WHEN ALL SEEMS LOST: CAUGHT IN THE CLEARCUT

•    media feeding-frenzy spotlights mayor’s shortcomings
•    “come-to-Jesus moment”: finished with alcohol, drugs
•    needs stillness to find inner compass
•    Assyrian devastation partly due to poor leadership decisions
•    desolation left from invasion: trees felled, stumps left

THE SPROUT WITH SPIRIT AND SPUNK

•    from Jesse’s stump: descendant of David
•    God’s Spirit indispensable for wise leadership
•    Spirit allowed Jesus to speak God’s words, do as Father was doing
•    knowledge of the Lord = relational intimacy
•    fear God not public opinion
•    “rod of his mouth” - Christ’s sharp sword
•    belt of righteousness: robe tucked up, ready for action

RIGHT REWARDS: RESCUE AND RECOMPENSE

•    not relying on hearsay or mere appearances: the inside scoop
•    Jesus stopped to help the poor and needy
•    but at Judgment will overthrow the lawless, destroy the disobedient

PRINCE OF PEACE: REST IN THE ROOT

•    Who’s with WHO in the zoo? Unusual companions
•    God able to keep Paul safe amidst adventures
•    transformation of character: from persecutor to apostle
•    Jesus balances power (government) and peace

RALLY TO THE BANNER

•    Jesus’ cross the ‘banner’ by which He rallies people to Himself
•    “Truth & Reconciliation” rather than reprisal in S Africa
•    Mandela: celebrate Christ’s victory over the forces of death
•    still in prison unless leave bitterness & hatred behind