Three Things God Wants From Us…June 2nd

We often ask God for safe travel and healing for the sick. Ever notice how our prayers are often saturated with what we want from God? But how much do we think about what God wants from us? Does He have any expectations of His children?

Sunday morning at Waterview church of Christ we’ll examine some things that God desires from His children. Consider how much you give to God when it comes to justice, kindness and humility. We often are prepared to travel to foreign mission fields and sign up for mission trips to comfort those who are suffering. But is our justice and kindness reserved only for those who are ‘afar off?’ How willing are we to be just, kind and humble to those we see every day, or maybe… every Sunday?

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

Sunday morning, June 2, 2013

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

“Let God Arise” – 471

Our call to worship is a contemporary song with roots from the 68th Psalm. A simple statement Christians should always remember, “May God arise, may His enemies be scattered…” How will it look when God’s enemies are scattered. Will you be standing with Him or His enemies?

“Higher Ground” – no book

An adaptation from the original by Johnson Oatman, this arrangement features the same music (for the most part) and the same words, yet with a slight twist. The above YouTube video follows the format that we’ll be singing this Sunday morning at Waterview. Enjoy the adjustment, but don’t miss the message; “I’m pressing on the upward way,”…stilling praying that the Lord will, “…plant my feet on higher ground.”

“In Memory of the Savior’s Love” – 335 & “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” – 315

These two songs will serve as a medley for the Lord’s supper. Verse one from the first song will proceed verse two from the second. Notice the flow; “…where every humble, contrite (penitent) heart is made a welcome guest.” “Forbid it Lord that I should boast, save in the death of Christ my Lord…” We’ll sing this will be before the bread, then before the fruit of the vine we’ll sing verses 2 & 3 from this medley. The songs will flow like this: “…The cup in token of His blood that was for sinner’s shed.” “See from His head, His hands, His feet, sorrow and love flow mingled down…” And as we close our time of remembrance we’ll switch the order of the songs and begin with verse 4 and close with verse 3. The message: “…Love so amazing, so divine, demands my soul, my life, my all.” “Beneath the banner thus we sing the wonders of His love…”

“Pierce My Ear” – no book

Taken from Exodus 21:1-6, and yet many tend to shy away from this song because of the misunderstanding of (or disagreement with) the title. But when we understand the Biblical reference behind this psalm (we are singing scripture) we can better understand that for a Hebrew slave to have his ear pierced was not a glamorous sign of independence. Instead, it meant a permanent, visual contract that displayed his prearranged bondage. To say you ‘wanted your ear pierced’ was a step toward giving up your every freedom to a life of slavery. Read the text, “If you buy a Hebrew servant, he is to serve you for six years. But in the seventh year, he shall go free, without paying anything. If he comes alone, he is to go free alone; but if he has a wife when he comes, she is to go with him. If his master gives him a wife and she bears him sons or daughters, the woman and her children shall belong to her master, and only the man shall go free.“But if the servant declares, ‘I love my master and my wife and children and do not want to go free,’then his master must take him before the judges. He shall take him to the door or the doorpost and pierce his ear with an awl. Then he will be his servant for life.” Now who is willing to sing?

“Where He Leads I’ll Follow” – 417

In keeping with our theme for this lesson we need to look no further than the last phrase from the first two verses of this song; “He the great example is the pattern for me…” When we truly Follow Jesus, we’ll be kind to the erring ones and faith like He is.

“‘Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus” – 679

Our invitation song calls us to trust Him. Personally, the second verse means more as we understand we’re singing about baptism. Notice it again, “O how sweet to trust in Jesus, just to trust His cleansing blood, just in simple faith to plunge me ‘neath (beneath) the healing, cleansing flood.” Sometimes I wonder how many have sung this song over the years and missed that critical message of baptism.

“Oh, to Be Like Thee” – 429

As we draw this song service to a close, this hymn reminds us of what God wants from us; to be like Him. Again, see the second verse; “Oh, to be like Thee! Full of compassion, loving, forgiving, tender and kind, helping the helpless, cheering the fainting, seeking the wandering sinner to find…” Is Jesus stamped on your heart?

1, May 20, 20131, May 21, 2013

Can We Improve the Service?

What makes service good and or bad? Perhaps the best example of ‘service’ comes when you consider your waiter or waitress. They offer a service for the customer that can either be useful or not.

