of His children and He will bless us as long as we honor, worship, follow and praise Him.The New Year’s Resolutions ‘Short List’…Jan. 4th
Have you taken the time to write down your New Year’s Resolutions? How many do you 
have on your list? Perhaps it’s short and to the point, a list of only three or four things you really want to do this year. Or maybe you are one of those ‘high achievers’ who has 10 or more items that you resolve to accomplish in the new year. Whether your list is short or long, we all have high expectations as to how we’ll do this year in keeping our New Year’s Resolutions.
But when you consider your list, what is the ‘one’ thing you most need/want to keep? One ‘resolution’ that takes precedence over the others on your list, a ‘short list’ to focus on. King David wrote in the 27th Psalm, “One thing I have asked from the Lord, that I shall seek (keeping a resolution): That I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life…” A basic resolution we might do well to keep. Come worship with us on Sunday morning as we consider ‘the New Year’s Resolutions… ‘Short List.’
“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15
Sunday morning, January 4, 2015
The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“Step by Step” – 15
Begin each morning singing praises to God. “O God, You are my God and I will ever praise You!” Even if you think you can’t ‘sing out,’ I encourage you to put a song in your heart each and every day. Then again maybe we should check and see if singing praises to God is even on our list…
“Why Did My Savior Come to Earth” – 382
As we sing before the Lord’s supper we ask each other a simple question; “Why did my Savior come to earth…?” Do you know the answer? Was it out of compulsion, or just one of those things on His ‘to do list?’ Was it out of pity because mankind is such a miserable lot? Or maybe He came because He didn’t have anything better to do? As we sing the chorus (or read the Bible) we find the answer. Why did Jesus drink the bitter cup…why on the cross be lifted up? Because He loved me so!
“Gentle Shepherd” – 845
This is a contemporary hymn we sing to our Savior, our Shepherd. Notice we are seeking guidance as we sing this hymn, this prayer; “Come and lead us, for we need You to help us find our way. Come and feed us, for we need Your strength from day to day.” Considering your New Year’s Resolutions…are either of these listed there?
“Til My Faith Becomes Sight” – 836
Bread of Life, Living Water, Lover of my soul…these are three descriptive characteristics we give Christ as we sing this song written less than 25 years ago. “…I will keep my eyes on You till my faith becomes sight.” We’ll sing it, but will keeping our eyes on Jesus be found on your short list of resolutions this year?
“Leaning on the Everlasting Arms” – 589
A song that dates back to the late 1880’s is one that reminds us all that we should live this life close enough to God that we can lean on Him. But do we think that way? Do we have fellowship in Christ, do we walk with Him, do we find peace with Him…are we leaning on Him? As we are “leaning on the everlasting arms,” we have nothing to fear or dread. And, if the truth be known, if we lean on Him we’re keeping part of that ‘short list.’
“Bring Christ Your Broken Like” – 911
Without fail the majority of us are bound to break our New Year’s resolutions before the spring thaw. Just like those broken New Year’s Resolutions, we slip up in life (we sin), and our life is ‘broken.’ We have a tendency to get ourselves wrapped up in work or play and find it easy to quietly walk away from ‘the house of the Lord.’ Not that we despise our God or His family, but we lose focus on our priorities. We’re too tired, too busy, too distracted to keep our resolutions. Maybe we should focus on the short list. One thing I ask of the Lord, this is what I seek…that I may dwell in the house of the Lord forever!
“I Want to Be Ready to Meet Him” – 604 & “The Glory-Land Way” – 535
We’ll sing this closing song/medley to help remind ourselves of His return. Notice the third verse and the transition in the medley; “There is one thing I can boast of, salvation from the fall (Hebrews 3:6). I’m an heir to wealth and glory, my Father owns it all. That is why I’m shouting happy and go at His command, for I want to be ready to meet Him in the glory land…I’m in the way, the bright and shining way, I’m in the glory-land way.” When we live our life so that we’re ready to meet Him, then we’ll be so much closer to keeping ‘The New Year’s Resolutions…Short List!’
Questions of the Season…Do you see what I see?
