Category: Heaven

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God With Us…Part One

John 1...1Part 1 of 2…Immanuel; God with Us!

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.  He was in the beginning with God…And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:1, 2, 14

Incarnation, by simple definition is, “God in the flesh!”  The scripture explains it, and for years we have sung about it.  Perhaps you’ll remember some of these old hymns:

  • Come Thou Almighty King (“Come, Thou incarnate Word…”)
  • Hark! The Herald Angels Sing (“…veiled in flesh the Godhead see;hail the incarnate Deity; pleased as man with men to dwell, Jesus, our Immanuel…”)
  • One Day (“…one day when sin was a black as could be, Jesus came forth to be born of a virgin, dwelt among men, my example is He!”)
  • We Saw Thee Not (“We saw Thee not when Thou dids’t come to this poor world of sin and death, nor yet beheld Thy cottage home, in that despised Nazareth…”)we believe

So how do we explain such a miracle in time?  Certainly numerous questions come to mind when we consider incarnation.  “How can God become flesh?”  “What is the natural, logical property involved with incarnation?”  Read the words of God as we consider this holy phenomenon.  Paul writes in Colossians 3:9, “For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form…”  Earlier in Colossians, Paul confirms the supremacy of Christ, “He is the image of the invisible God, the first born of all creation.” (Colossians 1:15)  Jesus the Christ was not 50% god and 50% man.  He came to earth 100% divine and 100% flesh.  Though the ‘logical properties’ may be unknown to us, for the believer we have blessed assurance that this mystery of Godliness is great.  We believe that He still came to earth, and everything we need to know about salvation and reconciliation with God is found in Christ Jesus.  We wasn’t born in palace as would be expected of royalty, his birth was in a lowly stable.  Royal recognition was gone and He came to experience royal rejection even by His kinsmen (Mark 3:21).  But still…He came.  The video below is a song from Donna Douglas and Pam Thumb that proclamations our faith. Listen to the message as you read the words.

Do we truly understand the sacrifice Jesus made in becoming our Immanuel?  “He left all heaven’s glory to fulfill the Father’s plan.”  A plan that was necessary for our salvation.  We might sing about it and we might know it’s ramifications, but do we truly appreciate it?  There was no out, no substitute as we read in Hebrews 9, “For this reason He is the mediator of a new covenant, so that, since a death has taken place for the redemption of the transgressions that were committed under the first covenant, those who have been called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance. For where a covenant is, there must of necessity be the death of the one who made it.  For a covenant is valid only when men are dead…” (NAS)  But as the song continues, “…the hope of what He offered so out weighed what must be done.”  We have a means by which we are saved; through the incarnation of Jesus Christ.  His death, burial and resurrection.

The follow up to this study (part 2) will explore the “WHY” behind the incarnation.
Look for part 2 in late May, 2013…

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Asking Directions on the Way to Canaan…April 28th

At Waterview church of Christ, we are dedicated to studying, learning and following God’s word.  Robert Oglesby will present a message this morning that is designed to help us focus on our ‘journey’ to heaven.

Branson Trip SunriseHow much thought do you give to your ultimate destination?  Is heaven just an assumed ‘next step’ or is it there something we should be preparing for?  Whether our skies are clear, or overcast, we know our goal. The children of God, struggled on their journey to the Promise Land (40 years worth of struggles), yet this morning, consider the questions we ask as we’re Bound for the Promised Land.

 

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

Sunday morning, April 28, 2013

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

“The Steadfast Love of the Lord” – 123

This psalm is the text as we sing the praises found in Lamentations 3:22-24, “The Lord’s loving kindness indeed never ceases, for His compassion’s never fail.  They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness. ‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘Therefore I will hope in Him.’ So what do you mean when you sing, ‘The Lord is my portion…’?  By definition, a portion can be an inheritance…

lost in thought

 

“Sing On, Ye Joyful Pilgrims” – 747

Have you ever been ‘lost in thought?’  Someone asks you a question, but your mind was somewhere else?  In the chorus of this ‘spiritual song’ we sing… “My heart is filled with rapture (extreme joy), my soul is lost in praise.”  Of all things we could be wrapped up in (lost in), how much more worthy to be lost in praise.  It makes sense that we would…sing on, ye joyful pilgrims!


