Fixing the Pharisees…June 29th

Perhaps you’ve heard the phrase, “If it’s not broken, don’t fix it.” But the reverse could be true; if it is broken, it needs to be fixed. Your car doesn’t start so you find out what’s wrong with it and fix it. Your computer is running slow, so do some checking and then get it fixed. Evaluate what you are having problems with, and then see what needs to be done to fix it.

The Pharisees in Jesus’ day had their idea of how best to ‘worship’ God. But a quick study of the text shows they were missing the mark. Their practices were selfish and based on political partiality. In short, the religious leaders during Christ’s time were broken and needed to be fixed. But how about you and your worship to God? Are you ‘doing it right?’ Join us on Sunday morning as we consider, ‘fixing the Pharisees.’

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

Sunday morning, June 29, 2014

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

“To God Be the Glory” – 2

“Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! Let the earth hear His voice…” What a great song of praise as we open our worship time together.

“God Has Smiled on Me” – 118

A song typically sung slowly to emphasize the blessings we have as God ‘smiles’ us. But this morning we’ll sing this song with a faster tempo to match the level of energy with the previous song. Notice the connection: “…O come to the Father, through Jesus the Son, and give Him the glory great things He hath done.” “God has smiled on me, He has set me free…” Praise the Lord!

“Great is Thy Faithfulness” – 57

Written in the early 1900’s, this hymn of praise echoes our thankfulness to God for His faithfulness. How do we know God is faithful; “…morning by morning new mercies I see…” Verse two gives even more for the Christian to hold on to; “Summer and winter and spring time and harvest, sun, moon and stars in their courses above join with all nature in manifold (multiple) witness to Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.”

“Tis Set the Feast Divine” – no book

“It is set, the feast divine..” We come together on the first day of the week to commemorate our Lord’s death, burial and resurrection. We do that when we partake of the Lord’s Supper, the ‘feast divine.’ But what is being served for this feast? We sing what we read from the scripture, “the bread and the fruit of the vine.”

“Til My Faith Becomes Sight” – 836

A song which I would call a contemporary hymn, written just 23 years ago, provides us with six names for our Lord, Jesus Christ; 1) Bread of Life (John 6:35), 2) Living Water (John 4:10), 3) Lover of my soul (Romans 8:39), 4) Lamb of God (John 1:36), 5) Hope of Glory (Colossians 1:27), 6) Savior crucified (Acts 2:36).

“When This Passing World is Done” – 259

Do you understand all that Jesus has done for you? Can you comprehend the vastness of His compassion on His people? This hymn (prayer) sung to God has been around for more than 150 years, and yet it still holds a true message for us today. When this life is over, when I stand before judgment, when I hear the thunderous praise of heaven…then I’ll know how much I owe for the gift of my salvation. But notice the scripture reference in verse 4; “…for now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face, for I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.” (I Cor. 13:12). So we sing, “E’en on earth as through a glass, darkly let Thy glory pass.” Don’t wait until you stand before the throne of God, consider all that God has done for you, even while you are here on earth…

“More About Jesus” – 678

Before our lesson we sing this spiritual song about desiring to know ‘more about Jesus.’ If we think we have it ‘all figured out,’ and if we think we’re NOT broken, we run the risk of being Pharisaical…never thinking we need to be fixed.

“Purer in Heart, O God” – 671

Oh to be like Christ (that’s what Christian means), “…we are children of God, and it has not appeared as yet what we will be. We know that when He appears, we will be like Him, because we will see Him just as He is. And everyone who has this hope fixed on Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.” We sing this song as our invitation song, calling for us to have pure hearts. How can that be? We sing, “May I devote my life wholly to Thee…”

“Light the Fire” – no book

A contemporary song that calls us to be ‘on fire’ for God. We are all broken and need to be fixed, and one way we can do that is to stand and praise our God. Understanding my position, I should fall to my knees in humility. And so we sing, “…Lord, You know where I’ve been (I’m broken), so light the fire in my heart again (fix me).” Jesus tried to ‘fix’ the Pharisees in their stubborn, broken state, but they resisted. So what about you, will you let Him fix you?

