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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Counter Cultural Christianity…Nov. 3rd

Culture can be defined as; ‘the predominating attitudes and behavior that characterize the functioning of a group or organization.’ We consider the actions of a people and determine their culture. What do the people believe?  What is the most important part of the people’s life?  Perhaps we need to look no further than what that ‘culture’ values.

Counter CulturalConcerning His disciples Christ prayed in John 17, ‘…they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.’  We do live in this world (this culture), but we are called to be separated from it.  In this same text Jesus also prayed, ‘I do not ask You to take them out of the world, but to keep them from the evil one.’  If our culture should embrace (have an attitude or behavior) that opposes God’s will, where will we stand?  With culture, or counter to it?  Just remember, oil and water won’t mix…and neither should Christians and the world.  Does that mean we ought not to ‘hang around’ non-Christians?  Not exactly, but we had best consider how we are seen by the world.  Will we fall in-line with the current culture, or will our Christianity be counter cultural? 

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

Sunday morning, November 3, 2013

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

“Awesome God” -38

We toss around the word ‘awesome’ when we want to describe something we really like.  That movie was awesome.  The meal was awesome.  What an awesome time we had together.  But let me encourage you to re-think the way we use this adjective.  It means to be inspired and moved beyond the norm.  Is that what God is for you?  Are you in ‘awe’ of Him?  Personally, I guess it’s just hard for me to place my Creator in the same category as Hollywood’s latest production.  God deserves much more than we give Him credit for…
Our God IS an awesome God!

“Faith is the Victory” – 469

A strong, spiritual songs that recalls the armor of God (Ephesians 6) and the battle we Christians should be preparing for.  We sing to admonish the congregation as we anticipate the spiritual battle against forces of darkness.  The message is poetically clear in the first verse; as soldiers we are camped next to the hills of light (heaven), but we must be ready to go to war ‘against the foes in vales below.’  Our fight is against the ‘night’ lest it should overcome the glowing skies (which seems to be the current situation in our culture).   Just remember, with our faith in God, we have the victory!

“Wounded for Me” – 328

Written in the 1930’s, this spiritual song has the sound of a contemporary piece with the basic message of Christ’s sacrifice for us, “Wounded for me, wounded for me.  There on the cross He was wounded for me…”  Our song continues as we sing how he was not only wounded, but He died for me.  But praise be to God, “He has risen for me; now evermore from death’s sting I am free, all because Jesus has risen for me.”mount of olives and jerusalem

“‘Tis Midnight, and On Olive’s Brow” – 334

Open your Bibles and you’ll be able to follow the thought process of William B. Tappan as he penned these words in 1822.  The poetry takes you to Luke 22:39-44, “He came out and proceeded…to the Mount of Olives…and He withdrew from them about a stone’s thrown…an angel from heaven appeared to Him, strengthening Him…His sweat became like drops of blood…”  And singing, “Tis midnight and on Olive’s brow…the Savior prays alone…’ (1) ‘…unheard by mortals are the strains that sweetly soothe the Savior’s woes…’ (4) ‘…the Man of Sorrows weeps in blood…’ (3)
See also Hebrews 5:7, “…He offered up both prayers and supplications with loud crying and tears to the One able to save Him from death…”

“Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus” – 276

The title of this song comes from the chorus which was made famous by Helen Lemmel in 1922 (some may have thought this to be another contemporary, 80’s or 90’s, song).  The power of the words encourage us keep our eyes on Jesus.  As we conclude the Memorial of our Lord’s death, we continually strive to stay focused on Him.  Would that our hearts and minds be so close to our God that, ‘…the things of earth will grow strangely dim…’

“Onward, Christian Soldiers” – 646

A great ‘battle song’, but one with a verse many may have missed.  Notice these ‘new’ words; “Like a mighty army moves the church of God; Brothers, we are treading where the saints have trod.  We are not divided, all one body we; one in hope and doctrine, one in charity…”.  Would that we understand and remember Ephesians 4; “There is one body and one Spirit…one hope…one Lord…one faith…one baptism…one God and Father.”

