Convicted

“…know for certain that God has made Him both Lord and Christ-this Jesus whom you crucified.” Acts 2:36 Arguably one of the strongest invitations ever given, but notice the reaction by the men and women who heard Peter’s message on the Day of Pentecost. “Now when they heard this, they were pierced to the heart…” Pierced to the heart would mean they were touched to the core. They felt grief and strong emotion. Read again the message in Acts 2:14-42 concerning Christ’s death, burial and resurrection (the good news). The gospel message so impacted the listener that they were pierced, cut, pricked, stung in their hearts to make a change. However you translate it, in the early hours of the morning on this day of Pentecost, the people in Jerusalem were convicted in their hearts.

But consider another sermon from the book of Acts that was convicting to the listeners. Peter and the apostles were before the Council and giving their ‘defense’ when they stated, “The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom you had put to death by hanging Him on a cross. He is the one whom God exalted to His right hand as a Prince and a Savior, to grant repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins…” Acts 5:30, 31 In similar wording, Peter offers yet another stirring ‘invitation’ and again the listeners are ‘convicted’ in their hearts. In scripture we read that, “…when they heard this, they were cut to the quick…” No emotional pull from the listener here. There is no grief for a wrong done, but instead, there is an anger swelling up in these ‘convicted hearts.’

In Acts 2:37, when the people in Jerusalem heard Peter’s message and were ‘pierced to the heart’, they came back with the question, “Brethren, what shall we do?” In Acts 5:33 when the Council heard these similar words, “…they intended to kill them (the apostles).” How can two sets of people hear the same message of salvation, feel a strong conviction and yet respond with entirely opposite views? Clearly one was convicted to accept a change while the other was convicted to reject change. For those who know a wrong exists in their lives, God provides an avenue. Peter’s response,“Repent, and let each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins…” (vs. 38). However, as he stood before the Council, when their hearts were ‘cut’, they sought to eliminate the source of their conviction.

Perhaps Paul’s first letter to the church in Corinth helps us understand how some might be convicted to change while others are convicted to rebel against God’s message. I Corinthians 1:23 read, “…but we preach Christ crucified, to Jews a stumbling block, and to Gentiles foolishness, but to those who are called (to those who are asking ‘what must I do to be saved’), both Jews and Greeks, Christ (is) the power of God and the wisdom of God.” So perhaps the question for you and me is simply, when we are convicted of a wrong, when our heart is pierced or pricked, how will we respond?

1, February 11, 20141, March 10, 2014

The Beautiful Bride of Christ…Feb. 9th

This past weekend we enjoyed a time with Wayne & Tami Roberts as they presented their Marriage Seminar, “His Shoes/Her Shoes”. Sunday mornings lesson was focused, appropriately, on Christ’s bride. As a young boy it was difficult for me to see Christ with a bride. And to be honest, Revelation didn’t offer much clarification.

But Revelation chapter 19, verse 7 describes the wedding of Christ and His bride. And when we see the church as being Christ’s bride it begins to make sense. Several of our songs are laced with imagery of the body of believers, Christ’s church, being the bride of Christ. So how prepared would you say you are to be His holy bride? How do you present yourself? Do you consider yourself…’beautiful?’

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, February 9, 2014

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“A Common Love” 705

Singing to encourage each other, we’ll begin this service with a song of love…common love.

“When All of God’s Singers Get Home” – 859

Perhaps the older we get, the more eager we are to get home and relax. Personally, I find music (singing) to be relaxing. When we gather around the throne of God we’ll be singing. Relaxing, yes, but more likely rewarding.

“How Deep the Father’s Love” – no book

We’ve sung this spiritual song many times, but for me it only gets better. Think about the love of our Father…how deep is His love for us? We could conclude that Job’s friend, Zophar, was wrong on many accounts. However, when it comes to God’s love, I think he had it right…Job 11:7-9, “Can you fathom the mysteries of God? Can you probe the limits of the Almighty? They are higher than the heavens above…They are deeper than the depths below…Their measure is longer than the earth and wider than the sea.”

“I Love You, Lord” – 779

Notice the simplicity of this song; “I love you, Lord, and I lift my voice to worship You. O my soul rejoice! Take joy, my King in what You hear; may it be a sweet, sweet sound in Your ear.” Appropriately we’ll sing this song after the Lord’s Supper; would that we all bow and say (sing), “I love you, Lord!”

