These sermons were preached in the second decade of the 21st century at First Presbyterian Church, Pasadena, Texas. The eight years I was privileged to serve as the pastor of that congregation were ones in which, together, we joyfully sought to be the people of God in our thoughts, questions, struggles, and actions.

That congregation is a winsome reflection of the answer to the first question in the Westminster Shorter Catechism, namely, our "chief end is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. " That may look different in different congregations, but the grace and goodness shown in Pasadena were - and are - certainly important reflections of the gospel.

I understand that sermons are to be preached and heard by a particular congregation at a particular time and a particular place. However, it might also be the case that something of the gospel might shine through in the reading of them in another context.

I have certainly learned from and been inspired by reading sermons by others long after they were actually preached. Finally, lest the sin of egotism enter the picture too much, it must be said that these sermons were aimed at me as much as at anyone.

Nevertheless, it is hoped that they convey something of the gospel that is helpful and, in these challenging days, offer a word of encouragement, hope and grace. James S.

("Jim") CurrieEaster 2024. .