With so much activity in our lives, it’s rare that at this time of the year, we would take time to stop and look up into the night sky. Our commercialized life style is too focused on office parties, secret Santa’s, last-minute shopping and the ‘hustle and bustle’ of this wonderful season. Nothing wrong with any of these activities, there is a lot of excitement around gifts and decorations. But are we missing the point when our life becomes so focused on things 
that we fail to look heavenward? It’s true, in America, Christmas time is an intense and busy time of year. And our economy seems to depend upon the retail sales from all the shopping. Toys for children as well as adults are displayed and marketed as ‘must have items’ for Christmas morning.
But if you’re ever alone, all alone at this time of year, you may be able to hear some simple questions of the season. Questions like, “Do you see what I see?” Not the lights on the tree or the decorations on the mantle, but the beauty of the stars in the night sky. Or perhaps the question will be, “Do you hear what I hear?” Not the merriment of a Christmas party or the crunching of snow under foot, but the carols of praise and adoration that wafts on the airwaves. The scriptures tell us the magi saw a star in the east (Matthew 2:2), and yet the leaders of Israel and the king of Judea apparently didn’t see it. (At least they didn’t recognize it’s importance.) And certainly the shepherds heard the proclamation of Christ’s birth (Luke 2:14) as the heavenly choir echoed across the fields, “Glory to God in the highest…” Perhaps those shepherds asked their friends, “Did you hear the singing last night?” And reading the scripture we know that Mary took in all that was being said and done around her newborn baby (Luke 2:19), “…Mary treasured all these things, (what the shepherds had said) pondering them in her heart.” She might have asked another question for those who would stop long enough to listen. “Do you know what I know?”
I remember a cold, Christmas Eve in 1975. It was a Wednesday night as my family drove back to the farm house from our mid-week Bible study. We had gone into town that evening, and as we drove home I recall the crystal, clear sky. The stars were shining in the night sky, and as I stood in the drive way looking up I thought of the words to a classic Christmas carol. “Do you see what I see, way up in the sky little lamb? A star, a star, high above the trees with a tail as big as a kite.”
Though it was almost 30 years ago, I still remember the stillness and solitude of the moment. Recalling the words of the song is one thing, but the memories from that night on Christmas Eve in 1975 continually echo through my mind.
Said the night wind to the little lamb, “Do you see what I see?
Way up in the sky, little lamb, do you see what I see?
A star, a star, dancing in the night with a tail as big as a kite.
With a tail as big as a kite.”
Said the little lamb to the shepherd boy, “Do you hear what I hear?
Ringing through the sky, shepherd boy, do you hear what I hear?
A song, a song, high above the trees with a voice as big as the sea.
With a voice as big as the sea.”
Said the shepherd boy to the mighty king, “Do you know what I know?
In your palace warm, mighty king, do you know what I know?
A Child, a Child shivers in the cold let us bring Him silver and gold
Let us bring Him silver and gold
Said the king to the people everywhere, “Listen to what I say,
Pray for peace, people everywhere! Listen to what I say,
The Child, the Child, sleeping in the night,
He will bring us goodness and light!
He will bring us goodness and light!
How Does This Manna Taste to You?…Nov. 23rd
Being a ‘picky eater’ is what we would call the child who sits and stares at his food. And those infamous words, “I 
don’t like this!” are usually preceded by 30 minutes of sitting alone at the table watching the plate grow cold. Are we mean parents for insisting our kids eat what has been placed before them? Some might say ‘yes,’ while some believe otherwise. Worthy parents would never give their child something that wasn’t good for them, or would cause them harm. We provided for our children food that is nourishing and for their benefit.
And you know that God does the same. He gives us every good thing and blesses us in ways we can’t see. Still there are days when we sit down and say, “…but I don’t like this.” Perhaps the Israelite nation had this down pat as they ‘grumbled against the Lord.’ Whether it was manna from heaven or fresh quail, we read how “the congregation of the sons of Israel grumbled against Moses and Aaron.” Exodus 16 Sunday mornings we look heavenward and count our blessings. But this week consider your meal and answer the question, “How does this manna taste to you?”
