Come Share the Lord

Reflecting on and remembering the death of the Lord Jesus is perhaps the best and most humbling thing one can do with their time. There are many ways we can reflect upon His death; however, there is one way we are commanded to. Each week the faithful children of God meet and reflect on the sacrifice and purpose of Christ’s death. We call this The Lord’s Supper or The Communion. To outsiders, it might seem strange that we take part in what we do. To Christians, we should fully understand the act of worship. The Lord’s Supper is not just a time where we reflect on the death and sacrifice of Christ, but a time where we think about the opportunity of a new life that we have been given through His resurrection, because “The Lord who pours the cup is risen from the dead.”!

In First Corinthians 11, we read of Paul reflecting on the Lord’s death. In the context, Paul has to remind the Corinthian church of why it is important to do so. “For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus on the same night in which He was betrayed took bread; and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, ‘Take, eat; this is My body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me.’ In the same manner He also took the cup after supper saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.’ For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes.” (I Cor.‬ ‭11:23-26‬ ‭NKJV‬‬).

One of my favorite songs about the Lord’s Supper is Come Share the Lord. Not only is it a beautifully written song with each verse seamlessly leading into a chorus that evokes great emotion and expresses the great love that we have burning within our hearts “like living flame(s)”; it is a song that causes one to emotionally think of the death of our Savior and the holy communion with Christ that all Christians should continue to remember and praise God for.

“We gather…” as a family and “He joins us…”, and soon we’ll all be together where “…angels sing.”. He desires us all to be together when we “come take the bread…”. The next time you sing this song, don’t just sing it as an encouragement to those around you, reflect inwardly.

Will YOU come and share the Lord?

1, September 27, 20141, September 27, 2014

The Sign of the Covenant…Sept. 28th

A verbal commitment is binding, and yet an agreement that is documented (written) is stronger still. But what about an agreement between two individuals that has physical implications? A physical sign of what we have agreed upon. A handshake is physical, but is there more to it when it comes to our agreement, our covenant, with God?

In the Old Testament we read of the ‘physical’ covenant between God and man in Genesis chapter 17 when God said to Abraham…“Now as for you, you shall keep My covenant, you and your descendants after you throughout their generations. This is My covenant, which you shall keep, between Me and you and your descendants after you: every male among you shall be circumcised. And you shall be circumcised in the flesh of your foreskin, and it shall be the sign of the covenant between Me and you…” A very physical sign to be sure, but what about us today? If we have a covenant with God, is it more than just verbal and written? What is our “Sign of the Covenant?”

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

Sunday morning, September 28, 2014

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

“I’m Not Ashamed to Own My Lord” – 609

Just looking at the title of this familiar song, you should ask yourself, ‘what does it mean to “own” Him?’ Perhaps in easier terms we might say, do you openly profess your obedience to God? If I’m loyal to God, and if I publicly proclaim Him then how often do I defend His cause? Do you know, His cause? Children of the covenant know, and we must never be ashamed to own our Lord.

“He’s My King” – 166

Immediately following after “I’m Not Ashamed to Own My Lord,” we’ll sing this spiritual song of confirmation. Not only am I willing to proclaim my loyal covenant to Him…I sing with conviction that He is my King! Let’s sing of our love for Him, and be sure…‘none other is above Him.’

“Hallelujah! What a Savior” – 337

Before the Lord’s Supper we’ll sing the first two verses of this song written by Philip Bliss in the late 1800’s. Remember that Jesus was scoffed and shamed as He stood condemned in our spot. But why? To reclaim us, the ‘ruined sinner,’ and to pardon us with His blood. What a Savior!

“Why Did My Savior Come to Earth” – 382

Taking just the first verse we’ll sing before the bread. Then, between the bread and the fruit of the vine, we’ll sing verse two. When was the last time you really focused on these words: “Why did my Savior come to earth, and go to the humble (insignificant, inferior)? Why did He chose to be born in a barn (a lowly birth)? And why did He drink the bitter cup of sorrow, pain and woe (trouble)? Why did He allow mankind to lift Him up on the cross? Do you know the answer to these questions? They can be found in this children’s song; “Jesus loves me, this I know!”