“He Is My Everything” – no book

From years gone by I recall singing this song in youth devotionals. This morning we’ll sing it as we pass the collection plate. But it’s more than just a simple ‘devo’ song, we are professing that God is everything to us. Question: will you back up these words with action? If someone is important to you (if they are your ‘everything’) than you will value them. So, how valuable is He?

“The Church’s One Foundation” – no book

A familiar message that has been put to several tunes. But for sake of argument, don’t focus on the musical score this time around, instead notice the words. “The church’s one foundation is Jesus Christ her Lord; she is His new creation, by water and the Word: From heaven He came and sought her to be His holy bride, with His own blood He bought her (the church), and for her life He died. Elect from every nation (He chose the church) yet one over all the earth, her charter of salvation, one Lord, one faith, one birth; One holy name (Jesus) she blesses, partakes one holy food (God’s Word, the Bread of Life), and to one hope she presses with every grace endued (provided). Though with a scornful (dislike) wonder we see her sore oppressed, her doctrine (Word) rent asunder (torn apart) by names and creeds distressed (compromising God’s word), yet saints their watch are keeping, they cry ‘How long, how long?’ And soon the night of weeping shall be the morn of song. Amid toil and tribulation, and tumult of her war, she (the church) waits her consummation (Christ’s return) of peace forever more; till with a vision glorious her longing eyes are blest, and the great church victorious shall be the church at rest.’ AMEN!

“Have You Been to Jesus” – 904

The third verse of this ‘invitation song’ gives power to this morning’s lesson as we consider being the ‘bride of Christ.’ “When the Bridegroom cometh (when Jesus comes back) will your robes be white (no wonder we see today’s bride dressed in white…she is to be pure for her groom), pure and white in the blood of the Lamb…”

“He Gave Me a Song” – 608

Next time you attend a wedding, take a moment to look into the eyes of the bride. Who could be happier than a bride on her wedding day? In like manner, our joy is more complete when we see ourselves as the bride of Christ, a beautiful bride. But our beauty isn’t physical…it’s a spiritual attraction that God is looking for. Would that we all keep our self pure for the wedding day!

1, January 17, 20141, January 17, 2014

The Mystery of Marriage…Jan 19th

Why is it some marriages last for decades while others wither months after the honeymoon? Is there a secret formula that provides longevity to the marriage covenant? Maybe there’s a mysterious formula only the ‘lucky’ have discovered? We can better understand how marriages find success when we understand the phrase “I DO”…

The man and woman face each other and the preacher asks the long awaited question, “Do you take this man to be your lawfully wedded husband?” Without hesitation the bride’s response is clear, “I do!” At the same time the penitent one stands before the Lord and is asked a similar question, “Do you believe that Jesus is the Son of God?” That response echoes the bride…”I DO!” A wedding and a baptism, is there a connection? Join us as we look at the mystery of marriage.

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, January 19, 2014

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“You Are the Song that I Sing” – 238

What do we sing on Sunday morning? Is it a song to praise and glorify God? The Psalmist gives us a good starting point when it comes to singing, look to God first and foremost. “You (God) are the words and the music. You (God) are the song that I sing. You (God) are the harmony, You (God) are the melody, praise to Your name (God) I will sing…”

“Let Me Live Close to Thee” – 831

This chorus has a strong alto lead and an incredible message. Giving this hymn it’s title we sing together the chorus; “Let me live close to Thee, take my hand, dear Lord, and guide me all along the rugged way; O let me live close to Thee, let me walk and talk with Thee, dear Lord, each day.” Do you want to live close to Him? Does a husband want to be with his wife or a wife with her husband? They should, and so should the Christian long to be with his Savior.

“In Memory of the Savior’s Love” – 335

Our reading before the Lord’s Supper is I Corinthians 11:23, 24 when Paul reminds us of Christ’s sacrifice and His words. “This is My body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” We’ll sing together, and remember our Savior’s love. Let’s ‘keep the sacred feast’ and be sure we come with humble, contrite (repenting) hearts.

“By Christ Redeemed” – 366

Notice the last three words in each verse of this song conclude with the same words Paul wrote in I Corinthians 11:26. Remembering Christ’s death, burial and resurrection we partake of the Lord’s Supper; “…proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.”