“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15
Sunday morning, Nov. 23, 2014
You’ll notice the following songs come from the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“All Things Praise Thee” – 43
The hymn we’ll open with is a prayer that we might offer to God an acceptable, worthy praise. Each of the three verses begin with, ‘All things praise Thee…’ Praise flows to our God from the heavens and from the earth. From the silence of the night to the burning of the day God’s creation is constantly praising Him. The statement we make as we sing each of these verses is “Lord, may we!” It’s not a question, “may we worship God?” It’s an exclamation…May we Worship God as He deserves!
“Tis the Blessed Hour of Prayer” – 849
An hour of prayer…are you kidding me? If we spend more than a few minutes bowing our head and praying, our minds begin to wander. How could we spend an HOUR, a ‘blessed hour,’ in prayer? If we’re honest with ourselves it’s all a matter of the heart. When our hearts ‘lowly bend’ we come before God in a humble state of obedience. Who among us will sit for 3 hours watching a ball game? Or 2 hours in the theater? We do what we enjoy and we find blessing in that hour. You just have to decide if it will it be a blessed hour of prayer…or a blessed hour of play?
“In Christ Alone” – no book
As we prepare for the Lord’s Supper, this song of admonition serves as a memorial of Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection. While verse one consist of recognizing Him as our Cornerstone, solid ground and Comforter, verse two takes us from His birth to His crucifixion. Those who know this song cherish the third verse. As we begin singing softly of His burial, our voices ‘burst forth’ as we sing of His resurrection. The final verse gives us assurance in Christ as we sing, ‘No power of hell, no scheme of man, can ever pluck me from His hand…’ How could anyone complain about the blessings we find in Christ?
“I Am Mine No More” – 683
A simple, short, three verse song with a simple message, “It’s not about me.” Not only do I give up any false pretension of being in control, we continue in the second verse proclaiming Jesus as Lord. The concluding verse anticipates His return. If “I am mine no more,” and if “Jesus is my Lord” when “He will come again…He’ll take me home.” Simple, but still how many will still grumble and complain about one of these steps?
“O Thou Fount of Every Blessing” – 226
The words of this old hymn are dated back to the mid-1700’s. Taking a reference from I Samuel (Ebenezer) and sprinkling in some poetic terms, this song of admonition should get us all to thinking. If you take nothing else from this song, you must focus in on the third verse. “O to grace how great a debtor daily I’m constrained to be! Let Thy goodness like a fetter (chains) bind my wandering heart to Thee; (the original words continue) Prone to wander, Lord I feel it. Prone to leave the God I love. Here’s my heart, O take and seal it. Seal it for Thy courts above.” Do you realize what you’re saying? You said that you want God’s goodness to chain you up to Him. Funny, but isn’t that kind of what we want to do with our children when they reject the good things we give them?
“Kneel at the Cross” – 945
As our invitation we’ll kneel before the cross and sing of ‘giving our idols up.’ The things we value in this life are worthless when compared to living for Christ. We are a blessed people, but do we turn toward the world rather than looking toward Him?
“When Upon Life’s Billows” – 742
Can you count your blessings? When was the last time you even tried? Undoubtedly we would be lost in thought trying to make a list of how much our God has given us. This old hymn encourages us to remember how much God has blessed us. When the storm of life is threatening us, when we’re discouraged, when we’re burdened or when we’re ‘amid the conflict,’ we can still find blessings from our God. Unless we’re too distracted by the complaining. Maybe we really should answer the question…”How does this manna taste to you?”
Inspired or Inspiring?…Nov. 16th
Each Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings I look forward to a text from my daughter. She is a sophomore at Freed-Hardeman University in Henderson, Tennessee and her first 
class of the morning is at 7:30. Her ‘wake up’ call to me is a picture of the sunrise silhouetting the newly erected Bell Tower on campus. For me, those pictures are inspirational. And perhaps some architect was ‘inspired’ with this yet to be seen image. But regardless, we can find benefit in the final product.
Many in the world today find the words of God to be inspiring to them. They read (or hear) God’s word and it gives them a ‘good feeling.’ Perhaps they are even moved to be a better person, but is that the extent of God’s word? Is the inspiration good enough. Would it even be inspiring if it weren’t inspired? When we consider the inspiration of scripture we come face to face with a life altering decision. Sunday let’s consider the Word and ask the question…inspired or inspiring?
