismo...” - Romanos‬ ‭15:1-3‬ ‭

A strong, well grounded and considerate person, is able to be aware of another’s feelings and circumstances without being affected. 
(Una persona fuerte, bien fundada y considerada, es capaz de ser consciente de los sentimientos y circunstancias de otro sin ser afectada.)

BE STRONG IN THE WORD 
SER FUERTES EN LA PALABRA
  • This is something the strong know - we who are strong are strong in the Word.
  • From the moment we believe, the Word of God becomes our foundation. 
  • A principle I comprehend — 10 years as a land surveyor.
    • Condition of the soil. 
    • Height of the forms (marcos; placa de cemento)
    • Depth of the footings (cimientos). 
  • A strong foundation makes for a safe building. 

““Anyone who listens to my teaching (Scriptures) and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse because it is built on bedrock.” - Matthew‬ ‭7:24-25‬ ‭
- - -
“»Todo el que escucha mi enseñanza (Escrituras) y la sigue es sabio, como la persona que construye su casa sobre una roca sólida. Aunque llueva a cántaros y suban las aguas de la inundación y los vientos golpeen contra esa casa, no se vendrá abajo porque está construida sobre un lecho de roca.” - Mateo‬ ‭7:24-25‬ ‭

“Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled.” - Romans‬ ‭15:4‬ ‭
- - -
“Tales cosas se escribieron hace tiempo en las Escrituras para que nos sirvan de enseñanza. Y las Escrituras nos dan esperanza y ánimo mientras esperamos con paciencia hasta que se cumplan las promesas de Dios.” - Romanos‬ ‭15:4‬ ‭
  • Strong Word is what we build our lives on - our faith, choices, decisions, steps, our everything. 

RECOGNIZE, BE FILLED, & OVERFLOW 
RECONOCER, SER LLENOS, & REBOSAR
  • We who are strong must never forget WHY we are strong!
“I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.” - Romans‬ ‭15:13‬ ‭
- - -
“Le pido a Dios, fuente de esperanza, que los llene completamente de alegría y paz, porque confían en él. Entonces rebosarán de una esperanza segura mediante el poder del Espíritu Santo.” - Romanos‬ ‭15:13‬

  • Never forget that God is the source of hope. 
  • Trust God & you will always be filled - joy & peace
  • The results are Hopeful.
  • Apostle Paul’s blessing says…
“And may the Lord make your love for one another and for all people grow and overflow, just as our love for you overflows.” - 1 Thessalonians‬ ‭3:12‬ ‭
- - -
“Y que el Señor haga crecer y sobreabundar el amor que tienen unos por otros y por toda la gente, tanto como sobreabunda nuestro amor por ustedes.” - 1 Tesalonicenses‬ ‭3:12‬ ‭
  • We are strong and we know why. 
[APPLICATION]
  • Are you strong? 
  • If you feel that you are, you can always be more careful not to fall. (‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭10:12‬). 
  • If you think you are NOT strong, Hope Is Here - God is your source of strength. 
  • You can build your life on Him - He will not let you down no matter what rises against you. 
  • And even if you were to fall, He will help you to get up and move on.
  • BUT HEY, even the strong fall - but the strong know what to do.

“The godly may trip seven times, but they will get up again...” - Proverbs‬ ‭24:16‬ 
“Los justos podrán tropezar siete veces, pero volverán a levantarse...” - ‭‭Proverbios‬ ‭24:16‬ ‭

CONCLUSION
HOPE IS HERE TO MAKE ME STRONG 
LA ESPERANZA ESTA AQUÍ PARA HACERME FUERTE
HOPE FOR THE WEARY part 1
ESPERANZA PARA LOS CANSADOS parte 1

[INTRODUCTION]
  • We were created by God to live with a healthy rhythm in life. 
  • However, far too many of us are living without margin in every area of our lives. 
  • We fill our calendars - We can’t say no - We live with a harmful drive to achieve. 
  • We have lost hope that it will slow down anytime soon. 
  • Jesus offers us a gift in saying that he has come to give us rest. 
  • This rest is best experienced in community. 
  • When we do Church with one another, we lift one another up, we protect one another’s boundaries, and we carry one another’s burdens.

[Story]
  • Read a story about a man attending a little league baseball game. 
  • The children were all on the field or in the dugout, playing their hearts out. 
  • It was only the first inning, and the score (puntuación) was already 16 – 0. 
  • One team was losing in a landslide. (forma aplastante)
  • The man walked up to the dugout of the losing team and asked one little boy if he was discouraged by the score. 
  • Had he lost hope? 
  • The little boy looked at him, a little puzzled, and said, “Why would I be discouraged? We haven’t even gotten up to bat yet. 
(El niño lo miró, un poco desconcertado, y dijo: “¿Por qué me desanimaría? Ni siquiera hemos llegado a batear todavía.)
  • There is always hope!”
  • There are times when we are in need of a reminder that there is hope. 
  • Life’s circumstances can leave us hopeless:  waiting for a diagnosis, paying off bills, saving a marriage, enduring Covid-19, & trying to grow. 

“Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”” - Matthew‬ ‭11:28-30‬
- - -
“Luego dijo Jesús: «Vengan a mí todos los que están cansados y llevan cargas pesadas, y yo les daré descanso. Pónganse mi yugo. Déjenme enseñarles, porque yo soy humilde y tierno de corazón, y encontrarán descanso para el alma. Pues mi yugo es fácil de llevar y la carga que les doy es liviana».”
‭‭Mateo‬ ‭11:28-30‬ ‭

LIFE IS HARD
LA VIDA ES DURA
  • Jesus acknowledges that life is heavy. 
  • Especially when we live without margin. 
  • We’re hard on ourselves - we work hard - we get weary. 
  • Jesus is normalizing this for us:  
    • You should not feel bad when you feel crushed by burdens. 
    • You should not feel like a failure - that’s when we shy away. 
    • You should come to Me when your weary. 

EXCHANGE YOUR YOKE
INTERCAMBIA TU YUGO
  • Jesus offers us a solution. 
  • He tells us to exchange our yoke for another. 
  • A yoke is a wooden harness (arnés de madera) that a farmer would attach to livestock to plow a field or to pull a cart. 
(Un yugo es un arnés de madera que un granjero se adhiriería a la ganadería para arar un campo o para estirar un carro.)
  • The yoke would help keep the livestock safe as they worked and would help the animal submit to the farmer. 
  • The yoke Jesus was offering was one of grace, mercy, compassion, and love. 
  • He invites us to remove whatever yokes we have had around our necks and to place his yoke upon us, because it is easy, it is light, and it will give us rest.

“Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.” - Galatians‬ ‭6:2‬ ‭
“Ayúdense a llevar los unos las cargas de los otros, y obedezcan de esa manera la ley de Cristo.” - Gálatas‬ ‭6:2‬

THE CHURCH CARRIES ONE ANOTHER’S BURDENS
LA IGLESIA LLEVA LAS CARGAS DEL UNO Y DEL OTRO
  • Here it’s talking about the importance of living in community with one another. 
  • When we see someone else in the Church who is weary or burdened, we go to their aid. 
  • Why people are burdened is NOT the point. 
  • The point is to help shoulder these burdens by offering grace, forgiveness, & help. 
  • Some burdens just happen to us: a divorce we did not ask for, a virus that was unexpected, a job loss that is devastating. 
  • In these instances, we can carry each other’s burdens by being a listening ear, by bringing a meal, or by helping meet a financial need.
  • When the church is there - Jesus is there. 
  • When Jesus is there:  hope is there; rest is there; peace is there - you are not alone.

[APPLICATION]
  • So, are you weary today? 
  • Are you burdened by life? 
  • Come to Jesus and find rest. 
  • You don’t have to do this life alone. 
  • Get up to bat - you’ve got a team on your side. 
  • We are in this together and that gives us hope.​
CONCLUSION
WHEN I AM WEARY, JESUS IS MY HOPE
CUANDO ESTOY CANSADO, JESUS ES MI ESPERANZA
HOPE FOR THE WEARY (part 2)
ESPERANZA PARA LOS CANSADOS (2da parte)
[INTRODUCTION]
  • We should live life with a healthy rhythm - knowing our limits and minding them. 
  • Limits help us so that we don’t go beyond ourselves and get tired - become burdened. 
  • If and when we do get weary, Jesus offers us a gift - REST…
  • …And His Rest is best experienced with the Church — it truly is  
  • Church helps the weary stay in rhythm and within their limits. 
[Story]
  • During a particular time in my life, I found myself struggling to keep up with my responsibilities.
  • I was 10 years married, father of three, going to college, working as a land surveyor, teaching at an out of town Bible School, and newly appointed as lead pastor. 
  • I was trying so hard to be right with everybody it was draining (agotando) the life out of me.
  • I went to God, sought wise church counsel, and made some necessary decisions. 
  • I needed to prioritize (priorizar) and live within my limits — I was offbeat!
  • After that decision I began to appreciate where I was at - and I found Rest / Hope. 

“Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”” - Matthew‬ ‭11:28-30‬
- - -
“Luego dijo Jesús: «Vengan a mí todos los que están cansados y llevan cargas pesadas, y yo les daré descanso. Pónganse mi yugo. Déjenme enseñarles, porque yo soy humilde y tierno de corazón, y encontrarán descanso para el alma. Pues mi yugo es fácil de llevar y la carga que les doy es liviana».”
‭‭Mateo‬ ‭11:28-30‬ ‭

Mt. 11 - John Baptist in prison - cousin, Prophet, mentor - suffering, overwhelmed (abrumado), & doubting Jesus
John 1:29–look the lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. 

“[Jesus told him] God blesses those who do not fall away because of me.” - Matthew‬ ‭11:6‬ ‭
“Jesús le dijo] Dios bendice a los que no se apartan por causa de mí.” - Mateo‬ ‭11:6‬ ‭

KNOW AND MIND YOUR LIMITS 
CONOCE Y CUIDA TUS LÍMITES 

STRENGTHEN YOUR CHURCH CONNECTION 
FORTALECE TU CONEXIÓN IGLESIA
 
IN REST THERE IS RENEWED HOPE 
EN DESCANSO HAY ESPERANZA RENOVADA

GOD KNOWS WHERE YOU’RE AT 
DIOS SABE DONDE ESTAS
[APPLICATION]
  • So, are you living a healthy life? 
  • Are you on beat? 
  • Come to Jesus - find rest / find Hope. 
  • Connect to those who love you / Church. 
  • Life is much more hopeful when others are with you. 

