With a meteorite heading to earth and no one to help, you might here the phrase, “This is a job for Superman!” Then ‘faster than a speeding bullet’, and out from behind the clouds comes the DC comic hero to save the day. But even without an asteroid heading our way, we still have troubles to deal with and issues we must face. Who comes to the rescue then? Here ‘in the real world’ we have things that need to get done. We say, this is a job for ____________. When the job (big or small) needs to be done and the only ‘super man’ around isn’t able to ‘leap tall buildings’…what do you do?
Some might say, ‘Anybody can do that, it’s not too hard,’ but when it comes time to do the job we are often looking around for Superman. Some have been heard to say, “I would but…” The fact of the matter remains, there is work to be done and a worker needs to do it. It’s almost as if folks are afraid they’ll be asked to save the planet. In reality, we just need workers. Letting the Bible speak (I Cor. 6;9), we can hear God calling us to work “…for we are God’s fellow workers…”. Also Matthew and Mark both refer to labors in the kingdom (vineyard). We have work to do, no doubt. The question remains, who will do the work?
Keith Lancaster’s, Acappella made famous a song that epitomizes many in today’s society. When a task is to be done you might hear someone say, ‘Anybody could do that…somebody should do that…will anybody do it?’ Unfortunately the response is usually, ‘I would but I’m too busy.’
‘Everybody Said (But Nobody Did)’
CHORUS: Everybody said that anybody could doThe important things somebody should doEverybody knows that anybody could doAll the good things that nobody did
1) Well the preacher came to me and said what I ought to doIf I wanted to make my religion trueHe’d do it himself but he really didn’t have the timeHe said that the duty was mine
CHORUS:
2) Well the deacon came by and said give me a handIf you want to be going to the promised landHere is something that I don’t have time to doSo I better give it to you CHORUS:
Well I’m too busy so I tell everybodyThe work’s got to get done by somebodyIt could be done by anybodyBut nobody, nobody, nobody did
Earth hangs in the balance, between life and death. There’s no rocket of destruction or asteroid headed our way, but we do hang in the balance between good and evil. Imagine if Clark Kent had observed the threat and said, “That looks like trouble, maybe somebody should do something.” You might not be a ‘super man’, but you are somebody who can make a difference. Besides, it just might be that the next task is a job for you.
Culture can be defined as; ‘the predominating attitudes and behavior that characterize the functioning of a group or organization.’ We consider the actions of a people and determine their culture. What do the people believe? What is the most important part of the people’s life? Perhaps we need to look no further than what that ‘culture’ values.
Concerning His disciples Christ prayed in John 17, ‘…they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.’ We do live in this world (this culture), but we are called to be separated from it. In this same text Jesus also prayed, ‘I do not ask You to take them out of the world, but to keep them from the evil one.’ If our culture should embrace (have an attitude or behavior) that opposes God’s will, where will we stand? With culture, or counter to it? Just remember, oil and water won’t mix…and neither should Christians and the world. Does that mean we ought not to ‘hang around’ non-Christians? Not exactly, but we had best consider how we are seen by the world. Will we fall in-line with the current culture, or will our Christianity be counter cultural?
“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15
Sunday morning, November 3, 2013
The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“Awesome God” -38
We toss around the word ‘awesome’ when we want to describe something we really like. That movie was awesome. The meal was awesome. What an awesome time we had together. But let me encourage you to re-think the way we use this adjective. It means to be inspired and moved beyond the norm. Is that what God is for you? Are you in ‘awe’ of Him? Personally, I guess it’s just hard for me to place my Creator in the same category as Hollywood’s latest production. God deserves much more than we give Him credit for…
Our God IS an awesome God!
“Faith is the Victory” – 469
A strong, spiritual songs that recalls the armor of God (Ephesians 6) and the battle we Christians should be preparing for. We sing to admonish the congregation as we anticipate the spiritual battle against forces of darkness. The message is poetically clear in the first verse; as soldiers we are camped next to the hills of light (heaven), but we must be ready to go to war ‘against the foes in vales below.’ Our fight is against the ‘night’ lest it should overcome the glowing skies (which seems to be the current situation in our culture). Just remember, with our faith in God, we have the victory!
