Author: mbruce

Myron Bruce is the Head of the School (President) for East Texas Christian Academy in Tyler, Texas. He has served as the Director of Development for Freed-Hardeman University, Associate Minister with the Faith Village church of Christ in Wichita Falls, Texas and Congregation Life Minister with the Waterview church of Christ in Richardson, Texas. Prior to the ministry, he served 15 years in public, charter and private education at all levels and in the states of Texas and Colorado. He and his wife, Vicki, met at Lubbock Christian College and married in August of 1989. His education includes a Bachelor Degree in K-12 Kinesiology, and a Masters in Educational Leadership at the University of Northern Colorado. They have three grown children; Logan, Emili & Dillon.
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The Start of the Great Commission…Nov. 2nd

If you ask a believer where to find ‘the Great Commission’ they would point you to Matthew chapter 28. But in all actuality the words great commission aren’t found in this passage or any other scripture for that matter. So why do we refer to some of Christ’s last words as a commission, and a great one at that? Or maybe we Great-Commissionshould be asking what is a commission and why is this one great?

The words of Christ found in Matthew 28:18-20 are as follow: “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always even to the end of the age.” The commission from Christ is to GO. The reason this commission is great is because of the mission…making (baptizing) disciples and teaching them about Christ. Sunday morning we’ll look and see how we can be an active part, perhaps even start ‘the Great Commission.’

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

Sunday morning, November 2, 2014

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

“Praise Him! Praise Him!” – 300

Opening our time together we’ll give our praise to God! Fulfilling the commission includes teaching, and in teaching we know we come to praise Him…ever in joyful song!

“Come Share the Lord” – 364

This contemporary song is a reminder of why we come together. “We gather here in Jesus name. His love is burning in our hearts like living flame. The One we love the most, is now our gracious host, come take the bread, come drink the wine (the fruit of the vine), come share the Lord…” Are you sharing your love for God? Will you tell others of His saving grace?

“Let the Lower Lights Be Burning” – 642

This older hymn is a strong example of evangelism. Looking toward the sea (of life), we see thousands adrift, and most don’t even realize their lost state. The Lighthouse (Jesus Christ) shines brightly calling for those who are seeking a refuge. We stand at the foot of the Lighthouse as the ‘lower lights’ direct and guide the weary traveler past the ‘treacherous shoal’ toward the light. Perhaps you need to check your light and see how brightly it’s shining. Remember, this is part of the Great Commission, directing those who are seeking.

“Send the Light” – 650

There is calling for all Christians every where to shine their light…albeit their lower light. As we strive to fulfill the commission Christ gave us more than 2000 years ago we have to ask ourselves if we’re really sending the light or if we’re holding it close. If you’re tired and would just as soon someone else do the work, then maybe you should sing the last verse of this song…“Let us not grow weary in the work of love…let us gather Lord-of-Harvestjewels for a crown above…”

“Far and Near” – 784

Our invitation song is one we don’t sing often, but one that explains more clearly the great commission. It finds root in Christ’s words to His disciples in Luke 10, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore beseech the Lord of harvest to send out laborers in His harvest. So we sing, “Lord of harvest send forth reapers, hear us Lord to Thee we cry. Send them now the sheaves to gather ‘ere the harvest time pass by.”

“The Gospel is for All” – no book

This is one of my favorites as we proclaim the fact that ALL can come to Christ. The blessed gospel is for all! We’ll sing this as we set aside time to give toward the Great Commission Sunday. Our mission work will be our focus this morning!

“Into Our Hands” – no book

Life is passing by quickly. Just take a look in the mirror see how many gray hairs are adorning your crown as opposed to 10 years ago. Or look at the pictures of your children you have hanging on the wall…from 20 years ago. “Swiftly we’re turning life’s daily pages…how are we using God’s golden moments, shall we reap glory…shall we reap tears?” We’ll sing this question, and we know what the answer should be, therefore we sing, “…into our hands the gospel is given, into our hands is given the light.” Fulfilling the great commission means we’re willing and ready to take the message from our hands to the hearts of those who are dying. Get ready and prepare yourself to start the great commission.

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Pumpkin Patch…

This time of year we not only feel the cool changes in the temperature, but we see the beautiful splash 125of autumn all around us. Perhaps nothing says ‘fall’ more than the collection taken from the pumpkin patch. Here’s an interesting connection a friend of mine shared that I couldn’t help but pass on to you. Enjoy the fall temperatures, the wonderful colors and the pumpkins from the pumpkin patch!

