Whose life fits these facts?

·         He left the land of his birth by God’s calling to start a new movement.

·         He’s considered a spiritual father to many people of diverse faith.

·         Millions of people since the time he lived acknowledge his greatness.

·         The concept of covenant is key to understanding his legacy.

·         Those who look to him sometimes don’t acknowledge each other as spiritual brothers.

·         He temporarily left his new home and then returned.

·         He endured threats of death.

·         People interpret the meaning of his life and faith very differently.

·         His influence touches believers today on every continent and has shaped American faith in particular.

·         God was directing the events of his life for a specific purpose at a crossroads in history.

Make your guess – quickly!  I’m getting ready to tell you the answer.

Well, the answers.

The last bullet above might apply to any one of us.

The rest of these facts fit at least two different giants of faith – Abraham (Genesis) and John Calvin (16th century Reformer).  We owe to both a great debt. 

Over the next few weeks (now through August 27), you will be hearing about both of them in this space, in my newsletter articles, and in Sunday sermons. 

The 500th anniversary of John Calvin’s birth is July 10.  We need to remember and celebrate his contribution to us.

But our primary focus on Sunday mornings will be on the life of Abraham.  His story begins in Genesis 12, and lasts for about 13 chapters in the first book of the Bible.

Abraham’s story will remind that God has a purpose for each one of us, and a purpose for the whole world.  John Calvin will teach us the basics of our faith, and that our lives are planned by God to bring him glory.

So join us on the journey with Abraham and Calvin.  Let’s ask God to give us greater insight into his plans and desires for us.