“I Come to the Garden Alone” – 595

As we conclude our time around the Lord’s Supper we’ll reflect on a song we’ve song for years. Though it’s poetic, it could have been the thoughts of Mary Magdalene as she came to the tomb of Jesus on the first day of the week. Maybe…maybe not, but she would have been one to say, “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.” Read through John 20 and see for yourself if these could have been Mary’s words.

“O Jesus, I Have Promised” – 554

Also referred to as “The Angel’s Song” we can sing of our covenant relationship with God. Do you promise to serve Him to the end?

“Ancient Words” – no book

‘Ancient words, ever true, changing me and changing you!’ Perhaps the next line of this contemporary song is the challenge for you and I today. Can we honestly sing what comes next? Have you come with an open heart? Are you ready for the word of God to be imparted to you? If so, when this lesson is concluded what will your reply be? What a blessing that these “Holy words” have been long preserved so we can see…a sign of the covenant.

“O Master Let Me Walk with Thee” – 763

An invitation song to consider our covenant with our King. Will you walk with Him? Will you serve Him? Will you claim Him publicly? Why is it we so often consider our promise with God, our covenant with our Savior, as something we can pick up and put down at will? Perhaps the sign of our covenant with Christ must be more than just words if we are to be pleasing to God.

“Live for Jesus” – 594

How will you live this week? Who will you serve? Notice our second verse as we close the worship time together; “Live for Jesus, wandering sinner, under Satan serve no more; of the promised prize a winner thou may’st be when life is o’er…” If you are living in sin, you’re living for Satan. Convert (turn around) and live for Jesus. The sign of your covenant with God is your life and when it’s over, if you’ve been loyal, you’ll win the prize of heaven.

1, January 24, 2014

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

Every 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!

“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.”

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, August 16, 20131, August 16, 2013

The Hypocritic Oath…August 18th

Physicians, historically, work under a Hippocratic oath. It means they promise to ‘practice medicine honestly.’ Part of the oath includes the following: “I will prescribe regimens for the good of my patients…and never do harm to anyone… I will give no deadly medicine to any one…nor suggest any such counsel…I will preserve the purity of my life and my arts…In every house where I come I will enter only for the good of my patients…All that may come to my knowledge in the exercise of my profession, I will keep secret and will never reveal…If I keep this oath faithfully, may I enjoy my life and practice my art, respected by all humanity and in all times; but if I swerve from it or violate it, may the reverse be my life.”

OK, but what is a Hypocritic Oath? Not hard to recognize a hypocrite (one who pretends to be what he’s not), but how could that be placed in the same title as ‘oath?’ Could we be ‘promising’ something we’re not willing to do? Join us Sunday morning as Robert Taylor takes us closer to understanding this mystery.

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

Sunday morning, August 18, 2013

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

“Hosanna” -167

Praise to God! That’s the definition of the word “Hosanna”…Praise to God in the highest. Gentlemen, lead the congregation as you open the chorus; “Lord, we lift up Your name, with hearts filled with praise; So be exalted, O Lord my God, Hosanna, in the highest!”

“Lord, We Come Before Thee Now” – 797

A song of prayer, a hymn we sing to our God proclaiming our desire to approach His throne. But what could we mean by ‘…O do not our suit disdain…”; what’s a ‘suit’ and how can it be disdained? The suit is the plea, the appeal we make before God. Our request is that He will not reject or turn away our plea. Notice the words; “Lord, we come before Thee now; at Thy feet we humbly bow. O do not our suit (plea) disdain (reject), shall we seek Thee, Lord, in vain?” Find the message in the next line…“Lord, on Thee our souls depend…”. If we are rejected by God what hope do we have?

“When My Love to Christ Grows Weak” – 350

Do you ever find your ‘love for Christ’ growing weak? How about your love for mankind? This song gives you the remedy for those times of ‘weakness’. We do have a place we can turn…This morning we’ll sing all five verses of this song as we remember the Lord’s Supper.

