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

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

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

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

Sunday morning, January 5, 2014

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

“We Praise Thee, O God” – 2

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

“In Christ Alone” -no book

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

“Fairest Lord Jesus” – 288

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

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

“Take Time to Be Holy” – 731

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

“A New Creature” – 619

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

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

“Hold To God’s Unchanging Hand” – 613

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

1, December 27, 2013

A Compelled or Committed Disciple?…Dec. 29th

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

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

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

Sunday morning, December 29, 2013

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

“I Stand in Awe” 96

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

“Leaning on the Everlasting Arms” – 589

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

“Holy, Holy, Holy” – 47

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

“Must Jesus Bear the Cross Alone” – 319

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

“Beneath the Cross” – 314

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

“I Want to Be a Worker” – no book

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

“Where He Leads Me I Will Follow” – 876

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

“To the Work, To the Work” – no book

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

1, October 25, 20131, October 25, 2013

He Who Has Ears, Let Him Hear…Oct. 27th

Have you ever considered the difference between hearing and listening? We hear the sound of the traffic on the highway, but we listen when the driver behind us honks. In frustration some may say, “Yeah, I hear you!” But though their ears have heard the voice, the mind hasn’t processed (or even rejects) the message. Many today would say, “I hear you, but I’m not listening to you.” This can be a dangerous mistake for sure.

This Sunday morning we’re blessed to ‘listen’ to another lesson presented by one of our own ministers, Robert Taylor. Come join us for worship and do more than just hear a good sermon, open your ears and listen to the message from God’s holy word? Join us as we explore God’s Word and consider how we’ll use our ears!

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

Sunday morning, October 27, 2013

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

“What a Mighty God We Serve” -993

Technically, this isn’t a difficult song. The words are repetitive and the message is a basic reminder; “What a mighty God we serve! What a mighty God we serve! Angels bow before Him, heaven and earth adore Him. What a mighty God we serve!” You hear the message, but are you listening to what you’re saying? He IS mighty and He is worthy to be served…but HOW are you serving Him?

“O Thou Fount of Every Blessing” – 226

This author has talked in depth of the interpretation of this hymn written in old English Robert Robinson in the mid-1700’s. Words like “Ebenezer”, “fetter” and “interpose” have left many to discard this song as antiquated. But we must do more than just sing (hear) this message from yesteryear. Listen to the meaning when you sing verse three; “O to grace how great a debtor daily I’m constrained to be! {I know, and can never forget, the grace God gives me every day will never be repaid} Let Thy goodness like a fetter bind my wandering heart to Thee; {Father, please keep your loving kindness tied around my heart} Prone to wander, Lord I feel it, prone to leave the God I love. {I am all to liable to wander away from you, like a little child, please keep close to You}. Here’s my heart, O take and seal it, seal it for Thy courts above.” {As a matter of fact, take my heart and keep it in Your care until you call me home.}

“In Christ Alone” – no book

Consider this song of encouragement as we prepare our minds to commemorate our Lord’s death, burial and resurrection. We begin this song recognizing our Cornerstone, solid ground and Comforter as Christ…alone. Verse two takes us from His birth to His crucifixion and for those who know this song ‘listen’ to the emotion found in the third verse. And though we begin softly singing of His burial, our voices ‘burst forth’ as we proclaim His resurrection. The final verse gives us the assurance of our security in Christ. Children of God understand that, “…no power of hell, no scheme of man can ever pluck me from His hand…”

“I Am Mine No More” – 683

Though the author and composer of this song are unknown, the message is very clear. Would that we do more than just say, “I am mine no more…”, but that our lives would reflect a change in our priority. When you say something is more important than something else, it’s only proven by your next step. The difference between hearing and listening…

“Open Our Eyes Lord” – 766

Written in 1976, this song calls us to open our eyes and see how Jesus is alive in our world. But Robert Cull goes a step further as he penned the next verse; “Open our eyes, Lord and help us to listen…” My daddy would tell us boys, ‘You have one mouth and two ears…you should listen twice as much as you talk’ We might not be bigger talkers, but how are we with looking for God and listening to His words?

