This isn't just a story, but for the believer, this is our story. How we were miserable in our sin, how we've been delivered by the grace of God and Jesus Christ, and now how the rest of life is an expression of gratitude unto God for the grace that we have received.

Genesis often uses genealogies to summarize previous generations stories, and provide a preview teasing where the story of the book would next focus attention. Often these transitions are introduced with phrases like “this is the account” (Genesis 2:4, 6:9, 10:1, 11:10, 11:27, 25:12, 25:19, 36:1, 36:9, 37:2) to signal the conclusion of one focus, and the introduction of a new focus for the narrative

What is the Catechism? When did it take place? What's the story? What's the history? What's the backdrop? All these questions should be answered for us to better understand d the Catechism. Upon doing research for his topic, I came across this piece written by Dr. Lyle Bierma, who is a professor of church history at Calvin. He does such a wonderful job of giving us a history of the Heidelberg Catechism that I am going to share his piece with you today.

This week we have a particularly apt set of chapters to consider and hear God's voice loud and clear on a number of topics. Highlights and lowlights. As we read the Bible, and as we live life, it is essential to ask good questions. Good questions help reveal our needs, open up opportunities for next steps, create bridges for shared relationships, expose malicious evil, and provide a foundation for ongoing relationships.