Have you ever visited an elegant restaurant? As you walked in you receive a gracious welcome from your host. You are seated quickly, but then wait, and wait and wait for your menu. Throughout the evening your glass goes unfilled, and your questions unanswered. Most would consider this ‘poor’ service. Some might even say this is rotten service. Regardless, you are anticipating someone from this establishment to ‘serve’ you.

Another type of ‘service’ comes each Sunday morning many of us join together to worship our God. We sing and pray, partake of the Lord’s Supper and listen to a message from God’s word. We call this time together the “worship service.” But who are we serving during this time? Is this time of worship designed to serve men or God? We certainly should be trying to ‘get something’ out of the sermon, and be admonished from the psalms, hymns and spiritual songs (Colossians 3), but is this ‘service’ more than just a personal exercise? Ask yourself…am I looking to be served, or am I preparing myself to serve?

Before you come together with the saints for ‘services’, I encourage you to think about your attitude toward worship. What draws you to join the congregation of God’s people on the first day of the week? Would that our attitude reflect that of the Psalmist who wrote, “I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us enter into the house of the Lord’.” Psalm 122:1

If we’re truthful about the matter, people view worship services in a various ways. God meant this time to be an opportunity to grow closer to Him. This is an opportunity to give our best to the Creator. A chance to show Him how much we love Him by uniting in songs of praise and offering prayers in Jesus’ name. We should respect our Heavenly Father, and the method in which we serve and worship Him.

Consider some ideas as to how we might ‘improve’ our service when we come together to worship:

1) Attend every time the doors are open. Others will see that worship is a priority to you. You’ll be demonstrating your desire to be with the family of God and not ‘forsaking’ the assembly (Hebrews 10:25).

2) Arrive early and when possible, stay late. This will show your brothers and sisters in Christ that you really want to be there. It also helps as we encourage others . Much of what we do is really not for ourselves, but for others. (Remember…we’ve come to serve!) By coming early and staying late you might be the one who helps someone in need of encouragement.

3) Be positive with other Christians about the worship time and about one another. No place is ever going to be perfect, and rarely do all worship services meet all of our expectations and desires. But then again remember, we’ve come to serve…WHO?

4) Take more responsibility (and pride) as you participate. Bringing excitement and enthusiasm to the service will strengthen everyone involved. Consider this, do you like it when your waitress serves you with a smile?

5) Believe that spending time in worship is worthwhile. Sing and pray with all your heart. It is not how well we sing that matters to God, it’s our attitude about singing that counts. I truly believe that while we listen to the voice of the singer, God listens to the singer’s heart.

Perhaps these five points will help us as we consider our worship service next Sunday. Remember, often what we receive depends on how much we are willing to give. Most would agree it comes down to answering the following question,

“What can we do to improve the service?”

1, May 17, 20131, May 19, 2013

The Sound of Silence…May 19th

Ask any parent who has young children and they will assure you the sound of silence is best experienced when those angelic children are sleeping. As the parent of three teens the sound of silence is harder to find, but it’s still best when they sleep. Yet the question remains, are there other times when silence reigns?

This Sunday morning, May 19th, we will talk about another time for silence. Often we’re silent when we are humbled and have nothing say. Other times we hear nothing but silence when we’re wrong or ashamed. But consider those who are righteous; could they demonstrate the sound of silence?

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

Sunday morning, May 19, 2013

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

“Praise Him! Praise Him” – 300
“He’s My King” -166
“O Worship the King” – 144

This three-song medley will open our time of worship as we transition between each of the first verses of these hymns. The intent of placing these three hymns back-to-back is to build upon the message. Notice how we conclude with, “…Praise Him! Praise Him! Ever in joyful song.” and then begin with “All day long of Jesus I am singing…” Would that we keep a song always in our hearts, ‘all day long.’ The second concludes with “…He’s my Savior He’s my King.” and then fittingly we pick up with, “O Worship the King, all glorious above…” Notice how verse one concludes, “…Pavilioned in splendor and girded with praise.” Pavilion is a covering and to gird something is to surround or wrap it up. So we conclude this medley as we sing that our ‘Shield and our Defender’ is covered with splendor (majesty) and surrounded with praise. Indeed…”Praise Him! Praise Him!”