CONCLUSION
THERE IS HOPE WITH OTHERS AROUND
HAY ESPERANZA CON OTROS ALREDEDOR
HOPE FOR THE BROKEN (part 1)
ESPERANZA PARA EL QUEBRANTADO (1ra parte)

[FOCUS SCRIPTURE]
“Jesus returned to the Mount of Olives, but early the next morning He was back again at the Temple. A crowd soon gathered, and He sat down and taught them.” - John 8:1-2
“Jesús regresó al monte de los Olivos, pero muy temprano a la mañana siguiente, estaba de vuelta en el templo. Pronto se juntó una multitud, y él se sentó a enseñarles.” - Juan‬ ‭8:1-2‬ ‭
- - -
As He was speaking, the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in the act of adultery. They put her in front of the crowd.” - John‬ ‭8:3‬ ‭
“Mientras hablaba, los maestros de la ley religiosa y los fariseos le llevaron a una mujer que había sido sorprendida en el acto de adulterio; la pusieron en medio de la multitud.” - Juan‬ ‭8:3‬ ‭
- - -
““Teacher,” they said to Jesus, “this woman was caught in the act of adultery. The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?”” - John‬ ‭8:4-5‬ ‭
“«Maestro —le dijeron a Jesús—, esta mujer fue sorprendida en el acto de adulterio. La ley de Moisés manda apedrearla; ¿tú qué dices?».” - Juan‬ ‭8:4-5‬ ‭
- - -
“They were trying to trap Him into saying something they could use against Him, but Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dust with his finger.” - John 8:6
“Intentaban tenderle una trampa para que dijera algo que pudieran usar en su contra, pero Jesús se inclinó y escribió con el dedo en el polvo.” - Juan‬ ‭8:6‬ ‭
- - -
They kept demanding an answer, so He stood up again and said, “All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!” Then He stooped down again and wrote in the dust.” - John‬ ‭8:7-8‬ ‭
“Como ellos seguían exigiéndole una respuesta, él se incorporó nuevamente y les dijo: «¡Muy bien, pero el que nunca haya pecado que tire la primera piedra!». Luego volvió a inclinarse y siguió escribiendo en el polvo.” - Juan‬ ‭8:7-8‬
- - -
 “When the accusers heard this, they slipped away one by one, beginning with the oldest, until only Jesus was left in the middle of the crowd with the woman.” - John 8:9
“Al oír eso, los acusadores se fueron retirando uno tras otro, comenzando por los de más edad, hasta que quedaron solo Jesús y la mujer en medio de la multitud.” - Juan‬ ‭8:9‬ ‭
- - -
Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, “Where are your accusers? Didn’t even one of them condemn you?  No, Lord,” she said. And Jesus said, “Neither do I. Go and sin no more.” - John‬ ‭8:10-11‬ ‭
“Entonces Jesús se incorporó de nuevo y le dijo a la mujer: —¿Dónde están los que te acusaban? ¿Ni uno de ellos te condenó? —Ni uno, Señor —dijo ella. —Yo tampoco —le dijo Jesús—. Vete y no peques más.” - Juan‬ ‭8:10-11‬ ‭

[INTRODUCTION]
  • There is no worse feeling than when our sin finds us out. (nos descubre)
  • Being exposed (expuestos) can leave us feeling broken (rotos) and ashamed. (avergonzados)
  • Many of us can relate to the woman caught in adultery. 
  • We may fail in different ways, but they have the same result. 
  • The woman was going to pay the price for her sin. 
  • But they brought her to Jesus. 
  • What the religious leaders meant for evil, God turned it for good.
  • What hope she must have felt as the stones began to fall at the feet of her accusers. 
  • She was given a second chance to “go and sin no more.”
 
JESUS LOVES US JUST AS HE FINDS US 
JESUS NOS AMA TAL COMO NOS ENCUENTRA

THERE IS NOTHING WE CAN DO THAT JESUS CANNOT FORGIVE 
NO HAY NADA QUE PODAMOS HACER QUE JESÚS NO PUEDA PERDONAR
 
JESUS LOVES US TOO MUCH TO LEAVE US AS WE ARE 
JESUS NOS AMA DEMASIADO PARA DEJARNOS COMO ESTAMOS

OFFER THE BROKENNESS OF OUR LIVES AND CHOOSE OBEDIENCE 
OFRECER LO QUEBRADO DE NUESTRAS VIDAS Y ESCOGER LA OBEDIENCIA
  • Do you feel broken today?  Hope is Here. 
  • Jesus offers you forgiveness and a fresh start. 
  • Here, in His Church, along with many who have been broken, is His strength to fix you. 
  • Here, in His Church, along with many who have fallen, is His Grace to restore.
  • Here, no one can throw the first stone. 
  • Here, in His church, those stones began to fall. 
  • No one can accuse you. 
  • You don’t have to be broken. 
  • There is Hope for the broken. ​
CONCLUSION
I AM NOT BROKE BECAUSE HOPE IS HERE
NO ESTOY QUEBRADO PORQUE LA ESPERANZA ESTÁ AQUÍ ​
​Hope for the Underdog pat 1 & 2
Esperanza para los No Favoritos parte 1 & 2

The underdog is the person or persons who are not chosen to win or be selected.
El No Favorito es la persona o personas que no son escogidas para ganar o ser seleccionadas.

Scripture: 1 Samuel 17:20-50 / Ephesians 6:12
There is a reason that so many of us love some of these classic movies in our culture. Movies like Rudy, Rocky, The Pursuit of Happiness (En busca de la Felicidad), Legally Blonde (Una rubia muy legal), Cool Runnings (Elegidos para el triunfo), Here comes the BOOM, Independence Day and The Greatest Game Ever Played are loved because they all have a common theme. They are all movies about underdogs. They are films about unlikely characters overcoming amazing odds. They are all told in different ways and all have their own unique outcomes, but they all tell a story of hope. Maybe these movies do something to us because we, at some level, all know what it feels like to face overwhelming circumstances that we can’t overcome on our own.
We cheer for the underdog because, somehow, we feel like if they can win, so can we.
Animamos a los No Favoritos porque, de alguna manera, sentimos que, si ellos pueden ganar, nosotros también.
 