“I Am Resolved” – 948

January 1st is a good time to find people making ‘resolutions.’  A time when you fix your mind toward accomplishing our goals.  A time when we promise ourself personal achievement.  A new year, a new start, a new goal.  This morning’s invitation is more than just a ‘first of the year’ promise.  We sing to confirm a promise that we are going to stop lingering, we are going to go to the Savior, follow the Savior, and ultimately, to enter His kingdom.  Do you hurry to get to the Savior (do you hasten to Him) or are you just lingering, taking your time?

“All the Way My Savior Leads Me” – no book

We live in a culture determined to lead us to believe and behavior in a particular way.  But as a child of God, our attitude and actions should be determined by Him and His will.  Who is leading your life?  Are you following in line with the ideals (behavior) of our culture, or are you being lead by the Savior…all the way?

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A Terrifying Thing!

Some sights and sounds can be frightening when you first see or hear them.  048Perhaps it’s the unknown that gives us a chill, but the cry of a stray cat in the dark of the night, or the wind blowing through the branches of tree on a dark street can be a little spooky this time of year.  The dark, majestic home with turn-of-the-century architecture can be a beautiful sight, but why do we feel anxiety when that same house is shrouded in darkness?  It must be the unseen and lack of knowing that makes things ‘scary.’  But not all terrifying things come from what we can’t see or hear.

Situations like these, the spooky house and cries in the night, pale in comparison to how fearful we should be when we step head long into sin and reject the Word of God.  In the 10th chapter of the book of Hebrews, the Hebrew writer speaks about judgement and says, “It is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God.”  Many will live their life unconcerned about eternity.  Though some my think about it, many give no mind to life after death.

Once there were two very affluent men who were challenged with living a righteous life, exercising self-control and accepting the judgement to come.  One man ‘even believed…’, but both were reluctant to accept Christ.  The first man was afraid and told the messenger to, “Go away…” His counterpart, in turn, replied, “Almost you persuade…”  These two Roman leaders (Felix and Agrippa) heard what needed to be done to turn from their lives of sin, but wouldn’t move themselves to action.

How many thousands of people today, hear the word of God, believe the message, and yet fail to do what needs to be done to be right with God?  Situations abound where someone knows what to do, but refuses to take the necessary steps.  ‘It’s not convenient for me…’, ‘I’m comfortable where I am…’ or ‘Just go away…maybe some other time…’  Every excuse is a step farther away from the living God.  Each element within the rejection can mean terrifying results for the one who, ‘falls into the hand of the living God.’  Philip Bliss understood that terror and wrote what might have been Governor Felix’s, or King Agrippa’s response to Paul in Acts chapter 24 and 26.  For years Christian’s have sung this old spiritual song as an invitation to come to God.

 


“Almost persuaded” now to believe; “Almost persuaded” Christ to receive;
Seems now some soul to say, “Go, Spirit, go Thy way,
Some more convenient day On Thee I’ll call.”
“Almost persuaded,” come, come today; “Almost persuaded,” turn not away;
Jesus invites you here, Angels are lingering near
Prayers rise from hearts so dear; O wanderer, come!
“Almost persuaded,” harvest is past! “Almost persuaded,” doom comes at last!
“Almost” cannot avail; “Almost” is but to fail!

034Sad, sad, that bitter wail – “Almost,” but lost!
Spooky old houses and howls in the night may send a chill down your spine.  Scary thoughts waft through the night air as we walk dark lonely streets.  But nothing is as fearful as ‘almost’ confessing Christ; ‘almost’ being baptized into His name and ‘almost’ giving your life over to Him.  Some will say, ‘almost’, while others say ‘go away.’  But what a terrifying thing to reject Him and fall into the hands of the living God!

 

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

Have you ever considered the difference between hearing and listening?  We hear Listeningthe 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 shacklesmid-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?  taking a stepOur 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!”

