Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday 27 December
He was called Jesus.
“And at the end of eight days, when he was circumcised, he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.” (Luke 2:21) Luke seems to be stressing to us the importance of the name Jesus since before Mary was even pregnant God told her what the child’s name would be. Why is this name important? Because Jesus’ name explains why he came to this world - he came to “save his people from their sins.”(Matt. 1:21). His name is inextricably tied to his role as savior. So, when we understand the meaning of Jesus’ name we understand his role as savior and understand the message of the gospel. The apostle Peter declares to the Jewish leaders of his day that there is “no other name under heaven...by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12) The apostle Paul tells us that “God has highly exalted him [Jesus] and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Everything about Jesus, right down to his name is about him saving men from their sins. That’s why he came, that’s why he died and that’s why he’s coming back again, so that those who have put their faith in him will live forever with him in heaven. To many “Jesus” is just another name but to us who have received the forgiveness of our sins it is the precious name of our Lord and Savior.
Pastor Don.
He was called Jesus.
“And at the end of eight days, when he was circumcised, he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.” (Luke 2:21) Luke seems to be stressing to us the importance of the name Jesus since before Mary was even pregnant God told her what the child’s name would be. Why is this name important? Because Jesus’ name explains why he came to this world - he came to “save his people from their sins.”(Matt. 1:21). His name is inextricably tied to his role as savior. So, when we understand the meaning of Jesus’ name we understand his role as savior and understand the message of the gospel. The apostle Peter declares to the Jewish leaders of his day that there is “no other name under heaven...by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12) The apostle Paul tells us that “God has highly exalted him [Jesus] and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Everything about Jesus, right down to his name is about him saving men from their sins. That’s why he came, that’s why he died and that’s why he’s coming back again, so that those who have put their faith in him will live forever with him in heaven. To many “Jesus” is just another name but to us who have received the forgiveness of our sins it is the precious name of our Lord and Savior.
Pastor Don.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Something to think about.
"We are continually faced by great opportunities brilliantly disguised as insoluble problems."
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday December 20th
“A sword shall pierce your heart also” (Luke 2:35) these words were spoken to Mary by Simeon when Mary presented Jesus at the temple. How Mary must have pondered those words with no small amount of apprehension, wondering how Jesus would pierce her heart. Jesus’ childhood years growing up in Nazareth were probably as sweet to Mary as they are to any mother; as she saw Jesus become a man she was proud of him as any mother would be when they see their children grow up to be well grounded mature adults. Those years were her happiest years, yet interwoven through them all I’m sure were moments of curiosity, expectation, fear and dread that plucked at her heart-strings. Then as Jesus entered His ministry and she sees His miracles, I’m sure her heart thrilled with excitement knowing as she did who Jesus was. She sees the multitudes following Him, cringes a little perhaps when He confronts the leaders and teachers of the law about their hypocrisy, yet over all a proud mother rejoicing in her son’s impact on the world around Him. But then the tide of His popularity begins to turn and she watches the growing jealousy, the hatred, and the unbelief on the part of the leading men of her people culminating in the darkest of days for Mary, the day they nailed her beloved son to the cross. How that must have torn her heart to pieces yet she couldn’t leave His side and so stayed at the cross to the end. Then they laid Him in a borrowed grave with Mary weeping as any mother would who must bury her son. Three days later the Resurrection! How this must have healed Mary’s heart, her son is alive again, her doubts erased! But then her son ascends into heaven and her heart is pierced again because many continue to disbelieve, scorn and hate her son! Oh how these words of Simeon were fulfilled at so many levels. Mary, you are indeed “blessed among women”, may you inspire us all to be faithful even when God’s blessing brings pain.
Pastor Don.
“A sword shall pierce your heart also” (Luke 2:35) these words were spoken to Mary by Simeon when Mary presented Jesus at the temple. How Mary must have pondered those words with no small amount of apprehension, wondering how Jesus would pierce her heart. Jesus’ childhood years growing up in Nazareth were probably as sweet to Mary as they are to any mother; as she saw Jesus become a man she was proud of him as any mother would be when they see their children grow up to be well grounded mature adults. Those years were her happiest years, yet interwoven through them all I’m sure were moments of curiosity, expectation, fear and dread that plucked at her heart-strings. Then as Jesus entered His ministry and she sees His miracles, I’m sure her heart thrilled with excitement knowing as she did who Jesus was. She sees the multitudes following Him, cringes a little perhaps when He confronts the leaders and teachers of the law about their hypocrisy, yet over all a proud mother rejoicing in her son’s impact on the world around Him. But then the tide of His popularity begins to turn and she watches the growing jealousy, the hatred, and the unbelief on the part of the leading men of her people culminating in the darkest of days for Mary, the day they nailed her beloved son to the cross. How that must have torn her heart to pieces yet she couldn’t leave His side and so stayed at the cross to the end. Then they laid Him in a borrowed grave with Mary weeping as any mother would who must bury her son. Three days later the Resurrection! How this must have healed Mary’s heart, her son is alive again, her doubts erased! But then her son ascends into heaven and her heart is pierced again because many continue to disbelieve, scorn and hate her son! Oh how these words of Simeon were fulfilled at so many levels. Mary, you are indeed “blessed among women”, may you inspire us all to be faithful even when God’s blessing brings pain.
Pastor Don.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Something to think about.
“For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ.”(2 Cor. 1:18) –Now there’s something to think about.
Pastor's Corner
Remember who you are.
In the movie “Cinderella Man” boxing legend James J. Braddock is about to enter the ring for a particularly difficult and dangerous fight and his wife gives him these words of encouragement, "So you just remember who you are," she says. "You're the Bulldog of Bergen, and the Pride of New Jersey. You're everybody's hope, and the kids' hero. And you are the champion of my heart, James J. Braddock." So too with us, when we’re facing some particularly difficult times we need to remember who we are. If you have been washed in the blood of Jesus you are a child of the King. You are the treasure of God’s heart. So many times Satan gets us thinking, “I can’t do this; it’s too hard!” That’s when we need to remember, “That’s the old me. The old me would give up but I am new in Jesus Christ and ‘I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.’” The apostle Paul tells us that God works in us to create both the desire to do His will and the power to do His will. When Satan tempted Jesus he would start with these words, “If you are the Son of God…” How arrogant, he knew there was no if about it! He knew exactly who Jesus was. He challenges us with the same words, “If you are a Christian…” Don’t listen to him. There is no “if” about it, you ARE a child of God and Satan knows it, he just wants you to doubt it. You see, when you doubt who you are the battle is already won, so remember who you are – you are a child of the almighty God! And remember who Satan is – he is a defeated foe. Jesus has already won the battle so don’t lose heart, remember, we are more than conquerors through Him who loves us. So remember who you are and where you are going.
Pastor Don.
In the movie “Cinderella Man” boxing legend James J. Braddock is about to enter the ring for a particularly difficult and dangerous fight and his wife gives him these words of encouragement, "So you just remember who you are," she says. "You're the Bulldog of Bergen, and the Pride of New Jersey. You're everybody's hope, and the kids' hero. And you are the champion of my heart, James J. Braddock." So too with us, when we’re facing some particularly difficult times we need to remember who we are. If you have been washed in the blood of Jesus you are a child of the King. You are the treasure of God’s heart. So many times Satan gets us thinking, “I can’t do this; it’s too hard!” That’s when we need to remember, “That’s the old me. The old me would give up but I am new in Jesus Christ and ‘I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.’” The apostle Paul tells us that God works in us to create both the desire to do His will and the power to do His will. When Satan tempted Jesus he would start with these words, “If you are the Son of God…” How arrogant, he knew there was no if about it! He knew exactly who Jesus was. He challenges us with the same words, “If you are a Christian…” Don’t listen to him. There is no “if” about it, you ARE a child of God and Satan knows it, he just wants you to doubt it. You see, when you doubt who you are the battle is already won, so remember who you are – you are a child of the almighty God! And remember who Satan is – he is a defeated foe. Jesus has already won the battle so don’t lose heart, remember, we are more than conquerors through Him who loves us. So remember who you are and where you are going.
Pastor Don.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Something to think about.
“Fix your eyes on Jesus, who endured the cross, so you won’t grow weary and lose heart.”.” (Heb 12:2-3)
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday December 6
“God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.”(1 Cor 10:13) God says He will not allow Satan to attack us beyond what we have the ability to withstand. Sometimes we think, “I just can’t take this anymore!” God says, “Yes you can, you’re a lot stronger than you think!” Or maybe, if God would speak directly to us He would say, “Just fight a little longer, the devil is about to give up, he’s starting to get tired, so don’t give up!” We must remember that God is faithful and if this is in my life it is because God allowed it. And if He allowed it that means that I am strong enough to deal with this; by God’s power I can win this battle. Part of the answer to our struggle is in the second part of the promise – He will provide a way out. We must look for God’s way out. I believe that in most cases we know what that way out is but we don’t take it because it’s a difficult thing to do. The way out may be that I must let go of some past hurt and forgive. That’s tough. The way out may be coming to terms that this physical handicap is not going away and every day I will need to lean on God’s power just to make it through the day. God didn’t promise easy solutions, but He did promise that nothing in life would be too heavy to carry and that He will show you a way out. So take courage for you will survive this! This too shall pass.
Pastor Don.
“God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.”(1 Cor 10:13) God says He will not allow Satan to attack us beyond what we have the ability to withstand. Sometimes we think, “I just can’t take this anymore!” God says, “Yes you can, you’re a lot stronger than you think!” Or maybe, if God would speak directly to us He would say, “Just fight a little longer, the devil is about to give up, he’s starting to get tired, so don’t give up!” We must remember that God is faithful and if this is in my life it is because God allowed it. And if He allowed it that means that I am strong enough to deal with this; by God’s power I can win this battle. Part of the answer to our struggle is in the second part of the promise – He will provide a way out. We must look for God’s way out. I believe that in most cases we know what that way out is but we don’t take it because it’s a difficult thing to do. The way out may be that I must let go of some past hurt and forgive. That’s tough. The way out may be coming to terms that this physical handicap is not going away and every day I will need to lean on God’s power just to make it through the day. God didn’t promise easy solutions, but He did promise that nothing in life would be too heavy to carry and that He will show you a way out. So take courage for you will survive this! This too shall pass.
Pastor Don.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Something to think about.
“Don’t overlook life’s small joys while searching for the big ones.” (Life’s Little Instruction Book. Vol. II)
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday November 29th
Who do you say thank you to if no one is there?
Thanking God for His blessings is as natural to us Christians as a swimming is to a duck. Thanksgiving comes naturally because Christians understand that everything we have comes from God. The fastest growing religious identity in America are those who answer the question on the survey sheet under religion with “none of the above”. They are therefore known as the “Nones”. So, who do those who don’t believe in God say thank you to on Thanksgiving Day? Perhaps they just attribute their good fortune to “luck” and are “glad” (as opposed to thankful) that they are not as bad off as someone else. I don’t know what goes on in their heads on Thanksgiving Day, but I am thankful to a God who really is there and who does in actual fact bless me with so much. Our gratitude looks to a person who has blessed us far beyond what deserve or even imagined. Top of the list of things to give thanks for is our salvation from the wrath of God through the blood of Jesus and along with Jesus God has blessed us with every spiritual blessing. Listen to Mary the mother of Jesus’ song of praise for all that God had done in her life. Her words should be our words: “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name. And his mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation...and exalted those of humble estate; he has filled the hungry with good things,...” (Luke 1:46-53)
Pastor Don.
Who do you say thank you to if no one is there?
Thanking God for His blessings is as natural to us Christians as a swimming is to a duck. Thanksgiving comes naturally because Christians understand that everything we have comes from God. The fastest growing religious identity in America are those who answer the question on the survey sheet under religion with “none of the above”. They are therefore known as the “Nones”. So, who do those who don’t believe in God say thank you to on Thanksgiving Day? Perhaps they just attribute their good fortune to “luck” and are “glad” (as opposed to thankful) that they are not as bad off as someone else. I don’t know what goes on in their heads on Thanksgiving Day, but I am thankful to a God who really is there and who does in actual fact bless me with so much. Our gratitude looks to a person who has blessed us far beyond what deserve or even imagined. Top of the list of things to give thanks for is our salvation from the wrath of God through the blood of Jesus and along with Jesus God has blessed us with every spiritual blessing. Listen to Mary the mother of Jesus’ song of praise for all that God had done in her life. Her words should be our words: “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name. And his mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation...and exalted those of humble estate; he has filled the hungry with good things,...” (Luke 1:46-53)
Pastor Don.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Something to Think About
"God prospers me not to raise my standard of living but to raise my standard of giving. God gives us more money than we need so that we can give generously." Randy Alcorn.
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday November 15th
“by him (Jesus)God reconciled everything to himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth by means of his blood on the cross.” (Col 1:20)
God made peace through the blood of Jesus because through the blood of Jesus God cleansed us from our sin and thus reconciled us to Himself. Peace and reconciliation always go together. Reconciliation brings peace and to make peace is to be reconciled. Since God made peace with us by reconciling us to Himself we are to seek peace by being reconciled with those with whom we have broken relationships. Reconciliation is gained through forgiveness, and that’s where the crunch comes because forgiveness is really hard sometimes, but without forgiveness there can be no reconciliation and without reconciliation there can be no peace. I am confident that if you examine those areas of your life that are not marked by peace that you will find sin is lurking there because sin is at the root of all discord. It may be resentment; it may be anger; it may be a stubborn unforgiving attitude; it may selfishness; it may be suspicion; whatever it is, there’s only one way to deal with it and that is through the cross. Bring these things to Jesus, ask His forgiveness and leave it there at the cross. The peace we so desperately want is there at the cross. At the cross we find forgiveness and through the cross we learn to forgive. Be reconciled to God and be reconciled to one another.
Pastor Don.
“by him (Jesus)God reconciled everything to himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth by means of his blood on the cross.” (Col 1:20)
God made peace through the blood of Jesus because through the blood of Jesus God cleansed us from our sin and thus reconciled us to Himself. Peace and reconciliation always go together. Reconciliation brings peace and to make peace is to be reconciled. Since God made peace with us by reconciling us to Himself we are to seek peace by being reconciled with those with whom we have broken relationships. Reconciliation is gained through forgiveness, and that’s where the crunch comes because forgiveness is really hard sometimes, but without forgiveness there can be no reconciliation and without reconciliation there can be no peace. I am confident that if you examine those areas of your life that are not marked by peace that you will find sin is lurking there because sin is at the root of all discord. It may be resentment; it may be anger; it may be a stubborn unforgiving attitude; it may selfishness; it may be suspicion; whatever it is, there’s only one way to deal with it and that is through the cross. Bring these things to Jesus, ask His forgiveness and leave it there at the cross. The peace we so desperately want is there at the cross. At the cross we find forgiveness and through the cross we learn to forgive. Be reconciled to God and be reconciled to one another.
Pastor Don.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Something to think about.
"Live every day like it's your last, 'cause one day you will be right."
Ray Charles from Esquire magazine.
Ray Charles from Esquire magazine.
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday Nov. 8
What’s killing you?
