How Can I Be a Christian in a Corrupt Society…July 19th

What does it mean to say that something is corrupt? A warning on your computer screen that reads, “Corrupted File” will no doubt put a damper on your day. If something has been corrupted, the original has been compromised, damaged or destroyed. By definition, to be corrupt, there has been a negative impact that causes someone, or something, to be ‘dishonest, immoral or impure.’

But aren’t we as Christians called to be lights in darkness? How can I be a light in a dark place and not be subject to corruption? Wouldn’t it be best if I just kept to myself and left ‘well enough alone?’ The task is unmistakable. Christ called us to ‘go into all the world.’ Therefore we have an obligation to shine our light, but to keep ourselves ‘unstained by the world.’ (James 1:27) So how can a Christian keep from being corrupted? Join us on Sunday morning as we example our responsibility as Christians.

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

Sunday morning, July 12, 2015

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

“All Things Praise Thee” – 43

“All things praise Thee – Lord, may we!” Written not as a question, ‘May we praise you Lord?’, but as an exclamation, ‘May we praise God like the things that we sing about in this song. The earth, sea and sky. The silent night, the sun by day, those in ‘heaven’s high shrine,’ seraph and arch angel. We, too, are God’s creation…may we ever be praising Him!

“Doxology” – 6

Immediately after we sing, ‘Ever praising – Lord, may we!,’ our hearts continue the song of praise. “Praise God from Whom all blessings flow.” For more than 300 years these words have stood the test of time, and for more than 450 years this tune has been resonating in our ears. Careful not to just sing the tune, but speak the words with understanding.

“I Come to the Garden Alone” – 595

A quiet song of reflection as we consider our prayer to God. Consider this song as if written from the view point of Mary Magedalene during the early morning hours, John 20:1. Following Christ resurrection, she stands in the garden and we sing, “I come to the garden alone, while the dew is still on the roses…” Notice verse 3, ‘but He bids me go…His voice to me is calling.’ John 20:17 “Jesus said to her, ‘Stop clinging to Me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to My brethren…’“

“In Christ Alone” – no book

In order to keep ourselves free from corruption while living in this world, we must fully rely on Christ, and on Him alone. For it is in Christ alone, in Him, that we find our hope!

“I Am a Sheep” – 533

Perhaps one way we can stay free from corruption in this dark world of sin and death is to remember the words of this spiritual song. As we sing the chorus we’re reminded, “And when the wind blows He is my shelter! When I’m lost and alone He rescues me! And when the Lion comes (Christ’s return) He is my victory! Constantly watching over me.” That is how you keep from being corrupted by sin…stay in Christ!

“I Know that My Redeemer Lives” – 528

It’s one thing to say, “I know,” but what do you do when the world says, “no one can know”? As a believer we have faith, and in our faith…we know! So we sing a song of affirmation, echoing through the ages, “I know, I know that my Redeemer lives, I know, I know eternal life He gives. I know, I know that my Redeemer lives.’ How to keep yourself from a corrupt and perverse generation? Believe, obey, follow and KNOW the Redeemer.

“Purer in Heart, O God” – 671

This is the perfect invitation song as we consider how to keep ourselves from a corrupt society. We must have a purer heart! But will we ‘devote’ our lives completely to Him? Are we willing to confess our ‘secret sin,’ and ask Him to reign in our lives? When we do, if we will, then we’ll be avoiding the corruption of the world.

“How Shall the Young Secure Their Hearts” – 432

“How shall the young secure their hearts and guard their lives from sin?” We sing the question and we might as well read the title of today’s lesson, “How can I be a Christian in a corrupt society?” The answer is right in front of you, God’s word will guide our youth (all of us) and support us throughout our days. We can still be God’s children in this corrupt world, as long as we don’t let the world corrupt us.

1, April 24, 20151, April 25, 2015

Do You Believe in the Church?…April 26th

Have you heard the phrase, ‘Talk is cheap?’ Simply translated, ‘actions speak louder than words.’ On a personal level, if I tell you to call whenever you need something, but refuse to answer your call when it’s not convenient (like say around 3:00 in the morning) isn’t that just cheap talk? In the same manner, if we proudly claim our church family on Sunday morning, but don’t associate with our brothers and sisters on Friday night, our actions are speaking loud and clear? Or, do we believe enough in the church that we’ll sacrifice our time for them? We might say (and sing) all the right words, but how would our life look if we really ‘believed’ in the church Christ died for?

