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.
In your prayer life, what do you most ask of God? For good health, for comfort and success, for world peace? Jesus said in Mark chapter 11, verse 24, “…all things for which you pray and ask, believe that you have received them…” So in our prayers we ask as we have been directed, “Ask, and it will be given to you…” (Matthew 7:7) and we offer thanks (I Thessalonians 5:18). But again, when you pray…what do you most ask for?
Baylus McKinney, a musician and song writer in the early 1900’s, penned the words to dozens of Christian hymns. But one particular song is a prayer seeking God’s blessing on the home. Though it encompasses only one request, “God give us Christian homes,” there are four different elements noted as we sing. What does it take to have a Christian home? What elements did McKinney see fit to ask of God as we seek this blessing?
First of all, we seek homes where the Bible is not only loved by the family, but taught to the children. Homes where God’s will is a priority and sought after on a daily basis. Another element of a ‘Christian home’ is one with a father who is truthful and strong. Strengthened to know the difference between right and wrong and leading his family heavenward. A father who teaches his family love, joy, and the importance of praising God in song. A third element of a Christian home comes by way of the mother who conducts herself with dignity, in ‘queenly quest.’ She lives so as to show all those who pass through her door that life is best lived following God’s word. A mother who brings glory and honor to the King of Kings. And finally, as we ask for a Christian home we must remember to pass on the legacy to the children. Children who know that Christ loves them and died for them. A Christian home where the children understand what it means to sacrifice. Not offering a lamb on a stone altar, but laying down our lives for the glory of our God.
For a Christian home, we need 1) God’s word, 2) a Godly father and 3) mother who will teach 4) their children God’s ways. We offer prayers daily; thanking our Father in heaven for His blessings and asking for His guidance. Today, when you bow your head in prayer, what will you ask for? Would that we individually and collectively pray for the fathers, mothers and children, that we strive to raise up Christian homes.
What a helpless feeling as your car sputters to a stop, leaving you to look down and see the gas gauge on EMPTY. With nothing left, your gas tank is dried up. It’s one thing to accidentally ‘run out of gas,’ but it is something entirely different to purposely drain your tank. So the question is, who would do such a thing? Why would you empty your tank? Could this be something we aspire for…to die on empty?
Robert Taylor, associate minister with Waterview church of Christ, will bring our Sunday morning lesson. Let’s join him as we look at Christ’s life (and death) to see if we can understand why Jesus, would ’empty Himself.’ Philippians 2:5-8
“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15
Sunday morning, May 4, 2014
The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“I Stand in Awe” 96
“You are beautiful beyond description. Too marvelous for words. Too wonderful for comprehension, like nothing ever seen or heard. Who can grasp Your infinite wisdom, who can fathom the depth of Your love? You are beautiful beyond description, majesty enthroned above…And I stand in awe of You!” A beautiful, contemporary song (hymn) of praise. But I encourage you to do more than physically stand in awe of Him. In your life live so that others know He is awesome in power and might. Live so that nothing else compares to His majesty. Sing this song to God, but honor Him with your life.
“I Am Thine, O Lord” – 666
This hymn (we sing to the Lord) is one that dates back to 1875 as Fanny J. Crosby penned these timeless words. Notice the last phrase in the second verse; “…Let my soul look up with a steadfast hope, and my will be lost in Thine.” How blessed would we be if our will was one with God’s will? The Christian knows it should be, but is it? Let Him ‘draw you nearer’ to His precious bleeding side…
“Beneath the Cross of Jesus” – 314
As we prepare our minds for this moment of remembering the Lord’s death, burial and resurrection let’s poetically (and gladly) take our stand beneath His cross. Notice the third verse, ‘Upon that cross of Jesus mine eye at times can see the very dying form of One who suffered there for me…’ As you look upon the cross, through tears of the heart, realize His death was for you. Now, will you confess His glorious love, and your own worthlessness? You can see more clearly from beneath the cross of Jesus.
“I Gave My Life for Thee” – 354
As we give back during the time of collection let’s sing about how He gave to us first. Each verse focuses on what Christ did for us. He gave His life; He left heaven’s glory; He suffered agony and He brings us the free gift of eternal life. What have you given for the cause of Christ? What have you abandoned to follow Him? Do you suffer for His name? Will you bring any gift to Christ? Just remember…He gave His life for thee!