“We Give Thee But Thine Own” – 663

As we prepare for an opportunity to give (contribution), we’ll sing this old hymn that echoes the thoughts of First Chronicles 29:14, “We have given You only what comes from Your hand.” You’ll need to listen carefully to the old English in verse one; “All that we have is Thine alone, a trust, O Lord, from Thee.”

“When He Cometh” – 714

This morning the children will bring their quarters to the front as we collect for the Breakfast Program in Nicaragua. We’ll sing “Jesus Loves the Little Children” as they come forward, but then transition to the third verse of the song “When He Cometh.” Written in the 1860’s the sentiment it timeless, “Little children, little children who love their Redeemer are the jewels, precious jewels, His loved and His own…”

An extra song (though not being sung this morning) to help share the idea of how we can experience ‘the sound of silence.’ This song is compliments of the McCoy Family Singers, Have a Quiet Time with God Every Day

Our song before the lesson…
“O Listen to the Wondrous Story” – 496

The questions (conversation) in the chorus remind us that many still don’t know the answer to the basic question of salvation. As the singers remind us, “…Yet, One came down from heaven’s glory, saving us at (an) awful cost… The ladies continue into the chorus: “Who saved us from eternal loss!’ (not a question) But the men do respond with a rhetorical question; “Who but God’s Son upon the cross?” Now listen to the Q&A that goes back and forth… “What did He do? He died for you! Where is He now? Believe it… (in unison) In heaven interceding!” As the voices swell, so does the message!

“Be Still and Know” – 31

As we conclude the Lord’s Supper we’ll sing the words of God from Psalm 46:10, “Cease striving and know that I am God…” Maybe when we do that (stop striving, translated ‘let go and relax’) we’ll hear the sound of silence.

“Jesus is Coming Soon” – 712

“Troublesome times are here filling men’s hearts with fear, freedom we all hold dear now is at stake…” Interesting to note, this song dates back to the early 1940’s, just shortly after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, as our country struggled from an unprovoked attack, R.E. Winsett penned these words. In the face of disaster we so often turn to God. This time in our country’s history was no different. Only with this spiritual song we sing to encourage and remind the listener that, “Jesus is coming soon.”

“Humble Thyself” – 745

Not a typical invitation song, but one that perhaps will help us focus on the message from this morning’s lesson. Another psalm (I Peter 5) that entreats us to turn our busy lives and troubled hearts over to God. When we are humbled and relying on Him (in silence) He will lift us up!

“Sweet Peace” – 115

What is your foundation set upon? Do you take peace in knowing that God is in control? Our closing song tells us that because of Christ’s sacrifice (on the cross) we can have peace. “Through Christ on the cross, peace was made, my debt by His death was all paid. No other foundation is laid, for peace…” Now that’s the sound of silence!

1, May 6, 20131, May 6, 2013

The Best Refuge…Ever!

Though this spiritual song was new to me, it was born in the mind of Caroline Sandell Berg in 1858. It’s origin comes from the ‘Song Book for Sunday School’, and as you listen to this choral arrangement, you’ll be able to hear the shades of a lullaby. The YouTube video is from Cal-State University Choir, choral archives, dating back to December, 1962.

“Children of the Heavenly Father
Safely in His bosom gather;
Nestling bird nor star in heaven
Such a refuge e’er was given.

Neither life nor death shall ever
From the Lord His children sever;
Unto them His grace He showeth,
And their sorrows all He knoweth.

Though He giveth or He taketh,
God His children ne’er forsaketh,
His the loving purpose solely
To preserve them pure and holy.

God His own doth tend and nourish;
In His holy courts they flourish,
From all evil things He spares them;
In His mighty arms He bears them.”

Consider that third verse; what exactly IS God’s purpose with us? Are we just an experiment that He started several, thousands of years ago? Or is there something more than life and death we can be looking forward to? Are we any better off than a bird that nestles in the trees or a star that flashes in the night sky? As children of God, we believe that He is in control. And we know that our life is under His rule. He can take away, and He often generously gives, but why are we here, what is His purpose?

We take hope in knowing the God loves us and desires all to come to know Him. We read this promise in 2nd Peter chapter 3, verse 8 and 9…“But do not let this one fact escape your notice, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years is like one day. The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.”

