We’re Marching and Singing to Zion…Pt 3

As this three part study comes to a close, perhaps the strongest reminder of how we are to sing comes when we consider the words of the author of Hebrews.

When we sing songs of praise we are offering a sacrifice to God. Hebrews 13:15, ‘…let us continually offer a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name.’ Singing songs of praise, ‘the fruit of lips’ is our giving to God a sacrifice of praise. (Hebrews 2:12) What kind of a sacrifice are you offering? Before you answer, let me remind you of Leviticus 10:1-3. During the offering of sacrifices in the Old Testament, Nadab and Abihu offered ‘strange fire’ before the Lord. These two men, sons of Aaron, violated God’s command for sacrifices and were subsequently struck down. Notice how Moses responded to this tragedy… “It is what the Lord spoke, saying, ‘By those who come near Me I will be treated as holy, and before all the people I will be honored.” We must ask ourselves, ‘When I’m singing on Sunday morning, what kind of sacrifice am I offering God?’ Do I sing and listen for my own satisfaction? Am I honestly thinking about what I’m singing? My prayer is for God’s people everywhere to stop and think about our singing in worship. Let’s sing with the Spirit!

Standing with our brothers and sisters in Christ and opening our minds and hearts (not to mention our voices), we might sing another hymn penned more than 300 years ago; “Praise God from whom all blessings flow. Praise Him all creatures here below. Praise Him above, ye heavenly host. Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost!” Doxology is a simple song of praise to our God and Father and echoes our soul’s unquestionable need to praise our Creator. As Christ entered Jerusalem in Luke 19, just days before His arrest, the crowds praised Him saying, “Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord; Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” Hearing this praise, some of the Pharisees, approached Jesus and told Him to reprimand and silence His followers. But notice His response; “I tell you, if these become silent, the stones will cry out!” In short…we were made to give praise to God. If we refuse to, His creation will sing it out. If you’re not sure about that, read Psalm 148 (or sing “Hallelujah, Praise Jehovah”). Though many might ignore our God-given need to praise Him, and while many more may offer excuses as to why they’re not singing praises to God, remember Romans 14:11, “…Every knee shall bow to Me, and every tongue shall give praise to God.”

As brothers and sisters in Christ we remember that we’re singing and ‘marching to Zion’. Consider the second verse of this spiritual song; “Let those refuse to sing who never knew our God; but children of the heavenly King may speak their joys abroad.” Some don’t know the joy that comes in being a child of God. Their refusal to sing is out of ignorance. But those of us who are ‘children of the heavenly King’ must be ready and willing to speak (to sing) our joys abroad. You and I know as we are marching, we’re also singing along the way to Zion.

1, March 26, 20131, September 19, 2013

Who Am I?

Are you blessed? When the temperatures fall in the winter, do you consider the warmth of your home a blessing? When the summer heats up and the sun beats down on you, do you find the comfort of your oscillating fan a blessing?

All too often we find ourselves living in an self-satisfying world. The young teenage boy opens the refrigerator expecting it to be filled with food (though he may hold the door open for 15 minutes trying to decide what he wants). When we flip the light switch in the hall we expect instant illumination. We turn on the shower and become frustrated when it takes too long for the water to heat up. In short…we expect favorable results. But why do we think this way? Who am I to assume that just because I expect things to be a certain way they will be? Unfortunately we are living in a time (a culture) of entitlement. When we once cherished what we had, now we expect it…and more. The university graduate, with diploma in hand, expecting a 6 figure income. Many not wanting to work their way to the top, but rather expecting to automatically be placed there. The young family moving into their first home? Make that a 4-bedroom, 3-bath, 2-car garage, because, “Hey, I deserve it…” But what really do I deserve? It’s probably not what I would expect.

During the last several months many have shared with me this song made popular by Rusty Goodman in 1965. Many years ago I remember hearing Elvis Presley sing this song, but it never sounded as strong as it does in this arrangement. Sung by the “Alter of Praise Chorale” in 2010, this song speaks to the blessing we have in a Christ. Notice the words, then listen to the human voice sing this song of humility and reverence.

