Category: Worship

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Will You Join Me for Supper?…Jan. 26th

collection plateEvery Sunday morning we meet together to worship God, sing songs of praise and edification and study from His holy word.  But above all, we come as a collected body of His people to commemorate our Lord’s death, burial and resurrection.  And we do so, as He commanded, by taking the bread, His body, and the cup, His blood in remembrance of Him.

This Sunday morning we’ll focus our time together, in the corporate worship, solely around the Lord’s Supper.  Our songs will be interspersed with the message of Christ’s sacrifice.  Often we come together, and often we sing and prayer, but our prayer is that we will keep in memory all the things Jesus said.  Sunday morning would be a good time to, “join me for supper.”

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

Sunday morning, January 26, 2014

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

“Come, Let Us All Unite to Sing” -121

As our country struggled in the early years before the Civil War, a song of unification was penned.  That same spiritual song will serve as our opening song of encouragement this Sunday morning.  “Come, let us all unite to sing…God is love!”  The call is for every soul to wake up from the sleep of death (sin), and make sweet music in his heart…for Jesus’ sake.  Why?  Simply because God is love!

“He Has Made Me Glad” -103

Taken from the Psalms (100th chapter) this contemporary ‘psalm’ expresses our wish to come before the Lord with singing.  We sing about thankfully entering through His gates and praising Him in His courts.  Today is the day the Lord has made…how will you react to it?  If He has made you glad, REJOICE!

Rose of Sharon“Jesus, Rose of Sharon” -568

A song from years gone by and one that is not often sung amidst all our contemporary options.  But what a power message that references the Old Testament.  The Rose of Sharon (Song of Solomon) is used poetically and expresses the beauty of the one who is loved.  Do you see Jesus as beautiful in His sacrifice and love for you?  There is so much more to this rose which grew in Sharon’s plain (Isaiah 35) besides it’s beauty.  It possessed qualities for healing and health as noted in the third verse; “Jesus, Rose of Sharon, balm for every ill, may Thy tender mercy’s healing power distil for afflicted souls of weary burdened men, giving needy mortals health and hope again…”

“Oft We Come Together” -no book

Written and composed by Tillit S. Teddlie, this song focuses on the Lord’s Supper and fits well with our message this morning.  Would that we truly worship as we eat the bread and drink the cup.  But not only should we have a worshipful heart, we should be together as one (in one accord) without decisions or division.  “Help us Lord, Thy love to see…”

“Til My Faith Becomes Sight“ -836

A beautiful song of prayer as we identify six specific names for Jesus, the Christ.  1) Bread of Life 2) pure Living Water 3) Lover of my soul 4) Lamb of God 5) Savior 6) Lord & King…Don’t fear the world, it may ‘slay’ you, but He is the light darkness.  Keep your eyes on Him til your faith becomes sight.

“When I See the Blood” -no book

Perhaps not familiar to most, this song was written in 1892 and uses the exact wording found in Exodus 12:13, “And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt.”  As the children of Israel prepared to leave Egypt by the delivering hand of God, they are given some specific instructions.  We too are delivered (blessed) by ‘the blood.’  But for us it’s not lamb’s blood, but the blood of THE LAMB.

“There is Power in the Blood” -903

Question…‘would you be whiter, much whiter than snow?  There’s power in the blood.”  Focusing on the Supper we have taken the bread and now we’ll take of the cup.  The cup that represents His blood.  The power of life eternal comes from the blood of the Savior.  There is power!

“Hallelujah!  What a Savior” -337

Isaiah prophesied of a Messiah who would be a ‘man of sorrows’ (Isaiah 53:3).  We’ll sing of the Son of God who came for the sinner.  A Savior who bore our shame and was condemned for our pardon.  We are guilty and vile (full of wickedness) and He is a spotless Lamb of God.  He was lifted up to die, but now exalted on high…how can we not sing, “Hallelujah! What a Savior.”       

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The Mystery of Marriage…Jan 19th

wedding ringsWhy is it some marriages last for decades while others wither months after the honeymoon?  Is there a secret formula that provides longevity to the marriage covenant?  Maybe there’s a mysterious formula only the ‘lucky’ have discovered?  We can better understand how marriages find success when we understand the phrase “I DO”…

The man and woman face each other and the preacher asks the long awaited question, “Do you take this man to be your lawfully wedded husband?”  Without hesitation the bride’s response is clear, “I do!”  At the same time the penitent one stands before the Lord and is asked a similar question, “Do you believe that Jesus is the Son of God?”  That response echoes the bride…”I DO!”  A wedding and a baptism, is there a connection?  Join us as we look at the mystery of marriage.