Remember verse three…His purpose, His loving purpose, His only loving purpose is for His children to come back to Him. As Caroline penned over 150 years ago, ‘…to preserve them (us) pure and holy.’ Do we desire God as much as He desires us? We flourish because of His grace. We are spared from all evil because of His mighty arm. We are children of the heavenly Father with the best ‘refuge’ ever!

1, April 27, 20131, April 27, 2013

Asking Directions on the Way to Canaan…April 28th

At Waterview church of Christ, we are dedicated to studying, learning and following God’s word. Robert Oglesby will present a message this morning that is designed to help us focus on our ‘journey’ to heaven.

How much thought do you give to your ultimate destination? Is heaven just an assumed ‘next step’ or is it there something we should be preparing for? Whether our skies are clear, or overcast, we know our goal. The children of God, struggled on their journey to the Promise Land (40 years worth of struggles), yet this morning, consider the questions we ask as we’re Bound for the Promised Land.

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

Sunday morning, April 28, 2013

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

“The Steadfast Love of the Lord” – 123

This psalm is the text as we sing the praises found in Lamentations 3:22-24, “The Lord’s loving kindness indeed never ceases, for His compassion’s never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness. ‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘Therefore I will hope in Him.’ So what do you mean when you sing, ‘The Lord is my portion…’? By definition, a portion can be an inheritance…

“Sing On, Ye Joyful Pilgrims” – 747

Have you ever been ‘lost in thought?’ Someone asks you a question, but your mind was somewhere else? In the chorus of this ‘spiritual song’ we sing… “My heart is filled with rapture (extreme joy), my soul is lost in praise.” Of all things we could be wrapped up in (lost in), how much more worthy to be lost in praise. It makes sense that we would…sing on, ye joyful pilgrims!

“The Lord’s Supper” – no book

The title of this song lets the singer/listener know what we’re focused on. Another title you might use to find this ‘psalm’ would be ‘When We Meet in Sweet Communion’. We remember the Lord’s death as we communion together around the table and obey His words, “…do this in remembrance of Me.” (I Corinthians 11:24)

“By Christ Redeemed” – 366

We find the basis of this spiritual song in I Corinthians 11:26, “For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.” We have an obligations, an honor, to partake in this memorial of our Savior for as long as we live…or until He comes!

“There is a Redeemer” – 287

We sing the affirmation of this contemporary hymn/spiritual song as we proclaim, “There is a Redeemer, Jesus, God’s own Son…” Melody Green wrote, and we sing, a song of thanks to God. “Thank You for giving us Your Son and leaving with us the gift of the Holy Spirit…until our work is done.” How are you doing with YOUR work?

“Here We Are But Straying Pilgrims” – 537

I enjoy singing in unison the verses of this song, then blend our voices in the chorus with a full, 4-part harmony. But don’t get caught up in the music and miss the message. Does your path seem dim or are your feet weary? Have you ever thought of the clouds of doubt and fear as a ‘lurking foe?’ Just remember that the Lord is our defender, and know that singing a song of heaven will cheer your way. Why…because “Yonder over the rolling river…soon will be our home, forever!”

“We’re Marching to Zion” – 869

As a medley with the previous song, this ‘spiritual song’ call those that love the Lord to come, and let our joys been made known. In other words, let’s sing so the world will know that we love God, and we’re living so we can go to heaven (we’re marching to Zion).

“I Am Bound for the Promised Land” – 889

The words of this song were written by Samuel Stennett in 1787, but don’t mistake it with “On Jordan’s Stormy Banks I Stand” (page 886). Though the message is over 225 years old, it’s still true for us today… “I’m bound for the Promised Land…”

“When Upon Life’s Billows” – 742

Also known as “Count Your Many Blessings”, this song by Johnson Oatman in 1897 encourages us to recognize how God impacts our lives. Whether we’re tossed on the sea of life, discouraged thinking ‘all is lost’ or feeling as though the cares and doubts of life burden us, do you see the blessings of God? If you’ll count the blessings God has given you, it will surprise you to know what the Lord had done?

“God Bless You, Go with God” – 752

We’ll close our morning services as we sing to admonish one another, “God bless you, go with God.” We understand this cruel world will test us and hurl lies at us, but the only hope we have is in Christ. Let’s sing to encourage each other and always be praying for each other. This is my daily prayer…that God will bless you and that you will go with God!

