The Opportunity of a Life Time…September 1st

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

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

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

Sunday morning, September 1, 2013

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

“Doxology” 66
“I Sing Praises” – 97

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

“Tell Me the Story of Jesus” – 387

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

“My Eyes are Dry” – 792

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

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

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

“I Love to Tell the Story” – 659

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

“Wonderful Words of Life” – 543

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

“Will You Not Tell It Today” – 628

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

1, August 26, 20131, August 26, 2013

A Light in the Darkness

When the night is dark and the moon is black (a new moon), the absence of light makes it hard to get around. Objects are only shadows and often hard to distinguish. The simplest of forms are distorted and the ability to make things out is complicated. It’s a feeling of being blind without the permanence of the disability. But consider those who are blind; unable to see shades of color not to mention shapes or forms. Blind and unable to maneuver easily or without assistance. Light is too often an under appreciated element. Could you be comfortable if you were always in the dark?

In the last few verses of the 10th chapter of Mark, Jesus and His disciples are leaving Jericho with a large crowd of people. As they are walking, a man by the name of Bartimaeus was begging and calling out for Jesus. An important note here, this beggar is blind. He’s not with the crowd, as a matter of fact, as he calls out for Jesus the crowd is ‘hushing’ him into silence. But Bartimaeus is so determined to ‘see’ the son of David and calls out even louder. Remember, he can’t see, he’s blind, and he’s calling for the Savior.

Perhaps it’s not surprising that Jesus calls the man to Him, but what I find to be interesting is what I read next, Mark 10:49, 50…“So they called to the blind man, ‘Cheer up! On your feet! He’s calling you.’Throwing his cloak aside, he jumped to his feet and came to Jesus.” He was called and he came; he was blind, but he came. Many call on the name of Jesus, but few are willing to ‘throw’ this world aside, ‘jump to their feet’ and come to Him. Remember, he’s blind. He can’t see…but he goes to the Messiah. Did some one lead him? Did he follow the sound of Christ’s voice, or did he just know where Jesus was. Regardless of how he got there, his focus was getting to Jesus even though he was blind. And then Jesus asked the obvious question; perhaps because He wanted to hear it from the man himself. Verse 51 records Jesus saying, “What do you want me to do for you?” Without hesitation the blind man said, “Rabbi, I want to see.” Completing this chapter you’ll read that Jesus says to Bartimaeus, “Go, your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road.” (NIV84) Bartimaeus was ‘in the dark’ so he called to Jesus, and the “Light of the world” opened his eyes.

John records in his 8th chapter of the gospel of John, that Jesus said to the people, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” Bartimaeus was walking in the darkness until he called to Jesus, came to Jesus and then followed Jesus. But what does that mean to me? There are no shadows in my life; my eyes are open and I can see just fine…or can I? When we admit that we’re ‘in the dark’ and we can’t see, then we’ll understand how much we need the light. Jesus knew that the world would reject Him. He knew the nations would be comfortable in their blindness and refuse to call out for help.

Listen to this version of a familiar, contemporary song that tells us how the light of the world came to a dark and dying world, and then hear what the Christian’s response will be:

“Light of the world you stepped down into darkness, Opened my eyes, let me see
Beauty that made this heart adore You Hope of my life spent with You

And here I am to worship, Here I am to bow down, Here I am to say that You’re my God
You’re altogether lovely, altogether worthy, altogether wonderful to me

King of all days Oh, so highly exalted glorious in heaven above.
Humbly You came to the earth You created all for love’s sake became poor

And here I am to worship, Here I am to bow down, Here I am to say that You’re my God
You’re altogether lovely, altogether worthy, altogether wonderful to me

I’ll never know how much it cost
To see my sin upon that cross…”

We are called to the Light and we see because Christ was willing to ‘step down’ to us. He humbled Himself and paid the cost for our salvation. We might think we can see clearly in this world, but without ‘the Light’ we’re walking around in the shadows. The darkness of this life is more crippling then many realize, but how many will call to Him, come to Him and ultimately follow Him?

1, August 16, 20131, August 16, 2013

The Hypocritic Oath…August 18th

Physicians, historically, work under a Hippocratic oath. It means they promise to ‘practice medicine honestly.’ Part of the oath includes the following: “I will prescribe regimens for the good of my patients…and never do harm to anyone… I will give no deadly medicine to any one…nor suggest any such counsel…I will preserve the purity of my life and my arts…In every house where I come I will enter only for the good of my patients…All that may come to my knowledge in the exercise of my profession, I will keep secret and will never reveal…If I keep this oath faithfully, may I enjoy my life and practice my art, respected by all humanity and in all times; but if I swerve from it or violate it, may the reverse be my life.”

