Faded Memories…but Eternal Fellowship!

College days in the small west-Texas town of Lubbock seem like a life time ago. But the memories created with that group of men and women on that small campus will be etched in my mind forever. The Acappella Chorus under the direction of Dr. Wayne Hinds was my main stay for four years. Studying in the Education Department with Dr. Joyce Hardin, and the Bible Department with Dr. Leon Crouch seem like a memory of days long ago at ‘good ole LCC.’ But there was another group that captured a good share of my time on this campus. A group of men who shared a unique fellowship together; a social club by the name of KOINONIA. We were proud of our club and the legacy we shared. On our jerseys and on our pledge badges we worn the Greek name for fellowship. We understood the definition to be simply, ‘Christian fellowship (sharing mutual interest) or communion with God.’ And that was our objective, our goal… communion with God and with one another.

But now those old shirts have faded, and the miles have come between many of us. And unfortunately, the fellowship for many of us has failed too. Some, have left the faith they once cherished while others, after re-examining their belief, lost the ‘shared mutual interest’ of other Christians. Yet for those of us who still hold fast to a true communion with God and His people, will forever trust Him and follow the pattern set forth in His Word. We have maintained a walk with Christ that doesn’t turn to the right or to the left (Deuteronomy 28:14); a narrow walk with Him (Matthew 7:14).

Unfortunately, some assume since this walk is narrow and there’s not much give (turning from side to side) that they’re alone and walking without support. A feeling even Elijah felt in I Kings 19, “I have been very zealous for the Lord, the God of host; for the sons of Israel have forsaken Your covenant, torn down Your altars and killed Your prophets with the sword. And I alone am left…” With desperation staring him in the face, Elijah was certain his ‘fellowship’ was gone. But we must never forget that we have an enormous cloud of witnesses who have passed ahead of us. There is a fellowship of believers who walk daily in the truth of God’s word. But even if there were no other hand to hold, no other strong arm to lean on…we have fellowship with Christ. I John 1:3 provides the basis of our assurance; “…what we have seen and heard we proclaim to you also, so that you too may have fellowship with us; and indeed our fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ.”

“What a fellowship, what a joy divine, leaning on the everlasting arms;
What a blessedness, what a peace is mine, leaning on the everlasting arms.

Oh, how sweet to walk in this pilgrim way, leaning on the everlasting arms;
Oh, how bright the path grows from day to day, leaning on the everlasting arms.

What have I to dread, what have I to fear, leaning on the everlasting arms;
I have blessed peace with my Lord so near, leaning on the everlasting arms.

Leaning on Jesus, leaning on Jesus, safe and secure from all alarms…
Leaning on the everlasting arms.”

Where is your fellowship? Who will you lean on during the dark days of dread? This world may offer you some fond memories and deep treasures, but never lose the ‘mutual interest’ of the One who can make your life worth living. Find KOINONIA with the Father and with Christ’s church. Look to Him, and never be alone.

1, January 31, 20141, January 31, 2014

The Road To…? Feb. 2nd

If there’s one thing you can be sure of, when you’re traveling down a road, you’ll always get to the end. Though the road may not end where you want it to, it will eventually stop. While we’re traveling on the road (and we are all traveling), the question we must answer is simple; “Where are you going?”

Ira Stanphill once penned these words, “I travel down a lonely road…”. The road of life, at times, can seem pretty lonely. But if the truth be known, many are walking down a road that is anything but lonely. With numberless travelers and wide lanes it doesn’t seem logical anyone could be lonely. However, there is another road which is narrow and supports only a few. Which road are you traveling on? Is it congested and bustling, or is it somewhat lonely. If you can answer that question, you might know where your road is headed. You might be on, The Road To …

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

Sunday morning, February 2, 2014

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

“Praise Him! Praise Him!” – 300

With energy and a lift in your voice, this song of praise provides the singer an opportunity to ‘…tell of His excellent greatness.’ Join in the welcome Sunday morning as we sing of our Blessed Redeemer!