Because of the wickedness of the Amalekites, God told King Saul to kill everything and everyone. But Saul disobeyed and saved king Agag’s life. Later, King Saul was wounded and because he feared he would be captured and tortured he killed himself with his own sword. T.D. Jakes, the African American preacher, makes this comment about this event in King Saul’s life, “The sword that should have killed Agag killed Saul! If you don’t kill what God commands you to kill, it will kill you!” What a profound truth! If you don’t kill what God has commanded you to kill, those things will kill you. What is there in your life that God has said for you to kill? Is it pride? Is it envy? Is it an addiction? Is it anger? The apostle Paul says, “So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual sin, impurity, lust, and shameful desires. Don’t be greedy for the good things of this life, for that is idolatry…get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language. Don’t lie to each other.” If you do not put these things to death they will kill you. They will drag you down and rob your life of joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. We can only kill these things by God’s Spirit living in us. So in the power of the Holy Spirit, hunt down those sinful, earthly things lurking within you and kill them before they kill you.
Pastor Don.
What’s killing you?
Because of the wickedness of the Amalekites, God told King Saul to kill everything and everyone. But Saul disobeyed and saved king Agag’s life. Later, King Saul was wounded and because he feared he would be captured and tortured he killed himself with his own sword. T.D. Jakes, the African American preacher, makes this comment about this event in King Saul’s life, “The sword that should have killed Agag killed Saul! If you don’t kill what God commands you to kill, it will kill you!” What a profound truth! If you don’t kill what God has commanded you to kill, those things will kill you. What is there in your life that God has said for you to kill? Is it pride? Is it envy? Is it an addiction? Is it anger? The apostle Paul says, “So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual sin, impurity, lust, and shameful desires. Don’t be greedy for the good things of this life, for that is idolatry…get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language. Don’t lie to each other.” If you do not put these things to death they will kill you. They will drag you down and rob your life of joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. We can only kill these things by God’s Spirit living in us. So in the power of the Holy Spirit, hunt down those sinful, earthly things lurking within you and kill them before they kill you.
Pastor Don.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Something to think about.
“Everyone loves praise. So look hard for ways to give it to them.” (Life’s Little Instruction Book”
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday Nov. 1st
I am going there to prepare a place for you.
According to the Jewish custom at the time of Jesus, when a man and woman wanted to marry there was a certain protocol they had to go through before they lived together. The bridegroom would return to his father’s home and build new rooms onto it so that he could bring his young bride home. This betrothal typically lasted a year, giving the man time to build a home for himself and his bride and for the young girl to prepare herself for marriage. However, the young man could only bring his bride home when his father declared that the building was complete. Once his father approved of the dwelling he could then go and get his bride and bring her home. Perhaps this is the picture Jesus had in mind when He said, “In my Father’s house are many rooms…I am going there to prepare a place for you” (John 14:2—3). This word-picture presented Jesus as a bridegroom, preparing new rooms for his bride in His Father’s house. Perhaps too, when Jesus describes his second coming He’s referring to this tradition of a young bridegroom, waiting for his father’s approval to return for his bride: “No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, not the Son, but only the Father” (Matt. 24:36). Imagine the bride’s anticipation as she waited for her groom to come and take her to their new home. She wouldn’t know when her groom was coming, just that he would come as soon as their home was ready. Wouldn’t she be thinking, “Hurry and finish preparing our home so we can be together.”? As for me I can’t wait!
Pastor Don.
I am going there to prepare a place for you.
According to the Jewish custom at the time of Jesus, when a man and woman wanted to marry there was a certain protocol they had to go through before they lived together. The bridegroom would return to his father’s home and build new rooms onto it so that he could bring his young bride home. This betrothal typically lasted a year, giving the man time to build a home for himself and his bride and for the young girl to prepare herself for marriage. However, the young man could only bring his bride home when his father declared that the building was complete. Once his father approved of the dwelling he could then go and get his bride and bring her home. Perhaps this is the picture Jesus had in mind when He said, “In my Father’s house are many rooms…I am going there to prepare a place for you” (John 14:2—3). This word-picture presented Jesus as a bridegroom, preparing new rooms for his bride in His Father’s house. Perhaps too, when Jesus describes his second coming He’s referring to this tradition of a young bridegroom, waiting for his father’s approval to return for his bride: “No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, not the Son, but only the Father” (Matt. 24:36). Imagine the bride’s anticipation as she waited for her groom to come and take her to their new home. She wouldn’t know when her groom was coming, just that he would come as soon as their home was ready. Wouldn’t she be thinking, “Hurry and finish preparing our home so we can be together.”? As for me I can’t wait!
Pastor Don.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Something to think about.
"Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds you plant."
Robert L. Stevenson
Robert L. Stevenson
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday October 25
“…he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Phil 1:6) If you’ve ever taken a hard honest look at yourself you may have wondered if you are really saved. Sometimes the slow progress we’re making is discouraging; it may seem like you take one step forward and two steps back. This scripture is a promise from God that He will finish what He started. This work of grace in your heart is something that HE began and since He started it He will finish it! God always finishes what He starts. The Christian life is often referred to as a race, but it’s not a race that you win by being first. It’s not important to get there first it’s only important that you finish! And God has made the commitment to you that He will make sure that you cross the finish line. Why would He do that? Because it brings glory to Him. Knowing this gives us the confidence to live boldly for God. Boldness to live out each day without fear that something may happen to me or that I will do something wrong that will rob me of my destiny. Everything that happens in your life God is using to bring you to glory. God will finish what He has started - now, isn't that good news?!
Pastor Don
“…he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Phil 1:6) If you’ve ever taken a hard honest look at yourself you may have wondered if you are really saved. Sometimes the slow progress we’re making is discouraging; it may seem like you take one step forward and two steps back. This scripture is a promise from God that He will finish what He started. This work of grace in your heart is something that HE began and since He started it He will finish it! God always finishes what He starts. The Christian life is often referred to as a race, but it’s not a race that you win by being first. It’s not important to get there first it’s only important that you finish! And God has made the commitment to you that He will make sure that you cross the finish line. Why would He do that? Because it brings glory to Him. Knowing this gives us the confidence to live boldly for God. Boldness to live out each day without fear that something may happen to me or that I will do something wrong that will rob me of my destiny. Everything that happens in your life God is using to bring you to glory. God will finish what He has started - now, isn't that good news?!
Pastor Don
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Something to think about.
“Don’t confuse comfort with happiness and don’t confuse wealth with success.” (Life’s Little Instruction Book. Vol. II)
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday October 18th
“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 If you do this, you will experience God’s peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.8 And now, dear brothers and sisters, let me say one more thing as I close this letter. Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. 9 Keep putting into practice all you learned from me and heard from me and saw me doing, and the God of peace will be with you.”(Phil. 4:6-9) The apostle Paul gives us several key elements in building our relationship with God. First: pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all that he has done. Second: fill your mind with things that are honorable, true and right. Don’t let the lies of the devil control your thought life. Truth about God; truth about His promises; truth about the right way to live your life, these are the things we should be thinking about. And thirdly: practice all that you have learned. You have to get out there and put all this into action. Action means we are convinced in the truthfulness of God’s claims and promises, if we don’t do it we don’t really believe it. Action pulls it all together. A cord of three strands is hard to break, a relationship with God that is characterized by prayer, meditation and action will be strong and unbreakable. Read those verses again, they really are worth thinking about.
Pastor Don.
“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 If you do this, you will experience God’s peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.8 And now, dear brothers and sisters, let me say one more thing as I close this letter. Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. 9 Keep putting into practice all you learned from me and heard from me and saw me doing, and the God of peace will be with you.”(Phil. 4:6-9) The apostle Paul gives us several key elements in building our relationship with God. First: pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all that he has done. Second: fill your mind with things that are honorable, true and right. Don’t let the lies of the devil control your thought life. Truth about God; truth about His promises; truth about the right way to live your life, these are the things we should be thinking about. And thirdly: practice all that you have learned. You have to get out there and put all this into action. Action means we are convinced in the truthfulness of God’s claims and promises, if we don’t do it we don’t really believe it. Action pulls it all together. A cord of three strands is hard to break, a relationship with God that is characterized by prayer, meditation and action will be strong and unbreakable. Read those verses again, they really are worth thinking about.
Pastor Don.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Something to Think About
"You can measure a man by the size of the thing that discourages him." - Winston Churchill"
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday October 11th
Life is most difficult when God’s promises seem incompatible with my reality.
Abraham and Sarah were promised a son when they were both past that age of being able to have children. David was anointed king and then was hunted like a fugitive by King Saul. Israel was promised a land of their own but they were slaves in Egypt.
Often we experience the same thing. Our reality seems to make God’s promises impossible. For example, God has promised that He will take care of all our needs yet there is a LOT of month at the end of the money! We just don’t know how we’re going to make it. God has promised to never leave us or forsake us yet my marriage is falling apart; or the kids are out of control; or my job is totally draining emotionally and God just doesn’t seem near at all! We’re tired and frustrated and we just want out, so we quit our jobs for bigger money and better benefits; or we get divorced because we’re tired, angry, bored and unhappy. No, it’s not easy when God’s promises seem incompatible with the reality of my life. This is why the bible encourages us over and over to stand firm on the promises of God in spite of the storm the rages around you. Focus on God not the storm; believe in Him not the apparent “reality” of your life. Despite the seemingly impossibility of Abraham, David and Israel’s situation mentioned above, God’s promises did come true. Don’t run from the struggle God intends for your good because, God’s greatest blessings arrive after we have struggled through the uncertain misery of today.
Pastor Don.
Life is most difficult when God’s promises seem incompatible with my reality.
Abraham and Sarah were promised a son when they were both past that age of being able to have children. David was anointed king and then was hunted like a fugitive by King Saul. Israel was promised a land of their own but they were slaves in Egypt.
Often we experience the same thing. Our reality seems to make God’s promises impossible. For example, God has promised that He will take care of all our needs yet there is a LOT of month at the end of the money! We just don’t know how we’re going to make it. God has promised to never leave us or forsake us yet my marriage is falling apart; or the kids are out of control; or my job is totally draining emotionally and God just doesn’t seem near at all! We’re tired and frustrated and we just want out, so we quit our jobs for bigger money and better benefits; or we get divorced because we’re tired, angry, bored and unhappy. No, it’s not easy when God’s promises seem incompatible with the reality of my life. This is why the bible encourages us over and over to stand firm on the promises of God in spite of the storm the rages around you. Focus on God not the storm; believe in Him not the apparent “reality” of your life. Despite the seemingly impossibility of Abraham, David and Israel’s situation mentioned above, God’s promises did come true. Don’t run from the struggle God intends for your good because, God’s greatest blessings arrive after we have struggled through the uncertain misery of today.
Pastor Don.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Something To Think About
In Jesus’ parable of the Good Samaritan the Levite asked, 'If I stop to help this man, what will happen to me?' But the Samaritan reversed the question: 'If I do not stop to help this man, what will happen to him?'" (Dr. Martin Luther King from the Mountaintop sermon)
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday October 4th
God is never late
Jesus’ friend Lazarus was very sick and so Mary and Martha sent word to Jesus hoping that He would come and heal Lazarus. By the time Jesus did arrive Lazarus had died and had been buried four days earlier. Martha was disappointed that Jesus had arrived so late, in fact in her mind He had arrived TOO late. Lazarus was dead and his body had already started to decay, what could Jesus do now?! Jesus simply raised Lazarus from the dead! Have you ever has a situation develop where you thought, “What can Jesus do now? I’m already late with the rent” or, “I have no money, no way of earning more and I need food today!” We are at the end of OUR resources but God is only getting started. Too often we feel like Martha did, that Jesus is simply TOO LATE! But, when we get to the end of our resources that’s where we find God. Not only has God got the power to do mighty things but I’m always amazed at the creative ways in which He works those miracles. He feeds Elijah with ravens; he parts the Red Sea for Moses; sends manna from the sky to feed His people in the desert for forty years! He sends an angel to free Peter from jail. We could go on and on. So when you are in a tight spot look with anticipation for God’s provision. He’s never too late and He is never out of creative ways to do it either. As Moses told the people of Israel, “Don’t be afraid! Stand your ground, and you will see what the LORD will do to save you today.” Stand back and watch Him work!
Pastor Don.
God is never late
Jesus’ friend Lazarus was very sick and so Mary and Martha sent word to Jesus hoping that He would come and heal Lazarus. By the time Jesus did arrive Lazarus had died and had been buried four days earlier. Martha was disappointed that Jesus had arrived so late, in fact in her mind He had arrived TOO late. Lazarus was dead and his body had already started to decay, what could Jesus do now?! Jesus simply raised Lazarus from the dead! Have you ever has a situation develop where you thought, “What can Jesus do now? I’m already late with the rent” or, “I have no money, no way of earning more and I need food today!” We are at the end of OUR resources but God is only getting started. Too often we feel like Martha did, that Jesus is simply TOO LATE! But, when we get to the end of our resources that’s where we find God. Not only has God got the power to do mighty things but I’m always amazed at the creative ways in which He works those miracles. He feeds Elijah with ravens; he parts the Red Sea for Moses; sends manna from the sky to feed His people in the desert for forty years! He sends an angel to free Peter from jail. We could go on and on. So when you are in a tight spot look with anticipation for God’s provision. He’s never too late and He is never out of creative ways to do it either. As Moses told the people of Israel, “Don’t be afraid! Stand your ground, and you will see what the LORD will do to save you today.” Stand back and watch Him work!
Pastor Don.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Something to Think About
“There's only one thing more painful than learning from experience, and that's not learning from experience” Archibald MacLeish
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday Sept. 27th
“Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.” (Prov. 16:24) Kindness and kind words are sweet and healthy for our body. Both in receiving kindness and in showing kindness. Research has shown that a simple act of kindness directed towards another improves the functioning of the immune system and stimulates the production of serotonin in both the recipient of kindness and the person extending kindness. Even more amazing is that persons observing the act of kindness have similar beneficial results. Those of us whom God has saved have experienced God rich kindness and mercy, we then need to reach out in kindness and compassion to others, we need to be looking for ways that we can affirm people, to build them up, to remind them that they have value because they are created in the image of God! There is so much in life that presses down on us; that questions our worth and value, a single act of kindness or kind words can make a world of difference in someone’s life. Your kindness and kind words may not change their lives but it will certainly change their day, and it will make your day better too. (Then again, maybe it will change their life.)
Pastor Don.
“Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.” (Prov. 16:24) Kindness and kind words are sweet and healthy for our body. Both in receiving kindness and in showing kindness. Research has shown that a simple act of kindness directed towards another improves the functioning of the immune system and stimulates the production of serotonin in both the recipient of kindness and the person extending kindness. Even more amazing is that persons observing the act of kindness have similar beneficial results. Those of us whom God has saved have experienced God rich kindness and mercy, we then need to reach out in kindness and compassion to others, we need to be looking for ways that we can affirm people, to build them up, to remind them that they have value because they are created in the image of God! There is so much in life that presses down on us; that questions our worth and value, a single act of kindness or kind words can make a world of difference in someone’s life. Your kindness and kind words may not change their lives but it will certainly change their day, and it will make your day better too. (Then again, maybe it will change their life.)