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

Sunday morning, January 19, 2014

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

“You Are the Song that I Sing” – 238

What do we sing on Sunday morning?  Is it a song to praise and glorify God?  The Psalmist gives us a good starting point when it comes to singing, look to God first and foremost. “You (God) are the words and the music.  You (God) are the song that I sing.  You (God) are the harmony, You (God) are the melody, praise to Your name (God) I will sing…”

“Let Me Live Close to Thee” – 831

This chorus has a strong alto lead and an incredible message.  Giving this hymn it’s title we sing together the chorus; “Let me live close to Thee, take my hand, dear Lord, and guide me all along the rugged way; O let me live close to Thee, let me walk and talk with Thee, dear Lord, each day.”   Do you want to live close to Him?  Does a husband want to be with his wife or a wife with her husband?  They should, and so should the Christian long to be with his Savior.

“In Memory of the Savior’s Love” – 335

Our reading before the Lord’s Supper is I Corinthians 11:23, 24 when Paul reminds us of Christ’s sacrifice and His words. “This is My body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me.”  We’ll sing Lords suppertogether, and remember our Savior’s love.  Let’s ‘keep the sacred feast’ and be sure we come with humble, contrite (repenting) hearts.

“By Christ Redeemed” – 366

Notice the last three words in each verse of this song conclude with the same words Paul wrote in I Corinthians 11:26.  Remembering Christ’s death, burial and resurrection we partake of the Lord’s Supper; “…proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.”

“Sweet Adoration“ – 253

A beautiful contemporary song we’ll sing following the Lord’s Supper expressing our ‘adoration’ to God.  But ask yourself, will I honor Him with my words (my lips) and yet keep my heart far from Him (Matthew 15:8)?  Understand we should give God, “…glory and honor and praise…a part of our constant devotion.”  Husbands and wives, loving your spouse goes beyond just saying “I love you.”

“Wonderful Words of Life” – 543

How many times have you heard the message of salvation?  For some it would be many, many times.  But still our hearts would say, “Tell me the story of Christ’s love…again.”  Sunday morning, before our lesson, we’ll ask each other to “Sing it over again to me, wonderful words of Life…words of Life and beauty (that) teach me faith and duty…”

“Trust and Obey” – 915

Marriages succeed when the husband and wife trust each other.  As their marriage grows with the years, so their relationship becomes stronger and happier.  If they walk with each other, share each others burdens and trust and obey God’s word they find comfort.  In like manner, when we trust in God’s guiding hand, what should be our concern?  When we obey His holy word, what is there for us to fear?  We sing, “never fear, only trust and obey!” 

“Light the Fire” – no book

The contribution plate will be passed after the lesson this morning, but as we give back what already belongs to God, we’ll sing a song of restoration.  Asking, as it is, for God to light the fire in our hearts that we would serve and honor Him more.

“How Sweet, How Heavenly” – 709

Closing our worship time together we’ll sing this traditional spiritual song (220 years old) encouraging each other to ‘feel each others sigh’, to cry with each other (‘sorrow flows from eye to eye’) and to overlook each others faults (‘each can his brother’s failings hide’).  As a husband and wife do we feel each others sigh?  Husband’s, do you cry with your wife?  Wives, are you able to over look your husband’s faults?  There are some clear similarities with the marriage relationship and the Christian walk.  The mystery to marriage might well be found in the walk with Christ.

 

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What Will You Will?…Jan 12th

grandma and grandsonAs a young boy I was blessed with a grandmother who showered me with gifts, money and meals. Two hundred pounds later I can say it was much more than I ever needed or deserved. She didn’t do it out of compulsion or guilt, she gave because she wanted to. She ‘willed’ that I would be comfortable with earthly gifts, but she (and my parents) knew life was more than things.

Parents and grandparents give to their children much more than meets the eye. But all too often we focus on the tangible, the here and now. What did you get me for Christmas? How long until I get to trade in for a new phone? How much allowance will I get this year? Is this the extent of what we will leave for our children?  Is our ‘will’ of monetary value only, or is there something more we’ll give them. Christ left for us an inheritance far more valuable then silver or gold. Join us Sunday morning when we’ll hear a stirring lesson about…our wills.


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

Sunday morning, January 12, 2014

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

“Higher Ground” no book

A great traditional hymn with a newer twist.  We’ve sung this great song for years, but in recent years we’ve learned a new version (listen to it below).  But as always, don’t miss the message.  We have trials in this life that get us down and depress our spirits.  This morning we’ll open this time of worship with a hymn of encouragement.  “I’m pressing on the upward way, new heights I’m gaining every day; still praying as I onward bound, ‘Lord plant my feet on higher ground…”

“Breathe on Me, Breath of God” – 418

This hymn has a contemporary feel, but it was penned more than 130 years ago.  A call for God to ‘breathe’ upon His children with a blessing!  Notice the second verse, “Breathe on me, breath of God, until my heart is pure, until my will is one with Thine, to do and to endure.”  