“Poured Out Like Wine” – 655
Paul wrote to the church in Philippi and said, “…even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all.” Philippians 2:17 This gives us the basis for this spiritual song. Paul was willing to be poured out (emptied). Will we do the same?
“Our God, He Is Alive” – 23
Before our lesson this morning we’ll sing an old favorite. But don’t be drawn into singing it by rote. This spiritual song calls us to praise our God with every voice. The men take the lead in the refrain while the ladies echo. Notice what the ladies sing “…From dust, our God created man…” God created Adam from dust, but the woman from Adam’s side. She sings about the man’s creation. Nice poetic touch. He is indeed, “the Great I Am!”
“All to Jesus I Surrender” – 662
Not under compulsion, but willingly do we sing this invitation song? “I surrender all!” Really? Can you sing that with a clear conscience? Do you (will you) give everything over to God? Whether this is poetic or if you truly aspire it personally, one day we will all bow at His feet and surrender to Him. Might as well strive for that now. “All to Jesus I surrender, all to Him I freely give. I will ever love and trust Him, in His presence daily live…”
“Days of Elijah” – no book
Will you sing, have you sung this contemporary, spiritual song? Notice the Biblical references that are woven throughout; “These are the days of Elijah…” as he stood up for God against the prophets of Baal. The days of Moses striving to restore God’s people to righteousness. The days of Ezekiel as God raised an army from dry bones and David as we rebuild our bodies (temples) to praise God. All the while we see trials, famine, darkness and the ‘sword.’ But take courage, salvation comes through Jesus. We sing Revelation 1:7 as we join in the chorus, “Behold, He is coming with the clouds…”
L.T.C. (Leadership Training for Christ) has been a focus for members of the Lord’s church for 25 years. A branch off the Lads to Leaders which began in 1968, L.T.C. has been preparing our young men to speak, lead singing and read scripture. Our young ladies learn how to lead women’s devotionals, sign for the hearing impaired and teach younger children. (Though the boys can do the signing and teaching challenge as well!) And this doesn’t even include chorus, drama, puppets, service challenge and a myriad of other areas for training.
Perhaps the primary focus for those who find L.T.C. (or Lads) a focal point in their year would be the preparation that goes into Bible Bowl. In this ‘event’ students from 3rd -12th grades study a pre-selected section of scripture, then take an oral test to determine their retention of the material covered. Some who dislike tests avoid this event, but to others it is a challenge to see if they can learn, remember and recall the scriptures.
Below are a few of the test questions from L.T.C. 2014, “Called Out”, as we studied the life of Moses (see Exodus, Numbers and Deuteronomy).
1. Where was the blood of the Passover lamb to be placed? (Ex. 12:22) a. the door frame b. the roof of the house c. the ground d. on the table
2. As long as Moses’ hands were held up, the Israelite army was _________ the battle. (Ex. 17:11) a. escaping b. losing c. winning d. surviving
3. How many days did the men, sent by Moses, explore Canaan? (Num. 13:25) a. 4 days b. 12 days c. 40 days d. 60 days
4. When Moses came down from Mount Sinai, he was not aware that his face was what? (Ex. 34:29) a. darkened b. radiant c. pale d. saddened
5. Who was asked to put a curse on Israel? (Num. 22:10-11) a. Balak b. Baal c. Balaam d. Bashan
6. How many men went to battle against the Midianites? (Num. 31:4) a. all of them b. 10,000 men of war c. only the Levites d. 1,000 from each tribe
7. What did God have Moses write down and teach to the Israelites? (Deut. 31:19) a. their history b. a song c. the scroll of law d. words from the stone tablet
8. What plague did Pharaoh’s magicians call ‘the finger of God?’ (Ex. 8:16-19) a. the water to blood b. the gnats c. the frogs d. the locust
9. Manna tasted like something made from _______ ______? (Num. 11:8) a. unleavened yeast b. wheat flour c. raisins & figs d. olive oil
10. In Moses’s final blessing, which tribe was referred to as a lion’s cub? (Deut. 33:22) a. Reuben b. Levi c. Dan d. Benjamin
This is just a sampling of the 100 questions the young men and women were given to answer this year at our local L.T.C. convention in Dallas, Texas. Several performed remarkably well and received high marks. And to be honest, others struggled. But knowing the answers to the questions is only half the battle. When we learn from God’s word that we have been ‘called out,’ we’ll know better how to serve our God and King. Leadership Training for Christ is a great experience, but applying the lessons learned from a study of God’s Word is worth it’s weight in gold, silver and bronze.