“The Lord’s Supper” – no book

The title of this song lets the singer/listener know what we’re focused on.  Another title you might use to find this ‘psalm’ would be ‘When We Meet in Sweet Communion’.  We remember the Lord’s death as we communion together around the table and obey His words, “…do this in remembrance of Me.” (I Corinthians 11:24)

“By Christ Redeemed” – 366

We find the basis of this spiritual song in I Corinthians 11:26, “For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.” We have an obligations, an honor, to partake in this memorial of our Savior for as long as we live…or until He comes!

“There is a Redeemer” – 287

We sing the affirmation of this contemporary hymn/spiritual song as we proclaim, “There is a Redeemer, Jesus, God’s own Son…”  Melody Green wrote, and we sing, a song of thanks to God.  “Thank You for giving us Your Son and leaving with us the gift of the Holy Spirit…until our work is done.”  How are you doing with YOUR work?

“Here We Are But Straying Pilgrims” – 537

I enjoy singing in unison the verses of this song, then blend our voices in the chorus with a full, 4-part harmony.  But don’t get caught up in the music and miss the message.  Does your path seem dim or are your feet weary?  Have you ever thought of the clouds of doubt and fear as a ‘lurking foe?’  Just remember that the Lord is our defender, and know that singing a song of heaven will cheer your way.  Why…because “Yonder over the rolling river…soon will be our home, forever!”

“We’re Marching to Zion” – 869

As a medley with the previous song, this ‘spiritual song’ call those that love the Lord to come, and let our joys been made known.  In other words, let’s sing so the world will know that we love God, and we’re living so we can go to heaven (we’re marching to Zion).

“I Am Bound for the Promised Land” – 889

The words of this song were written by Samuel Stennett in 1787, but don’t mistake it with “On Jordan’s Stormy Banks I Stand” (page 886).  Though the message is over 225 years old, it’s still true for us today… “I’m bound for the Promised Land…”

“When Upon Life’s Billows” – 742

Also known as “Count Your Many Blessings”, this song by Johnson Oatman in 1897 encourages us to recognize how God impacts our lives.  Whether we’re tossed on the sea of life, discouraged thinking ‘all is lost’ or feeling as though the cares and doubts of life burden us, do you see the blessings of God?  If you’ll count the blessings God has given you, it will surprise you to know what the Lord had done?

“God Bless You, Go with God” – 752

We’ll close our morning services as we sing to admonish one another, “God bless you, go with God.”   We understand this cruel world will test us and hurl lies at us, but the only hope we have is in Christ.  Let’s sing to encourage each other and always be praying for each other.  This is my daily prayer…that God will bless you and that you will go with God!

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A Roller Coaster Ride!

Personally, the best description for the last few days of March, 2013 would be a roller-coaster ride!roller coaster

Emotions were flowing as we learned of my daddy’s passing on Saturday afternoon, March 23rd.  Then within forty-eight hours, we spent sixteen hours traveling to Kansas and back for his graveside service.  Though visiting with family was a blessing, laying the patriarch of our family to rest was difficult at best.  The next forty-eight hours brought us to the annual LTC convention in Dallas (Leadership Training for Christ).  An exciting, busy but certainly focused weekend for more than 1,000 saints in down-town Dallas.  But the month of March was still not over; our youngest son decided he was ready to put Christ on in baptism…at 10:30 PM Saturday night, March 30th!  An exhilarating lift as we continued to ride ‘the roller coaster.’  Oh wait, the next afternoon following morning services, my oldest drove back to Tennessee to resume the last two months of his freshman year.  His first time to drive 9 hours…alone.  If you could see the calendar of events and feel the emotional twisting and turning, you’d know these past few weeks have been a roller coaster ride.

So how does one put this in to prospective?  Any time we lose a family member, we hurt; and anytime a lost sheep is found, we rejoice.  When you feel those two strong emotions within a matter of days you realize priorities have to be set.  What is most important and where do I put my focus?

One of the blessings we experienced at the memorial of my daddy was the assurance of his faith, and gentle hand of sympathy from brothers and sisters in Christ.  Four of his grandson’s lead the singing and read scripture, while several others shared thoughts of encouragement.  But as we closed the service we all joined in singing some songs of praise and inspiration.  We closed the service with the song, “Softly and Tenderly”.  The message was perfect as we sang about ‘coming home’ and in respect to my dad’s passing…I believe he was on his way home.  But then as I considered my son’s baptism I realized that he too began his journey as he decided he was ready to ‘come home’.  Each of these events, though separated by two different extremes, bring my mind toward what’s most important.  Do we listen as Jesus is calling us home?

“Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling,
Calling for you and for me;
See, on the portals He’s waiting and watching,
Watching for you and for me.”

Refrain:
“Come home, come home,
Ye who are weary, come home;
Earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling,
Calling, O sinner, come home!”

This song is a wonderful call for the sinner, the lost lamb, to come back to the fold of God.  And I certainly saw the implications as I realized my son was indeed turning his mind to follow Jesus and come home.  But as we remembered the passing of our daddy, the third verse of this song rings true.  Grim as it may be…it is so true…

“Time is now fleeting, the moments are passing,
Passing for you and for me;
Shadows are gathering, deathbeds are coming,
Coming for you and for me.”Dillons baptism...3.30.13

Roller coasters are certain to come into our lives…whether we want them to or not.  The question we must ask is how will we ride?  Many enjoy the thrill of the lift while others hold on tight.  We know there will be times when we cry out and wish the track would level off.  But the best advise is to find the excitement at every turn and hold on tight!  Know the ride will soon be over and the ups and downs will eventually level off.  Take comfort in remembering Christ is at the controls of life.  He knows your fears and He sees your tears.  And when we come to give Him our lives, even the angels rejoice.  Our Savior is pleading for us all to come home…softly and tenderly.

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Does Anyone Know?…April 7th

Sunday morning, April 7th at Waterview church of Christ, we’ll be honored to hear a lesson from Kent Allen.  Brother Allen is VP for Advancement for Oklahoma Christian University, and his message is sure to inspire us as we consider our outward display of faith.

make a defense

Perhaps you’ve heard the comment; if you were on trial for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?  This morning we’ll consider just how much the world knows about OUR faith in God.  We have the opportunity, better yet the obligation, to show Christ to a lost and dying world.  The songs this morning are designed to make us think about our shining light.

 

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.”

I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, April 7, 2013

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

“Christ for the World We Sing” – 626

Have you looked closely at the first line in all three verses of this song?  Notice: “Christ for the world!”  That’s a statement we loudly proclaim and boldly sing.  And we sing it with 1) loving zeal, 2) with fervent prayer and 3) in one accord.  We sing this message to the world, but we also have a responsibility to bring the world to Christ.

“We Will Glorify” – 578

Written over 30 years ago, this song is still contemporary to many of us. Twila Paris made it popular, but our God is the reason we sing it.  Perhaps the closing statement from the first and fourth verses needs more examination and great proclamation; “…the Lord of lords, Who is the great I AM.”  John 8:58 “Jesus said to them, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was born, I Am.”

“In My Life, Lord, Be Glorified” – 309

Before we bow in prayer, we’ll sing this hymn as we sing to Him!  The first verse is very personal, “In my life, Lord, be glorified…” but in the second verse we’ll change it to the plural form, “In our songs, Lord, be glorified…”  And finally we’ll close the song to include the Lord’s church; “In Your church, Lord, be glorified…”

“Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus” – 648

Brother Kent Allen has requested this song to serve as our ‘song before the lesson.’  What a great way to admonish each other to live a life that puts Christ first.  Have you thought about this song lately?  We are singing about the armor of God (Ephesians 6), and in the third verse we’re reminded of the weakness we have in the flesh; “…Stand in HIS strength alone; the arm of flesh will fail you, ye dare not trust your own”  But what does the author mean when he writes, “…put on the gospel armor; and watching unto prayer…”  Remember, ‘unto’ is a preposition that can mean ‘by’.  So with that in mind; we have on the armor of God and we’re waiting (watching) by means of prayer.  See Ephesians 6:18, “With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert…”

“In the Hour of Trial” – 767

Not a typical ‘invitation song’, but this will serve us well this morning.  Take a close look at verse one; “…Jesus plead for me, lest by base denial I depart from Thee; When Thou seest me waiver, with a look recall…”  Remember Luke 22 when Christ is on trial?  Peter adamantly denies knowing Jesus (base denial, as an adjective, ‘base’ can mean ‘contemptible’) and then in Luke 22:61, “The Lord turned and looked at Peter.  And Peter remembered the word of the Lord…”.  With a look recall (help me to remember)…

“Lamb of God” – 176lamb for the slaughter

We’ll remember the Lord’s supper this morning after our lesson as we sing this beautiful song, again written by Twila Paris.  A song that we sing to our Father (a hymn).  God’s gift of love (the Lamb of God) is crucified for our sins.  He is scorned, mocked, defamed…and sacrificed.  “Like a lamb that is led to slaughter” (Isaiah 53:7) “I love the holy Lamb of God.”