OK, but what is a Hypocritic Oath? Not hard to recognize a hypocrite (one who pretends to be what he’s not), but how could that be placed in the same title as ‘oath?’ Could we be ‘promising’ something we’re not willing to do? Join us Sunday morning as Robert Taylor takes us closer to understanding this mystery.

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

Sunday morning, August 18, 2013

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

“Hosanna” -167

Praise to God! That’s the definition of the word “Hosanna”…Praise to God in the highest. Gentlemen, lead the congregation as you open the chorus; “Lord, we lift up Your name, with hearts filled with praise; So be exalted, O Lord my God, Hosanna, in the highest!”

“Lord, We Come Before Thee Now” – 797

A song of prayer, a hymn we sing to our God proclaiming our desire to approach His throne. But what could we mean by ‘…O do not our suit disdain…”; what’s a ‘suit’ and how can it be disdained? The suit is the plea, the appeal we make before God. Our request is that He will not reject or turn away our plea. Notice the words; “Lord, we come before Thee now; at Thy feet we humbly bow. O do not our suit (plea) disdain (reject), shall we seek Thee, Lord, in vain?” Find the message in the next line…“Lord, on Thee our souls depend…”. If we are rejected by God what hope do we have?

“When My Love to Christ Grows Weak” – 350

Do you ever find your ‘love for Christ’ growing weak? How about your love for mankind? This song gives you the remedy for those times of ‘weakness’. We do have a place we can turn…This morning we’ll sing all five verses of this song as we remember the Lord’s Supper.

“I’m Not Ashamed to Own My Lord” – 609

Often when ‘put on the spot’ we have a tendency to deny what’s truly important, what we hold dear. A child is questioned about following his parents rules and he might say, “I don’t have to do what they say…” So it is with many in their relationship with God. I don’t have to do EVERYTHING the Bible says. When you are questioned about your faith do you deny Him? Are you ashamed of Him? Let’s live so we ‘maintain the honor of His word…”

“The Greatest Commands” – 448

A great contemporary song that provides each of the four basic parts an opportunity to sing their individual lines, yet all in harmony. Notice each of these verses come from the scripture; I John 4:7, 8, I Corinthians 13:7 and Christ’s words in Luke as He says, “Love the Lord, thy God with all thy heart, with all thy soul, all thy strength all thy mind…”; a beautiful soprano line. But do you know which part (bass, tenor or alto) sings I Corinthians 13:7?

“All to Jesus I Surrender” – 662

What does it mean ‘surrender all?’ When a wrestler throws in the towel, is he giving up for just a few minutes or is he giving up the whole match? When we give our lives over to God, we must leave the world behind…entirely! Unfortunately, many are willing to just give up enough to feel comfortable with their Christianity. Maybe what we should be asking is, ‘what part of ALL do you not understand?’

“Let the Lower Lights Be Burning” – 642

The lower lights…how important are the lower lights when the tall, majestic light house is perched on the hill? Maybe you should ask a sailor who is tossed by the stormy waves on the dark sea. A faithful row of lights illuminating the darkness can mean life and death to some who are close to the reef. My job is to keep my lamps trimmed (burning), regardless of how ‘feeble’ I may think my lamps to be.

“Ring Out the Message” – 622

One of the most stirring, spiritual songs is found in this call to evangelize. Again, the male voices lead the chorus as we sing “Ring out the news that makes men free…to all the lost of every nation, ring the message out!”

1, August 9, 20131, August 7, 2013

The Green Peach Principle…August 11th

With the summer sun beating down, a nice juicy Georgia peach would be a welcome refreshment. Then again, a warm slice of peach pie would be just as good. But why would the lesson on Sunday morning be focused on peaches…green peaches no less?

Sunday morning we’ll gather together and listen to a lesson presented by one of our own ministers, Robert Taylor. But you might be wondering, what is the Green Peach Principle? Maybe we should first ask…what is a green peach? Join us as we explore God’s Word and consider,
‘The Green Peach Principle’.

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

Sunday morning, August 11, 2013

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

“Praise the Lord” -74

Pick up your bible and turn to the book of Psalms…we can read and sing the psalms of praise! For those who are thorough and follow things closely, you’ll find that in the Faith & Praise Hymnal we have four (4) songs that begin with the words, “Praise the Lord”. This hymn, written in 1796 by J. Kempthrone, quotes the 148th Psalm. The musical arrangement of the chorus is strong as the women sing “Hallelujah” and the men echo with “Amen”. But for further emphasis, the parts continue with men singing “Hallelujah” and the women echoing “Amen”. Could this be one of those hymns we sing around the throne? It certainly has the message…

“Ten Thousand Angels” – 349

The story of Christ’s crucifixion is sung in this old spiritual song written and arranged in the late 1950’s. As you sing the verses you’ll notice references to scripture in Christ’s words as He hung on the cross. But is 10,000 angels a Biblical concept? Consider what Christ said in Matthew 26:53, “…do you think I cannot appeal to My Father, and He will at once put at My disposal more than twelve (12) legions of angels?” By historical accounting, a legion of Roman soldiers equated to 6,000 men. Working the numbers you see Jesus was talking about more than 10,000 angels. Maybe the song should sing, “He could have called 72,000 angels…” But praise be to God, he didn’t!

“Ancient Words” – no book

This is one of our favorite contemporary songs here at Waterview. Written in 2001, this song of encouragement is a rich reminder of the holy word of God, and the fact that it has been handed down from generation to generation. The truth of the chorus must never be forgotten; “Ancient words, ever true, changing me and changing you…” Your life will be changed by God’s word when you listen to the message of salvation. But listening isn’t enough; verse two admonishes us with these words, “Holy words of our faith handed down to this age, came to us through sacrifice; O heed the faithful words of Christ…” Listen to this song, but heed the faithful words.

“What is He Worth to Your Soul” – 321

A new song for many, but perhaps the message will support our lesson today. As we sing during the passing of the collection plate, you’ll notice a very intentional message in this old spiritual song (read verse 2); “All that was His for the sinner He gave, pointed the path to the goal; sin would deprave (corrupt), but the Savior would save, what is He worth to your soul?” A pretty simple question but how would you answer…what is Jesus worth to you?

“I Stand in Awe” – 96 & “Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus” – 648

The first song in this medley before our lesson was beautifully written over 25 years ago. It calls for us to recognize God’s position as ‘too marvelous for words.’ Is Jesus really ‘too beautiful beyond description?’ Standing as we sing, let us lift our voices in awe to our God! But we’ll continue singing and standing as we reflect on a song more than 150 years old. Though we physically stand for these songs, we must be willing to stand up for Jesus in a spiritual way. As a sin-stained world rejects Jesus, will you stand for Him? Maybe you’ll need to ask yourself again, what is He worth to me?

“What Shall it Be” – 944

Have you heard the warning, ‘Don’t have anything to do with him.’ Why would that admonition be given if not to warn? Interestingly enough that’s exactly what the world says about Jesus. But as we sing this invitation song we’ll ask the question, “What will you do with Jesus?” This is a question we can’t ignore and refuse to answer. As the chorus states, ‘neutral you cannot be…’ Your answer?

“Redeemed” – 458

A strong, spiritual song with a beautiful echo after each measure. The ladies start with “Sweet is the song” and the men repeat. But what is the sweet song, and why do we sing about having great joy? Almost 100 years ago James Rowe wrote this spiritual song and simply stated what the Christian believes…“I am redeemed!” Unfortunately, far too many sing the song of redemption, but fail to process the last line of the chorus; “All to Him I now resign…” Without this complete resignation (giving up) of our worldly pleasures we don’t fully understand how much Jesus is worth, to our souls.

1, July 26, 20131, July 25, 2013

Sermons from an Empty Pew…July 28th

You might be familiar with the adage, “Actions speak louder than words.” A smile might tell you someone is happy while a frown expresses disappointment or frustration. But honestly, what sermon could we possible hear from an empty seat? Is anything to be learned when someone is missing from church services. Is it that big of a deal when someone is ‘MIA’ from the assembly?

Each Sunday morning God’s people come together to worship, edify, study and commemorate Christ’s sacrifice on Calvary. But what are the consequences when a Christian doesn’t come? What is the lesson we can learn from ‘an empty pew?’

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

Sunday morning, July 28, 2013

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

“O Worship the King” -144

A great song of praise and that many are familiar with. But with familiarity comes an opportunity for laziness. We know some songs so well we sing them without given them much thought, a dangerous maneuver. For example; we sing the third verse with energy, “O worship the King, all glorious above, And gratefully sing His wonderful love; (no problem so far, we understand what we’re saying) Our Shield and Defender, the Ancient of Days, pavilion-ed in splendor and girded with praise.” When you sing this song recognize that as God is covered with brilliancy (magnificence), He is also surrounded (enthroned) with praise!”

“I’m Not Ashamed to Own My Lord” – 609

Are there things you are ashamed of? Things you’d rather not have ‘in the open?’ Is your faith in Jesus one of those things? Without hesitation we would say “NO”, but how many of your peers on the job or in your circle of influence know how important Jesus is to you? Some might say they are not ashamed of Christ, but the question comes in the next line…will you defend His cause?

“Til My Faith Becomes Sight” – 836

“Tho they slay me, tho I fall; in darkness You are light, Jesus. I will keep my eyes on You till my faith becomes sight.” Dennis Jernigan writes this song and some may wonder, who would slay me; I know there’s times I fall, but how can I keep my eyes on Jesus when it’s dark? Remember the battle and keep in mind, our falling and the darkness of this world is not physical, but spiritual. Keep your eyes on Christ as your faith is strengthened in Him.

“Take Time to Be Holy” – 731

The message of this song is simple, but extremely thorough. Notice what happens when we take the time to be holy. We will speak often with our Lord. We will feed on His word (read the Bible). We’ll make friends of God’s children, the family of God, and we’ll help those who are weak. Then above everything else (in all that we do), we will seek His blessings. And to think, that’s just the first verse!

“We Gather Together” – no book

Some might remember this old hymn (spiritual song) as one we sang in November, around Thanksgiving time. It does lean toward being thankful for all God has given us, but my intention is for us to consider this first line; “We gather together to ask the Lord’s blessing…” As a congregation of God’s people we need to be ready, willing and eager to gather together.

“How Firm a Foundation” – 457

Ask any engineer and you’ll hear that your structure is only a solid as the foundation it’s built upon. In Christ we have a firm foundation, one that won’t crack, shift or crumble throughout the years. A foundation with a guarantee, a seal as Paul says when writing to Timothy, “…the firm foundation of God stands, having this seal, ‘The Lord knows those who are His,’ and “Everyone who names the name of the Lord is to abstain from wickedness.’ “ So, how is your foundation? Or maybe you should ask, how’s your seal?

“Great Are You, Lord” – no book

Before our lesson this morning we’ll praise God with this hymn of praise. ‘Holy Lord, most holy Lord! You alone are worth of our praise!’ He is great and He is worthy. Lift up your voice and give God the praise. This morning, tomorrow morning, every morning we should be ready to proclaim, “GREAT ARE YOU LORD!”

“I Am Resolved” – 948

Every January 1st you find people making their ‘new year’s resolutions.’ A time when you say you fix your mind toward accomplishing your goals. A time when you promise yourself personal achievement. A new year, a new start, a new goal. But this invitation song is more than just a first of the year promise. As we sing, we sing to confirm a promise. We are resolved no longer to linger, to go to the Savior, to follow the Savior, and ultimately, to enter the kingdom. In your resolution do you hasten to Him or just take your time?

“Will Jesus Find Us Watching” – no book

When Jesus comes back to receive His own where will you be? What will you be doing? This spiritual song is one I remember from my child-hood. Standing in the auditorium at 1st Street church of Christ in Dumas, Texas I remember standing beside my brother and singing the chorus of this song, “O can we say we are ready, brother? Ready for the souls bright home? Say, will He find you and me still watching, waiting, waiting when the Lord shall come?” So…how about it; are you ready, are you watching?

1, July 19, 20131, July 19, 2013

The Danger of Drifting…July 21st

Without an anchor, a boat will drift and the stability of it’s location is lost. We drop anchor to secure us and keep us from drifting away. Scripture is rich in comparing our souls to a vessel and our anchor to Christ. The Hebrew writer explains, ‘This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil…’ (6:19)

But what’s the ‘big deal’ with drifting and why should we be concerned about losing our position? Is there peril in falling away? Consider how helpless you feel when you sink beneath the waves, not able to touch bottom and realizing all hope is being covered in breathlessness. That happens the minute we start to drift.

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

Sunday morning, July 21, 2013

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

“Oh, Praise the Lord” 282

From the pen of the Psalmist, this ‘hymn’ is a direct praise to our God (logically, it could call it a psalm as well). Can you see the passion in this song of praise! “O praise the Lord, all ye nations; praise Him all ye people, for His merciful kindness is great toward us; and the truth of the Lord endureth forever…praise ye the Lord!”

“Marvelous Things” – 209

A contemporary, spiritual song with a strong, 4-part harmony. The soprano’s open with eight, simple words; ‘He has done marvelous things. Praise the Lord.’ Each part joins in succession (alto, tenor, bass) with the same message; ‘marvelous things…’ Considering what God has done it makes sense we’d conclude with the acclamation, ‘Praise the Lord!’