What does it mean to be ‘in control?’ Do you have to have authority and power to maintain control over someone or something? Many will assume you have to be stronger, more talented, or meaner, or smarter to be in control. And though those traits might prove beneficial, is that all it takes?
Perhaps it’s best summed up to say, ‘if someone is in the place of authority, they should be in control.’ A parent should be ‘in control’ of their child; a teacher should be ‘in control’ of her student and a general should be ‘in control’ of his troops. We can assign positions of ‘control’ based on what we assume and what we see. But when it comes to you, personally…who’s in control?
“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15
Sunday morning, April 27, 2014
The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“We Praise Thee, O God!” – 2
In the deep recesses of my mind I remember this old hymn being sung when I was just a child. The chorus is a resounding proclamation, “Hallelujah! Thine the glory…” A great way to start off our Sunday morning worship together. We’ll sing…“revive us again.” Are you personally ready for revival?
“Take My Life and Let It Be” – 664
This song before the contribution is a hymn (a prayer) asking God to take my life, take my moments, take my hands and take my feet. We’ll ask our Creator to take our voice and our lips, but we’ll also ask Him (as we prepare to give) to take our silver and our gold. Notice our next statement…‘not a mite would I (we) withhold.’ A mite, by definition, is a small amount. It could be money or time. We’re singing, ‘not a small amount would I withhold.’ So…who is in control of your silver and gold? Really, who is in control of you?
“His Grace Reaches Me” – 113
This is an interesting spiritual song in that the alto, tenor and bass all sing an ‘AH’ during the verses before singing with the soprano in the chorus. But as always, don’t miss the forest for the trees…notice your words as you sing. The Savior’s grace is deeper than the ocean and higher than the mountains. Could you honestly say it ‘thrills’ your soul just knowing that His sacrifice, His blood, is your salvation? His grace does indeed reach us all, if we will only follow Him and be ‘under His control.’
“Master, the Tempest is Raging” – 189
Such a splendid account of Jesus calming the storm on the Sea of Galilee. But we miss the message of this psalm if we don’t hear the chorus. “The winds and the waves shall obey Thy will, ‘Peace be still!’ Whether the wrath of the storm tossed sea, or demons, or men, or whatever it be, No water can swallow the ship where lies the Master of ocean and earth and skies…” Understand the message! If the Master of the ocean, earth and skies is living in you, then you have nothing to fear. The ‘wrath’ of the storms of life, the haunting demons and the devises of men are nothing to fear. Why? Because nothing can ‘swallow’ your ship…if the Master is in you.
“Hosanna!” – 167
A song of praise that mirrors the words of the people as they welcomed Christ’s entrance into Jerusalem.
Mark 11:9, “And those who went before, and those who went after, were crying out, “Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord…Hosanna in the highest!” Together we sing, “Lord we lift up Your name with hearts full of praise!”
“Alas! And Did My Savior Bleed” – 324
We’ll sing this song before and after the Lord’s Supper. Years ago we sang the first verse with the original words from Isaac Watts, “…would He devote that sacred head for such a worm as I?” Biblical when you consider King David’s words in Psalm 22:6, “But I am a worm, and not a man, a reproach of men, and despised by the people.”
“Standing on the Promises” – 452
Where are you standing in this life? Are you confident of God’s promises or do you fear the howling storms of doubt? Before our invitation song we’ll sing to admonish each other with assurance of where we stand. On the promises of Christ my King and Christ my Lord!
“Lord, Take Control” – 790
Perhaps a fitting invitation song as we consider “Who’s in Control!” You have a decision to make when it comes to places you’ll go and things you’ll see. You will answer for the choices you make. Are you prepared for that kind of control? “My heart, my mind, my body, my soul I give to Thee (God), take control.”
“Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus” – 679
If God is given the controls of my life, does that mean I’m just a puppet? Of course not! We still have control over what we do and where we go. What we say and even what we think. That’s my responsibility and my opportunity for self-control. But if God doesn’t guide my decisions and my path, my tongue and my mind, then I’ve lost control. Notice verse three from this old song, “Yes, ’tis sweet to trust in Jesus, just from sin and self to cease, just from Jesus simply taking life and rest and joy and peace…” Maybe self-control is…Christ control.
When the son of Zarephath and the daughter of Jarius died, they were brought back to life by the power of God. Lazurus, Dorcas and Eutychus each died, but were resurrected at the hand of Jesus, Peter and Paul. Take a quick review of the scriptures and you’ll find these five individuals were not the only ones who died…only to live again. The son of a Shunammite woman, the son of a widow from Nain, an unnamed man whose dead body ‘touched’ Elisha’s bones, and ‘many saints’ (Matt. 27) all experienced death, but found resurrection in this life.
It’s important to note that each of these men and women who died and then were raised to life, eventually faced death again. However, there is one who died, was raised to life and lives still. Never again would our Savior face death. His victory over death opens the way for each of us. Jesus Christ is the 10th Resurrection.
“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15
Sunday morning, April 20, 2014
The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“Holy, Holy, Holy!” – 47
A vision around the throne of God reveals the four living creatures saying, “Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God, the Almighty…” Revelation 4:8. In a similar vision Isaiah saw the Seraphim calling out, “Holy, Holy, Holy, is the Lord of host…!” Isaiah 6:3. In like manner, this morning, we will join our voices and cry out, “Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty! Early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee…”
“In Christ Alone” – no book
“No power of hell, no scheme of man can ever pluck me from His hand…” This contemporary song has become a beloved favorite among our spiritual songs. We sing of our hope in Christ. We remember His birth and His death. But more importantly, we sing of His ‘bursting forth…from the grave.’ And as we face the fear of death and feel the guilt in life, as God’s children we know that ‘here in the power of Christ I’ll stand.’
“Low in the Grave He Lay” – 344
Few songs can boast a more melancholy message as we sing, ‘Low in the grave He lay Jesus my Savior…Vainly they seal the dead Jesus, my Lord!’ But the chorus is anything but melancholy. With a shout of joy we sing of Christ’s resurrection, “Up from the grave He arose with a mighty triumph over His foes; He arose a Victor from the dark domain and He lives forever with His saints to reign…He arose! He arose! Hallelujah! Christ arose!”
“Alleluia! Alleluia! Hearts to Heaven” – 146
For those who don’t recognize this title you’ll find the words are set to the tune of Beethoven’s Ode to Joy (better know as the tune to “Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee”). Notice the second verse; “Christ is risen, Christ, the first fruits of the holy harvest field…” Paul, in talking about the dead in Christ make this statement, “But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept.” I Corinthians 15:20. God’s people can sing…Alleluia! Alleluia!
“Onward Christians Soldiers” – 646
Our scripture reading before this song is Matthew 10:5-8. We’ll stop our reading mid-verse, then pick up the song at the chorus. It will go something like this; “Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the leper, cast out demons…”“Onward Christian soldiers! Marching as to war, with the cross of Jesus going on before. At the sign of triumph, Satan’s host doth flee; On, then, Christian soldiers, on to victory; Hell’s foundations quiver at the shout of praise; Brothers, lift your voices, loud your anthems raise!”
“There’s a Fountain Free” – 909
Christ offers us salvation through His blood. We can come before the throne of God because of the fountain that flows freely. The words are clear in the first verse, “…let us haste (hurry), O haste (hurry up) to it’s brink (to the edge of the fountain).” The beauty is that Jesus never MAKES people obey. We are all free to come to Him, or to walk away. So we sing, ‘Will you come?’ It’s a simple question, but your answer will bring about enormous ramifications.
“When the Roll is Called Up Yonder” – 852
What will happen when this life is over? When we die…what’s next? For God’s people there will be a resurrection to eternal life. To those who ‘will not come,’ the results, according to Christ, will be ‘…weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ Matthew 8:10-12. But for God’s people, ‘on that bright and cloudless morning when the dead in Christ shall rise, and the glory of His resurrection share,’ we’ll be called home. Following, if you will, the example of the 10th Resurrection.