1, June 19, 20141, June 19, 2014

The Adopted…June 22nd

During the early 70’s, my mom and dad served the West Texas region as ‘foster parents’ for children who were waiting adoption. In some situations we received new born babies so early, we were given the responsibility of giving them their name. A huge obligation, but though we ‘fostered’ these young children for months, we never took the step to adopt them.

Perhaps it was because my folks were already feeding 4 boys, and they weren’t sure about feeding five? But the adoption process is more than just signing some papers and putting food on the table. The responsibilities and obligations of adopting a child includes offering security, ensuring stability and providing an inheritance in the family’s estate. As a ‘child of God,’ we go through an adoption process to be in God’s family. Christians understand there is security and stability in Christ, but more importantly the adoption process ensures that we are heirs in our Father’s kingdom. Ask yourself, have I been adopted? Join us Sunday morning as we consider adoption and…”The Adopted.”

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

Sunday morning, June 22, 2014

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

“Praise Him! Praise Him!” – 300

What a beautiful call to worship as we join our voices in praise to our Father; “Praise Him! Praise Him! Jesus our blessed Redeemer…” If the truth be known we’re actually sing as edification to one another at the same time we’re singing praise to our God. Are you praising Him today? On Sunday morning will you lift your voice and ‘tell of His excellent greatness?’

“May I Call You Father” – 769

This song fits perfectly with the message of today’s lesson; as adopted children into the family of God we come before Him seeking to call Him our Father. But notice the words we sing; “…I’ve hurt You, Jesus, I’ve hurt You with my sin.” So the question is sincere, with the pain I have caused I humbly ask, can I call God my Father? Within the adoption process the answer is clear…YES!

“Come Share the Lord” – 364

Another great support to this lesson as we sing to remember the Lord’s death, burial and resurrection. “We are now a family of which the Lord is head. Though unseen He meets us here in the breaking of the bread.” Though the blood of Jesus, and because of God’s redeeming grace, we are a family. Come share the Lord and recognize the Father of our heavenly family.

“The Love of God” – 133

Written almost 100 years ago, this spiritual song shares a great message of God’s love. Singing we try to put into perspective the vastness of His love. “Could we with ink the ocean fill, and were the skies of parchment made; Were every stalk on earth a quill and every man a scribe by trade; To write the love of God above would drain the ocean dry, nor could the scroll contain the whole though stretched from sky to sky…” Now consider the words of John; “And there are also many other things which Jesus did, which if they were written in detail, I suppose that even the world itself would not contain the books that would be written.” John 21:25

“Redeemed” – 514

How many of us love to proclaim our salvation? Do we show just how happy we are in Jesus? Some would rather not repeat a phrase over and over again while singing, but perhaps this time it’s justified. “Redeemed, redeemed, redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. Redeemed, redeemed, redeemed, redeemed…His child (through adoption) and forever I am!” Don’t be afraid to proclaim your membership in the family of God.

“Jesus Paid It All” – 922

How much would an adopted child owe for his membership into someone’s family? On the contrary, the adopting parents must ‘pay the price’ for their child. The child isn’t free and yet that little one isn’t charged membership into the family. The same is true in God’s Family; Jesus paid the cost for our adoption process. Who do you owe to be able to ‘stand before the throne of God?’ Jesus paid it ALL…all to Him I owe!

“God’s Family” – 744

In a family there are times when we laugh together, and there are times when we cry together (either out of frustration or sadness). The same is said for the family of God! We sing this song realizing we are adopted into God’s family when we are baptized into His death. Accept His salvation (the adoption) and be part of the family…‘that’s been born again.’

1, June 17, 20141, June 18, 2014

Vacation Bible School…Pt. 1

For many of us, summer time brings memories of Vacation Bible School. Whether you rode the Joy Bus, brought cookies or taught a class (or participated in any of the above), VBS was a highlight of the summer months.