“Sweet Adoration“ – 253

A beautiful contemporary song we’ll sing following the Lord’s Supper expressing our ‘adoration’ to God. But ask yourself, will I honor Him with my words (my lips) and yet keep my heart far from Him (Matthew 15:8)? Understand we should give God, “…glory and honor and praise…a part of our constant devotion.” Husbands and wives, loving your spouse goes beyond just saying “I love you.”

“Wonderful Words of Life” – 543

How many times have you heard the message of salvation? For some it would be many, many times. But still our hearts would say, “Tell me the story of Christ’s love…again.” Sunday morning, before our lesson, we’ll ask each other to “Sing it over again to me, wonderful words of Life…words of Life and beauty (that) teach me faith and duty…”

“Trust and Obey” – 915

Marriages succeed when the husband and wife trust each other. As their marriage grows with the years, so their relationship becomes stronger and happier. If they walk with each other, share each others burdens and trust and obey God’s word they find comfort. In like manner, when we trust in God’s guiding hand, what should be our concern? When we obey His holy word, what is there for us to fear? We sing, “never fear, only trust and obey!”

“Light the Fire” – no book

The contribution plate will be passed after the lesson this morning, but as we give back what already belongs to God, we’ll sing a song of restoration. Asking, as it is, for God to light the fire in our hearts that we would serve and honor Him more.

“How Sweet, How Heavenly” – 709

Closing our worship time together we’ll sing this traditional spiritual song (220 years old) encouraging each other to ‘feel each others sigh’, to cry with each other (‘sorrow flows from eye to eye’) and to overlook each others faults (‘each can his brother’s failings hide’). As a husband and wife do we feel each others sigh? Husband’s, do you cry with your wife? Wives, are you able to over look your husband’s faults? There are some clear similarities with the marriage relationship and the Christian walk. The mystery to marriage might well be found in the walk with Christ.

1, December 6, 20131, December 11, 2013

A Servant is Not Above His Master…Dec. 15th

Every respectful employee understands the expectations of working for his employer. My boss tells me what do to, and I do it (as the scripture says without grumbling or complaining, Phil. 2:14). Yet in a culture that questions authority, this concept is becoming a rare commodity. How do we revive the principle of respect and honor when it comes to the master/servant relationship?

Reading Matthew chapter 10, you’ll see Jesus sending his disciples to ‘…go to the lost sheep of Israel.’ Through His various instructions we read the proclamation, “A servant is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master.” (verse 24) Is this a difficult statement? Do we value ourselves above others to the point that we refuse to serve one another? A child of God never forgets who he serves and he understand why the servant is never above his Master.

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, December 15, 2013

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“Come, Let Us All Unite to Sing” -121

As our country struggled in the early years before the Civil War, a song of unification was penned. That same spiritual song will serve as our opening song of encouragement this Sunday morning. “Come, let us all unite to sing…God is love!” The call is for every soul to wake up from the sleep of death (sin), and make sweet music in his heart…for Jesus’ sake. Why? Simply because God is love!

“Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee” -202

Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” serves as the musical foundation for this hymn of praise. Each verse calls the singer, and the whole of God’s creation, to worship Him. Note verse two; “All Thy works with joy surround Thee, earth and heav’n reflect Thy rays, stars and angels sing around Thee, center of unbroken praise; Field and forest, vale (valley) and mountain, flowery meadow, flashing (surprising) sea, chanting birds and flowing fountain call us to rejoice in Thee.” All of God’s creation praises Him. Will we?

“I Am Thine, O Lord” -666

Before the Lord’s Supper we’ll sing about our devotion to God. The servant-Master relationship is implied as we seek to be ‘consecrated’ (set apart as holy) in His service. The chorus echoes with the desire we have to be drawn nearer to His side. May we turn our hearts and minds back ‘to the cross where Thou hast died.’ Truly, God’s children understand that He is the Master and we say, “I am Yours, O Lord.”

“He Paid a Debt” -376

‘He paid a debt He did not owe…’ On the face of it we sing this song from rote and can sing it with our eyes closed. We know the words, but do we listen to the message. As a servant to his Master we must never forget who paid the debt for us. It’s not about what I have done, but what Jesus did! He paid that debt on Calvary… Amazing Grace!

“On Bended Knee“ -791

A beautiful song of prayer where we come ‘bowing down’ to our King. Understanding this to be a figure of speech, it still behooves us to ask the question, ‘are we willing to bend our knee before the throne?’ Without a humble or broken heart we’ll never truly bow to Him…figuratively. However, remember the scripture is clear, “…that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth…” Philippians 2:10. So literally we will all one day be ‘on bended knee.’