“The Old Rugged Cross” – 313Old rugged cross

We’ll take this old spiritual song and break it up into three parts.  Verse one will be sung before the bread, verse two before the fruit of the vine and the third verse after the cup.  You’ll want to remember this second verse,  “O that old rugged cross, so despised by the world, has a wondrous attraction for me; For the dear Lamb of God left His glory above to bear it to dark Calvary…’  How much do you cherish the cross of Christ?  Where would we be without it?

“God Give Us Christian Homes” – 843

As we think about new resolutions for the year how many of us will make a priority of making our “…homes where the Bible is loved and taught?”  Let this song be a reminder that everyone has a responsibility in a Christian home.  Fathers are to be true and strong, mothers strive to show others God’s way is best and children are led.  Are our children willing to be led?  We need to make sure that in our homes ‘the Master’s will is sought.’  Parents, we need to be sure we prepare to leave a heavenly legacy for our families.

“My Hope is Built on Nothing Less” – 538

Where is your hope?  In what do you trust?  David wrote in Psalm 20:7, “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.”  This song before our lesson is a great reminder of what is most important.  What should we pass on to our children?  Nothing less than a hope that is built on Jesus’ blood.  We shouldn’t trust in the ‘sweetest frame’ (our physical well-being), but in the name above all other names…Jesus!  

“My Jesus As Thou Wilt” – 698

Words that date back 310 years (1704) but resonate with Christ’s own words in the garden, “Not My will but Thine.”  Considering what we ‘will’, it only makes sense that this song serve as our invitation song.  “O may Thy will be mine.”

“A Wonderful Savior” – 503

What a song of rejoicing as we sing to encourage each other that God is in control.  He takes care of us, comforts us and hides us.  Interesting to think that God hides us in His hand, but considering the trials of this world we do fine peace in knowing that God covers His people.  This old spiritual song reflects Exodus 33:22 as God spoke to Moses. “and it will come about, while My glory is passing by, that I will put you in the cleft of the rock and cover you with My hand…”  Indeed, a wonderful Savior is Jesus my Lord.

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How Can We Redeem a Moment of Time?…Jan. 5th

With the beginning of a new year you might find yourself asking the question, “Where did the time go?”  Each day we spend on this earth is a gift.  Each minute we live out is a reflection of our heart at that moment in time.  But what if we say something or do something but we ‘didn’t mean it.’  We know that our behavior/words at that moment don’t reflect who we really are or what we want to be.  How do I get that ‘minute’ back?

moving time backNew Year’s resolutions are a common practice during the next few weeks.  We ‘resolve’ to do better, make some changes and demonstrate a new practice for this new year.  And each day we’ll make decisions (just like last year) to eat better and work-out more.  But when the day is over and our resolve has ‘dissolved,’ how do you get it back?  Can you get it back?  Is there any hope we might be able to ‘redeem a moment of time?’  Join us Sunday morning as we welcome in a new year and consider how we spend our time… 

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

Sunday morning, January 5, 2014

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

“We Praise Thee, O God” – 2

This song is filled to the brim with thankfulness and praise coming from our hearts as we sing to our Father. The first four verses echo with our gratefulness and thankfulness to Him and in verse five, the writer, William MacKay helps us to turn our attitude in a way of humbly asking God for His favor. In verse five we sing, asking our Father to “revive us again” and to let each of our souls be,“rekindled with fire from above.” How powerful the words that we sing. It only begins to help us to recognize how small and powerless we are compared to the, “God of all grace”.  Let us allow Him to ‘rekindle our spirits’ this morning as we begin our time of praise and adoration.

“In Christ Alone” -no book

This song is not in most hymn books, but what a powerful message it has we sing.  With each verse of this song we hear, “In Christ Alone”, and it helps us to realize that we can only do our best things through Christ alone. He is our “cornerstone” and our “solid ground” and as we prepare our minds for the Lord’s supper let us reflect on how we should rely on him more. 

“Fairest Lord Jesus” – 288

After the Lords supper we will sing of our beautiful Savior.  We will sing a verse that is not in the book but is still as powerful reminder of our Savior’s love.  “Beautiful Savior, Lord of all nations! Son of God and Son of Man. Glory and honor, praise, adoration, Now and forever more be thine!” What a beautiful verse as we praise Him in saying, “Fairest Lord Jesus!”