 

How is being a Christian like being a pumpkin?
Consider this idea for starters…

“God picks you up from the patch, (I Peter 2:9) brings you in and washes all the dirt off of you. (I Peter 3:21) Then He cuts off the top and scoops out all the yucky stuff. smiling pumpkin(Matthew 23:27) He removes the seeds of doubt, (James 1:6) hate, (I John 2:11) greed, (Luke 11:39) etc…and then He carves you a new smiling face. Finally He put His light inside of you to shine for all the world to see.” (II Corinthians 4:6-10)

 

Or it could read like this…

“But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light…” “Corresponding to that, baptism now saves you – not the removal of dirt from the flesh, but an appeal to God for a good conscience – through the resurrection of Jesus Christ…” At the same time, “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which on the outside appear beautiful, but inside they are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness.” But remember, “…the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind.” and “the one who hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in darkness…” So therefore, “…the Lord said to him, ‘Now then, you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and dish; because…inside you, you are full of greed and wickedness.’ ” And remember what God Himself said, “Light shall shine out of darkness,” He is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the Light of the knowledge of the glory of God and not from ourselves; we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body.”send the light

Enjoy the fall temperatures, take in the beautiful colors, and remember The Light when you carve your pumpkins from the pumpkin patch!

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Reading Your Own Future…Oct. 26th

What if you could tell the future? To know what’s coming up, would that be a good thing or would you be uncomfortable knowing there might be something not so pleasant just ahead of you? We take each day in stride because we trust in God’s providential power. But what if God Himself were to tell us what was coming? To know the future all we would need to do was read a message from Him. If the finger of God were to write you a note on the wall, would you read it?

Perhaps you’ve heard the phrase, “I can read the writing on the wall.” We use that statement King Belshazzar..to say we can see what’s about to happen. Not in a supernatural way, but that we can ‘read’ the situation. However, there was one man who really did see the hand writing on the wall. But for King Belshazzar, the message wasn’t very good (read Daniel chapter 5). Come worship with us on Sunday morning and we’ll give you a glimpse into ‘reading your own future.’

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

Sunday morning, October 26, 2014

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

“Soldiers of Christ, Arise” – 647

What a great spiritual song of encouragement as we inspire one another to get up and get ready for battle. Not a war between political parties or individual ideologies, but a battle against the spirit of darkness (Ephesians 6). Notice verse 3 in this song and ask yourself, ‘Am I putting on the panoply of God?’ The FULL armor of God, not some of the armor, not most of the armor, but all the armor of God.

“In Moments Like These” – 239

Staying with the same musical key we’ll segue from “…You may overcome through Christ alone and stand entire at last.” …to… “In moments like these, I sing out a song, I sing out a love song to Jesus…” Being soldiers in the Lord’s army should give us excitement beyond compare. Why? Because we have a King who has already won the battle. He has given us a look into our own personal future.

“When My Love to Christ Grows Weak” – 350

How do you cope with struggles in life? When your faith is weak and your love for mankind, and for jesus in the gardenChrist, seems to be wavering where do you turn? This song will remind us of His suffering and will perhaps strengthen our own resolve. “When my love to Christ grows weak, when for deeper faith I seek, then in thought I go to Thee (Jesus, to the…) Garden of Gethsemane!” In the garden, poetically, “I walk amid the shades, while the lingering twilight fades.” If you were there with Him in the garden, you would “see this suffering, friendless One, weeping, praying there alone.” So for those of us who struggle in our love for mankind, and desire a stronger faith, perhaps we should go again (poetically) to the “Hill of Calvary…to the scenes of fear and woe.” Because, “there (we will) behold His agony as He suffered on the bitter tree.” After taking this journey in our mind, we will be ready to turn back again to our lives having learned the worth of pain and the power that comes in a full self-sacrifice.

“Sweet Adoration” – 253

A contemporary song we’ll sing during the passing of the collection plate that speaks of our adoration to God. Sweet adoration, glory, praise and devotion are what we should be giving to our God. During the ‘contribution’ we give our money…but how much of our life are we contributing to God? Let’s give Him our all so we can say, it is ‘the Divine One who reigns in our hearts.’

“My Hope is Built on Nothing Less” – 538

We might not know the future events that will take place, but we do know what the future holds for God’s people. And knowing that we are His and He is victorious we have hope. Knowing that if we keep our hope (trust) in Christ and are ‘dressed in His righteousness alone,’ we’ll stand before His throne…faultless. Thanks be to God, we can read that handwriting on the wall.

“One Step at a Time” – no book

An older hymn written in the late 1800’s, we ask for Christ to walk with us one step at a time. In a world filled with terror and troubles, sickness and sin, we hold closest to the One who holds our future. That’s why we sing for patience in this first verse; “One step at a time, dear Savior: I can not take anymore, the flesh is so weak and hopeless, I know not what is before…” Though we know the outcome of this life, the promise that heaven’s mansions will appear, each day is still lived in uncertainty. Therefore we close our worship services with the following assurance…

“I Know Who Holds Tomorrow” – 463

“I don’t know about tomorrow, I just live from day to day…I don’t worry o’er the future, for I know what Jesus said, (Matthew 6:25-34) and today I’ll walk beside Him, for He knows what is ahead. Many things about tomorrow I don’t seem to understand, but I know who holds tomorrow, and I know who holds my hand.” King Belshazzar was reading his future as the finger of God wrote it out on a plaster wall. And it wasn’t until Daniel told him the meaning that He knew what it said. Today, spend some time…Reading Your Own Future!

