Category: Heaven

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Passing the Baton…Mar. 30th

The year was 2008, and four men were running for their life. Their adversaries were all around, but they were prepared for this moment. They knew the routine and had visualized it (and done it) over and over and over. Then disaster struck. Two of the four men failed to complete their assigned duties. They failed to pass the baton. In a split second the aluminum cylinder skipped off the track dropped batonand the hopes of a gold medal vanished. During the 2008 Summer Olympics, Tyson Gay and Darvis Patton failed to make the hand off in the 4×100 relay, but if the truth be told, an entire country felt the sting of disappointment when we failed to pass the baton.

But there are other areas in which failing to ‘pass the baton’ can crush hope. A teacher who fails to pass on valuable knowledge, drops the baton. A person of authority who knows truth and yet refuses to stand for what’s right, drops the baton. A father who fails to teach his child the truths of God’s word, drops the baton. As Christians, we have a unique responsibility when it comes to passing on the knowledge of salvation in Christ Jesus. The question is, how are we passing the baton?

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

Sunday morning, March 30, 2014

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

“Surround Us, Lord” – no book

“As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds His people…” Taken from the 125th chapter of Psalms, this ‘psalm’ is a direct quote from the word of God. Would that we call upon our God to surround us with His love, mercy and protection…just as the mountains surrounded the city of Jerusalem.

heaven...sunrise

 

“We’re Marching to Zion” – 869

A call for Christians to come, march (live a life) for Christ! Not in protest or defiance to the world, but to ‘let our joys be known.’ Please consider carefully the second verse and see where you are in this march. “Let those refuse to sing who never knew our God, but children of the heavenly King may speak their joys abroad (all around)…” How are you with your singing? Do you sing and speak of the joy you have in Christ? Remember, when you sing about the beautiful city of God, you’re helping pass the baton!

“Ten Thousand Angels” – 349

When we read the scripture, this song should have a different name. Matthew 26:53 states, He could have called 12 legions of angels. So perhaps a better title would be “Seventy-two Thousand Angels.” Never forget, Christ was (is) in control and we are all indebted to His sacrifice. They did bind the hands of Jesus and they did lead Him through the streets…but He allowed it. Take some time to remember that they did spit upon our Savior and He was pure and free from sin…think about Him as we remember the Lord’s Supper.

“Humble Yourself” – 745

Taken from James chapter 4, verse 10, “Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you.” Understand what it means to humble yourself. By definition, “showing submissive respect.” As we come together to worship God we are in His presence. Are you submissive and respectful of Him…or is your mind somewhere else?

“Lord, Speak to Me” – 771

As we consider this morning’s lesson, notice verse three of this hymn; “O teach me Lord, that I may teach the precious things Thou dost impart…” Understand that what we’re singing this morning is a prayer. We’re asking for God’s help as we run the race, teach others about Him, and pass the baton.

“Pass It On” – no book

An old youth song from Camp Blue Haven that reminds me of my youth. “It only takes a spark to get a fire going…I wish for you my friend this happiness that I’ve found…I’ll shout it from the mountain tops, I want the world to know, the Lord of love has come to me, I want to pass it on.” Do we really want to pass it on, or are we waiting for someone to come and take it?

“Wonderful Words of Life” – 543

Before our lesson we’ll sing a ‘spiritual song’ that resounds with the idea of passing the baton. “Sweetly echo the gospel call…offer pardon and peace to all…Jesus, only Savior, sanctified forever!” We have wonderful words that give life, beautiful words of life, are we passing this message on? 

“To Christ Be True” – 736

As the Olympic runner wins the race and crosses the finish line he runs another lap with the banner of his country flag unfurledflowing above him in proud display. If we are to be loyal and true we’ll pass on the message of Jesus Christ. We’ll be brave in His service of taking the message of salvation to a lost and dying world. We’ll ‘pass the baton’ being careful not to drop it. Then, as we sing, “…His banner be unfurled, and borne aloft till is secured the conquest of the world.”

“Heavenly Sunlight” – 611

Completing this service we’ll remind each other of our walk on this journey, that we’re pressing our way to mansion’s above. And though this journey may lead us over the mountains or through the deep valley, our Savior will never forsake us. We rejoice with that assurance…“Hallelujah!”, but we must always be ready to pass the baton!

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Is There Life After Life?…Mar. 16th

From generation to generation this question has been asked in some form or fashion, by young and old alike; what happens after this life? Will we live again? cemetery at nightEven looking into the book of Job we read this question being asked by a man of God who suffered through the trials of life. In extreme pain he waits for death and is found wondering…what’s next?