“Holy Ground” – 100 & 101

This contemporary medley is about 35 years old ( written in 1982 to be exact) and yet reflects the words found in Exodus and Joshua. In both accounts the ‘angel of the Lord’ (Exodus) and ‘the captain of the Lord’s host’ (Joshua) appeared to Moses and Joshua respectfully, and gave the command, “…the place on which you are standing is holy ground.” Moses explained this idea more clearly as he spoke to his brother Aaron, “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.’” Leviticus 10:3. This morning, as we come before Him, notice…we are standing on holy ground.

“O Listen to the Wondrous Story” – 496

Taking the refrain of this song we’ll use it to prepare ourselves for the Lord’s Supper. Notice what the ladies will be singing; “Who saved us from eternal loss! What did He do? Where is He now?” The beauty of this chorus comes as the men respond to each question; (Ladies) “Who saved us (not a question, but an exclamation)…(Men) Who (else) but God’s Son upon the cross? (Ladies) What did He do? (Men) He died for you? (Ladies) Where is He now? (Men) Believe it thou (translated; you’d better believe it) (all voices) In heaven interceding.’

“Be Still and Know” – 31

As we wait for the contribution plates to pass around the auditorium, we’ll fill our thoughts with scripture as we sing Psalm 46:10 “Cease striving (be still) and know that I am God.”

“Follow Me” – 395

As noted in the opening paragraph, this spiritual song reminds us of the road we’re called to walk, a ‘lonely road.’ But it will take some interruption on your part as you sing. Notice verse three; “O Jesus if I die upon a foreign field some day, ‘twould be (it would be) no more than love demands, no less could I repay, ‘no greater love hath mortal man than for a friend to die,’ (John 15:13) These are the words He gently spoke to me, ‘if just a cup of water I place within your hand then just a cup of water is all that I demand,’ (what ever I can give is all I’m asking for in return) But if by death to living they can Thy glory see (would that some live for Christ in my physical death…per the first line), I’ll take my cross (my mission to serve) and follow close to Thee.”

“Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus” – 648

Before our lesson we’ll sing this stirring song of encouragement from the pre-Civil War era. Interestingly enough, this song of soldier’s was penned just three years before our country’s deadliest war. But the call is clear, not for Union soldiers or soldiers from the Confederate ranks. Instead, soldier’s of the cross… stand up for Jesus!

“What Will You Do with Jesus?” – 926

Our invitation song is a reflection of the last hours of Christ as He stood on trial before Pilate. Pilate asked the question to the Jewish leaders 2000 years ago, and yet it still echoes in our minds. “Then what shall I do with Him…?” (Mark 15:12). How you answer the question will determine where your road is taking you…

“Jesus Paid It All” – 316

The child of God understands this song and can sing with full voice; “Gone is all my debt of sin, a great change is brought within, and to live I now begin, risen from the fall…” But notice the last part of the second verse, our focus for the morning. “Making His the debt I owed, Freedom true He has bestowed; so I’m singing on the road to my home above…” Take a minute to consider your traveling and look at your path, The Road To … !

1, November 14, 2013

Learning How to Walk…Nov. 17th

Many parents cherish the time when they watch their child take those first steps. The thrill of knowing their baby is becoming more independent is both a joy as well as an eye-opener. Physical families and church families alike are excited as the ‘babes’ learn to walk. With the awareness of this new found skill comes the understand that they will eventually be taking on more responsibilities.

For the past two years, Patrick & Brandon’a Garcia have been working as Waterview’s missionaries in Cuernavaca, Mexico. Charged with the task of spreading the gospel in Mexico, this young couple has worked hard to reach, teach and baptize almost 30 souls in the last 24 months. Sunday morning Patrick will present his ‘report’ and share with us a message of how this young congregation is…’learning how to walk.’

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

Sunday morning, November 17, 2013

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

“Blessed Be the Lord God Almighty” – 72

Our opening song is a ‘hymn’ as we sing these words to God; it’s as if we’re singing a prayer. Notice the words, “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.”

“Walk with Me” – 394

As we consider ‘walking’ it only seems appropriate to note the words of this hymn (again, sung to HIM). The prayer is for God to walk with us through this life. The author offers a two step progression; 1) walk with me, and 2) talk with me. But we would lose the message if we fail to notice the last line in the chorus. “Let me follow in Your footsteps that trod the shore of Galilee, let me learn to pray like He did in the Garden of Gethsemane; Take my hand, take my hand, teach me Lord to understand, all my duty, all the beauty of Your love.”

