Vacation Bible School…Pt. 1

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

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

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

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

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

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

CHORUS:

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

CHORUS:

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

CHORUS:

And how about this one…?

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

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

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

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

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

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

1, June 13, 20141, June 17, 2014

A Letter to My Father…June 15th

What do you remember about your father? Is he still with you, or has he passed away? 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 9 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.

1, June 6, 20141, June 11, 2014

Why Have Graduations?…June 8th

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

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

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

Sunday morning, June 8, 2014

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

“Blessed Be the Lord God Almighty” – 72

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

“The Lord’s My Shepherd” – 134

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

“I Stand Amazed” – 147

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

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

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

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

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

“I’ll Live for Him” – 553

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

“Living By Faith” – 560

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

“Each Step I Take” – 415

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

“Hold to God’s Unchanging Hand” – 613

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

1, June 1, 20141, June 6, 2014

God, Just or Unjust?…June 1st

With all the sincerity of a 5 year old, I remember our youngest looking up and pleading his case, “But it’s not fair! Why does he get to stay up and I have to go to bed?” In the parent-child relationship we understand how some things are ‘just that way.’ Our decisions, as we see it, are justifiable.

We understand that decisions and actions will often be driven by motivations. But what about the day by day events that unfold around us? As we consider our lives and the path we find ourselves walking, is it fair that some seem to have been ‘dealt a hard hand’ while others live a life of ease? Does God make life easier for some but not for others? Join us Sunday morning as we consider; is God just?

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

Sunday morning, June 1, 2014

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

“Love Lifted Me” – 453

With references to Peter walking to Christ on the Sea of Galilee, we sing the basis of this song “…but the Master of the sea heard my despairing cry, from the water’s lifted me now safe am I.” Read those words again, and then notice the text in Matthew chapter 14, verse 30. As Peter began to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me!” Are you drowning in your sin? The Master can lift you up…what a strong message.

“Redeemed” – 458

Is the song of redemption ‘sweet’ to you? This morning we’ll sing, “I am redeemed by blood divine…Glory! Glory! Christ is mine…” But just remember, first you have to ‘resign’ your all to Him.

“We Have Come into His House” – 296

A more tranquil song of worship as we sing of our purpose in coming together, ‘…to forget about ourselves, magnify His name and worship Him.’

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

Can you think of someone in your life you love deeply? How much do you care about them? Would you say it is ‘vast beyond all measure?’ This contemporary song of praise reminds us of the unfathomable love of the Father.

“Jesus, Lover of My Soul” – 807

An old hymn that so effectively fits our message this morning, but notice the four elements of the 3rd verse we must never forget; “Thou, O Christ, art all I want, more than all in Thee I find. 1) Raise the fallen, 2) cheer the faint, 3) heal the sick and 4) lead the blind. Just and holy is Thy name, I am all unrighteousness. Vile and full of sin I am, Thou art full of truth and grace.”

“A Wonderful Savior” – 508

Before our lesson this morning we’ll sing a familiar spiritual song to encourage the hearer and edify the saints. Find your strength in knowing who takes away your burdens and holds you up.

“I Am Resolved” – 948

Just a glimpse out of the corner of your eye can cause you to look away. A flash, a sound, a bleep on the radar can pull our eyes away. But the question is will you linger looking for the passing charms of this world, or will you set your trust in ‘things that are higher, things that are nobler?’ ‘What has ‘allured your sight?’

“To Canaan’s Land I’m On My Way” – 867

As you leave the assembly on Sunday morning, where are you going? I’m not talking about dinner plans, but into eternity, where are you going? Let’s sing about the place where darkness is turned to day and where there will be ‘no parting hand.’ To a place prepared by a just and loving God; To Canaan’s Land!

1, May 23, 20141, May 23, 2014

Jesus Only…May 25th

Some say you do it this way; others say, no, do it like this. How is one to know what is right and what’s wrong? Could it be both are OK? Perhaps in some situations it doesn’t matter how the job gets done as long as it gets done. However, can the same be said about my understanding of the Bible? Does it matter how I live or what I believe when it comes to eternity in heaven?

Many have said it doesn’t matter how you come to God, just as long as you come. Is that true? Perhaps we should look at the words of God’s Son as Jesus very clearly said, “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life, no one comes to the Father except through Me.” John 14:6. Join us Sunday morning when we’ll look at this idea and consider, Only Jesus!