Oh when I think of how He left His home in glory
Came and dwelt among the lowly such as I
To suffer shame and such disgrace on Mount Calvary
Take my place then I ask myself a question, “Who am I?”

Who am I that the King would bleed and die for?
Who am I that He would pray “not my will, Thine Lord?”
The answer I may never know, why He ever loved me so
That to an old rugged cross He’d go for who am I?

When I’m reminded of His words, I’ll leave Him never
If you’ll be true I’ll give to you life forever
Oh, I wonder what I could have done to deserve God’s only Son
To fight my battles until they’re won for who am I?

Who am I that the King would bleed and die for?
Who am I that He would pray not my will, Thy Lord?
The answer I may never know, why He ever loved me so
But to an old rugged cross He’d go for who am I?
But to an old rugged cross He’d go for who am I?

Paul’s inspired words to the church in Rome remind me that I am a blessed man. We don’t deserve anything good, but we have been given the best gift ever. Who am I to be the recipient of such an honor? Why would God look down on me and have mercy on me, a sinner. You’ve heard the song written some 47 years ago, but now read the inspired words penned some 2000 years ago and ask yourself…who am I? “For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die, yet perhaps for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commended His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:6-8

Enjoy the blessings God has given you. The warmth of your home when the cold air is swirling around; the cool side of the pillow on the hot summer night, and best of all…the assurance that God has given us the greatest gift of all time.

1, March 23, 2013

A Land that is Fairer Than Day

These past few days, several trips have been made back and forth between the hospital and the house for both my brother and me.

Not a quick drive across town, but a 50 mile drive (one way) across the Metroplex. Perhaps for many that’s not a big deal and they do it daily in their commute, but personally I like to stay close to home. My brother had it even tougher; his drive as 6 hours round trip and he made it several time too. But for me, big city driving has never been a favorite pastime. But we all know that ‘you do what have to do’…better yet, we do what needs to be done! And for me these past few days, making that jaunt needed to be done.

Daddy fell two weeks ago come Monday as he was walking down the hall way in his apartment. A walk he had taken hundreds of times in the last 7 years, but on March 11th this ‘last’ walk ended with him laying on the floor with a fractured hip. From there it was a hard road…surgery was 3 days later, and rehab was inevitable. He seemed to be coming along pretty well on Monday, four days after surgery, but this afternoon it all changed. Due to complications from his surgery (blood clot most likely), daddy passed away. From all accounts it happened pretty quickly and he didn’t suffer. The road ahead was looking to be a long one and the rehabilitation was certain to be difficult for daddy. But he’s free from that pain now. His body (more like his soul) is at rest and we will do our best to honor his memory.

As my brother and I stood in the emergency room this afternoon and said our final ‘Good-bye’, Doyle quietly said the following words; “There’s a land that is fairer than day…” I echoed, “…and by faith we can see it afar.” Daddy has gone home and this physical life is behind him now. We rest assured knowing that there is a sweet by and by, and that thought brings us comfort. Time changes everything and we all realize that death comes in time, but we hold fast to the hope we have in Christ. As I drove home from the hospital this evening I spent some time singing and talking to God. My prayer was simple; asking for comfort, safety on the road and understanding…but something more was added to my prayer list. I thanked God for giving me a daddy who taught me Jesus Christ. A father who raised me to honor God and always strive to serve Him. For that blessing I am most thankful!

There’s a land that is fairer than day,
And by faith we can see it afar;
For the Father waits over the way
To prepare us a dwelling place there.
- Chorus:
  In the sweet by and by,
  We shall meet on that beautiful shore;
  In the sweet by and by,
  We shall meet on that beautiful shore.
We shall sing on that beautiful shore
The melodious songs of the blessed;
And our spirits shall sorrow no more,
Not a sigh for the blessing of rest.
To our bountiful Father above,
We will offer our tribute of praise
For the glorious gift of His love
And the blessings that hallow our days.