“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15
Sunday morning, November 16, 2014
The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“Holy, Holy, Holy” – 47
“Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God almighty…early in the morning our songs shall rise to Thee.” The ladies start us off as they sing this old hymn, but with each verse we’ll add a different part. For those who might have missed it, this hymn comes from the inspired word found in Isaiah chapter 6 and verse 3 as well as Revelation chapter 4, verse 8 as the prophet and the apostle write, “And one (of the Seraphim, vs. 2) called out to another and said, “Holy, Holy, Holy, is the Lord of host…” (Isaiah) and “And the four living creatures, each one of them having six wings and full of eyes around and within; and day and night they do not cease to say, “Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God, the Almighty…” (Revelation).
“The Lord is in His Holy Temple” – 108
As a segue from our song of praise, we’ll remember the words of Habakkuk in the 2nd chapter and 20th verse, “But the Lord is in His holy temple. Let all the earth be silent before Him.” (Read the whole chapter to get a better feel of this statement.) But where is His temple? Is it found in the heavenly realm? Read the words of Paul as he wrote to the church in Corinth, “Do you not know that you are a temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?” And so now we sing, “The Lord is in His holy temple…” Humble yourself, be quiet and realize, the Lord is in YOU!
“The Lord’s Supper” – no book
Simply entitled, “The Lord’s Supper,” this spiritual song brings to mind the reason we gather together each first day of the week. “When we meet in sweet communion where the feast divine is spread. Hearts are brought in closer union while partaking of the bread. Precious feast, all else surpassing, wondrous love for you and me. While we feast Christ gently whispers, ‘Do this in My memory.” Luke chapter 22, verse 19 provides us with the basis; “And when He had taken some bread and given thanks, He broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.”
“Take My Life and Let it Be” – 669
Several arrangements of this poem can be found in a number of hymnals, yet lest we miss the message for the tune, notice the words. “Take my life, and let it be consecrated, Lord, to Thee; Take my hands and let them move at the impulse of Thy love. Take my will, and make it Thine, it shall be no longer mine; take my heart, it is Thine own, it shall be Thy royal throne.” Within these two short verses we proclaim our life, our hands, our will and our heart belong to God. And in case we miss something, the chorus continues, “Lord I give my LIFE to Thee…”
“Rescue the Perishing” – 639
A familiar song, but Sunday we’ll sing the often, over looked 3rd verse. Notice the condition of the lost; “Down in the human heart, crushed by the tempter, feelings lie buried that grace can restore; touched by a loving hand, wakened by kindness, chords that were broken will vibrate once more…” Let’s rescue the perishing and care for the dying. Because we know that Jesus is merciful and He will save!
“Faithful Love” – no book
Our song before the lesson speaks of the love God has for His children. A faithful love that is manifested in His Son. “Faithful love from above came to earth to show the Father’s love. And I’ll never be the same, for I’ve seen faithful love face to face and Jesus is His name.” No man alive today can say he has seen Jesus. So how could I say I’ve seen Jesus face to face? However, as a child of God, I have seen (poetically) His faithfulness in that, “…God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were (I was) yet sinners, Christ died for us (me).” Romans 5:8 Have I seen Jesus face to face? Not yet! Have I ‘come to know’ (seen) His faithful love? Every Christian would say, Praise be to God…Yes, when I was buried with Him in baptism!
“Thou Art the Way” – 280
Inspiration in life is knowing the inspired Word. The inspired word is the Way, the Truth and the Life. We must never forget that God’s word is more than just inspirational…it’s inspired.
“Where Could I Go?” – no book
Our closing song is a question even the disciples once asked. John records the situation in the 6th chapter as Jesus asks, “You do not want to go away also, do you?” Simon Peter replies, “…to whom shall we go?” And so we sing, “Where could I go but to the Lord?” Inspired words of God directing us in this life just as Peter said, “You have the words of eternal life.” (John 6:67, 68)
The Start of the Great Commission…Nov. 2nd
If you ask a believer where to find ‘the Great Commission’ they would point you to Matthew chapter 28. But in all actuality the words great commission aren’t found in this passage or any other scripture for that matter. So why do we refer to some of Christ’s last words as a commission, and a great one at that? Or maybe we 
should be asking what is a commission and why is this one great?