“Wounded for Me” – 328
Written in the 1930’s, this spiritual song has the sound of a contemporary piece with the basic message of Christ’s sacrifice for us, “Wounded for me, wounded for me. There on the cross He was wounded for me…” Our song continues as we sing how he was not only wounded, but He died for me. But praise be to God, “He has risen for me; now evermore from death’s sting I am free, all because Jesus has risen for me.”
“‘Tis Midnight, and On Olive’s Brow” – 334
Open your Bibles and you’ll be able to follow the thought process of William B. Tappan as he penned these words in 1822. The poetry takes you to Luke 22:39-44, “He came out and proceeded…to the Mount of Olives…and He withdrew from them about a stone’s thrown…an angel from heaven appeared to Him, strengthening Him…His sweat became like drops of blood…” And singing, “Tis midnight and on Olive’s brow…the Savior prays alone…’ (1) ‘…unheard by mortals are the strains that sweetly soothe the Savior’s woes…’ (4) ‘…the Man of Sorrows weeps in blood…’ (3)
See also Hebrews 5:7, “…He offered up both prayers and supplications with loud crying and tears to the One able to save Him from death…”
“Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus” – 276
The title of this song comes from the chorus which was made famous by Helen Lemmel in 1922 (some may have thought this to be another contemporary, 80’s or 90’s, song). The power of the words encourage us keep our eyes on Jesus. As we conclude the Memorial of our Lord’s death, we continually strive to stay focused on Him. Would that our hearts and minds be so close to our God that, ‘…the things of earth will grow strangely dim…’
“Onward, Christian Soldiers” – 646
A great ‘battle song’, but one with a verse many may have missed. Notice these ‘new’ words; “Like a mighty army moves the church of God; Brothers, we are treading where the saints have trod. We are not divided, all one body we; one in hope and doctrine, one in charity…”. Would that we understand and remember Ephesians 4; “There is one body and one Spirit…one hope…one Lord…one faith…one baptism…one God and Father.”
“I Am Resolved” – 948
January 1st is a good time to find people making ‘resolutions.’ A time when you fix your mind toward accomplishing our goals. A time when we promise ourself personal achievement. A new year, a new start, a new goal. This morning’s invitation is more than just a ‘first of the year’ promise. We sing to confirm a promise that we are going to stop lingering, we are going to go to the Savior, follow the Savior, and ultimately, to enter His kingdom. Do you hurry to get to the Savior (do you hasten to Him) or are you just lingering, taking your time?
“All the Way My Savior Leads Me” – no book
We live in a culture determined to lead us to believe and behavior in a particular way. But as a child of God, our attitude and actions should be determined by Him and His will. Who is leading your life? Are you following in line with the ideals (behavior) of our culture, or are you being lead by the Savior…all the way?
Some sights and sounds can be frightening when you first see or hear them. Perhaps it’s the unknown that gives us a chill, but the cry of a stray cat in the dark of the night, or the wind blowing through the branches of tree on a dark street can be a little spooky this time of year. The dark, majestic home with turn-of-the-century architecture can be a beautiful sight, but why do we feel anxiety when that same house is shrouded in darkness? It must be the unseen and lack of knowing that makes things ‘scary.’ But not all terrifying things come from what we can’t see or hear.
Situations like these, the spooky house and cries in the night, pale in comparison to how fearful we should be when we step head long into sin and reject the Word of God. In the 10th chapter of the book of Hebrews, the Hebrew writer speaks about judgement and says, “It is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” Many will live their life unconcerned about eternity. Though some my think about it, many give no mind to life after death.
Once there were two very affluent men who were challenged with living a righteous life, exercising self-control and accepting the judgement to come. One man ‘even believed…’, but both were reluctant to accept Christ. The first man was afraid and told the messenger to, “Go away…” His counterpart, in turn, replied, “Almost you persuade…” These two Roman leaders (Felix and Agrippa) heard what needed to be done to turn from their lives of sin, but wouldn’t move themselves to action.
