Restoring The Future challenges readers to a deeper Easter faith by opening unexpected treasures in the first lesson lectionary passages from Genesis, Exodus, Samuel, the prophets, and the book of Acts.Drawing upon thoughtfully mined biblical insights and his alert attention to contemporary culture, Rob Elder has crafted sermons that not only disclose some unexpected angles of vision on Lent and Easter, but also serve as models for preaching on neglected and overlooked texts.... These are not the usual texts and these are not the expected words for the seasons of Lent and Easter, but it is sometimes what we do not expect to see and hear that delights us the most.Thomas G. LongBandy Professor of PreachingCandler School of Theology, Emory UniversitySome of the best sermons I have heard are from preachers who are not widely known. It is grand to have the opportunity to hear from one of those faithful servants, who year in and year out feed their parishioners with God's word.Diogenes AllenPrinceton Theological SeminaryThis is the kind of preaching that nourishes the church! In this volume, Rob Elder serves up a full meal of appetizing stories, hearty reflections on scripture, serious theological convictions, and delicious good humor. Rob's passion for the Bread of Life is matched only by his quick wit and engaging style. Don't miss this great collection of sermons by a fine preacher!William G. CarterPastor, First Presbyterian ChurchClarks Summit, PennsylvaniaRobert J. Elder is currently the pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Salem, Oregon. He is a graduate of Trinity University (San Antonio, Texas), Princeton Theological Seminary (M.Div.), and Drew University Theological School (D.Min.). Prior to his arrival in Salem, Elder served parishes in Amarillo, Texas, Port Arthur, Texas, and Corvallis, Oregon. He has been active in his denomination, including a term as the moderator of the Cascades Presbytery. Elder's sermons have also been widely published in preaching periodicals, including Lectionary Homiletics, where he served for four years on the editorial team.