The Bible is full of stories of characters who, against all odds, experience victory. There is a common thread in these stories as well. The characters all are fully aware that without God on their side, there is no hope of a favorable outcome. Left to themselves, they would face defeat. One of the classic stories of an underdog is the story of David. This account takes place long before David is King of Israel. At this point, he is just a young boy.
 
READ: 1 Samuel 17:20-22
From the fields to the fight. / De los campos a la pelea.
*WE ARE RARELY PREPARED FOR THE FIGHT / RARA VEZ ESTAMOS PREPARADOS PARA LA PELEA
The truth is that we are hardly ever prepared to handle what life throws at us.
La verdad es que casi nunca estamos preparados para manejar lo que la vida nos depara.
 
READ 1 Samuel 17:23-26 (RUN David RUN)
*CHOOSE FAITH OVER FEAR / ELIGE LA FE SOBRE EL MIEDO
David informs himself first. More than prayer and fasting, faith, bravery, seal of God
David concludes who, what is the threat. (amenaza)
 
CONCLUSION:
If God is with me, there is nothing I cannot overcome.
Si Dios está conmigo, no hay nada que no pueda superar.
 
Hope for the Underdog 2
Esperanza para los No Favoritos 2

*We Are Rarely Prepared for The Fight / Rara Vez Estamos Preparados para la Pelea
The truth is that we are hardly ever prepared to handle what life throws at us.
La verdad es que casi nunca estamos preparados para manejar lo que la vida nos depara.
From the fields to the fight. / De los campos a la pelea.
It is at this point in time when we have to decide how we will respond. (Trabajo & Pelea)
 
*Choose Faith over Fear / Elije la Fe Sobre el Miedo
READ 1 Samuel 17:32-37
You can hear in this passage the determination within David.
Though he is just a boy, he knows someone has to stand up to this threat. (amenaza)
 
*IF GOD IS FOR US, NOTHING CAN STAND AGAINST US (MIND SET)
SI DIOS ES POR NOSOTROS, NADA PUEDE OPONERSE A NOSOTROS (MENTALIDAD)
 What causes a young boy, an underdog, to take on such a great task? Hope.
  • Hope that he will not fight this battle alone.
  • La Esperanza de que no peleara esta batalla solo.
  • Hope that with God’s help there is nothing that is impossible.
  • La Esperanza que con la ayuda de Dios no hay nada que sea imposible.
  • Hope that what little he has to offer is enough.
  • La Esperanza de que lo poco que tiene para ofrecer sea suficiente.
David’s reasoning for this hope comes from God’s faithfulness in the past.
 
David’s confidence comes from God’s faithfulness, and it is the drive he needs to overcome.
When we find ourselves in seasons of struggle, sometimes we have to remind ourselves of how God has been with us in the past.
 
Hope is a result of trust / La esperanza es el resultado de la confianza
When we believe that something or someone is trustworthy, it gives us hope.
 
Read 1 Samuel 17:38-51
*38-39 Saul’s armor - I can’t walk with these – I’m not used to them
“We can’t depend on the weapons of the world or others experience”
Maybe you don’t feel equipped to overcome the things that you are facing.
Maybe you know that your trial is too much for you. This is a good place to start.
 
*40 -THIS IS HOW WE FIGHT OUR BATTLES / ASI ES COMO PELEAMOS LAS BATALLAS
  • He picked up 5 smooth stones and put them in his shepherd’s bag
  • He was armed with his shepherd’s staff and sling / cayado y honda
  • He walked across the valley to fight (TIEMPO DE PRUEBA)
 
Ephesians 6:12
It is only when we realize that our battles are not waged in conventional ways, but rather in the spirit, that we will begin to experience God fighting for us.
 
*41-44 Goliath last actions and words / Las ultimas palabras de Goliat
 
*45-47 David replied… (5 stones) / La respuesta de David
  • I come to you in the name of the Lord of Heaven & Earth (You Offend It)
  • Today the Lord will conquer you – I will kill you & cut off your head
  • The world will know that there is a God
  • Everyone will know that the Lord rescues his people but not with sword & spear
  • This is the Lord’s battle, and he will give you to us!!!
_We fight our overwhelming battles by submitting to the will of God.
_We fight our most difficult circumstances by bringing them to God in prayer.
_We fight the evil that we come against by inviting God to intervene on our behalf. 
 
*48-51 David pulled out Goliath’s sword and kill him. (2 to 3 lb.) all armor 700lb
Figure of what is impossible for you alone with God is possible
This single victory turns the tide of the entire war. The Philistines run, and the Israelites pursue.
1 Samuel 17:51-52
Suddenly, the once frightened Israelite army is emboldened by a little boy and his sling. Because of David’s bravery and trust in God, they are all given hope that they too can be a part of the triumph of God.

*HOPE IS CONTAGIOUS / LA ESPERANZA ES CONTAGIOSA
David’s hope in God spreads like wildfire. The entire story changes.
It starts with one person who wants to see... That person could be you.
Even though you cannot see how God might come through, faith is believing that it is still possible.