How many thousands of people today, hear the word of God, believe the message, and yet fail to do what needs to be done to be right with God? Situations abound where someone knows what to do, but refuses to take the necessary steps. ‘It’s not convenient for me…’, ‘I’m comfortable where I am…’ or ‘Just go away…maybe some other time…’ Every excuse is a step farther away from the living God. Each element within the rejection can mean terrifying results for the one who, ‘falls into the hand of the living God.’ Philip Bliss understood that terror and wrote what might have been Governor Felix’s, or King Agrippa’s response to Paul in Acts chapter 24 and 26. For years Christian’s have sung this old spiritual song as an invitation to come to God.
“Almost persuaded” now to believe; “Almost persuaded” Christ to receive; Seems now some soul to say, “Go, Spirit, go Thy way, Some more convenient day On Thee I’ll call.”
“Almost persuaded,” come, come today; “Almost persuaded,” turn not away; Jesus invites you here, Angels are lingering near Prayers rise from hearts so dear; O wanderer, come!
“Almost persuaded,” harvest is past! “Almost persuaded,” doom comes at last! “Almost” cannot avail; “Almost” is but to fail!
Sad, sad, that bitter wail – “Almost,” but lost!
Spooky old houses and howls in the night may send a chill down your spine. Scary thoughts waft through the night air as we walk dark lonely streets. But nothing is as fearful as ‘almost’ confessing Christ; ‘almost’ being baptized into His name and ‘almost’ giving your life over to Him. Some will say, ‘almost’, while others say ‘go away.’ But what a terrifying thing to reject Him and fall into the hands of the living God!
Concerning a particular situation or a specific set of circumstances some might said, ‘What a coincidence!’ But how do we know if something is coincidental (lucky) or if it’s more likely providential? Often we look at life and see it as lucky or unlucky, black or white and yet all the while we might be missing the point. Perhaps we come up short of giving God the credit He deserves for working in our lives. Perhaps we need to be better about recognizing and seeing that God’s hands are working in ways we can not see. (Remember the song “God Will Make a Way.”) After all, don’t we pray for Him to be with us?
Consider two Christian song writers from this century; Chisholm and Sanderson. T.O. Chisholm was a well renowned American song writer during the early 1900’s. Many of his 1,200 works of Christian poetry have found their way into some of our hymnals. In 1960, at the age of 94, Chisholm passed from this life. His works are well documented but we’ll consider one that was born on a lonely, dark night.
Another well noted writer and composer from the same era was L.O. Sanderson. Sanderson was a preacher of the gospel as well a noted musician. He is recognized as one who wrote the words and music to many of our gospel songs. He was born in 1901 and passed away in 1992, at the age of 91. Like Chisholm, Sanderson penned the music to one particular song in the dark hours of the night. Perhaps it’s not surprising that these two men combined their talents to produce some ‘greats songs of the church.’
It was recorded that one night around midnight, Sanderson was working alone in his office. He had been preparing his sermon for the coming Sunday morning, but a new, specific tune kept running through his mind. To satisfy his musical creativity, he stopped his study and jotted down the musical notes. In a few short weeks he sent the music to his friend, T.O. Chisholm, and inquired of him if had any poetry to fit the scales. As Chisholm reviewed the work of his friend, he found the musical bars (the meter, 11.10.11.10) were a perfect fit for the poetry he penned, “Be with me, Lord – I can not live without Thee, I dare not try to take one step alone, I cannot bear the loads of life, unaided, I need Thy strength to lean myself upon…”
As the two friends compared notes and asked each other questions about this specific work, they found that they both had similar circumstances surrounding their endeavors. Both were working late one night (after midnight to be precise), and both were preoccupied with some specific words, a specific tune, floating within their mind. They were struggling to accomplish one task while trying to embrace this new song. And yet both were unable to be resolution to their struggle until they put their music, poetry, to paper. The extraordinary piece of this puzzle was that both men were creating this song of praise and affirmation some 1000’s of miles apart. Could it have been a coincidence or just plain lucky? Was this just a great accident of hymnology or was our God, the Great Composer, at work in creating a hymn for His people to sing for the ages?