What a great feeling we have when we finally fulfill our civic duty and file our annual income taxes. Is this a great time of year or what? Maybe not so much, but don’t forget Romans 13:7; “Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor.” Even God commanded His people to, “Levy a tax for the Lord from the men of war who went out to battle…” Numbers 31:28 (read that in it’s entirety, you’ll find it interesting.)
So surely each of us have taken care of this little chore and have not put it off until the last minute (which, by the way, is tomorrow, April 15th). But to be honest, this is a tough reality to face. Even as we understand the expectation from God’s word, and even if we anticipate a return, we still have to go through the process of filing our taxes.In the last several years different sources (software) have helped us step through each question. Still we have to pull together the information, log in the data and keep accurate records.Let’s face it; tax season can bring about stress. It would be so much easier to turn that burden over to someone else who has the expertise to answer each question. Someone to worry about the details, the stress of “getting it right.” Just to have someone take the ‘stress’ and sort it all out. What a relief to have that burden, that time intensive focus, taken off our shoulders. To give the trouble of filing taxes to an expert who is qualified and capable of taking care of the future.
The parallel for Christians is obvious. What would you do to have someone carry the burden of life and sort out all your ‘messy details.’ We all have lives that are fraught (filled) with questions like, “Am I doing it right?” “Did I leave something out?” “I know there are mistakes, but how do I figure this out?” For the child of God we have someone who is capable and qualified to handle our needs. He answers our questions and (if you will) files our taxes. Paying our debts and giving us an unparalleled return. Jesus is our ‘accountant’ who can take the details of life and sort them out. Though we don’t know in life when ‘taxes are due,’ our April 15th will be when Christ returns…judgment day. It can’t be found on any calendar but we know it is near. James 5:8 states, “You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near.”We focus our life on being ready to “file,” but it’s refreshing to know that we have someone who can take care of all the paper work. We don’t live under stress or frustration. We follow God’s word and let Christ rule in our hearts. God has given us His only Son to take the burden, and to pay the price. But to understand this, we must live as children of God. Rest assured, He is keeping accurate records of our life and knows what is due. But He also has given us hope so that when “Tax Day” comes, we will be ready to file.
The starting pistol is aimed toward the sky and with a BANG the race is on! While some will run with earnest, there are others who will quit before they get out of the blocks. But if the truth be known, there are some who have been running their race for quite a while. It’s been difficult with hurdles at every turn, but they run on. And then there are some who began their race years ago and can clearly see the finish line up ahead. The Hebrew writer admonishes the reader to “…run with endurance the race that is set before us…” In this race for Christ, where are you?
Sunday morning at Waterview church of Christ we’ll have an opportunity to hear a message from David Friesen, one of our missionaries in Camrose, Alberta, Canada. Consider your race and reach deep for endurance as you strive for the finish line.
“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15
Sunday morning, April 13, 2014
You’ll notice the following songs come from the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“Praise the Lord” – 74
Taken from the 148th Psalm, this psalm is a hymn! From the heavens and it’s angels to the earth and all creation, we come together and sing “Praise the Lord!…” Let’s begin our worship time focused on God and His majesty.
“I Will Sing the Wondrous Story” – 509
A song with strength and energy as we open each verse, but softer and more melancholy as we draw the chorus to a close. But think about it…what is the wondrous story? Why do we sing about it, and how important is it? Maybe you should ask yourself, what it is? Simply stated, the wondrous story is THE HISTORY of the Christ who died for me. It’s the history of how He left heaven’s glory for the cross of Calvary. The wondrous story is the historical fact that I was lost in sin, but Jesus saves me. It’s about how he drew me back into His way. And I will sing this wondrous story until my life is over. Knowing that will you “sing the wondrous story?”
“How Beautiful” – 365
The first verse of this song mentions hands that served and the feet that walked. Reading (singing) you realize we’re remembering Christ. In the next verse we sing about His bride, the church, and how we are to give from a humble heart. But the last verse focuses on our reason for coming together, “How beautiful the feet that bring the sound of good news and the love of the King. How beautiful the hands that serve the wine and the bread and the sons of the earth…” We remember how He ‘laid down His life’ as we partake of the Lord’s Supper. Then notice the reference to Isaiah 52:7, “How lovely on the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news…” We’ll also hear the word of God proclaimed. Listening and keeping our mind on the race.