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They Are New Every Morning…Part I

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases. His mercies never come to an end, they are new every morning. Great is Thy faithfulness! The Lord is my portion, says my soul. Therefore I will hope in Him.”  Taken from the book of Lamentations, this passage has been sung for years and years. So during the next couple of weeks I hope you’ll enjoy a look at this passage from a different lens, and a special thanks to the Gospel Advocate for motivating my thoughts as we consider what’s ‘new every morning!’gloomy sky

“This morning we woke up to a dark and cloudy sky. The much anticipated warm sunshine was replaced by a cool, gray hue that reminds us of the changing seasons. The rain last night soaked our parched ground for which we are thankful. The storms have passed, but a cool darkness remains. Many would prefer sunshine to gloom, but it’s fine with me that fall has come and with it stormy weather. God’s creation is diverse and is cherished among His people. We take each new day for what it is, sunshine or rain, warm or cold, each new day is a gift from God. As Christians wake each morning, we experience a gift from God and the promise that comes with the new day. Each moment, as the sky brightens, we instinctively know the darkness will lose to a brighter sun. We will have a new day, a fresh start, another chance and a new beginning.

A Christian’s biggest worry is rarely the weather. Christians must be true to God’s Word, but that can be difficult when they feel caught up in an emotional or spiritual storm. Sometimes a season of dreariness can slowly weaken the Christian’s resolve, leaving him to wonder how he will make it through another day. Jeremiah is an excellent example of how a man who was strong in faith, yet who struggled with weakness. A prophet of God, Jeremiah prayed for the people of Judah (14:7), and yet lashed out against the sin of his countrymen (44:23). In the midst of his lamentation, Jeremiah recognized their need and came offering hope to a desperate nation. It was a period of storm and stress as the doom of entire nations, including Judah, was being sealed. In his sorrow Jeremiah laments, “My strength has perished, and so has my hope from the Lord.” (Lamentations 3:18) A man of God who has warned his people of the impending storm is now struggling with the darkness (3:6). Yet in his sorrow and weeping, Jeremiah turns his heart and mind back to God. The sun will shine again and the darkness of the storm will pass. Jeremiah reminds us of the mercy of the Lord, and admonishes God’s people to hold fast to this hope. As he encourages the Israelite nation, Jeremiah continues in the 22nd verse, “The Lord’s loving-kindness indeed never ceases, for His compassions never fail.” With that promise we take courage, fully understanding that regardless of the storms, we have hope. God is faithful to His people, to those who follow and obey His word. Jeremiah continued, “The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, to the person who seeks Him.” (3:25) It may be hard to wait for and to seek God when the storm rages, but the promise of God’s goodness should always give us strength. Children of God must recognize, cherish and hold fast to God’s loving-kindness.
Since the 1970’s, young Christian people across this nation have sung the words of Jeremiah found in Lamentations chapter 3. Many know this passage by heart, but few know it in context. And so we sing…
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning. Great is Thy faithfulness! ‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul. ‘Therefore I will hope in Him.’ ”
dawnBut how can we see God’s compassion when darkness veils our sight? Some believe His compassion has ceased when nothing but storm clouds cover their heads. How could a compassionate God allow destruction and sorrow? Does Jesus even care? There may be over-cast skies and stormy weather today, but remember there is always hope for tomorrow. And with that steadfast hope, there is a promise of sunshine. Jeremiah continues to speak about God’s never failing compassion, “…they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.” With the passing of night, comes the dawning of a new day. The compassion of our God never fails His people. As the new day dawns upon this tired, old earth, so our God is faithful to rain down compassion upon His children.”

We’ll continue this thought in a week or two…but until then, listen to this arrangement by an acapella group known as Blacappella. They combine the text of Lamentations 3 with the sentiments of Paul in Philippians 2. “We place You on the highest place…”

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Can a Christian Be a Thinking Person?…Oct. 19th

It was written in 1929 by Ernest Hemingway in the novel, A Farewell to Arms. A simple sentence that haunts mankind, “All thinking men are atheists.” The secular world would have you believe that faith in God is weakness and scientific ignorance.  Thinking mind

In a world that speaks with disdain toward God and elation toward self, what is a Christian to do? What can we say that will convince the ‘un-churched’ to reconsider their path of ungodliness? When we profess our belief in “…God created…”, the world dismisses this as ancient myth. But we believe in an intellectually superior God who shaped and formed the earth. Remember what Paul wrote to the church in Ephesus, “They (unbelievers) are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of the hearts.”