As I conclude this memorial to my daddy, let me take a moment to share a passage from the book which bears his name. James chapter 5:13 “Is anyone among you suffering? Then he must pray. Is anyone cheerful? He is to sing praises.” After 83 years, James Bruce will be missed on this earth. His last surviving brother and two sisters (not to mention his widow and four sons and their families) will miss him dearly, but we hold to the hope that some day soon… “We shall meet on that beautiful shore.”

1, March 18, 20131, March 16, 2013

The Extra ‘Last’ Mile

In Matthew 5, Jesus tells us how far we should be willing to go. Not only for those who are kind and deserving, but also for those who you are not deserving.
Read the following scripture:

“…if anyone wants to sue you, and take your shirt, let him have your coat also. (not exactly a friendly encounter) And whoever shall force (not ask) you to go one mile, go with him two.” How could our Lord and Savior expect us to do kind things to someone who is attacking and forcing us with a selfish attitude? Does it make sense that we should just ‘roll over’ and give in to the demands of a cruel, somewhat childish, but most certainly domineering personality? In this same passage Jesus says in verse 39…“But I tell you, do not resist and evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.” How does God expect us to just stand around and be a punching bag to a violent, egocentrically strong-arm? Will your conscience let you do that?

Remember I Corinthians 10:13, “No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not let you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.” This should give us confidence to know that even when things are hard to understand, God will help us overcome difficult circumstances. When we are ‘forced’ to go the extra mile, we do it because of Christ’s example.

In 1908, Johnson Oatman wrote a song that reminds me of going the extra mile. The chorus resounds with the title, “When I’ve gone the last mile of the way, I will rest at the close of the day, and I know there are joys that await me when I’ve gone the last mile of the way.” Notice each verse as the song builds; we consider working daily (vs.1), to seeking the lost (vs 2), all the way to the end of this physical life (vs 3) and final till we reach the hope of eternal life (vs. 4).

“If I walk in the pathway of duty,
if I work till the close of the day,
I shall see the great King in His beauty
when I’ve gone the last mile of the way.

If for Christ I proclaim the glad story,
if I seek for His sheep gone astray,
I am sure He will show me His glory
when I’ve gone the last mile of the way.

Here the dearest of ties we must sever,
tears of sorrow are seen every day;
but no sickness, no sighing forever
when I’ve gone the last mile of the way.

And if here I have earnestly striven
and have tried all His will to obey,
’twill (it will) enhance all the rapture (joy) of heaven
when I’ve gone the last mile of the way.”

In a life that is filled with difficulties and hardships, all the while laced with seemingly unfair circumstances, we often wonder why we must go any further. Why shouldn’t we stand up and say enough is enough. Perhaps our answer comes in the 12th chapter of Hebrews, “…consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” Do you feel like the extra mile is too much for you? So how far are you willing to go? What is your breaking point? Will you truly go the extra mile? If you will honestly walk in the pathway of duty, and if you will truly work till the close of the day you can rest assured there are joys that await you when you’ve gone the last mile of the way!

1, March 14, 20131, March 14, 2013

The Shakers…March 17th

In reading Matthew chapter 5 we see Jesus is giving us some very specific directions on how we are to live. This coming Sunday morning (3.17) we’ll look at the directive we are given in that we are ‘the salt of the earth.’ However, Jesus adds an interesting twist when he say, ‘…but if the salt becomes tasteless…”. Perhaps you’ll join us as we look at the line of thinking considering our responsibilities.

My prayer is that this ‘order of worship’ will help you focus on our songs as we come together to worship our God. Thinking about our songs we should say;

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

Sunday morning, March 17, 2013

The following songs come from the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“We Praise Thee O God” & “Restore My Soul” – 2 & no book

This medley combines the old with the new! We conclude the chorus of We Praise Thee, O God with “Hallelujah! Thine the glory; revive us, again.” and begin with “Restore my spirit, Lord, I need restored…” A marriage of two beautiful songs separated by more than 10 years, but blending the same thought of praise and restoration.

“Living for Jesus” – 676

We’ll begin with the chorus of this spiritual song by T. O. Chisholm, and then transition into the 2nd verse. Notice what we’ll be singing; “Living for Jesus who died in my stead (my place), bearing to Calvary MY sin and disgrace (not His); Such love (this kind of love) constrains me to answer His call (does it ‘compel’ you?), follow His leading and give Him my all…” Keep your heart on Him and give Him your life every day!