“Savior, Thy Dying Love” – 667
“Savior, Thy dying love Thou gavest me…” Consider that alone, we have a gift from Christ so we must ask ourselves, is there some ‘offering’ we should/could give to Him? Is there a song or a prayer we could raise to His name? Perhaps there is some wanderer who is lost and looking for a Savior? Do you have something you will give to the Savior?
“Restore My Soul” – no book
A call from God’s people asking for His restoration, revival and renewal. If you’re feeling weak and need strength from God’s word, seek His restoring power. If your zeal has grown cold, seek to be revived by the fire of His desire. And if you long for faith that is bold, have the courage to seek His renewal. “Renew my love, rebuild my faith, oh restore my soul.”
“Each Step of the Way” – 572
Perhaps this song doesn’t come to mind as an invitation song we would sing, but considering our race and the second leg of that race we must take each step with the Savior. With perseverance and endurance ‘we shall enter the city up there…’ Do you struggle in this race (walk) with Christ? Does it seem like a long road ahead? Don’t dread tomorrow, face it with a trust that He will guide you ‘each step of the way.’
“A Beautiful Life” – 570
“Each day I’ll do a golden deed by helping those who are in need…” Though this song is familiar and easy to sing, don’t forget what you’re saying. Live a life that brings glory to God. A life that will endure through time. A life that includes taking a stand for God. That’s how we should be running the second leg of our race…living a beautiful life.
There’s a simple little pamphlet that provides ‘expert commentary on major themes, plots, characters, and (the) historical background’ of many literary works. This study guide, CliffsNotes, has provided students with the opportunity to learn about a specific book. A useful means by which some find an amazing summary of some great works of literature.
In similar form, the book of Revelation sketches the entire sweep of humanity. The church Christ died for and her epic struggle to remain faithful to Him. The spiritual war between God and Satan, and a figurative look at that final battle. But these ‘notes’ are more than just a summary. And Sunday morning’s lesson will be more than just CliffsNotes; in a few short minutes we’ll go from…the beginning to the end!
“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15
Sunday morning, April 6, 2014
The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“Great Are You Lord” – no book
Opening our hearts and voices we’ll sing the praise of God in this short, contemporary hymn. ‘Holy Lord, Most Holy Lord! You alone are worthy of my praise…’ Join us in singing a song of praise unto the Lord Most High!
“How Great Thou Art” – 76
Transitioning from this recently written song of praise (Great Are You Lord), we’ll continue the thought of praise with a hynm that was penned 65 years previously. But don’t think this song has it’s origin in the mid-1900’s. It’s inspiration comes from a poem written by Carl Boberg in the late 1880’s. Seeing the majesty and power of a thunderstorm reminded him of the power and majesty of our God. He was moved to pen the thoughts that we sing today. “…I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, Thy power throughout the universe displayed. Then sings my soul…How great Thou art!”
“When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” – 315
Taking all five verses of this song we’ll sing before, during and after the Lord’s Supper. Before the partaking of the bread we’ll sing a verse not found in many of our hymnals, “His dying crimson like a robe, spreads o’er His body on the tree. Then I am dead to all the globe and all the globe is dead to me.” Notice the reference to his blood-soaked body and the message of Paul to the church in Colossae; “Since you died with Christ to the elemental spiritual forces of this world, why, as though you still belonged to the world, do you submit to its rules?” (NIV) Colossians 2:20. During this time of meditation, let me encourage you to focus on the Savior and ‘survey’ the cross.
“I Come to the Garden Alone” – 595
Written from the perspective of Mary Magdalen as she came to the tomb of Christ we sing; “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…” Perhaps after reading John 20:15, we can better understand the ‘voice I hear.’“Jesus said to her, ‘Woman, why are you weeping?’” Understanding the context of the songs we sing will strengthen our songs of praise and edification.