The words of Christ found in Matthew 28:18-20 are as follow: “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always even to the end of the age.” The commission from Christ is to GO. The reason this commission is great is because of the mission…making (baptizing) disciples and teaching them about Christ. Sunday morning we’ll look and see how we can be an active part, perhaps even start ‘the Great Commission.’
“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15
Sunday morning, November 2, 2014
You’ll notice the following songs come from the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“Praise Him! Praise Him!” – 300
Opening our time together we’ll give our praise to God! Fulfilling the commission includes teaching, and in teaching we know we come to praise Him…ever in joyful song!
“Come Share the Lord” – 364
This contemporary song is a reminder of why we come together. “We gather here in Jesus name. His love is burning in our hearts like living flame. The One we love the most, is now our gracious host, come take the bread, come drink the wine (the fruit of the vine), come share the Lord…” Are you sharing your love for God? Will you tell others of His saving grace?
“Let the Lower Lights Be Burning” – 642
This older hymn is a strong example of evangelism. Looking toward the sea (of life), we see thousands adrift, and most don’t even realize their lost state. The Lighthouse (Jesus Christ) shines brightly calling for those who are seeking a refuge. We stand at the foot of the Lighthouse as the ‘lower lights’ direct and guide the weary traveler past the ‘treacherous shoal’ toward the light. Perhaps you need to check your light and see how brightly it’s shining. Remember, this is part of the Great Commission, directing those who are seeking.
“Send the Light” – 650
There is calling for all Christians every where to shine their light…albeit their lower light. As we strive to fulfill the commission Christ gave us more than 2000 years ago we have to ask ourselves if we’re really sending the light or if we’re holding it close. If you’re tired and would just as soon someone else do the work, then maybe you should sing the last verse of this song…“Let us not grow weary in the work of love…let us gather 
jewels for a crown above…”
“Far and Near” – 784
Our invitation song is one we don’t sing often, but one that explains more clearly the great commission. It finds root in Christ’s words to His disciples in Luke 10, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore beseech the Lord of harvest to send out laborers in His harvest. So we sing, “Lord of harvest send forth reapers, hear us Lord to Thee we cry. Send them now the sheaves to gather ‘ere the harvest time pass by.”
“The Gospel is for All” – no book
This is one of my favorites as we proclaim the fact that ALL can come to Christ. The blessed gospel is for all! We’ll sing this as we set aside time to give toward the Great Commission Sunday. Our mission work will be our focus this morning!
“Into Our Hands” – no book
Life is passing by quickly. Just take a look in the mirror see how many gray hairs are adorning your crown as opposed to 10 years ago. Or look at the pictures of your children you have hanging on the wall…from 20 years ago. “Swiftly we’re turning life’s daily pages…how are we using God’s golden moments, shall we reap glory…shall we reap tears?” We’ll sing this question, and we know what the answer should be, therefore we sing, “…into our hands the gospel is given, into our hands is given the light.” Fulfilling the great commission means we’re willing and ready to take the message from our hands to the hearts of those who are dying. Get ready and prepare yourself to start the great commission.
Can a Christian Be a Thinking Person?…Oct. 19th
It was written in 1929 by Ernest Hemingway in the novel, A Farewell to Arms. A simple sentence that haunts mankind, “All thinking men are atheists.” The secular world would have you believe that faith in God is weakness and scientific ignorance. 
In a world that speaks with disdain toward God and elation toward self, what is a Christian to do? What can we say that will convince the ‘un-churched’ to reconsider their path of ungodliness? When we profess our belief in “…God created…”, the world dismisses this as ancient myth. But we believe in an intellectually superior God who shaped and formed the earth. Remember what Paul wrote to the church in Ephesus, “They (unbelievers) are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of the hearts.”
Waterview welcomes Dr. Phil Thompson of Harding University on Sunday, October 19th. He will be presenting two classes and two lessons designed to answer the question, “Can thinking people believe?”