So for the next few weeks I’d like to reminisce about the songs we used to sing during Vacation Bible School. Songs like “His Banner Over Us Is Love” or “If You’re Happy and You Know It.” Perhaps my favorite was the closing song we sang before dismissing for the afternoon (back when VBS was Monday-Friday, 9:00 to noon); I remember singing, or should I say shouting,“Booster, booster be a booster! Don’t be grouchy like a rooster. Booster, booster be a booster and boost our Bible School!”

This article will be the first in a series of three where we’ll look at some favorite songs from yesteryear and the Vacation Bible Schools we used to participate in. Today consider these two classics:

“I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart. (Where?)
Down in my heart…(where?) Down in my heart.
I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart. (Where?)
Down in my heart to stay.

CHORUS: And I’m so happy, so very happy, I’ve got the love of Jesus in my heart, down in my heart.
And I’m so happy, so very happy, I’ve got the love of Jesus in my heart.

I’ve got the peace that passes understanding down in my heart. (Where?)
Down in my heart…(where?) Down in my heart.
I’ve got the peace that passes understanding down in my heart. (Where?)
Down in my heart to stay.

CHORUS:

And if the devil doesn’t like it he can sit on a tack. (Ouch!)
Sit on a tack…(ouch!) Sit on a tack.
And if the devil doesn’t like it he can sit on a tack. (Ouch!)
Sit on a tack to stay.

CHORUS:

I’ve got the wonderful love of the blessed Redeemer way down in the depths of my heart. (Where?)
Down in the depths of my heart…(where?) Down in the depths of my heart.
I’ve got the wonderful love of the blessed Redeemer way down in the depths of my heart. (Where?)
Down in the depths of my heart to stay.”

CHORUS:

And how about this one…?

(boys sing) “I want to be like Daniel.
(girls sing) I want to be like Ruth.

(boys sing) I want to be like Daniel.
(girls sing) I want to be like Ruth.

(girls) For Ruth was always good and kind,
(boys) and Daniel was a mighty man.

(boys sing) I want to be like Daniel.
(girls sing) I want to be like Ruth.”

To engage the kids even more in the singing of this song, we have the boys stand while singing their part and the girls stand while singing their part. The catch, you sit when you’re not singing. It’s an exciting way to get everyone involved, especially when you increase the tempo each time you repeat the song. Of course the older we got, the better we were!

Next time in “Vacation Bible School…Part 2,” we’ll look at “The Wise Man”, “The Gospel Chariot” and “The Lord’s Army.” When you consider your vacation plans this summer, look for a good Bible School and get ready to sing!

1, June 11, 20141, June 12, 2014

Play Ball!

Summer nights at the baseball game almost always start off with the umpire shouting, “Play Ball!” But just minutes before he utters that infamous phrase you’ll likely hear the words to our National Anthem sung by an individual, quartet or small chorus.

“Oh, say can you see, by the dawn’s early light what so proudly we hailed at the twilight’s last gleaming? Whose broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight, o’er the ramparts we watched were so gallantly streaming. And the rocket’s red glare, the bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night that our flag was still there! Oh, say does that Star Spangled Banner yet wave, o’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?”

What a great tradition we have established in this country. For more back ground on our National Anthem, you might consider re-reading the article from this site posted on July 4th; “Looking Into the Dawn.”

It was a beautiful Tuesday night in June, when 18 people harmonized their voices to serve the Frisco Rough Rider’s baseball team in singing the National Anthem. A special thanks to the men and women (and the two young ladies who signed) as they practiced, prepared and performed this great song for our country…The National Anthem!

1, June 6, 20141, June 11, 2014

Why Have Graduations?…June 8th

Many students will ‘walk the stage’ sometime in the next few days and weeks. Whether they are moving from preschool to elementary, high school to college, or college to ‘the real world,’ we see graduations all around.