1, April 19, 20131, April 19, 2013

Crossing the Finish Line…April 21st

Monday afternoon, April 15th, our country suffered yet another ‘terrorist’ attack. As the runners neared the finish line of the Boston Marathon, a bomb shattered the lives of hundreds and thousands of people. Even while we are ‘running the race’ and trying to finish strong, tragedy can strike at our hearts. But I encourage the reader to turn to God, and worship.

This Sunday morning, April 21st, we will talk about another finish line. The one that we all will cross as life comes to a close. Our lesson is designed to draw us closer to thinking about how we are running the race of life. No anticipation of explosions and surprises, but we are all running toward the finish line.

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

Sunday morning, April 21, 2013

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

“I Stand Amazed” – 147

This spiritual song is one that we could use to prepare our minds for the Lord’s Supper. With both the second and third verse referencing Christ crucifixion we are reminded of his ‘sweat drops of blood‘ and the burden He bore to Calvary. So it shouldn’t be a surprise for the redeemed to sing the refrain… “O how marvelous! O how wonderful! Is my Savior’s love for me.”

“I Sing Praises” – 97

Written almost 25 years ago, this contemporary song is basic in format. With the title being the first verse, the Christian offers a hymn to our Lord. “I sing praises to Your name, O Lord, praises to Your name…for Your name is great and greatly to be praised.” The Psalmist writes, “I will praise You among the nations.” (Psalm 18:49)

“In Christ Alone” – no book

Consider this song of admonition as we prepare our minds to commemorate our Lord’s death, burial and resurrection. As verse one consist of recognizing our Cornerstone, solid ground and Comforter, verse two takes us from His birth to His crucifixion. Those who know this song cherish the third verse. As we begin singing softly of His burial, our voices ‘burst forth’ as we sing of His resurrection. The final verse gives us the assurance of our security in Christ as we sing, ‘No power of hell, no scheme of man can ever pluck me from His hand…”

“Beneath the Cross of Jesus” – 314

For this morning’s worship service, we’ll sing only the 3rd and 4th verses of this spiritual song. As we pause between the bread and the fruit of the vine, together we’ll look ‘Upon that cross of Jesus…the very dying form of One who suffered there for me…” As we continue singing this verse ask yourself if your heart is indeed smitten with tears when you consider His glorious love and our (my own) worthlessness.

“Consider Him” – 593

Not necessarily a familiar psalm, but as we sing, we’ll be singing scripture. In Hebrews 12:1-3, we read of the encouragement we find in knowing that we’re surrounded by those who have gone before us. Do you get worn out in life as you ‘run the race?’ The Hebrew writer encourages us to “…consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners…” Why consider Him? “…so that you may not grow weary and lose heart.”

“Hilltops of Glory” – no book

“Onward rejoicing, I tread life’s way…” This song before our lesson dates back to the mid 1950’s and we sing about pressing on toward heaven. The chorus posses a great question, “O brother, won’t you come go with me?” How will you answer the chorus? Maybe you need to ask yourself, ‘Am I asking the question?’

“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? This invitation song begins with the call to ‘Hear the sweet voice of Jesus…’ 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.

“Hold to God’s Unchanging Hand” – 613

What does it mean ‘time is filled with swift transition?’ Obviously swift is quick and transition is to change…so as we sing this song we’re saying, “time (life) changes fast”. How true…and this spiritual song encourages us to “hold to God’s hand” as time changes. It’s been said, “time changes everything”. There’s a lot of truth to that, but we can rest assured that when our journey is finished, and if we’ve been true to God, our joyful hearts will view glory. In the mean time, we’ve got to hold to God’s unchanging hand.

1, April 12, 20131, April 12, 2013

Parents Need Only Two Prayers…April 14th

A representative from a lesser known media outlet made the following statement earlier this week; “…we’ve always had kind of a private notion of children: Your kid is yours and totally your responsibility. We haven’t had a very collective notion of, ‘these are our children.’ So part of it is we have to break through our kind of private idea that kids belong to their parents, or kids belong to their families, and recognize that kids belong to whole communities…”

For years we have embraced the notion, “It takes a whole village to raise a child.” We must never forget God’s instruction is for parents to bring their children up in the Lord, Ephesians 6:1-4. Mothers and fathers (Families, not communities) are responsible for raising children. Proverbs 6:20, “My son, observe the commandment of your father and do not forsake the teaching of your mother.” There are some who would like the passage to read…My son, observe the commandment of your community leader and do not forsake the teaching of your neighbor.

This coming Sunday morning our lesson will be focused on how parents prepare for children, and how parents come to understand the obligation of bringing their children to God. As always, I hope you’ll remember the inspired words of Paul from the 14th chapter of I Corinthians; “…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.”

Sunday morning, April 14, 2013

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

“I Will Call Upon the Lord” – 63

Our opening song, the ‘call to worship’, comes from the book of Psalms, chapter 18:3…almost word for word. Penned in 1981, this contemporary psalm provides the singer a strong opportunity to express our deepest desire to ‘call upon the Lord.’

“Father, Hear the Prayer We Offer” – 777

Written over 150 years ago, this song is filled with poetry that stirs the heart…if you’ll take the time to examine the message. Notice the reference to Old Testament scripture in verse 2, “Not forever by still waters would we idly, quiet stay; but would smite the living fountains from the rocks along our way.” (Read Exodus 17: 5, 6)

“When My Love for Christ Grows Weak” – 350

Before we partake of the Lord’s Supper, we’ll sing this old spiritual song that reminds us to stay close to Christ. As we sing the first two verses we are reminded of Christ in the garden. The 3rd and 4th verses take us to Calvary as we sing, “There behold His agony, suffered on the bitter tree; see His anguish, see His faith…” But the final verse encourages us to learn from Christ, and to become self-sacrificing.

“More Precious than Silver” – 273

One of my favorite hymns (we are singing this song to our God) starts with the words, “Lord, You are more precious than silver…”. A song, as you look more closely at it, professing our desire for God and for God alone. We sing that He is more precious than silver…more costly than gold…more beautiful than diamonds. So I ask you, do I really believe that, or are you just singing it? Remember I Corinthian 14:15…

“When He Cometh” – 714

Known in some circles as a ‘child’s hymn’, this spiritual song reminds us that God will come back and take (collect) his children home. The chorus is an interesting analogy; “Like the stars of the morning, His bright crown adorning, they shall shine in their beauty, bright gems for His crown.” Who will shine in their beauty? Take a look at verse 3…“Little children, little children who love their Redeemer are the jewels, precious jewels, His loved and His own.”

“I Will Pray” – 840

“Father, in the morning…At the noontide…in the evening shadows…I will pray…Morning, noon and evening unto Thee I’ll pray.” How often do we pray? When times are tough and the going get’s rough? Perhaps when we’re happy and content. But read I Thessalonians 5:17, Paul tells us in to, “Pray without ceasing…” That would be morning, noon and evening!

“Hark! ‘Tis the Shepherd’s Voice” – 880

Another ‘children’s hymn’, this song calls for us to take on the responsibility of bringing our children (the lost) back to the fold of Christ. The words of Jesus from Matthew 18 sum it up pretty well; “What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine and go the mountains to seek the one that is straying?” Let’s sing and then let’s ‘bring them in!’

“God’s Family” – 744

As we close the service this morning, we’ll sing about the family of God. Do we really see each other as brothers and sisters? Can we say we laugh together? How often have you cried with a brother or sister in Christ? Do we share with each other our heartaches and sighs? When was the last time you shared your dreams with the family of God? On Sunday morning we should do more than just say “Hi…how are you doing?” as we hurry away to lunch. Remember, we are part of the family…that’s been born again!

1, April 10, 20131, April 5, 2013

SPRINGTIME!!!

Terry Harmon, my close friend and brother in Christ, once again provides us with one of his weekly bulletin articles. We’re reminded that the seasons come and go, and this is the time of year we can relish the freshness of springtime. Thanks Terry for this ‘seasonal’ reminder.

Have you noticed how the birds are singing and the trees are beginning to bud? With the recent, cooler weather and soaking rains the grass will be turning green in no time. H.A. Jacob says that life comes and goes just like the seasons. There are seasons of summer, when the sun reigns and the heat warms the earth’s crust. As the days begin to shorter, the weather begins to cool and autumn seems to burst into color. With the beauty of the red, gold and brown hues, we soon feel the promise of cooler nights. In short order, winter comes with the crisp, cold air and an occasionally frosting of snow and ice. But as the days begin to length, and the air begins to warm we realize the cycle of the seasons turns again to springtime.