“Lord, Take Control” – 790

How much do you consider to be yours and how much do you consider to be God’s? When we sing this new song we’re asking God to take control of our lives. But how much of your life are you willing to let go of? Read the words we’ll be singing on Sunday; “My heart, my mind, my body, my soul…” How much do you have left if you give God your emotions, your thoughts, your physical being and your spiritual being?

“Remind Me, Dear Lord” – 606

Following the Lord’s Supper I like for the congregation to remember once more how lost we would be without our Savior’s sacrifice. There is nothing that we have done to deserve God’s own Son. If we can remember that we’re not worthy of the scares in His hands perhaps we understand better that the things we value in life are just borrowed. We all need to have the curtain of memory rolled back every now and then so we can see where Jesus has brought us from and where we could have been…

“Jesus is All the World to Me” & “I’m Not Ashamed to Own My Lord” – 590 & 609

Before the lesson we’ll sing this short medley as we recognize how important Jesus is to our lives, but also that we are not ashamed to tell the world. In the same key but with a bit more energy we’ll transition from “…He’s my friend.” to “I’m not ashamed to own my Lord nor to defend His cause…”

“Have Thine Own Way Lord” – 552

Though this might not appear to be a typical invitation song, we are called to give our lives over to God. Let Him has His way in our lives. Easy to say, not often done! Can you say that you want God to “…hold over your being absolute sway”? Do you know what that even means? By definition ‘sway’ can mean to control or rule over. Are you OK with God having absolute control of your life? But only by YOUR choice…

“Home of the Soul” -875

A song of Heaven…we’ve been singing this song since 1912. Some of our older members remember when this song was a new, ‘contemporary’ song. (Think about it…this is a hundred year old song. Those who are in their 70’s and 80’s sang this song when it was only 20 or 30 years old.) Perhaps they best understand how comforting it is to sing of the rest that… ‘will be given on the eternal shore.’

1, March 11, 20131, March 11, 2013

A Faithful Friend

The greatest compliment we might ever receive comes when someone calls us their friend. Perhaps we are all in search of a friend who is true and faithful!

How many friends would you say you have? How many faithful and true friends would answer your phone call in the early hours of the morning? A faithful friend is always there in the hard times. A faithful friend is consistent day in and day out. As a child of God, we can know our God is faithful…

Lamentations 3:22 reads, “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassion never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” The following YouTube (sung by the Blue Rock Mennonite Youth) will provide a good A Cappella arrangement of T.O. Chisholm’s, Great Is Thy Faithfulness.

So often we are willing to help our friends when it’s convenient for our schedule. But if things are busy in our life or if we just ‘don’t feel like it’, our friendship might come into question. This hymn (a song that is sung to our God) states in the chorus, “Morning by morning new mercies I see…” But read about the surmounting evidence as referenced in the 2nd verse…“Summer and winter, springtime 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.”

How faithful do you think God is to you? Would you consider Him your friend. As we draw this article to a close, read the words of Paul in I Corinthians 10:13, “No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.” When times are difficult and life is tough, is there a friend you can call on. My faith looks heavenward as I know He’s a faithful friend. Great is His faithfulness!

1, March 8, 20131, March 8, 2013

The Least…March 10th

Sunday morning, March 10th at Waterview church of Christ, our lesson will be presented by Robert Taylor as he provides a update from our mission work in Nicaragua.

When we pour out our coins for the ‘Breakfast Program’ in Nicaragua, we are doing much more than filling a small basket. We are providing more than just a warm meal. We are opening doors for the word to be spread in yet another mission field. This morning we’ll spend some time considering the words of our Lord in Matthew 25. Perhaps you will find the following ‘order of worship’ a means by which you can focus your mind on the songs we’ll sing this coming Lord’s day.