Two men of God, in two separate towns divided by hundreds of miles sitting in their respective offices churning out their own contribution to this hymn of prayer. Perhaps Chisholm’s inspiration in the third verse explains this more clearly; “…a constant sense of Thy abiding presence, where ‘er I am, to feel that Thou art near.”
How excited is the Olympic athlete when he/she comes in second? Why are we thrilled to come in first, but fall into the doldrums of depression when we lose? The athlete prepares themselves to win, and stand on the podium for the gold medal, not the silver. Even in life we strive for first place…never for second.
Even Paul urged us to ‘…Run in such a way that you may win.’ (Obviously he is referring to the ‘imperishable wreath.’) So shouldn’t we strive for first place? Perhaps we need to consider what race we’re running? Maybe we get to focused on running in the wrong race. Or maybe our competitive nature causes us to ‘run over’ some folks who actually may be needing help running the race. Or just maybe, we are striving to win in the world rather than looking at heaven’s race. What ever the case, what is it that we should be running for? Christ told us in Mark 12…the most important thing, our goal is to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. When we do that, then we’ll be in 1st Place!
“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15
Sunday morning, October 20, 2013
The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“I Will Call Upon the Lord” – 63
The Lord Lives! We open our worship time together singing scripture (Psalm 18:3). David wrote, “I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies.” Perhaps we know this song so well we forget that we have deliverance from those who hate us. In a world torn by division we should all be seeking pure hearts, loving our God first and calling upon Him often.
“Purer in Heart, O God” – 671
How do you devote your life? Are you concerned about where you’re walking, how you’re living? We sing this hymn (a song of prayer) asking for God’s guidance and protection. It’s an encouragement to me as I hear my brothers and sisters in Christ singing and praying for God to ‘help me to be pure in heart, so that one day I may see Your holy face…’ Would that we all long for God to reign within our lives (within our souls).
“One Day!” – 353
The first verse of this song takes us back to the day of Christ’s birth, when He came to earth. We continue with the second verse looking to ‘Calvary’s mountain’ and His suffering. The third verse will take us to the tomb where He was laid. But the chorus is our focus as we sing this song before the Lord’s Supper; “Living, He loved me; Dying, He saved me; Buried, He carried my sins far away; Rising, He justified freely forever…One day He’s coming (back), Oh glorious day!” Christ gave Himself so we might be ‘justified,’ by definition: “To be declared free of blame.” Though we are sinful men, if we give our lives to Christ and are baptized into His death, we have been declared free of sin because of His death on Calvary’s mountain.
“Majestic Sweetness” – 530
Notice the title of this song and where ‘majestic sweetness’ is enthroned. The answer; “…upon the Savior’s brow;” (head) Now consider the 3rd verse; “He saw me plunged in deep despair and flew to my relief; for me He bore the shameful cross, and carried all my grief.” Certainly we owe Him our life and breath, and all the joys we have. It’s no surprise that Samuel Stennett would concluded this hymn with the phrase…“Had I a thousand hearts to give, Lord they should all be Thine…”
“Teach Me Thy Way, O Lord” – 762
Remember the old adage, ‘you can’t teach an old dog new tricks?’ It’s true for many areas in life, but when it comes to Godliness we better take a look at how teachable we are. When I’m lost I’m more than eager to have someone ‘show me the way’. When I am sad of heart or when fears and doubts arise, I’m more receptive to being comforted and consoled. As we sing about God’s guidance, would that we long to be taught His ways!
“The Greatest Commands” – 448
A great contemporary song that provides each of the four basic parts an opportunity to sing their individual lines, yet all in harmony. Notice each of these verses come from the scripture; I John 4:7, 8, I Corinthians 13:7 and Christ’s words in Mark as He says, “Love the Lord, thy God with all thy heart, with all thy soul, all thy strength all thy mind…”; a beautiful soprano line. But here’s some homework for you; which part (bass, tenor or alto) sings the words from I Corinthians 13:7?
“Let Him Have His Way with Thee” – no book
This old spiritual song will serve as our invitation as we ask the question, “Would you live for Jesus and be always pure and good?” If you say ‘Yes’, then you will choose to let Him have His way with you. But what does that mean? It means that His power, His blood and His love will all be first and foremost in your life. Then ‘you will see ’twas best for Him to have His way with thee.’