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

Sunday morning, May 25, 2014

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

“The Steadfast Love of the Lord” – 123

Taken from Lamentations chapter 3 we read, “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for Him.” Truly we sing a Psalm as we begin this morning!

“My Hope is Built on Nothing Less” – 538

What do you hope in? Is it the world? Do you find comfort in this life? The Christian knows that hope comes in Jesus Christ and Him alone. ‘On Christ the solid Rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand…”

“Lamb of God” – 176

“My Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God.” The sacrifice for my sin washes away all my iniquities so that I can come into His presence. We’ll remember this sacrifice as we remember His death, burial and resurrection.

“There is a Redeemer” – 287

God’s people singing…”Thank You, O my Father, for giving us Your Son…” We sing of the Redeemer this morning, but don’t let the world persuade you to ‘put Him out of your mind’ the other 6 days of the week. Because one day we will all, ‘stand in glory…?’ Let’s be ready and serve our King forever.

“Only in Thee” – 492

How do you handle troubles when they ‘molest?’ When temptations oppress you and your life seems to be ‘tossed on the sea,’ do you have a guide? Some trust in their power or position or just hope to make it through. We will sing about and look toward that “…sweet pavilion of rest, only, dear Lord, in Thee.”

“Wonderful Words of Life” – 543

As Peter, James and John stood with Jesus and saw Him with Moses and Elijah, they were amazed. Wanting to recognize all three, they were corrected when God said this about Jesus, “…listen to Him!” Notice verse 8 and the words we’ll sing following the reading; “And lifting up their eyes, they (the disciples) saw no one, except Jesus Himself alone.” Verse 2: “Christ, the blessed One gives to all, wonderful words of Life; sinner, list (listen) to the loving call, wonderful words of Life. Verse 3: Jesus, only Savior, sanctify forever…beautiful words, wonderful words, wonderful words of Life.”

“No Not One” – 396

No one can compare to Jesus Christ. In His own words He said, “Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly in heart and you shall find rest unto your souls.” Can any compare with Christ? “No, Not One!”

“Thou Art the Way” – 280

How do I come to God? Understand Christ’s words in John 14, “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life…” So we sing, “Thou are the Way: to Thee Alone we must flee from sin…Thou Art the Truth: Thy Word alone imparts true wisdom… Thou art the Life: the open tomb proclaims You the Victor!” Read the song, sing the words with understanding!

“Have Thine Own Way” – 552

This song finds us calling for Christ to mold me into His will! Knowing that only Jesus is the Way; are you yielding to Him, will you be whiter than snow and give Him “absolute sway?” (complete rule of your life) We’ll sing and He’ll wait for your answer.

“Where the Gates Swing Outward Never” – 864

Just a few more days…a few more years and then we’ll ‘wake to see Him!’ Are you ready? Does your heart burn to be with Him in heaven? Is there a yearning for that day when we’ll never more sigh (or die)? We sing, “I’ll exchange my cross for a starry crown where the gates swing outward never; at His feet I’ll lay every burden down and with Jesus reign forever.” But only if we follow Jesus…Only!

1, May 15, 20141, May 15, 2014

Would You Choose to be Hated?…May 18th

If you had the choice of walking down the road where everyone loved and admired you, or walking the path of rejection and hatred…which road would you choose? Some say that’s easy, of course I’ll take the more pleasant path. Love and respect always trumps rejection, doesn’t it? Why would anyone want to be hated?

Paul tells the church in Corinth to consider their ‘calling’ (I Cor. 1:26), that they might not be wise according to the world, because God has chosen the foolish things to shame the wise. He continues reminding us that God chooses the weak to shame the strong. But notice Paul’s admonition in verse 28, “and the base (lowest) things of the world and the despised (hated) God has chosen…” So maybe we should ask ourselves, would you choose to be hated?

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

Sunday morning, May 18, 2014

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

“To Christ Be Loyal and Be True” – 736

Opening with a song of admonition we encourage each other to be faithful in our walk with Christ. To be noble in our service. Together we strive to be true to our Lord; to Christ, the Lord, be true…why? We sing the answer in the chorus; “…for He will go with you and help you through your conflicts…”

“A Hill Called Mount Calvary” – 373

How do you handle things that don’t seem to make sense in this life? Reject them and go on, search for truth and understanding, or believe? “There are things as we travel this earth’s shifting sands that transcend all the reason of man; but the things that matter the most in this world, they can never be held in our hand. I believe in a hill called Mount Calvary…” When it comes to the cross of Christ…what do you believe?