“More About Jesus” -678

Some people think they can never have enough. Never satisfied with what they have, but always looking for more. As servants of the King, we should be looking for more too. We should be striving to know more about Jesus, to learn more about Him and His saving fullness. This old spiritual song uses the word ‘more’ ten times in the first verse alone. As you strive for ‘more’, make Jesus your first and only objective.

“Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus” -679

Serving as our invitation song this morning, we sing a strong affirmation of our trust in Jesus. He is our Master and we trust His judgement. But notice the third verse, ‘…Yes, ’tis sweet to trust in Jesus, just from sin and self to cease…” As we follow the Master we cease living in sin, we start serving the Master and stop serving ourselves. We come to better understand that the servant is not above his Master.

“Make Me a Servant” -694

How appropriate we conclude this morning’s song service with this simple contemporary hymn to God. As you think about what you’re singing you will better understand what you are asking for. “Make me a servant…do what You must do to make me a servant…” Are you really ready for that, for God to do what He must do? If you are truly ready for God to work in you, then you know that a servant can never be above his Master.

1, November 4, 20131, November 4, 2013

This Is Job For…?

With a meteorite heading to earth and no one to help, you might here the phrase, “This is a job for Superman!” Then ‘faster than a speeding bullet’, and out from behind the clouds comes the DC comic hero to save the day. But even without an asteroid heading our way, we still have troubles to deal with and issues we must face. Who comes to the rescue then? Here ‘in the real world’ we have things that need to get done. We say, this is a job for ____________. When the job (big or small) needs to be done and the only ‘super man’ around isn’t able to ‘leap tall buildings’…what do you do?

Some might say, ‘Anybody can do that, it’s not too hard,’ but when it comes time to do the job we are often looking around for Superman. Some have been heard to say, “I would but…” The fact of the matter remains, there is work to be done and a worker needs to do it. It’s almost as if folks are afraid they’ll be asked to save the planet. In reality, we just need workers. Letting the Bible speak (I Cor. 6;9), we can hear God calling us to work “…for we are God’s fellow workers…”. Also Matthew and Mark both refer to labors in the kingdom (vineyard). We have work to do, no doubt. The question remains, who will do the work?

Keith Lancaster’s, Acappella made famous a song that epitomizes many in today’s society. When a task is to be done you might hear someone say, ‘Anybody could do that…somebody should do that…will anybody do it?’ Unfortunately the response is usually, ‘I would but I’m too busy.’

‘Everybody Said (But Nobody Did)’

CHORUS:
Everybody said that anybody could do The important things somebody should do Everybody knows that anybody could do All the good things that nobody did

1) Well the preacher came to me and said what I ought to do If I wanted to make my religion true He’d do it himself but he really didn’t have the time He said that the duty was mine

CHORUS:

2) Well the deacon came by and said give me a hand If you want to be going to the promised land Here is something that I don’t have time to do So I better give it to you
CHORUS:

Well I’m too busy so I tell everybody The work’s got to get done by somebody It could be done by anybody But nobody, nobody, nobody did

Earth hangs in the balance, between life and death. There’s no rocket of destruction or asteroid headed our way, but we do hang in the balance between good and evil. Imagine if Clark Kent had observed the threat and said, “That looks like trouble, maybe somebody should do something.” You might not be a ‘super man’, but you are somebody who can make a difference. Besides, it just might be that the next task is a job for you.

1, September 23, 2013

A Golden Opportunity

Have you ever wished you had known about something that was coming up so you could have been a part of it? A presentation or special program that you would have promoted, supported or at least attended if someone had ‘clued you in’ on the opportunity. Sometimes we find out about things after the fact and, to be honest, at that time, it’s a little too late. The chance to participate and grow would have been a welcome part of your schedule, but instead…you missed a golden opportunity.

The young mother would have benefited from the seminar on parenting and child raising, but no invitation was offered to her. The old coach would like to have seen and heard the athlete who was scheduled to speak at the fund raiser; but no one thought to send the old man an invitation. Granted, they might not have gone to the event, but you’ll never know unless you invite them. We miss some great opportunities to enrich the lives of others simply because we don’t say anything. We know some great gem of interest, but hold it to ourselves and miss a golden opportunity. Why do we pass up those moments to encourage and reach out? Are we just too busy taking care of our wants that we don’t give thought to what someone else might enjoy, or need?