“Doxology” – 66
Have you ever considered what this word means? Doxology comes from two Greek words, δόξα, (doxa) meaning “glory” and –λογία, (-logia) meaning “saying.” So translated, when we sing “Praise God from Whom all blessings flow!” We are actually…”Saying Glory!” A simple hymn with an obscure title giving us a noble message.
“Step by Step” – 15
“O God, You are my God and I will ever praise You!” Ask yourself, do you seek Him in the morning, and do you honestly strive to walk in His way? We sing the song and many will see our walk, but only you know whether or not you are seeking Him at the dawning of every day. It’s a walk that takes one step at a time…step by step He WILL lead me.
“Just As I Am” – 924
A beautiful invitation song we have sung since the mid-1800’s. Singing this song of encouragement (though it is actually a song we sing to HIM) we proclaim that we will indeed come to God, to the Lamb of God who shed His blood!
“When We All Get to Heaven” – 853
When we all get to heaven, what a day of rejoicing that will be! When we all see Jesus, we’ll sing and shout the victory.” WOW…consider that message we’ll sing as our closing song on Sunday morning. Are we ready to see Jesus? Are you ready to ‘shout the victory?’ Only if we come to him and walk with Him (step by step) will we ‘get to heaven.’ We can learn about our Savior and come to know and love Him as we study from ‘the beginning to the end.’
Below is a conversation, an electronic dialogue between a father and his daughter who was away at college. The girl was attending a Christian college as was herbrother. The names have been changed to protect the innocent.
Daughter: “Morning dad, I just heard that Alex (the father’s son/the girl’s brother) is going to get a tattoo of a cross on his back…I don’t know if I should say anything to him or not… Father: “WHAT!!! YES, you should!” Daughter: “What should I say?” Father: “Tell him, ‘DON’T DO IT!!!!!’ Tell him he should call me, please! Daughter: “Hahahahahahaha APRIL FOOLS!” :D
A little levity and just some fun and games, but the truth is the heart might need to be shocked after that kind of news. For years stories have been told and tricks have been pulled on an unaware victim, only to hear the trickster say those two, annual words…’April Fools.’
We have all been subject to an April fool’s joke, especially if you have children or siblings. Of course if the truth be told, we all have undoubtedly played our share of jokes on someone we love. No harm in having a little fun, but when is too much, too much? Are we guilty of laughing at someone’s expense? Do we tease and cause harm for the sake of a laugh. If we aren’t careful with the way we treat one another, we may unwittingly hurt those we’d never want to hurt. What might be a harmless ruse can cause a loss of trust.
Don’t get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with teasing every now and again, and an annual April Fool’s joke might be just the thing to bring a smile to someone’s day. But we must be careful how much bantering we do to our friends and family. Perhaps the thing to keep in mind comes from the pen of Paul as he wrote to the church in Ephesus. Chapter 5; “…be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you…there must be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks.”
We can and do have fun with each other. Good-natured fun (as my grandmother used to call it) can be refreshing, but be careful it doesn’t get out of hand. In other words, don’t be foolish in the manner in which you treat others. And as a side note; kids, if you want to play an April Fools joke on your dad, don’t do it via text…once they pick themselves off the floor, they’ll start noticing more gray hairs.
The year was 2008, and four men were running for their life. Their adversaries were all around, but they were prepared for this moment. They knew the routine and had visualized it (and done it) over and over and over. Then disaster struck. Two of the four men failed to complete their assigned duties. They failed to pass the baton. In a split second the aluminum cylinder skipped off the track and the hopes of a gold medal vanished. During the 2008 Summer Olympics, Tyson Gay and Darvis Patton failed to make the hand off in the 4×100 relay, but if the truth be told, an entire country felt the sting of disappointment when we failed to pass the baton.
But there are other areas in which failing to ‘pass the baton’ can crush hope. A teacher who fails to pass on valuable knowledge, drops the baton. A person of authority who knows truth and yet refuses to stand for what’s right, drops the baton. A father who fails to teach his child the truths of God’s word, drops the baton. As Christians, we have a unique responsibility when it comes to passing on the knowledge of salvation in Christ Jesus. The question is, how are we passing the baton?