“Heaven Came Down” – 517

As we prepare for this morning’s lesson, let’s 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! 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 salvation. What will you do with His offer? Everyone in the auditorium will hear the offer, but will you listen to the message?

“Only a Step” – 940

How far away from God do you think you are? What kind of step(s) do you need to take to get right with Christ? Our invitation song begins with the call to “Hear the sweet voice of Jesus…” It all starts with hearing the message, but how many will listen to the ‘call?’ In John 14:6, Jesus says, “I am the way…No one comes to the Father except through Me.” The writer of this song encourages us with the understanding that Jesus is only a step away. Those who have been baptized into Christ at one time stepped into the watery grave of baptism. If you are not a child of God and you wonder how far away is He? The answer is simple…He’s only a step away.

“I’ll Be Listening” – 988

As a young boy, when my mother called…I had better answer. If I heard her and choose not to respond (refuse to listen), the consequences might include holding my dad’s hand. All the while he held a switch with his other. We hear God’s call and many have listened to His message of salvation. He will call again at the end of time, but though ‘every knee will bow’ (everyone will listen then), only those who have been faithful will be received. “When the Savior calls, I will answer…I’ll be somewhere listening for my name!”

1, October 18, 2013

Are You A Citizen?…October 13th

Philip Nolan was a fictitious Army Lieutenant for the Union during the American Civil War. Accused of being an accomplice of treason he is put on trial. During his testimony, in anger, he renounces his country shouting, “I wish I may never hear of the United States again!” Shocked by the outburst of defiance, with cold resolve the judge grants him his wish. Nolan is sentenced to spend the rest of his life aboard United States Navy warships, in exile, with no right ever again to set foot on U.S. soil. The final element of punishment is that no one shall ever mention his country to him again. He becomes, the ‘Man without a Country.’

Citizenship in a country is a sign of belonging. It establishes your rights and your membership. If you are not a citizen of a country (or a community), you have no voice or privilege within that country/community. Our lesson this Sunday asks the question with no clarification, simply…’are you a citizen?’ Join us as we consider our citizenship.

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

Sunday morning, October 8, 2013

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

“Hallelujah! Praise Jehovah” 3

A beautiful song of praise to our God…read Psalm 148 and you will better understand the power and majesty of this ‘psalm’ of praise.

“Seek Ye First” – 555

A contemporary psalm (song from the scripture) that I remember singing around the campfire. A ‘teen’ song that inspires the singer/listener to seek God first. Open your Bible to Matthew 6:33 and sing, “but seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you…”

“Hallelujah, What a Savior” – 337

Another psalm as we consider the words of Isaiah in his 53rd chapter…“He is despised and rejected by men, a Man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. And we hid, as it were, our faces from Him; He was despised, and we did not esteem Him.” But consider this verse carefully as you sing…”Guilty, vile and helpless we; (we are not innocent, we are disgusting (vile) and unable to take care of ourselves. Jesus, however, is the Lamb of God, who is without blemish (spotless). Is it possible (can it be) therefore, that we can have full atonement (cleansing) from our guilty, vile and helpless situation? The answer is yes and our response is simple…“Hallelujah! What a Savior.”

“Sweet Adoration” – 253

“Sweet adoration comes from Your children…” Do we admire our God and tell Him that in our songs? More than saying it, do we live it? Can the world see our glory and honor and praise to God as a part of our constant devotion?

“My Hope is Built on Nothing Less” – 538

On Christ…the SOLID Rock I stand! Where do you stand?

“Jesus, Let Us Come to Know You” – 768

Not your typical invitation song, but this spiritual song calls us to say to our Lord, ‘Jesus, let us come to know You.’ We’ll never know Him, until we give our lives to Him!

“When the Roll is Called Upon Yonder” – 852

The teacher takes roll in class for the simple purpose to find out “who’s there.” This song was born from the same idea, but looking toward eternity. When life is over, when the Lord is ‘taking roll’ will our name be called? When the ‘roll is called’ up yonder…will you be there?