“The Old Rugged Cross” – 313

Following the thought between this song and the one we’ll sing just before it; “…and when time has surrendered and earth is no more, I’ll still cling to the old rugged cross.” “…so I’ll cherish the old rugged cross, till my trophies at last I lay down.” Putting our mind on our Savior’s death, burial and resurrection you can’t help but think of the cross.

“Does Jesus Care” – 507

A song title with a question many have asked through the centuries. With so much pain and sorrow; with troubles and sickness and war and death…does God see our suffering? Does Jesus care? We look no further then the chorus of this spiritual song written in 1901, “O yes, He cares, I know He cares…”

“Follow Me” – 395

What will it take to follow our Savior? Jesus said to His disciples in Matthew 16, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me.” We receive that same admonition and sing the same sentiment; “…Be faithful, weary pilgrim, the morning I can see, Just lift your cross and follow close to Me.”

“What Shall It Be?” – 944

We all have a choice; to accept God’s will and give our lives completely to Him, or not. It’s really pretty simple. So the answer comes clearly to you and me…”What Shall It Be?” What is your decision, not just today, but for the rest of your life; what will you do with Jesus?

“God Bless You, Go with God” – 752

No song gives me more edification, it seems, than this assurance that brothers and sisters are singing “…in spite of all the lies that some may hurl, Christ is the only hope of all the world; God bless you, go with God.’ That should be our daily prayer for each other.

1, May 8, 20141, May 8, 2014

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 professional 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!’

“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 book

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?’

1, May 6, 20141, May 6, 2014

Praying for…

In 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 God’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.

1, May 2, 20141, May 2, 2014

Die Empty…May 4th

What a helpless feeling as your car sputters to a stop, leaving you to look down and see the gas gauge on EMPTY. With nothing left, your gas tank is dried up. It’s one thing to accidentally ‘run out of gas,’ but it is something entirely different to purposely drain your tank. So the question is, who would do such a thing? Why would you empty your tank? Could this be something we aspire for…to die on empty?

Robert Taylor, associate minister with Waterview church of Christ, will bring our Sunday morning lesson. Let’s join him as we look at Christ’s life (and death) to see if we can understand why Jesus, would ’empty Himself.’ Philippians 2:5-8

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

Sunday morning, May 4, 2014

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

“I Stand in Awe” 96

“You are beautiful beyond description. Too marvelous for words. Too wonderful for comprehension, like nothing ever seen or heard. Who can grasp Your infinite wisdom, who can fathom the depth of Your love? You are beautiful beyond description, majesty enthroned above…And I stand in awe of You!” A beautiful, contemporary song (hymn) of praise. But I encourage you to do more than physically stand in awe of Him. In your life live so that others know He is awesome in power and might. Live so that nothing else compares to His majesty. Sing this song to God, but honor Him with your life.

“I Am Thine, O Lord” – 666

This hymn (we sing to the Lord) is one that dates back to 1875 as Fanny J. Crosby penned these timeless words. Notice the last phrase in the second verse; “…Let my soul look up with a steadfast hope, and my will be lost in Thine.” How blessed would we be if our will was one with God’s will? The Christian knows it should be, but is it? Let Him ‘draw you nearer’ to His precious bleeding side…

“Beneath the Cross of Jesus” – 314

As we prepare our minds for this moment of remembering the Lord’s death, burial and resurrection let’s poetically (and gladly) take our stand beneath His cross. Notice the third verse, ‘Upon that cross of Jesus mine eye at times can see the very dying form of One who suffered there for me…’ As you look upon the cross, through tears of the heart, realize His death was for you. Now, will you confess His glorious love, and your own worthlessness? You can see more clearly from beneath the cross of Jesus.

“I Gave My Life for Thee” – 354

As we give back during the time of collection let’s sing about how He gave to us first. Each verse focuses on what Christ did for us. He gave His life; He left heaven’s glory; He suffered agony and He brings us the free gift of eternal life. What have you given for the cause of Christ? What have you abandoned to follow Him? Do you suffer for His name? Will you bring any gift to Christ? Just remember…He gave His life for thee!

“Poured Out Like Wine” – 655

Paul wrote to the church in Philippi and said, “…even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all.” Philippians 2:17 This gives us the basis for this spiritual song. Paul was willing to be poured out (emptied). Will we do the same?