“Remind Me, Dear Lord” – 606 We recognize in singing this song that the earthly things that we have are “just borrowed, they’re aren’t mine at all.” curtainIn the chorus of this song we ask our Father to open our minds, help us search our memories and to remember where we have come from. What a touching scene this would be, if humbly we come to him and ask for His patience with us.  We, as His children plead with him and I can imagine myself in a small and quiet voice saying, “Roll back the curtain of memory now and then.  Show me where You brought me from and where I could have been….”

“Take Time to Be Holy” – 731

As your new year is underway, consider how often you will take time to stop and strive to be holy?  Honestly, I’m afraid we make time for Him and therefore fail to get the nourishment that we need to grow as Christians. This song is merely encouraging us to as the “world rushes on” to seek Him in His guidance and council.  And as we do let us consider each of our thoughts, deeds and motives and be sure they are, “beneath His control”.

“A New Creature” – 619

This song is a song that is meant to be sung to one another as encouragement. In the third verse T. O. Chisholm pinned some very inspiring words, “Sin hath no more its cruel dominion, walking ‘in newness of life’ I am free, glorious life of Christ, my Redeemer, which He so richly shareth with me.” As we walk in our “newness of life” with Christ let us be reminded of what He sacrificed so we could share heaven with Him.

“Why Do You Wait?” – no book Serving as our invitation song this morning, we sing/ask the simple question of; “Why do you wait, dear brother?” Very simple and yet very to the point. Many times in life we may reach the time when we’re asked this question. “Why are you delaying?  What do you hope to gain by stalling?” The questions that we are asking are so simplistic, and yet many times the answer escapes us.  I don’t have a good reason for putting off what needs to be done.  When it comes to accepting Christ as your Savior just remember…“There is no one to save you but Jesus, there is no other way but His way.”

“Hold To God’s Unchanging Hand” – 613hold to His hand

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 forsaken” we find comfort in the consistency of God’s strong hands.  Serving as a constant theme throughout the song, we encourage each other to hold to Gods Unchanging Hand.  It’s hard to redeem time once it’s passed, but holding tight to the Father’s hand will be a decision you’ll never regret.

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A Compelled or Committed Disciple?…Dec. 29th

mowing the lawnAs a young boy I remember my parents telling me, “You don’t have to do the chores, you get to.”  My opinion was not that I was being honored by the work, but I was being compelled to do it.  My dad’s opinion was just the opposite.  If I wanted the benefits of eating mom’s cooking and the privilege of sleeping in a warm bed, then I would show my commitment to the family.  I would get to do my chores.  We often see what lies before us as a ‘have to’ task.  But is that our focus in the church? 

Matthew, Mark and Luke all record a certain man who helped Jesus carry His cross, Simon of Cyrene.  But as you read the passage, he wasn’t a ‘put me in coach, I’m ready to play’ type of guy.  He was “…pressed into service to bear the cross.”  (Matthew 27:32)  Though we don’t know his heart, Simon was compelled to serve.  As a disciple of Christ, are you pressed into service or are you doing your task because you’re committed to the family? 

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

Sunday morning, December 29, 2013

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

“I Stand in Awe” 96

A song to open our worship to God which calls upon us to proclaim our adoration to Him.  To not only say “Holy God”, but to stand in awe of Him.  We’ll stand physically, but how is your posture spiritual?  When the world sees you outside of Sunday morning, do you stand in awe of Him? 

“Leaning on the Everlasting Arms” – 589

This old song will transition us from standing in awe of our Father to the realization that I can’t stand without Him.  And I’m not alone.  Each of us, when we’re truthful, know we must lean on His arms.  When we understand that (when we sing it), we’re in fellowship. holy holy holy

“Holy, Holy, Holy” – 47

This old hymn, sung to Him, echoes the scene from Revelation 4 as we sing around the throne of God.  ‘Holy, Holy, Holy!”  For our edification we’ll have the soprano sing the first verse and add each part as we sing each verse.  not to miss the message notice the third verse, “…tho (even though) the darkness hide Thee, Tho the eye of sinful man Thy glory can not see (even though sinful man can not see Your glory…only You are Holy).  Only Thou art holy, there is none beside Thee, perfect in power, in love and purity.”

“Must Jesus Bear the Cross Alone” – 319

As we consider the topic for this morning, and as we prepare our minds and hearts for the Lord’s Supper, we sing this about service.  Written over 300 years ago, this message calls believers to ‘take up the cross’ (Matt. 16) and serve!  Jesus carried the cross so we could see resurrection day.  Are we willing to “deny himself (ourselves), take up his (our) cross and follow Me” (Jesus)?