“I Come to the Garden Alone” – 595

A song written by Austin Mile 100 years ago (1912) that recalls Christ in the garden. But what garden and who is source of these words. For years we have sung, “I come to the garden alone, while the dew is still on the roses; and the voice I hear, falling on my ear, the Son of God discloses…” But who is speaking? Austin Miles wrote this song as if Mary Magdalene were speaking. As you sing consider the 20th chapter of John while Mary stood outside the tomb weeping. And remember the chorus as you daily walk with Christ.

“Here I Am to Worship” – no book

A contemporary hymn (song sung to God) that proclaims the reason for our coming together to worship. Jesus told us that He is the Light of the World (John 8:12). Knowing who He is and what Has done for us should cause all Christians to humbly bow, and gratefully say, “Here I am to worship…here I am to bow down…here I am to say that You’re my God. You’re all together lovely, all together worthy, all together wonderful to me!”

“Where He Leads I’ll Follow” – 417

This old spiritual song (1885) announces our resolve to “…follow Jesus every day.” If He is my example, and if I listen to His loving words, ‘Coming follow Me…’, you should ask yourself, how will I follow Him? The only obvious answer is to get up and walk. We can never follow someone as long as we sit on the sidelines and watch. Learning how to walk implies that I’m going to be using that skill to go somewhere. Jesus is leading…are you willing to follow.

“Trust and Obey” – 915

Our invitation song is best summed up in the last line of the chorus, ‘…for there’s no other way…’ Where are you walking today? How will you face the shadows and burdens of this life? Whether we’re sitting at His feet listening and learning, or working in His kingdom (walking beside Him), we must remember to take each step trusting and obeying.

“Just a Closer Walk with Thee” – 406

“I am weak, but Thou art strong. Jesus, keep me from all wrong. I’ll be satisfied as long as I walk, dear Lord, close to Thee.” There are times when we just want to be alone. No one to hurry us, no one to push us, no one to ‘hold us accountable.’ But as we consider our life in Christ, realize distance from Him makes us weak. Learning to walk is exciting, but I can’t make it alone. Reach out and hold His hand. He will steady you as you’re learning how to walk.

1, August 26, 20131, August 26, 2013

A Light in the Darkness

When the night is dark and the moon is black (a new moon), the absence of light makes it hard to get around. Objects are only shadows and often hard to distinguish. The simplest of forms are distorted and the ability to make things out is complicated. It’s a feeling of being blind without the permanence of the disability. But consider those who are blind; unable to see shades of color not to mention shapes or forms. Blind and unable to maneuver easily or without assistance. Light is too often an under appreciated element. Could you be comfortable if you were always in the dark?

In the last few verses of the 10th chapter of Mark, Jesus and His disciples are leaving Jericho with a large crowd of people. As they are walking, a man by the name of Bartimaeus was begging and calling out for Jesus. An important note here, this beggar is blind. He’s not with the crowd, as a matter of fact, as he calls out for Jesus the crowd is ‘hushing’ him into silence. But Bartimaeus is so determined to ‘see’ the son of David and calls out even louder. Remember, he can’t see, he’s blind, and he’s calling for the Savior.

Perhaps it’s not surprising that Jesus calls the man to Him, but what I find to be interesting is what I read next, Mark 10:49, 50…“So they called to the blind man, ‘Cheer up! On your feet! He’s calling you.’Throwing his cloak aside, he jumped to his feet and came to Jesus.” He was called and he came; he was blind, but he came. Many call on the name of Jesus, but few are willing to ‘throw’ this world aside, ‘jump to their feet’ and come to Him. Remember, he’s blind. He can’t see…but he goes to the Messiah. Did some one lead him? Did he follow the sound of Christ’s voice, or did he just know where Jesus was. Regardless of how he got there, his focus was getting to Jesus even though he was blind. And then Jesus asked the obvious question; perhaps because He wanted to hear it from the man himself. Verse 51 records Jesus saying, “What do you want me to do for you?” Without hesitation the blind man said, “Rabbi, I want to see.” Completing this chapter you’ll read that Jesus says to Bartimaeus, “Go, your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road.” (NIV84) Bartimaeus was ‘in the dark’ so he called to Jesus, and the “Light of the world” opened his eyes.

