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God Bless You, Go With God

“Better than I deserve…”, grew to be the expected response after a greeting to and from Dr. Stan Mitchell. It didn’t matter where you were or what you were doing, you were always greeted with an ear-to-ear smile from, in my opinion, the schools’ most ‘social butterfly’. He seemed to be just about everywhere you looked. Sometimes sitting with a group of students just talking and laughing in the library or student center, getting some coffee, walking to class with students, getting more coffee, in his office talking with his students, or walking alone to class…with a cup of coffee in hand. He was never without a compliment to give or a wise word to impart.

Upon hearing of his sudden hospitalization earlier this past weekend and of his passing early this morning, I could not help but think back on many of my “Stan” interactions. There were many times I would pass him in the student center while checking my mail or grabbing a quick lunch, and he’d be on his way through to a class or to check his faculty mail, and without fail, I was ALWAYS greeted with a, “Miss Emili!” and a HUGE smile. I remember specifically one time going to his office (unfortunately, one of the things I didn’t do as often as I wished I had) a short time before my, now, husband and I began dating. Stan had told me a few weeks before I went to see him, that I was welcome to his office, and his chocolate, anytime I liked. I confided in him about being lonely and how I just wasn’t feeling like I was good enough (in the regard of having never been dated or even asked out) and that I didn’t know what was wrong. I do not think I have ever been cut off so quickly and I don’t ever recall him being as stern, and as serious, with me as he was. I’ll never forget what he told me, “Miss Emili, you are wise beyond your years. There is nothing about you that is wrong or messed up (he did air quotes around “messed up”). You’re just further on than any man that’s had the pleasure of meeting you so far. Give him time, he’ll catch up to you.” He said a prayer with me after that and sent me off with a piece of his Ghirardelli chocolate. A few weeks after Thanksgiving he found out that I was dating and, in his words, said, “He must be a nice young fellow,” and told me he was happy that I had found a man who could “keep up with me.”!

Dr. Mitchell has played such an incredible role in the lives of all the students, past and present, and I honestly could not imagine my FHU experience without him in it. Several of my classes at FHU I had taken with Brother Mitchell. I was visiting with a friend of mine this morning, and we got to reminiscing about taking one of his classes that we took together our freshman or sophomore year. He always started out his classes with a song and he always remarked on the rather strong alto voices he could pick out (meaning my friend and me). Without fail, we could always count on him picking a song with a strong alto lead or supporting part.

He provided us with a TON of wonderful memories, as well as advice. I believe I can speak for most Freed-Hardeman students/alumni when I say that in some way shape or form, Dr. Stan Mitchell had an impact on us. If you never had the opportunity to meet Dr. Mitchell, I am so sorry for what you missed out on. He was a ‘modern day’ Barnabas. The kind of encourager that, as Christians, we aspire to be; but not just that, he was a spiritual GIANT with a heart so big there’s no possible way to measure it.

One of the last things he would say in his classes was, “God bless you, go with God,” and I don’t believe his departure from this world could be more fitly summed up.

Stan, I believe with all my heart that today you rest in paradise. I believe that all the people you had met and all those students who you blessed with your smile will carry on with the sweet, simple thought of being blessed more than they deserve just for simply having known you. I will thank the Lord every day for allowing me to be able to sit at your feet and learn from your wisdom and experience. You will be missed but not forgotten. For your family and those who are left to carry on in your absence, this is my daily prayer…God bless you, go with God.

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Safe!

As a cloud of dust lingers over home plate, and with every eye on the umpire, there’s nothing more reassuring for the offensive player (disappointing for the defense) then to hear the word, “SAFE!” It was a ’round trip’ that ended with a successful completion summed up in that one syllable word. The confirmation that the greatest hope has been achieved and that the traveler had made it home…safe!

Even a child crying in the night is seeking comfort and a warm embrace to let him know he’s safe. We’ll even put our money in a safety deposit box to do what? To keep our treasures ‘safe.’ And if we’re honest with each other, even as adults, we would rather be safe (saved, rescued) than to be lost, insecure…not safe. Any one who has faced times of distress and fear know that there’s nothing more comforting that knowing, “I’m safe.”

The Christian realizes that there is nothing sweeter than to be ‘safe at home.’ And yes, it’s the “Umpire’s call!” Though the devil will do his best to put us out, I hope this song can be a source of encouragement to you. There is reassurance and hope for the end of this life when we’re “safe in the arms of Jesus.”