“O For a Faith That Will Not Shrink” – 540

As we close the service this morning, remember our lesson; “Does Anyone Know (you’re a Christian)?  The words of this song were written by W. H. Bathurst in 1831.  Oh that we would all have a faith in God that doesn’t shrink away in difficult times.  A faith that doesn’t complain or ‘whine’ when troubles come.  A faith that shines more bright and clear.  With this kind of faith, even while here on earth, we’ll ‘taste the bliss’ of heaven.

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We’re Marching and Singing to Zion…Pt 3

As this three part study comes to a close, perhaps the strongest reminder of how we are to sing comes when we consider the words of the author of Hebrews.

When we sing songs of praise we are offering a sacrifice to God.  Hebrews 13:15, ‘…let us continually offer a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name.’  Singing songs of praise, ‘the fruit of lips’ is our giving to God a sacrifice of praise. (Hebrews 2:12)  What kind of a sacrifice are you offering?  Before you answer, let me remind you of Leviticus 10:1-3.  During the offering of sacrifices in the Old Testament, Nadab and Abihu offered ‘strange fire’ before the Lord.  These two men, sons of Aaron, violated God’s command for sacrifices and were subsequently struck down.  Notice how Moses responded to this tragedy… “It is what the Lord spoke, saying, ‘By those who come near Me I will be treated as holy, and before all the people I will be honored.”  We must ask ourselves, ‘When I’m singing on Sunday morning, what kind of sacrifice am I offering God?’  Do I sing and listen for my own satisfaction?  Am I honestly thinking about what I’m singing?  My prayer is for God’s people everywhere to stop and think about our singing in worship.  Let’s sing with the Spirit!

Standing with our brothers and sisters in Christ and opening our minds and hearts (not to mention our voices), we might sing another hymn penned more than 300 years ago; “Praise God from whom all blessings flow. Praise Him all creatures here below. Praise Him above, ye heavenly host.  Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost!”  Doxology is a simple song of praise to our God and Father and echoes our soul’s unquestionable need to praise our Creator.  As Christ entered Jerusalem in Luke 19, just days before His arrest, the crowds praised Him saying, “Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord; Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” Hearing this praise, some of the Pharisees, approached Jesus and told Him to reprimand and silence His followers.  But notice His response; “I tell you, if these become silent, the stones will cry out!”  In short…we were made to give praise to God. If we refuse to, His creation will sing it out.  If you’re not sure about that, read Psalm 148 (or sing “Hallelujah, Praise Jehovah”).  Though many might ignore our God-given need to praise Him, and while many more may offer excuses as to why they’re not singing praises to God, remember Romans 14:11, “…Every knee shall bow to Me, and every tongue shall give praise to God.”Mt. Hayden

As brothers and sisters in Christ we remember that we’re singing and ‘marching to Zion’. Consider the second verse of this spiritual song; “Let those refuse to sing who never knew our God; but children of the heavenly King may speak their joys abroad.” Some don’t know the joy that comes in being a child of God.  Their refusal to sing is out of ignorance.  But those of us who are ‘children of the heavenly King’ must be ready and willing to speak (to sing) our joys abroad.  You and I know as we are marching, we’re also singing along the way to Zion.

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The Extra ‘Last’ Mile

In Matthew 5, Jesus tells us how far we should be willing to go.  Not only for those who are kind and deserving, but also for those who you are not deserving.
Read the following scripture:

selfishness“…if anyone wants to sue you, and take your shirt, let him have your coat also. (not exactly a friendly encounter) And whoever shall force (not ask) you to go one mile, go with him two.”  How could our Lord and Savior expect us to do kind things to someone who is attacking and forcing us with a selfish attitude?  Does it make sense that we should just ‘roll over’ and give in to the demands of a cruel, somewhat childish, but most certainly domineering personality?  In this same passage Jesus says in verse 39…“But I tell you, do not resist and evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.”  How does God expect us to just stand around and be a punching bag to a violent, egocentrically strong-arm?  Will your conscience let you do that?

Remember I Corinthians 10:13, “No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not let you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.”  This should give us confidence to know that even when things are hard to understand, God will help us overcome difficult circumstances.  When we are ‘forced’ to go the extra mile, we do it because of Christ’s example.