“Beneath the Cross” – 314

“Beneath the Cross of Jesus I fain would take my stand…”  Do you know what you’re singing?  What did you mean when you said I would “fain” take my stand beneath Jesus’ cross?  The poetry is saying, ‘I’m glad to stand up for the death of Jesus.’  What about, “O safe and happy shelter, O refuge tried and sweet, O trysting place where heaven’s love and heaven’s justice meet.”  Trysting place…what is that mean?  By definition; an agreed upon place where two come together.  In this song, heaven’s love and heaven’s justice met at Calvary.

“I Want to Be a Worker” – no book

Before our lesson this morning it seems only fitting to sing about being a worker.  How we will work is our own, individual decision.  The verses give us some suggestions; “I want to be a worker (who will) love and trust His holy word…I want to be a worker every day…I want to be a worker strong and brave.”  The chorus is our proclamation, “I will work, I will pray in the vineyard of the Lord!”

“Where He Leads Me I Will Follow” – 876

Not under compulsion, but willingly do we sing this song, “Where He leads me I will follow…”  A simple song that indicates my life in Christ, my work in His kingdom, is not compelled but committed.

“To the Work, To the Work” – no book

We’ll conclude our together with a song that encourages us to get out there and get to work.  We’re not made to bear His cross and we don’t have to ‘do our chores’, but as ‘servants of God’, disciples of Christ, we must be committed!  The chorus is a beautiful echo of unity, “Toiling on, toiling on…let us hope, trust, watch, pray and labor till the Master comes.” Christ will return and we’ll either be serving because we had to, or because we wanted to.

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A Servant is Not Above His Master…Dec. 15th

Every respectful employee understands the expectations of working for his employer.  My boss tells me what do to, and I do it (as the scripture says without grumbling honoror complaining, Phil. 2:14).  Yet in a culture that questions authority, this concept is becoming a rare commodity.  How do we revive the principle of respect and honor when it comes to the master/servant relationship?

Reading Matthew chapter 10, you’ll see Jesus sending his disciples to ‘…go to the lost sheep of Israel.’  Through His various instructions we read the proclamation, “A servant is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master.” (verse 24)  Is this a difficult statement?  Do we value ourselves above others to the point that we refuse to serve one another?  A child of God never forgets who he serves and he understand why the servant is never above his Master.

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

Sunday morning, December 15, 2013

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

“Come, Let Us All Unite to Sing” -121

As our country struggled in the early years before the Civil War, a song of unification was penned.  That same spiritual song will serve as our opening song of encouragement this Sunday morning.  “Come, let us all unite to sing…God is love!”  The call is for every soul to wake up from the sleep of death (sin), and make sweet music in his heart…for Jesus’ sake.  Why?  Simply because God is love!

“Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee” -202meadow and mountains

Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” serves as the musical foundation for this hymn of praise.  Each verse calls the singer, and the whole of God’s creation, to worship Him.  Note verse two; “All Thy works with joy surround Thee, earth and heav’n reflect Thy rays, stars and angels sing around Thee, center of unbroken praise; Field and forest, vale (valley) and mountain, flowery meadow, flashing (surprising) sea, chanting birds and flowing fountain call us to rejoice in Thee.”  All of God’s creation praises Him.  Will we?

“I Am Thine, O Lord” -666

Before the Lord’s Supper we’ll sing about our devotion to God.  The servant-Master relationship is implied as we seek to be ‘consecrated’ (set apart as holy) in His service.  The chorus echoes with the desire we have to be drawn nearer to His side.  May we turn our hearts and minds back ‘to the cross where Thou hast died.’ Truly, God’s children understand that He is the Master and we say, “I am Yours, O Lord.”

“He Paid a Debt” -376

‘He paid a debt He did not owe…’  On the face of it we sing this song from rote and can sing it with our eyes closed.  We know the words, but do we listen to the message.  As a servant to his Master we must never forget who paid the debt for us.  It’s not about what I have done, but what Jesus did!  He paid that debt on Calvary… Amazing Grace!

“On Bended Knee“ -791

A beautiful song of prayer where we come ‘bowing down’ to our King.  Understanding this to be a figure of speech, it still behooves us to ask the question, ‘are we willing to bend our knee before the throne?’  Without a humble or broken heart we’ll never truly bow to Him…figuratively.  However, remember the scripture is clear, “…that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth…” Philippians 2:10.  So literally we will all one day be ‘on bended knee.’

“More About Jesus” -678

Some people think they can never have enough.  Never satisfied with what they have, but always looking for more.  As servants of the King, we should be looking for more too.  We should be striving to know more about Jesus, to learn more about Him and His saving fullness.  This old spiritual song uses the word ‘more’ ten times in the first verse alone.  As you strive for ‘more’, make Jesus your first and only objective.

“Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus” -679

Serving as our invitation song this morning, we sing a strong affirmation of our trust in Jesus.  He is our Master and we trust His judgement.  But notice the third verse, ‘…Yes, ’tis sweet to trust in Jesus, just from sin and self to cease…”  As we follow the Master we cease living in sin, we start serving the Master and stop serving ourselves.  We come to better understand that the servant is not above his Master.

“Make Me a Servant” -694

How appropriate we conclude this morning’s song service with this simple contemporary hymn to God.  As you think about what you’re singing you will better understand what you are asking for.  “Make me a servant…do what You must do to make me a servant…”  Are you really ready for that, for God to do what He must do?  If you are truly ready for God to work in you, then you know that a servant can never be above his Master.     

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All Things According to the Pattern…Nov. 24th

A pattern is necessary if you want to duplicate the original.  If I want to ‘make it right,’ I have to follow the pattern.  But just because I have a pattern doesn’t mean I automatically have a duplicate.  Without following the directions, the pattern will be flawed and far from effective.

patternAny seamstress knows the importance of following the pattern.  And yet many who ‘fear God’ often fail to remember that basic principle when it comes to living Christian lives.  Many will say they want to follow God’s teaching (the Word), but don’t want to be ‘bound’ by a pattern.  Free will and exploring God on my own might be the ‘new way’, but even Moses was instructed, “See to it that you make everything according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.”  Hebrews 8:5 


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

Sunday morning, November 24, 2013

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“In Moments Like These” 239

If we are honest with ourselves, there are times when we feel closer to God than other times.  What causes this feeling of joy and fulfillment?  What gives us that emotional lift as opposed to the times when we’re feeling down?  Circumstances can change in life, but our God never changes.  When you do find yourself feeling God’s love and strength, sing a song of praise.  But when you’re not…sing these words; “In moments like these, I lift up my voice; singing I love you, Lord.”

“Is It For Me?” – 483

An old hymn that asks a simple question, “Is it for me…?”  The peace and rest of heave, the welcome to ‘enter in’ heaven’s glory.  We sing this question, but let the message of the refrain echo in your heart as we praise the Father and the Son, “O Savior, my Redeemer, what can I but adore (what else is worthy of praise), and magnify (glorify) and praise Thee and love Thee…forever more?”  Never forget that the glory and rest of heaven is for all those who die to Christ…and yes, it is for me!

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

A contemporary song that isn’t really asking the question, ‘How deep is the Father’s love’, but one that is sung to how-deep-the-fathers-love-for-usconfirm what we already believe and know.  God’s love for us is so deep and vast we can’t begin to 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 23:25-38) as they stood at the foot of the cross.  Why should I gain from His sacrifice?  I don’t know the answer to that question.  “But this I know with all my heart, His wounds have paid my ransom.’

“Abide with Me” – 808

A song that is popular during the closing hours of one’s life.  A hymn pleading for God to abide with us during these dark, lonely hours.  We’ll sing this song following the Lord’s Supper, but we’ll focus on the fourth verse as we sing; “Hold Thou Thy cross before my closing eyes; shine through the gloom, and point me to the skies; heaven’s morning breaks, and earth’s vain shadows flee: in life and in death, O Lord, abide with me.”

“Restore My Soul” – no book

A strong, upbeat song that asked God to restore our spirit, revive the fire of our souls and renew our courage to live for the Savior.  “Renew my love, rebuild my faith and restore my soul.”  Perhaps some will find it repetitive, but what a message to ask for strength as we express our “desire to work in His fold…”

“Sing to Me of Heaven” – 716

Almost 100 years old, this spiritual song is sung encouraging the Christian to remember the joy of heaven.  The traps (toils) that bind us on this earth will be loosened as we encourage each other to keep looking to the pattern and the hope of eternal life with Christ!

“Softly and Tenderly” – 934

An ‘invitation song’ that has been around since the late-1800’s calls the wandering sinner to turn back to God. Visions of the stubborn child who has run away from home are seen as we plead for those who are weary to come back and rest.  To emphasize the message, there is a sense of urgency in the third verse; don’t you realize time is now fleeting and the moments are passing…? Come on, come home!

“True Hearted, Whole Hearted” – 629town crier

“Peal out the watch word!”  Almost like the town crier who is standing on the street corner announcing the ‘good news’, so we too should be true to our devotion to God and share His message.  Or more likely, we should be shouting out the song of our spirits if we are truly rejoicing and free.  This is truly a song of victory if we are true to His Word and follow the pattern given to us in the scripture.

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Learning How to Walk…Nov. 17th

baby stepsMany 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” – 394walking together

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 holding handsand 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. 

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The Battle Belongs to the Lord…Nov. 10th

“Lift up your heads, O gates, and be lifted up, O ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in!  Who is the King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle…He is the King of glory.”
Psalm 24:7, 8, 9  David penned this psalm thousands of years ago, and yet the soldier still today finds comfort in knowing who is mighty in battle.

As soldier’s of the cross we must hold fast to the knowledge that the war has soldier prayingbeen won.  Though skirmishes come into our lives constantly, and daily battles must be fought as we stand for truth, we know Jesus is Lord.  Join us Sunday morning as we honor our veterans and admonish all of the soldiers in the Lord’s army!

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

Sunday morning, November 10, 2013

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

“The Battle Belongs to the Lord” 560

We begin our worship services this morning as we encourage each other to give glory and honor to the King.  It’s interesting to consider the first verse; how are we entering the land (this world)?  Are we equipped for battle or do we ‘just throw something on?’  A football player would be clobbered if he walked onto the gridiron minus his shoulder pad or helmet.  And yet how often does the Christian walk into the world without His armor?

soldiers marching“Am I a Soldier of the Cross?” – no book

This old song has several different arrangements, but we’ll sing this one to the tune of “The Gospel is for All.”  Simply enough we sing (ask) the question, “Am I a soldier of the cross; a follower of the Lamb…?”  Today we should be asking ourselves, am I afraid to stand up for Him…or am I embarrassed to be known as a soldier of Christ?  This world opposes God…are you willing to be a soldier in His army?

 

“Come Share the Lord” – 364

As we turn our minds toward the Lord’s Supper, we commemorate our Lord’s death, burial and resurrection.  We join each other in breaking the bread, drinking the fruit of the vine and sharing (communing) with our Lord.  Each Christian understands the importance of this memorial and that’s why we anticipate the feast each Sunday morning.  That’s why ‘we gather here in Jesus’ name…’ and that’s why ‘…His love is burning in our hearts like living flame…’

“Why Did My Savior Come to Earth” – 382

An other simple question which all honest believers have asked…’why?’  Why did my Savior come to earth and go to the humble (lowly)…?  The answer is heard as the little children sing “Jesus loves me, this I know.”  Why did He drink the bitter cup (death) and endure sorrow, pain and woe…?”  He did it, because He love me so!

“It Is Finished” – 369It-is-finished

A majestic song of Christ’s resurrection and our victory in Him.  The first three verses are sung together while we consider the old rugged cross as it stands on a line drawn through the ages.  The forces of evil have been amassed on one side and the angels of glory on the other.  The earth shakes with the force of the conflict, even noting that the sun refuses to shine (Luke 23:44).  But then, as Christ breathes His last, a cry echoes across all time…“It is finished!”  Though we may still struggle with our won individual battles we can praise His name knowing that there will be no more war…it is finished and Jesus is Lord!

“Soldier’s of Christ, Arise” – 647

Before our lesson this morning it seems only fitting to sing about being a soldier of Christ.  It has always struck me with fascination as we implore the soldier’s of Christ to ARISE (get up)!  Notice the call to put on your armor (helmet, shoes, breastplate, sword, belt) and be ready to fight a foe who opposes God.  Reading Ephesians 6 you’ll get a clearer understanding of what the ‘panoply of God’ really is.  Just be sure that you, leave no place unguarded, and that there be no weakness in your soul.  Take virtue and grace and fortify (secure) the whole of your responsibility in serving Christ.

“Take My Life, and Let It Be” – 669

The ‘invitation’ is a simple to call to clarify your present walk in life.  The Christian’s desire should be to draw closer to God each and every day. The non-Christian has a call to come and take Christ on in baptism, that they too may be a child of the King.  After knowing who Jesus is and what He did we should all be saying, “Take my life and let it be consecrate Lord to Thee…”  It’s not what I want, but what God calls me to be.  We sing, “take my life, my hands, my will, my heart, my life, myself…to be honest, that doesn’t leave much behind.  Give to God your all.

“The Battle Belongs to the Lord” 560

We’ll conclude our worship together with the same song that we began with.  But we’ll start this time with the chorus, “And we’ll sing glory, honor, power and strength to the Lord…”  As soldier’s in the Lord’s army, let’s be ready to praise our King and serve Him faithfully.  Never fear the battle, but remember, the Battle Belongs to the Lord!

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Counter Cultural Christianity…Nov. 3rd

Culture can be defined as; ‘the predominating attitudes and behavior that characterize the functioning of a group or organization.’ We consider the actions of a people and determine their culture. What do the people believe?  What is the most important part of the people’s life?  Perhaps we need to look no further than what that ‘culture’ values.