Thanks Fanny J. Crosby for this reminder from Mark 10:16! “And He took them in His arms and began blessing them…”

1. Safe in the arms of Jesus, safe on His gentle breast;
There by His love o’ershaded, sweetly my soul shall rest.
Hark! ’tis the voice of angels borne in a song to me,
Over the fields of glory, over the jasper sea.
Refrain:
Safe in the arms of Jesus, Safe on His gentle breast;
There by His love o’ershaded, Sweetly my soul shall rest.
2. Safe in the arms of Jesus, safe from corroding care,
Safe from the world’s temptations; sin cannot harm me there.
Free from the blight of sorrow, free from my doubts and fears;
Only a few more trials, only a few more tears!
3. Jesus, my heart’s dear Refuge, Jesus has died for me;
Firm on the Rock of Ages ever my trust shall be.
Here let me wait with patience, wait till the night is o’er;
Wait till I see the morning break on the golden shore.

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Why Not…Admonish One Another? Pt. 2

As we continue in this three part series, let’s work our way through the verses of this old invitation song. Remember, if we are to build one another up to good deeds, we need to consider how effective will we be at admonishing…

Many will remember this song of invitation and the plea that follows, ‘as we stand and as we sing.’ But what admonition (warning or encouragement) do we receive from this spiritual song written in the late 1800’s? “While we pray, and while we plead, while you see your soul’s deep need. While your Father calls you home, will you not, my brother come?” Do we prayer for the lost? Do we personally plead for them (urge them) to examine their life and turn to Christ? Unfortunately, too many think they are, ‘doing just fine, thank you very much.’ There is no ‘deep need’ because the world tells me that if I just love Jesus, I’m OK. Do not settle for “I’m OK! You’re OK!” Paul was very clear as he penned Romans chapter 3 expressing that, “…apart from the Law the righteousness of God has been manifested, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe; for there is no distinction; for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” He further admonished (warned) the church in Thessalonica, “If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of that person and do not associate with him so that he will be put to shame. YET, do not regard him as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.” (II Thess. 3:14, 15) In this latter passage the message is clear; don’t be pulled away into a false teaching. At the same time, we must be careful that we don’t hate the one who has. Rather, warn him, urge him and admonish him as a brother. This spiritual song is a call for the wandering one to come to Christ.

As we continue with verse two we aren’t singing, ‘IF you have wandered far away…’, rather, this is a declarative statement, “YOU HAVE wandered far away, do not risk another day.” No stronger urge can be made than to declare the obvious. The absolute truth is clear, either you are or you are not following God! And we know who has wandered far away because Christ provides the insight. “Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. Grapes are not gathered from thorn bushes nor figs from thistles, are they? So every good tree bears good fruit, but the bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot produce bad fruit, nor can a bad tree produce good fruit.” (Matthew 7:15-18) Many will turn their face away from God and run the risk of eternal condemnation. Why not accept His grace? The answer to this (for some) is simply a stubborn pride. Regardless of the age, many across our globe have bought into the belief that…“I’m OK.”

Next month we’ll conclude this series and bring to close the message behind this song of admonishment and encouragement. Not that we will ever get to the end of our responsibility to seek and save the lost, but Lord willing, that we will be better suited to encourage…

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So Glad…This World is NOT My Home!

Let me just say that buying and selling a house is a headache! What one headacheperson (the seller) values, another person (the buyer) seems not to…at least not yet. Either way, both want to ‘make a deal.’ Thus, the headache! Maybe it’s because of the inspector? He takes a snap shot in time (no pun intended) at the house searching every nook and cranny to see if there is any fault. And if he’s worth his salt, he’ll find a fault. Seriously, who doesn’t want to know what needs to be fixed? Truth be known, he is actually doing us both a favor. When we look at the brick and mortar from an inspector’s lens, it reveals things that the seller didn’t think was all that bad. Still, as the seller…this is my home and it’s always been good for me! Now someone comes along who wants to take this home as theirs and all those OK things are now not so “OK.”

373This home has been our investment. But not so much in the roof and walls, as in the memories found within each room. Because, to be honest, this is our “home.” We celebrated here together and we’ve wept here together, all within these walls. Memories don’t come cheap and we should never undervalue the time we spend with our family, from the earliest of years to the ’empty nest.’ And now these walls will see a new family making new memories and celebrating together. But our home HERE is not a forever home. The memories we made will not stay within these walls. Our hearts hold and cherish ‘the home.’ There will be a day when the walls of this old house crumble with age. But our memories will be passed on from generation to generation…as the Lord allows.