In 1908, Johnson Oatman wrote a song that reminds me of going the extra mile.  The chorus resounds with the title, “When I’ve gone the last mile of the way, I will rest at the close of the day, and I know there are joys that await me when I’ve gone the last mile of the way.”  Notice each verse as the song builds; we consider working daily (vs.1), to seeking the lost (vs 2), all the way to the end of this physical life (vs 3) and final till we reach the hope of eternal life (vs. 4).

“If I walk in the pathway of duty, red river day 5 (part 2) 005
if I work till the close of the day,
I shall see the great King in His beauty
when I’ve gone the last mile of the way.


If for Christ I proclaim the glad story,
if I seek for His sheep gone astray,
I am sure He will show me His glory
when I’ve gone the last mile of the way.


Here the dearest of ties we must sever,
tears of sorrow are seen every day;
but no sickness, no sighing forever
when I’ve gone the last mile of the way.


And if here I have earnestly striven
and have tried all His will to obey,
’twill (it will) enhance all the rapture (joy) of heaven
when I’ve gone the last mile of the way.”

In a life that is filled with difficulties and hardships, all the while laced with seemingly unfair circumstances, we often wonder why we must go any further.  Why shouldn’t we stand up and say enough is enough.  Perhaps our answer comes in the 12th chapter of Hebrews, “…consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”  Do you feel like the extra mile is too much for you?  So how far are you willing to go?  What is your breaking point?  Will you truly go the extra mile?  If you will honestly walk in the pathway of duty, and if you will truly work till the close of the day you can rest assured there are joys that await you when you’ve gone the last mile of the way!

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GIGO…March 3rd

examine 1My prayer for those who are reading this to be drawn closer to understanding the purpose we share on Sunday morning.  We come together and worship God, we come to offer a sacrifice of praise and to join together as we commemorate our Lord’s death, burial and resurrection. This coming Sunday morning (March 3rd) we’ll examine our hearts and see if what comes out of our heart is reflective of what is going into our mind. We’ll sing on Sunday morning, but will your words reflect your heart…or will you be singing from a routine practiced over the years?

Sunday morning, March 3, 2013

Our sermon topic on Sunday is entitled, “GIGO”, what does that mean?  Join us Sunday morning or check out the lesson on Waterview’s website [LINK] Sunday afternoon.  Those who are familiar with this website know the following is an account of our order of worship.  All song numbers are from the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“Holy Ground Medley” – 99, 100 & 101

The editors of our hymnal (Faith & Praise) chose to place the songs In His Presence, Holy Ground (by Beatty) and Holy Ground (by Davis) as a predesigned medley. Many have sung this collection of songs and the message is a powerful reminder of the holiness of God.  We begin by focusing on the environment we find when ‘in the presence of God’…comfort, peace and assurance.  The medley continues as we recognize being in His presence. Remember Moses (Exodus 3) as he was standing ‘on holy ground.’  Ken Young added the second verse of Beatty’s song when he wrote; “You are holy, God, a perfect and holy God. We will come before You with hearts made clean by Jesus’ blood.” We come to worship our Father, and together we are standing on Holy Ground.

“Why Did My Savior Come to Earth” – 382

The question is asked with this spiritual song, why?  Why did Jesus come to earth and choose the birth of a lowly peasant born in a stable?   And why would our Savior choose to die such a cruel, painful death and be lifted up for all to see…and scorn?  The answer is repeated three times in the chorus (7 times if you count the echo in the refrain) “He loves me so much that He gave His precious life for me…”  Now transition to the next song.

“How Deep the Father’s Love” – no booksoldier at the cross

A contemporary song that isn’t asking the question “How deep is the Father’s love,” but one that is sung to confirm what we already realize.  God’s love for us is so deep, and vast we can’t 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 23:35-38) as they stood at the foot of the cross?  In poetry we sing, “…ashamed I hear my mocking voice call out among the scoffers.”

Following the Lord’s Supper we’ll revisit the third verse from these two songs.  We asked earlier, “Why did my Savior come to earth…” and then again “…Why should I gain from His reward?”  Do you remember the next line, “I cannot give an answer, but this I know with all my heart, His wounds have paid my ransom.”  Before we conclude this medley, let’s us sing…“Till Jesus comes I sing His praise, and then to glory go…”

“Wonderful Words of Life” – 543

Prior to today’s lesson we’ll stand and sing this familiar melody from the late 1800’s.  Philip Bliss authored many songs (10 in the Faith and Praise hymnal), but this particular one captivates me as we sing verse 2, “Christ the blessed one gives to all, wonderful words of life.  Sinner, list (listen) to the loving call, wonderful words of life. All so freely given (these wonderful words), wooing us to heaven…”  What does it mean to woo something (someone)?  One definition; “To entreat, solicit, request…”  Notice; the ‘words of life’ are given as an attempt (if you will) to entreat us/call us to heaven.  Wonderful Words!