1, September 27, 20131, September 27, 2013

The Opportunity of Weakness…September 29th

This Sunday, Robert Taylor will bring the morning lesson here at Waterview. As we consider ‘The Opportunity of Weakness’ my first thought comes from the pen of Paul in II Corinthians. Having an opportunity to be weak almost seems like a contradiction in terms. But perhaps we need to look at the words of Christ as He says, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.”
II Corinthians 12:9

In 1948 J.R. Baxter wrote the melancholy hymn, Just a Closer Walk with Thee. The first verse seems to sum up Paul’s ‘thorn in the flesh’ issues from II Corinthians as we sing, “I am weak, but Thou art strong…” Join us on Sunday morning as we take a look at the opportunity of weakness.

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

Sunday morning, September 29, 2013

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

“Let Every Heart Rejoice and Sing” 8

“Let every heart rejoice and sing!” Our opening song this morning will focus us on the praise we should be giving to our God and Father. Notice the chorus; “…while the rocks and the rills (streams), while the vales (valleys) and the hills a glorious anthem raise…” All creation speaks of His glory; so should we!

“As the Deer” – 71

A contemporary song taken from the 42nd chapter of the Psalms. Have you ever been so thirst you felt you might ‘dry up and blow away?’ To have just a small drink of water on a hot, miserable day would be great. But do we ‘pant’ (earnestly desire) our God as much as H2O. Rest assured, we will ‘dry up’ in this life without Him. Let’s live so we can say our hearts ‘long to worship’ Him.

“Lead Me to Calvary” – 332

Turning our minds to the cross we sing the following words (from the 2nd verse), ‘Show me the tomb where Thou wast (was) laid, tenderly mourned and wept; angels in robes of light arrayed guarded Thee whilest (while) Thou slept.’ A couple of things to notice; Jesus slept for 3 days (Matt. 16:21). He wasn’t in the grave to ‘undergo decay,’ (Acts 13:37) because we know He lives. But also, ‘…angels in robes of light ARRAYED…’. Interesting to realize the definition for array (besides fine clothes/dress) is an ‘orderly, often imposing alignment.’ Maybe this line is referencing the angels as they ‘guarded the tomb’, and not so much their white, ‘light’, robes.

“Til My Faith Because Sight” – 836

A beautiful song of our faith! See how we reference our Savior in the two verses; “Bread of Life, Living Water, Lover of my soul, Lamb of God, hope of glory, Savior…crucified”, certainly we are singing a hymn to Him…precious holy Lord and King! But how about that line in the chorus, ‘though they slay me’, what if ‘I fall in darkness’…will I still remain faithful? He is your light in this dark world. But you must ask yourself, will I be faithful until He returns?

“Wonderful Love of Jesus” – 308

An older song of praise with a repetitive, catchy chorus, “Wonderful love, wonderful love, wonderful love of Jesus!” But what does “In vain and high and holy lays…”, actually mean? Consider our songs (our lays, ballads), do we offer them up (raise them on high) for nothing? Obviously we want to sing from our hearts and offer a pleasing sacrifice of praise from our lips. But the context of vain in this song is not ‘useless’, but rather far from worthy of our God and King. Defined; vain is “lacking substance or worth.” We should sing with all our heart, and strive to give Him our best in this sacrifice of praise.

“Father Hear the Prayer We Offer” – 777

“Father, hear the prayer we offer; nor for ease that prayer shall be, but for strength that we may ever live our lives courageously.” I wonder if sometimes we pray for things to be good for us (easy), rather than asking for strength to stand firm in the fight against Satan. And not just strength to ‘carry on’, but strength to be steadfast, faithful and loyal in the life we live for Christ and His church.

“Soldier’s of Christ, Arise” – 647

Before the lesson this morning we’ll sing a song that dates back to mid-1700’s. Charles Wesley penned the words that echo Ephesians 6, the armor of God. Notice the progression of the verses. Verse 1‘…put your armor on…’ . Verse 2, “…who in the strength of Jesus trusts, is more than conqueror.” Verse 3, “…take to arm you (arm yourself) for the fight the panoply (the complete set of armor) of God.” Verse 4, “Leave no unguarded place…fortify the whole.” Verse 5, “That having all things done (when life is over)…you may o’ercome thru Christ alone…” Soldiers, we fight various battles every day, but never forget, Christ has won the war!