John records in his 8th chapter of the gospel of John, that Jesus said to the people, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” Bartimaeus was walking in the darkness until he called to Jesus, came to Jesus and then followed Jesus. But what does that mean to me? There are no shadows in my life; my eyes are open and I can see just fine…or can I? When we admit that we’re ‘in the dark’ and we can’t see, then we’ll understand how much we need the light. Jesus knew that the world would reject Him. He knew the nations would be comfortable in their blindness and refuse to call out for help.

Listen to this version of a familiar, contemporary song that tells us how the light of the world came to a dark and dying world, and then hear what the Christian’s response will be:

“Light of the world you stepped down into darkness, Opened my eyes, let me see
Beauty that made this heart adore You Hope of my life spent with You

And here I am to worship, Here I am to bow down, Here I am to say that You’re my God
You’re altogether lovely, altogether worthy, altogether wonderful to me

King of all days Oh, so highly exalted glorious in heaven above.
Humbly You came to the earth You created all for love’s sake became poor

And here I am to worship, Here I am to bow down, Here I am to say that You’re my God
You’re altogether lovely, altogether worthy, altogether wonderful to me

I’ll never know how much it cost
To see my sin upon that cross…”

We are called to the Light and we see because Christ was willing to ‘step down’ to us. He humbled Himself and paid the cost for our salvation. We might think we can see clearly in this world, but without ‘the Light’ we’re walking around in the shadows. The darkness of this life is more crippling then many realize, but how many will call to Him, come to Him and ultimately follow Him?

1, August 20, 20131, August 20, 2013

Whose Hand are You Holding?

As the congregation spilled out into the foyer, brothers and sisters in Christ were visiting as they slowly headed toward the exits. There was no sense of urgency, but rather the sound of hope wafted through the air as adults and children alike laughed and visited with the early Sunday morning crowd.

This particular Sunday was no different than the hundreds that had taken place before and many more that were to come. Each one played out on a weekly basis and sharing a similar feeling of family unity. The busyness of the day wasn’t lost in a frenzied stampede to the doors. People, young and old, lingered as they enjoyed the company of fellow Christians. And to a small, 4 year old boy, this weekly forest of legs was nothing for me to shy away from. We were a family, a comfortable environment centered around our Heavenly Father. My parents had taught me this concrete principle from the day I could understand their words of instruction. Following our Father’s example, we will always be a family of love.

On this particular Sunday morning as I dodged ‘tree trunks’ of corduroy and zipping passed the ladies swaying skirts, I was looking for a familiar hand. One that perfectly held my small, child-like grip; and my granddad’s hand was unmistakable. Years of hard labor had left his hands rugged and strong, yet also offered to me a stabilizing and comforting grasp.

In short order I saw his large, unmistakable hand at his side, and without hesitation I reached up and took a firm grip. We walked for a while, taking in the excitement of the morning. There was no hurry. Slowly we made our way across the carpeted hallway. As we walked I waited. Surely my granddad would pick me up to save my steps. Surely he would lift me up and provide that assurance a child needs. But we walked on. As we walked I lifted my gaze and peered into the face of a man who wasn’t my granddad. All along I thought I knew who was holding my hand. From the moment we grasped hands, I was sure I was holding the steadfast, safe hand of my granddad. Though I was safe in the hands of this older Christian I wasn’t aware of whose hand I held.

My kids are growing up faster than I would have ever imagined. Our oldest son, Logan, is prepared to start his 2nd year at Freed Hardeman University. Before this month is over our second child, Emili ,will be starting her first year there. Dillon, our youngest, will be an only child in the Bruce household this fall. Last year as we prepared to leave Logan in Tennessee, I struggled with that transition. My oldest was growing up and moving on. Life was changing. Now my little girl is doing the same. She has grown up from that sweet, curly haired angel to a strong, mature young Christian lady. Life keeps moving on…

Last year as our oldest moved out on his own, I came to focus on the message of the song by Warren Roberts, “God Bless You, Go with God”. And Emili, that prayer is still my prayer for you as well. But in addition, I want you encourage you to think about the words written by Ira Stanpill in the late 1950’s. She penned the following:

1…I don’t know about tomorrow; I just live from day to day.
I don’t borrow from its sunshine for its skies may turn to gray.
I don’t worry o’er the future, for I know what Jesus said.
And today I’ll walk beside Him, for He knows what lies ahead.