Examine Heart

“Is Thy Heart Right with God” – no book

How is your heart?  Not physically speaking, but spiritually speaking?  Is it right with God?  Too often I fear we self-diagnose our life in Christ and come away with faulty information.  If my affections (things I hold as most important) are not given up (sacrificed), or if I can’t ‘count all things…but loss’ (for Jesus), then will I ever be right with God?  Ask yourself this question and then make a change.  Perhaps you need to be washed in the crimson flood…

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

“From the dawn of the morning to close of day…”  What do people see in you?  How is your example, in both your actions and your words?  This song reminds me that I must lay all my gifts at His feet and think carefully about how I act toward others.  Can the beauty of Jesus be seen in me?

Join us each and every Sunday morning!

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A 50 Year Journey…Feb. 24th

OGLESBY-ROBERT-414Sunday morning, February 24th, Waterview church of Christ celebrates 50 years with Robert & Willora Oglesby.  Since the spring of 1963, Robert has been the pulpit preacher for this congregation of God’s people.  For that longevity of faithfulness we give God the glory.  As we sing today, our songs are intended to admonish and encourage the family as we bring before God our sacrifice of praise, the fruit of our lips (Hebrews 13:15).  Thanks be to God for working through Robert these past 50 years!

The following ‘order of worship’ is designed to focus our mind toward our worship to Him.  Think about the songs you sing in praise to God…

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

Sunday morning, February 24, 2013

You’ll notice the following songs come from the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

 

“Step By Step”, “Here We Are But Straying Pilgrims” & “He Has Made Me Glad” – 15, 537 & 103 respectively

This three song medley is a strong, upbeat blend using a hymn, spiritual song and psalm (can you tell which one is which…yes, I know there is some gray in the definition of each, but you get the idea).  We begin this morning proclaiming our faith in God and announcing that, ‘…I will follow You all of my days’.  Our second song in this medley encourages the saints to focus on heaven.  With the verses sung in unison, we sense the oneness of our journey home.  Finally, the last song in this medley is a quote from Psalm 100.  We come together with thanksgiving in our hearts…I’m glad to be worshiping with the saints!

“Til My Faith Becomes Sight” – 836

The second verse provides us the reminder of our reason for coming together this morning…“Lamb of God, dear hope of glory, Savior crucified, by Your blood I am redeemed my debt now satisfied…”  We must ‘keep our eyes’ on Jesus as we meet, communion and worship our King.

“‘Tis Set the Feast Divine” – no bookcross

Not in many of our hymnals, this song by L. O. Sanderson serves to prepare our minds (keep our minds) focused on the Savior and His death on the cross.  “May we the Lord discern…”  As we sing we’re asking that we all recognize and realize the death of Jesus is the only thing we need to concern ourselves with.  When we eat of the bread and drink of the cup…what are you thinking about?

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

Following the passing of the fruit of the vine, we’ll sing this old hymn by Thomas Cotterill written in 1805.  Notice the call for us to remember His love, and come before Him with a contrite heart.  How contrite (full of remorse) is your heart when you take of the Lord’s Supper?  We take the bread of life and the token cup of blood as we anticipate the ‘heavenly feast above’.

“This World is Not My Home” – 957

Do you ‘feel right at home’ when it comes to this world?  If you do I would recommend you reconsider your comfort zone.  We’ll sing here about our treasures being stored in heaven (Matthew 6:19) and not feeling at home in this world anymore.  The chorus is so strong; “…if heaven’s not my home, then Lord, what will I do?”  Remember this, without the hope of heaven we’re lost in an unfriendly world.

“Higher Ground” (Ken Young version) – no book

This revised, old song has become a Waterview favorite during the last 8-10 years.  The words haven’t changed, but the music has.  Same tune, but the 2nd verse brings a solid foundation of male voices singing, “Heart has no desire to stay where doubts arise and fears dismay.  Some may dwell where these abound my prayer my aim is higher ground…”  Notice what you just read/sang; My heart doesn’t want to stay here (this world is not my home) where there are doubts and fears that destroy our courage (dismay).  But even though some people seem to dwell in this type of circumstance ( where doubts and fears abound), my prayer and my aim is HIGHER GROUND!