Pastor Don.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday 20 September
God’s Changes in God’s Time.
If you’ve owned a house or own a house you know that maintenance is an ongoing dynamic. And, if you’ve ever lived in your house while some extensive remodeling is being done you will have experienced some inconvenience to say the least. But you grit your teeth and work around it because you know that the result will be worth the inconvenience and you also know that worthwhile changes don’t happen overnight. Perhaps you live in an old house you have wanted a newer house so that there won’t be as much to fix, but you know that ALL houses, new and old, have to be maintained.
Our lives are like that too. New Christian or old we need constant maintenance, no one gets to a place where they no longer need change, in fact ALL of us need such major remodeling that it will take the rest of our lives to finish. When it comes to our houses we know and expect to have to do changes and ongoing maintenance. Yet when we come to our lives we’re impatient with how long it takes to change; and of course, we hate the inconvenience that change brings. Here’s a verse that may help us keep our perspective, “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” (2 Cor 4:16-18.) Remember that God is remodeling you to look like Jesus; the result will be worth the wait and the inconvenience, I promise.
Pastor Don.
God’s Changes in God’s Time.
If you’ve owned a house or own a house you know that maintenance is an ongoing dynamic. And, if you’ve ever lived in your house while some extensive remodeling is being done you will have experienced some inconvenience to say the least. But you grit your teeth and work around it because you know that the result will be worth the inconvenience and you also know that worthwhile changes don’t happen overnight. Perhaps you live in an old house you have wanted a newer house so that there won’t be as much to fix, but you know that ALL houses, new and old, have to be maintained.
Our lives are like that too. New Christian or old we need constant maintenance, no one gets to a place where they no longer need change, in fact ALL of us need such major remodeling that it will take the rest of our lives to finish. When it comes to our houses we know and expect to have to do changes and ongoing maintenance. Yet when we come to our lives we’re impatient with how long it takes to change; and of course, we hate the inconvenience that change brings. Here’s a verse that may help us keep our perspective, “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” (2 Cor 4:16-18.) Remember that God is remodeling you to look like Jesus; the result will be worth the wait and the inconvenience, I promise.
Pastor Don.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday 6th September
“Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him.” (Psa. 37:7)
In the movie “Star wars” the recurring theme for Anakin is, “Wait”. He is encouraged over and over to wait for time and maturity to make him the master Jedi he aspires to be. But Anakin does not want to wait which causes him to make bad choices which in turn lead him down a path of self destruction. But Anakin is not the only one who struggles with “waiting”. The bible often exhorts us, like the verse above, to “Wait upon the Lord”. This is a recurring theme in the bible, but how often do we listen? We convince ourselves that we must have this now which leads to bad choices and then we find ourselves in a relationship that doesn’t work; or with debt that is causes huge stress in our lives and marriages; etc. God knows that this is a struggle for us and so He frequently tells us to “wait for Him”. So, it boils down to trust, doesn’t it? Do I really believe that God will supply, not only my needs but also the “desires of my heart”? (Psa 37:4) When I become convinced that God has my best interests at heart then I “wait patiently for Him”. I’m not in a hurry to get married; get another job; buy that “once-in-a-life-time” bargain; get that new car, house, etc – because He will supply my need “in time, on time, every time”. So, relax and wait upon the Lord. His timing is always perfect.
Pastor Don.
“Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him.” (Psa. 37:7)
In the movie “Star wars” the recurring theme for Anakin is, “Wait”. He is encouraged over and over to wait for time and maturity to make him the master Jedi he aspires to be. But Anakin does not want to wait which causes him to make bad choices which in turn lead him down a path of self destruction. But Anakin is not the only one who struggles with “waiting”. The bible often exhorts us, like the verse above, to “Wait upon the Lord”. This is a recurring theme in the bible, but how often do we listen? We convince ourselves that we must have this now which leads to bad choices and then we find ourselves in a relationship that doesn’t work; or with debt that is causes huge stress in our lives and marriages; etc. God knows that this is a struggle for us and so He frequently tells us to “wait for Him”. So, it boils down to trust, doesn’t it? Do I really believe that God will supply, not only my needs but also the “desires of my heart”? (Psa 37:4) When I become convinced that God has my best interests at heart then I “wait patiently for Him”. I’m not in a hurry to get married; get another job; buy that “once-in-a-life-time” bargain; get that new car, house, etc – because He will supply my need “in time, on time, every time”. So, relax and wait upon the Lord. His timing is always perfect.
Pastor Don.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Something to think about.
“You must do your own growing, no matter how tall (or short) your father was”
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday Aug. 30th
Refined by Fire.
“He [God] will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.” (Malachi 3:3) We all know that to refine silver it has to be refined in fire. This process brings the impurities to the top where the silver smith scrapes it off. Now, this is the cool part, when the silver smith can see his face in the molten silver he knows that he has removed all the impurities. So, when God says that He is like a silver smith refining us, two very profound truths are brought out. First, God through the “fire” of struggle and pain is removing the impurities from our lives. Those things that get in our way; those things that keep us from being all that God wants us to be are removed from our lives. And, these are things that only fire can remove. They are things that we do not let go of easily and so struggle and pain are required to make us let go of them. The second truth is that God wants to see His “face” in our lives! Who doesn’t want to reflect the image of God? So, this gives us a very positive attitude to struggle and pain in our lives. When I am a baby in Jesus there is too much of me and therefore the image of God is not very clear at all. A lot of selfishness and pride has to be removed before people can see God clearly. My hard and insensitive heart must be softened and then Jesus can be seen in me. Our times of struggle and pain are not easy times, but we can glory in these times knowing that “your reward for trusting him will be the salvation of your souls.”(1 Pet 1:9)
Pastor Don
Refined by Fire.
“He [God] will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.” (Malachi 3:3) We all know that to refine silver it has to be refined in fire. This process brings the impurities to the top where the silver smith scrapes it off. Now, this is the cool part, when the silver smith can see his face in the molten silver he knows that he has removed all the impurities. So, when God says that He is like a silver smith refining us, two very profound truths are brought out. First, God through the “fire” of struggle and pain is removing the impurities from our lives. Those things that get in our way; those things that keep us from being all that God wants us to be are removed from our lives. And, these are things that only fire can remove. They are things that we do not let go of easily and so struggle and pain are required to make us let go of them. The second truth is that God wants to see His “face” in our lives! Who doesn’t want to reflect the image of God? So, this gives us a very positive attitude to struggle and pain in our lives. When I am a baby in Jesus there is too much of me and therefore the image of God is not very clear at all. A lot of selfishness and pride has to be removed before people can see God clearly. My hard and insensitive heart must be softened and then Jesus can be seen in me. Our times of struggle and pain are not easy times, but we can glory in these times knowing that “your reward for trusting him will be the salvation of your souls.”(1 Pet 1:9)
Pastor Don
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday Aug 23
What makes life valuable?
What makes you valuable as a person? What gives you the right to live? Does the amount you cost society make a difference? Does the impact you have on the environment make a difference? I ask this because there is steady effort to devalue human life at every level. Back in 2005 we had the Terri Schiavo case where her life was terminated because someone decided that her life was no longer important; that she didn’t matter anymore. Her death was the frightening yet logical result of a culture that has replaced God with moral relativism and so judge certain people to be "defective" and believe that their quality of life is not worth the effort or expense to preserve or maintain. It would be better, they say, for all involved if these “defective” (read old, sick, unproductive) people moved on quietly and peacefully. Just look at the new proposed Health program that would “ration” health care for evidence of this mindset. Now, a pair of scientists at Oregon State University, Paul A. Murtaugh and Michael G. Schlax, suggest that the answer to the environmental consequences of carbon emissions is to reduce the number of children born. They say that a child adds 9441 metric tons of carbon dioxide to the carbon legacy of an average female. Their theory is simple, having less children is the most effective way to reduce our “carbon foot-print”. What this means is that a person’s worth is reduced to the “quality” of their life, or cost effective criteria, or the size of their “carbon foot-print”. But here’s the truth, our significance and worth is given us by God. The bible says God breathed into Adam and he became a living being – we have God’s breath in us! God made us in His own image, nothing else in all of creation is created in the image of God, therefore, the world was made for us, not us for the world. We don’t dispose of people to enhance the planet. In fact, we use the planet to enhance the lives of people. EVERY PERSON is valuable and their life is significant and worth living simply because God gave them life and that’s enough reason for us do all that we can to improve the quality of their life and do what’s necessary to keep them alive.
Pastor Don.
What makes life valuable?
What makes you valuable as a person? What gives you the right to live? Does the amount you cost society make a difference? Does the impact you have on the environment make a difference? I ask this because there is steady effort to devalue human life at every level. Back in 2005 we had the Terri Schiavo case where her life was terminated because someone decided that her life was no longer important; that she didn’t matter anymore. Her death was the frightening yet logical result of a culture that has replaced God with moral relativism and so judge certain people to be "defective" and believe that their quality of life is not worth the effort or expense to preserve or maintain. It would be better, they say, for all involved if these “defective” (read old, sick, unproductive) people moved on quietly and peacefully. Just look at the new proposed Health program that would “ration” health care for evidence of this mindset. Now, a pair of scientists at Oregon State University, Paul A. Murtaugh and Michael G. Schlax, suggest that the answer to the environmental consequences of carbon emissions is to reduce the number of children born. They say that a child adds 9441 metric tons of carbon dioxide to the carbon legacy of an average female. Their theory is simple, having less children is the most effective way to reduce our “carbon foot-print”. What this means is that a person’s worth is reduced to the “quality” of their life, or cost effective criteria, or the size of their “carbon foot-print”. But here’s the truth, our significance and worth is given us by God. The bible says God breathed into Adam and he became a living being – we have God’s breath in us! God made us in His own image, nothing else in all of creation is created in the image of God, therefore, the world was made for us, not us for the world. We don’t dispose of people to enhance the planet. In fact, we use the planet to enhance the lives of people. EVERY PERSON is valuable and their life is significant and worth living simply because God gave them life and that’s enough reason for us do all that we can to improve the quality of their life and do what’s necessary to keep them alive.
Pastor Don.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday Aug 9th
Are you wasting your life?
Jesus said, “If you try to keep your life for yourself, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake and for the sake of the Good News, you will find true life. And how do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul in the process? Is anything worth more than your soul?” Mark 8:35-37 What is Jesus saying? He’s asking, “What are you doing with your life?! Are you investing your life or wasting it?!” Do you really want to get to the end of your life and find out that you wasted your life?! What a terrible thought. Can there be a more significant question than this? Some people find the question too penetrating and so move on to something else. But true disciples of Jesus confront the issues that Jesus puts before them. This is a question Jesus wants me to ask and answer – “What am I doing with my life?” Are we investing or wasting our lives? If you live your life for Jesus you will invest in your life, but if you live for yourself you will waste it! But here’s what tough, if you want to invest in eternity you have to hand your life over to Jesus. Jesus must be LORD of my life not just an adviser. Advice is something we can take or leave. I don’t have to follow someone’s advice. If I don’t like it I can reject it. But Lordship is different. If Jesus is Lord then what He asks of me is not optional, I must obey whether I agree or not; whether I like it or not. Turning my life over to Jesus is hard to do, but here’s the reality – if you are not investing your life in Jesus you are simply wasting your life, and that’s tragic.
Pastor Don.
Are you wasting your life?
Jesus said, “If you try to keep your life for yourself, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake and for the sake of the Good News, you will find true life. And how do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul in the process? Is anything worth more than your soul?” Mark 8:35-37 What is Jesus saying? He’s asking, “What are you doing with your life?! Are you investing your life or wasting it?!” Do you really want to get to the end of your life and find out that you wasted your life?! What a terrible thought. Can there be a more significant question than this? Some people find the question too penetrating and so move on to something else. But true disciples of Jesus confront the issues that Jesus puts before them. This is a question Jesus wants me to ask and answer – “What am I doing with my life?” Are we investing or wasting our lives? If you live your life for Jesus you will invest in your life, but if you live for yourself you will waste it! But here’s what tough, if you want to invest in eternity you have to hand your life over to Jesus. Jesus must be LORD of my life not just an adviser. Advice is something we can take or leave. I don’t have to follow someone’s advice. If I don’t like it I can reject it. But Lordship is different. If Jesus is Lord then what He asks of me is not optional, I must obey whether I agree or not; whether I like it or not. Turning my life over to Jesus is hard to do, but here’s the reality – if you are not investing your life in Jesus you are simply wasting your life, and that’s tragic.
Pastor Don.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Something to Think About
“Money often brings options, but it doesn't necessarily add value to your life”
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday Aug 9th
“Daddy! You came for me!”
I was hesitant to watch the movie “Taken” but I must confess that I really enjoyed the movie. “Taken” is about a teen age girl who goes to Paris without her parents (and against her dad’s better judgment). While there she and the girl she traveled with are abducted by a mob group who traffic in women, and they are going to auction the girls off to the highest bidder. Fortunately for her, her dad is an ex-CIA agent who has the courage, the skills and the determination needed to find and rescue his daughter. What is so clear in this movie is that these girls are completely helpless and unless someone comes and rescues her she will be sold to the highest bidder and we can only imagine the terrible future that awaits her. While watching the movie I was struck by how this parallels our story of redemption. We too were “taken” captive by evil forces; while under Satan’s power, we were slaves to sin and we had no choice but to comply with his wishes. We were totally helpless to free ourselves from this situation, and unless someone came to rescue us we had no hope of ever being free and our future was a terrifying one. But God, by His grace sent Jesus who engaged the fury of the demonic world and recued us from Satan’s grasp. He has washed away our filth with His blood and has clothed us in garments of righteousness. We are free and we are safe! In the closing minutes of the movie, when she is rescued by her father she says, “Daddy! You came for me!” I don’t know about you, but I’m glad my father came for me!
Pastor Don.
“Daddy! You came for me!”
I was hesitant to watch the movie “Taken” but I must confess that I really enjoyed the movie. “Taken” is about a teen age girl who goes to Paris without her parents (and against her dad’s better judgment). While there she and the girl she traveled with are abducted by a mob group who traffic in women, and they are going to auction the girls off to the highest bidder. Fortunately for her, her dad is an ex-CIA agent who has the courage, the skills and the determination needed to find and rescue his daughter. What is so clear in this movie is that these girls are completely helpless and unless someone comes and rescues her she will be sold to the highest bidder and we can only imagine the terrible future that awaits her. While watching the movie I was struck by how this parallels our story of redemption. We too were “taken” captive by evil forces; while under Satan’s power, we were slaves to sin and we had no choice but to comply with his wishes. We were totally helpless to free ourselves from this situation, and unless someone came to rescue us we had no hope of ever being free and our future was a terrifying one. But God, by His grace sent Jesus who engaged the fury of the demonic world and recued us from Satan’s grasp. He has washed away our filth with His blood and has clothed us in garments of righteousness. We are free and we are safe! In the closing minutes of the movie, when she is rescued by her father she says, “Daddy! You came for me!” I don’t know about you, but I’m glad my father came for me!