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More Than a Coincidence

Late Night StudyConcerning a particular situation or a specific set of circumstances some might said, ‘What a coincidence!’  But how do we know if something is coincidental (lucky) or if it’s more likely providential?  Often we look at life and see it as lucky or unlucky, black or white and yet all the while we might be missing the point.  Perhaps we come up short of giving God the credit He deserves for working in our lives.  Perhaps we need to be better about recognizing and seeing that God’s hands are working in ways we can not see.  (Remember the song “God Will Make a Way.”)  After all, don’t we pray for Him to be with us?

 

Consider two Christian song writers from this century; Chisholm and Sanderson.  T.O. Chisholm was a well to chisholmrenowned American song writer during the early 1900’s.  Many of his 1,200 works of Christian poetry have found their way into some of our hymnals.  In 1960, at the age of 94, Chisholm passed from this life.  His works are well documented but we’ll consider one that was born on a lonely, dark night.

Another well noted writer and composer from the same era was L.O. Sanderson.  Sanderson was a preacher of the gospel as well a noted musician.  He is recognized as one who wrote the words and music to many of our gospel songs.  He was born in 1901 and passed lo sandersonaway in 1992, at the age of 91.  Like Chisholm, Sanderson penned the music to one particular song in the dark hours of the night.  Perhaps it’s not surprising that these two men combined their talents to produce some ‘greats songs of the church.’ 

It was recorded that one night around midnight, Sanderson was working alone in his office.  He had been preparing his sermon for the coming Sunday morning, but a new, specific tune kept running through his mind.  To satisfy his musical creativity, he stopped his study and jotted down the musical notes.  In a few short weeks he sent the music to his friend, T.O. Chisholm, and inquired of him if had any poetry to fit the scales.  As Chisholm reviewed the work of his friend, he found the musical bars (the meter, 11.10.11.10) were a perfect fit for the poetry he penned, “Be with me, Lord – I can not live without Thee, I dare not try to take one step alone, I cannot bear the loads of life, unaided, I need Thy strength to lean myself upon…” 

As the two friends compared notes and asked each other questions about this specific work, they found that they both had similar circumstances surrounding their endeavors.  Both were working late one night (after midnight to be precise), and both were preoccupied with some specific words, a specific tune, floating within their mind.  They were struggling to accomplish one task while trying to embrace this new song.  And yet both were unable to be resolution to their struggle until they put their music, poetry, to paper.  The extraordinary piece of this puzzle was that both men were creating this song of praise and affirmation some 1000’s of miles apart.  Could it have been a coincidence or just plain lucky?  Was this just a great accident of hymnology or was our God, the Great Composer, at work in creating a hymn for His people to sing for the ages?

Two men of God, in two separate towns divided by hundreds of miles sitting in their respective offices churning out their own contribution to this hymn of prayer.  Perhaps Chisholm’s inspiration in the third verse explains this more clearly; “…a constant sense of Thy abiding presence, where ‘er I am, to feel that Thou art near.”

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Winning First Place…Oct. 20th

2nd place...How excited is the Olympic athlete when he/she comes in second?  Why are we thrilled to come in first, but fall into the doldrums of depression when we lose?  The athlete prepares themselves to win, and stand on the podium for the gold medal, not the silver.  Even in life we strive for first place…never for second.

Even Paul urged us to ‘…Run in such a way that you may win.’  (Obviously he is referring to the ‘imperishable wreath.’)  So shouldn’t we strive for first place?  Perhaps we need to consider what race we’re running?  Maybe we get to focused on running in the wrong race.  Or maybe our competitive nature causes us to ‘run over’ some folks who actually may be needing help running the race.  Or just maybe, we are striving to win in the world rather than looking at heaven’s race.  What ever the case, what is it that we should be running for?  Christ told us in Mark 12…the most important thing, our goal is to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength.  When we do that, then we’ll be in 1st Place!

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

Sunday morning, October 20, 2013

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

“I Will Call Upon the Lord” – 63

The Lord Lives!  We open our worship time together singing scripture (Psalm 18:3).  David wrote, “I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies.”  Perhaps we know this song so well we forget that we have deliverance from those who hate us.  In a world torn by division we should all be seeking pure hearts, loving our God first and calling upon Him often.

pure in heart“Purer in Heart, O God” – 671

How do you devote your life?  Are you concerned about where you’re walking, how you’re living?  We sing this hymn (a song of prayer) asking for God’s guidance and protection.  It’s an encouragement to me as I hear my brothers and sisters in Christ singing and praying for God to ‘help me to be pure in heart, so that one day I may see Your holy face…’  Would that we all long for God to reign within our lives (within our souls).

“One Day!” – 353

The first verse of this song takes us back to the day of Christ’s birth, when He came to earth.  We continue with the second verse looking to ‘Calvary’s mountain’ and His suffering.  The third verse will take us to the tomb where He was laid.  But the chorus is our focus as we sing this song before the Lord’s Supper; “Living, He loved me; Dying, He saved me; Buried, He carried my sins far away; Rising, He justified freely forever…One day He’s coming (back), Oh glorious day!”   Christ gave Himself so we might be ‘justified,’ by definition: “To be declared free of blame.”  Though we are sinful men, if we give our lives to Christ and are baptized into His death, we have been declared free of sin because of His death on Calvary’s mountain.

“Majestic Sweetness” – 530

Notice the title of this song and where ‘majestic sweetness’ is enthroned.  The answer; “…upon the Savior’s brow;” (head)  Now consider the 3rd verse; “He saw me plunged in deep despair and flew to my relief; for me He bore the shameful cross, and carried all my grief.”  Certainly we owe Him our life and breath, and all the joys we have.  It’s no surprise that Samuel Stennett would concluded this hymn with the phrase…“Had I a thousand hearts to give, Lord they should all be Thine…”  

“Teach Me Thy Way, O Lord” – 762

Remember the old adage, ‘you can’t teach an old dog new tricks?’  It’s true for many areas in life, but when it comes to Godliness we better take a look at how teachable we are.  When I’m lost I’m more than eager to have someone ‘show me the way’.  When I am sad of heart or when fears and doubts arise, I’m more receptive to being comforted and consoled.  As we sing about God’s guidance, would that we long to be taught His ways!

“The Greatest Commands” – 448

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

“Let Him Have His Way with Thee” – no book

This old spiritual song will serve as our invitation as we ask the question, “Would you live for Jesus and be always pure and good?”  If you say ‘Yes’, then you will choose to let Him have His way with you.  But what does that mean?  It means that His power, His blood and His love will all be first and foremost in your life.  Then ‘you will see ’twas best for Him to have His way with thee.’

“Hear, O Israel” – 446greatest commandment

Theses words are taken straight from the Bible (and sung already this morning).  It is first found in Deuteronomy chapter 6, but is repeated by Christ in the gospels.  This morning, our basis for study will be Mark 12 when Christ is asked, “What commandment is the foremost of all?”  (verse 28)  His reply, as He so powerful demonstrated time and again, was to sight the scripture.  “The Lord our God is one Lord; and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart…soul…mind… and strength.”  Question: How are we doing in life, are we winning first place?

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Are You A Citizen?…October 13th

man without a countryPhilip 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?
solid rock

“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?

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An Intimidating Student…October 6th

sunsetSunday morning sermon’s are designed to encourage, inspire and motivate the listener, believer and unbeliever alike, to draw closer to the the Word of God.  The preacher will often put a title on his sermon to pull the audience toward the message with anticipation and interest.  So what can we know from the title of this morning’s lesson, “An Intimidating Student?”

Read Acts chapter 18 beginning in verse 23 as we consider a teacher (one who was ‘fervent in spirit’) being taught ‘more accurately’ the way of God.  Often when the teacher is ‘corrected’ the results can be controversial at best.  But notice the outcome when this teacher turns out to be ‘an intimidating student.’