“Hear, O Israel” – 446
Theses words are taken straight from the Bible (and sung already this morning). It is first found in Deuteronomy chapter 6, but is repeated by Christ in the gospels. This morning, our basis for study will be Mark 12 when Christ is asked, “What commandment is the foremost of all?” (verse 28) His reply, as He so powerful demonstrated time and again, was to sight the scripture. “The Lord our God is one Lord; and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart…soul…mind… and strength.” Question: How are we doing in life, are we winning first place?
Philip Nolan was a fictitious Army Lieutenant for the Union during the American Civil War. Accused of being an accomplice of treason he is put on trial. During his testimony, in anger, he renounces his country shouting, “I wish I may never hear of the United States again!” Shocked by the outburst of defiance, with cold resolve the judge grants him his wish. Nolan is sentenced to spend the rest of his life aboard United States Navy warships, in exile, with no right ever again to set foot on U.S. soil. The final element of punishment is that no one shall ever mention his country to him again. He becomes, the ‘Man without a Country.’
Citizenship in a country is a sign of belonging. It establishes your rights and your membership. If you are not a citizen of a country (or a community), you have no voice or privilege within that country/community. Our lesson this Sunday asks the question with no clarification, simply…’are you a citizen?’ Join us as we consider our citizenship.
“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15
Sunday morning, October 8, 2013
The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“Hallelujah! Praise Jehovah” 3
A beautiful song of praise to our God…read Psalm 148 and you will better understand the power and majesty of this ‘psalm’ of praise.
“Seek Ye First” – 555
A contemporary psalm (song from the scripture) that I remember singing around the campfire. A ‘teen’ song that inspires the singer/listener to seek God first. Open your Bible to Matthew 6:33 and sing, “but seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you…”
“Hallelujah, What a Savior” – 337
Another psalm as we consider the words of Isaiah in his 53rd chapter…“He is despised and rejected by men, a Man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. And we hid, as it were, our faces from Him; He was despised, and we did not esteem Him.” But consider this verse carefully as you sing…”Guilty, vile and helpless we; (we are not innocent, we are disgusting (vile) and unable to take care of ourselves. Jesus, however, is the Lamb of God, who is without blemish (spotless). Is it possible (can it be) therefore, that we can have full atonement (cleansing) from our guilty, vile and helpless situation? The answer is yes and our response is simple…“Hallelujah! What a Savior.”
“Sweet Adoration” – 253
“Sweet adoration comes from Your children…” Do we admire our God and tell Him that in our songs? More than saying it, do we live it? Can the world see our glory and honor and praise to God as a part of our constant devotion?
“My Hope is Built on Nothing Less” – 538
On Christ…the SOLID Rock I stand! Where do you stand?
“Jesus, Let Us Come to Know You” – 768
Not your typical invitation song, but this spiritual song calls us to say to our Lord, ‘Jesus, let us come to know You.’ We’ll never know Him, until we give our lives to Him!
“When the Roll is Called Upon Yonder” – 852
The teacher takes roll in class for the simple purpose to find out “who’s there.” This song was born from the same idea, but looking toward eternity. When life is over, when the Lord is ‘taking roll’ will our name be called? When the ‘roll is called’ up yonder…will you be there?
This Sunday, Robert Taylor will bring the morning lesson here at Waterview. As we consider ‘The Opportunity of Weakness’ my first thought comes from the pen of Paul in II Corinthians. Having an opportunity to be weak almost seems like a contradiction in terms. But perhaps we need to look at the words of Christ as He says, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.”
II Corinthians 12:9
In 1948 J.R. Baxter wrote the melancholy hymn, Just a Closer Walk with Thee. The first verse seems to sum up Paul’s ‘thorn in the flesh’ issues from II Corinthians as we sing, “I am weak, but Thou art strong…” Join us on Sunday morning as we take a look at the opportunity of weakness.
“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15
Sunday morning, September 29, 2013
The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“Let Every Heart Rejoice and Sing” 8
“Let every heart rejoice and sing!” Our opening song this morning will focus us on the praise we should be giving to our God and Father. Notice the chorus; “…while the rocks and the rills (streams), while the vales (valleys) and the hills a glorious anthem raise…” All creation speaks of His glory; so should we!