Waterview welcomes Dr. Phil Thompson of Harding University on Sunday, October 19th. He will be presenting two classes and two lessons designed to answer the question, “Can thinking people believe?”

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

Sunday morning, Oct. 19, 2014

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

“All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name” – 162psalm 148

Built into a medley with “Hallelujah, Praise Jehovah,” we’ll begin our worship together with these songs of praise. “All hail the power of Jesus’ name let angels prostrate fall! Bring forth the royal diadem and crown Him Lord of all…” Is Christ the Lord of your life? You make that decision, though your decision has no bearing on His royalty. He reigns! We will either follow Him or we will not. A foolish, deceived world will not, but rest assured, He is Lord of All!

“Hallelujah, Praise Jehovah” – 3

Taken from the 148th Psalm we’ll sing the scripture in this ‘psalm.’ Have you read it lately? If not, after we sing it you really should read it! His divine power is reinforced in His creation, everything praises Him. The question is…will you?

“We Saw Thee Not” – 342

Before the Lord’s Supper we’ll sing the first three verses remembering Christ’s death. Perhaps the power comes in the conclusion of each of these verses as we sing (twice for emphasis), “But we believe…”

“My Faith Has Found a Resting Place” – 582

Not an overly familiar song, but one which we need to understand and daily echo the chorus, “I need no other argument, I need no other plea, it is enough that Jesus died and rose again for me.” Do you have the faith to be able to not only sing these word, but believe them and live your life accordingly?

“O Listen to the Wondrous Story” – 496

Before our lesson we’ll sing this popular spiritual song written more than 100 years ago. The third verse is a great question to the listener as we sing, “Will you surrender to this Savior? To His scepter humbly bow? You, too, shall come to know His favor, He will save you, save you now.” Then the chorus resounds with a question and answer, “Who saved us from eternal loss! Who but God’s Son upon the cross? What did He do? He died for you! Where is He now? Believe it thou, In heaven interceding!”

“Trust and Obey” – 915

“When we walk with the Lord in the light of His world, what a glory He sheds on our way…” You most likely know this song by heart having sung it for years. But often we are familiar with the first, second and last verses and have never fully learned the third verse. But this morning consider a line from this song which has implications on today’s lesson. “But we never can prove the delights of His love until all on the altar we lay; for the favor He shows, and the joy He bestows, are for those who will trust and obey.” So where are you in regard to laying your all on the altar. Or are you still trying to see if you can prove the delights of His love?

“Love Lifted Me” – 453

A rousing song as we part this morning. We will sing over and over the message of the chorus, “Love lifted me…” Do you find that living for Christ lifts your spirits? The child of God understands this ‘lift’ and finds comfort in his belief in a Savior. Though the world may think us to be ignorant or backward, we know where to look when we’re ‘sinking deep in sin, far from the peaceful shore…’ Let’s not keep this story of salvation to ourselves. There is a dying world out there who desperately needs a Savior.

 

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Life on the Battlefield…Oct. 12th

A soldier’s job is defined by struggle. When conflicts arise, these men and women battlefieldput to practice all their training. A soldier, by definition, fights. Even in peace time, he is preparing himself for the inevitable battle. But what causes some in the heat of the battle to fight and die on the battlefield, while others will literally drop their weapons, strip off their uniform and run? Why do some stand with their fellow soldiers, supporting each other, while others don’t?

Understanding God’s word, the Christian realizes there is a daily struggle (Ephesians 5:10-17) in this life. We are in a battle against the wrong for the right. But the question remains, will we stay loyal or turn and run when the fight becomes fierce? Will we stand for what is right or crumble without a fight? Reader, know this…without a moral compass, without a ‘standard operating procedure,’ you will be left to guess and hope. Millions are trying to manage life, on their own. And yet Christians know the adversary is ‘on the prowl’ (I Peter 5), and without God’s word, we are ill-prepared. Rest assured, the devil, our adversary, is not waiting for us to step into battle, for this life is a battle. To be clear, we’re living life on the battlefield!

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

Sunday morning, Oct. 12, 2014

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

“Doxology” – 66

Opening our worship this morning we’ll sing a basic hymn from years gone by. “Praise God from whom all blessings flow…” Before we even think about fighting the battles in life, we must draw strength from the One who gives us hope for our battles. Let’s praise the Father, Son and Holy Ghost.

“The Glory-Land Way” – 535

Keeping the same key signature (musically), we’ll transition to another old favorite that echos the journey we’ve all chosen to take. A journey home to glory. Encouraging each other will give us added support for our individual battles. When we hear our family singing, “…heaven is nearer, and the way groweth (grows) clearer…” we find strength to keep on fighting for the goal.