So let me be reminded that…”this world is not my home, I’m just passing through.” My treasures? They are not found in the price of a home, my treasures have been laid up in heaven, ‘beyond the blue.’ And the beckoning call I’m getting isn’t coming from a real estate agent. And so I ask the question, is all this really worth a headache? When we are ready to ‘move on,’ how can we ‘feel at home’ here anymore?

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A Time of Transitions

In the summer of 2002 more than 30 high school freshman and sophomores along with several adult sponsors from Texas came to Colorado to conduct a Vacation Bible School. Though we didn’t know it at the time, that was the beginning of a relationship that would last for the rest of our lives. When the group came back the following year, the summer of 2003, they helped our family pack and move from the Windsor church of Christ to work and worship with the Waterview church of Christ in Richardson, Texas. Thirteen years later we find ourselves, again, at a point of transition. Words fail me to express how much the brothers and sisters at Waterview have meant to my family and me. telephone

Few know that in the late spring of 2002, Jim Stigers called my father-in-law, Jim Knight for the sole purpose of finding a small congregation where the Waterview youth group might go to conduct a VBS. Their original plans had been to go to Nebraska, but due to some complications, the youth was without a mission point for the summer of 2002. My father-in-law, one of the leaders at the small, Colorado congregation, was glad to visit with his old high school friend and welcome the group to Colorado. Jim Stigers, one of the Waterview elders, read the following announcement, and perhaps there was no one was better suited to do so.

The following was announced on Sunday, July 24th:

“The future of Waterview church of Christ is bright! Jason Moon has just completed his first full year as the pulpit minister. Robert Oglesby, Robert Taylor, Warren Shepherd and Dustin Jones have forged a team that not only has welcomed Jason, but now Greg Parks into the ministerial service at Waterview. They work with the elders and deacons to set goals and objectives that reach heavenward…literally. Only the Lord knows how many families will continue to be blessed by Waterview church of Christ as they serve, grow and mature in Christ.

For the past 13 years, the Bruce family has been a part of the fabric of love and devotion, courage and faithfulness established by decades of faithful elders and solid preaching found here. In January 2015, Myron stepped away from full-time ministry but continued, on a part-time basis, striving to lead our hearts and minds toward a clearer, more focused worship to God. That has been and always will be his mission. But this morning, we need to inform you that the Bruce’s have announced that they will be moving from Plano and the Waterview church of Christ to live in Wichita Falls. He will continue to lead our Sunday morning song service until August 14th, but then will be making the transition to Faith Village in Wichita Falls where they will continue to work and worship.

16“In the spring of 2003, Vicki and I, with our three children (Logan…9, Emili…8 and Dillon…5) began a journey from the comfort of Colorado and the Windsor church of Christ, to the Dallas metro-plex joining Waterview as the Congregational Life Minister. We didn’t really know anyone, but over the years, have grown to love everyone. Now thirteen years later, we can’t begin to “Count Our Many Blessings.” The joy of raising our family to serve and worship God with this body of believers makes this day very difficult. To us, you are more than just a member at Waterview. You are, and forever will be, our brothers and sisters in Christ!  

These next few weeks we will be packing up boxes and take pictures off the walls. But more importantly, we’ll be storing up the memories and reflecting on the years God has given us with you. Raising our children in the shadow of this congregation is something we will never forget! With a common love, we have grown close to each of you!

The old hymn writer said it best, “When we asunder part, it gives us inward pain; but we shall still be joined in heart, and hope to meet again.” However, God’s word expresses our deepest emotions. In Numbers chapter 6, God spoke to Moses telling him to instruct his brother, Aaron, with the following: “Thus, you shall bless the sons of Israel. You shall say to them: ‘The Lord bless you, and keep you; The Lord make His face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you. The Lord lift up His countenance on you, and give you peace!’.”

We love you and thank you for blessing our life!”

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When the Vacation’s Over

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

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

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

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

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

Chorus:

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

Chorus:

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

Chorus:

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

Chorus:

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

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

 

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Before & After the Wedding Cake…Sept. 21st

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

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

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

Sunday morning, Sept. 21, 2014

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

“Give Me the Bible” – 450

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

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

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

“How Beautiful” – 365

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

“A Common Love” – 705

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

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

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

“God Give Us Christian Homes” – 843

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

“I Have Decided to Follow Jesus” – 674

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

“God of Our Fathers” – 1025

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

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A Letter to My Father…June 15th

What do you remember about your father? Is he still with you, or has he passed Royces Family 3away? There are some who will say, ‘I never knew him.’ Others will remember how he taught them to ride a bike or throw a ball. Still others will remember how he disciplined with hands of steel, but encouraged with hands of love. Perhaps you can remember your father teaching you to fold your hands in prayer.