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

Sunday morning, March 10, 2013

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

“The Great Redeemer” – 250

It’s interesting to realize that this song is almost 100 years old. Written by Francis Foster in 1915, “The Great Redeemer” stirs the emotions as all four parts take an active lead in harmonizing the voice and praising our God. But ask yourself if you will honestly do what you say you will do in the chorus; “…I will never cease to raise a song of gladness in His praise.”

“I Will Sing the Wondrous Story” – 509

Another song with some beautiful harmony. This YouTube link is a good acappella arrangement that you can listen to and sing with… “Yes, I’ll sing the wondrous story.”

“How Beautiful” – 365

A contemporary song (1991) that speaks so clearly to the Lord’s Supper. Notice the bridge; “And as He laid down His life, we offer this sacrifice, that we may live just as He died, willing to pay the price…” The feet that bring the good news and the hands that serve are beautiful, but how beautiful is the body of Christ!

“I Am Mine No More” – 683

Though the author and composer of this song are unknown, the message is very clear. Would that we do more than just say, “I am mine no more…”, but that our lives would reflect a change in our priority. When you say something is more important than something else, it’s only proven by your next step. If you are truly no longer concerned about self, have you changed anything specific?

“Savior, Thy Dying Love” – 667

Following the Lord’s Supper and during the passing of the collection plate we’ll sing this hymn from the 1860’s. It serves as a good reminder of the sacrifice (our Savior’s dying love). Notice the last line from the first three verses; “…some offering bring Thee now, something for Thee.”, “…some song to raise or prayer, something for Thee.” “…some wanderer sought and won, something for Thee.” But now read the last line of the fourth verse. “And when Thy face I see, my ransomed soul will be, through all eternity, something for Thee.” You give a few dollars when the collection plate comes around, but what will you give when Monday morning comes around?

“A Beautiful Life” – 570

Before our lesson, join in the spiritual song that boasts a strong tenor/bass echo. As we move into the chorus, the men take the lead, but with all the ‘musical’ excitement we must never miss the message. Can you say you are helping those who are in need? Are you letting your light shine along the way? When was the last time you were willing to lend a helping hand? A good reminder from this song…

“Burdens Are Lifted at Calvary” – 912

This old ‘invitation song’ is replete as the title is sung over and over again. Include the chorus after each verse and the phrase “Burdens are lifted at Calvary” is repeated nine times. So when we sing this song on Sunday we’ll hold the chorus to the end, following all three verses. Just don’t forget that Jesus IS very near.

“His Yoke is Easy” – 612

We’ll close our service with this 1893 spiritual song, admonishing the congregation with the words of Jesus in Matthew 11:29, 30. “Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” When you sing this closing song I hope you believe, “…His service is my sweetest delight, His blessings ever flow.”

1, March 4, 20131, March 4, 2013

We’re Marching and Singing to Zion…Pt 2

As we continue looking at the New Testament examples of singing, notice what Paul says in Ephesians 5:17-21, “Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation (moral looseness); but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, giving thanks for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another in fear of God.”

Have you ever wondered why Paul referenced being ‘drunk with wine’ only then to turn and write about singing? What comparisons can we make with worldly drunkenness and Godly singing? Perhaps the answer comes in looking at the effects of alcohol compared to the effects of God-centered singing. An early stage of drunkenness is referred to as euphoria. In this drunken state the effects that alcohol has on the body and mind might include an increase in self-confidence and sociability, as well as an overall improvement in one’s mood. In addition, the drunkard might temporarily experience a decrease in anxiety. At the surface we would properly conclude that these are positive attributes. But each of us know, and research shows that in this drunken, ‘euphoric’ state, the feelings are short lived and provide a false sense of what is real. Yet I believe we can find these same attributes and experience similar ‘feelings’ when we look at the scripture. Ephesians tells us how we can increase our self-confidence, how to enjoy sweet fellowship (increased sociability), and how to improve our mood. To escape worry and anxiety the Christian won’t look to the bottle…we look to the book. Read Ephesians 5:18, 19 “…but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms, hymns and spiritual songs…” When my heart is right and my mind is focused on the words, the fellowship I have with the saints is stronger when I sing. My mood is focused and my worries are forgotten as I give my heart and voice to praising God. Not filled with ‘spirits,’ but filled with THE Spirit.