“Christ We Do All Adore Thee” – 186

As we prepare our minds for the Lord’s supper, we’ll sing this hymn as we honor and praise our God. “Christ, we do all adore Thee, and we do praise Thee forever…” Some might wonder how we could sing this song in preparing our minds for this memorial supper, but notice the second line, “…for on the holy cross hast Thou the world from sin redeemed…” How much more do we need to remind ourselves of His sacrifice? Christ, we DO all adore Thee!

“Sun of My Soul” – 806
“Jesus, Lover of My Soul” – 807
“Abide with Me” – 808

This medley is prearranged in the hymnal Faith & Praise, edited by Alton Howard. Consider the message; in a lost (drifting) and dark world, where do you go to find light and stability? In this physical world we have a sun shining in our sky, but in the spiritual realm, what is our source illumination? The ‘sun for our soul’ is our Savior! And our Savior, as the storms of life threaten and the waters roll, He cares for us and loves us. So it only makes sense that we would cry out, “Abide with me, fast falls the eventide…(the end of life)” The message for the Christian is clear, without our God we have no hope. No comfort in this earth or even in earthly friends. Jesus Christ is our help when we are helpless, He is the ‘lover’ of our souls and He shines as the sun of our souls!

“My Hope is Built on Nothing Less” – 538

Do you have an opinion, what do you think? Where do you stand? Are you solid about your position or are you able to be swayed? Questions like these are used to establish one’s belief. Where is your ‘stand’ when it comes to the hope that is within you? (I Peter 3:15) As for me, my hope is built on the blood of Jesus Christ… and on nothing less! On Christ, the solid Rock I stand! How about you?

“We Have an Anchor” – 467

Before the lesson this morning the congregation will sing to one another with this old, post-Civil War, spiritual song from Priscilla Owens (1874). Take note of the question and answer we sing to one another in psalms, hymns and spiritual songs; Will your anchor hold in the storms of life? As the winds begin to howl and the waves behind to roll we ask the question, will your anchor drift or firm remain? Singing to one another we answer from scripture (Hebrews 6:19), “We have an anchor that keeps the soul steadfast and sure while the billows roll, fastened to the Rock (Jesus Christ) which cannot move, grounded firm and deep in the Savior’s love.”

“Behold a Stranger at the Door” – 919

Our invitation song calls our attention to Jesus and how we treat Him. Jesus came to ‘seek and save that which was lost’ Luke 19:10, but how do we treat Him as He comes to the door of our heart? He gently knocks, and for some, this isn’t the first time. For many He still waits to enter into the heart, but how is He treated? Received or rejected? Accepted or ignored? Joseph Grigg’s wrote, “…you treat no other friend so ill.” Receive your friends with open arms, but consider how you’ll treat the Son of God on a daily basis.

“Heaven Came Down” – 517

As this morning’s worship service comes to a close we’ll sing this spiritual song about living a Christian life. A beautiful message but notice the second verse; “Born of the Spirit with life from above into God’s family divine. Justified fully through Calvary’s love, O what a standing is mine! (Where DO you stand?) And the transaction so quickly was made, when as a sinner I came. Took of the offer of grace He did proffer, He saved me! O praise His dear name…” To proffer is to give a gift expecting an answer, either accept it or not. He has given us hope for eternal life. What will you do with is offer? Just keep in mind, when we accept God’s gift of love, we have an anchor to keep our soul from drifting.

1, July 9, 20131, June 19, 2013

Do We Want More? (part 2)

Oliver is a young, orphan boy who, at the tender age of nine, lives each day with other orphans at the ‘workhouse.’ His daily routine is much like every boy in the orphanage. He isn’t a trouble maker, but he does something no one else is willing to do. After finishing his bowl of gruel (porridge), with a trembling hand, he returns to food line and utters the famous line, “Please Sir, I want some more…”

Charles Dickens authors this literally piece and many have adapted Oliver Twist to their own version of orphans and the homeless. The story is an interesting one, but our focus is centered on the words of this fictitious nine-year old, “…I want some more.” If we’re truthful with ourselves we would admit that each of us, in some form or fashion want more. But as we’ve studied previous, what more do we want?

Let’s continue the study of the hymn written and composed by Philip Bliss in 1873. Interestingly enough, this song was penned less than 35 years after Dickens wrote Oliver Twist. As you might remember, we sing the word ‘more’ twenty-four (24) times during the course of song “More Holiness Give Me”. Let’s continue our deeper examination of what more we could possibly be aspiring toward.