“In Loving-Kindness Jesus Came” – 504crown of thorns

Focus on the third verse of this song as we consider our purpose in life on the battlefield, ‘”His brow was pierced with many a thorn, His hands by cruel nails were torn. When from my guilt and grief forlorn, in love He lifted me…” We are in battle, and there will be days we feel like we’re losing. After all, Christ was abused, beaten, mocked, disdained and killed on the cross. But never forget that He conquered death in His resurrection! So what does that mean me? In our daily battles, standing up for what is right and living with Christ as our guide..we have already won!

“Spirit of the Living God” – 422

A short, contemporary hymn that has a very interesting progression for the Christian. If we are to be the soldiers God calls us to be, there is a process we should consider. To be useful in battle we need to be melted down, and molded into what He wants us to be. Then we must be filled with His word and used for His glory. We sing, “Spirit of the Living God, fall fresh on me…melt me, mold me, fill me, use me…” A soldier fights for His commander and chief. We must answer the question, on the battlefields of life, who do we fight for?

“Christ Above Me” – no book

This hymn will likely be new to most, but the message is one we must learn and hold dear in our hearts. As a soldier of God, how do we visualize Christ in our life? Is He a Kevlar vest we put on for battle? Is His word a sword we pick up when we ‘go into a fight?’ Sing this song and follow the words as we recall how Christ is more than just part of our life…He IS our life. “Christ above me, Christ beside me, Christ within me ever guiding. Christ behind me, Christ before. Christ my love, my life, my Lord!”

“Faith is the Victory” – 469

Where are we ‘camping’ in this life? Is it on the battlefield, or do we prefer the ‘hills of light’ where there is peace and comfort. This old hymn, which you’ve sung for years, is a reminder that there is a war being fought for the soul of mankind. An obscure verse, which we’ll sing on Sunday, reminds us of the battle and how we should prepare for it. “On every hand the foe we find drawn up in dread array (they can look pretty intimidating), let tents of ease be left behind and onward to the fray (the battle). Salvation’s helmet on each head, and truth all girt about (Ephesians 5), the earth shall tremble ‘neath our tread, and echo with our shout…Faith is the victory!”

“I Am Resolved” – 948Bible

Our invitation is a confirmation of our resolve in this battle, I’ll never quit! However, though most of us will sing that resolve, many will lay their weapons down when the fighting gets fierce. To stay faithful to Him, we have to remember what we sing in the chorus, “I will hasten (hurry) to Him.”

“To Christ Be True” – 736

What better way to finish off a lesson on life in the battlefield than to sing of our faithfulness to the battle. Soldiers must demonstrate loyalty in times of peace as well as times of battle. Just remember, “…To Christ, the Lord, be true and He will go with you. And help you through all your conflicts, to Christ the Lord be true!” 

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When the Vacation’s Over

Remember the holiday season when family would come to visit? Our homes would be open to aunts and uncles, grandmas and grandpas, cousins and nephews, relatives who traveled days to stay with us during the holidays. I can still hear the ringing laughter and recall the days packed with meals together, games, stories and memories. We stayed up late talking and spent each day building stronger bonds with those we love.waving goodbye

But inevitably, the vacation comes to an end. The car’s packed and the family is on their way back home. My strongest memories of those days are not the awkward early hours when ‘family comes to town,’ or even the activities that filled those days. The clearest memories I have of those family holidays are centered on the departure of our loved ones. Standing at the door step and watching them back out of the driveway. As a matter of fact, there were times I cried as my grandparents drove off into the distance. And if we’re honest with ourselves, the ‘loss’ is more strongly felt by those left behind than those who ‘travel on.’ When we leave to go home we have the road ahead of us. The terrain changes with every mile and our eyes focus and refocus on the panoramic scenes around us. Travelers stay busy anticipating what’s around the next corner. But those left behind experience a house of quiet solitude where once the walls echoed with laughter. Yesterday was filled with rambunctious excitement, but today we return to the quiet routine.
Perhaps, in similar fashion, losing a family member to death can leave that same emptiness that we feel when the vacation is over. We’ve enjoyed the time together, growing closer, but then the day is over and we’re left alone in a quiet house. The proverbial bags have been packed and the family has ‘gone home.’ And as we stand at the threshold waving goodbye, we feel the emptiness of being left behind.
Caroline Sprague Smith wrote a hymn that echoes the heart of those who have stood alone, facing the end of life. Of course, it could very well match the thoughts of those watching their loved ones ‘drive off’ into the sunset. As she penned this prayer for Christ to ‘tarry with me,’ we see the emotion of being left alone and the emptiness we face…when the vacation is over.