“Let Me Live Close to Thee” – 831

Not a typical invitation song, but since we’re talking and thinking about our journey, this seems to fit our call for repentance, change and renewing.  How willing are you to ‘work and never shirk’ for your God.  Let’s all say (sing) we want to live close to Him each day.

“The Battle Belongs to the Lord” – no book

A contemporary song that proclaims the victory belongs to God.  We’ll close this morning’s worship service with a song of victory.  Will you go out into the world and take on the full armor (panoply) of God?  In the chorus, as we sing, let’s give all our 1) glory, 2) honor, 3) power and 4) strength to the Lord.

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A Problem on the Way to the Promise Land…Feb. 17th

Sunday morning, February 17th at Waterview church of Christ, our lesson was aimed some of our trials/problems on our way to heaven.  To be specific…complaining!

man silhouette on sunset

As we examined the Israelite nation (post Egyptian captivity), Robert opened the word and we looked at how often the people of God complained about; the water and food (or lack there of) and the leadership coupled with an ‘I can do better’ attitude. The following ‘order of worship’ was designed to focus our minds on this Lord’s day.  Will you think about the songs you sing in praise to God?

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

 

Sunday morning, February 17, 2013

You’ll notice the following songs come from the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

 

“Praise the Lord” and “Great Are You, Lord” – 74 & no book

Four songs in this hymnal begin with these three, power words; “Praise the Lord”, but our song this morning was written by J. Kempthorne in 1796.  The words are taken from the 148th Psalm and the chorus resounds with “Hallelujah! Amen” repeated twice for emphasis.  “Holy Lord” (or better known as “Great Are You, Lord”) came on the scene almost 200 years later.  Written by a husband and wife team, Steve & Vikki Cook, this hymn again sings praises to our God.  A wonderful introduction to coming together, with my heart and sing…Great are You Lord!

“Beneath the Cross of Jesus” – 314

We set our minds on the Lord’s Supper as we sang the 1st and 3rd verses of this song.  As we set our minds and hearts at the foot of the cross, in our mind’s eye we can see, “the very dying form of One who suffered there for me.”  But we’ll keep our eyes on the cross as we continue to focus during the Lord’s Supper this morning.

“The Old Rugged Cross” – 313

Perhaps a bit of controversy surrounds this old hymn as some feel we shouldn’t ‘cherish’ the old rugged cross. But to others, this is metaphorically cherishing the death of my Savior, for without that cross, I’m lost.  This morning however, we specifically sang only the 3rd verse following the bread and before the fruit of the vine. Continuing to keep our eyes on Jesus we sang, “In that old rugged cross, stained with blood so divine, a wondrous beauty I see; for ’twas (it was) on that old cross Jesus suffered and died, to pardon and sanctify me…”

“When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” – 315

Though a very popular ‘communion’ song, again we only sang the third verse of ‘When I Survey.’  My reasoning was simple…keep your eyes on the cross of Jesus.  “See from His head, His hands, His feet, sorrow and love flowed mingled down…”  Keeping the volume soft and thoughtful we maintained a solemn focus on the death of our Savior as we partook of the Lord’s Supper.

Eyes To Heaven

“Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus” – 276

The title of this song comes from the chorus which was made famous by Helen Lemmel in 1922 (how many thought this to be a contemporary song).  Though we rarely sing the first three verses of this song, (verse 1) “O soul are you weary and troubled?”  the power of the chorus helps us keep our eyes on Jesus.  As we conclude the Memorial of our Lord’s death, we continually strive to stay focused on Him.  Would that our mind be so strongly tied to our God that, “…the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace.”

“To Canaan’s Land I’m On My Way” – 867

With the title of our lesson on ‘the promise land’, I thought it appropriate our song before the lesson singing us toward Canaan’s Land (heaven).  Interestedly enough we have lots of sorrows, struggles, tears and pain here on earth, but in heaven…“Dear friends they’ll be no sad farewells.  They’ll be no tear dimmed eyes.”  Why you might ask?  Simply, in Heaven (Canaan’s Land) the soul never dies.

“Bring Christ Your Broken Life” – 911

Though specific for the hymnal Faith and Praise, I think it’s interesting that this invitation song, this call for sinners to ‘bring Christ your broken life’ is found on page 9-1-1.  Notice these words: “Bring Christ your broken life, so marred by sin, He will create a new, make whole again; your empty wasted years He will restore, and your iniquities (sin) remember no more.” (Emphasis added) “Bring Him your every care if great or small – whatever troubles you, O bring it all!  Bring Him the haunting fears, the nameless dread, Thy heart He will relieve, and lift up thy head.”