Maybe the answer lies in our attitude or perhaps in our lack of courage and conviction. Either way, if you have some good news to share and an invitation to offer but instead hold it back you are, for all practical purposes, taking away an opportunity.

The same can be said about our faith in Christ. Certainly you’ve read Matthew 28 as our Savior exhorts us to, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit…” But how will ‘the nations’ become disciples (be baptized) if they have never hear about the Son? Romans 10:14 states it best; “How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed? How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher?” There must be someone who will teach (preach) about the Savior. Someone must be ready to offer an invitation to ‘come’ and know about Jesus. Who will tell your friends about heaven? Will you share with them the golden opportunity for salvation?

In the early 1900’s, James Rowe penned a song that some classify as sad and ‘depressing.’ A song that reminds us of the responsibility we have to teach (even show) our faith in Christ to our friends. Have you taken the time to tell someone about Jesus? They can never believe unless they hear and they’ll never hear unless they are told. Don’t wait for someone else to ‘offer the invitation’, that opportunity of a life time is yours and yours alone.

When in the better land, before the bar we stand
how deeply grieved our souls will be
If any lost one there should cry in deep despair;
‘You never mentioned Him to me.’

Refrain:
You never mentioned Him to me.
Nor help me not the light to see,
You met me day by day and knew I was astray
Yet never mentioned Him to me.

O let us spread the word, where ‘er it may be heard
Help groping souls the light to see.
That yonder none may say, ‘You showed me not the way.’
You never mentioned Him to me.

Refrain:

A few sweet words may guide a lost one to His side
or turn sad eyes to Calvary.
So work as days go by, that yonder none may cry,
‘You never mentioned Him to me.’

Refrain:

The old athlete might enjoy hearing some motivational talk from his younger counterpart, and the young mother might need help raising her child in the nurture and admonition of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4). But will anyone invite them to come, learn and grown. Without an invitation or a word of encouragement we miss a golden opportunity to provide that support. But more over, without sharing Jesus to our friends and family we miss an even greater opportunity to ‘turn sad eyes to Calvary.’

1, September 6, 20131, September 9, 2013

A Trip to the Beauty Salon…September 8th

As a young boy, I remember mother giving me the monthly haircut. With tears in my eyes she would take the old Oster hair clippers, a pair of scissors and set out to ‘lower my ears.’ Today, things are different. A trip to get a hair cut might leave me short $15-20. The ladies, however, are going to spend a bit more. As a matter of fact, one nation-wide report claims the annual cost for a woman to ‘have her hair done’ could cost between $1,000 – $4,000 dollars. Personally, that’s enough to make me want to cry…

But what does the cost of hair styling have to do with a Sunday morning sermon? Can application be made for living a godly life in comparison with the beautification process? Perhaps we need to consider how much time and money we give to preparing ourselves for godly service as opposed to physical beauty. OR maybe we should look inward rather than outward as we consider how beautiful someone is.

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, September 8, 2013

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“O Worship the King” 303
“Jesus is All the World to Me” 590

A short medley that is focused on worshiping the King and acknowledging how valuable Jesus is in my life. Have you ever looked at the last phrase of this song? Each verse ends with the statement, ‘He’s my Friend.’ We worship the King because we know He is my life, my joy and my all. As a matter of fact, the Christian understands there is no better friend than Jesus. He gives me strength in a difficult world, and in Christ we live a beautiful life that has no end.

“How Beautiful” – 365

This contemporary song serves to prepare our minds for the Lord’s supper. We think of the beautiful hands of Christ as He served men during His life on earth. We remember those ‘beautiful feet’ that walked the dusty road to the cross. We remember that He laid down His life and we sing, “How beautiful is the body of Christ…”

“O Lord, You’re Beautiful” – 275

This hymn we’ll sing between the bread and the fruit of the vine; “O Lord, You’re beautiful, Your face is all I seek, and when Your eyes are on this child, Your grace abounds to me.” His beauty, more than anything in this world, is want we seek in our life…or is it? What do you seek?

“In His Time” – 839

Another contemporary song, but this one never seemed to ‘take hold’ with the masses; but what a message! Do we have the patience to wait for God to act ‘in His time’ or are we too accustomed to a culture that ‘want’s it now?’ Read the words from this song; “Lord, please show me every day as You’re teaching me Your way, that You do just want You say in Your time.”