1 Tarry with me, O my Savior! For the day is passing by;
See! the shades of evening gather, And the night is drawing nigh.

Chorus: Tarry with me, blessed Savior; Leave me not till morning light;
For I’m lonely here without Thee; Tarry with me thro’ the night.

2 Deeper, deeper grow the shadows, Paler now the glowing west,
Swift the night of death advances; Shall it be the night of rest?

Chorus:

3 Lonely seems the vale of shadow; Sinks my heart with troubled fear;
Give me faith for clearer vision, Speak Thou, Lord, in words of cheer.

Chorus:

4 Let me hear Thy voice behind me, Calming all these wild alarms;
Let me, underneath my weakness, Feel the everlasting arms.

Chorus:

5 Feeble, trembling, fainting, dying, Lord, I cast myself on Thee;
Tarry with me through the darkness; While I sleep, still watch by me.

Chorus:

6 Tarry with me, O my Savior! Lay my head upon Thy breast
Till the morning; then awake me! Morning of eternal rest.

Chorus: Tarry with me, blessed Savior; Leave me not till morning light;
For I’m lonely here without Thee; Tarry with me thro’ the night.

 

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The Antioch Experience…Oct. 5th

A great leader in the church has been viciously ‘attacked’ and killed for preaching the gospel of Christ. With his death comes a violent persecution of the church and a sub-sequential fleeing of God’s people. In this ‘disbursement’, a congregation began meeting (and growing) in a large Syrian town known as Antioch. An interesting statement is made in the 20th verse of Acts chapter 11 regarding this growth, “But there were some…men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who came to Antioch mapAntioch and began speaking to the Greeks also, preaching the Lord Jesus…and a large number who believed turned to the Lord.” Consider for a time who these men where and how far they came? We might call them ‘missionaries,’ but the distance they traveled is remarkable.

From Cyprus to Antioch is less than 100 miles and that mostly crossing the Great Sea (Mediterranean Sea). But to travel from Cyrene to Antioch you’ll need to plan for a trip of more than 800 miles. Even by today’s standard that is quite a distance. So why Antioch? What was so important that ‘some men’ traversed the peril of the sea and long days ‘on the road’ to spread the word of God? Join us Sunday morning as Robert Taylor, one of our associate ministers, shares with us, “the Antioch Experience.”


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

Sunday morning, October 5, 2014

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

“Come, Thou Almighty King” – 19

We sing this song (hymn) as a prayer to God. Notice the ‘prayer’ you’ll be singing Sunday morning; “Come, Thou almighty King, help us Thy name to sing, help us to praise! Father all glorious, over all victorious, come and reign over us, Ancient of Days.” But I’m amazed at the words we sing (have sung for years) in the next verse. “Come, Thou Incarnate Word (Christ), gird on Thy mighty sword, our prayer attend (pay attention to)! Come, and Thy people bless, and give Thy word success: Spirit of holiness, on us descend!” If we sing with understanding we’ll know the power of this prayer.

“Great Are You Lord” – no book

Do you proclaim the holiness of God in your life? We sing freely that our God is Holy, and we recognize Him as being Great, but what does that look like in your daily walk? This morning we’ll sing, “…worthy of praise. Holy and true, Great are You Lord, most Holy Lord!” But each day live so that the world will see us and say, “Holy Lord, most holy Lord, You alone are worthy of my praise…”

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

Daily our minds should reflect on the gospel; the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. And each first day of the week we pause to memorialize Jesus in taking the Lord’s Supper. This spiritual song captures the essence of His sacrifice for us. If you truly consider what happened on the cross, you’ll better understand this song; “How deep the Father’s love for us, how vast beyond all measure…” As we sing, we encourage each other to take a look at the cross and ‘behold the man…, (and) my sin upon His shoulders.’ Can you hear the crowd shouting and the mocking voices? Personalize it as you sing, ‘…ashamed, I hear my mocking voice cry out among the scoffers…’

“Ten Thousand Angels” – 349

Following Christ’s memorial, we sing an old spiritual song that references (in part) scripture. But was it 10,000 angels that our Lord could have called? Actually, a literal look at the text (Matthew 26) and a historical application, it’s closer to say, “He could have called 72,000 angels.” Matthew records Christ’s exact words, “…do you think that I cannot appeal to My Father, and He will at once put at My disposal more than 12 legions of angels?” By all historical accounts, a legion of soldiers numbered 6,000. So perhaps we should sing…“He could have called seventy-two thousand angels…either way, He died alone for you and me.”

“Have Thine Own Way Lord” – 552

This hymn/prayer is a call for God to take hold of our lives. But is it even an option? Isn’t God always in control? Even the first verse reference potter and clayscripture as we sing the words of Isaiah, “Thou art the Potter, I am the clay…” Still, God has given us the status of free agents. We can choose to go or stay. We can either do His will or go it alone. Thus we sing, ‘…hold over my being (keep before me/my very life) absolute sway (complete and sovereign power).’

“True-Hearted, Whole-Hearted” – 629

Before the lesson we sing of our faithfulness to spread the message of salvation. So, will we be true-hearted to Him? Will our lives whole-heartedly be serving Him? If so we will certainly ‘peal out the watch word.’ But what is the ‘watch word?’ By definition, this a phrase used my members of the same group. Christians, perhaps our ‘watchword’ is Matthew 28:19, 20. Or maybe it’s Acts 2:38? Both are a call to be whole-heartedly living and serving Him?

“There is Power in the Blood” – 903

When we better understand the Antioch experience, we’ll share the power of salvation with those we meet. Whether across the street or across the global, the world needs to know about His wonder working power that is found in blood of the Lamb. Let’s be better about telling the world how they can be free from the burden of sin! 

“I Will Sing the Wondrous Story” – 509

“I will sing the wondrous story of the Christ Who died for me. How He left His home in glory for the cross of Calvary…” If you can’t sing the wondrous story, you’ll ever be able to tell it. Nor will you ever travel hundreds of miles to tell others of His saving grace. So have you been to ‘Antioch?’ Not the one in Syria, but the one here at home. Take them the message of Christ!
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The Sign of the Covenant…Sept. 28th

A verbal commitment is binding, and yet an agreement that is documented (written) is stronger still. But what about an agreement between two individuals that has physical implications? A physical sign of what we have agreed upon. A handshake is physical, but is Covenant...1there more to it when it comes to our agreement, our covenant, with God?

In the Old Testament we read of the ‘physical’ covenant between God and man in Genesis chapter 17 when God said to Abraham…“Now as for you, you shall keep My covenant, you and your descendants after you throughout their generations. This is My covenant, which you shall keep, between Me and you and your descendants after you: every male among you shall be circumcised. And you shall be circumcised in the flesh of your foreskin, and it shall be the sign of the covenant between Me and you…” A very physical sign to be sure, but what about us today? If we have a covenant with God, is it more than just verbal and written? What is our “Sign of the Covenant?”

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

Sunday morning, September 28, 2014

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

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

Just looking at the title of this familiar song, you should ask yourself, ‘what does it mean to “own” Him?’ Perhaps in easier terms we might say, do you openly profess your obedience to God? If I’m loyal to God, and if I publicly proclaim Him then how often do I defend His cause? Do you know, His cause? Children of the covenant know, and we must never be ashamed to own our Lord.

“He’s My King” – 166

Immediately following after “I’m Not Ashamed to Own My Lord,” we’ll sing this spiritual song of confirmation. Not only am I willing to proclaim my loyal covenant to Him…I sing with conviction that He is my King! Let’s sing of our love for Him, and be sure…‘none other is above Him.’

“Hallelujah! What a Savior” – 337

Before the Lord’s Supper we’ll sing the first two verses of this song written by Philip Bliss in the late 1800’s. Remember that Jesus was scoffed and shamed as He stood condemned in our spot. But why? To reclaim us, the ‘ruined sinner,’ and to pardon us with His blood. What a Savior!

“Why Did My Savior Come to Earth” – 382

Taking just the first verse we’ll sing before the bread. Then, between the bread and the fruit of the vine, we’ll sing verse two. When was the last time you really focused on these words: “Why did my Savior come to earth, and go to the humble (insignificant, inferior)? Why did He chose to be born in a barn (a lowly birth)? And why did He drink the bitter cup of sorrow, pain and woe (trouble)? Why did He allow mankind to lift Him up on the cross? Do you know the answer to these questions? They can be found in this children’s song; “Jesus loves me, this I know!”

“I Come to the Garden Alone” – 595

As we conclude our time around the Lord’s Supper we’ll reflect on a song we’ve song for years. Though it’s poetic, it could have been the thoughts of Mary Magdalene as she came to the tomb of Jesus on the first day of the week. Maybe…maybe not, but she would have been one to say, “I come to the garden alone while the dew is still on the roses; and the voice I hear, falling on my ear, the Son of God discloses.” Read through John 20 and see for yourself if these could have been Mary’s words.

“O Jesus, I Have Promised” – 554

Also referred to as “The Angel’s Song” we can sing of our covenant relationship with God. Do you promise to serve Him to the end?

“Ancient Words” – no book

‘Ancient words, ever true, changing me and changing you!’ Perhaps the next line of this contemporary song is the challenge for you and I today. Can we honestly sing what comes next? Have you come with an open heart? Are you ready for the word of covenantGod to be imparted to you? If so, when this lesson is concluded what will your reply be? What a blessing that these “Holy words” have been long preserved so we can see…a sign of the covenant.