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

Sunday morning, October 6, 2013

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

“To God Be the Glory” -4

A strong song of praise as the worship services begin.  With passion and conviction the congregation will join in one voice and sing, “To God be the glory, great things He has done..”  We know the greatest of our God and His wonderful love for us as we remember that even, ‘…the vilest offenders who truly obey…’ have the hope of heaven.

“We Have Come Into His House” -296

“We have come into His house, and gathered in His name to worship Him!”  Though the building that sets at 1409 N. Waterview is only a building, we remember David’s words in Psalm 122, “I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord.”  Are we glad to come together and worship God as a united people?  God’s people know the importance of being together…in HIS house.

“When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” -315

When was the last time you surveyed the cross?  How do you survey the cross?  We come together and remember our Lord’s death and resurrection every first day of the week.  We turn our minds and hearts to the cross.  We do as Jesus command, ‘…do this…in remembrance of Me.’  Survey, by definition can mean, “to view or examine.”  But it can also mean, “to calculate.”  Have you calculated the cross?  It’s worth more than we will ever know.  It’s worthy of our examination.  Perhaps this Sunday morning you’ll survey the cross more closely than before.

“I Gave My Life to Thee” -354

‘What hast thou brought for Me?’  This song ends each verse with the question, “…what have you give for Me…have you left all for Me…what have you borne for Me?”  Questions, if you will, asked by our Savior.  When we’re baptized into Christ we say we give Him our lives.  But it’s not a one time, I’ve done it, I’m saved.  We are called to give Him our lives, each and every day.  He gave His life for me, am I willing to give Him my life?

“Be with Me, Lord“ -778

A beautiful song of prayer where we ask God’s guidance, direction and protection.  When you’re lonely, where do you turn?  When you feel like crying, whose shoulder do you lean on?  When death is at your door…who will you be with as you depart for ‘worlds unknown?’  My prayer… “Be with me, Lord, I cannot live (or die) without Thee.”

“I Love to Tell the Story” -659

Do you love a good story? Some like to hear ’em and others like to tell ’em.  Would that we all love to tell the story of Jesus because, “…some have never heard the message of salvation from God’s own holy word.”  Are you one who tells the story?

“Will You Not Tell it Today?” -628

Before the lesson we sang of telling the story; as our invitation song we ask the question, “…will you not tell it today?”  It’s interesting to me that we declare, ‘If the name of the Savior is precious to you…’ then why won’t you tell others about Him?  I love Jesus but I don’t talk about Him with my friends makes as much sense as saying we love our spouse, but don’t want to be seen in public with them.  Are we that way with Christ?  If not, ‘…if your faith in the Savior has brought it’s reward…will you not tell it today?”

“Send the Light” -650send the light

What is the call that comes ringing over the restless wave?  It’s a call for salvation from a lost people.  Many are lost and without Christ.  Do we care enough to ‘answer their call?’  Think of the comfort we find in Christ.  We have the Light in a dark world.  Since we have light and can help others find their way, why don’t you share it?  Why don’t we ‘send the light?’   

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The Opportunity of Weakness…September 29th

strength-in-weaknessThis 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 valleythe 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 old man prayingcourageously.”  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?”

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A Golden Opportunity

Have you ever wished you had known about something that was coming up so you could have been a part of it?  A presentation or special program that you would have promoted, supported or at least attended if someone had ‘clued you in’ on the opportunity.  Sometimes we find out about things after the fact and, to be honest, at that time, it’s a little too late.  The chance to participate and grow would have been tantrum girla welcome part of your schedule, but instead…you missed a golden opportunity.

The young mother would have benefited from the seminar on parenting and child raising, but no invitation was offered to her.  The old coach would like to have seen and heard the athlete who was scheduled to speak at the fund raiser; but no one thought to send the old man an invitation.  Granted, they might not have gone to the event, but you’ll never know unless you invite them.  We miss some great opportunities to enrich the lives of others simply because we don’t say anything.  We know some great gem of interest, but hold it to ourselves and miss a golden opportunity.  Why do we pass up those moments to encourage and reach out?  Are we just too busy taking care of our wants that we don’t give thought to what someone else might enjoy, or need?