All too often we reflect on our lives and realize how quickly life is passing us by. Whether we agree with the way our fathers raised us or not, many of us have memories about him. But if you were to pen him a letter, what would you say? Do you know what you’d thank him for or would you be at a loss for words? Sunday, June 15th will be Father’s Day. Enjoy time with your father, if he’s still with you, or give him a call. Better yet, pen him a letter and share some of your memories with him.

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

Sunday morning, June 15, 2014

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

“Hallelujah! Praise Jehovah” – 3

Taken from the 148th Psalm we see a list of those who are called upon to praise Jehovah. Angels, sun and moon, sea creatures, fire and hail, beast and cattle, kings, maidens, young men, aged men, children; all created things are to praise the Creator! The reason why is found in the 13th verse, “…for His name alone is exalted.” Do you praise God or, in your life, do you have other things that are exalted?

“Worthy Is the Lamb” – no book

Sung to the tune of Just As I Am we find the thoughts of this song coming from the book of Revelation. Chapter 5 verse Revelation 59 reads, “Worthy are You to take 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.” Then we 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.”

“Remind Me, Dear Lord” – 315

We sing this song following the Lord’s Supper and during the contribution. Notice the 2nd verse, “Nothing good have I done to deserve God’s own Son; I’m not worthy of the scars in His hands yet He chose the road to Calvary to die in my stead; why He loved me, I can’t understand…” Sometimes we need to be reminded, even to write a letter.

“Amazing Grace” – 129 & “Holy Ground” – 101

A medley before our lesson that blends the traditional with the contemporary. We choose it for the words of the first verse in Amazing Grace and how appropriately they match with our scripture reading. Reading about the prodigal son’s return in Luke 15 the scripture says, “…for this son of mine was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.” The son returns to his father who has been waiting with open arms. Amazing grace…

“Softly and Tenderly” – 934

An invitation song that we’ve song for years (more than 130 to be exact) calls the wandering sinner to turn back to God. Visions of the stubborn child who has run away from home are seen as we plea for those who are weary to ‘come home.’ A Father with tender compassion is waiting to welcome you back; will you come home?

“The Christian’s Welcome Home” – no book

“How sweet will be the welcome home…” An older spiritual song that encourages the singer to look toward heaven. But don’t forget the admonishment in the 3rd verse; “If we are faithful we shall gain, the land of promised rest…” We have a Father who is waiting for us to come home.

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Preacher Training School…May 11th

Training comes in different forms to accomplish different results. But regardless of the method, there will never be success without proper training. A teacher goes through years of education (training) to become a training...teachingprofessional educator. A skilled carpenter must be trained by a competent mentor. And in like manner, an effective preacher needs years of practice, study and training from a God-centered heart.

We search out the best coaches for our young athletes. We find the strongest examples to prepare us for the job. And schools hire some of the most revered ministers to train our preachers. But where are these schools? Sunday morning’s sermon might surprise you as we consider, Preacher Training Schools.

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

Sunday morning, May 11, 2014

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

“He Has Made Me Glad” – 103

The psalmist penned, “Enter His gates with thanksgiving, and His courts with praise…”, and this morning we’ll sing these words. “I will enter His courts with thanksgiving in my heart, I will enter His courts with praise…” Begin your morning singing this psalm together with the saints as we proclaim, ‘I will rejoice for He has made me glad!’

Jesus and child

“Anywhere with Jesus” – 414

Are you concerned about the affairs of the day? Difficulty presses in on every side and the world seems more determined to abandon God’s word. But what about you? Will you stay the course? Are you confident in knowing ‘where you go?’ The Christian can say with confidence, ‘anywhere with Jesus I can safely go, and with confidence…I am not alone.” An important thought to remember and pass on to our children. Don’t leave home without Him.