Pastor Don.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday Aug. 2nd
It’s a heart issue.
“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” (Psa. 119:11) “Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds” (Deut. 11:18) What does it mean to hide God’s word in our hearts? Of course, it doesn’t mean hiding in the sense that no one can see my God-centered beliefs, but hidden in the sense that they are deeply planted in my heart so as to shape my life. The heart is who you are and this is what God loves and so He would have your heart full of His word and therefore full of Him. How does God’s word become hidden in our hearts? I hear the word and understand it. I then reflect upon it and meditate upon it. But at this point it’s not in the heart; it’s only in the mind. Only when in faith I believe what I’ve heard and surrender to it does it become hidden in my heart. With His word filling your heart He will greatly bless your life because “His word won’t return to Him empty”. God’s word is seed and seed must have time and stay in the ground in order for it to grow. So God’s word must be carried in the heart and with time fruit will grow. Read again the verses at the beginning and hear them as God’s word to you. Continue to read His word every day, God has promised to make His word a blessing in your heart and He will make His word living and powerful in you.
Pastor Don (Adapted from an article by Andrew Murray)
It’s a heart issue.
“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” (Psa. 119:11) “Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds” (Deut. 11:18) What does it mean to hide God’s word in our hearts? Of course, it doesn’t mean hiding in the sense that no one can see my God-centered beliefs, but hidden in the sense that they are deeply planted in my heart so as to shape my life. The heart is who you are and this is what God loves and so He would have your heart full of His word and therefore full of Him. How does God’s word become hidden in our hearts? I hear the word and understand it. I then reflect upon it and meditate upon it. But at this point it’s not in the heart; it’s only in the mind. Only when in faith I believe what I’ve heard and surrender to it does it become hidden in my heart. With His word filling your heart He will greatly bless your life because “His word won’t return to Him empty”. God’s word is seed and seed must have time and stay in the ground in order for it to grow. So God’s word must be carried in the heart and with time fruit will grow. Read again the verses at the beginning and hear them as God’s word to you. Continue to read His word every day, God has promised to make His word a blessing in your heart and He will make His word living and powerful in you.
Pastor Don (Adapted from an article by Andrew Murray)
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Something to think about.
Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed. Prov. 19:17
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday 26 July
God’s promises, a hedge against anxiety.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God... And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” (Phil 4:6,19) When you think about it, “Don’t be anxious about ANYTHING” is quit an audacious statement. Can you really be totally free from anxiety? The reason Paul can speak so boldly is because of two things: First, make your requests known to God and second, God will supply every need according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. This is a promise, that if we were to believe with absolute confidence, we would not be anxious about anything! Paul does not say God will give you everything you ask for but that He will supply every need. There are many things that I have asked for that God has not given, but there has never been a need that He has not met. Anxiety is really unbelief in the provision of God; a lack of faith that He will keep His promise to supply our EVERY need. Perhaps that’s why Paul adds that God will supply according to His riches. God’s ability to provide is because He owns everything - He is rich! He has no lack therefore He can supply what is lacking in our lives. You can be totally free from anxiety. Overcome your anxiety by standing on the promises of God and the knowledge that God keeps His promises.
Pastor Don.
God’s promises, a hedge against anxiety.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God... And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” (Phil 4:6,19) When you think about it, “Don’t be anxious about ANYTHING” is quit an audacious statement. Can you really be totally free from anxiety? The reason Paul can speak so boldly is because of two things: First, make your requests known to God and second, God will supply every need according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. This is a promise, that if we were to believe with absolute confidence, we would not be anxious about anything! Paul does not say God will give you everything you ask for but that He will supply every need. There are many things that I have asked for that God has not given, but there has never been a need that He has not met. Anxiety is really unbelief in the provision of God; a lack of faith that He will keep His promise to supply our EVERY need. Perhaps that’s why Paul adds that God will supply according to His riches. God’s ability to provide is because He owns everything - He is rich! He has no lack therefore He can supply what is lacking in our lives. You can be totally free from anxiety. Overcome your anxiety by standing on the promises of God and the knowledge that God keeps His promises.
Pastor Don.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Something to think about.
“I've learned - That love, not time, heals all wounds. And, that no one is perfect until you fall in love with them.”
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday July 19th
On this rock I stand ALL other ground is sinking sand.
‘David gave these orders to Joab and his commanders: "Take a census of all the people…” God was very displeased with the census.’ (1 Chron. 21:1-7)
I’m not going to go into why God was displeased with David taking this census, but from the passage it seems clear that David wanted to know how many “fighting men” he had at his disposal. Had David’s faith had shifted from God as the protector of Israel to the number of soldiers he had at his disposal? I mention this story because it’s an easy shift to make. For example, if you had a million dollars in the bank, would that make you feel safer? Would you worry less about your future with that kind of money in the bank? If you have a new car do you worry less about breaking down? If you have worked a long time for the same company do you feel less threatened by lay-offs? There’s nothing wrong with having money in the bank for the inevitable crises that will come; or a new car as opposed to an old one. The question I need to ask myself all the time is, “What is the source of my confidence? Is it God or my resources?” Jesus knew we would struggle with this so He said, “I want you to do just one thing. Seek God and His righteousness and I will take care of the rest.” He does it for the rest of nature He will do it for us too.
So, as we provide for our future by saving our money and try to make wise decisions regarding our future remember you are safe because God is your provider not because you have great wealth.
Pastor Don.
On this rock I stand ALL other ground is sinking sand.
‘David gave these orders to Joab and his commanders: "Take a census of all the people…” God was very displeased with the census.’ (1 Chron. 21:1-7)
I’m not going to go into why God was displeased with David taking this census, but from the passage it seems clear that David wanted to know how many “fighting men” he had at his disposal. Had David’s faith had shifted from God as the protector of Israel to the number of soldiers he had at his disposal? I mention this story because it’s an easy shift to make. For example, if you had a million dollars in the bank, would that make you feel safer? Would you worry less about your future with that kind of money in the bank? If you have a new car do you worry less about breaking down? If you have worked a long time for the same company do you feel less threatened by lay-offs? There’s nothing wrong with having money in the bank for the inevitable crises that will come; or a new car as opposed to an old one. The question I need to ask myself all the time is, “What is the source of my confidence? Is it God or my resources?” Jesus knew we would struggle with this so He said, “I want you to do just one thing. Seek God and His righteousness and I will take care of the rest.” He does it for the rest of nature He will do it for us too.
So, as we provide for our future by saving our money and try to make wise decisions regarding our future remember you are safe because God is your provider not because you have great wealth.
Pastor Don.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Something to think about.
"When you see a good man, think of emulating him; when you see a bad
man, examine your own heart."
man, examine your own heart."
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday July 12
They will declare, “The Lord is just! He is my rock! There is nothing but goodness in him!” (Psalm 92:15) The single most important thing that I can do is to get people to see God as the rock upon which they must stand. I say this is most important because only God is big enough for me to build my life on. I need the help and support of friends and family but they can never be “the rock” on which I stand because their resources are limited whereas God’s are infinite. With God as the rock beneath my feet I can withstand anything life throws at me. You see, a rock doesn’t change; therefore I know that God doesn’t change either. The above scripture says, “There is nothing but goodness in him!” And since God doesn’t change He is good ALL THE TIME; in the bad times and the good times. This is important to remember because many times what is happening in our lives is bad and it is hard to understand how God’s goodness can be present in that situation. But I must stand upon the “rock” of God’s unchanging love for me. Even though I can’t understand the situation I can understand that since God still loves me His hand is in here somewhere. Another thing about a rock is that it is a solid place upon which to stand. A rock won’t collapse under my weight because it can bear heavy loads. Sometimes life presents us with such challenging situations that we feel will crush us; the load is just too heavy to bear. But, since God is my rock I cannot sink, the ground under me will not give way. Since God is the rock beneath my feet no matter how heavy the load He will carry me through. I know many of you have huge challenges in your lives, so let me encourage you to stand firm upon the “rock” for He is sufficient for any and every situation.
Pastor Don.
They will declare, “The Lord is just! He is my rock! There is nothing but goodness in him!” (Psalm 92:15) The single most important thing that I can do is to get people to see God as the rock upon which they must stand. I say this is most important because only God is big enough for me to build my life on. I need the help and support of friends and family but they can never be “the rock” on which I stand because their resources are limited whereas God’s are infinite. With God as the rock beneath my feet I can withstand anything life throws at me. You see, a rock doesn’t change; therefore I know that God doesn’t change either. The above scripture says, “There is nothing but goodness in him!” And since God doesn’t change He is good ALL THE TIME; in the bad times and the good times. This is important to remember because many times what is happening in our lives is bad and it is hard to understand how God’s goodness can be present in that situation. But I must stand upon the “rock” of God’s unchanging love for me. Even though I can’t understand the situation I can understand that since God still loves me His hand is in here somewhere. Another thing about a rock is that it is a solid place upon which to stand. A rock won’t collapse under my weight because it can bear heavy loads. Sometimes life presents us with such challenging situations that we feel will crush us; the load is just too heavy to bear. But, since God is my rock I cannot sink, the ground under me will not give way. Since God is the rock beneath my feet no matter how heavy the load He will carry me through. I know many of you have huge challenges in your lives, so let me encourage you to stand firm upon the “rock” for He is sufficient for any and every situation.
Pastor Don.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Something to think about.
“The happiest people in life don’t necessarily have the best of everything. They just try to make the best of everything.” John Maxwell
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday July 5th
Everyone has a cross to carry.
Jesus says, “Take up your cross and follow me.” The word “cross” in this sentence is what usually gets our attention because of its ominous implications. Does it involve suffering? Or sacrifice? What exactly am I getting myself into here? I want to focus on the word “your” in that sentence. Why does Jesus say “your cross”? First, the word implies that everyone has a cross. There is no one out there who doesn’t have hardship and struggles in their life. “The grass is always greener on the other side” is an old, yet true saying. Other people’s lives look easy, but we’re forgetting that everyone has a cross to carry. If you’re asking God why your life is hard and their life is easy, He would probably tell us that “They have their cross to carry and you have yours, stop worrying about theirs and pick yours up and follow me.” Also, this word “your” reminds me that it is my personal cross. I believe that each one of us has a cross that is crafted by God especially for us; one that is specially tailored to shape us into the image of Jesus. So when I look at someone else’s life and think that their life is so much easier I am reminded that I probably couldn’t carry their cross and neither are they able to carry mine. So trust God that the cross you carry, though heavy at times, is one that you can carry. Remember too, if you follow Jesus you can’t leave your cross behind, it’s a part of who you are and it’s a part of being His disciple, so carry it in faith and carry it with joy.
Pastor Don.
Everyone has a cross to carry.
Jesus says, “Take up your cross and follow me.” The word “cross” in this sentence is what usually gets our attention because of its ominous implications. Does it involve suffering? Or sacrifice? What exactly am I getting myself into here? I want to focus on the word “your” in that sentence. Why does Jesus say “your cross”? First, the word implies that everyone has a cross. There is no one out there who doesn’t have hardship and struggles in their life. “The grass is always greener on the other side” is an old, yet true saying. Other people’s lives look easy, but we’re forgetting that everyone has a cross to carry. If you’re asking God why your life is hard and their life is easy, He would probably tell us that “They have their cross to carry and you have yours, stop worrying about theirs and pick yours up and follow me.” Also, this word “your” reminds me that it is my personal cross. I believe that each one of us has a cross that is crafted by God especially for us; one that is specially tailored to shape us into the image of Jesus. So when I look at someone else’s life and think that their life is so much easier I am reminded that I probably couldn’t carry their cross and neither are they able to carry mine. So trust God that the cross you carry, though heavy at times, is one that you can carry. Remember too, if you follow Jesus you can’t leave your cross behind, it’s a part of who you are and it’s a part of being His disciple, so carry it in faith and carry it with joy.
Pastor Don.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday 28
Imagine when this old house is made new!
As Ramona and I traveled around Ireland recently we visited a few old castles. As you walked through the old castles you got a real sense of history; one can just imagine all those who have walked these halls before you, and what it must have been like living in those days. But as interesting as they were, and how they triggered the imagination, right now they’re just relics of the past, telling a story of times gone by. These building invoke a sense of nostalgia and sadness but there is no hope of a future. There is no hope of restoration to the point that people will once again live in these building. They speak of the past not the future. As we walk through this world we are walking among the ruins of something that once was very beautiful. As we look around we see decay and brokenness, we see evidence of something lost way back in our history. But, unlike these old castles, there is hope of restoration. God tells us of a time in the future when He will restore all things, when He will make a new heaven and a new earth where righteousness dwells. This world is like a ruined castle but this world has a hope and a future and just imagine when God makes this old house new again! Just imagine when Jesus says to us, “Come you blessed of my father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” What a day that will be, come Lord Jesus!
Pastor Don.
Imagine when this old house is made new!
As Ramona and I traveled around Ireland recently we visited a few old castles. As you walked through the old castles you got a real sense of history; one can just imagine all those who have walked these halls before you, and what it must have been like living in those days. But as interesting as they were, and how they triggered the imagination, right now they’re just relics of the past, telling a story of times gone by. These building invoke a sense of nostalgia and sadness but there is no hope of a future. There is no hope of restoration to the point that people will once again live in these building. They speak of the past not the future. As we walk through this world we are walking among the ruins of something that once was very beautiful. As we look around we see decay and brokenness, we see evidence of something lost way back in our history. But, unlike these old castles, there is hope of restoration. God tells us of a time in the future when He will restore all things, when He will make a new heaven and a new earth where righteousness dwells. This world is like a ruined castle but this world has a hope and a future and just imagine when God makes this old house new again! Just imagine when Jesus says to us, “Come you blessed of my father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” What a day that will be, come Lord Jesus!
Pastor Don.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday June 21
Today in America, and about fifty other countries of the world, we celebrate Father’s Day. So I want to look at Psalm 103:13-14 which has a message particularly for fathers: “As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him. For he knows our frame; he remembers that we are dust.” God shows compassion on us his children for He knows our frame and He remembers that we are dust. He knows what we’re made of and our limitations. God does not excuse our sin because of our human weakness but He is patient with us because of it. He supplies power to us because He knows the weakness of our human nature and our brokenness due to sin. He is a compassionate father who deals with us according to our frailness and our weaknesses. By watching how God fathers His children we learn to be fathers. Therefore, we are to show compassion on our children as we remember their frame and that they too are dust. What that means is we must always remember their limitations and factor that in as we father our children. Also, we must remember that our primary job is to introduce them to their heavenly father. One other thought, fathers, remember your human father has limitations too. God is the only perfect father and so we need to be magnanimous in our attitude toward our own fathers. My father wounded me; I wounded my children and they will wound their children - why? Because we are all dust. So look to God and imitate His fatherhood and we will be better fathers. Have as great father’s day.