“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15
Sunday morning, Oct. 19, 2014
The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name” – 162
Built into a medley with “Hallelujah, Praise Jehovah,” we’ll begin our worship together with these songs of praise. “All hail the power of Jesus’ name let angels prostrate fall! Bring forth the royal diadem and crown Him Lord of all…” Is Christ the Lord of your life? You make that decision, though your decision has no bearing on His royalty. He reigns! We will either follow Him or we will not. A foolish, deceived world will not, but rest assured, He is Lord of All!
“Hallelujah, Praise Jehovah” – 3
Taken from the 148th Psalm we’ll sing the scripture in this ‘psalm.’ Have you read it lately? If not, after we sing it you really should read it! His divine power is reinforced in His creation, everything praises Him. The question is…will you?
“We Saw Thee Not” – 342
Before the Lord’s Supper we’ll sing the first three verses remembering Christ’s death. Perhaps the power comes in the conclusion of each of these verses as we sing (twice for emphasis), “But we believe…”
“My Faith Has Found a Resting Place” – 582
Not an overly familiar song, but one which we need to understand and daily echo the chorus, “I need no other argument, I need no other plea, it is enough that Jesus died and rose again for me.” Do you have the faith to be able to not only sing these word, but believe them and live your life accordingly?
“O Listen to the Wondrous Story” – 496
Before our lesson we’ll sing this popular spiritual song written more than 100 years ago. The third verse is a great question to the listener as we sing, “Will you surrender to this Savior? To His scepter humbly bow? You, too, shall come to know His favor, He will save you, save you now.” Then the chorus resounds with a question and answer, “Who saved us from eternal loss! Who but God’s Son upon the cross? What did He do? He died for you! Where is He now? Believe it thou, In heaven interceding!”
“Trust and Obey” – 915
“When we walk with the Lord in the light of His world, what a glory He sheds on our way…” You most likely know this song by heart having sung it for years. But often we are familiar with the first, second and last verses and have never fully learned the third verse. But this morning consider a line from this song which has implications on today’s lesson. “But we never can prove the delights of His love until all on the altar we lay; for the favor He shows, and the joy He bestows, are for those who will trust and obey.” So where are you in regard to laying your all on the altar. Or are you still trying to see if you can prove the delights of His love?
“Love Lifted Me” – 453
A rousing song as we part this morning. We will sing over and over the message of the chorus, “Love lifted me…” Do you find that living for Christ lifts your spirits? The child of God understands this ‘lift’ and finds comfort in his belief in a Savior. Though the world may think us to be ignorant or backward, we know where to look when we’re ‘sinking deep in sin, far from the peaceful shore…’ Let’s not keep this story of salvation to ourselves. There is a dying world out there who desperately needs a Savior.
Before & After the Wedding Cake…Sept. 21st
Weddings are wonderful occasions adorned with tears of joy, songs of emotion and words 
of commitment. But ask one of my boys what he likes the most about weddings (if he has to go) and he will tell you, the reception. Not for the greeting and visiting, but for the food. The mints are nice and the chocolate fountain is a highlight, but everyone steps forward when it’s time to cut the cake.
Still one might wonder why focus on the wedding cake for a Sunday morning sermon? What comes before and after the ‘cake’ that gives us pause to preach about? Join us Sunday while we learn more about the wedding as we look at the marriage. God gave us a pattern for marriage and the wedding day, but when the world distorts God’s perfect plan, chaos ensues. Perhaps it’s time we step back and take a look at what’s happening before and after the wedding cake.
“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15
Sunday morning, Sept. 21, 2014
The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“Give Me the Bible” – 450
We look forward to things in this world that are temporary. A young person wants his freedom, an older person wants peace and quiet, and a child (the world) wants its toys. But what does the child of God want? This morning we’ll sing it, but do we really want it, “…the Bible…” Do you want it? Do you believe it will guide you in the narrow way? If we know what’s good for us we’ll do more than sing about it, we’ll read it!
“How Shall the Young Secure Their Hearts?” – 432
What a great song of dedication to encourage each other to hold on to God’s word. But not just holding on, passing the message on to our children. Sometimes I wonder if we’re really concerned about the souls of our youth, or if we just want them to have fun. Until we believe and understand that the Bible will guide our children and well support our age we will never be secure in this life or the life to come.