In verse two we sing (and seek); more gratitude, more trust, more pride and more hope . More tears, more pain, more meekness and more praise. One by one we consider what are we asking God to give us ‘more’ of:

1) More gratitude give me… Our prayers are often laced with thankfulness. We’re thankful for the day, the food, the good night’s rest so why ask for more thankfulness? Gratitude is synonymous with thankfulness but often we ramble out our prayer of thanks without processing why we have what we have. God has given us EVERYTHING! For that alone we should have gratitude. Personally, I don’t get tired of hearing thank you from my children. Do you suppose God is the same?

2) More trust in the Lord… David wrote in Psalm 20:7, “Some boast (trust) in chariots and some in horses, But we will boast (trust) in the name of the Lord, our God.” With some much self-proclaimed wisdom, our culture and this present generation has come to trust in self. So much has been accomplished and achieved during the last 50 years we have become masters in our own right. What do we trust? Who do we trust? Would that we prayer for more trust in the Lord. “…the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.”

3) More pride in His glory. Each of us knows the swell of pride we feel when our team is victorious. We take pride in knowing we have succeeded in this task or that accomplishment. But more pride in HIS glory means I take pride in giving God glory. We humble ourselves and take pride in knowing our God, He is Alive.

4) More hope in His word. The word “hope” can mean to long for something, wish for it; or it can mean trust or confidence. Our hope in God’s word is not to wish for it to be what it claims to be, but to put our trust and our confidence in His word. You’ll remember we sang that we pray for more trust in the Lord (previous line), and now we turn our prayer to be confident (hope) in His word!

5) More tears for His sorrows. Each week we gather and remember the Lord’s death, burial and resurrection. With the Lord’s Supper we keep Jesus’ sacrifice every in our minds and hearts. But be careful that this time doesn’t become routine. Remember the words of Isaiah (chapter 53) when he prophesy’s about the Messiah saying, “…He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief…” (KJV) Do we weep when we consider His death? We need more tears for His sorrows.

6) More pain at His grief. Again, looking to Isaiah 53 we are reminded of His grief. As we sing this hymn we are asking that we feel the pain, as we shed the tears, for our Savior’s grief. Undoubtedly you’ve said something like, “That breaks my heart!” Simply an expression of pain for someone’s grief. Does Jesus’ suffering (grief) break your heart?

7) More meekness in trial. My mind immediately goes to the book of Matthew and the words of Jesus in the 5th chapter, “…whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also.” (vs. 39) But we shouldn’t be surprised when we consider what Jesus said just a few sentences earlier (vs. 5), “Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.” When someone slaps you down (trials), are you fighting mad…or meekly enduring?

8) More praise for relief. In baseball there is a position known as the ‘relief pitcher.’ The man who take over for the ‘starting’ pitcher. He may be there because the starter was injured or perhaps just exhausted. Either way, there is a relief for the starter. In the sport of baseball the relief pitcher isn’t always praised. He may fail to ‘provide’ the relief he was called to deliver. But in the case of Jesus, He is our answer to the injury and exhaustion we feel on a daily basis. He is our relief, our salvation, and He never fails. When we understand and accept Him in that way, we’ll know that we need to give Him more praise for our salvation…He is our relief…

We’ll continue this song in later weeks, but until that time take a look at the last verse of this song; there are still eight more…’mores’.

1, July 1, 20131, July 1, 2013

LTC…Be Devoted

In the spring of 2009 this group of young men came together to praise God with their voices. They practiced for weeks on end to learn how to harmonize and lift before the Father several songs of praise. These boys were ‘devoted’ to giving God the glory and sought to encourage those who listened. Though the years have passed and they’ve ‘grown and moved away,’ they continue to uplift and edify God’s people with songs of praise. Take a few minutes to hear their voices and listen to them as they praise the Father. A memory from the 2009, Leadership Training for Christ.

LTC (Leadership Training for Christ) has been a constant focus for the Waterview church of Christ for more than 30 years. Students have studied, practiced and devoted months to reading the scripture, Bible bowl, singing with small groups, and song leading as well as public speaking (sermon preparation), sign language and many other areas of preparation to serve in the kingdom of God. All the while, these young people are being trained and encouraged to give God the glory.

In 2009, seventeen young men (now in college or college graduates) came together to sing 3 songs with the hope of edifying the congregation and glorifying their God. These men sang three songs, Surround Us, Lord, and a medley consisting of Poured Out Like Wine, Make Me New, Teach Me Thy Ways and I Am Mine No More. They concluded with a song taken from the text of Galatians 6:2 and Romans 12:10-13, Be Devoted.