In the 14th chapter of Job we read the words of a man who is in anguish. A man saddened by tragedy and tormented by the great deceiver himself (chapter 1). As Job wrestles with issues about life and death, and as he considers his pain and loss he looks toward life’s end and asks, “If a man dies, will he live again?” An honest question, but notice the next sentence to come from his mouth, “All the days of my struggle I will wait until my change comes.” There is a change coming, and as we hear the question echo through the ages we have confidence knowing…there will be life after life!

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

Sunday morning, March 16, 2014

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

“The Battle Belongs to the Lord” – 749david and goliath

“In heavenly armor we’ll enter the land, the battle belongs to the Lord…”  A rousing song of victory to start off our morning of worship and praise together. You have to put yourself into the mind of a soldier as we consider weapons, powers of darkness, standard (banners), an enemy and ultimately courage. So let’s sing, “…Glory, Honor, Power and Strength to the Lord!”

“It Is Well with My Soul” – 490

We’ll use the first three verses of this song to set the mind for partaking of the Lord’s Supper. Notice this ‘lost’ verse 2, “Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come, let this blessed assurance control. That Christ hath regarded my helpless estate and hath shed His own blood for my soul…” Be ready, we’ll bring verse four in after we remember the Lord’s death. “And Lord, haste the day when the faith shall be sight. The sky be rolled back as a scroll, the trump shall resound and the Lord shall descend, even so it is well with my soul.

“I Love the Lord” – 359

Not usually sung alone, we’ll take the chorus and sing immediately after the chorus of “It is Well With My Soul.” It should go something like this…“It is well, it is well with my soul.” “I love the Lord, He has been so good to me, He gave His life, from sin to set me free; No greater love than His could ever be, I love the Lord, because He first loved me.” But don’t miss the power of remembering Christ death that we find in the first verse. “I love the Lord, for He died my soul to save, on Calvary His dear life He freely gave…” Thanks be to God for the sacrifice of His Son and His great love for us!

“The Greatest Commands” – 448

Each verse adds another singing part in this contemporary song of praise. We’ll sing for harmony, but be careful not to miss the scripture that is woven throughout this psalm. Altos begin singing I John 4:7, 8, following in the second verse the bass echos I Corinthians 13:7. The tenor repeats “God is love” from I John 4, but the sopranos join in with the concluding verse as they reference Luke 10:27. Now, take your Bible and ‘sing’ for yourself.

“In Heavenly Love Abiding” – 139

Following the reading of Job 14, we’ll sing the first verse of this song. In scripture we’ll read, “…If a man dies, will he live again? All the days of my struggle I will wait until my change comes.” Follow the thought…“In Heavenly love abiding no change my heart shall fear; and safe is such confiding, for nothing changes here. The storm may roar without me, my heart may low be laid, but God is round about me, and can I be dismayed?”

“Hilltops of Glory” – no book

As if answering the question left by the previous song, “…can I be dismayed?”, we open up with the next song… “Onward rejoicing I tread life’s way, higher I’m climbing each passing day; Hilltops of glory now rise in view, where all shall be made new…”

“I Am Coming, Lord” – 923

The question is asked and an answer is requested. If you believe there is more to this life than just death, what will you crossroadsdo? What is the path you’ll take as you draw closer to the end of this life? This invitation song gives us the answer, our next step, throughout life, is to draw closer to God. Would that we say, “I am coming, Lord!” Because if the truth be known, when life is over…we’ll be going somewhere. I want to say, I’m going to be with God. 

“There is a Habitation” – 860

Where is home? Not your physical address, but your ‘life after life’ home? We take comfort in knowing ‘there is a habitation’ for those who trust the Lord, obey His word and live for Him. This home we look forward to is a city with foundations that will never be shaken by wars or desolation. There is no trace of sorrow, death or decay in this home. We call this home Zion, the city of God. This is the place we should all prepare for…in life after life.

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From New Life to Eternal Life…March 2nd

Once a year we take some time to recognize and encourage our families with Baby picturenew born babies. This Sunday we’ll honor six of our young families and their new additions. But what possibly could we gain from focusing on this ‘new life?’

As a child Timothy was raised by his mother and grandmother (2 Timothy 1:5). So strong was the influence of these women that Paul mentions Timothy’s ‘sincere faith’ which ‘first dwelt in his (your) grandmother Lois and his (your) mother Eunice.’ A parent who passes down the importance of godly living is worthy of honor. As we recognize ‘new life’ in these families we’ll be encouraging them to teach the importance of seeking ‘eternal life’ with God.