“Hark the Gentle Voice of Jesus” – 907

Our invitation song is simple; are you weary, do you labor in this life, are you ‘heavy-laden?’ Come, and Christ will give you rest. And that ‘yoke’ we sing about in verses 2 & 3…it’s a source of connection for us with Christ; we are yoked with Him in His suffering. But the rest He offers makes the burden lighter.

“Hilltops of Glory” – no book

An older spiritual song that encourages us as we ‘tread life’s way.’ As we live for Christ and strive to serve Him we look homeward and catch a glimpse of the Hilltops of Glory. Maybe we should be better about asking each other, “…brother won’t you come go with me?”

1, September 6, 20131, September 9, 2013

A Trip to the Beauty Salon…September 8th

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

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

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

Sunday morning, September 8, 2013

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

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

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

“How Beautiful” – 365

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

“O Lord, You’re Beautiful” – 275

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

“In His Time” – 839

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

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

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

“Victory in Jesus” – 470

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

“Just As I Am” – 924

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

“Let Me Live Close to Thee” – 831

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

1, August 2, 20131, August 1, 2013

A Theology Written in Blood…August 4th

Christian’s understand and believe that faith is based on an eternal promise, an everlasting covenant. And as we consider a covenant, it’s logical to conclude that it should be confirmed in writing. But one written, confirmed, with blood? Obviously a holy promise, a divine theology, that is written in blood must be of the highest importance. Since blood is essential to life, it’s no surprise that this covenant is indispensable for our eternal survival as well. Simply stated, without blood…we die!

Remember Romans 3; “…all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood – to be received by faith.” Thanks be to God for this theology, written in blood!

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

Sunday morning, August 4, 2013

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

“Nothing But the Blood” -902

‘What can wash away my sins?’ A question many have sung for years, and we know the answer, ‘…nothing, but the blood of Jesus.’ When we sing the third verse take note of the second line in the verse, ‘naught of good that I have done…’ Translated; of all the good things I have done in this life, ZERO of that can atone for my sin. Nothing can bring us to God except the blood of Jesus.

“There is Power in the Blood” – 903

As part of this short medley we’ll continue our thought about the blood of Jesus and His saving power. We continue with another question. Not what can wash away my sin, but a question of do you want your sins to be washed away? ‘Would you be free from the burden of sin?’ Is so, the blood of Jesus can cleanse you.

“In Christ Alone” – no book

A song of admonition that we’ll sing as we prepare our minds to partake of the Lord’s supper. A memorial of His death, burial and resurrection. As verse one consist of recognizing 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…’ This video features one man’s voice, harmonizing together to the glory of God.

“Nearer Still Nearer” – 478

Following the Lord’s supper we’ll sing this hymn expressing a strong desire to stay ‘close to (His) Thy heart…’ Listen to the words you’re singing and you’ll notice that the nearer we draw to God, the further we draw away from sin and its folly (foolishness). Would that we willingly resign, give up, all of life’s pleasures, pomp and pride so that we draw nearer…still nearer to our God.

“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, O my Father, for giving us Your Son and leaving with us the gift of Your Holy Spirit…until (the work) our work on earth is done.” Maybe we should be asking ourselves, ‘How am I doing with my work?’

“There’s a Royal Banner” – 627

Before we listen to the lesson Robert has prepared for us, we’ll sing about our mission as Christians. The purpose of this ‘song before the lesson’ is found in the second verse. ‘Over land and sea, wherever man may dwell, make the glorious tidings known; of the CRIMSON BANNER now the story tell, while the Lord shall claim His own…’ In Exodus 17, after the Amalekites are defeated, we read, “Moses built an altar and called it The Lord is my Banner…” The banner is a symbol from the battlefield. As soldier’s of Christ we too have a symbolic banner; one that’s crimson, blood red. Do you fly this banner in your life?

“There’s a Fountain Free” – 909

Perhaps one of my favorite invitation songs has the chorus ask the question, “Will you come to the fountain free?” When we consider the words of Jeremiah the prophet we better understand the fountain; “O Lord, the hope of Israel, All who forsake You will be put to shame. Those who turn away on earth will be written down, Because they have forsaken the fountain of living water, even the Lord.” (Jeremiah 17:13) It’s interesting to me that 3 times the author writes ‘hasten’ (come quickly) to the fountain. Yet sadly, in this ‘fast-paced world’, the ‘living stream’ is the one place many are slow to approach.