“I’m Not Ashamed to Own My Lord” – 609

Often when ‘put on the spot’ we have a tendency to deny what’s truly important, what we hold dear. A child is questioned about following his parents rules and he might say, “I don’t have to do what they say…” So it is with many in their relationship with God. I don’t have to do EVERYTHING the Bible says. When you are questioned about your faith do you deny Him? Are you ashamed of Him? Let’s live so we ‘maintain the honor of His word…”

“The Greatest Commands” – 448

A great contemporary song that provides each of the four basic parts an opportunity to sing their individual lines, yet all in harmony. Notice each of these verses come from the scripture; I John 4:7, 8, I Corinthians 13:7 and Christ’s words in Luke as He says, “Love the Lord, thy God with all thy heart, with all thy soul, all thy strength all thy mind…”; a beautiful soprano line. But do you know which part (bass, tenor or alto) sings I Corinthians 13:7?

“All to Jesus I Surrender” – 662

What does it mean ‘surrender all?’ When a wrestler throws in the towel, is he giving up for just a few minutes or is he giving up the whole match? When we give our lives over to God, we must leave the world behind…entirely! Unfortunately, many are willing to just give up enough to feel comfortable with their Christianity. Maybe what we should be asking is, ‘what part of ALL do you not understand?’

“Let the Lower Lights Be Burning” – 642

The lower lights…how important are the lower lights when the tall, majestic light house is perched on the hill? Maybe you should ask a sailor who is tossed by the stormy waves on the dark sea. A faithful row of lights illuminating the darkness can mean life and death to some who are close to the reef. My job is to keep my lamps trimmed (burning), regardless of how ‘feeble’ I may think my lamps to be.

“Ring Out the Message” – 622

One of the most stirring, spiritual songs is found in this call to evangelize. Again, the male voices lead the chorus as we sing “Ring out the news that makes men free…to all the lost of every nation, ring the message out!”

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, April 12, 20131, April 12, 2013

Parents Need Only Two Prayers…April 14th

A representative from a lesser known media outlet made the following statement earlier this week; “…we’ve always had kind of a private notion of children: Your kid is yours and totally your responsibility. We haven’t had a very collective notion of, ‘these are our children.’ So part of it is we have to break through our kind of private idea that kids belong to their parents, or kids belong to their families, and recognize that kids belong to whole communities…”

For years we have embraced the notion, “It takes a whole village to raise a child.” We must never forget God’s instruction is for parents to bring their children up in the Lord, Ephesians 6:1-4. Mothers and fathers (Families, not communities) are responsible for raising children. Proverbs 6:20, “My son, observe the commandment of your father and do not forsake the teaching of your mother.” There are some who would like the passage to read…My son, observe the commandment of your community leader and do not forsake the teaching of your neighbor.

This coming Sunday morning our lesson will be focused on how parents prepare for children, and how parents come to understand the obligation of bringing their children to God. As always, I hope you’ll remember the inspired words of Paul from the 14th chapter of I Corinthians; “…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.”

Sunday morning, April 14, 2013

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

“I Will Call Upon the Lord” – 63

Our opening song, the ‘call to worship’, comes from the book of Psalms, chapter 18:3…almost word for word. Penned in 1981, this contemporary psalm provides the singer a strong opportunity to express our deepest desire to ‘call upon the Lord.’

“Father, Hear the Prayer We Offer” – 777

Written over 150 years ago, this song is filled with poetry that stirs the heart…if you’ll take the time to examine the message. Notice the reference to Old Testament scripture in verse 2, “Not forever by still waters would we idly, quiet stay; but would smite the living fountains from the rocks along our way.” (Read Exodus 17: 5, 6)

“When My Love for Christ Grows Weak” – 350

Before we partake of the Lord’s Supper, we’ll sing this old spiritual song that reminds us to stay close to Christ. As we sing the first two verses we are reminded of Christ in the garden. The 3rd and 4th verses take us to Calvary as we sing, “There behold His agony, suffered on the bitter tree; see His anguish, see His faith…” But the final verse encourages us to learn from Christ, and to become self-sacrificing.

“More Precious than Silver” – 273

One of my favorite hymns (we are singing this song to our God) starts with the words, “Lord, You are more precious than silver…”. A song, as you look more closely at it, professing our desire for God and for God alone. We sing that He is more precious than silver…more costly than gold…more beautiful than diamonds. So I ask you, do I really believe that, or are you just singing it? Remember I Corinthian 14:15…

“When He Cometh” – 714

Known in some circles as a ‘child’s hymn’, this spiritual song reminds us that God will come back and take (collect) his children home. The chorus is an interesting analogy; “Like the stars of the morning, His bright crown adorning, they shall shine in their beauty, bright gems for His crown.” Who will shine in their beauty? Take a look at verse 3…“Little children, little children who love their Redeemer are the jewels, precious jewels, His loved and His own.”