My prayer is that you will enjoy listening to these young men as they praise God with the voice of youth. The first song, Surround Us, Lord comes from the book of Psalms, chapter 125, verse 2… “As the mountains surround Jerusalem, So the Lord surrounds His people From this time forth and forever.” When times are difficult and the way seems hard, don’t forget; the Lord surrounds His people!

The concluding song, Be Devoted, took lots of practice and work. As noted earlier, the words are taken from Galatians 6 and Romans 12. Notice how clearly this passage speaks to our relationship with each other: “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.”

Carry each other’s burdens
Carry each other’s burdens
And in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ

Chorus:
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love
Honor one another above yourselves
Never be lacking in zeal
Keep your spiritual fervor
Keep your spiritual fervor
Serving the Lord

Love one another
Serve one another
Pray for each other
Encourage one another
And build each other up

Chorus:

Be devoted to one another in brotherly love

Thanks guys for the reminder from years gone by. My prayer is that you will stay faithful to God’s word and honor your song to be devoted in brotherly love. We are reminded by your song that we are to be poured out before the King, commit ourselves to being new (putting off the old self) and then seek to have Him teach us His ways. When we do that, we will no longer be our own. May God bless each of you and your walk with Christ.

1, June 21, 20131, June 20, 2013

Show & Tell Time…June 23rd

Ask any grade school child and they can tell you all about ‘Show & Tell.’ This is the time to share with your friends something you cherish and hold as very dear. It’s an exciting time because it’s about something you know very well. Something that is close to you and personally dear.

‘Show and Tell,’ however is not just a child’s activity. The child of God is also called to participate in this activity. What will you show and how much are you willing to tell about your Savior? Is your life as a Christian something you cherish and hold dear? If we’re truly excited about our walk with Christ we will ‘love to tell story’, and we’ll show Him to the world.

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

Sunday morning, June 23, 2013

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

“Blessed Be the Lord God Almighty” – 72

A beautiful hymn that is clearly directed to our God. We begin with the phrase, “Father in Heaven, how we love You…” Almost as if we’re saying a prayer this song begins our worship as we SING a prayer. Consider how we sing scripture in the last part of this song, “…the Lord God almighty, who was and is and is to come…” the words of our Lord and Savior from Revelation chapter 1, verse 8.

“We Praise Thee, O God” – 2

“Hallelujah” is derived from the Hebrew as two words; “halla”, praise and “Yah”, God. We know that but it’s good to revisit what we’re singing. Translated the chorus would read like this…”Praise God! The glory belongs to Him, Praise God! Amen…”

“There is a Sea” – 556

If you’ve never followed the message of this song read on. There is poetry within these three short verses and with a rather difficult harmony, we often skip over this old, spiritual song. In the first verse we sing about a sea that is surrounded with an abundance of natural resources and coastal nourishment; the Sea of Galilee. From it flows the Jordan river down toward the Dead Sea where the second verse of our song continues. Unlike the Galilean sea, the Dead Sea is filled with salt and, ‘lies heavy as molten lead.’ Singing the third verse we can see the application and the question is asked, “What will it be for you and me…?” Will we be like the Sea of Galilee and give out the good we have been given, or will we remain stagnate in our life and refuse to share the God-given gifts we have in life?

“Holy Bible, Book Divine” – no book

This is an old spiritual songs with the tune (meter) of another, more familiar song. We’ll replace the music William B. Bradbury gave this song in 1858 to a musical arrangement provided by J. H. Fillmore in 1877. You’ll recognize “Savior, Grant Me Rest and Peace”, but you’ll be singing, “Holy Bible, Book Divine.” This is a great opportunity to learn a new song with an old melody!

“I Love to Tell the Story” – 659

We talk about all the things we love in life, but before our lesson we’ll sing about ‘loving to tell’ the story of Jesus Christ. Do you enjoy (love) to tell about Jesus? Each of these verses are filled with the reason we should not only sing about our Savior, but look forward to telling others about Him too. Why sing about the story, because “I know ’tis (it is) true”, and because “…it means so much to me.” How can we sing this song without putting a smile on our faces?

“Lord Speak to Me” – 771

Not a typical invitation song, but when we consider showing and telling this world about Jesus Christ I couldn’t help but think of this last verse; “O fill me with Thy fulness, Lord. Until my very heart o’re (over) flow; In kindling tho’t (as an ember begins to burn and glow in our thoughts) and glowing word, Thy love to TELL, Thy praise to SHOW.” People need a Savior, let’s take Jesus for OUR show and tell!