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

Sunday morning, March 2, 2014

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

“Blue Skies and Rainbows” -no book

To begin our worship time together we’ll sing a song that was popular around the campfire during the 1970’s. A ‘devo’ song that has all the elements of praise. From the sunbeams of heaven, to the green grass and flowers, to the tall mountains and green valleys, we sing each verse recognizing our creator and praising Him for His mighty works. ‘Jesus is well and alive today…’ Amen!Rainbow over Mt Alice

“You Are My All in All” -484

Though some may find repetition in this hymn, the message is worth repeating, “Jesus, Lamb of God, worthy is Your name!” But have you thought about the message in the second verse? Consider; “Seeking You as a precious jewel, Lord, to give up (seeking you) I’d be a fool…” How foolish we sometimes act as we turn to follow our own desires. Remember, worshiping God is not for the weak minded. Think about what you’re singing…

“I Will Sing of My Redeemer” -513

Before the Lord’s Supper we’ll sing this non-typical communion song. But notice the message; “I will sing of my Redeemer, and His wondrous love for me; on the cruel cross He suffered, from the curse to set me free. Sing, O sing of my Redeemer! With His blood He purchased me; on the cross He sealed my pardon, paid the debt and made me free.” Turn your heart and your mind to the cross, the cruel cross, and remember you’ve been pardoned.

“We Saw Thee Not” -342

Between the bread and the fruit of the vine we’ll sing the 2nd and 3rd verses, respectively. Having lived over 2,000 years ago we were never privileged to see our Savior face to face, so we sing; “We saw Thee not when lifted high…we gazed not in the open tomb and we never met Thee on the open road…But we believe!”

“On Bended Knee” -791

How do you approach God? What is your posture and your position when you come to worship Him? Though we might not physically be bowing to the ground, where is your heart in relationship to His power and authority? Would that we come to Him with humble hearts, with broken hearts, on bended knees…pledging our love a new.

“I Know That My Redeemer Lives” -528

Musically this is an energetic spiritual song. One that admonishes the hearer with a bombardment of confirmation…hear it again; “I know that my Redeemer lives…I know eternal life He gives…I know His saving grace is nigh (near)…I know that He will come again…I know that a home stands ‘over yonder’…I know, I know, I know, I know…that my Redeemer lives.”

“Kneel at the Cross” -945

If we are to give our life to Christ, to be baptized into His death, to ‘begin life anew,’ we must first come to the cross. Kneel at the cross, but be ready to give your idols up. Many will say they are ‘coming to Jesus,’ but they hold on to the world. We can ‘meet Jesus there’ but we must be ready to stay with Him. Don’t look back to the world, ‘to life’s sparkling cup’ but trust in Him!

“How Beautiful Heaven Must Be” -885

As we close on Sunday morning we’ll sing of heaven, and how appropriate that we do. With ‘new life’ we anticipate our eternal life in heaven. Though we might not be able to fathom the beauty of heaven, we can know from His word that it will be for the ‘pure and the free.’ We trust that there will be ‘no drooping or pining’ (no feeling of despair or grief), and that God’s light will be our illumination. “How beautiful heaven must be…”       

“Beyond This Land of Parting” -870

To provide a little more time for the families with ‘new babies’ to get to the church-wide potluck, we’ll add one more closing song. It will segue nicely with the previous song as we go from “how beautiful heaven must be…” to “Beyond this land of parting losing and leaving…” Summer land…a new life, an eternal life, a place of bliss. We’re thankful that God has given this congregation several loving families with new life. But families must bring these babies to God and prepare them for eternal life.

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How Can We Redeem a Moment of Time?…Jan. 5th

With the beginning of a new year you might find yourself asking the question, “Where did the time go?”  Each day we spend on this earth is a gift.  Each minute we live out is a reflection of our heart at that moment in time.  But what if we say something or do something but we ‘didn’t mean it.’  We know that our behavior/words at that moment don’t reflect who we really are or what we want to be.  How do I get that ‘minute’ back?

moving time backNew Year’s resolutions are a common practice during the next few weeks.  We ‘resolve’ to do better, make some changes and demonstrate a new practice for this new year.  And each day we’ll make decisions (just like last year) to eat better and work-out more.  But when the day is over and our resolve has ‘dissolved,’ how do you get it back?  Can you get it back?  Is there any hope we might be able to ‘redeem a moment of time?’  Join us Sunday morning as we welcome in a new year and consider how we spend our time… 

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

Sunday morning, January 5, 2014

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

“We Praise Thee, O God” – 2

This song is filled to the brim with thankfulness and praise coming from our hearts as we sing to our Father. The first four verses echo with our gratefulness and thankfulness to Him and in verse five, the writer, William MacKay helps us to turn our attitude in a way of humbly asking God for His favor. In verse five we sing, asking our Father to “revive us again” and to let each of our souls be,“rekindled with fire from above.” How powerful the words that we sing. It only begins to help us to recognize how small and powerless we are compared to the, “God of all grace”.  Let us allow Him to ‘rekindle our spirits’ this morning as we begin our time of praise and adoration.