CONCLUSION:
With God on my side, there is hope and victory.
Con Dos a mi lado, hay esperanza y victoria.

Hope for the Underdog 3
Esperanza para los No Favoritos 3

1 Samuel 16:11-13
The anointing is when the Spirit of God comes upon us.
La uncion del Espiritu de Dios viene sobre nosotros.

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for he has anointed me…” - Luke‬ ‭4:18‬ ‭
“El Espíritu del Señor está sobre mí, porque me ha ungido…” - Lucas‬ ‭4:18‬
  • In the life of David, “The Teenage Underdog”, we see an immediate effect of the anointing:  a greater authority; divine instruction; and supernatural strength. 
  • This continues to be true in the life of those who ask of the Lord Jesus Christ. 
  • The Spirit of the Lord comes upon us, especially, in those “underdog” moments. 
  • We all understand, by experience, what it is to be an underdog:
    • That person who is expected to lose in a contest or conflict. 
    • The unpopular one who doesn’t have a chance with the pretty girl at school. 
    • The one seen as the least qualified for the open position at work. 
    • The new believer who everybody would just be happy that he made it to heaven.
  • We, like David, understand that were it not for our hope in God, AND HIS ANOINTING, we might not rise to the challenge — much less overcome gigantic situation (pun intended - juego de palabras intencionado)
  • During the time of prophet Samuel and Kings Saul and David their dominant military enemy were the Philistines. 
  • That’s the context of the battle at the Valley of E’lah (E’la) in Samuel 17. 
  • Into this narrative arrives a young teenage shepherd boy named David - he’s very anointed. 

*ANOINTING FOR GREATER AUTHORITY / UNCIÓN PARA MAYOR HABILIDAD
“Then David’s question was reported to King Saul, and the king sent for him.” - 1 Samuel‬ ‭17:31‬ 
“Entonces le contaron a Saúl la pregunta de David, y el rey mandó llamarlo.” - 1 Samuel‬ ‭17:31‬ ‭
  • David moved amongst the powerful. 
  • David had the king’s anointing. 
  • David would cast out demons. 
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you...” - Acts 1:8‬
“pero recibirán poder cuando el Espíritu Santo descienda sobre ustedes...” - Hechos‬ ‭1:8‬ ‭

*ANOINTING TO RECEIVE DIVINE INSTRUCTION / UNCIÓN PARA RECIBIR INSTRUCCIÓN DIVINA
“He picked up five smooth stones…Then, armed only with his shepherd’s staff and sling...” - 1 Samuel‬ ‭17:40‬ (vs. 48 - David runs toward Goliath)
“Tomó cinco piedras lisas…Luego, armado únicamente con su vara de pastor y su honda...” - 1 Samuel‬ ‭17:40‬ ‭(vs. 48 - David corre hacia Goliad)
  • The staff and the sling represent the good we already have.
  • Running towards Goliath represents knowledge we’ve acquired. 
  • In certain sports, certain skills are better executed while moving forward:  throwing or kicking a ball; throwing a javelin, shot-put, or disc. (lanzar o patear una bola; lanzamiento de jabalina, bala o disco). 
  • “Hit & Go In For the Kill” represent methods we know already work - Lion & Goliath. 
“I went out after it and struck it, and delivered the lamb from its mouth; and when it arose against me, I caught it by its beard, and struck and killed it.” - I Samuel‬ ‭17:35‬ ‭
“salía yo tras él, lo hería y se lo arrancaba de la boca; y si se revolvía contra mí, le echaba mano a la quijada, lo hería y lo mataba.” - 1 Samuel‬ ‭17:35‬ ‭

“Reaching into his shepherd’s bag and taking out a stone, he hurled it with his sling and hit the Philistine in the forehead. The stone sank in, and Goliath stumbled and fell face down on the ground…Then David ran over and pulled Goliath’s sword from its sheath. David used it to kill him and cut off his head.” - 1 Samuel‬ ‭17:49, 51‬ ‭
“Metió la mano en su bolsa de pastor, sacó una piedra, la lanzó con su honda y golpeó al filisteo en la frente. La piedra se le incrustó allí y Goliat se tambaleó y cayó de cara al suelo…Después David corrió y sacó de su vaina la espada de Goliat y la usó para matarlo y cortarle la cabeza...” - 1 Samuel‬ ‭17:49, 51‬ ‭
  • The 5 stones represent divine instruction:  More aerodynamic; 1 Goliath + 3 giant brothers + armor bearer.