“As the Deer” – 71
A contemporary song taken from the 42nd chapter of the Psalms. Have you ever been so thirst you felt you might ‘dry up and blow away?’ To have just a small drink of water on a hot, miserable day would be great. But do we ‘pant’ (earnestly desire) our God as much as H2O. Rest assured, we will ‘dry up’ in this life without Him. Let’s live so we can say our hearts ‘long to worship’ Him.
“Lead Me to Calvary” – 332
Turning our minds to the cross we sing the following words (from the 2nd verse), ‘Show me the tomb where Thou wast (was) laid, tenderly mourned and wept; angels in robes of light arrayed guarded Thee whilest (while) Thou slept.’ A couple of things to notice; Jesus slept for 3 days (Matt. 16:21). He wasn’t in the grave to ‘undergo decay,’ (Acts 13:37) because we know He lives. But also, ‘…angels in robes of light ARRAYED…’. Interesting to realize the definition for array (besides fine clothes/dress) is an ‘orderly, often imposing alignment.’ Maybe this line is referencing the angels as they ‘guarded the tomb’, and not so much their white, ‘light’, robes.
“Til My Faith Because Sight” – 836
A beautiful song of our faith! See how we reference our Savior in the two verses; “Bread of Life, Living Water, Lover of my soul, Lamb of God, hope of glory, Savior…crucified”, certainly we are singing a hymn to Him…precious holy Lord and King! But how about that line in the chorus, ‘though they slay me’, what if ‘I fall in darkness’…will I still remain faithful? He is your light in this dark world. But you must ask yourself, will I be faithful until He returns?
“Wonderful Love of Jesus” – 308
An older song of praise with a repetitive, catchy chorus, “Wonderful love, wonderful love, wonderful love of Jesus!” But what does “In vain and high and holy lays…”, actually mean? Consider our songs (our lays, ballads), do we offer them up (raise them on high) for nothing? Obviously we want to sing from our hearts and offer a pleasing sacrifice of praise from our lips. But the context of vain in this song is not ‘useless’, but rather far from worthy of our God and King. Defined; vain is “lacking substance or worth.” We should sing with all our heart, and strive to give Him our best in this sacrifice of praise.
“Father Hear the Prayer We Offer” – 777
“Father, hear the prayer we offer; nor for ease that prayer shall be, but for strength that we may ever live our lives courageously.” I wonder if sometimes we pray for things to be good for us (easy), rather than asking for strength to stand firm in the fight against Satan. And not just strength to ‘carry on’, but strength to be steadfast, faithful and loyal in the life we live for Christ and His church.
“Soldier’s of Christ, Arise” – 647
Before the lesson this morning we’ll sing a song that dates back to mid-1700’s. Charles Wesley penned the words that echo Ephesians 6, the armor of God. Notice the progression of the verses. Verse 1‘…put your armor on…’ . Verse 2, “…who in the strength of Jesus trusts, is more than conqueror.” Verse 3, “…take to arm you (arm yourself) for the fight the panoply (the complete set of armor) of God.” Verse 4, “Leave no unguarded place…fortify the whole.” Verse 5, “That having all things done (when life is over)…you may o’ercome thru Christ alone…” Soldiers, we fight various battles every day, but never forget, Christ has won the war!
“Hark the Gentle Voice of Jesus” – 907
Our invitation song is simple; are you weary, do you labor in this life, are you ‘heavy-laden?’ Come, and Christ will give you rest. And that ‘yoke’ we sing about in verses 2 & 3…it’s a source of connection for us with Christ; we are yoked with Him in His suffering. But the rest He offers makes the burden lighter.
“Hilltops of Glory” – no book
An older spiritual song that encourages us as we ‘tread life’s way.’ As we live for Christ and strive to serve Him we look homeward and catch a glimpse of the Hilltops of Glory. Maybe we should be better about asking each other, “…brother won’t you come go with me?”