“There is a Habitation” – 860

Leaving this morning we’ll encourage each other with these simple words; ‘…I long to see heaven!’ How ready are you for the Lord’s return? Is the abode you seek eternal? The heavenly city we seek has a foundation that’s firm and eternal. One we can anticipate because of the atonement we have through the blood of Christ.

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, June 7, 20131, June 7, 2013

Jesus’ Plan For Drawing Us to God…June 9th

The scripture reading on Sunday morning at Waterview will be coming from John chapter 3, verses 9-15. Notice the words of Jesus as He says, “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up…” The text of this reading is the basis for our lesson.

In Numbers 21 we read of the rebellion among the people against God. He sends ‘fiery serpents’ that plague the people, and many died because of their rebellion. The Lord’s instruction however was clear, “Make a fiery (bronze) serpent, and set it on a standard; and it shall come about that everyone who is bitten, when he looks at it, he will live.” The Jews were told if they wanted healing, they simply needed to come to ‘the standard’ that was raised in the wilderness. The songs this morning are designed to focus us on the saving power of Christ and His plan to draw us toward God.

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

Sunday morning, June 9, 2013

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

“To God Be the Glory” – 4

One of several great songs of praise, this hymn was written by Fanny J. Crosby in 1875. It always amazes me when I read the words of this woman who was blind from birth. In this hymn she writes, ‘…let the earth hear His voice…’ and obvious statement coming from someone whose sense of hearing was likely well developed. But I’m more intrigued by her words in the last verse. Never having seen the light of day, Fanny Crosby writes, “…But purer and higher, and greater will be our wonder, our transport, when Jesus we SEE.” Praise the Lord!

“My Only Hope is You” – no book

The beauty of this song comes as it builds upon each verse. Some may consider this a ‘7-11 song’ (7 words sung 11 times), yet the repetition and development of the thought should take precedence. From early in the morning, until late at night, Jesus is my only HOPE, PEACE, and JOY. The fourth verse sums it up best… “All that I need is You, Jesus, all that I need is You…” Listen to the song below, but Sunday we’ll sing it without the soloist.

“More Precious Than Silver” – 273

A simple hymn that implores us to consider how we view (yes, spend) our wealth. To what, in this life, do you dedicate your prosperity? Another song that’s easy to sing…but perhaps not so easy to fulfill. Really, what is it that you desire?

“I Come to the Garden Alone” – 595

Written from the perspective of Mary as she comes to the garden after Christ burial, you can see her emotional pull to be with Jesus, the soothing comfort of His voice and the longing to stay with Him. C. Austin Miles captures the feeling Mary may have felt as we read John chapter 20. Perhaps with that understand we can sing this song differently; “…and He walks with me and He talks with me and He tells me I am His own, and the joy we share as we tarry there, none other has every know.” From Mary’s eyes, truer than we may have previously thought.

“We Saw Thee Not” – 342

An older hymn (again this is sung to our God) that brings the saints to a clearer understanding of Jesus life here on earth. None of us ever saw Christ or His ‘cottage home.’ We didn’t stand on Golgotha’s hill and see the soldiers ‘lift Him up’ on the cross, and none of us stooped down to look into the empty tomb. But together we’ll sing, “But we believe the deed was done, that shook the earth and veiled the sun.”

“Lift Him Up” – 631

How do we reach the masses? What can we do to show Jesus to a lost and dying world? Jesus told us that He would be lifted up so all men could come to Him. “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to Myself.” John 12:32 How do we reach men with Christ? Perhaps we start by lifting Him up in our own lives.

“I Am Thine, O Lord” – 666

Our song before the lesson implores us to draw nearer to God. Do we really long to rise in our faith, and truly seek to be closer drawn to Jesus? In the second verse we’ll sing that our souls look up with a steadfast faith, and our will be lost in Jesus. He was lifted up to draw us to Him…now will you look up to Him as you draw nearer in faith?