“How Beautiful” – 365
How beautiful are the hands of those who serve, and the feet that bring the good news of Christ. And how beautiful is the bride of Christ, His church, as she waits for His arrival (return.) But nothing compares to the beauty of Christ. We sing, “…and as He laid down His life, we offer this sacrifice, that we may live just as He died, willing to pay the price…” As we commemorate the Lord’s Supper consider just how beautiful…is the body of Christ.
“A Common Love” – 705
We sing about loving one another and we talk about our Christian love for each other…but do we really have a common love? In 1974, Charles Brown wrote this song and punctuated the objective we should all have. Not just a common love, but a common gift and a common bond. We share a common strength and a common hope in Christ. What a joy we find in the truth of God’s word when we understand and appreciate that common love.
“Happy the Home When God is There” – no book
Though the title of this song might be new to you, perhaps you’ll recognize the tune. Written in 1846, Henry Ware penned this poem and 20 years later, John B. Dykes offered the musical accompaniment (St. Agnes). Many may remember the song, “Jesus, the Very Thought of Thee.” These two songs share the same tune, so if you don’t recognize the words to “Happy the Home When God is There,” perhaps you’ll recognize this tune.
“God Give Us Christian Homes” – 843
A beautiful song before our lesson that addresses all elements of the family; father, mother, children. However, we’ll miss the message if we don’t follow verse one, “God give us Christian home! Homes where the Bible is loved and taught, Homes where the Master’s will is sought, Home crowned with beauty Thy love hath wrought (provided, created); God give us Christian homes…!”
“I Have Decided to Follow Jesus” – 674
So what is your decision? How will your family be led? Has God been the same before and after the wedding cake? This lesson might cause some to stop and consider just how we’re handling the issues of marriage? The one who has decided to follow Jesus knows…do you?
“God of Our Fathers” – 1025
Not a hymn we typically sing in the congregational setting, but an exceptional message we must never forget. Perhaps it’s the ‘Old English’ that gives us hesitation, but if you’ll consider the words, you’ll see the wisdom. “God of our fathers, whose almighty hand leads forth 
in beauty all the starry band of shining worlds in splendor thru the skies, our grateful songs before Thy throne arise…” Would that we take God’s word as our law and our chosen way. Our nation was founded on Godly principles, but sometimes I wonder if something happened after the wedding cake?
The Spread of the Kingdom…Aug. 17th
“Go, therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” These are the final words, recorded in Matthew chapter 28, of our Lord and Savior following His resurrection. His mission complete, Jesus called for all men to come to ‘know Him and the power of His resurrection.’ Phil. 3:10 We have come to know this passage as; “The Great Commission.”
The word commission can be defined as, “a group of people officially authorized to perform certain duties or functions.” In this context, Christians are that group of people. And we are the ones ‘authorized’ (given the duty) to teach Christ and baptize in the name of the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit. We are called to make disciples from all the nations. An obligation to reach the lost with Christ. We know it, we’ve memorized it and we believe it…but how well do we follow it? Are we guilty of saying we agree, but then failing to ‘go, and make disciples of all the nations’? Whether we reach around the globe, or across the street, we have been given a ‘commission’ to spread the kingdom of God.
“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15
Sunday morning, August 17, 2014
The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“The Battle Belongs to the Lord” – 749
Do we see our life as a battle? A quick glance at the evening news reveals unrest, strife and war all around. It seems we live in a war zone. But as Paul wrote to the church in Ephesus, “…our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the…spiritual forces of wickedness.” (Ephesians 6:12) So Christians, this song could be translated, “As we go about our daily activities (enter into the land) we must go with the armor of God (Ephesians 6:11-20). And in this manner, there is no reason to be afraid. There is no weapon that our enemy can produce (fashion against us) that will stand against God.” Let’s take courage in knowing, “The Battle Belongs to the Lord!”