Have you ever wished you had known about something that was coming up so you could have been a part of it? A presentation or special program that you would have promoted, supported or at least attended if someone had ‘clued you in’ on the opportunity. Sometimes we find out about things after the fact and, to be honest, at that time, it’s a little too late. The chance to participate and grow would have been a welcome part of your schedule, but instead…you missed a golden opportunity.
The young mother would have benefited from the seminar on parenting and child raising, but no invitation was offered to her. The old coach would like to have seen and heard the athlete who was scheduled to speak at the fund raiser; but no one thought to send the old man an invitation. Granted, they might not have gone to the event, but you’ll never know unless you invite them. We miss some great opportunities to enrich the lives of others simply because we don’t say anything. We know some great gem of interest, but hold it to ourselves and miss a golden opportunity. Why do we pass up those moments to encourage and reach out? Are we just too busy taking care of our wants that we don’t give thought to what someone else might enjoy, or need?
Maybe the answer lies in our attitude or perhaps in our lack of courage and conviction. Either way, if you have some good news to share and an invitation to offer but instead hold it back you are, for all practical purposes, taking away an opportunity.
The same can be said about our faith in Christ. Certainly you’ve read Matthew 28 as our Savior exhorts us to, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit…” But how will ‘the nations’ become disciples (be baptized) if they have never hear about the Son? Romans 10:14 states it best; “How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed? How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher?” There must be someone who will teach (preach) about the Savior. Someone must be ready to offer an invitation to ‘come’ and know about Jesus. Who will tell your friends about heaven? Will you share with them the golden opportunity for salvation?
In the early 1900’s, James Rowe penned a song that some classify as sad and ‘depressing.’ A song that reminds us of the responsibility we have to teach (even show) our faith in Christ to our friends. Have you taken the time to tell someone about Jesus? They can never believe unless they hear and they’ll never hear unless they are told. Don’t wait for someone else to ‘offer the invitation’, that opportunity of a life time is yours and yours alone.
When in the better land, before the bar we stand how deeply grieved our souls will be If any lost one there should cry in deep despair; ‘You never mentioned Him to me.’
Refrain: You never mentioned Him to me. Nor help me not the light to see, You met me day by day and knew I was astray Yet never mentioned Him to me.
O let us spread the word, where ‘er it may be heard Help groping souls the light to see. That yonder none may say, ‘You showed me not the way.’ You never mentioned Him to me.
Refrain:
A few sweet words may guide a lost one to His side or turn sad eyes to Calvary. So work as days go by, that yonder none may cry, ‘You never mentioned Him to me.’
Refrain:
The old athlete might enjoy hearing some motivational talk from his younger counterpart, and the young mother might need help raising her child in the nurture and admonition of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4). But will anyone invite them to come, learn and grown. Without an invitation or a word of encouragement we miss a golden opportunity to provide that support. But more over, without sharing Jesus to our friends and family we miss an even greater opportunity to ‘turn sad eyes to Calvary.’
William Bradbury lived during the mid-1800’s (1816-1868) and wrote the music for some well known hymns sung by the saints for generations. Songs like ” ‘Tis Midnight and On Olive’s Brow”, “He Leadeth Me” and “My Hope is Built on Nothing Less”. Other favorites like “Just As I Am” and “Soldier’s of Christ, Arise” are all the musical work of William Bradbury. Perhaps one of his most noted, recognizable tunes was written in 1862 to support the simple words penned by Anna B. Warner, “Jesus Loves Me”.
Some may remember the old hymn from W. W. Walford entitled, “Sweet Hour of Prayer”. This is another musical arrangement from the hand of William Bradbury. But there was yet another song (same, long meter) which took the same tune with the following words:
{sing these words to “Sweet Hour of Prayer”}
Before the throne of God above, I have a strong and perfect plea: A great High Priest whose name is love, Who ever lives and pleads for me. My name is graven on His hands. My name is written on His heart. I know that while in heav’n He stands. No tongue can bid me hence depart.
Though you might not be familiar with these words accompanying “Sweet Hour of Prayer”, you might be familiar with these words as they accompany a tune written by Vikki Cook in 1997. A songwriter and composer, Vikki Cook and her husband Steve have written numerous contemporary songs. One of her more popular hymns is known as “Holy Lord” or “Great Are You, Lord”.