“A Mansion, Robe and Crown” – no book

Another contemporary song, this one again focuses on heaven.  The third verse grabs my attention when I sing about difficult times; “My head is bowed and bloody now from the work I’ve tried to do…”  Maybe not physically for most of us, for some in the mission field I’m certain this is true.  Needless to say we are all looking forward to a mansion, robe and crown!

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Face Time…Feb 10th

Sunday, February 10th at Waterview church of Christ, our sermon title is “Face Time”.

face time

In today’s terminology, when you hear the term ‘face time’, you most likely think about talking on the phone or computer and seeing the face of the one you’ve called.  But Sunday morning at Waterview, as we listen to Robert’s sermon, the meaning will be a bit different.  Join us as we consider “Face Time”.  The following ‘order of worship’ will serve as our song service for Sunday morning, February 10th.  As always, let me encourage you to think about the songs you sing in praise to God.

Remember I Corinthians…”I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.”

 

Sunday morning, February 10, 2013

You’ll notice the following songs come from the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

 

“O Worship the King” and “All Things Praise Thee” – 144 & 43

As we sing this medley let’s consider the message.  We sing to bring glory to God as we worship the King.  Notice the last line in our first song in conjunction with the first line of the next song; “…pavilion in splendor and girded with praise.” “All things praise Thee, Lord most high…”  Though we see the connection with the words (and the key), what does it mean ‘pavilion in splendor’; how can something be ‘girded with praise’?  The fact is, our God is our shield and defender.  He is the ancient of days and He is our pavilion in splendor (which mean’s He is ‘covered with splendor’) and He is girded (surrounded) with praise!

“We’ll Work Till Jesus Comes” – 634

An old spiritual song that admonishes the singer to keep working.  Have you ever sighed for something?  We sing, “O land of rest…for thee I sigh, when will the moment come when I shall lay my armor by and dwell in peace at home?”  You know, I think I can understand what Elizabeth Mills must have been thinking we she wrote this song; our life is full of work (at least it should be) and after a long day’s work our thoughts go to resting…”when will the moment come?”

“Come, Share the Lord” – 364

A contemporary song by Bryan Leech encourages us to come together as we remember the Lord’s Supper.  Perhaps we should keep in mind the third verse as we draw this song to a close and sing, “…now we anticipate the feast for which we wait.  Come take the bread, come drink the wine (drink from the cup) come share the Lord.”

“Gentle Shepherd” – 845

“Gentle Shepherd, come and lead us, for we need you to help us find our way…”  As sheep we are often lost and in need of direction, protection and guidance from our Shepherd.  The good news, our Shepherd not only guides us and leads us, He is also gentle.  This beautiful hymn (because it is sung to HIM) reminds us that we are a blessed people…

“Face to Face” – no book

A song that speaks toward the end of life as we anticipate coming face to face with our God.  As we pass the collection plate on Sunday morning we’ll sing this song.  Let’s think about our life when we see Him “…by and by.”  HINT: This is a good lead in for our lesson… 

“I Am Resolved” – 948

This familiar hymn serves as our song before the lesson.  Listen to what you say in the chorus, “I will hasten to Him, hasten so glad and free.  Jesus, greatest, highest, I will come to Thee.”  How about singing it this way… “I will hurry to Him…”  Are we eager to see Jesus, eager enough to hurry?

mother daughter walking

“Only a Step” – 940

As we sing this song of encouragement on Sunday, take a look at the message found in the second verse, “Casting your heavy burden down, come to the cross, the world may frown: Yet you shall wear a glorious crown, when He makes up His own.”  How often do we hold on to the things that hinder us and keep us back?  We could better our health, but poor eating habits hold us back.  We could grow in our education, but laziness has a tendency to hold us back.  We struggle with our spiritual walk, but our sins hold us back.  Today’s a good day to cast your heavy burden down and come to the cross.  It’s only a step…

“Faithful Love” – no book

Faithful Love came to earth to show the Father’s love.  And I never be the same…do you know why?  Because I have seen Faithful Love (Jesus) all around me.  Can you see the majesty, the love of Jesus in this world?  Have you read the Word of God?  Jesus came to this earth, lived as a man, died on the cross and reconciles us to God.  When we are looking for Faithful Love, we need to look no further than our Bibles…then we’ll see Him face to face!