“In Christ Alone” -no book

This song is not in most hymn books, but what a powerful message it has we sing.  With each verse of this song we hear, “In Christ Alone”, and it helps us to realize that we can only do our best things through Christ alone. He is our “cornerstone” and our “solid ground” and as we prepare our minds for the Lord’s supper let us reflect on how we should rely on him more. 

“Fairest Lord Jesus” – 288

After the Lords supper we will sing of our beautiful Savior.  We will sing a verse that is not in the book but is still as powerful reminder of our Savior’s love.  “Beautiful Savior, Lord of all nations! Son of God and Son of Man. Glory and honor, praise, adoration, Now and forever more be thine!” What a beautiful verse as we praise Him in saying, “Fairest Lord Jesus!”

“Remind Me, Dear Lord” – 606 We recognize in singing this song that the earthly things that we have are “just borrowed, they’re aren’t mine at all.” curtainIn the chorus of this song we ask our Father to open our minds, help us search our memories and to remember where we have come from. What a touching scene this would be, if humbly we come to him and ask for His patience with us.  We, as His children plead with him and I can imagine myself in a small and quiet voice saying, “Roll back the curtain of memory now and then.  Show me where You brought me from and where I could have been….”

“Take Time to Be Holy” – 731

As your new year is underway, consider how often you will take time to stop and strive to be holy?  Honestly, I’m afraid we make time for Him and therefore fail to get the nourishment that we need to grow as Christians. This song is merely encouraging us to as the “world rushes on” to seek Him in His guidance and council.  And as we do let us consider each of our thoughts, deeds and motives and be sure they are, “beneath His control”.

“A New Creature” – 619

This song is a song that is meant to be sung to one another as encouragement. In the third verse T. O. Chisholm pinned some very inspiring words, “Sin hath no more its cruel dominion, walking ‘in newness of life’ I am free, glorious life of Christ, my Redeemer, which He so richly shareth with me.” As we walk in our “newness of life” with Christ let us be reminded of what He sacrificed so we could share heaven with Him.

“Why Do You Wait?” – no book Serving as our invitation song this morning, we sing/ask the simple question of; “Why do you wait, dear brother?” Very simple and yet very to the point. Many times in life we may reach the time when we’re asked this question. “Why are you delaying?  What do you hope to gain by stalling?” The questions that we are asking are so simplistic, and yet many times the answer escapes us.  I don’t have a good reason for putting off what needs to be done.  When it comes to accepting Christ as your Savior just remember…“There is no one to save you but Jesus, there is no other way but His way.”

“Hold To God’s Unchanging Hand” – 613hold to His hand

A song of encouragement that is meant to be sung as reassurance.  Even though our lives are “filled with swift transition…” (lots of changes) and even, “if by earthly friends forsaken” we find comfort in the consistency of God’s strong hands.  Serving as a constant theme throughout the song, we encourage each other to hold to Gods Unchanging Hand.  It’s hard to redeem time once it’s passed, but holding tight to the Father’s hand will be a decision you’ll never regret.

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A Compelled or Committed Disciple?…Dec. 29th

mowing the lawnAs a young boy I remember my parents telling me, “You don’t have to do the chores, you get to.”  My opinion was not that I was being honored by the work, but I was being compelled to do it.  My dad’s opinion was just the opposite.  If I wanted the benefits of eating mom’s cooking and the privilege of sleeping in a warm bed, then I would show my commitment to the family.  I would get to do my chores.  We often see what lies before us as a ‘have to’ task.  But is that our focus in the church? 

Matthew, Mark and Luke all record a certain man who helped Jesus carry His cross, Simon of Cyrene.  But as you read the passage, he wasn’t a ‘put me in coach, I’m ready to play’ type of guy.  He was “…pressed into service to bear the cross.”  (Matthew 27:32)  Though we don’t know his heart, Simon was compelled to serve.  As a disciple of Christ, are you pressed into service or are you doing your task because you’re committed to the family? 

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

Sunday morning, December 29, 2013

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

“I Stand in Awe” 96

A song to open our worship to God which calls upon us to proclaim our adoration to Him.  To not only say “Holy God”, but to stand in awe of Him.  We’ll stand physically, but how is your posture spiritual?  When the world sees you outside of Sunday morning, do you stand in awe of Him? 

“Leaning on the Everlasting Arms” – 589

This old song will transition us from standing in awe of our Father to the realization that I can’t stand without Him.  And I’m not alone.  Each of us, when we’re truthful, know we must lean on His arms.  When we understand that (when we sing it), we’re in fellowship. holy holy holy

“Holy, Holy, Holy” – 47

This old hymn, sung to Him, echoes the scene from Revelation 4 as we sing around the throne of God.  ‘Holy, Holy, Holy!”  For our edification we’ll have the soprano sing the first verse and add each part as we sing each verse.  not to miss the message notice the third verse, “…tho (even though) the darkness hide Thee, Tho the eye of sinful man Thy glory can not see (even though sinful man can not see Your glory…only You are Holy).  Only Thou art holy, there is none beside Thee, perfect in power, in love and purity.”

“Must Jesus Bear the Cross Alone” – 319

As we consider the topic for this morning, and as we prepare our minds and hearts for the Lord’s Supper, we sing this about service.  Written over 300 years ago, this message calls believers to ‘take up the cross’ (Matt. 16) and serve!  Jesus carried the cross so we could see resurrection day.  Are we willing to “deny himself (ourselves), take up his (our) cross and follow Me” (Jesus)?

“Beneath the Cross” – 314

“Beneath the Cross of Jesus I fain would take my stand…”  Do you know what you’re singing?  What did you mean when you said I would “fain” take my stand beneath Jesus’ cross?  The poetry is saying, ‘I’m glad to stand up for the death of Jesus.’  What about, “O safe and happy shelter, O refuge tried and sweet, O trysting place where heaven’s love and heaven’s justice meet.”  Trysting place…what is that mean?  By definition; an agreed upon place where two come together.  In this song, heaven’s love and heaven’s justice met at Calvary.

“I Want to Be a Worker” – no book

Before our lesson this morning it seems only fitting to sing about being a worker.  How we will work is our own, individual decision.  The verses give us some suggestions; “I want to be a worker (who will) love and trust His holy word…I want to be a worker every day…I want to be a worker strong and brave.”  The chorus is our proclamation, “I will work, I will pray in the vineyard of the Lord!”

“Where He Leads Me I Will Follow” – 876

Not under compulsion, but willingly do we sing this song, “Where He leads me I will follow…”  A simple song that indicates my life in Christ, my work in His kingdom, is not compelled but committed.

“To the Work, To the Work” – no book

We’ll conclude our together with a song that encourages us to get out there and get to work.  We’re not made to bear His cross and we don’t have to ‘do our chores’, but as ‘servants of God’, disciples of Christ, we must be committed!  The chorus is a beautiful echo of unity, “Toiling on, toiling on…let us hope, trust, watch, pray and labor till the Master comes.” Christ will return and we’ll either be serving because we had to, or because we wanted to.

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I’m Dreaming of…

white christmasIn January, 1940, Irving Berlin penned the words to a song we have heard and sung during Christmas for years.  The words are simple and the message couldn’t be clearer; “I’m dreaming of a white Christmas, just like the ones I used to know.  Where the tree tops glisten and children listen to hear sleigh bells in the snow…”  The song was recorded and topped the charts in the winter of 1942 (the year following the attack on Pearl Harbor).  In a few short years, 1954, Bing Crosby made this a classic, all-time favorite in the movie “White Christmas.” Perhaps the mix of melancholy – “just like the ones I used to know” – with comforting images of home – “where the treetops glisten” – gives an understanding of missing home.  It’s easy to see how this song could resonated so strongly with listeners during World War II.  You understand when you remember that during this time thousands of young men were scattered across the world, far from home, fighting for our freedom.  The sentiment expressed in the song propelled it’s success. 

For all practical purposes, the words are saying, “I’m dreaming of being home.”  Ask most any college student and he or she will tell you how good it is to be home after months away.  Even when we grow older and have families of our own, there is something about ‘going home’ that swells within our hearts.  But what about that feeling of longing to be ‘home’ with Christ?  Do we think about/Do we long to be home with Him?  Paul sums it up best in the first chapter in the book of Philippians; “…I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better;” (NAS)  Paul is talking about dying (though not suicidal) and going ‘home’ to heaven, as opposed to living on in this life and serving in the kingdom of God.  He understood that when this life is over (when the battle is won), God has reserved a place for His children.

As we enjoy this Christmas season and sing songs of peace and home, remember the home that is waiting for the children of God.  Would that we all be dreaming of that home!  Enjoy this song of the season and let it warm your heart.  Our “Christmas Song of the Day”…I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas.   

 

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Breath of Heaven

God’s word is complete and gives us all we need for salvation in Christ Jesus.  We know the scripture is ‘God breathed’ and we are secure in following His word.  Still there are some things within its pages that we don’t know.  Questions like, what was Jesus like as a child?  And, question markwhatever happened to Joseph (Jesus’ earthly father)?  Or, how did Mary cope with the news of her first pregnancy?  We only know what we read in the scripture, but many have tried to fill in the blanks to these questions.

In 1993 Ken Young penned the words to a song we have sung hundreds of times before the Lord’s Supper, Thomas’ Song.  Written from the view point of the apostle Thomas (doubting Thomas) we get a man’s interpretation as to what Thomas may have been feeling after learning of Christ’s resurrection. John 20:25-28 gives us the exact account, but we often like to imagine what Thomas might have said, “Jesus, You were all to me, why did You die on Calvary?  O Lamb of God I fail to see how this could be part of the plan.  If I could only hold your hand…”

In similar fashion, Amy Grant and Chris Eaton teamed up produce a song mirroring the possible thoughts and prayingfeelings of Mary, the mother of Jesus.  How did she feel carrying the Son of God?  Was she confused and scared, or was she excited and confident?  We only know what we read in the scriptures (Luke 1:26-38).  There we read, “Mary was greatly troubled…” (vs. 29) and her questioning, “How will this be…?” (vs. 34) as well as her humble acknowledgment, “I am the Lord’s servant…”.  And yet, as we continue in this passage, we read she had more to say.  She said,“My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for He has been mindful of the humble state of His servant.  From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me – holy is His name.” (vs. 46-49)

Was she uncertain? Perhaps. Was she grateful? Certainly.  But would that we all draw some encouragement as Mary might well have silently prayed that God would be with her.  This ‘Christmas hymn’ recognizes that God’s breath gives life (Genesis 1) and as the resurrected Messiah ‘breathed on His disciples’ (John 20:22), so Mary may have longed for God to give her the breath of heaven.

Enjoy this acapella version of a relatively new, popular Christmas song. Remember to check back later this month as we explore more ‘seasonal’ favorites.  This “Christmas Song of the Day”…Mary’s Song (Breath of Heaven).


I have traveled many moonless nights Cold and weary with a babe inside
And I wonder what I’ve done Holy Father you have come
And chosen me now To carry your son

I am waiting in a silent prayer I am frightened by the load I bear
In a world as cold as stone Must I walk this path alone

Be with me now Be with me now[Chorus:]
Breath of heaven Hold me together
Be forever near me Breath of heaven
Breath of heaven Lighten my darkness
Pour over me your holiness For you are holy Breath of heaven Do you wonder as you watch my face If a wiser one should have had my place
But I offer all I am For the mercy of your plan
Help me be strong Help me be Help me
[Chorus:]
Breath of heaven Hold me together
Be forever near me Breath of heaven
Breath of heaven Lighten my darkness
Pour over me your holiness For you are holy Breath of heaven
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All Things According to the Pattern…Nov. 24th

A pattern is necessary if you want to duplicate the original.  If I want to ‘make it right,’ I have to follow the pattern.  But just because I have a pattern doesn’t mean I automatically have a duplicate.  Without following the directions, the pattern will be flawed and far from effective.

patternAny seamstress knows the importance of following the pattern.  And yet many who ‘fear God’ often fail to remember that basic principle when it comes to living Christian lives.  Many will say they want to follow God’s teaching (the Word), but don’t want to be ‘bound’ by a pattern.  Free will and exploring God on my own might be the ‘new way’, but even Moses was instructed, “See to it that you make everything according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.”  Hebrews 8:5 


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

Sunday morning, November 24, 2013

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“In Moments Like These” 239

If we are honest with ourselves, there are times when we feel closer to God than other times.  What causes this feeling of joy and fulfillment?  What gives us that emotional lift as opposed to the times when we’re feeling down?  Circumstances can change in life, but our God never changes.  When you do find yourself feeling God’s love and strength, sing a song of praise.  But when you’re not…sing these words; “In moments like these, I lift up my voice; singing I love you, Lord.”

“Is It For Me?” – 483

An old hymn that asks a simple question, “Is it for me…?”  The peace and rest of heave, the welcome to ‘enter in’ heaven’s glory.  We sing this question, but let the message of the refrain echo in your heart as we praise the Father and the Son, “O Savior, my Redeemer, what can I but adore (what else is worthy of praise), and magnify (glorify) and praise Thee and love Thee…forever more?”  Never forget that the glory and rest of heaven is for all those who die to Christ…and yes, it is for me!