“Our God, He Is Alive” – 23

Before our lesson this morning we’ll sing an old favorite. But don’t be drawn into singing it by rote. This spiritual song calls us to praise our God with every voice. The men take the lead in the refrain while the ladies echo. Notice what the ladies sing “…From dust, our God created man…” God created Adam from dust, but the woman from Adam’s side. She sings about the man’s creation. Nice poetic touch. He is indeed, “the Great I Am!”

“All to Jesus I Surrender” – 662

Not under compulsion, but willingly do we sing this invitation song? “I surrender all!” Really? Can you sing that with a clear conscience? Do you (will you) give everything over to God? Whether this is poetic or if you truly aspire it personally, one day we will all bow at His feet and surrender to Him. Might as well strive for that now. “All to Jesus I surrender, all to Him I freely give. I will ever love and trust Him, in His presence daily live…”

“Days of Elijah” – no book

Will you sing, have you sung this contemporary, spiritual song? Notice the Biblical references that are woven throughout; “These are the days of Elijah…” as he stood up for God against the prophets of Baal. The days of Moses striving to restore God’s people to righteousness. The days of Ezekiel as God raised an army from dry bones and David as we rebuild our bodies (temples) to praise God. All the while we see trials, famine, darkness and the ‘sword.’ But take courage, salvation comes through Jesus. We sing Revelation 1:7 as we join in the chorus, “Behold, He is coming with the clouds…”

1, April 27, 20141, April 27, 2014

The Life of Moses…LTC Style

L.T.C. (Leadership Training for Christ) has been a focus for members of the Lord’s church for 25 years. A branch off the Lads to Leaders which began in 1968, L.T.C. has been preparing our young men to speak, lead singing and read scripture. Our young ladies learn how to lead women’s devotionals, sign for the hearing impaired and teach younger children. (Though the boys can do the signing and teaching challenge as well!) And this doesn’t even include chorus, drama, puppets, service challenge and a myriad of other areas for training.

Perhaps the primary focus for those who find L.T.C. (or Lads) a focal point in their year would be the preparation that goes into Bible Bowl. In this ‘event’ students from 3rd -12th grades study a pre-selected section of scripture, then take an oral test to determine their retention of the material covered. Some who dislike tests avoid this event, but to others it is a challenge to see if they can learn, remember and recall the scriptures.

Below are a few of the test questions from L.T.C. 2014, “Called Out”, as we studied the life of Moses (see Exodus, Numbers and Deuteronomy).

1. Where was the blood of the Passover lamb to be placed? (Ex. 12:22)
a. the door frame b. the roof of the house c. the ground d. on the table

2. As long as Moses’ hands were held up, the Israelite army was _________ the battle. (Ex. 17:11)
a. escaping b. losing c. winning d. surviving

3. How many days did the men, sent by Moses, explore Canaan? (Num. 13:25)
a. 4 days b. 12 days c. 40 days d. 60 days

4. When Moses came down from Mount Sinai, he was not aware that his face was what? (Ex. 34:29)
a. darkened b. radiant c. pale d. saddened

5. Who was asked to put a curse on Israel? (Num. 22:10-11)
a. Balak b. Baal c. Balaam d. Bashan

6. How many men went to battle against the Midianites? (Num. 31:4)
a. all of them b. 10,000 men of war c. only the Levites d. 1,000 from each tribe

7. What did God have Moses write down and teach to the Israelites? (Deut. 31:19)
a. their history b. a song c. the scroll of law d. words from the stone tablet

8. What plague did Pharaoh’s magicians call ‘the finger of God?’ (Ex. 8:16-19)
a. the water to blood b. the gnats c. the frogs d. the locust

9. Manna tasted like something made from _______ ______? (Num. 11:8)
a. unleavened yeast b. wheat flour c. raisins & figs d. olive oil

10. In Moses’s final blessing, which tribe was referred to as a lion’s cub? (Deut. 33:22)
a. Reuben b. Levi c. Dan d. Benjamin

This is just a sampling of the 100 questions the young men and women were given to answer this year at our local L.T.C. convention in Dallas, Texas. Several performed remarkably well and received high marks. And to be honest, others struggled. But knowing the answers to the questions is only half the battle. When we learn from God’s word that we have been ‘called out,’ we’ll know better how to serve our God and King. Leadership Training for Christ is a great experience, but applying the lessons learned from a study of God’s Word is worth it’s weight in gold, silver and bronze.