“O Master Let Me Walk with Thee” – 763

An invitation song to consider our covenant with our King. Will you walk with Him? Will you serve Him? Will you claim Him publicly? Why is it we so often consider our promise with God, our covenant with our Savior, as something we can pick up and put down at will? Perhaps the sign of our covenant with Christ must be more than just words if we are to be pleasing to God.

“Live for Jesus” – 594

How will you live this week? Who will you serve? Notice our second verse as we close the worship time together; “Live for Jesus, wandering sinner, under Satan serve no more; of the promised prize a winner thou may’st be when life is o’er…” If you are living in sin, you’re living for Satan. Convert (turn around) and live for Jesus. The sign of your covenant with God is your life and when it’s over, if you’ve been loyal, you’ll win the prize of heaven.

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Before & After the Wedding Cake…Sept. 21st

Weddings are wonderful occasions adorned with tears of joy, songs of emotion and words Wedding Cakeof commitment. But ask one of my boys what he likes the most about weddings (if he has to go) and he will tell you, the reception. Not for the greeting and visiting, but for the food. The mints are nice and the chocolate fountain is a highlight, but everyone steps forward when it’s time to cut the cake.

Still one might wonder why focus on the wedding cake for a Sunday morning sermon? What comes before and after the ‘cake’ that gives us pause to preach about? Join us Sunday while we learn more about the wedding as we look at the marriage. God gave us a pattern for marriage and the wedding day, but when the world distorts God’s perfect plan, chaos ensues. Perhaps it’s time we step back and take a look at what’s happening before and after the wedding cake.

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

Sunday morning, Sept. 21, 2014

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

“Give Me the Bible” – 450

We look forward to things in this world that are temporary. A young person wants his freedom, an older person wants peace and quiet, and a child (the world) wants its toys. But what does the child of God want? This morning we’ll sing it, but do we really want it, “…the Bible…” Do you want it? Do you believe it will guide you in the narrow way? If we know what’s good for us we’ll do more than sing about it, we’ll read it!

“How Shall the Young Secure Their Hearts?” – 432

What a great song of dedication to encourage each other to hold on to God’s word. But not just holding on, passing the message on to our children. Sometimes I wonder if we’re really concerned about the souls of our youth, or if we just want them to have fun. Until we believe and understand that the Bible will guide our children and well support our age we will never be secure in this life or the life to come.

“How Beautiful” – 365

How beautiful are the hands of those who serve, and the feet that bring the good news of Christ. And how beautiful is the bride of Christ, His church, as she waits for His arrival (return.) But nothing compares to the beauty of Christ. We sing, “…and as He laid down His life, we offer this sacrifice, that we may live just as He died, willing to pay the price…” As we commemorate the Lord’s Supper consider just how beautiful…is the body of Christ.

“A Common Love” – 705

We sing about loving one another and we talk about our Christian love for each other…but do we really have a common love? In 1974, Charles Brown wrote this song and punctuated the objective we should all have. Not just a common love, but a common gift and a common bond. We share a common strength and a common hope in Christ. What a joy we find in the truth of God’s word when we understand and appreciate that common love.

“Happy the Home When God is There” – no book

Though the title of this song might be new to you, perhaps you’ll recognize the tune. Written in 1846, Henry Ware penned this poem and 20 years later, John B. Dykes offered the musical accompaniment (St. Agnes). Many may remember the song, “Jesus, the Very Thought of Thee.” These two songs share the same tune, so if you don’t recognize the words to “Happy the Home When God is There,” perhaps you’ll recognize this tune.

“God Give Us Christian Homes” – 843

A beautiful song before our lesson that addresses all elements of the family; father, mother, children. However, we’ll miss the message if we don’t follow verse one, “God give us Christian home! Homes where the Bible is loved and taught, Homes where the Master’s will is sought, Home crowned with beauty Thy love hath wrought (provided, created); God give us Christian homes…!”

“I Have Decided to Follow Jesus” – 674

So what is your decision? How will your family be led? Has God been the same before and after the wedding cake? This lesson might cause some to stop and consider just how we’re handling the issues of marriage? The one who has decided to follow Jesus knows…do you?

“God of Our Fathers” – 1025

Not a hymn we typically sing in the congregational setting, but an exceptional message we must never forget. Perhaps it’s the ‘Old English’ that gives us hesitation, but if you’ll consider the words, you’ll see the wisdom. “God of our fathers, whose almighty hand leads forth Gods handy workin beauty all the starry band of shining worlds in splendor thru the skies, our grateful songs before Thy throne arise…” Would that we take God’s word as our law and our chosen way. Our nation was founded on Godly principles, but sometimes I wonder if something happened after the wedding cake?