Pastor Don
Today in America, and about fifty other countries of the world, we celebrate Father’s Day. So I want to look at Psalm 103:13-14 which has a message particularly for fathers: “As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him. For he knows our frame; he remembers that we are dust.” God shows compassion on us his children for He knows our frame and He remembers that we are dust. He knows what we’re made of and our limitations. God does not excuse our sin because of our human weakness but He is patient with us because of it. He supplies power to us because He knows the weakness of our human nature and our brokenness due to sin. He is a compassionate father who deals with us according to our frailness and our weaknesses. By watching how God fathers His children we learn to be fathers. Therefore, we are to show compassion on our children as we remember their frame and that they too are dust. What that means is we must always remember their limitations and factor that in as we father our children. Also, we must remember that our primary job is to introduce them to their heavenly father. One other thought, fathers, remember your human father has limitations too. God is the only perfect father and so we need to be magnanimous in our attitude toward our own fathers. My father wounded me; I wounded my children and they will wound their children - why? Because we are all dust. So look to God and imitate His fatherhood and we will be better fathers. Have as great father’s day.
Pastor Don
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Something to think about.
A man who received a second chance at life said, “God shouldn’t have to give me something twice for me to be grateful for it once”. Don’t wait for something to be taken away before you appreciate its value.
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday 24th May
Freedom is never free!
On Monday, May 25, 2009 Americans across this nation and citizens located around the world will pause throughout the day to observe Memorial Day. Since its first official observation on 5 May, 1868, when it was called Declaration Day, it has been a day of remembrance for those who sacrificed and died in our nation’s service. And while it was originally dedicated to honor Civil War soldiers, we know it today as a celebration in memory of all who have fought for and defended our right to freedom. It is a day to honor and to respect those who fought to protect the liberties that our Founding Fathers proclaimed with certainty in the Declaration of Independence and that were thoughtfully and carefully framed in the Constitution of the United States. General Logan in his speech 1868, captures the attitude of this day with these words, “…cherish tenderly the memories of our heroic dead who made their breast a barricade between our country and its foes”. To those who died securing peace and freedom; to those who served in conflict to protect our land, and sacrificed their dreams of the day to preserve the hope of our nation keeping America the land of the free for over two centuries we owe our thanks and our honor. It is important to not only recognize their service but to respect their devotion to duty and to ensure that the purpose for which they fought will never be forgotten. Reflect on these words from the Star Spangled Banner:
Oh! thus be it ever, when freemen shall stand
Between their loved home and the war's desolation!
Blest with victory and peace, may the heav'n rescued land
Praise the Power that hath made and preserved us a nation.
Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,
And this be our motto: "In God is our trust."
Yes indeed, in God we trust.
Pastor Don.
Freedom is never free!
On Monday, May 25, 2009 Americans across this nation and citizens located around the world will pause throughout the day to observe Memorial Day. Since its first official observation on 5 May, 1868, when it was called Declaration Day, it has been a day of remembrance for those who sacrificed and died in our nation’s service. And while it was originally dedicated to honor Civil War soldiers, we know it today as a celebration in memory of all who have fought for and defended our right to freedom. It is a day to honor and to respect those who fought to protect the liberties that our Founding Fathers proclaimed with certainty in the Declaration of Independence and that were thoughtfully and carefully framed in the Constitution of the United States. General Logan in his speech 1868, captures the attitude of this day with these words, “…cherish tenderly the memories of our heroic dead who made their breast a barricade between our country and its foes”. To those who died securing peace and freedom; to those who served in conflict to protect our land, and sacrificed their dreams of the day to preserve the hope of our nation keeping America the land of the free for over two centuries we owe our thanks and our honor. It is important to not only recognize their service but to respect their devotion to duty and to ensure that the purpose for which they fought will never be forgotten. Reflect on these words from the Star Spangled Banner:
Oh! thus be it ever, when freemen shall stand
Between their loved home and the war's desolation!
Blest with victory and peace, may the heav'n rescued land
Praise the Power that hath made and preserved us a nation.
Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,
And this be our motto: "In God is our trust."
Yes indeed, in God we trust.
Pastor Don.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Something to think about.
“Don’t be led by your heart, rather, you must lead your heart” (Fireproof movie)
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday May 17th
Our best life is later not now!
Charles Spurgeon posted a sign on the door of his study that read: "Perhaps today." In this way Spurgeon reminded himself each time he entered his study that Jesus could return - even today! This then impacted the way he lived, prayed and preached - eagerly expecting the return of Jesus. Living with the certainty of Jesus’ return is a source of great encouragement to us when we are facing hard times. Consider these encouraging words, “So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.” (2Cor 4:16-18) When was the last time someone encouraged you to “hang in there” by reminding you of heaven? And yet, this seems to be the typical way the early Christians encouraged one another. If you are washed in the blood of the lamb(Rev 7:14) then this is your future: “Therefore they are before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple; and he who sits on the throne will shelter them with his presence. They shall hunger no more, neither thirst anymore; the sun shall not strike them, nor any scorching heat. For the Lamb in the midst of the throne will be their shepherd, and he will guide them to springs of living water, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.” (Rev. 7:15-17) So, hang in there, Jesus IS coming and when He does our best life will begin.
Pastor Don.
Our best life is later not now!
Charles Spurgeon posted a sign on the door of his study that read: "Perhaps today." In this way Spurgeon reminded himself each time he entered his study that Jesus could return - even today! This then impacted the way he lived, prayed and preached - eagerly expecting the return of Jesus. Living with the certainty of Jesus’ return is a source of great encouragement to us when we are facing hard times. Consider these encouraging words, “So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.” (2Cor 4:16-18) When was the last time someone encouraged you to “hang in there” by reminding you of heaven? And yet, this seems to be the typical way the early Christians encouraged one another. If you are washed in the blood of the lamb(Rev 7:14) then this is your future: “Therefore they are before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple; and he who sits on the throne will shelter them with his presence. They shall hunger no more, neither thirst anymore; the sun shall not strike them, nor any scorching heat. For the Lamb in the midst of the throne will be their shepherd, and he will guide them to springs of living water, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.” (Rev. 7:15-17) So, hang in there, Jesus IS coming and when He does our best life will begin.
Pastor Don.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Something to think about.
“Everything that annoys us about others can help us understand ourselves.”
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday May 10th
Mothers, we salute you!
I think it is becoming more and more important that we honor mothers. Why do I say this is important? Because, it used to be that being a mother was an honored position in our culture. Little girls used to grow up dreaming of the day when they would marry and have a family. However, in our day being a mother is no longer considered an honored estate. God created women to be mothers, not as punishment but as a blessing. Eve was called Eve because she would be the mother of all living not because she was the first woman or the wife of Adam, but because she was a mother! Being a mother is part of the redemptive process according to the apostle Paul (1Tim 2:15) Think of this, Mary, as the mother of God, would have a much closer bond with Jesus than Joseph would as the human father to Jesus. (Notice how I had to qualify Joseph’s fatherhood with the word “human”?) Mom, we still think you’re the best! Here are some tributes to moms:
"All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel Mother." -- Abraham Lincoln
"The heart of a mother is a deep abyss at the bottom of which you will always find forgiveness." -- Honore' de Balzac
"My mother was the most beautiful woman I ever saw. All I am I owe to my mother. I attribute all my success in life to the moral, intellectual and physical education I received from her." -- George Washington
"I remember my mother's prayers and they have always followed me. They have clung to me all my life." -- Abraham Lincoln
Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.” Prov. 31:28-29
Pastor Don
Mothers, we salute you!
I think it is becoming more and more important that we honor mothers. Why do I say this is important? Because, it used to be that being a mother was an honored position in our culture. Little girls used to grow up dreaming of the day when they would marry and have a family. However, in our day being a mother is no longer considered an honored estate. God created women to be mothers, not as punishment but as a blessing. Eve was called Eve because she would be the mother of all living not because she was the first woman or the wife of Adam, but because she was a mother! Being a mother is part of the redemptive process according to the apostle Paul (1Tim 2:15) Think of this, Mary, as the mother of God, would have a much closer bond with Jesus than Joseph would as the human father to Jesus. (Notice how I had to qualify Joseph’s fatherhood with the word “human”?) Mom, we still think you’re the best! Here are some tributes to moms:
"All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel Mother." -- Abraham Lincoln
"The heart of a mother is a deep abyss at the bottom of which you will always find forgiveness." -- Honore' de Balzac
"My mother was the most beautiful woman I ever saw. All I am I owe to my mother. I attribute all my success in life to the moral, intellectual and physical education I received from her." -- George Washington
"I remember my mother's prayers and they have always followed me. They have clung to me all my life." -- Abraham Lincoln
Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.” Prov. 31:28-29
Pastor Don
Friday, May 1, 2009
Something to think about.
“The measure of a truly great man is the courtesy with which he treats lesser men.”
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday May 3rd.
Are you in good hands?
“Do not be anxious about anything...”(Phil 4:6) Easier said than done, right? How do you remain calm when you wonder every day if today you will be laid off from work like thousands of others? How do you remain calm when you send your kids off to school with the swine flu going around? To be sure there are many things to cause us alarm. How does a Christian keep calm while everyone else is in a panic? Here’s how, we accept that ALL God’s dealings with us are good. We remember that God is sovereign over everything. Listen to these words from Deuteronomy, “There is none like God,... who rides through the heavens to your help, through the skies in his majesty. The eternal God is your dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms.” (Deut. 33:26-27) Whatever happens to you is from His hand, and since He is a good God everything that comes from His hand is good. When struggle and hard times come our way we know that He is not punishing us (those of us who are Christians) but He is using these events to purify His elect as gold is purified through fire. (1Peter 1:6-9) So be encouraged, you are upheld by the everlasting arms!
Pastor Don
Are you in good hands?
“Do not be anxious about anything...”(Phil 4:6) Easier said than done, right? How do you remain calm when you wonder every day if today you will be laid off from work like thousands of others? How do you remain calm when you send your kids off to school with the swine flu going around? To be sure there are many things to cause us alarm. How does a Christian keep calm while everyone else is in a panic? Here’s how, we accept that ALL God’s dealings with us are good. We remember that God is sovereign over everything. Listen to these words from Deuteronomy, “There is none like God,... who rides through the heavens to your help, through the skies in his majesty. The eternal God is your dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms.” (Deut. 33:26-27) Whatever happens to you is from His hand, and since He is a good God everything that comes from His hand is good. When struggle and hard times come our way we know that He is not punishing us (those of us who are Christians) but He is using these events to purify His elect as gold is purified through fire. (1Peter 1:6-9) So be encouraged, you are upheld by the everlasting arms!
Pastor Don
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Something to think about.
To help your children turn out well, spend twice as much time with them and half as much money. Mark Twain.
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday April 26th
Our churches are shrinking!
Here's a scary statistic, some say that 86 to 88% of our young people, the "twenty-something's", are leaving the church and never return! When these young people leave home to go to college or into the business sector they are unprepared for the secular world-view and the challenges to their faith and as a result, their faith is destroyed. The reason for this, according to the "experts", is due to wide spread biblical illiteracy. In other words, our young people are leaving the church because they have no doctrinal underpinning to their faith; no foundation to support them under the weight of a secular world-view. The Psalmist says, "How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word." (Psa. 119:9) In other words, God's word must be our sure foundation if we are to withstand the storms of life. However, my concern goes further than our young people. I believe that the vast majority of people who call themselves Christian today do not have a good biblical foundation. And if they are not solidly grounded in the word of God they too will be destroyed when "life" challenges their faith. When the storms of life blow against our house, we must know what we believe and why we believe it or our house will come crashing down! Daily reading of God's word and regularly sitting under the teaching of God's word is critical to the survival of the believer. Underpinning your faith with solid biblical truth is vital. Know what you believe and why you believe it. Don't be a part of the statistic mentioned above, be a part of those who turn that statistic around by building your life on the word of truth, the Holy scriptures.
Pastor Don.
Our churches are shrinking!
Here's a scary statistic, some say that 86 to 88% of our young people, the "twenty-something's", are leaving the church and never return! When these young people leave home to go to college or into the business sector they are unprepared for the secular world-view and the challenges to their faith and as a result, their faith is destroyed. The reason for this, according to the "experts", is due to wide spread biblical illiteracy. In other words, our young people are leaving the church because they have no doctrinal underpinning to their faith; no foundation to support them under the weight of a secular world-view. The Psalmist says, "How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word." (Psa. 119:9) In other words, God's word must be our sure foundation if we are to withstand the storms of life. However, my concern goes further than our young people. I believe that the vast majority of people who call themselves Christian today do not have a good biblical foundation. And if they are not solidly grounded in the word of God they too will be destroyed when "life" challenges their faith. When the storms of life blow against our house, we must know what we believe and why we believe it or our house will come crashing down! Daily reading of God's word and regularly sitting under the teaching of God's word is critical to the survival of the believer. Underpinning your faith with solid biblical truth is vital. Know what you believe and why you believe it. Don't be a part of the statistic mentioned above, be a part of those who turn that statistic around by building your life on the word of truth, the Holy scriptures.
Pastor Don.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Something to think about.
"A life spent making mistakes is not only more honorable but more useful
than a life spent doing nothing." -George Bernard Shaw-
than a life spent doing nothing." -George Bernard Shaw-
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday April 19th
What if Jesus came to your house?
If Jesus came to your house to spend a day or two,
If He came unexpectedly, I wonder what you'd do.
Oh I know you'd give your nicest room to such an honored guest,
and all the food you'd serve Him would be the very best.
But, when you saw Him coming, would you meet Him at the door
with arms outstretched in welcome to your heavenly visitor?
Or would you have to change your clothes before you let Him in,
or hide some magazines and put the Bible where they had been?
Would you turn off the radio and hope he hadn't heard?
And wish you hadn't uttered that last, loud, nasty word?
And I wonder - if the savior spent a day or two with you,
would you go right on doing the things you always do?
Would you keep right on saying the things you always say?
Would life for you continue as it does from day to day?
Would your family conversation keep up its usual pace?
And would you find it hard each meal to say a table grace?
Would you be glad to have Him stay forever on and on,
or would you sigh with great relief when He at last was gone?
It might be interesting to know the things we would do,
If Jesus came in person to spend some time with you.
Author unknown
What if Jesus came to your house?
If Jesus came to your house to spend a day or two,
If He came unexpectedly, I wonder what you'd do.
Oh I know you'd give your nicest room to such an honored guest,
and all the food you'd serve Him would be the very best.
But, when you saw Him coming, would you meet Him at the door
with arms outstretched in welcome to your heavenly visitor?
Or would you have to change your clothes before you let Him in,
or hide some magazines and put the Bible where they had been?
Would you turn off the radio and hope he hadn't heard?
And wish you hadn't uttered that last, loud, nasty word?
And I wonder - if the savior spent a day or two with you,
would you go right on doing the things you always do?
Would you keep right on saying the things you always say?
Would life for you continue as it does from day to day?
Would your family conversation keep up its usual pace?
And would you find it hard each meal to say a table grace?
Would you be glad to have Him stay forever on and on,
or would you sigh with great relief when He at last was gone?
It might be interesting to know the things we would do,
If Jesus came in person to spend some time with you.
Author unknown
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday April 12th
"My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" This is the cry of Jesus as He hung on the cross. This was a cry (scream) of greatest anguish and pain. I don't want to minimize the pain that Jesus suffered physically during this ordeal. He underwent a grueling interrogation, He was spat on, people stuck Him with their fists, He was ridiculed. All this between the hours of midnight and sunrise. And then when Jesus was exhausted and in the early stages of dehydration He is tried by Pilot and Herod culminating in Pilot having Him scourged and then crucified. We can only imagine the pain and suffering He bore that day, but the deepest suffering that transcended even this physical suffering is the pain and anguish expressed in this scream of Jesus. Until now Jesus had been silent before His accusers and tormentors but now He can be silent no more. Until now He could say, "I am not alone, my Father is with me." But now He is truly alone and here in this cry we hear the pain as the full force of God's wrath against sin is poured out on Jesus. THIS was the "cup" that Jesus was afraid of in His Gethsemane struggle. Though His physical pain was intense beyond our imagination it was nothing compared to the pain of becoming sin for us and being punished to the full extent of God's holy law for the sins that were placed upon Him. This is what John means when He says for "God SO loved the world". Not God loved the world so much but God's love is demonstrated in this way, i.e. that He would bear the agony of God's righteous holy wrath for sinners like you and me! God's love is shown in that He would bear such horror and anguish to reconcile us to God. There is no greater love than this. So this Easter Sunday worship the one who took your place on the cross at great personal suffering. Salvation is free for you but not for Him.
Pastor Don.
"My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" This is the cry of Jesus as He hung on the cross. This was a cry (scream) of greatest anguish and pain. I don't want to minimize the pain that Jesus suffered physically during this ordeal. He underwent a grueling interrogation, He was spat on, people stuck Him with their fists, He was ridiculed. All this between the hours of midnight and sunrise. And then when Jesus was exhausted and in the early stages of dehydration He is tried by Pilot and Herod culminating in Pilot having Him scourged and then crucified. We can only imagine the pain and suffering He bore that day, but the deepest suffering that transcended even this physical suffering is the pain and anguish expressed in this scream of Jesus. Until now Jesus had been silent before His accusers and tormentors but now He can be silent no more. Until now He could say, "I am not alone, my Father is with me." But now He is truly alone and here in this cry we hear the pain as the full force of God's wrath against sin is poured out on Jesus. THIS was the "cup" that Jesus was afraid of in His Gethsemane struggle. Though His physical pain was intense beyond our imagination it was nothing compared to the pain of becoming sin for us and being punished to the full extent of God's holy law for the sins that were placed upon Him. This is what John means when He says for "God SO loved the world". Not God loved the world so much but God's love is demonstrated in this way, i.e. that He would bear the agony of God's righteous holy wrath for sinners like you and me! God's love is shown in that He would bear such horror and anguish to reconcile us to God. There is no greater love than this. So this Easter Sunday worship the one who took your place on the cross at great personal suffering. Salvation is free for you but not for Him.
Pastor Don.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Something to think about.
If a church wants a better Pastor, it can get one by praying for the one they have.
Mark Twain.
Mark Twain.
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday April 5th
Who is running your control room?
Wayne Cordeiro in his book, "Attitudes that Attract Success" tells how on one occasion he was asked to speak at the chapel service at the local jail. He was met at the door by a voice that asked him to identify himself and his reason for being there and then the door was electronically unlocked and Wayne was guided by this voice down corridors and through doors and up an elevator to the chapel. After his message he asked one of the guards if he could visit the control room where his "faceless tour guide was housed". The control room was a small room fully enclosed with bulletproof glass and equipped with several television monitors. A few men were monitoring every doorway and every room and, at their discretion, they allowed people in or out by pushing a few buttons. Wayne then remarks that the thought struck him how dangerous it would be if the wrong person got control of this room. Our heart is the control room of our life. And we can all testify to the havoc that has be wreaked when the wrong person had control of our hearts. God constantly warns us to guard our hearts, in fact He tells us to turn our hearts over to His control. Do a heart check, who is in control of your heart?
Pastor Don
Who is running your control room?
Wayne Cordeiro in his book, "Attitudes that Attract Success" tells how on one occasion he was asked to speak at the chapel service at the local jail. He was met at the door by a voice that asked him to identify himself and his reason for being there and then the door was electronically unlocked and Wayne was guided by this voice down corridors and through doors and up an elevator to the chapel. After his message he asked one of the guards if he could visit the control room where his "faceless tour guide was housed". The control room was a small room fully enclosed with bulletproof glass and equipped with several television monitors. A few men were monitoring every doorway and every room and, at their discretion, they allowed people in or out by pushing a few buttons. Wayne then remarks that the thought struck him how dangerous it would be if the wrong person got control of this room. Our heart is the control room of our life. And we can all testify to the havoc that has be wreaked when the wrong person had control of our hearts. God constantly warns us to guard our hearts, in fact He tells us to turn our hearts over to His control. Do a heart check, who is in control of your heart?
Pastor Don
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Something to think about.
You can’t change the past, but you can ruin the present by worrying about the future.
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday March 29th.
God's timing is perfect.
In our bible study on Thursday nights we have been looking at the life of Joseph and every time I read his story I am encouraged and inspired to trust in God more completely. We're at that point in his life where he is in prison and two prominent men from Pharaoh's palace are placed in prison with him. While they are in prison they have dreams and Joseph tells them what their dreams mean. For the one man it means that he will be restored to his place as Pharaoh's butler. Joseph asks this man to remember him when he's once again serving Pharaoh. It's seems so clear, this man will go back to Pharaoh and tell him of Joseph and then Pharaoh will hear Joseph's case and finding him innocent will release him from prison. But the cupbearer forgets Joseph and Joseph stays in prison another two years! Joseph must have thought, "God, what's going on?!" But here's where we're reminded that God's timing is perfect. If Joseph had been released when the cupbearer returned to his position as Pharaoh's butler Joseph would never have been placed at the very highest position in Egypt. God put the cupbearer in prison so that Joseph could interpret his dream so that when Pharaoh had his dreams Joseph would be called and through interpreting Pharaoh's dreams he would be given the highest position in Egypt. And here's something else, Joseph's "salvation" came from a totally unexpected source and in a totally unexpected way! God's solutions to our situations are so unique and unexpected and it's exciting to wait upon God to see how He is going to bring glory to Himself through our situation. The key here is to wait for God's solution and not push for our solution. I don't know what struggles you are facing right now but I have confidence that God has an amazing solution, just be patient and WAIT for His solution is far superior to yours!
Pastor Don.
God's timing is perfect.
In our bible study on Thursday nights we have been looking at the life of Joseph and every time I read his story I am encouraged and inspired to trust in God more completely. We're at that point in his life where he is in prison and two prominent men from Pharaoh's palace are placed in prison with him. While they are in prison they have dreams and Joseph tells them what their dreams mean. For the one man it means that he will be restored to his place as Pharaoh's butler. Joseph asks this man to remember him when he's once again serving Pharaoh. It's seems so clear, this man will go back to Pharaoh and tell him of Joseph and then Pharaoh will hear Joseph's case and finding him innocent will release him from prison. But the cupbearer forgets Joseph and Joseph stays in prison another two years! Joseph must have thought, "God, what's going on?!" But here's where we're reminded that God's timing is perfect. If Joseph had been released when the cupbearer returned to his position as Pharaoh's butler Joseph would never have been placed at the very highest position in Egypt. God put the cupbearer in prison so that Joseph could interpret his dream so that when Pharaoh had his dreams Joseph would be called and through interpreting Pharaoh's dreams he would be given the highest position in Egypt. And here's something else, Joseph's "salvation" came from a totally unexpected source and in a totally unexpected way! God's solutions to our situations are so unique and unexpected and it's exciting to wait upon God to see how He is going to bring glory to Himself through our situation. The key here is to wait for God's solution and not push for our solution. I don't know what struggles you are facing right now but I have confidence that God has an amazing solution, just be patient and WAIT for His solution is far superior to yours!
Pastor Don.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Something to think about.
"He who thinks only of number one must remember this number is next to nothing."
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday March 22nd
Obedience brings trouble.
“Ever since I went to Pharaoh to speak in your name, he has brought trouble upon this people, and you have not rescued your people at all.” (Exodus 5:23 NIV) Moses is confused; God had sent him to tell Israel that God was going to deliver them from Egyptian bondage but all that has happened is more trouble has been brought against Israel. I’m sure you have experienced the same thing. We work hard at doing what it right; we try harder to do it God’s way instead of our way and all that seems to happen is we experience more problems. But, why does this surprise us? Is it because we view God as a “means to an end” instead of the “end” itself? What I mean is, we come to God so that he can fix our lives. With our obedience we’re actually trying to trade with Him – I’ll be good if your fix what’s wrong with me. However, we must obey God because of who He IS and not because of what He can do for me; we will still experience the attack of the devil but we will see this as being part and parcel of being with God. Since the devil is at war with God, when we surrender to God we will become the focus of his attack. However, now we see these troubles as proof that we’re doing something right instead of thinking that we’re doing something wrong.
Pastor Don
Obedience brings trouble.
“Ever since I went to Pharaoh to speak in your name, he has brought trouble upon this people, and you have not rescued your people at all.” (Exodus 5:23 NIV) Moses is confused; God had sent him to tell Israel that God was going to deliver them from Egyptian bondage but all that has happened is more trouble has been brought against Israel. I’m sure you have experienced the same thing. We work hard at doing what it right; we try harder to do it God’s way instead of our way and all that seems to happen is we experience more problems. But, why does this surprise us? Is it because we view God as a “means to an end” instead of the “end” itself? What I mean is, we come to God so that he can fix our lives. With our obedience we’re actually trying to trade with Him – I’ll be good if your fix what’s wrong with me. However, we must obey God because of who He IS and not because of what He can do for me; we will still experience the attack of the devil but we will see this as being part and parcel of being with God. Since the devil is at war with God, when we surrender to God we will become the focus of his attack. However, now we see these troubles as proof that we’re doing something right instead of thinking that we’re doing something wrong.
Pastor Don
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday March 15th
Can a Christian survive apart from a church?
There are many who are convinced that one can be a Christian without "going to church". How do you feel? Would you agree with them? Well, to be honest sometimes the thought has crossed my mind, I mean sometimes people are just hard to understand, sometimes people have expectations that are just impossible to meet. Relationships are hard work, there's no question about it. But, just as you were born into a family you didn't choose so too with God's family. However, back to our question: can a Christian survive apart from the church? The answer is no, and here's why. The church - that's the congregation of believers, not the building with the steeple - is the mechanism (if I may use that word) by which God strips away my selfishness, my pride, my independence, well, He strips "me" away. You see God won't let me get any closer to Him if I won't get close to my Christian brothers and sisters. Husbands if you mistreat your wives then God won't hear your prayers. Christian, if you won't forgive your brother or sister then God won't accept our worship of Him. Our relationship with God is tied to our relationship with one another. Another reason why church is important is because at church you come under the preaching of God's word and it is through His word that God shapes you into the image of Jesus. It is through the preaching of His word that He speaks truth into our lives and without truth we would be like ships tossed about on the ocean, no direction and no anchor for the soul. A third reason why we can't survive without the church is because in the church we come under the authority of the church leadership. Now I can hear you running for the door but this is perhaps the most important reason why God calls us into community. We are like sheep, we're always going astray and we NEED God's leaders to lead us and, when necessary, correct us and as shepherds bring us back to the safety of the fold. Since our relationship with God is tied to our relationship with one another, then just as you cannot survive without God so too you cannot survive with the church.
Pastor Don
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Something to think about.
You have made us for Yourself, and therefore our hearts are restless until we find our rest in Thee. (Augustine)
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday March 8th
Church is a community thing.
What does the church mean to you? Why do you go to church? What do you like about church? Is the church an indispensable part of your life? The answers to these questions are relevant because I think many go to church out of "me" centered reasons. Without realizing it church can become just another place where it's all about me. We live in a culture that exalts the individual. This is seen clearly in our entertainment, education, economics, domestic patterns and religion which are all geared toward the idolatry of self. Phrases are frequently heard like, "celebrate yourself", "you must first love yourself"; "you deserve to spoil yourself", and relationships are often jettisoned in order to go off and "find ourselves". Without realizing it we believe that it's all about me and so we go to church IF I need it. And if "church" doesn't "pump me up" then I feel like I wasted my time and if it happens often enough I start looking for another church where my needs will be met. However, Jesus brings us into a community that scripture describes as a "body" - each part serving the rest of the body. Jesus places us in a community where you must die to self and deny yourself. The church is where we as individuals learn to love others; we learn to put others first; we love them because Jesus loves them. Another important function of the church is that in the church we are held accountable. If the church is truly living as a community it's not a place where you can hide but where the Holy Spirit will challenge you and convict you through that brother or sister that comes alongside you and encourages you and, if necessary, gently but firmly challenges you. Our narcissistic culture is slowly killing us but God will bring real life through this community we call church (if you stick around) - He will take your eyes off yourself and focus them on others and that is a very healthy thing.
Pastor Don.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Something to think about.
God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in him. (John Piper)
Pastor’s Corner
for Sunday March 1st
Is there shame in the truth?
If you watched the Oscars you would have heard Sean Penn's comment upon receiving the best actor award in the movie "Milk". His comment was, "I think it's a good time for those who voted for the ban against gay marriage to sit and reflect on their great shame and their shame in their grandchildren's eyes if they continue that support. We've got to have equal rights for everyone." and there was an eruption of applause. There is much in this statement that needs a reply but space only allows me to respond to his comment that those who voted against same sex marriage should feel great shame. What should be our Christian response? As Christians we believe that the bible is God's word to us. This is important because when we take a stand on the clear teaching of God's word we believe that we are standing on moral ground defined by God not defined by man. God's word is clear in its stance against the homosexual lifestyle and there is no shame in standing where God stands on a moral issue. Yes, we should be ashamed if our attitude toward those who are "gay" has been unkind and harsh. We should be ashamed if we have not shown compassion and love toward them and extended to them every courtesy we would anyone else. However, love compels us to speak to them about God's view of their lifestyle. It isn't loving to allow someone to remain in a state of sin and therefore under the judgment of God. So with all the sensitivity and compassion we can muster we must speak to those caught in the gay lifestyle about the grace of God and forgiveness He will extend to them if they would repent. There is no shame in that, but shame on you if you don't.
Pastor Don
12-year-old speaks out on the issue of abortion
I came across this amazing youtube video on the subject of abortion. It is well worth watching, it's only 5 minutes long. Check it out here.
Pastor Don
Friday, February 20, 2009
Making Abstinence Realistic
Bristol Palin, the 18-year-old daughter of Alaska Governor Sarah Palin was interviewed by Fox News concerning her status as an unwed teenage mom. Bristol made the statement in the interview that teenagers should not have sex. However, she also said that sexual abstinence for teens is "not realistic at all." Albert Mohler wrote an interesting article on this, in which he makes the excellent point that abstinence is unrealistic given the "hooking up" scene of teenage culture. Al Mohler goes on to say that we must make it realistic by responsible parenting in which we place parameters in our teenagers life that would make having sex unlikely. Read his article here or listen here.