“Let the Beauty of Jesus Be Seen in Me” – 722

The message of this song fits perfectly with our lesson and the accompanying scripture; I Peter 3:3, 4 “Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.” As we sing this song, take note of the third verse; “From the dawn of the morning to close of day, in example, in deeds and in all you say; lay your gifts at His feet, ever strive to keep sweet, let the beauty of Jesus be seen in you.” Do you try to keep sweet throughout the day? Am I laying my gifts at His feet (giving Him the credit for all I have) from the morning to the evening? Can the world see the beauty of Jesus in me?

“Victory in Jesus” – 470

An upbeat song as we encourage each other toward Victory! I’ve heard lots of stories and many are worthy hearing again and again. We may even find some are valuable enough we’ll repeat them to others. But what about the story of Jesus? We sing that we’ve heard an old, old story; we’ve heard about His healing and we’ve heard about a mansion…but unless we repent and obey, we’ll never win or gain that victory in Jesus!

“Just As I Am” – 924

An ‘invitation song’ that has been around since the mid-1800’s, Charlotte Elliott touched the hearts of millions as they have responded to the invitation call. Notice one of those ‘forgotten’ verses as we’ll be singing it on Sunday morning. “Just as I am though tossed about, with many a conflict, many a doubt. With fears within and foes without, O Lamb of God I come! I come!” Have our hearts grown so cold that we don’t fear being separated from God? When will begin to understand the urgency of ‘waiting not’ to get rid of the dark blot that separates us from God? Our cleansing comes only by the blood of the spotless Lamb of God. Will you come?

“Let Me Live Close to Thee” – 831

As we consider our inward beauty we need to realize the closer we get to God and a godly life the more we’ll reflect Jesus. Fitting that we sing a song of encouragement to work in the field and never ‘shirk’ our responsibilities for God. Would that we remember the crown (hair styles?) and the renown (public recognition) matter little when it comes to letting Christ live in our life.

1, September 3, 20131, September 3, 2013

Thoughts From the Cross

Have you ever wondered what went through Jesus’ mind as He hung on the cross? The gospel accounts tell us about the scorn of the soldiers, the hatred of the Jews, the fear of the apostles and the sorrow of Mary; but little is said of the mental state of Jesus Himself.

Fortunately, almost a full millennium before the death of Christ, David penned the soul stirring words of Psalm 22. This powerful psalm eloquently relates Jesus’ perspective as He bled and died for humanity’s sin. David writes, almost as if he were standing at the foot of the cross peering into the mind of the Savior. His words give us a glimpse into Heaven’s point of view, and helps us to grasp the intense anguish of our Savior as He hung upon Calvary’s tree.

The Cry of the Savior (Psalm 22:1-5)

“My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” What a cry was made by our Lord and Savior. One can only imagine the loneliness that Christ felt on Execution Hill. The Lord made Him a sin offering, placing the whole of man’s sin upon His shoulders. The weight of that sin must have been unbearable as Jesus knows that He had been ‘made to be sin’ for us (2 Corinthians 5:21) and that the eyes of God Almighty were too pure to even look upon Him (Habakkuk 1:13). Yet despite His solitude, Jesus still gave reverence to His Father, “Yet, You are holy, O You are enthroned upon the praises of Israel.” Psalm 22:3

The Rejection of the Savior (Psalm 22:6-13)

Can you imagine One who left behind the splendor of Heaven for our benefit, being treated with less respect than a worm? Jesus, “…came to His own, and those who were His own did not receive Him.” John 1:22. The Jews desecrated his dignity and sentenced Him to a death normally reserved for the lowest of the low. David records, “But I am a worm and not a man; reproach of men and despised by the people…” (Psalm 22:6). Jesus truly was ‘a man of sorrows’ (Isaiah 53:3) He was hated, scorned, mocked, spat upon, beaten, rejected and ultimately crucified on behalf of the very men and women who despised Him…and some still do today.

The Crucifixion of the Savior (Psalm 22:14-18)

It is difficult to surmise a form of punishment more cruel and humiliating than crucifixion. Though undeserving, our Savior suffered this torturous death at the hands of Roman soldiers. As His body hung there, weakened from the beating just hours earlier, those who hated Jesus looked upon Him with a sadistic satisfaction. They are described as dogs that enclosed Him and pierced Him; “For dogs have surrounded Me; a band of evildoers has encompassed me; they pierced my hands and my feet.” (vs. 16) They laughed and mocked at Him, inflicting pain to the best of their limited abilities. The spotless Lamb of God endured this for you and me.