“Thomas’ Song” – 269

An adaptation of Thomas and how he might have reacted in John 20. Notice especially verse 3 of this song. Perhaps in the upper room, when Thomas see’s Jesus for the first time since His resurrection, the poet Ken Young, writes; “Holy presence, holy face; a vision filling time and space. Your nearness makes my spirit race, could this be part of the plan?” When we are moved and emotional invested in something we have the sensation that our heart is racing. Maybe, just maybe, Thomas’ spirit was racing when he saw Jesus. Does Jesus cause your heart (spirit) to race? Though this song is man’s idea of what John might have said, felt or even thought, the text is clear as we read his final admonition, “You are my Lord and my God.” John 20:28

“Lead Me To Calvary” – 332

Between the Bread and the Fruit of the Vine we’ll sing verse 2 of this solemn reminder of Christ crucifixion. “Show me the tomb where Thou wast (was) laid…” , where angels robed in light guarded Christ ‘while He slept.’ In our minds eye we should use this time to reflect on Calvary…lest we forget.

“Ring Out the Message” – 622

“Tell the world of saving grace, make it known in every place…” The local ‘town crier’ was responsible to getting the message out to the community. They had the job to ‘ring the message out.’ Today, all Christians have the task to take the message to a lost community. We believe there is a message that’s true and makes the weary glad, but more importantly…it’s a message for the sinful and for the sad. We don’t have to stand on a street corner and cry out the message, but we need to be ready when it’s time for “Show & Tell”.

1, June 19, 20131, June 18, 2013

Hymnology…A Look at the 1700’s

Richard Dent’s research and writing will again grace this website as we look at Hymnology in some general terms.

Have you ever thought that there are ‘rules’ for congregational singing? In this report we’ll look at some ideas from Wesley, Watts and Newton. Let’s consider how we can benefit from knowing more about the history of singing within Christiandom and the Lord’s church.

The mid 1700’s was a time of revival – a great awakening in the colonies as well as England. Charles Wesley picked up where Isaac Watts had left off. He, Wesley, wrote thousands of hymns; some scholars say almost 9,000. Some of his works are in our hymnal, Faith & Praise: “Love Divine” (page #140, written in 1747); “O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing” (page #233, written in 1739); “Christ the Lord is Risen Today” (page #345, written in 1739) and “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” (page #1001, written in 1739).

In one of his books, Charles Wesley listed seven rules for congregational singing:

1) Learn selected tunes before learning others.
2) Sing them exactly as they were printed.
3) Sing all (all people). See that you join the congregation as frequently as you can.
4) Sing lustily (powerful, with vigor) and with good courage. Beware of singing as if you were half dead or asleep.
5) Sing modestly. Do not bawl so as to be heard above the rest of the congregation so as to destroy the harmony of the group.
6) Sing in time. Do not run ahead nor stay behind.
7) Above all, sing spiritually. Have an eye for God in every word you sing. Aim at pleasing Him more than yourself.

(We’ll come back and visit these ideas next week…)

In the wake of the Watts and the Wesleys, whole generations of hymnists rose up and produced some of the grandest music in the church. Some of these hymns are “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah” (page 844) by William Williams in 1745. He was known as the Watts of Wales.

Other memorable hymns include, “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing” (page #226) was written by Robert Robinson in 1758; “Rock of Ages” (page #454) written by Augustus Toplady in 1776; and “Amazing Grace” (page #129) written by John Newton in 1779. Have you noticed the years these old hymns were penned? Let’s recap the timeline of just these few hymns of prayer and praise:

1739..”Hark! The Herald Angels Sing;
“O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing” and
“Christ the Lord is Risen Today”

1745…”Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah”

1747…”Love Divine”

1758…”Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing”

1776…”Rock of Ages”

1779…”Amazing Grace”

An exceptional collection of hymns that have survived the years. Actually, over 200 years! And we would be amiss to forget the back ground behind Newton’s hymn “Amazing Grace.” Remember that John Newton was a slave trader on the high seas. By his account, an evil and vile man who, following his conversion to Christ became a changed man, and then opposed the slave trading business in the British empire. There is one verse we have nearly forgot, it reads…“The earth shall soon dissolve like snow, the sun forbear to shine. But God, who called me here below, shall be forever mine.”

Understanding the back ground behind what we sing will help us appreciate why we sing. Though hymnology, the study of hymns, may not be exciting for many, I truly believe it is imperative for all. Thanks again to my uncle, Richard Dent, for reminding us of the history of some great songs of faith and praise.