Chorus: Many things about tomorrow I don’t seem to understand
But I know who holds tomorrow and I know who holds my hand.

2…Every step is getting brighter as the golden stairs I climb;
Every burden’s getting lighter, every cloud is silver-lined.
There the sun is always shining, there no tear will dim the eye;
At the ending of the rainbow where the mountains touch the sky.

Chorus:

3…I don’t know about tomorrow; it may bring me poverty.
But the one who feeds the sparrow, is the one who stands by me.
And the path that is my portion may be through the flame or flood;
But His presence goes before me and I’m covered with His blood.

Chorus:

Emili, please remember that as you walk through this life you will have lots of questions. Questions like; ‘Why are they treating me like this? How can he do that to me? Why would she say something like that?’ There are times when people will disappoint you. At the same time, there will be days when you feel like you’re on ‘Cloud 9.’ Nothing could go wrong and everything is going right. Either way, during either day, consider who’s hand you are holding. Sometimes the hand you hold will appear to be the right one. It will look good, feel right and treat you just like you expect it to. But there is one hand (besides mine) that you need to reach out to take hold of and never let go. His hand will protect you and shield you in these tender moments when you’re learning to make it on your own. You know who I’m talking about, and even though you don’t know what your tomorrow holds, rest assured in knowing that He holds your tomorrow. As you hold your Savior’s hand remember this. Your mother and I are not far away, because…we’re holding His hand too.

1, July 12, 20131, July 12, 2013

The Good Samerican…July 14th

Jesus tells the story of a man who was traveling on the road to Jericho only to be ‘mugged’ by highway robbers. Being stripped of all he had and left for dead (literally) the man is at the mercy of those who pass by as they too travel the road. You know how the parable goes and the cast of characters. And most likely you’ve considered which one you would be.

Most would like to say that in the circumstances described in Christ’s parable we’d follow the lead of the man from Samaria. But have you considered what it would take to truly help someone who is broken and bleeding? Would you walk across the road for your neighbor or are you ‘too busy?’ Here in America we live a good life and pretty much ‘want for nothing.’ We know lots of good American’s, but it might take some uncomfortable steps if we are to act like the good Samaritan.

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

Sunday morning, July 14, 2013

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

“Hallelujah, Praise Jehovah” -3

Pick up your bible and turn to Psalm chapter 148. This song we’ll be singing is indeed a ‘psalm’ and is almost a word-for-word account from the chapter. From the hills and mountains to the beast and cattle, we sing this song of praise. Whether you see yourself as young man or a maiden we must all be praising God. Don’t let the birds that in the heavens fly out sing your praise!

“For the Beauty of the Earth” – 67

Consider this first verse, “For the beauty of the earth, for the beauty of the skies, for the love which from our birth over and around us lies: Lord of all to Thee we raise this our sacrifice of praise.” Do you think this praise is for our physical birth or our spiritual birth? The love that surrounds us (over and above) comes from God. Makes you think doesn’t it?

“I Sing Praises” – 97

A ‘contemporary song’ that is simple in verse. We’ll conclude this medley of ‘praise songs because our God’s name, ‘…is great and greatly to be praised.’ Hallelujah! Praise Jehovah…

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

We’ll turn our minds to the cross and Christ sacrifice using this contemporary song reminding us of the love of God. The last verse is one of striking value to me…“I will not boast in anything; no gifts no power no wisdom. But I will boast in Jesus Christ, His death and resurrection…” Quoting Paul in Galatians 6:14 “…may it never be that I would boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ…”

“I’ll Live for Him” – 553

Between the bread and the fruit of the vine we’ll softly sing the third (often omitted) verse. “O Thou who died on Calvary…” Many have missed the point of emotion in our songs. We don’t sing to serve ourselves or those who are listening, we sing to glorify and edify the family of God. In my humble opinion, the heart is more important than the voice.

“Sweet Adoration” – 253

Where do you turn for comfort in times of trouble? How do face the frustrations of this world and temptations that seem to be endless? Try this…come to the Savior, give Him your heart-felt praise and adoration. As you give your all to adoration, little is left for focusing on your trials. Admiration and adoration are essential elements when we recognize our Savior.

