Resilient Faith: Seeing Christ Clearly

Resilient Faith: Seeing Christ Clearly

Most of us want the same thing, even if we describe it in different ways. We want to stand firm when life presses in. We long for a faith that doesn’t collapse under pressure, a hope that holds when circumstances shift, and a steadiness that lasts longer than a good week or a strong moment.

That desire—to be resilient—is not a weakness. It is a God-given longing. And Scripture teaches us that true resilience is not found by trying harder, doing more, or summoning greater resolve. It grows as we come to know Jesus Christ more fully.

Resilience Rooted in Christ

In Colossians 1:15–23, the apostle Paul lifts our eyes away from ourselves and fixes them firmly on Christ. This passage is one of the clearest and richest descriptions of who Jesus is in all of Scripture. Paul shows us Christ in His glory—higher, deeper, wider, and clearer than we often imagine.

Here we see who Christ is: the image of the invisible God. We see what He controls: all things in heaven and on earth. We see what He has done: creating all things, holding all things together, and reconciling sinners to God through His blood. And we see what He will yet do: present His people holy, blameless, and secure.

As our understanding of Christ grows, something else grows with it. Our faith becomes steadier. Our confidence becomes quieter but stronger. Our resilience deepens—not because life becomes easier, but because Christ becomes larger in our hearts and minds.

Not Inner Strength, but Clearer Sight

Resilient faith does not come from digging deeper within ourselves. It does not come from spiritual busyness or trying harder to hold everything together. It comes from clearer sight—seeing Christ as He truly is and trusting what He has already done and promises yet to do.

When Christ is seen clearly, faith finds solid ground. When He is trusted fully, hope becomes durable. And when He is treasured above all else, love begins to endure.

Gratitude for Our Church Family

As we continue this series, we also pause with deep gratitude for our church family. God has been faithful to Mount Lebanon, and He has worked through the faithfulness of His people.

Following worship this Sunday, we invite our members to a Member Appreciation Reception. There will be special snacks, a small gift, and—most importantly—a sincere word of thanks. We truly appreciate you: your worship, your service, your generosity, your prayers, and your commitment to Christ’s work through this congregation. Your faith and partnership are a gift from God.

Looking Back with Thanks, Looking Ahead with Hope

After the reception, we will gather for a Congregational Meeting. Together, we will give thanks for what God has done in our ministry over the past year and share what we hope to do in the year ahead—trusting not in our strength, but in God’s power and grace.

This is a moment to reflect, to rejoice, and to renew our shared commitment to walk together as a church rooted in Christ.

An Invitation

If you are longing for a faith that holds—one that is steady, grounded, and resilient—we invite you to join us for worship this Sunday. Come hear again who Christ is, what He has done, and why knowing Him more clearly changes everything.

Resilient faith does not begin with us. It begins with Christ.

We look forward to worshiping with you, giving thanks together, and entrusting the year ahead to the Lord who holds all things together.