We understand the importance of milestones in life, and the excitement we feel upon reaching them. Even the ‘celebration’ of graduating from one stage in life to another can be monumental. But do we ‘have’ to have a graduation? Could there be more than just recognizing the individual accomplishment? And who is to say one is more important than another? Actually, how many ‘graduations’ do we have? Join us Sunday morning as we ask the question; “Why Have Graduations?”

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

Sunday morning, June 8, 2014

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

“Blessed Be the Lord God Almighty” – 72

We sing this ‘hymn’ as we sing to our God; “Father in heaven, how we love you. We lift Your name in all the earth. May your kingdom be established in our praises as Your people declare Your mighty works. Blessed be the Lord, God almighty! Who was, and is, and is to come.” Reading Revelation 4:8, we hear the praise being offered around the throne of God; ‘Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God Almighty,’ who was, and is, and is to come.”

“The Lord’s My Shepherd” – 134

One of the greatest ‘psalms’ that we can sing (almost verbatim) is found in the 23rd Psalm. You’ll notice the first verse of this hymn recites the 1st & 2nd verses of the Psalm David penned centuries ago. Open your Old Testament to the book of Psalms, turn to chapter 23 and then sing a ‘psalm’ of praise. “The Lord’s my Shepherd I’ll not want…”

“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 verses referencing Christ’s 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; “How marvelous! How wonderful…is my Savior’s love for me!”

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

A basic tune and a simple message…but how much do you WANT to know Him? The progression in the first verse tells us there is an order to coming to know Him. We have to let Him first; “Touch us…” then “hold us…” followed by ‘using us…” and finally “molding us…” into the vessel He wants us to be. Could that be part of the ‘graduation’ process?

“When I’ve Gone the Last Mile of the Way” – no book

Completing the task is reward in and of itself. But how much more is the reward when the task has been a difficult one? Perhaps the runner of a marathon understands that better than most. The last mile of the race can be the most straining, and yet the most rewarding at the same time. Perhaps it’s a bit like graduation…‘for I know there are joys that await me!’

“I’ll Live for Him” – 553

After the Lord’s Supper we’ll softly sing the refrain of this old hymn; “I’ll live for Him who died for me: How happy then my life shall be!…” Perhaps it’s because of the musical tempo of this song, but many seem to miss the message; if I’m living for Christ each milestone (graduation) in my life should be happy, but is it?

“Living By Faith” – 560

“I care not today what the morrow (tomorrow) may bring, if shadow or sunshine or rain. (why?) The Lord I know rules over everything and all of my worry is vain. (therefore…) I’m living by faith and feel no alarm.” Do you have a heart of patience and contentment that you can say, I don’t care what happens good or bad in my life? We’ll contemplate this as we prepare for the lesson this morning. What a great song of encouragement as we proclaim that we are living by faith!

“Each Step I Take” – 415

Our invitation song is not a typical song sung calling for a response. But as we sing we confirm that we want Christ to lead us. And that we will walk with Him and turn to our Savior throughout this life. “Until some day the last step will be taken (graduation?); each step I take just leads me closer home.”

“Hold to God’s Unchanging Hand” – 613

A song of encouragement that is meant to be sung as reassurance. Even though our lives are ‘filled with swift transition…’ (lots of changes) and even, ‘if by earthly friends we’re forsaken,’ we find comfort in the consistency of God’s strong hands. Serving as a theme throughout the song, we encourage each other to Hold to God’s Unchanging Hand. It seems that we ‘graduate’ from one event to another almost daily, but never lose hold of the Master’s hands.

1, April 27, 20141, April 27, 2014

The Life of Moses…LTC Style

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.

1, April 24, 20141, April 24, 2014

Who’s In Control?…April 27th

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.

1, April 17, 20141, April 18, 2014

The 10th Resurrection…April 20th

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.

1, April 11, 20141, April 11, 2014

The Second Leg…April 13th

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.

1, April 4, 20141, April 5, 2014

From the Beginning to the End…April 6th

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.’