“To Love Someone More Dearly” – 636

We all have a job to do in this life. Some are willing to immerse themselves wholly into their work. Others just ‘get the job done.’ But there is one task we need to make a priority in our life; to love someone more dearly! To help a wandering child who’s lost or even just to ponder over something that is good and worthy of our time. Our task might be as simple as praying or smiling. The man from Samaria would have sung this song with full conviction.

“A Beautiful Life” – 570

This is a strong spiritual song with a full bass lead in the chorus. But what do we mean, ‘…life’s evening sun is sinking low…’, are we really talking about death in this upbeat, ‘exciting to sing’ song? Certainly, when life is over, we will meet our Creator and be held accountable for our deeds. Are you one who is trying to lift a traveler’s load? As you strive to be a child of God, remember, your ‘…life must shine along the way.’

“Wonderful Story of Love” – 286

Not a typical invitation song, but when you listen to what we’re saying I think you’ll agree. “Sinner, O won’t you believe it (the wonderful story of love)?” Through His love, the wonderful story of love, Jesus continues to call us to come to Him, since the dawn of creation even until today.

“Let the Lower Lights Be Burning” – 642

I’ve always enjoyed this old spiritual song about shining our light to the lost world. The imagine is clear as we consider the responsible we have in reaching out to those who are bruised and bleeding. The traveler on the road or the sailor on the sea are bound to face difficult times. How willing are we to shine our light, walk across the path and offer them a Savior! The good Samaritan did!

1, April 19, 20131, April 19, 2013

Crossing the Finish Line…April 21st

Monday afternoon, April 15th, our country suffered yet another ‘terrorist’ attack. As the runners neared the finish line of the Boston Marathon, a bomb shattered the lives of hundreds and thousands of people. Even while we are ‘running the race’ and trying to finish strong, tragedy can strike at our hearts. But I encourage the reader to turn to God, and worship.

This Sunday morning, April 21st, we will talk about another finish line. The one that we all will cross as life comes to a close. Our lesson is designed to draw us closer to thinking about how we are running the race of life. No anticipation of explosions and surprises, but we are all running toward the finish line.

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

Sunday morning, April 21, 2013

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

“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 verse referencing Christ 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… “O how marvelous! O how wonderful! Is my Savior’s love for me.”

“I Sing Praises” – 97

Written almost 25 years ago, this contemporary song is basic in format. With the title being the first verse, the Christian offers a hymn to our Lord. “I sing praises to Your name, O Lord, praises to Your name…for Your name is great and greatly to be praised.” The Psalmist writes, “I will praise You among the nations.” (Psalm 18:49)

“In Christ Alone” – no book

Consider this song of admonition as we prepare our minds to commemorate our Lord’s death, burial and resurrection. As verse one consist of recognizing our Cornerstone, solid ground and Comforter, verse two takes us from His birth to His crucifixion. Those who know this song cherish the third verse. As we begin singing softly of His burial, our voices ‘burst forth’ as we sing of His resurrection. The final verse gives us the assurance of our security in Christ as we sing, ‘No power of hell, no scheme of man can ever pluck me from His hand…”

“Beneath the Cross of Jesus” – 314

For this morning’s worship service, we’ll sing only the 3rd and 4th verses of this spiritual song. As we pause between the bread and the fruit of the vine, together we’ll look ‘Upon that cross of Jesus…the very dying form of One who suffered there for me…” As we continue singing this verse ask yourself if your heart is indeed smitten with tears when you consider His glorious love and our (my own) worthlessness.

“Consider Him” – 593

Not necessarily a familiar psalm, but as we sing, we’ll be singing scripture. In Hebrews 12:1-3, we read of the encouragement we find in knowing that we’re surrounded by those who have gone before us. Do you get worn out in life as you ‘run the race?’ The Hebrew writer encourages us to “…consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners…” Why consider Him? “…so that you may not grow weary and lose heart.”

“Hilltops of Glory” – no book

“Onward rejoicing, I tread life’s way…” This song before our lesson dates back to the mid 1950’s and we sing about pressing on toward heaven. The chorus posses a great question, “O brother, won’t you come go with me?” How will you answer the chorus? Maybe you need to ask yourself, ‘Am I asking the question?’