Maybe the answer lies in our attitude or perhaps in our lack of courage and conviction.  Either way, if you have some good news to share and an invitation to offer but instead hold it back you are, for all practical purposes, taking away an opportunity.

The same can be said about our faith in Christ.  Certainly you’ve read Matthew 28 as our Savior exhorts us to, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit…”  But how will ‘the nations’ become disciples (be baptized) if they have never hear about the Son?  Romans 10:14 states it best; “How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed? How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher?”  There must be someone who will teach (preach) about the Savior.  Someone must be ready to offer an invitation to ‘come’ and know about Jesus.  Who will tell your friends about heaven?  Will you share with them the golden opportunity for salvation?

In the early 1900’s, James Rowe penned a song that some classify as sad and ‘depressing.’  A song that reminds us of the responsibility we have to teach (even show) our faith in Christ to our friends.  Have you taken the time to tell someone about Jesus?  They can never believe unless they hear and they’ll never hear unless they are told.  Don’t wait for someone else to ‘offer the invitation’, that opportunity of a life time is yours and yours alone.

When in the better land, before the bar we stand
how deeply grieved our souls will be
If any lost one there should cry in deep despair;
‘You never mentioned Him to me.’

Refrain:confused man
You never mentioned Him to me.
Nor help me not the light to see,
You met me day by day and knew I was astray
Yet never mentioned Him to me.

O let us spread the word, where ‘er it may be heard
Help groping souls the light to see.
That yonder none may say, ‘You showed me not the way.’
You never mentioned Him to me.

Refrain:

A few sweet words may guide a lost one to His side
or turn sad eyes to Calvary.
So work as days go by, that yonder none may cry,
‘You never mentioned Him to me.’

Refrain:

The old athlete might enjoy hearing some motivational talk from his younger counterpart, and the young mother might need help raising her child in the nurture and admonition of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4).  But will anyone invite them to come, learn and grown.  Without an invitation or a word of encouragement we miss a golden opportunity to provide that support.  But more over, without sharing Jesus to our friends and family we miss an even greater opportunity to ‘turn sad eyes to Calvary.’

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The Silence of the Lambs…September 22nd

Fearful of their surroundings, an unlikely threesome walk down a brick road chanting the infamous, “Lions and Tigers and Bears, O my…” They feared what many consider vicious predators.  Animals whose character is powerful and lions-tigers-bearsruthless.  It’s true, some of God’s creatures are not to be trifled with; but on the other hand, some are extremely passive and best described as vulnerable.  So why would the Son of God be classified as one of these?  Isaiah will describe Him as, ‘a lamb led to slaughter.’  Non-aggressive and defenseless is a good description for a lamb.

A silent lamb led to its shearers is the way Isaiah describes Christ.  Not kicking back, roaring or ‘fighting to the end.’  Mark states clearly at Christ’s ‘trial’ that He, “…kept silent and did not answer.”  Join us this coming Sunday morning at Waterview church of Christ as we’ll be looking at the innocent and un-protesting Lamb of God.

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

Sunday morning, September 22, 2013

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

 “We Praise Thee, O God”

This is a wonderful, old hymn that dates back to the days before our country’s Civil War; a song that transcends time and brings ecstasy to the singer and listener alike.  Though penned more than 150 years ago, it still as a powerful message.  The first two verses begin, “We praise Thee, O God,”  while the next two verses begin, “All glory and praise…”  Beautiful words of exclamation, but least we lose sight of what we’re singing we conclude the chorus (and being the final verse) with the phrase, “Revive us again…”

“The Old Rugged Cross”

Some hymn writers have a wide collection of songs they’ve written over the years.  Authors and composers like Isaac Watts, Fanny J. Crosby, Albert Brumley, William Doane and Tillet S. Teddlie to name a few.  But for one man, George Bennard, his call to fame came in one song and one song alone, ‘The Old Rugged Cross.’  What a message of salvation from the pen of this man who turns our minds back in time to, ‘a hill far away’ as we remember the cross of Christ.

 “Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross”

The third verse of this song will be sung between the bread and the fruit of the vine as we consider coming near the cross.  The plea for us to visualize our Lord’s death on the cross comes as we sing, “Near the cross! O Lamb of God, bring its scenes before me…”  Maybe some would rather not focus on that scene.  It was a murder scene and one that was graphic as you think about his hands, feet and side.  Not to mention the crown of thorns.  We need to stay near the cross because all that pain and sorrow was on our account.  He died for you and me.

“Worthy is the Lamb”

We’ve sung this before as we take the tune from Just As I Am and put it to some words and thoughts found around the throne of God in the book of Revelation.  When we can sing the scripture (a psalm) it makes for stronger understand of the text.  But when the words we sing are noted as having been sung around the throne of God…now that’s powerful.  We’ll sing: “You alone are worthy to open its seals, because You were slain and gave Your blood.  You purchased every man for God O worthy is the Lamb.”  Revelation 5:9 reads: “Worthy are You to worthy-is-the-lambtake the book and to break its seals; for You were slain, and purchased for God with Your blood men from every tribe and tongue and people and nation.”

“You Are My All in All”

“Jesus, Lamb of God, worthy is Your name!”  We’ll sing this contemporary song as we consider where our strength comes from, and what types of treasures we truly are seeking.  Interestingly enough how many people really believe what they say in that first verse; “Lord, to give up I’d be a fool…”  Defined:  ‘A person lacking judgment’…giving up on God is not only foolish, it’s life threatening.

 “Lamb of God”

The scripture reading just before this song is Isaiah 53:7, “…and like a sheep that is silent before its shearers, so He did not open His mouth.”  This inspired prophecy of Christ’s trial and crucifixion is captured by Isaiah the prophet, and we’ll follow it as we sing, “O Lamb of God, sweet Lamb of God…”

 “I Will Sing of My Redeemer”

This song has an interesting chorus, “Sing, O sing of my redeemer, Sing O sing of my Redeemer; with His blood He purchased me, with His blood He purchased me, on the cross He sealed my pardon, on the cross He sealed my pardon, paid the debt and made me free and made me free, and made me free.”  How often we sing, but fall short of listening to what we’re singing.  Why repeat these words?  Is it just for filler, or to enhance the harmony?  Maybe we just like the way we’re echoing the ladies part?  Or is there something more?  Maybe it’s important enough that it’s worth repeating…for emphasis.  Yes, I’ll sing!

 “Redeemed”

The song before our lesson, has a strong upbeat tempo.  But in case you haven’t noticed, this song uses the word ‘redeemed’ a total of 7 times…in the first verse alone.  How thankful are we for the redemption we have in Christ.  Because of the blood of the Lamb of God I can sing that I am, “…His child, and forever, I am.”

“Have You Been to Jesus?”       

An invitation, in its purest form, is a question.  Will you come to the party?  We send drop of bloodinvitations to ask for a response to our questions.  Each Sunday the preacher ‘offers the invitation’ for those who will respond to come to Christ.  How fitting, as we have sung and talked about the Lamb of God, that we would ask the question; “Have you been to Jesus for the cleansing power; are you walking daily by the Savior’s side…are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?”  How will you answer (have you answered) the invitation?

 “We Will Glorify”

A contemporary song that proclaims what the people of God long to do…we want to (we will) glorify our God!  How often we sing with spirit and truth, but remember we must sing with understanding too.  This first verse alone gives glory to the King of Kings, the Lamb and the Lord of Lords.  But did you notice the last line of this verse (and the fourth)…?  Who is the Great I Am!  That’s not a question asking who the great I Am is, it’s a statement that the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords and the Lamb are all the great I Am…