“Thomas’ Song” – 269
Written as though from the pen of ‘doubting’ Thomas, this song echos what might have been said by this disciple following the death of Jesus. “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…” Perhaps you can relate to the raw emotion and the depth of pain as you sing the first line of the chorus, “If I could only hold Your hand…” How often, when a loved passes do we long for one more chance to hold their hand. Certainly Thomas felt this same emptiness. But we move from the anguish of sorrow to the exclamation of joy as the risen Lord appears to his followers. It’s no wonder Thomas said, and we sing the words found in John 20:28, “I proudly say with blazon cry, You are ‘My Lord and my God!’ “
“Bethlehem…Galilee…Gethsemane” – 357
A beautiful song with a simple message. The message of Jesus’ birth, His life, His death and ultimately His resurrection. “Now He lives and reigns forever, I believe! I believe!” As a child of God, we believe…but are we faithful in sharing our belief? We must spread the message of the kingdom!
“The Greatest Commands” – 448
Each musical part; soprano, alto, tenor and bass have the opportunity to sing and harmonize the scripture with this contemporary psalm. Notice the reference to scripture with each line, singing with understanding of the love of God. That love is needed in a lost and dying world. We are called to make disciples of all the nations teaching them to…“Love one another for love is of God!”
“Send the Light” – 650
Listen carefully and you can hear the call that comes ringing from across the waves. And today that call is becoming more and more pronounced. God-fearing families are being told to denounce Jehovah God, and if they refuse, they face death. How can we send the light of Jesus Christ into 
a darkness of that caliber? The answer is Christ. We should “…pray that grace may everywhere abound…and a Christ-like spirit everywhere be found: Send the Light!”
“I Love to Tell the Story” – 659
Words that will serve as our invitation song are actually a reminder of how we will show Christ in this world. Do you love to tell others about Jesus? How often in your day do you talk about ‘unseen things above?’ When you realize that ‘some have never heard the message of salvation,’ does that inspire you to tell the old, old story?
“Sowing the Seed of the Kingdom” – 643
We all have a responsibility in the kingdom of God. We are called to teach the commandments of Christ, baptize in the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and ultimately make disciples. When we do this, we begin the harvest for God. Are you sowing the seed of the kingdom? Are you teaching the lost about Christ? Are you baptizing them and making disciples? ‘The harvest time is coming on…’ it’s time we get busy and spread the kingdom!
Vacation Bible School…Part 3
How quickly the summer seems to fly by. And whether you’re feeling the heat of the summer months, or enjoying some unseasonably mild temperatures, at the Waterview church of Christ, we’re in high gear preparing for and planning our annual Vacation Bible School. This article concludes a three-part series looking at VBS songs that motivate and encourage the young and the young at heart.
We’ve reminisced on the words of “Joy, Joy, Joy”, “Daniel and Ruth”, “The Wise Man”, “The Lord’s Army” and “Roll the Gospel Chariot.” Though so many more could be explored, we’ll wrap up with these three oldies; “His Banner Over Us is Love”, “My God is So BIG” and “Wrapped Up, Tied Up, Tangled Up in God.” For many of us, we may not realize the scripture that serves as the foundation of this first ‘VBS’ song. Read Song of Solomon chapter 2 verse 4…then let’s sing!
Share these words and you will be a “Booster” for your Vacation Bible School…
Read the text and remember this classic:
“He invites us into to His banquet table…
and His banner over us is love. (repeat 2 times)
His banner, over us, is love!”
“He is mine and I am His…
and His banner over us is love. (repeat 2 times)
His banner, over us, is love!”
“The one way to peace, is the power of the cross…
His banner over us is love. (repeat 2 times)
His banner, over us, is love!”
And this favorite among the little ones…
“My God is so BIG, so strong and so mighty
There’s nothing my God can not do! (repeat 1 time)
The mountains are His,
the valleys are His,
the trees are His handiwork too.
“My God is so BIG, so strong and so mighty
There’s nothing my God can not do!”
A warning to the adults…
don’t pull a muscle on these hand motions!
“I’m all wrapped up, I’m all tied up, I’m all tangled up in Jesus.
I’m all wrapped up, I’m all tied up, I’m all tangled up in God.
I’m all wrapped up, I’m all tied up, I’m all tangled up in Jesus.
I’m all wrapped up, tied up, tangled up in God…Oh Yeah.”