 

“Tis Midnight and on Olive’s Brow” – 334

An old spiritual song and, in part, a solid psalm as we read some of the elements surrounding Christ’s final hours in the garden of Gethsemane. Yes there is poetry, but notice the scripture: ‘…the suffering Savior prays alone.’ Matthew 26:44, “e’en (even) that disciple whom He loves (John) heeds not his Master’s grief and tears.’ Mark 14:32-35 and ‘The Man of Sorrows weeps in blood…” Luke 22:44 & Hebrews 5:7 and finally, ‘…unheard by mortals are the strains (the words) that sweetly soothe the Savior’s woe.’ Luke 22:43. Don’t just sing it because you know it, read Biblical detail, remember His death, and tell someone of His love.

“More Precious than Silver” – 273

Solomon writes about wisdom in Proverbs chapter 3, verse 15 “She is more precious than jewels and nothing you desire compares with her.” Maybe this passage is the basis for this song. Also, consider that the psalmist wrote, “How blessed is the man who finds wisdom.” We could conclude that knowing Christ, finding wisdom, is more precious than silver, more costly than gold and more beautiful than diamonds. What do you desire?

“Lord, We Come Before Thee Now” – 797

Open our eyes that we may see and open our ears that we may hear…a message many of us would be better off practicing. But what am I looking for? What should I be listening to? The simple, short answer: Jesus!

“Bring Them In” – 880, “Jesus Loves the Little Children” – 1015 & “I’m Not Ashamed to Own My Lord” – 609

This medley before our lesson features three songs that build upon each other. “Hark! ‘Tis (it is) the Shepherd’s voice I hear…bring the little ones to Jesus.” Why the urgency? Because…“Jesus loves the little children…” And then we’ll conclude this medley with another familiar spiritual song, “I’m not ashamed to own my Lord…” Preacher Training School’s have a unique responsibility; to train preachers to know how to…’defend His cause’ and ‘maintain the honors of His Word.’

“Swiftly We’re Turning” – no bookhours to years

Some might not see this as an effective invitation song, but after you hear the lesson you might think otherwise. We have the gospel to share with precious souls that are dying. And the hours are changing to years. How will we use the moments God gives us? Will we pass on the message of salvation, the gospel of Jesus Christ, or keep it to ourselves. “How are we using God’s golden moments?” If we ‘point the way to heaven’ we shall reap glory. If we don’t, if we fail to train our children…we shall reap tears.

“God Give Us Christian Homes” – 843

Our closing song this morning provides a clear view of who is working in the Preacher Training Schools. Our homes are the institution to train up preachers; and fathers and mothers have the responsibility to ‘bring them in.’ Homes (schools) where the Bible is taught. Homes (schools) where the fathers are true and strong. Homes (schools) where mothers honor God and teach the same to their children. And homes (schools) where the children know about the love of Christ. Who will take the responsibility to ‘train our preachers?’

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Praying for…

praying childIn your prayer life, what do you most ask of God? For good health, for comfort and success, for world peace? Jesus said in Mark chapter 11, verse 24, “…all things for which you pray and ask, believe that you have received them…” So in our prayers we ask as we have been directed, “Ask, and it will be given to you…” (Matthew 7:7) and we offer thanks (I Thessalonians 5:18). But again, when you pray…what do you most ask for?

Baylus McKinney, a musician and song writer in the early 1900’s, penned the words to dozens of Christian hymns. But one particular song is a prayer seeking God’s blessing on the home. Though it encompasses only one request, “God give us Christian homes,” there are four different elements noted as we sing. What does it take to have a Christian home? What elements did McKinney see fit to ask of God as we seek this blessing?

First of all, we seek homes where the Bible is not only loved by the family, but taught to the children. Homes where christian homesGod’s will is a priority and sought after on a daily basis. Another element of a ‘Christian home’ is one with a father who is truthful and strong. Strengthened to know the difference between right and wrong and leading his family heavenward. A father who teaches his family love, joy, and the importance of praising God in song. A third element of a Christian home comes by way of the mother who conducts herself with dignity, in ‘queenly quest.’ She lives so as to show all those who pass through her door that life is best lived following God’s word. A mother who brings glory and honor to the King of Kings. And finally, as we ask for a Christian home we must remember to pass on the legacy to the children. Children who know that Christ loves them and died for them. A Christian home where the children understand what it means to sacrifice. Not offering a lamb on a stone altar, but laying down our lives for the glory of our God.

For a Christian home, we need 1) God’s word, 2) a Godly father and 3) mother who will teach 4) their children God’s ways. We offer prayers daily; thanking our Father in heaven for His blessings and asking for His guidance. Today, when you bow your head in prayer, what will you ask for? Would that we individually and collectively pray for the fathers, mothers and children, that we strive to raise up Christian homes.