Counter CulturalConcerning His disciples Christ prayed in John 17, ‘…they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.’  We do live in this world (this culture), but we are called to be separated from it.  In this same text Jesus also prayed, ‘I do not ask You to take them out of the world, but to keep them from the evil one.’  If our culture should embrace (have an attitude or behavior) that opposes God’s will, where will we stand?  With culture, or counter to it?  Just remember, oil and water won’t mix…and neither should Christians and the world.  Does that mean we ought not to ‘hang around’ non-Christians?  Not exactly, but we had best consider how we are seen by the world.  Will we fall in-line with the current culture, or will our Christianity be counter cultural? 

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

Sunday morning, November 3, 2013

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

“Awesome God” -38

We toss around the word ‘awesome’ when we want to describe something we really like.  That movie was awesome.  The meal was awesome.  What an awesome time we had together.  But let me encourage you to re-think the way we use this adjective.  It means to be inspired and moved beyond the norm.  Is that what God is for you?  Are you in ‘awe’ of Him?  Personally, I guess it’s just hard for me to place my Creator in the same category as Hollywood’s latest production.  God deserves much more than we give Him credit for…
Our God IS an awesome God!

“Faith is the Victory” – 469

A strong, spiritual songs that recalls the armor of God (Ephesians 6) and the battle we Christians should be preparing for.  We sing to admonish the congregation as we anticipate the spiritual battle against forces of darkness.  The message is poetically clear in the first verse; as soldiers we are camped next to the hills of light (heaven), but we must be ready to go to war ‘against the foes in vales below.’  Our fight is against the ‘night’ lest it should overcome the glowing skies (which seems to be the current situation in our culture).   Just remember, with our faith in God, we have the victory!

“Wounded for Me” – 328

Written in the 1930’s, this spiritual song has the sound of a contemporary piece with the basic message of Christ’s sacrifice for us, “Wounded for me, wounded for me.  There on the cross He was wounded for me…”  Our song continues as we sing how he was not only wounded, but He died for me.  But praise be to God, “He has risen for me; now evermore from death’s sting I am free, all because Jesus has risen for me.”mount of olives and jerusalem

“‘Tis Midnight, and On Olive’s Brow” – 334

Open your Bibles and you’ll be able to follow the thought process of William B. Tappan as he penned these words in 1822.  The poetry takes you to Luke 22:39-44, “He came out and proceeded…to the Mount of Olives…and He withdrew from them about a stone’s thrown…an angel from heaven appeared to Him, strengthening Him…His sweat became like drops of blood…”  And singing, “Tis midnight and on Olive’s brow…the Savior prays alone…’ (1) ‘…unheard by mortals are the strains that sweetly soothe the Savior’s woes…’ (4) ‘…the Man of Sorrows weeps in blood…’ (3)
See also Hebrews 5:7, “…He offered up both prayers and supplications with loud crying and tears to the One able to save Him from death…”

“Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus” – 276

The title of this song comes from the chorus which was made famous by Helen Lemmel in 1922 (some may have thought this to be another contemporary, 80’s or 90’s, song).  The power of the words encourage us keep our eyes on Jesus.  As we conclude the Memorial of our Lord’s death, we continually strive to stay focused on Him.  Would that our hearts and minds be so close to our God that, ‘…the things of earth will grow strangely dim…’

“Onward, Christian Soldiers” – 646

A great ‘battle song’, but one with a verse many may have missed.  Notice these ‘new’ words; “Like a mighty army moves the church of God; Brothers, we are treading where the saints have trod.  We are not divided, all one body we; one in hope and doctrine, one in charity…”.  Would that we understand and remember Ephesians 4; “There is one body and one Spirit…one hope…one Lord…one faith…one baptism…one God and Father.”

“I Am Resolved” – 948

January 1st is a good time to find people making ‘resolutions.’  A time when you fix your mind toward accomplishing our goals.  A time when we promise ourself personal achievement.  A new year, a new start, a new goal.  This morning’s invitation is more than just a ‘first of the year’ promise.  We sing to confirm a promise that we are going to stop lingering, we are going to go to the Savior, follow the Savior, and ultimately, to enter His kingdom.  Do you hurry to get to the Savior (do you hasten to Him) or are you just lingering, taking your time?

“All the Way My Savior Leads Me” – no book

We live in a culture determined to lead us to believe and behavior in a particular way.  But as a child of God, our attitude and actions should be determined by Him and His will.  Who is leading your life?  Are you following in line with the ideals (behavior) of our culture, or are you being lead by the Savior…all the way?