Soon we’ll look at one more portion in the series of ‘Marching to Zion’ (part 3). As children of God we must be conscientious of what we’re singing and why we sing. There is so much more to worshiping than just opening our mouths and raising our voices. We’ll discuss in more detail next time…

1, March 1, 20131, February 28, 2013

GIGO…March 3rd

My prayer for those who are reading this to be drawn closer to understanding the purpose we share on Sunday morning. We come together and worship God, we come to offer a sacrifice of praise and to join together as we commemorate our Lord’s death, burial and resurrection. This coming Sunday morning (March 3rd) we’ll examine our hearts and see if what comes out of our heart is reflective of what is going into our mind. We’ll sing on Sunday morning, but will your words reflect your heart…or will you be singing from a routine practiced over the years?

Sunday morning, March 3, 2013

Our sermon topic on Sunday is entitled, “GIGO”, what does that mean? Join us Sunday morning or check out the lesson on Waterview’s website [LINK] Sunday afternoon. Those who are familiar with this website know the following is an account of our order of worship. All song numbers are from the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.

“Holy Ground Medley” – 99, 100 & 101

The editors of our hymnal (Faith & Praise) chose to place the songs In His Presence, Holy Ground (by Beatty) and Holy Ground (by Davis) as a predesigned medley. Many have sung this collection of songs and the message is a powerful reminder of the holiness of God. We begin by focusing on the environment we find when ‘in the presence of God’…comfort, peace and assurance. The medley continues as we recognize being in His presence. Remember Moses (Exodus 3) as he was standing ‘on holy ground.’ Ken Young added the second verse of Beatty’s song when he wrote; “You are holy, God, a perfect and holy God. We will come before You with hearts made clean by Jesus’ blood.” We come to worship our Father, and together we are standing on Holy Ground.

“Why Did My Savior Come to Earth” – 382

The question is asked with this spiritual song, why? Why did Jesus come to earth and choose the birth of a lowly peasant born in a stable? And why would our Savior choose to die such a cruel, painful death and be lifted up for all to see…and scorn? The answer is repeated three times in the chorus (7 times if you count the echo in the refrain) “He loves me so much that He gave His precious life for me…” Now transition to the next song.

“How Deep the Father’s Love” – no book

A contemporary song that isn’t asking the question “How deep is the Father’s love,” but one that is sung to confirm what we already realize. God’s love for us is so deep, and vast we can’t measure it. How great the pain must have been for both the Father and the Son. But the objective was clear, to ‘bring many sons to glory.’ We continue this song as we ‘behold the man upon the cross’ and clearly recognize our sins. Think in your mind back to the mocking voices (Luke 23:35-38) as they stood at the foot of the cross? In poetry we sing, “…ashamed I hear my mocking voice call out among the scoffers.”

Following the Lord’s Supper we’ll revisit the third verse from these two songs. We asked earlier, “Why did my Savior come to earth…” and then again “…Why should I gain from His reward?” Do you remember the next line, “I cannot give an answer, but this I know with all my heart, His wounds have paid my ransom.” Before we conclude this medley, let’s us sing…“Till Jesus comes I sing His praise, and then to glory go…”

“Wonderful Words of Life” – 543

Prior to today’s lesson we’ll stand and sing this familiar melody from the late 1800’s. Philip Bliss authored many songs (10 in the Faith and Praise hymnal), but this particular one captivates me as we sing verse 2, “Christ the blessed one gives to all, wonderful words of life. Sinner, list (listen) to the loving call, wonderful words of life. All so freely given (these wonderful words), wooing us to heaven…” What does it mean to woo something (someone)? One definition; “To entreat, solicit, request…” Notice; the ‘words of life’ are given as an attempt (if you will) to entreat us/call us to heaven. Wonderful Words!