The Deliverance of the Savior (Psalm 22:19-21)

In His hour of darkness, the Messiah found consolation and hope in His Father, our Lord. “But You, O Lord, be not far off, O Lord my help, hasten to my assistance.” Psalm 22:19. The Hebrew writer reveals that Christ offered up both prayers and supplications to the Lord (Hebrews 5:7). Truly, to whom may we turn in times of extreme need? Christ did not forsake His Father, neither did He despise Him during His hour of trail. Rather, Christ called out to Him and placed His confidence in Him. We, too, find our deliverance through Christ in God the Father.

Thanks to Terry Harmon (the former minister of the Flagler church of Christ in Flagler, Colorado) for once again sharing some thoughts about our Savior and His death on the cross. Would that we come to better understand the cry of the Savior, His rejection and crucifixion on the cross so we can learn of the deliverance we have in Him.

1, August 30, 20131, August 30, 2013

The Opportunity of a Life Time…September 1st

Some things only come around ‘once in a life time.’ We look forward to those opportunities when we can ‘make our mark’ or share some level of expertise that will effect that one-time, life-changing event. So what would you do when that time comes? Do you know when that moment will be?

Maybe we should ask, ‘can we prepare for that once in a life time event?’ How much training would it take to be ready? Then again, you would need to know what to train for and how to prepare for that opportunity. So consider this…what if someone asks you about Christ? Could that be ‘the opportunity of a life time’ and would you be ready?

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, September 1, 2013

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“Doxology” 66
“I Sing Praises” – 97

A simple medley that combines a traditional hymn (1709) with a contemporary hymn (1989). The key signature is the same, but the message is what makes this a powerful duo. As the congregation sings, “Praise God from whom all blessings flow…”, we continue with the assurance that we will “…sing praises to Thy name, O, Lord…” A beautiful combination of praise to our God.

“Tell Me the Story of Jesus” – 387

Many have sung this old spiritual song their whole life (written in 1880), and we have heard the singer tell about Christ on the Cross. But not just the cross, we also tell about the grave were Christ was ‘buried’. Yet without the next line our song would come to a sad conclusion. But then, as the Son rises, we sing, “tell that He lives again…” (Notice, we are singing the gospel; the death, burial and resurrection.) The third verse holds an emotional plea to, “…stay, let me weep while you whisper, ‘Love paid the ransom for me…” Think for a minute, when was the last time you cried when you considered Christ’s sacrifice?

“My Eyes are Dry” – 792

Listen to the message from this rather recent spiritual song/hymn; “My eyes are dry, my faith is old, my heart is hard, my prayers are cold…” A fearful situation to be sure, but how true is it for those who come together every Sunday morning? How many just go through the motions of being a Christian and never take inventory of their spiritual well-being. Without Jesus…we are lost. We all need to be ‘softened up’ with the spirit of His love and ‘washed anew’ in His blood. So…when was the last time you cried when you thought about His love?

“A Charge to Keep I Have” – 58
“People Need the Lord” – 660

Another medley we’ll sing before our lesson that combines the traditional (1832) with the contemporary (1983). In a dangerously lost world, it doesn’t take much to see that people need Jesus. And we, as children of God, have a charge, a responsibility to tell the world about Him. We may realize, but do we care that, “people need the Lord?”

“I Love to Tell the Story” – 659

We talk about all the things we love in life, but before our lesson we’ll sing about ‘loving to tell’ the story of Jesus Christ. You have certainly sung the song, but will you do what you sing? Each of these verses are filled with the reason we should not only sing about our Savior, but look forward to telling others about Him too. You can never tell when that ‘opportunity of a life time’ will come to you.

“Wonderful Words of Life” – 543

Let’s stand and sing this familiar melody from the late 1800′s. Not a typical invitation song, but the message couldn’t be clearer, “…sinner, list to the loving call,” “Wonderful words of Life; offer pardon and peace to all…” How eager are you to ‘Sweetly echo the gospel call…?” You never know when someone might be ready to listen to those wonderful words of life.

“Will You Not Tell It Today” – 628

As we leave the auditorium Sunday morning we’ll sing the question that has be asked for generations, “If the name of the Savior is precious to you…will you tell it (the good news) today?” But notice the ending to each of the three verses; “…will you not tell of your gladness today?”, “…will you not, my brother, the story repeat (the story of salvation)?” “…will you not tell them (the lost) the cheer-bringing word?” If you’re honest with yourself, every day you have the opportunity of a life-time.

1, August 23, 20131, August 24, 2013

Hobson’s Choice?…August 25th

How much do you really want what’s being offered? Are there times when you feel the ‘gift’ just isn’t worth it? A father offers his son an old, beat up car as a graduation gift; but the boy was wanting something newer and with more appeal. Dad’s response; ‘Well son, this is what you’ve got. You can take it or leave it.’

But is it really a choice? If you reject what’s offered you’re left with nothing, but if you take what you don’t really want, how can that be ‘my choice?’ Thomas Hobson lived in the late 1500’s and he owned a horse-rental business in England. This idea provides the back drop for Sunday morning’s lesson. Can a Christian find Biblical application in “Hobson’s Choice?”

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, August 25, 2013

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“The Steadfast Love of the Lord” -123

Taken from Lamentation 3:22-24, our opening song this morning is a Psalm since we will be singing scripture. “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases.” Of course! If His love is steadfast…it never would cease. We believe and know that His mercies never come to an end either. But the question today, do you hope in Him?

“Lord, Take Control” – 790

We’ve set the contribution early this morning, and as we prepare to give back a portion which is rightful His. We’ll sing about giving our hearts, minds, bodies and souls to God. But most are more comfortable with just giving to God our financial means, our money. But are you really prepared to say, “Lord, take control” of my life? It’s more than just a song, it’s a commitment.

“We Bow Down” – 577

A contemporary song with a basic message, “You are Lord of creation and Lord of my life, Lord of the land and the sea. You were Lord of the heavens before there was time, and Lord of all lord’s You will be.” Some will, in their hearts and lives, bow down and worship while others will just sit by and sing. What are you willing to do?

“The Lord’s Supper” – no book

Tillit S. Teddlie wrote a vast number of songs to focus the Christian and glorify God. This spiritual song is used primarily around the Lord’s table as we remember Christ death. Notice the scripture reference as we conclude each verse; “While we feast Christ gentle whispers, ‘Do this in My memory.’” At Waterview this Sunday morning we’ll read I Corinthians 11:23, 24 then sing this song to focus more on His memorial.

“By Christ Redeemed” – 366

Similar to Teddlie’s song which sites I Corinthians 11: 24, this song by George Rawson also alludes to Paul’s words in I Corinthians. Notice the words from this old song; “By Christ redeemed, in Christ restored, we keep the Supper of the Word, and show the death of our dear Lord, until He come.” Each line of this song ends the same way, ‘…until He come.’ Paul wrote in vs 26, “…for as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.”

“O Happy Day” – 494

I remember very well the night my grandparents were baptized. The congregation that gathered together sang this song after their baptism. We’ll sing it again Sunday morning as we conclude the Lord’s Supper and remember the hope we have because of the sacrifice He gave. Christians appreciate the last verse, “Tis done; the great transaction’s done; I am my Lord’s and He is mine! He drew me, and I followed on, charmed to confess the voice divine…” Each time we take of the Lord’s Supper, we confess His matchless love.

“We’re Marching to Zion” – 869

A great song before our lesson…Christians are marching to Zion (heaven) and we should be proudly proclaiming that fact. Or are you more like verse 2, refusing to sing? Maybe for those who have never heard would refuse to open their voices and hearts, but how can a child of God keep quiet when we join together to praise Him? You might stop and think about that next time you don’t want to sing…

“I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say” – 389

Perhaps not a typical invitation song, but the message here is clear. Each line begins with “I heard the voice of Jesus say…” Reading your Bible and you’ll hear Him say ‘Come unto me…I am the living water…I am the light of the world’. Jesus calls us to come follow Him. Reading your Bible you can hear the voice of Jesus. Maybe this is more of an invitation song they we’ve previously thought?

“Home of the Soul” – 875

By request we’ll sing this old spiritual song of heaven. Christians strive for that home above, we hope for a ‘sweet rest’ and we look forward to the bright homeland, but we first need to endure the storms of life. Maybe we should ask ourselves how much we long for Him? Are the storms worth fighting? Are we laboring for the Master and leaning on Him, or are we just biding our time here on earth? If you are one of the ‘ransomed’ you’re looking forward to that beautiful home of the soul…And, if the truth be known, you have a “Hobson’s Choice”.