Pastor Don
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Pastor's Corner
for Sunday Feb 22nd
Is preaching the gospel intolerant?
The General Synod of the Church of England is to discuss a motion calling on it to recognize explicitly its aim of converting people to Christianity. The motion calls for bishops to give extra training and encouragement to clergy to evangelize non-Christians. What?! Why would any church be debating whether to preach the gospel or not? Why in the world would it be necessary to ask bishops to train clergy for evangelism? Is it not a given that we need to preach the gospel? Now we may be afraid to preach the gospel but surely we all know that Christ has commanded us to preach the gospel with the explicit goal of converting people to Jesus Christ. So why are some churches questioning this mandate? Well, unfortunately, there are many who believe that to convert people to Christ implies that our religion is better than theirs, and this is intolerant. These people believe that preaching the gospel will damage our relationship with other religions - Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, etc. Now nobody wants to be accused of being intolerant, but the reason we preach the gospel is because we believe that since Jesus has born the punishment for our sins He is the ONLY one through whom we can be saved. And since we also believe that all those who die without the forgiveness of their sins in Jesus will go to everlasting punishment, it is imperative that we preach the message of salvation to ALL (that includes Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, Mormons, etc) those who are lost. Jesus warned us that the gospel would be offensive; He warned that since they hated Him they will hate us too; He warned that if they called Him a devil they would call us devils too. We don't want to be offensive in preaching the gospel but we must not remove the offense of the gospel, which is salvation through Jesus alone. We don't need to debate this, we simply need to do it - with sensitivity; with love and compassion but also with clarity - preach the gospel.
Pastor Don.
Is preaching the gospel intolerant?
The General Synod of the Church of England is to discuss a motion calling on it to recognize explicitly its aim of converting people to Christianity. The motion calls for bishops to give extra training and encouragement to clergy to evangelize non-Christians. What?! Why would any church be debating whether to preach the gospel or not? Why in the world would it be necessary to ask bishops to train clergy for evangelism? Is it not a given that we need to preach the gospel? Now we may be afraid to preach the gospel but surely we all know that Christ has commanded us to preach the gospel with the explicit goal of converting people to Jesus Christ. So why are some churches questioning this mandate? Well, unfortunately, there are many who believe that to convert people to Christ implies that our religion is better than theirs, and this is intolerant. These people believe that preaching the gospel will damage our relationship with other religions - Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, etc. Now nobody wants to be accused of being intolerant, but the reason we preach the gospel is because we believe that since Jesus has born the punishment for our sins He is the ONLY one through whom we can be saved. And since we also believe that all those who die without the forgiveness of their sins in Jesus will go to everlasting punishment, it is imperative that we preach the message of salvation to ALL (that includes Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, Mormons, etc) those who are lost. Jesus warned us that the gospel would be offensive; He warned that since they hated Him they will hate us too; He warned that if they called Him a devil they would call us devils too. We don't want to be offensive in preaching the gospel but we must not remove the offense of the gospel, which is salvation through Jesus alone. We don't need to debate this, we simply need to do it - with sensitivity; with love and compassion but also with clarity - preach the gospel.
Pastor Don.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Responsibility
Now there’s a big word! But we can only get our lives around it as we tackle it ‘bit by bit’ as they say. I don’t roll over one morning and say suddenly “I’m a responsible person”. No, it is a proven commodity along an often drudgery laden landscape of little choices effecting a far more vast universe than what we are aware of at the moment. What does it matter we say, 100 years from now, no one will know. I wonder if Adam and Eve ever had that thought? That thousands of years later their lives would stand such scrutiny. What chagrin, what horror. It was just a bite! But a huge glitch occurred in a moment of seemingly insignificant irresponsibility.
We run from responsibility because we lust after things that cause us to be irresponsible. We want our cake, and to eat it too! We love the lap of luxury, we embrace hollow things in our pride of life. Our insane grasp for fame and fortune, to be like God’s leave us standing at a very selfish pinnacle where we never like to be caught. After all, in the cool of the evening, when responsibility came calling via the voice and presence of God, Adam and Eve pointed their fingers at each other to assign blame anywhere but on themselves. We have mimicked their saga with deft skill and the accomplishment of time practiced methods. Perfecting the skill of passing the buck, the blame, the shame to anyone but ourselves.
But no matter how deft we become, there is one inescapable judge of character and motive, who sees beyond our excuses, our stories, our lies. Who looks into our very souls and declares with a reckoning that cannot be denied that we are guilty. You, me, responsible! What can we say then? We are made to own our stuff, we will. But alas, there is a nobler way. It’s Jesus Christ. The all responsible, never wavering Savior who took our moments of irresponsible behavior upon himself that we could be set free to follow His example of true responsibility. Of laying down our lives for one another. Did you ever stop to think about who you might have to lay your life down for tomorrow, and how you might have treated them differently today. Or how about that someone who might just have to lay down their life for you tomorrow, how are you treating them today. How well do we ever really know each other and what we are capable of? This I do know, scripture teaches us that we are responsible for one another. And I am convinced we will never be bigger than what that rite of passage earns us. God knows you, He really knows you! He is holding you responsible, and how many times are we leaving Him holding the bag?
Determine today to do what you should do. To choose the right next step. To act the right way, to speak the right words. To be responsible. Jesus told us that we would have to prove ourselves in the little things first. Because that is the way responsibility is developed. He understands our inherent weakness, muscular dystrophy of the soul. And that without daily exercise, our will atrophies, and responsibility slips, as does our grasp on life. God help us to exercise the gifts He has endowed us with. To be responsible, to own this word. To be what we were created to be. Creatures who choose responsibly, who choose with that responsibility God! Blessings. Pastor Doyle
We run from responsibility because we lust after things that cause us to be irresponsible. We want our cake, and to eat it too! We love the lap of luxury, we embrace hollow things in our pride of life. Our insane grasp for fame and fortune, to be like God’s leave us standing at a very selfish pinnacle where we never like to be caught. After all, in the cool of the evening, when responsibility came calling via the voice and presence of God, Adam and Eve pointed their fingers at each other to assign blame anywhere but on themselves. We have mimicked their saga with deft skill and the accomplishment of time practiced methods. Perfecting the skill of passing the buck, the blame, the shame to anyone but ourselves.
But no matter how deft we become, there is one inescapable judge of character and motive, who sees beyond our excuses, our stories, our lies. Who looks into our very souls and declares with a reckoning that cannot be denied that we are guilty. You, me, responsible! What can we say then? We are made to own our stuff, we will. But alas, there is a nobler way. It’s Jesus Christ. The all responsible, never wavering Savior who took our moments of irresponsible behavior upon himself that we could be set free to follow His example of true responsibility. Of laying down our lives for one another. Did you ever stop to think about who you might have to lay your life down for tomorrow, and how you might have treated them differently today. Or how about that someone who might just have to lay down their life for you tomorrow, how are you treating them today. How well do we ever really know each other and what we are capable of? This I do know, scripture teaches us that we are responsible for one another. And I am convinced we will never be bigger than what that rite of passage earns us. God knows you, He really knows you! He is holding you responsible, and how many times are we leaving Him holding the bag?
Determine today to do what you should do. To choose the right next step. To act the right way, to speak the right words. To be responsible. Jesus told us that we would have to prove ourselves in the little things first. Because that is the way responsibility is developed. He understands our inherent weakness, muscular dystrophy of the soul. And that without daily exercise, our will atrophies, and responsibility slips, as does our grasp on life. God help us to exercise the gifts He has endowed us with. To be responsible, to own this word. To be what we were created to be. Creatures who choose responsibly, who choose with that responsibility God! Blessings. Pastor Doyle
Pastor’s Corner
for Sunday Feb 15th
Will you lay your Isaac down?
After these things God tested Abraham and said to him, "Abraham!" And he said, "Here am I. He said, "Take your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you." (Gen. 22:1-2) What was Abraham's test? God was testing his faith - how far will you trust me. God was testing his obedience - how far will you go in your obedience? God was testing his love - is there anything you love more than me. Abraham had been walking with God for many years and had been tested many times over the years (some of which he failed) and had come to know God as a trustworthy friend; as a holy and righteous God; as a merciful and loving God. This test wasn't made in a vacuum but was built upon Abraham's relationship with God. God will also test us and though our test will be different depending on how far we have grown in our relationship with God, I think that we are all tested with regard to the same questions that Abraham was - how much do you trust God? Is there a limit to your obedience? Is there anything more precious to you than God? So what, or who, is your Isaac and are you prepared to lay him down for God? Tough questions but ones we must answer if our relationship with God is to go deeper.
Pastor Don.
Will you lay your Isaac down?
After these things God tested Abraham and said to him, "Abraham!" And he said, "Here am I. He said, "Take your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you." (Gen. 22:1-2) What was Abraham's test? God was testing his faith - how far will you trust me. God was testing his obedience - how far will you go in your obedience? God was testing his love - is there anything you love more than me. Abraham had been walking with God for many years and had been tested many times over the years (some of which he failed) and had come to know God as a trustworthy friend; as a holy and righteous God; as a merciful and loving God. This test wasn't made in a vacuum but was built upon Abraham's relationship with God. God will also test us and though our test will be different depending on how far we have grown in our relationship with God, I think that we are all tested with regard to the same questions that Abraham was - how much do you trust God? Is there a limit to your obedience? Is there anything more precious to you than God? So what, or who, is your Isaac and are you prepared to lay him down for God? Tough questions but ones we must answer if our relationship with God is to go deeper.
Pastor Don.
Something to Think About
"Wounds from a friend are better than many kisses from an enemy." (Prov. 27:6)
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
The Shack - book reviews
Ramona and I just got back from a short visit to some friends in Texas and spent a few hours in airports as a result. To kill some time in these airports we walked around browsing the shops and book stores. In every book store we went into "The shack" was prominently displayed. All the Christian book stores have it "front and center" as well. If you haven't read it someone will soon recommend that you do and even if you have read it I would recommend that you to read these book reviews here
Be an informed and discerning reader.
Pastor Don.
Be an informed and discerning reader.
Pastor Don.
Pastor’s Corner.
for Sunday Feb 1st
Crushed by God!
Here’s a devotional by Oswald Chambers, which I found particularly relevant to some things going on in my life right now. I hope it speaks to you as it did to me. Pastor Don
"God can never make me wine if I object to the fingers he uses to crush me. If God would only crush me with his own fingers, and say, 'Now, my son, I am going to make you broken bread and poured out wine in a particular way, and everyone will know what I am doing.' But when he uses someone who is not a Christian, or someone I particularly dislike, or some set of circumstances which I said I would never submit to, and begins to make these the crushers, I object. I must never choose the scene of my own martyrdom, nor must I choose the things God will use in order to make me broken bread and poured-out wine. His own Son did not choose. God chose for his Son that he should have a devil in his company for three years. We say, 'I want angels; I want people better than myself; I want everything to be significantly from God; otherwise I cannot live the life, or do the thing properly; I always want to be gilt-edged.' Let God do as he likes. If you are ever going to be wine to drink, you must be crushed. Grapes cannot be drunk; grapes are only wine when they have been crushed. I wonder what kind of coarse finger and thumb God has been using to squeeze you, and you have been like a marble and escaped? You are not ripe yet, and if God had squeezed you, the wine that came out would have been remarkably bitter. Let God go on with his crushing, because it will work his purpose in the end." (Oswald Chambers, So Send I You)
Crushed by God!
Here’s a devotional by Oswald Chambers, which I found particularly relevant to some things going on in my life right now. I hope it speaks to you as it did to me. Pastor Don
"God can never make me wine if I object to the fingers he uses to crush me. If God would only crush me with his own fingers, and say, 'Now, my son, I am going to make you broken bread and poured out wine in a particular way, and everyone will know what I am doing.' But when he uses someone who is not a Christian, or someone I particularly dislike, or some set of circumstances which I said I would never submit to, and begins to make these the crushers, I object. I must never choose the scene of my own martyrdom, nor must I choose the things God will use in order to make me broken bread and poured-out wine. His own Son did not choose. God chose for his Son that he should have a devil in his company for three years. We say, 'I want angels; I want people better than myself; I want everything to be significantly from God; otherwise I cannot live the life, or do the thing properly; I always want to be gilt-edged.' Let God do as he likes. If you are ever going to be wine to drink, you must be crushed. Grapes cannot be drunk; grapes are only wine when they have been crushed. I wonder what kind of coarse finger and thumb God has been using to squeeze you, and you have been like a marble and escaped? You are not ripe yet, and if God had squeezed you, the wine that came out would have been remarkably bitter. Let God go on with his crushing, because it will work his purpose in the end." (Oswald Chambers, So Send I You)
Monday, January 26, 2009
Communication
George Bernard Shaw once wrote, “The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.” There is so much truth to this. It happens all too frequently in our disposition toward our communication with God. We give Him so little time and think that our infrequent, and often short, me-centered prayers are communicating and hearing the heart of God. I don’t want to discourage the communication you are currently employing in your life and devotion to Him, but I feel compelled to remind us that often our short one-way monologue’s short change us in getting to hear God speak back to us.
I must confess I am not certain I always want to hear what God has to say to me, it often conflicts with what I want to hear. But therein lies the crux of the whole matter. Communication is now broken down between the Lord of the Universe and myself, and it is my fault. God is not in a hurry like us, He is not despairing over time, He rules time remember? We need to slow down to hear the voice of God speaking, we need to slow down and contemplate His word. I wonder often when people tell me that they cannot understand scripture, if they’re really reading with a ready, open heart.
Lord help me today to steady myself in my conquest to be heard by you, to realize again it is much more important for me to hear you. Let my heart entertain dialogue, two-way communication, where real communication happens. The most important communication there is. For I know that if I can hear your voice, I will also be able to better communicate with those around me! Let me not take this for granted, you will not break the heavens open to stir me, you will not yell, you will not push yourself upon me. I must listen for that still small voice, after the wind, and the rain, and the fire, in the silence of the quiet of my soul, there I will hear you, and there I will gain wisdom, and wholeness, and wealth not found in this world’s riches!
Communicate with God today. Let Him know you want to hear His voice, and that you cannot live without it. And mean it! Blessings! Pastor Doyle
I must confess I am not certain I always want to hear what God has to say to me, it often conflicts with what I want to hear. But therein lies the crux of the whole matter. Communication is now broken down between the Lord of the Universe and myself, and it is my fault. God is not in a hurry like us, He is not despairing over time, He rules time remember? We need to slow down to hear the voice of God speaking, we need to slow down and contemplate His word. I wonder often when people tell me that they cannot understand scripture, if they’re really reading with a ready, open heart.
Lord help me today to steady myself in my conquest to be heard by you, to realize again it is much more important for me to hear you. Let my heart entertain dialogue, two-way communication, where real communication happens. The most important communication there is. For I know that if I can hear your voice, I will also be able to better communicate with those around me! Let me not take this for granted, you will not break the heavens open to stir me, you will not yell, you will not push yourself upon me. I must listen for that still small voice, after the wind, and the rain, and the fire, in the silence of the quiet of my soul, there I will hear you, and there I will gain wisdom, and wholeness, and wealth not found in this world’s riches!
Communicate with God today. Let Him know you want to hear His voice, and that you cannot live without it. And mean it! Blessings! Pastor Doyle
Pastor’s Corner.
From Sunday 25th Jan 2009 bulletin
Our 44th President - an African American!
This presidency is historically significant on so many levels. The election of Barack Obama to the presidency is evidence that democracy works; that the people of America really believe in the democratic process and that they are willing to accept the voice of the people. Contrast this election with those that have taken place recently in other countries. These other elections (such as in Kenya and Zimbabwe) were corrupt and extremely violent. This is what is so profound about this election - George W. Bush voluntarily vacates his power as president to the duly elected president Barack Obama. Add to this that there is a change of political parties - Democratic taking over from Republican! And all this taking place peacefully! A testimony to the character of the American people. We are witnesses to and participants in a truly historic event! Having said that let me add some words of caution: those who have great expectations of Obama for change remember he is only a man and because he is a man he will let you down. Put your hope in God. God is the only source of real and lasting change - in people and in nations. And God is the only source of true equality between people. To those who may be anxious over this election - God is our refuge and our fortress. God has promised to never leave us or forsake us so we can confidently say, "The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?" (Heb. 13:6) Our future is in the hands of a sovereign God who is rich in mercy and who is working all things together for His glory. These are indeed exciting times, but remember to "render to Caesar what is Caesar's and render to God what is God's".
Pastor Don
Our 44th President - an African American!
This presidency is historically significant on so many levels. The election of Barack Obama to the presidency is evidence that democracy works; that the people of America really believe in the democratic process and that they are willing to accept the voice of the people. Contrast this election with those that have taken place recently in other countries. These other elections (such as in Kenya and Zimbabwe) were corrupt and extremely violent. This is what is so profound about this election - George W. Bush voluntarily vacates his power as president to the duly elected president Barack Obama. Add to this that there is a change of political parties - Democratic taking over from Republican! And all this taking place peacefully! A testimony to the character of the American people. We are witnesses to and participants in a truly historic event! Having said that let me add some words of caution: those who have great expectations of Obama for change remember he is only a man and because he is a man he will let you down. Put your hope in God. God is the only source of real and lasting change - in people and in nations. And God is the only source of true equality between people. To those who may be anxious over this election - God is our refuge and our fortress. God has promised to never leave us or forsake us so we can confidently say, "The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?" (Heb. 13:6) Our future is in the hands of a sovereign God who is rich in mercy and who is working all things together for His glory. These are indeed exciting times, but remember to "render to Caesar what is Caesar's and render to God what is God's".
Pastor Don
Monday, January 19, 2009
Pastors Corner
Sunday Jan 18th 2009
Herod, a man of deep faith(?).
As we move into the new year I would like to make one final reference to the Christmas story. One of the notable villains of the Christmas story is King Herod. This wicked king, in an effort to kill the baby who was born King of the Jews, killed all baby boys under the age of two in the Bethlehem area. King Herod is definitely NOT a hero of the Bible, but he did have a deep faith in the Bible. We know this because when Herod learned from the magi that they were looking for the “one who was born King of the Jews”, he didn’t dismiss it as a myth but consulted the chief priests and scribes and inquired of them where the Christ would be born. He believed the prophecy. He believed that the Messiah would be a literal person, who would be king of the Jews. Herod's conviction of the truthfulness of the prophecy was so deep that he took terrible and violent action to remove this threat to his throne. Herod's faith however, was fundamentally the same as Satan's faith. James tells us that even the demons believe and tremble! (James 2:19). In spite of his deep conviction in the facts concerning the true King of the Jews, one thing Herod would not do was bow before this king, in fact, he was determined to destroy this king. My point in focusing on Herod's faith is to point out that faith will not save us unless and until we, in faith, repent of our sins and surrender to the King of Kings, Jesus the Christ. You must do more than believe in the Christ you must bow before him to be saved. The magi came to worship the king; Herod wanted to destroy the king. Where do you stand?
Pastor Don
Herod, a man of deep faith(?).
As we move into the new year I would like to make one final reference to the Christmas story. One of the notable villains of the Christmas story is King Herod. This wicked king, in an effort to kill the baby who was born King of the Jews, killed all baby boys under the age of two in the Bethlehem area. King Herod is definitely NOT a hero of the Bible, but he did have a deep faith in the Bible. We know this because when Herod learned from the magi that they were looking for the “one who was born King of the Jews”, he didn’t dismiss it as a myth but consulted the chief priests and scribes and inquired of them where the Christ would be born. He believed the prophecy. He believed that the Messiah would be a literal person, who would be king of the Jews. Herod's conviction of the truthfulness of the prophecy was so deep that he took terrible and violent action to remove this threat to his throne. Herod's faith however, was fundamentally the same as Satan's faith. James tells us that even the demons believe and tremble! (James 2:19). In spite of his deep conviction in the facts concerning the true King of the Jews, one thing Herod would not do was bow before this king, in fact, he was determined to destroy this king. My point in focusing on Herod's faith is to point out that faith will not save us unless and until we, in faith, repent of our sins and surrender to the King of Kings, Jesus the Christ. You must do more than believe in the Christ you must bow before him to be saved. The magi came to worship the king; Herod wanted to destroy the king. Where do you stand?
Pastor Don
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Bridges
This Sunday's message was from John 14:1-14 and focused on vs. 6 where Jesus answered his disciple regarding there question about where heaven is and how to get there. He gave this distinctive answer; "I am the way, and the truth and the life." We talked about Jesus being the "Bridge to somewhere". So many paths people are taking today are mock bridges built by the enemy of our souls, designed to lead us to nowhere, paths of destruction, bridges of failure, false hope, and fake dreams. Jesus invites us to his bridge of life, where we were destined and created to travel. A bridge to somewhere in particular, and that particular is heaven. No dashed hopes or false endings. A real place, with a real God, and a real celebration. As we start the new year, the choices we make this year do have an impact, and I challenged everyone to put Christ at the center of their decision making process. To make sure they get on the bridge Jesus himself constructed when He came to earth, born a baby and died a savior constructing a sure and steadfast bridge for all who choose to cross it a safe and sufficient pathway for this journey called life. Make sure you are on that bridge today, there are a lot of false bridges and we are easily deceived. Let us be informed, to see clearly through the lenses of truth, the way of God, so that we can truly have a life! The life God intended for us to have. A life of joy, and contentedness, a life anchored in eternity's great hope. Live free this week, live well, walk the bridge of Jesus today. Blessings always. Pastor Doyle
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Praying for the President.
As we approach the inauguration of president elect Barack Obama and with the controversy over Pastor Rick Warren being asked to deliver the invocation at the ceremony, I think that it would be timely for us to be thinking about how do we pray for the president? God instructs us to pray for our leaders but how do we do that?
This is a prayer by Dr. John Frame:
"We pray to you our creator, the mighty king of kings and lord of lords, who governs all things that come to pass and rules over all the nations. You raise up rulers and cast them down at your own pleasure, in the pursuit of your just and merciful purposes. We thank you for the freedom we have to worship you, sought by the founders of this nation, freedom you have given to us through the righteous laws of this land. So we call on you to be with us again during this new era. Be with our new president and all the leaders of this country, that they may be willing to hear the wisdom of your word and thus may image your justice, mercy, and integrity in their public life. As the one who remains constant throughout history, and yet who ordains change from each moment to the next, move our leaders to know how to maintain the foundations of our nation, while changing to meet the demands of new situations. Be our rock, when so much is changing in our lives. We pray for those families whose loved ones have died in defense of our country, and we pray for the young men and women who continue to fight our battles, that they may be victorious, and that their efforts may bring about the fruit of peace. We pray for those who have experienced terrible losses through the changes in the economy, and we pray that the leaders of this nation may seek out the wisest ways of responding. Above all, pour out on this nation your Holy Spirit, that there will be revival in our land, that the hearts of many will be moved to seek you, and that they may find that new life you offer us of love, joy, and peace.
This we pray in the name of Jesus Christ,
AMEN"
This is a prayer that I think would be an excellent prayer for us to pray for our new president and for our country.
Pastor Don
This is a prayer by Dr. John Frame:
"We pray to you our creator, the mighty king of kings and lord of lords, who governs all things that come to pass and rules over all the nations. You raise up rulers and cast them down at your own pleasure, in the pursuit of your just and merciful purposes. We thank you for the freedom we have to worship you, sought by the founders of this nation, freedom you have given to us through the righteous laws of this land. So we call on you to be with us again during this new era. Be with our new president and all the leaders of this country, that they may be willing to hear the wisdom of your word and thus may image your justice, mercy, and integrity in their public life. As the one who remains constant throughout history, and yet who ordains change from each moment to the next, move our leaders to know how to maintain the foundations of our nation, while changing to meet the demands of new situations. Be our rock, when so much is changing in our lives. We pray for those families whose loved ones have died in defense of our country, and we pray for the young men and women who continue to fight our battles, that they may be victorious, and that their efforts may bring about the fruit of peace. We pray for those who have experienced terrible losses through the changes in the economy, and we pray that the leaders of this nation may seek out the wisest ways of responding. Above all, pour out on this nation your Holy Spirit, that there will be revival in our land, that the hearts of many will be moved to seek you, and that they may find that new life you offer us of love, joy, and peace.
This we pray in the name of Jesus Christ,
AMEN"
This is a prayer that I think would be an excellent prayer for us to pray for our new president and for our country.
Pastor Don
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Scripture
I thought I might add a little early reminder to your New Year resolutions. We have clearly and often reminded you of the need for reading the Bible. As you commence the New Year, it is a great time to restart a broken trend that often occurs. You guessed it, we stop reading God's word. I reminded the congregation this past Sunday morning that "dusty Bible's lead to dirty lives." Howard Hendricks has it right. Someone once wrote in the flyleaf of his Bible soon after he became a Christian these words: "This book will keep you from sin, or sin will keep you from this book." These words are altogether true. The lack of scripture in our lives will bankrupt our spirituality more quickly than people understand. I don't desire the fall of anyone, but the enemy of our souls cares for no one, except that we fail. The Bible is God inspired, read it and live, neglect it and you will fail! Some of the reading may be difficult, but read it anyway, God's spirit will reveal understanding in due time if you press on. However, there will never be a day that you will read this book and regret it, it carries boldly the words of life, love, and hope. It directs you away from the dark places of danger and into the pathway of light. Go ahead, pick it up and read, your destiny awaits you in it's pages. You will be blessed! Pastor Doyle
I Timothy 3:16-17 "All scripture is God-breathed and in useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."
Pastor's Corner 12/28/08
A thrill of hope, a weary world rejoices.
As we pack away the Christmas stuff and throw out the paper wrappings from Christmas it’s easy to pack “Christmas” away too. We quickly return to “business as usual” and we forget the baby born in a manger; we forget the wonder of this most profound event. Our attitude of worship is far too quickly eclipsed by the pressures of daily living. Christmas marks the greatest miracle of all time – the miracle of God in human flesh. Does this amaze you? Are you compelled to ask the question “Why?”? Why did God become flesh? Why would He enter this world the way everyone else enters this world – as a baby!? The answer to these questions is found in one three letter word – SIN. In fact, one could say that SIN is the reason for the season. Our sin separated us from God and Jesus came to reconcile us to God. Listen to these words from “Oh Holy Night”:
Long lay the world in sin and error pining
'Til He appeared and the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope, a weary world rejoices
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees
Oh, hear the angel voices.
Oh, night divine,
Oh, night when Christ was born!
Only in Jesus does our soul find its true worth. The thrill of hope! A weary world rejoices! Because of Jesus we have worth, we have hope and we have joy! So go ahead, put your Christmas stuff away but don’t forget Christmas. Pastor Don
As we pack away the Christmas stuff and throw out the paper wrappings from Christmas it’s easy to pack “Christmas” away too. We quickly return to “business as usual” and we forget the baby born in a manger; we forget the wonder of this most profound event. Our attitude of worship is far too quickly eclipsed by the pressures of daily living. Christmas marks the greatest miracle of all time – the miracle of God in human flesh. Does this amaze you? Are you compelled to ask the question “Why?”? Why did God become flesh? Why would He enter this world the way everyone else enters this world – as a baby!? The answer to these questions is found in one three letter word – SIN. In fact, one could say that SIN is the reason for the season. Our sin separated us from God and Jesus came to reconcile us to God. Listen to these words from “Oh Holy Night”:
Long lay the world in sin and error pining
'Til He appeared and the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope, a weary world rejoices
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees
Oh, hear the angel voices.
Oh, night divine,
Oh, night when Christ was born!
Only in Jesus does our soul find its true worth. The thrill of hope! A weary world rejoices! Because of Jesus we have worth, we have hope and we have joy! So go ahead, put your Christmas stuff away but don’t forget Christmas. Pastor Don
Pastor's Corner 12/21/08
Not what should we think but how should we think at Christmas. How should the incarnation of Jesus impact our thinking? We are in the midst of troubling times and facing more troubling times ahead. It is being predicted that, worldwide, we are facing economically tough times. Unemployment in Michigan has risen to over 9%! Politically things are, for the Christian, not very encouraging to say the least. Corruption seems to be rife throughout our political system as well, something we thought only happened in other governments. So, what does the Christian do in times like these? We celebrate Christmas! Christmas should always be a time of hope. How can a Christian despair when they remember the baby born in Bethlehem? How can a Christian despair when they remember that the baby’s name is Immanuel which means “God with us”! God living among us in human form means, among other things, that God has not abandoned us; that we have not been left to our own devises. It means that God has a solution to the problem of man. And let me remind you that the problem with man is not economic or political; it is alienation from God through sin. As long as we are alienated from God, I don’t care how optimistic we are economically or politically, we are without hope! However, once we are reconciled to God, nothing can rob us of hope; nothing can make us despair. Where is your hope this Christmas? Is it in your bank account? Is it in your job? Or is it in Jesus? Is Jesus your Lord and Savior? If not, you need to repent of your sins and turn to Jesus for forgiveness and then, being reconciled to God, Christmas will be a time of hope for you too. Pastor Don
Pastor's Corner 12/14/08
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” Luke 2:13-14. This verse is often misquoted with the words, “peace on earth and good will to all men.” The unfortunate thing is that though peace among men is a good thing to pursue it is not the story of Christmas. First, what had just happened in Bethlehem was cause for great joy and glorifying God and second, the peace on earth was among those with whom God was pleased. The birth of Jesus was in order to bring peace between GOD and man. We were enemies of God until Jesus brought peace between us and God through His redemptive work on the cross. There can be no peace among men until there is first peace between men and God. Peace among men is a worthy cause but when we allow this to eclipse the true story of Christmas – peace between God and man – we allow a good thing to take the place of the best thing. And when a good thing replaces the best thing then that good thing becomes a bad thing. Anything that takes our eyes off Jesus and worshipping Him only, then that good thing is a bad thing. So this Christmas remember Jesus was born so that He may reconcile men to God by the forgiveness of sins to all who repent and put their faith in Him. Once you have been reconciled to God making peace with men is a given. Pastor Don
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