“Is Thy Heart Right with God” – no book

How is your heart? Not physically speaking, but spiritually speaking? Is it right with God? Too often I fear we self-diagnose our life in Christ and come away with faulty information. If my affections (things I hold as most important) are not given up (sacrificed), or if I can’t ‘count all things…but loss’ (for Jesus), then will I ever be right with God? Ask yourself this question and then make a change. Perhaps you need to be washed in the crimson flood…

“Let the Beauty of Jesus Be Seen in Me” – 722

“From the dawn of the morning to close of day…” What do people see in you? How is your example, in both your actions and your words? This song reminds me that I must lay all my gifts at His feet and think carefully about how I act toward others. Can the beauty of Jesus be seen in me?

Join us each and every Sunday morning!

1, February 26, 20131, March 4, 2013

Growing Up…in the Lord!

Perhaps you’ve been asked the question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Little children are often asked this question and the response can be interesting…if not a little comical.

Some little boys might reply with, “When I grow up I want to be a fireman.” In the 70’s it was not uncommon to hear younger boys say they wanted to be an astronaut or a policeman or maybe even president. Actually, growing up in my ‘neck of the woods’, we all wanted to be cowboys when we grew up. If you were to ask the ladies, their response might not be much different. They too have dream of tomorrow with aspirations of what their life will be like. One little girl once told her parents, “When I grow up I want to be a mommy.” We consider our future and wonder what we’ll do tomorrow. As we plan for the unknown, most truly wonder what they will do as they reach that level of accountability. Where will I work, where will I live, what will I become when… ‘I grow up.’

As a junior in college (many years ago), I had my mind set on teaching. I loved every aspect of working with younger minds and imparting some obscure nugget of reason. The responsibility of molding and directing the hearts and minds of children was a challenge I eagerly embraced. However, almost 30 years later, time and circumstances have had a way of altering my path. Though I’m no longer an ‘educator’ by trade, my profession remains the same. I love working with people as they mature and grow stronger. Only today, it’s more of a spiritual growth that I seek to inspire in those who come into my ‘classroom’ of life.

But what about you? As you read this you may be a long time business man (or woman) who has been in the work force for years. Or you might be a young college student still trying to settle your mind on a degree. Some reading this might be retired and still wondering, “What will I be when I grow up?” What ever your station in life, however far you have gone or still have to go, think about making your life more than just a career, a ‘job’, that you do. The apostle Paul wrote an admonition to the young preacher Timothy, “…be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.” II Tim. 4:5 Could you really be an evangelist? Is ministry really your calling? Let me encourage you to do more than just consider it…make that your priority. Know that I am not promoting that you quit your job or drop out of school, but I do think we all need to change our thinking when it comes to what is most important in life. You work to make a living, so you can pay the bills, so you can live your life. But life won’t be worth the living if you don’t live it for God. Where does He fit into your career and your future plans? Does God figure into life at all?

Regardless your degree (college students) or your career I hope we will all realize that in the Lord’s church, we are all called to ‘minister’ to a lost and dying world (Matthew 28). Everything else is temporary. Classes, projects, responsibilities to your employer are important, but God’s desire for you to work in the fold should supersede all that. Work hard and fulfill your obligations for the task at hand, but ask yourself…what will I really be when I grow up?

A Cappella, directed by Keith Lancaster, sings a song about this every issue. Would that we make God our number one objective and teach that to our children. Does the world know who you are or are they still waiting to see what you’ll be ‘when you grow up.’

“Growing up in the Lord” [LINK]

Chorus:
I’m growin’ up in the Lord.
Oh I’m gettin’ stronger; turnin’ back no longer:
I’m growin’ up in the Lord…I’m growin’ up in the Lord.

I make mistakes but that’s part of growin’ up.
Part of growin’ up in the Lord.
His understanding is what I need the most,
I am staying close to His word.

Sheltered from harm when I am safe in his arms
And I am learning to do His will.
Hearing his call although I stumble and fall. I can get up and keep growing still.

Repeat Chorus

Now as I’m growin’ I’m learning what to say, Learning how to walk in the light.
I’m made aware of the devil every day Learning how to handle the fight.

Tempted by wrong, He keeps me ready and strong So I can handle the Tempter’s snare.
Jesus is mine and since he’s there all the time I am protected within His care