“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15
Sunday morning, March 30, 2014
The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“Surround Us, Lord” – no book
“As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds His people…” Taken from the 125th chapter of Psalms, this ‘psalm’ is a direct quote from the word of God. Would that we call upon our God to surround us with His love, mercy and protection…just as the mountains surrounded the city of Jerusalem.
“We’re Marching to Zion” – 869
A call for Christians to come, march (live a life) for Christ! Not in protest or defiance to the world, but to ‘let our joys be known.’ Please consider carefully the second verse and see where you are in this march. “Let those refuse to sing who never knew our God, but children of the heavenly King may speak their joys abroad (all around)…” How are you with your singing? Do you sing and speak of the joy you have in Christ? Remember, when you sing about the beautiful city of God, you’re helping pass the baton!
“Ten Thousand Angels” – 349
When we read the scripture, this song should have a different name. Matthew 26:53 states, He could have called 12 legions of angels. So perhaps a better title would be “Seventy-two Thousand Angels.” Never forget, Christ was (is) in control and we are all indebted to His sacrifice. They did bind the hands of Jesus and they did lead Him through the streets…but He allowed it. Take some time to remember that they did spit upon our Savior and He was pure and free from sin…think about Him as we remember the Lord’s Supper.
“Humble Yourself” – 745
Taken from James chapter 4, verse 10, “Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you.” Understand what it means to humble yourself. By definition, “showing submissive respect.” As we come together to worship God we are in His presence. Are you submissive and respectful of Him…or is your mind somewhere else?
“Lord, Speak to Me” – 771
As we consider this morning’s lesson, notice verse three of this hymn; “O teach me Lord, that I may teach the precious things Thou dost impart…” Understand that what we’re singing this morning is a prayer. We’re asking for God’s help as we run the race, teach others about Him, and pass the baton.
“Pass It On” – no book
An old youth song from Camp Blue Haven that reminds me of my youth. “It only takes a spark to get a fire going…I wish for you my friend this happiness that I’ve found…I’ll shout it from the mountain tops, I want the world to know, the Lord of love has come to me, I want to pass it on.” Do we really want to pass it on, or are we waiting for someone to come and take it?
“Wonderful Words of Life” – 543
Before our lesson we’ll sing a ‘spiritual song’ that resounds with the idea of passing the baton. “Sweetly echo the gospel call…offer pardon and peace to all…Jesus, only Savior, sanctified forever!” We have wonderful words that give life, beautiful words of life, are we passing this message on?
“To Christ Be True” – 736
As the Olympic runner wins the race and crosses the finish line he runs another lap with the banner of his country flowing above him in proud display. If we are to be loyal and true we’ll pass on the message of Jesus Christ. We’ll be brave in His service of taking the message of salvation to a lost and dying world. We’ll ‘pass the baton’ being careful not to drop it. Then, as we sing, “…His banner be unfurled, and borne aloft till is secured the conquest of the world.”
“Heavenly Sunlight” – 611
Completing this service we’ll remind each other of our walk on this journey, that we’re pressing our way to mansion’s above. And though this journey may lead us over the mountains or through the deep valley, our Savior will never forsake us. We rejoice with that assurance…“Hallelujah!”, but we must always be ready to pass the baton!
In your prayer life, what do you most ask of God? For good health, for comfort and success, for world peace? Jesus said in Mark chapter 11, verse 24, “…all things for which you pray and ask, believe that you have received them…” So in our prayers we ask as we have been directed, “Ask, and it will be given to you…” (Matthew 7:7) and we offer thanks (I Thessalonians 5:18). But again, when you pray…what do you most ask for?
God’s will is a priority and sought after on a daily basis. Another element of a ‘Christian home’ is one with a father who is truthful and strong. Strengthened to know the difference between right and wrong and leading his family heavenward. A father who teaches his family love, joy, and the importance of praising God in song. A third element of a Christian home comes by way of the mother who conducts herself with dignity, in ‘queenly quest.’ She lives so as to show all those who pass through her door that life is best lived following God’s word. A mother who brings glory and honor to the King of Kings. And finally, as we ask for a Christian home we must remember to pass on the legacy to the children. Children who know that Christ loves them and died for them. A Christian home where the children understand what it means to sacrifice. Not offering a lamb on a stone altar, but laying down our lives for the glory of our God.