The true test of how much you believe in something can’t be found in your words alone. What we believe in (value) can be seen in how much time, energy and interest we give to its success. In short, how much you trust in something is determined by how much you are willing to sacrifice for it. How much did God ‘believe’ in the church? Enough to have His Son die for her! Each of us would do well to take a look at how much time and energy (yes, even money) we are willing to give to this same church. Then ask the question, ‘How much do I believe in the church?’

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

Sunday morning, April 26, 2015

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

“For the Beauty of the Earth” – 67

What a great opening for Sunday morning’s service. As you consider the glory of God, what reasons can you find to praise Him? In 1864, Folliot Pierpoint offered these ideas. For the beauty of the earth, the sky, and each hour of the day or night; for the church that continually ‘lifteth holy hands.’ (See I Timothy 2:8) If for no other reason, these things call on us to say, “Lord of all, to Thee we raise this our sacrifice of praise.”

“Doxology” – 66

“Praise God from Whom all blessing flow!” The Old Hundreth dates back to the mid 1500’s with words that were penned in the early 1700’s. How could something so ancient still be sung and recognized here in the 21st Century? Possibly because some things never change. Things like…God will always be praised!

“When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” – 315

Let’s sing this song before the Lord’s Supper and break it up into three different sections. Verse 1 & 3, verse 2 & 4 and conclude with verse 5. Notice the power of the message. “When I survey the wondrous cross on which the Prince of glory died, my riches gain I count but loss and pour contempt on all my pride. See, from His head, His hands, His feet, sorrow and love flow mingled down. Did e’er (ever) such love and sorrow meet, or thorns compose so rich a crown?” Then verses 2 and 4, “Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast, save in the death of Christ, my Lord. All the vain things that charm me most I sacrifice them to His blood. His dying crimson, like a robe, spreads o’er (over) His body on the tree. Then am I dead to all the globe, and all the globe is dead to me.” Thanks to Isaac Watts we can survey the cross of Christ more vividly as we consider our Savior’s sacrifice for the church.

“I Believe in Jesus” – 356

Do you believe in the church Jesus died for? If you don’t believe His word, you’ll never be able to believe in Him. This spiritual song has one scriptural reference after another. From the day He stilled the storm on the Sea of Galilee to the morning He woke Lazarus from His deathly slumber. Do you believe the blind could see and the deaf could hear? Do you believe He died on Mount Calvary only to leave behind an empty tomb? Do you believe He’s the answer…do you believe in His church?

“The Church’s One Foundation” – no book

Blending the words from Samuel Stone in 1886 with the musically arrangement of George Webb in 1837, we have an all-time favorite when it comes to describing the Bride of Christ, the Lord’s church. “The church’s one foundation is Jesus Christ her Lord. She (the church) is His new creation, by water (baptism) and the word (the gospel of salvation). From heaven He came and sought her to be His holy bride, with His own blood He bought her and for her life He died.”

“Live for Jesus” – 594

Perhaps this isn’t your typical invitation song, but what a great call for the church to live a life for Christ. To be His disciple and stop wandering in sin. Living for Jesus means following His example and giving Him all you have.

“How Firm a Foundation” – 457

It’s been said if you really mean it, repeat it. And if you really want to get your point across, say it a third time. I’ve heard it said if you want to have someone over for supper and they turn you down, ask them again. If they still say no, ask them a third time. Perhaps three is a charm. Whether or not that was on the mind of the one who penned this hymn, repetition is utilized in the last verse of this song. But have you noticed Who is speaking? “The soul that on Jesus hath leaned for repose (rest), I will not, I will not desert to his foes. That soul, tho all hell should endeavor (try) to shake, I’ll never, no never, no never forsake.” God believes in the church and He will not turn us out. But what about you, do you believe in the church?

1, October 11, 20141, October 11, 2014

Life on the Battlefield…Oct. 12th

A soldier’s job is defined by struggle. When conflicts arise, these men and women put to practice all their training. A soldier, by definition, fights. Even in peace time, he is preparing himself for the inevitable battle. But what causes some in the heat of the battle to fight and die on the battlefield, while others will literally drop their weapons, strip off their uniform and run? Why do some stand with their fellow soldiers, supporting each other, while others don’t?

Understanding God’s word, the Christian realizes there is a daily struggle (Ephesians 5:10-17) in this life. We are in a battle against the wrong for the right. But the question remains, will we stay loyal or turn and run when the fight becomes fierce? Will we stand for what is right or crumble without a fight? Reader, know this…without a moral compass, without a ‘standard operating procedure,’ you will be left to guess and hope. Millions are trying to manage life, on their own. And yet Christians know the adversary is ‘on the prowl’ (I Peter 5), and without God’s word, we are ill-prepared. Rest assured, the devil, our adversary, is not waiting for us to step into battle, for this life is a battle. To be clear, we’re living life on the battlefield!

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

Sunday morning, Oct. 12, 2014

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

“Doxology” – 66

Opening our worship this morning we’ll sing a basic hymn from years gone by. “Praise God from whom all blessings flow…” Before we even think about fighting the battles in life, we must draw strength from the One who gives us hope for our battles. Let’s praise the Father, Son and Holy Ghost.

“The Glory-Land Way” – 535

Keeping the same key signature (musically), we’ll transition to another old favorite that echos the journey we’ve all chosen to take. A journey home to glory. Encouraging each other will give us added support for our individual battles. When we hear our family singing, “…heaven is nearer, and the way groweth (grows) clearer…” we find strength to keep on fighting for the goal.

“In Loving-Kindness Jesus Came” – 504

Focus on the third verse of this song as we consider our purpose in life on the battlefield, ‘”His brow was pierced with many a thorn, His hands by cruel nails were torn. When from my guilt and grief forlorn, in love He lifted me…” We are in battle, and there will be days we feel like we’re losing. After all, Christ was abused, beaten, mocked, disdained and killed on the cross. But never forget that He conquered death in His resurrection! So what does that mean me? In our daily battles, standing up for what is right and living with Christ as our guide..we have already won!

“Spirit of the Living God” – 422

A short, contemporary hymn that has a very interesting progression for the Christian. If we are to be the soldiers God calls us to be, there is a process we should consider. To be useful in battle we need to be melted down, and molded into what He wants us to be. Then we must be filled with His word and used for His glory. We sing, “Spirit of the Living God, fall fresh on me…melt me, mold me, fill me, use me…” A soldier fights for His commander and chief. We must answer the question, on the battlefields of life, who do we fight for?

“Christ Above Me” – no book

This hymn will likely be new to most, but the message is one we must learn and hold dear in our hearts. As a soldier of God, how do we visualize Christ in our life? Is He a Kevlar vest we put on for battle? Is His word a sword we pick up when we ‘go into a fight?’ Sing this song and follow the words as we recall how Christ is more than just part of our life…He IS our life. “Christ above me, Christ beside me, Christ within me ever guiding. Christ behind me, Christ before. Christ my love, my life, my Lord!”

“Faith is the Victory” – 469

Where are we ‘camping’ in this life? Is it on the battlefield, or do we prefer the ‘hills of light’ where there is peace and comfort. This old hymn, which you’ve sung for years, is a reminder that there is a war being fought for the soul of mankind. An obscure verse, which we’ll sing on Sunday, reminds us of the battle and how we should prepare for it. “On every hand the foe we find drawn up in dread array (they can look pretty intimidating), let tents of ease be left behind and onward to the fray (the battle). Salvation’s helmet on each head, and truth all girt about (Ephesians 5), the earth shall tremble ‘neath our tread, and echo with our shout…Faith is the victory!”

“I Am Resolved” – 948

Our invitation is a confirmation of our resolve in this battle, I’ll never quit! However, though most of us will sing that resolve, many will lay their weapons down when the fighting gets fierce. To stay faithful to Him, we have to remember what we sing in the chorus, “I will hasten (hurry) to Him.”

“To Christ Be True” – 736

What better way to finish off a lesson on life in the battlefield than to sing of our faithfulness to the battle. Soldiers must demonstrate loyalty in times of peace as well as times of battle. Just remember, “…To Christ, the Lord, be true and He will go with you. And help you through all your conflicts, to Christ the Lord be true!”

1, April 4, 20141, April 5, 2014

From the Beginning to the End…April 6th

There’s a simple little pamphlet that provides ‘expert commentary on major themes, plots, characters, and (the) historical background’ of many literary works. This study guide, CliffsNotes, has provided students with the opportunity to learn about a specific book. A useful means by which some find an amazing summary of some great works of literature.

In similar form, the book of Revelation sketches the entire sweep of humanity. The church Christ died for and her epic struggle to remain faithful to Him. The spiritual war between God and Satan, and a figurative look at that final battle. But these ‘notes’ are more than just a summary. And Sunday morning’s lesson will be more than just CliffsNotes; in a few short minutes we’ll go from…the beginning to the end!

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

Sunday morning, April 6, 2014

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

“Great Are You Lord” – no book

Opening our hearts and voices we’ll sing the praise of God in this short, contemporary hymn. ‘Holy Lord, Most Holy Lord! You alone are worthy of my praise…’ Join us in singing a song of praise unto the Lord Most High!

“How Great Thou Art” – 76

Transitioning from this recently written song of praise (Great Are You Lord), we’ll continue the thought of praise with a hynm that was penned 65 years previously. But don’t think this song has it’s origin in the mid-1900’s. It’s inspiration comes from a poem written by Carl Boberg in the late 1880’s. Seeing the majesty and power of a thunderstorm reminded him of the power and majesty of our God. He was moved to pen the thoughts that we sing today. “…I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, Thy power throughout the universe displayed. Then sings my soul…How great Thou art!”

“When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” – 315

Taking all five verses of this song we’ll sing before, during and after the Lord’s Supper. Before the partaking of the bread we’ll sing a verse not found in many of our hymnals, “His dying crimson like a robe, spreads o’er His body on the tree. Then I am dead to all the globe and all the globe is dead to me.” Notice the reference to his blood-soaked body and the message of Paul to the church in Colossae; “Since you died with Christ to the elemental spiritual forces of this world, why, as though you still belonged to the world, do you submit to its rules?” (NIV) Colossians 2:20. During this time of meditation, let me encourage you to focus on the Savior and ‘survey’ the cross.

“I Come to the Garden Alone” – 595

Written from the perspective of Mary Magdalen as she came to the tomb of Christ we sing; “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…” Perhaps after reading John 20:15, we can better understand the ‘voice I hear.’ “Jesus said to her, ‘Woman, why are you weeping?’” Understanding the context of the songs we sing will strengthen our songs of praise and edification.

“Doxology” – 66

Have you ever considered what this word means? Doxology comes from two Greek words, δόξα, (doxa) meaning “glory” and –λογία, (-logia) meaning “saying.” So translated, when we sing “Praise God from Whom all blessings flow!” We are actually…”Saying Glory!” A simple hymn with an obscure title giving us a noble message.

“Step by Step” – 15

“O God, You are my God and I will ever praise You!” Ask yourself, do you seek Him in the morning, and do you honestly strive to walk in His way? We sing the song and many will see our walk, but only you know whether or not you are seeking Him at the dawning of every day. It’s a walk that takes one step at a time…step by step He WILL lead me.

“Just As I Am” – 924

A beautiful invitation song we have sung since the mid-1800’s. Singing this song of encouragement (though it is actually a song we sing to HIM) we proclaim that we will indeed come to God, to the Lamb of God who shed His blood!

“When We All Get to Heaven” – 853

When we all get to heaven, what a day of rejoicing that will be! When we all see Jesus, we’ll sing and shout the victory.” WOW…consider that message we’ll sing as our closing song on Sunday morning. Are we ready to see Jesus? Are you ready to ‘shout the victory?’ Only if we come to him and walk with Him (step by step) will we ‘get to heaven.’ We can learn about our Savior and come to know and love Him as we study from ‘the beginning to the end.’

1, August 30, 20131, August 30, 2013

The Opportunity of a Life Time…September 1st

Some things only come around ‘once in a life time.’ We look forward to those opportunities when we can ‘make our mark’ or share some level of expertise that will effect that one-time, life-changing event. So what would you do when that time comes? Do you know when that moment will be?

Maybe we should ask, ‘can we prepare for that once in a life time event?’ How much training would it take to be ready? Then again, you would need to know what to train for and how to prepare for that opportunity. So consider this…what if someone asks you about Christ? Could that be ‘the opportunity of a life time’ and would you be ready?

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

Sunday morning, September 1, 2013

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

“Doxology” 66
“I Sing Praises” – 97

A simple medley that combines a traditional hymn (1709) with a contemporary hymn (1989). The key signature is the same, but the message is what makes this a powerful duo. As the congregation sings, “Praise God from whom all blessings flow…”, we continue with the assurance that we will “…sing praises to Thy name, O, Lord…” A beautiful combination of praise to our God.

“Tell Me the Story of Jesus” – 387

Many have sung this old spiritual song their whole life (written in 1880), and we have heard the singer tell about Christ on the Cross. But not just the cross, we also tell about the grave were Christ was ‘buried’. Yet without the next line our song would come to a sad conclusion. But then, as the Son rises, we sing, “tell that He lives again…” (Notice, we are singing the gospel; the death, burial and resurrection.) The third verse holds an emotional plea to, “…stay, let me weep while you whisper, ‘Love paid the ransom for me…” Think for a minute, when was the last time you cried when you considered Christ’s sacrifice?

“My Eyes are Dry” – 792

Listen to the message from this rather recent spiritual song/hymn; “My eyes are dry, my faith is old, my heart is hard, my prayers are cold…” A fearful situation to be sure, but how true is it for those who come together every Sunday morning? How many just go through the motions of being a Christian and never take inventory of their spiritual well-being. Without Jesus…we are lost. We all need to be ‘softened up’ with the spirit of His love and ‘washed anew’ in His blood. So…when was the last time you cried when you thought about His love?

“A Charge to Keep I Have” – 58
“People Need the Lord” – 660

Another medley we’ll sing before our lesson that combines the traditional (1832) with the contemporary (1983). In a dangerously lost world, it doesn’t take much to see that people need Jesus. And we, as children of God, have a charge, a responsibility to tell the world about Him. We may realize, but do we care that, “people need the Lord?”

“I Love to Tell the Story” – 659

We talk about all the things we love in life, but before our lesson we’ll sing about ‘loving to tell’ the story of Jesus Christ. You have certainly sung the song, but will you do what you sing? Each of these verses are filled with the reason we should not only sing about our Savior, but look forward to telling others about Him too. You can never tell when that ‘opportunity of a life time’ will come to you.

“Wonderful Words of Life” – 543

Let’s stand and sing this familiar melody from the late 1800′s. Not a typical invitation song, but the message couldn’t be clearer, “…sinner, list to the loving call,” “Wonderful words of Life; offer pardon and peace to all…” How eager are you to ‘Sweetly echo the gospel call…?” You never know when someone might be ready to listen to those wonderful words of life.

“Will You Not Tell It Today” – 628

As we leave the auditorium Sunday morning we’ll sing the question that has be asked for generations, “If the name of the Savior is precious to you…will you tell it (the good news) today?” But notice the ending to each of the three verses; “…will you not tell of your gladness today?”, “…will you not, my brother, the story repeat (the story of salvation)?” “…will you not tell them (the lost) the cheer-bringing word?” If you’re honest with yourself, every day you have the opportunity of a life-time.

1, April 4, 20131, April 4, 2013

We’re Marching and Singing to Zion…Pt 3

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

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

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

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

1, March 22, 20131, March 21, 2013

Weaving a Web…March 24th

This Sunday morning, March 24th, we will have a special guest speaker at Waterview church of Christ. David Friesen is one of our missionary’s, and he works with the congregation of God’s people in Camrose, Alberta, Canada.

How many people would you say it takes to strengthen the work in the mission field? Will we ever understand the influence and impact our collective efforts have on evangelism? David will share with us some of the work God is doing in Canada. Join us as he shows us the web of people who are woven together, helping spread the word of God.

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

Sunday morning, March 24, 2013

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

“I Stand in Awe” – 96

We’ll open our worship this morning with what many consider a ‘contemporary’ hymn of praise to God. This beautiful song was written over 25 years ago and calls for us to recognize our God’s position as “too marvelous for words.” Standing as we sing let us lift our voices in awe to our God! “Holy God to whom all praise is due…”

“Doxology” – 66

A beautiful, traditional hymn (a song sung to HIM) that was penned in the early 1700’s. But the music (Genevan Psalter) is even more antiquated as it dates back to the mid-1550’s…over 450 years ago. Yet the value of this song is found in its simple, everlasting words; … “Praise God from whom all blessings flow; Praise Him, all creatures here below; Praise Him above ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost.”

“Hallelujah! What a Savior” – 337

“Man of Sorrows”, what a name to place on our Savior, and yet we find it in the scriptures (Isaiah 53:3); “He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering…” As we turn our minds toward the Lord’s Supper this morning, don’t miss the message that rings throughout each verse. 1) He has come to reclaim ‘ruined sinners’…2) He took my place and ‘sealed my pardon’…3) We are guilty and vile (filthy), yet He was spotless…4) He was lifted up on a cross, but now He’s exalted on high…5) He’s coming back to take ‘His ransomed home’…No wonder we conclude this song with the title. Hallelujah! What a Savior.

“I Am a Stranger Here” – 658

Most likely new to many though this song dates back to the early 1900’s. But old or new, do we consider ourselves strangers in this land? If we truly are God’s people, we are foreigners who serve as ambassadors for our King. Our charge, to take His message throughout the land. And as each verse in this spiritual song reaches it’s conclusion we sing; “…I’m here on business for my King.”

“Send the Light” – 650

This maritime hymn will serve as our song before the lesson. It clearly reflects a Biblical reference of taking the message (the light) to those in need as it draws us to Acts, chapter 16, “During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, ‘Come over to Macedonia and help us.’.” In verse 2 we sing, “We have heard the Macedonian call today: Send the light! Send the light! And a golden offering at the cross we lay: Send the light! Send the light!” But have you thought why the song writer would mention an offering in the second part of this verse? Perhaps it comes from Romans 15 when the scripture says, “…for Macedonia & Achaia were pleased to make a contribution to the poor…” A country calling for helping, then giving back to God’s people.

“Hark! The Gentle Voice” – 907

Hark, by definition is to say listen attentively. We might say, “Quiet everyone, listen!” In that contexts we sing, “Quiet, listen to the gentle voice of Jesus calling…” Notice the end of the first and second verses; “…turn and listen, stay and hear.” and “…He (the Master holy) will teach if you will learn.” This song of invitation is calling for us to answer the call of Christ and accept His rest.

“You Are My All in All” – 484

We would consider it foolish to give up on a vast treasure if it was right within our grasp. Jesus is that treasure and yet we live in a world that foolishly walks away from Him. How often do we take this precious treasure for granted…without thinking twice we tend to give up. You and I know what Jesus means, He is our strength and our treasure…He is our All in All.

1, May 23, 2012

Singing a Medley

A medley is a collection of songs that are typically in the same key signature, with special attention given to the words. The stronger, more consistent the message the more inspirational and encouraging the medley. When a singing group presents a medley of songs the audience, the listeners, are usually inspired by the message of the songs. But should we (can we) sing a medley of songs during our worship services? For years I can remember our song service when the song leader (at times that was me) would stand in front of the congregation and announce the song number. After allowing plenty of time to ‘turn in your song book’… we sang! After the song was over, the second song number was announced and the process continued. Nothing wrong with this, but as I stated previously, we must be sure we sing with understanding. So how would I, should I, lead the congregation in a medley?

Let me give you an example of an medley we have sung in our home congregation on a Sunday morning. As services began we started with an opening prayer. Following the prayer, we sang “What a Mighty God We Serve” followed with “O Worship the King” and ending with “Doxology”. To assist in the flow of the medley, and to avoid interrupting the thought process, I recommend having the congregation turn to the songs BEFORE you start the medley. If your congregation uses a projector with a screen, you can project the songs (verses) and simply have the congregation follow your lead. With the above medley, notice how these words flow to develop the thoughts of praise…

“What a mighty God we serve! What a mighty God we serve! Angels bow before Him, heaven and earth adore Him, what a mighty God we serve!” “O worship the King all glorious above, and gratefully sing His wonderful love. Our shield and defender the ancient of days. Pavilion and splendor and girded with praise.” “Praise God from Whom all blessing flow. Praise Him all creatures here below. Praise Him above ye heavenly host. Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost.”

Whether you lead a song, announce a number, and lead a song…or if your congregation is receptive and able to follow the thoughts from a medley, as children of God, we must be more diligent in giving God our best when it comes to the songs we sing. It takes some time and you’ll need to work on what songs support the message, but with some time and determination you can bring the congregation to a closer understanding as we ‘sing with the Spirit’. Let me encourage you to spend time singing and thinking about the message in the songs. You will be amazed how medleys will begin to form in your mind as you sing with your heart.