Listen to this old hymn (penned in 1863) sung to an arrangement developed over 120 years later. The words are strong as you translate the Old English poetry, but the musical arrangement brings new life to a beautiful, old message. Before the throne of God I stand…
In an age when we see microscopic details, it’s important to remember that God sees more clearly than we ever can; He sees into our hearts. Consider these passages; I Samuel 16:7 ‘…man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.’ Psalm 26:2 ‘Test me, O Lord, and try me, examine my heart and my mind.’ and Romans 8:27 ‘…and He who searches our heart knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God’s will.’
Luke records in Acts 13:22 that God said, ‘I have found David son of Jesse a man after my own heart…’ Perhaps we should be seeking to know more about why David received such accolades. What could we be doing in this life to receive this kind of recognition? Join us Sunday morning as we consider how we can become closer to living ‘after God’s own heart.’
“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15
Sunday morning, September 15, 2013
The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“Living By Faith” 560
“I care not today what the morrow may bring, if shadow or sunshine or rain…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 in this life. We’ll open our worship time together with this song of encouragement as we proclaim that we’re living by faith.
“In His Presence” – 99
A simple contemporary song that claims comfort, peace and blessed assurance are found in the presence of the Lord. What a blessed station in life to be covered in His presence. This song is basic in musical arrangement and basic in message. But still you have to ask yourself, “Do I come to seek His presence?” You will, you have, if you seek the Father’s heart?
“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 song of praise with the saints of old.
“There is a Place of Quiet Rest” – 477
Do you try, in your daily life, to be near to God? Would that we understand the quiet rest, sweet comfort and full release (complete release) from our bondage of sin comes as we draw near to the heart of God! The refrain is so powerful as we sing, “O Jesus, blessed Redeemer, sent from the heart of God, Hold us who wait before Thee, near to the heart of God.” Notice where we must be if we hope to be near God? We can only come to God the Father through His Son, and our Savior, Jesus Christ!
“Beneath the Cross of Jesus” – 314
Before we commemorate the Lord’s death, burial and resurrection, we meet together ‘beneath the cross of Jesus’. Focus for a moment on the 3rd verse of this spiritual song; “Upon that cross of Jesus, mine eye at times can see the very dying form of One who suffered there for me; And from my smitten (laid low) heart with tears two wonders I confess: The wonder of (1) His glorious love, (2) my own worthlessness.” Come to the cross, remember His sacrifice, and consider what you have done to deserve this measure of unconditional love.
“Oh, To Be Like Thee” – 429
“Stamp Thine Own Image, deep on my heart.” Who do you want to be like? Growing up, you no doubt said, ‘when I grow up I want to be like…’ Have we instilled a desire in our children that they would sing (say), “I want to be like Jesus!” We might not say it, but the Christian believes it. But again…is that our ‘constant longing and prayer?’ Would that we wear His perfect likeness and have Him stamped on our heart, in our lives. O to be like Thee!
“Jesus is Tenderly Calling” – 947
The ‘invitation’ is a simple call, not so much from man, but from the Savior. “Jesus is tenderly calling…” If your phone rang wouldn’t you pick it up and answer the call; especially if it was the Messiah? Unfortunately, all too many would check the caller ID first and the determine if they had the time to take His call. You know there’s another song that goes…“Today is the day of salvation, tomorrow may be too late!” Answer the call today!
“The Love of God” – 122
A great, upbeat song of encouragement as we close our services this Sunday morning. Men, we’ll echo the ladies in the chorus as we sing about the love of God. But let me direct you first to the words of the 2nd verse; “Since the love of God came down with His love our lives to crown, He with us would remain; greater love there could not be, Jesus died for you and me, in our hearts, He would reign…” So maybe, if we truly want to be a man ‘after God’s own heart’, we ought to live with Jesus in our hearts.
without an asteroid heading our way, we still have troubles to deal with and issues we must face. Who comes to the rescue then? Here ‘in the real world’ we have things that need to get done. We say, this is a job for ____________. When the job (big or small) needs to be done and the only ‘super man’ around isn’t able to ‘leap tall buildings’…what do you do?