*ANOINTING TO HAVE SUPERNATURAL STRENGTH / UNCIÓN PARA TENER FUERZA SOBRENATURAL 
  • With the anointing comes the supernatural strength to operate under that anointing. 
  • David demonstrates a brief moment of getting out from under his anointing when he tries on Saul’s armor - not strong enough to wear it. 
  • (16:14) The anointing departs Saul:  The tallest of his tribe, the King of Israel, No anointing - no authority, instruction, nor supernatural strength to face his own demons much less God’s enemy - Goliath. 
  • David, under the anointing, speaks words of authority, receives clear instruction, and with supernatural strength finishes killing Goliath - with Goliath’s stone -  a 15 Lb. sword that naturally a teenager his size should not have been able to effectively wield. (efectivamente manejar)
  • Normal sword (3-4 lbs)
CONCLUSION
THE ANOINTING TAKES ME FROM UNDERDOG TO GIANT-SLAYER!  
¡LA UNCIÓN ME LLEVA DE NO FAVORITO A MATA-GIGANTES!
HOPE FOR THE DOUBTER (part 1)
ESPERANZA PARA EL QUE DUDA (1ra parte)
  • When life gets tough, it’s easy to doubt that things can get better. 
  • The disciples knew that their Lord and friend had been crucified and buried in a tomb - devastated. 
  • On the third day Jesus resurrects - the disciples, except for Thomas, see Him — they can’t believe it!
  • When they tell Thomas, he did NOT want to get his hopes up - he did NOT want to be disappointed. 
  • Some of us have experienced such tragedy and pain that we too struggle with doubt. 
  • We need to know that Jesus has overcome death. 
  • We need a place that is safe for when we have doubts - that place is our Church. 
  • When life gets tough, and we began to doubt, it’s easier to have Hope when the Hopeful are around. 
  • Have you ever heard a piece of information that you had a hard time believing was true? 
  • Maybe it seemed so outlandish (raro) that it made you doubt. 
  • Maybe it was too good to be true and so it made you skeptical. (Escéptico)
  • Trust It or Doubt It: 
    • Did you know that every day, on average, 11 banks are robbed in the U.S.? T or D? TRUE! 
    • Did you know you are more likely to be stung by a bee in windy weather? T or D? FALSE. 
    • Did you know they have square watermelons in Japan because they stack (apilen) better? T or D? TRUE!
    • Did you know penguins can smell toothpaste from a mile away? T or D? FALSE. 
  • Doubt has become a common occurrence for many of us within our culture today.
  • This past season of Covid-19 has caused many to doubt because we wonder where God is in the middle of it. 
  • People doubt for all kinds of reasons.
  • After His death and resurrection, Jesus miraculously began to show up. 
  • The word started to spread among the disciples. 
  • There was one disciple, named Thomas, who refused to believe.
“One of the twelve disciples, Thomas (nicknamed the Twin), was not with the others when Jesus came. They told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he replied, “I won’t believe it unless I see the nail wounds in his hands, put my fingers into them, and place my hand into the wound in his side.”” - John‬ ‭20:24-25‬ ‭
“Tomás, uno de los doce discípulos (al que apodaban el Gemelo), no estaba con los otros cuando llegó Jesús. Ellos le contaron: —¡Hemos visto al Señor! Pero él respondió: —No lo creeré a menos que vea las heridas de los clavos en sus manos, meta mis dedos en ellas y ponga mi mano dentro de la herida de su costado.” - Juan‬ ‭20:24-25‬ ‭
  • Thomas gets a bad rap as Doubting Thomas.
  • He was more than likely looking to protect himself from further pain.

WE DOUBT TO PROTECT OURSELVES
DUDAMOS PARA PROTEGERNOS
  • Truthfully, we are a lot like Thomas. 
  • The doubt that we often express is a way of keeping ourselves from getting our hopes up.
  • Think about it: What is the first thing we say when we are given good news? We respond with, “No way,” or, “You have got to be kidding me.” 
“Eight days later the disciples were together again, and this time Thomas was with them. The doors were locked; but suddenly, as before, Jesus was standing among them. “Peace be with you,” he said. Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and look at my hands. Put your hand into the wound in my side. Don’t be faithless any longer. Believe!”” - John‬ ‭20:26-27‬ 
“Ocho días después, los discípulos estaban juntos de nuevo, y esa vez Tomás se encontraba con ellos. Las puertas estaban bien cerradas; pero de pronto, igual que antes, Jesús estaba de pie en medio de ellos y dijo: «La paz sea con ustedes». Entonces le dijo a Tomás: —Pon tu dedo aquí y mira mis manos; mete tu mano en la herida de mi costado. Ya no seas incrédulo. ¡Cree!” - Juan‬ ‭20:26-27‬ ‭
  • Without much explanation, Jesus just appears. 
  • Whom does he speak to first? Thomas. The doubter. 
  • Notice that Jesus does not reprimand, belittle (menospreció), nor ridicule (ridícula) for needing proof.

JESUS IS NOT AFRAID OF OUR DOUBT
JESÚS NO TIENE MIEDO A NUESTRA DUDA 
  • There are many in the church today who are struggling with their faith. 
  • They have lost hope that Jesus is who they thought he was. 
  • The usual response to those in the church who doubt is to shame them or to shun them. (La respuesta habitual a aquellos en la iglesia que dudan es avergonzarlos o rechazarlos.)
  •  Thomas touches Jesus’ hands and side. 
  • Where there once were wounds, there now are scars. 
  • A reminder of the pain, but proof of the resurrection.
““My Lord and my God!” Thomas exclaimed. Then Jesus told him, “You believe because you have seen me. Blessed are those who believe without seeing me.”” - John‬ ‭20:28-29‬ ‭
“—¡Mi Señor y mi Dios! —exclamó Tomás. Entonces Jesús le dijo: —Tú crees porque me has visto; benditos son los que creen sin verme.” - Juan‬ ‭20:28-29‬ ‭
  • This is all Thomas truly needs. 
  • Thomas needed to experience what the other disciples had already experienced.
  • Now this disciple, who was the greatest doubter, becomes the disciple who makes the greatest and truest claim of who Jesus is.