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

A contemporary song that isn’t really asking the question, ‘How deep is the Father’s love’, but one that is sung to how-deep-the-fathers-love-for-usconfirm what we already believe and know.  God’s love for us is so deep and vast we can’t begin to measure it. How great the pain must have been for both the Father and the Son, but the objective was clear, to ‘bring many sons to glory.’  We continue this song as we ‘behold the man upon the cross’ and clearly recognize our sins.  Think in your mind back to the mocking voices (Luke 23:25-38) as they stood at the foot of the cross.  Why should I gain from His sacrifice?  I don’t know the answer to that question.  “But this I know with all my heart, His wounds have paid my ransom.’

“Abide with Me” – 808

A song that is popular during the closing hours of one’s life.  A hymn pleading for God to abide with us during these dark, lonely hours.  We’ll sing this song following the Lord’s Supper, but we’ll focus on the fourth verse as we sing; “Hold Thou Thy cross before my closing eyes; shine through the gloom, and point me to the skies; heaven’s morning breaks, and earth’s vain shadows flee: in life and in death, O Lord, abide with me.”

“Restore My Soul” – no book

A strong, upbeat song that asked God to restore our spirit, revive the fire of our souls and renew our courage to live for the Savior.  “Renew my love, rebuild my faith and restore my soul.”  Perhaps some will find it repetitive, but what a message to ask for strength as we express our “desire to work in His fold…”

“Sing to Me of Heaven” – 716

Almost 100 years old, this spiritual song is sung encouraging the Christian to remember the joy of heaven.  The traps (toils) that bind us on this earth will be loosened as we encourage each other to keep looking to the pattern and the hope of eternal life with Christ!

“Softly and Tenderly” – 934

An ‘invitation song’ that has been around since the late-1800’s calls the wandering sinner to turn back to God. Visions of the stubborn child who has run away from home are seen as we plead for those who are weary to come back and rest.  To emphasize the message, there is a sense of urgency in the third verse; don’t you realize time is now fleeting and the moments are passing…? Come on, come home!

“True Hearted, Whole Hearted” – 629town crier

“Peal out the watch word!”  Almost like the town crier who is standing on the street corner announcing the ‘good news’, so we too should be true to our devotion to God and share His message.  Or more likely, we should be shouting out the song of our spirits if we are truly rejoicing and free.  This is truly a song of victory if we are true to His Word and follow the pattern given to us in the scripture.

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The Silence of the Lambs…September 22nd

Fearful of their surroundings, an unlikely threesome walk down a brick road chanting the infamous, “Lions and Tigers and Bears, O my…” They feared what many consider vicious predators.  Animals whose character is powerful and lions-tigers-bearsruthless.  It’s true, some of God’s creatures are not to be trifled with; but on the other hand, some are extremely passive and best described as vulnerable.  So why would the Son of God be classified as one of these?  Isaiah will describe Him as, ‘a lamb led to slaughter.’  Non-aggressive and defenseless is a good description for a lamb.

A silent lamb led to its shearers is the way Isaiah describes Christ.  Not kicking back, roaring or ‘fighting to the end.’  Mark states clearly at Christ’s ‘trial’ that He, “…kept silent and did not answer.”  Join us this coming Sunday morning at Waterview church of Christ as we’ll be looking at the innocent and un-protesting Lamb of God.

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

Sunday morning, September 22, 2013

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

 “We Praise Thee, O God”

This is a wonderful, old hymn that dates back to the days before our country’s Civil War; a song that transcends time and brings ecstasy to the singer and listener alike.  Though penned more than 150 years ago, it still as a powerful message.  The first two verses begin, “We praise Thee, O God,”  while the next two verses begin, “All glory and praise…”  Beautiful words of exclamation, but least we lose sight of what we’re singing we conclude the chorus (and being the final verse) with the phrase, “Revive us again…”

“The Old Rugged Cross”

Some hymn writers have a wide collection of songs they’ve written over the years.  Authors and composers like Isaac Watts, Fanny J. Crosby, Albert Brumley, William Doane and Tillet S. Teddlie to name a few.  But for one man, George Bennard, his call to fame came in one song and one song alone, ‘The Old Rugged Cross.’  What a message of salvation from the pen of this man who turns our minds back in time to, ‘a hill far away’ as we remember the cross of Christ.

 “Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross”

The third verse of this song will be sung between the bread and the fruit of the vine as we consider coming near the cross.  The plea for us to visualize our Lord’s death on the cross comes as we sing, “Near the cross! O Lamb of God, bring its scenes before me…”  Maybe some would rather not focus on that scene.  It was a murder scene and one that was graphic as you think about his hands, feet and side.  Not to mention the crown of thorns.  We need to stay near the cross because all that pain and sorrow was on our account.  He died for you and me.