Springtime is a beautiful picture of hope. Spring seems to assure us that no matter how cold and desolate; how bitter or solemn the winter, it will come to an end bursting forth with new life. Things will become green and tender again. Fruitfulness will return and we will grow. Springtime seems to say that we can be stronger than before. We can over come the dead of winter and live again.

Jacob asks what we should learn from the seasons. What can we take from the cycle of creation that will make us better, stronger and ultimately more Godly? Consider the following three points of growth:

1) The difficult seasons will come to an end. Nothing last forever and by enduring it, we can begin a new.

2) God is working in each season of our lives. He is preparing us to bring forth fruit in due season. Even though the pruning is painful, the results are worth it.

3) Other people are in a ‘season’ just like you. Some are in the season of winter and distress, needing the warmth of encouragement. Whether by a touch, a kind word or a gift of charity, encouragement is a tangible commodity. As Christians we need to be able to offer encouragement as we recognize the respective seasons of friends and family.

It is always ‘in season’ to speak words of encouragement. God will give us the tongue of a disciple which will speak to the weary words of strength and resolve. As we wake each day, and tune our ears to heaven, He will help us speak words of blessed assurance. “Therefore, encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing.” (I Thess. 5:11). “A man has joy by the answer of his mouth, and a word spoken in due season, how good it is!” (Proverbs 15:23). And Paul reminds us in Colossians 4:6, “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned as it were with salt, so that you may know how you should respond to each person.”

May your spring this year bring you a new and refreshing time. Even more so, may it be a budding time for each of us on a spiritual level. Let us keep our minds open as to where others are ‘seasonally’ in order to offer a word of encouragement!

1, April 8, 20131, April 7, 2013

A Roller Coaster Ride!

Personally, the best description for the last few days of March, 2013 would be a roller-coaster ride!

Emotions were flowing as we learned of my daddy’s passing on Saturday afternoon, March 23rd. Then within forty-eight hours, we spent sixteen hours traveling to Kansas and back for his graveside service. Though visiting with family was a blessing, laying the patriarch of our family to rest was difficult at best. The next forty-eight hours brought us to the annual LTC convention in Dallas (Leadership Training for Christ). An exciting, busy but certainly focused weekend for more than 1,000 saints in down-town Dallas. But the month of March was still not over; our youngest son decided he was ready to put Christ on in baptism…at 10:30 PM Saturday night, March 30th! An exhilarating lift as we continued to ride ‘the roller coaster.’ Oh wait, the next afternoon following morning services, my oldest drove back to Tennessee to resume the last two months of his freshman year. His first time to drive 9 hours…alone. If you could see the calendar of events and feel the emotional twisting and turning, you’d know these past few weeks have been a roller coaster ride.

So how does one put this in to prospective? Any time we lose a family member, we hurt; and anytime a lost sheep is found, we rejoice. When you feel those two strong emotions within a matter of days you realize priorities have to be set. What is most important and where do I put my focus?

One of the blessings we experienced at the memorial of my daddy was the assurance of his faith, and gentle hand of sympathy from brothers and sisters in Christ. Four of his grandson’s lead the singing and read scripture, while several others shared thoughts of encouragement. But as we closed the service we all joined in singing some songs of praise and inspiration. We closed the service with the song, “Softly and Tenderly”. The message was perfect as we sang about ‘coming home’ and in respect to my dad’s passing…I believe he was on his way home. But then as I considered my son’s baptism I realized that he too began his journey as he decided he was ready to ‘come home’. Each of these events, though separated by two different extremes, bring my mind toward what’s most important. Do we listen as Jesus is calling us home?

“Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling,
Calling for you and for me;
See, on the portals He’s waiting and watching,
Watching for you and for me.”

Refrain:
“Come home, come home,
Ye who are weary, come home;
Earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling,
Calling, O sinner, come home!”

This song is a wonderful call for the sinner, the lost lamb, to come back to the fold of God. And I certainly saw the implications as I realized my son was indeed turning his mind to follow Jesus and come home. But as we remembered the passing of our daddy, the third verse of this song rings true. Grim as it may be…it is so true…

“Time is now fleeting, the moments are passing,
Passing for you and for me;
Shadows are gathering, deathbeds are coming,
Coming for you and for me.”

Roller coasters are certain to come into our lives…whether we want them to or not. The question we must ask is how will we ride? Many enjoy the thrill of the lift while others hold on tight. We know there will be times when we cry out and wish the track would level off. But the best advise is to find the excitement at every turn and hold on tight! Know the ride will soon be over and the ups and downs will eventually level off. Take comfort in remembering Christ is at the controls of life. He knows your fears and He sees your tears. And when we come to give Him our lives, even the angels rejoice. Our Savior is pleading for us all to come home…softly and tenderly.

1, April 5, 20131, April 16, 2013

Does Anyone Know?…April 7th

Sunday morning, April 7th at Waterview church of Christ, we’ll be honored to hear a lesson from Kent Allen. Brother Allen is VP for Advancement for Oklahoma Christian University, and his message is sure to inspire us as we consider our outward display of faith.

Perhaps you’ve heard the comment; if you were on trial for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you? This morning we’ll consider just how much the world knows about OUR faith in God. We have the opportunity, better yet the obligation, to show Christ to a lost and dying world. The songs this morning are designed to make us think about our shining light.

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.”

I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, April 7, 2013

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

“Christ for the World We Sing” – 626

Have you looked closely at the first line in all three verses of this song? Notice: “Christ for the world!” That’s a statement we loudly proclaim and boldly sing. And we sing it with 1) loving zeal, 2) with fervent prayer and 3) in one accord. We sing this message to the world, but we also have a responsibility to bring the world to Christ.

“We Will Glorify” – 578

Written over 30 years ago, this song is still contemporary to many of us. Twila Paris made it popular, but our God is the reason we sing it. Perhaps the closing statement from the first and fourth verses needs more examination and great proclamation; “…the Lord of lords, Who is the great I AM.” John 8:58 “Jesus said to them, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was born, I Am.”

“In My Life, Lord, Be Glorified” – 309

Before we bow in prayer, we’ll sing this hymn as we sing to Him! The first verse is very personal, “In my life, Lord, be glorified…” but in the second verse we’ll change it to the plural form, “In our songs, Lord, be glorified…” And finally we’ll close the song to include the Lord’s church; “In Your church, Lord, be glorified…”

“Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus” – 648

Brother Kent Allen has requested this song to serve as our ‘song before the lesson.’ What a great way to admonish each other to live a life that puts Christ first. Have you thought about this song lately? We are singing about the armor of God (Ephesians 6), and in the third verse we’re reminded of the weakness we have in the flesh; “…Stand in HIS strength alone; the arm of flesh will fail you, ye dare not trust your own” But what does the author mean when he writes, “…put on the gospel armor; and watching unto prayer…” Remember, ‘unto’ is a preposition that can mean ‘by’. So with that in mind; we have on the armor of God and we’re waiting (watching) by means of prayer. See Ephesians 6:18, “With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert…”

“In the Hour of Trial” – 767

Not a typical ‘invitation song’, but this will serve us well this morning. Take a close look at verse one; “…Jesus plead for me, lest by base denial I depart from Thee; When Thou seest me waiver, with a look recall…” Remember Luke 22 when Christ is on trial? Peter adamantly denies knowing Jesus (base denial, as an adjective, ‘base’ can mean ‘contemptible’) and then in Luke 22:61, “The Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord…”. With a look recall (help me to remember)…

“Lamb of God” – 176

We’ll remember the Lord’s supper this morning after our lesson as we sing this beautiful song, again written by Twila Paris. A song that we sing to our Father (a hymn). God’s gift of love (the Lamb of God) is crucified for our sins. He is scorned, mocked, defamed…and sacrificed. “Like a lamb that is led to slaughter” (Isaiah 53:7) “I love the holy Lamb of God.”

“O For a Faith That Will Not Shrink” – 540

As we close the service this morning, remember our lesson; “Does Anyone Know (you’re a Christian)? The words of this song were written by W. H. Bathurst in 1831. Oh that we would all have a faith in God that doesn’t shrink away in difficult times. A faith that doesn’t complain or ‘whine’ when troubles come. A faith that shines more bright and clear. With this kind of faith, even while here on earth, we’ll ‘taste the bliss’ of heaven.