WE FAIL TO DOUBT WHEN WE TRUST THE SOURCE
FALLAMOS EN DUDAR CUANDO CONFIAMOS EN LA FUENTE
  • Thomas had first-hand evidence that came directly from the source - Jesus Himself. 
“We proclaim to you the One who existed from the beginning, Whom we have heard and seen. We saw Him with our own eyes and touched Him with our own hands. He is the Word of life.” - 1 John‬ ‭1:1‬ ‭
“Les anunciamos Al que existe desde el principio, a Quien hemos visto y oído. Lo vimos con nuestros propios ojos y Lo tocamos con nuestras propias manos. Él es la Palabra de vida.” - 1 Juan‬ ‭1:1‬ ‭

“The apostles had seen Him while they witnessed His wisdom and holiness, His miracles, and love and mercy, during some years, till they saw Him crucified for sinners, and afterwards risen from the dead. THEY touched Him, so as to have full proof of His resurrection.” - Matthew Henry
(“Los apóstoles Le habían visto al ser testigos de Su sabiduría y santidad, Sus milagros, y amor y misericordia, durante algunos años, hasta que Lo vieron crucificado por los pecadores, y después resucitado de entre los muertos. ELLOS Lo tocaron, para tener plena prueba de Su resurrección.”)
  • Our doubts can turn to hope when we too go directly to the source and find that Jesus is trustworthy.
  • When Jesus is the source of our hope, we don’t have to be crippled (lisiados) by doubt. 
APPLICATION
  • Are you going through some doubt?
  • Today you are where Hope is - at Church. 
  • You are at the Source - His presence. 
  • Jesus is real, He is alive. 
  • Jesus is here. Hope is here. 
  • You don’t have to doubt. 
CONCLUSION
HOPE TURNS MY DOUBT INTO TRUST 
LA ESPERANZA CONVIERTE MI DUDA EN CONFIANZA

HOPE FOR THE DOUBTER (part 2)
ESPERANZA PARA EL QUE DUDA (2da parte)

“…Jesus told them this story: “A man had two sons. The younger son told his father, ‘I want my share of your estate now before you die.’ So his father agreed to divide his wealth between his sons.” - ‭‭Luke‬ ‭15:11-12‬ ‭
“…Jesús les contó la siguiente historia: «Un hombre tenía dos hijos. El hijo menor le dijo al padre: “Quiero la parte de mi herencia ahora, antes de que mueras”. Entonces el padre accedió a dividir sus bienes entre sus dos hijos.” - Lucas‬ ‭15:11-12‬ ‭
- - -
““A few days later this younger son packed all his belongings and moved to a distant land, and there he wasted (prodigal) all his money in wild living. About the time his money ran out, a great famine swept over the land, and he began to starve.” - Luke‬ ‭15:13-14‬ ‭
“»Pocos días después, el hijo menor empacó sus pertenencias y se mudó a una tierra distante, donde derrochó (pródigo) todo su dinero en una vida desenfrenada. Al mismo tiempo que se le acabó el dinero, hubo una gran hambruna en todo el país, y él comenzó a morirse de hambre.” - Lucas‬ ‭15:13-14‬ ‭
- - -
“He persuaded a local farmer to hire him, and the man sent him into his fields to feed the pigs. The young man became so hungry that even the pods (scraps) he was feeding the pigs looked good to him. But no one gave him anything.” - Luke‬ ‭15:15-16‬ ‭
“Convenció a un agricultor local de que lo contratara, y el hombre lo envió al campo para que diera de comer a sus cerdos. El joven llegó a tener tanta hambre que hasta las algarrobas (desechos) con las que alimentaba a los cerdos le parecían buenas para comer, pero nadie le dio nada.” - Lucas‬ ‭15:15-16‬ ‭
- - - 
““When he finally came to his senses, he said to himself, ‘At home even the hired servants have food enough to spare, and here I am dying of hunger! I will go home to my father and say, “Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you, and I am no longer worthy of being called your son. Please take me on as a hired servant.”’” - Luke‬ ‭15:17-19‬ ‭
“»Cuando finalmente entró en razón, se dijo a sí mismo: “En casa, hasta los jornaleros tienen comida de sobra, ¡y aquí estoy yo, muriéndome de hambre! Volveré a la casa de mi padre y le diré: ‘Padre, he pecado contra el cielo y contra ti. Ya no soy digno de que me llamen tu hijo. Te ruego que me contrates como jornalero’”. - Lucas‬ ‭15:17-19‬ ‭
- - -
““So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him.” - Luke 15:20
“»Entonces regresó a la casa de su padre, y cuando todavía estaba lejos, su padre lo vio llegar. Lleno de amor y de compasión, corrió hacia su hijo, lo abrazó y lo besó.” - Luke 15:20
- - - 
“His son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you, and I am no longer worthy of being called your son.’  But his father said to the servants, ‘Quick! Bring the finest robe in the house and put it on him. Get a ring for his finger and sandals for his feet.’” - Luke‬ ‭15:21‬-22
“Su hijo le dijo: ‘Padre, he pecado contra el cielo y contra ti, y ya no soy digno de que me llamen tu hijo.’ Sin embargo, su padre dijo a los sirvientes: “Rápido, traigan la mejor túnica que haya en la casa y vístanlo. Consigan un anillo para su dedo y sandalias para sus pies.  -      Lucas‬ ‭15:21‬-22‭
- - -
And kill the calf we have been fattening. We must celebrate with a feast, for this son of mine was dead and has now returned to life. He was lost, but now he is found.’ So the party began.” - Luke‬ ‭15:23-24‬ ‭
Maten el ternero que hemos engordado. Tenemos que celebrar con un banquete, porque este hijo mío estaba muerto y ahora ha vuelto a la vida; estaba perdido y ahora ha sido encontrado”. Entonces comenzó la fiesta.” - Lucas‬ ‭15:23-24‬ ‭