“Worthy is the Lamb”

We’ve sung this before as we take the tune from Just As I Am and put it to some words and thoughts found around the throne of God in the book of Revelation.  When we can sing the scripture (a psalm) it makes for stronger understand of the text.  But when the words we sing are noted as having been sung around the throne of God…now that’s powerful.  We’ll sing: “You alone are worthy to open its seals, because You were slain and gave Your blood.  You purchased every man for God O worthy is the Lamb.”  Revelation 5:9 reads: “Worthy are You to worthy-is-the-lambtake the book and to break its seals; for You were slain, and purchased for God with Your blood men from every tribe and tongue and people and nation.”

“You Are My All in All”

“Jesus, Lamb of God, worthy is Your name!”  We’ll sing this contemporary song as we consider where our strength comes from, and what types of treasures we truly are seeking.  Interestingly enough how many people really believe what they say in that first verse; “Lord, to give up I’d be a fool…”  Defined:  ‘A person lacking judgment’…giving up on God is not only foolish, it’s life threatening.

 “Lamb of God”

The scripture reading just before this song is Isaiah 53:7, “…and like a sheep that is silent before its shearers, so He did not open His mouth.”  This inspired prophecy of Christ’s trial and crucifixion is captured by Isaiah the prophet, and we’ll follow it as we sing, “O Lamb of God, sweet Lamb of God…”

 “I Will Sing of My Redeemer”

This song has an interesting chorus, “Sing, O sing of my redeemer, Sing O sing of my Redeemer; with His blood He purchased me, with His blood He purchased me, on the cross He sealed my pardon, on the cross He sealed my pardon, paid the debt and made me free and made me free, and made me free.”  How often we sing, but fall short of listening to what we’re singing.  Why repeat these words?  Is it just for filler, or to enhance the harmony?  Maybe we just like the way we’re echoing the ladies part?  Or is there something more?  Maybe it’s important enough that it’s worth repeating…for emphasis.  Yes, I’ll sing!

 “Redeemed”

The song before our lesson, has a strong upbeat tempo.  But in case you haven’t noticed, this song uses the word ‘redeemed’ a total of 7 times…in the first verse alone.  How thankful are we for the redemption we have in Christ.  Because of the blood of the Lamb of God I can sing that I am, “…His child, and forever, I am.”

“Have You Been to Jesus?”       

An invitation, in its purest form, is a question.  Will you come to the party?  We send drop of bloodinvitations to ask for a response to our questions.  Each Sunday the preacher ‘offers the invitation’ for those who will respond to come to Christ.  How fitting, as we have sung and talked about the Lamb of God, that we would ask the question; “Have you been to Jesus for the cleansing power; are you walking daily by the Savior’s side…are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?”  How will you answer (have you answered) the invitation?

 “We Will Glorify”

A contemporary song that proclaims what the people of God long to do…we want to (we will) glorify our God!  How often we sing with spirit and truth, but remember we must sing with understanding too.  This first verse alone gives glory to the King of Kings, the Lamb and the Lord of Lords.  But did you notice the last line of this verse (and the fourth)…?  Who is the Great I Am!  That’s not a question asking who the great I Am is, it’s a statement that the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords and the Lamb are all the great I Am…

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Before the Throne of God

william bradbury

William Bradbury lived during the mid-1800’s (1816-1868) and wrote the music for some well known hymns sung by the saints for generations.  Songs like ” ‘Tis Midnight and On Olive’s Brow”, “He Leadeth Me” and “My Hope is Built on Nothing Less”.  Other favorites like “Just As I Am” and “Soldier’s of Christ, Arise” are all the musical work of William Bradbury.  Perhaps one of his most noted, recognizable tunes was written in 1862 to support the simple words penned by Anna B. Warner, “Jesus Loves Me”.

 

Some may remember the old hymn from W. W. Walford entitled, “Sweet Hour of Prayer”.  This is another musical arrangement from the hand of William Bradbury.  But there was yet another song (same, long meter) which took the same tune with the following words:
{sing these words to “Sweet Hour of Prayer”}before the throne of god

Before the throne of God above,
I have a strong and perfect plea:
A great High Priest whose name is love,
Who ever lives and pleads for me.
My name is graven on His hands.
My name is written on His heart.
I know that while in heav’n He stands.
No tongue can bid me hence depart.

Though you might not be familiar with these words accompanying “Sweet Hour of Prayer”, you might be familiar with these words as they accompany a tune written by Vikki Cook in 1997.  A songwriter and composer, Vikki Cook and her husband Steve have written numerous contemporary songs.  One of her more popular hymns is known as “Holy Lord” or “Great Are You, Lord”.

Listen to this old hymn (penned in 1863) sung to an arrangement developed over 120 years later.  The words are strong as you translate the Old English poetry, but the musical arrangement brings new life to a beautiful, old message.  Before the throne of God I stand…