“Come to Jesus” – no book

In the chorus of this invitation song we’ll sing,“Come to Jesus!” Repeated more than 6 times, this old spiritual song implores the lost to seek His salvation. And like the Jews who were rebellious and bitten by the fiery serpents, we need to look up to the cross. But notice the admonition, “…Oh delay not till the morrow, lest thy coming be too late.”

“The Greatest Command” – 448

Though we sing with simplicity we sing with the scripture… “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love.” I John 4:7, 8 It’s easy to love the loveable, but what about those who persecute you and refuse to love you back? We can better understand how to love when we draw near to the One who was lifted up.

1, June 3, 20131, June 2, 2013

Lessons from a Pulpit

For those ‘church going’ folks, you know what the pulpit is. You’ve seen one almost every Sunday morning, and you know the preacher (most of the time) stands behind it to deliver a message for the word of God.

But sadly enough there are times when the message (the sermon) fails to live up to the position the pulpit represents. There are some who preach without the strength of understand and the conviction of word. Too many ‘softballs’ are lobbed out to the congregation making them feel secure, pacified and justified in their day-to-day activities. (Waterview church of Christ is the exception; Robert Oglesby’s Bible strong lessons challenge the status quo.) Still ask yourself, are the sermons you hear each week solid or soft. Will you hear a forward condemnation toward drunkenness, or quiet acceptance to social drinking? Do the sermons admonish the ladies to practice modesty, or are we fine with short skirts and tight tops? Are we concerned about the activities that accompany Prom Night? Or is that just ‘a right of passage’ for our young men and women? Are these activities (and others like them) discouraged from the pulpit?

Maybe, if we could have ‘seen’ the sermon 2000 years ago that held a crowd spell-bound for more than 6-hours we would understand what’s important in the walk with Christ. (Mark 15:25 we read, “It was about the third hour (9:00AM) when they crucified Him.” Then again in Luke 23:44-46 we notice, “It was about the sixth hour (noon), and darkness fell over the whole land until the ninth hour (3:00PM), because the sun was obscured; and the veil of the temple was torn in two. And Jesus, crying out in a loud voice, said, “Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit.” Having said this, He breathed His last.”)

For six hours (9:00 in the morning till 3:00 in the afternoon) people stood and watched the Savior die. Some passed by shaking their heads (Mark 15:29) while others, rulers and soldiers included, stood looking and listen to the lesson from our Lord. We remember the short statements He made while on the cross; “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.”, “Truly I say to you, today you shall be with Me in Paradise.”, “Woman, behold your son.”, “I thirst.” , “It is finished!” and several other short proclamations. But what lesson was taught on this dark day in Jerusalem over 2000 years ago? What life altering lesson can I learn from this sermon of all sermons?

The group Acapella recorded a song entitle, There Never was a Pulpit Like the Cross. As you listen to this song consider the message that came on Calvary. What was the crowd hearing on that dread day as Jesus was crucified for the sins of all mankind? If it’s been a while since you’ve read the account of Christ death, burial and resurrection I encourage you to read it again. Listen to the sermon that Jesus preaches as He hangs on the cross for man’s redemption.

1) Jesus climbed the hill of Calvary
And they nailed Him on a cross
Though He had no sin my friend, like me and you
He submitted like a gentle lamb and let them nail Him there
And prayed “Forgive them, for they know not what they do”
Chorus:
Oh, there never was a pulpit like the old rugged cross
And there never was such a meeting place as Calvary
There never was a greater lesson preached on love by mortal man
And there never was a pulpit like the cross

2) What a crowd was gathered on the hill of Calvary that day
Not long before Christ’s victory was won
As His own mother watched and wept beside a friend whom Jesus loved
Christ said, “Dear mother, when I’m gone, he’ll be your son”
Chorus

3) A guilty man was hanging on another cross that day
Convicted of some thievery, his sin
And suff’ring Jesus saw some good in him and he forgave that man
And said, “Today, into My Heaven enter in”
Chorus

4) As you sit and pray in comfort, and in finery adorned
Without a thought of shame, regret, or loss
Just think of Jesus on that hill in pain, to awful to be born
And remember that old pulpit called the cross
Chorus

No, there never was a pulpit like the cross