INTRODUCTION
  • “Hope” is the feeling that things will turn out for the best. 
  • But after doing what he did, this younger son even doubted he would be received as a son.
  • To his unexpected surprise, his dad received him in a way most exemplary. 
  • A prodigal, wasteful (desperdiciador), son is now again full of Hope for his future. 
  • Many doubt God.
  • They’ve lost Hope in what God can do - they struggle with their faith. 
  • Some will leave The Father’s House - some even their faith. 
  • In time some return - we must be ready to receive them. 
  • This father exemplifies how we must respond to those who return - in spite of the doubts they might bring with them. 
COMPASSION FOR THE DOUBTER
COMPASIÓN PARA EL QUE DUDA
“…while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him.” - Luke‬ ‭15:20-21‬ ‭
“…cuando todavía estaba lejos, su padre lo vio llegar. Lleno de amor y de compasión, corrió hacia su hijo, lo abrazó y lo besó.” - Lucas‬ ‭15:20-21‬ ‭

  • In spite of his son’s actions, without yet having heard a word, this father is moved to compassion.
  • At the source of our effectiveness is compassion. 
“When He saw the crowds, He had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” - Matthew‬ ‭9:36‬ 
“Cuando [El] vio a las multitudes, Les tuvo compasión, porque estaban confundidas y desamparadas, como ovejas sin pastor.” - Mateo‬ ‭9:36‬ ‭
  • We must allow ourselves to feel the hurt, pain, and struggle of others - empathy.
  • Compassion better equips us to meet people’s needs — build a bridge back to faith and Hope.

LISTEN TO WHAT PEOPLE ARE TRULY SAYING
ESCUCHA LO QUE LA GENTE EN VERDAD ESTÁ DICIENDO
  • The son had a prepared & practiced speech (discurso).  
  • But Hopelessness (desesperanza) & Doubt had led him to a loss of Identity. 
  • The father picked up on this immediately and interrupts his son’s speech. 
“Quick! Bring the finest robe in the house and put it on him. Get a ring for his finger and sandals for his feet.” - Luke‬ ‭15:22-24‬ ‭
“Rápido, traigan la mejor túnica que haya en la casa y vístanlo. Consigan un anillo para su dedo y sandalias para sus pies.” - Lucas‬ ‭15:22-24‬ ‭
  • These articles represented the sons identity. 

“The value of identity of course is that so often with it comes purpose”
“El valor de la identidad, por supuesto, es que seguido con ella viene el propósito”
  • The father was able to reach his son because he listened to him. 
  • The moment the father heard the son say I am not worthy to be called your son…
  • Dad heard enough - “son I know where you’re at” “I hear you” - quick, robe, ring, and sandals. 

“If to correct you must humiliate; you don’t know how to teach.” 
“Si para corregir tienes que humillar; tu no sabes cómo enseñar."
  • To bring Hope to the doubter, broken, weary, the underdogs, we must see as God sees. 
  • This father is a type of God. 
  • What he saw from a distance was not a prodigal, wasteful, sinner - he saw his son. 

WE MUST SEE WHAT GOD SEES
DEBEMOS VER LO QUE DIOS VE
  • We see shepherd boy - God sees a king. 
​“People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”” - 1 Samuel‬ ‭16:7‬ ‭
“La gente juzga por las apariencias, pero el Señor mira el corazón.” - 1 Samuel‬ ‭16:7‬ ‭
  • We see an adulterous woman - God sees a restored woman. 
“Where are your accusers?…Go and sin no more.” - John‬ ‭8:10-11‬ ‭
“¿Dónde están los que te acusaban?…Vete y no peques más.” - Juan‬ ‭8:10-11‬ ‭
  • We see a doubting disciple - God sees a great worshiper. 
““My Lord and my God!” Thomas exclaimed.” - John‬ ‭20:28-29‬ ‭
“¡Mi Señor y mi Dios! —exclamó Tomás.” - Juan‬ ‭20:28-29‬ ‭
  • We see a returning prodigal son - God sees a reason to celebrate. 

“‘We must celebrate with a feast, for this son of mine was dead and has now returned to life. He was lost, but now he is found.’ So the party began.” - Luke‬ ‭15:22-24‬ ‭
“‘Tenemos que celebrar con un banquete, porque este hijo mío estaba muerto y ahora ha vuelto a la vida; estaba perdido y ahora ha sido encontrado.’  Entonces comenzó la fiesta.” - Lucas‬ ‭15:22-24‬ ‭

“In the same way, there is more joy in heaven over one lost sinner who repents and returns to God than over ninety-nine others who are righteous and haven’t strayed away!” - Luke‬ ‭15:7‬ ‭
“De la misma manera, ¡hay más alegría en el cielo por un pecador perdido que se arrepiente y regresa a Dios que por noventa y nueve justos que no se extraviaron!” - Lucas‬ ‭15:7‬ ‭

APPLICATION
  • Yes!  Doubt is real - especially now and days. 
  • And perhaps you’re going through some doubt right now. 
  • You might even think they’re TOO far gone. 
  • You doubt people will remember the real you anymore - or care to hear you out. 
  • But God loves you. God hears you. God sees you.
  • His Church is here for you - and, no doubt, we’re ready to celebrate your return. 
  • So come home - the party can’t start without you.​​

CONCLUSION
NO DOUBT, TODAY IS MY DAY TO CELEBRATE MY RETURN
SIN DUDA, HOY ES MI DÍA PARA CELEBRAR MI REGRESO