“Only a Step” – 940

How far away from God do you think you are? What kind of step(s) do you need to take to get right with Christ? This invitation song begins with the call to ‘Hear the sweet voice of Jesus…’ In John 14:6, Jesus says, ‘I am the way…No one comes to the Father except through Me.” The writer of this song encourages us with the understanding that Jesus is only a step away. Those who have been baptized into Christ at one time stepped into the watery grave of baptism. If you are not a child of God and you wonder how far away is He? The answer is simple…He’s only a step away.

“Hold to God’s Unchanging Hand” – 613

What does it mean ‘time is filled with swift transition?’ Obviously swift is quick and transition is to change…so as we sing this song we’re saying, “time (life) changes fast”. How true…and this spiritual song encourages us to “hold to God’s hand” as time changes. It’s been said, “time changes everything”. There’s a lot of truth to that, but we can rest assured that when our journey is finished, and if we’ve been true to God, our joyful hearts will view glory. In the mean time, we’ve got to hold to God’s unchanging hand.

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, July 28, 20121, July 28, 2012

What If…You Make the Choice?

Have you ever ask yourself, “What if…”?

What if I oversleep?
What if I lose my wallet?
What if I miss my flight?
What if I have to sell my house?

The world is full of questions, and not just the ‘what if’ kind. We could spend a lot of time talking and thinking about our answers to these questions, but take a moment to dig deeper into the ‘what if’ scenario. During the early 1990, almost 20 years ago, many of us learned and began to echo a personal motto, a phrase that was used as a reminder of our belief. A moral imperative that guided our thoughts concerning how we should act. A phrase that not only directed our thoughts, but became a public display of our love for Jesus. The motto could be found on bracelets and banners. Do you remember WWJD, What Would Jesus Do? This simple phrase was meant to motivate us to think about our actions.

So, what would you do if you overslept, or lost your wallet, or missed your flight? Your heart will determine your actions and how you’ll react to your circumstances. It’s important to keep this thought in mind as you live your life. There’s a song that you will appreciate, and most certainly will help you consider a new dimension to the ‘what if’ question. Click on the picture (or the title of the song below) and listen to the McCoy Family Singers as you read the words to this song. What you would do if you had walked with Jesus? How would that have changed you?

Song Title: “If I Could Have Walked with Jesus”

“If I could have walked the streets with Jesus.
If I could have washed my Savior’s feet,
if I could have seen His acts of mercy and love,
My joy would have been so complete!

If I could have seen Him in the garden,
if I could have waited while He prayed!
If I could have been there when my Lord was betrayed
I hope that I would not have strayed!

If I could have wiped the brow of Jesus
as He carried His cross to Calvary.
If I could have seen the open tomb where He rose
my faith would have transformed me!

O God, let me walk the streets for Jesus.
Let me wash Your people’s weary feet!
May I carry out His acts of mercy and love,
may faith in Him transform me!
May my faith in Christ transform me!”

Over two thousand years ago there were hundreds who really did walk with Jesus. What if you had been one of them, what would you have done? Would that experience have ‘transformed’ you? Today we encounter people at every turn. Within those encounters there are opportunities that will define who we are. As we walk through life consider how you’ll treat people because ultimately that will determine your attitude toward God. Carry out acts of mercy and love and see how you will change. What if TODAY you decided to walk with Jesus?

Category: Walking

Faded Memories…but Eternal Fellowship!

The Road To…? Feb. 2nd

Sunday morning, February 2, 2014

Learning How to Walk…Nov. 17th

Sunday morning, November 17, 2013

A Light in the Darkness

Whose Hand are You Holding?

The Good Samerican…July 14th

Sunday morning, July 14, 2013

Crossing the Finish Line…April 21st

Sunday morning, April 21, 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:

What If…You Make the Choice?

Have you ever ask yourself, “What if…”?

How would that change you?

Sunday morning, February 2, 2014

Sunday morning, November 17, 2013

Sunday morning, July 14, 2013

Sunday morning, April 21, 2013

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:

Have you ever ask yourself, “What if…”?

How would that change you?

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: