First at bat for this year’s Summer Series, Mid-Summer Classic, Bringing the Word Home, was returning guest speaker, Dr. Erwin Lutzer. Dr. Lutzer has been senior pastor of Chicago’s Moody Church since 1980. Along with his love for Scripture, sound interpretation of doctrine and convicting sermons, Dr. Lutzer likes to bring a little humor to his teaching. Recently, he posed a question to Rebecca, his wife of 41 years. “Do I look 68?” Her reply: “Well, you used to!” Dr. Lutzer can be heard on three radio programs: Songs in the Night, Running to Win, and The Moody Church Hour. He has also authored more than 30 books.

Living in a Nation Under Judgment was the title of Dr. Lutzer’s message from Habakkuk for Sunday morning, July 11. “In the face of indescribable human suffering, God appears to be silent,” said Dr. Lutzer. He went on to explain how, like we all sometimes do, Habakkuk struggled with the holiness and justice of God. Dr. Lutzer stressed what he called the heart of Habakkuk described in the text: “The righteous will live by his faith.” Habakkuk 2:4b (NASB) He said many of us can relate to Habakkuk’s struggle. “For most Christians, the issue is not whether or not God is in control; but, will He do right by us?”

Colonial member Susan Burke said, “Sunday morning's message was one of those that we knew God delivered directly to us. We've been through some deep waters in the last several months and the text from Habakkuk was a reminder that God cares. He is not indifferent in His silence, and, no matter what, He is trustworthy.”

Nearly every seat in the sanctuary was filled for Sunday evening’s message Jesus vs. Muhammed (Revelation 1), as many came to hear Dr. Lutzer speak on this relevant topic. Dr. Lutzer reminded those gathered that Muslims are not to be seen as enemies; but, rather, as victims of an oppressive religion. He gave the audience eight lessons. Among them: “Why don’t Muslims and Christians see eye to eye?” Lutzer’s answer: “The point of controversy between Muslims and Christians is almost always the cross.”  Another important lesson: “ Don’t bet on a losing team! Things are not what they appear to be.”

This year’s Summer Series, which runs through August 29, includes a total of 14 guests, some new to Colonial and some returning favorites. Our guests include artists, professors, pastors and even an animal trainer! Also, a returning favorite from previous years: there will be food and fellowship in the courtyard following each Sunday evening service during Summer Series. Don’t miss an inning!