“I Will Pray” – 840

“Father, in the morning…At the noontide…in the evening shadows…I will pray…Morning, noon and evening unto Thee I’ll pray.” How often do we pray? When times are tough and the going get’s rough? Perhaps when we’re happy and content. But read I Thessalonians 5:17, Paul tells us in to, “Pray without ceasing…” That would be morning, noon and evening!

“Hark! ‘Tis the Shepherd’s Voice” – 880

Another ‘children’s hymn’, this song calls for us to take on the responsibility of bringing our children (the lost) back to the fold of Christ. The words of Jesus from Matthew 18 sum it up pretty well; “What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine and go the mountains to seek the one that is straying?” Let’s sing and then let’s ‘bring them in!’

“God’s Family” – 744

As we close the service this morning, we’ll sing about the family of God. Do we really see each other as brothers and sisters? Can we say we laugh together? How often have you cried with a brother or sister in Christ? Do we share with each other our heartaches and sighs? When was the last time you shared your dreams with the family of God? On Sunday morning we should do more than just say “Hi…how are you doing?” as we hurry away to lunch. Remember, we are part of the family…that’s been born again!

1, April 5, 20131, April 16, 2013

Does Anyone Know?…April 7th

Sunday morning, April 7th at Waterview church of Christ, we’ll be honored to hear a lesson from Kent Allen. Brother Allen is VP for Advancement for Oklahoma Christian University, and his message is sure to inspire us as we consider our outward display of faith.

Perhaps you’ve heard the comment; if you were on trial for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you? This morning we’ll consider just how much the world knows about OUR faith in God. We have the opportunity, better yet the obligation, to show Christ to a lost and dying world. The songs this morning are designed to make us think about our shining light.

“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.”

I Corinthians 14:15

Sunday morning, April 7, 2013

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

“Christ for the World We Sing” – 626

Have you looked closely at the first line in all three verses of this song? Notice: “Christ for the world!” That’s a statement we loudly proclaim and boldly sing. And we sing it with 1) loving zeal, 2) with fervent prayer and 3) in one accord. We sing this message to the world, but we also have a responsibility to bring the world to Christ.

“We Will Glorify” – 578

Written over 30 years ago, this song is still contemporary to many of us. Twila Paris made it popular, but our God is the reason we sing it. Perhaps the closing statement from the first and fourth verses needs more examination and great proclamation; “…the Lord of lords, Who is the great I AM.” John 8:58 “Jesus said to them, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was born, I Am.”

“In My Life, Lord, Be Glorified” – 309

Before we bow in prayer, we’ll sing this hymn as we sing to Him! The first verse is very personal, “In my life, Lord, be glorified…” but in the second verse we’ll change it to the plural form, “In our songs, Lord, be glorified…” And finally we’ll close the song to include the Lord’s church; “In Your church, Lord, be glorified…”

“Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus” – 648

Brother Kent Allen has requested this song to serve as our ‘song before the lesson.’ What a great way to admonish each other to live a life that puts Christ first. Have you thought about this song lately? We are singing about the armor of God (Ephesians 6), and in the third verse we’re reminded of the weakness we have in the flesh; “…Stand in HIS strength alone; the arm of flesh will fail you, ye dare not trust your own” But what does the author mean when he writes, “…put on the gospel armor; and watching unto prayer…” Remember, ‘unto’ is a preposition that can mean ‘by’. So with that in mind; we have on the armor of God and we’re waiting (watching) by means of prayer. See Ephesians 6:18, “With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert…”

“In the Hour of Trial” – 767

Not a typical ‘invitation song’, but this will serve us well this morning. Take a close look at verse one; “…Jesus plead for me, lest by base denial I depart from Thee; When Thou seest me waiver, with a look recall…” Remember Luke 22 when Christ is on trial? Peter adamantly denies knowing Jesus (base denial, as an adjective, ‘base’ can mean ‘contemptible’) and then in Luke 22:61, “The Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord…”. With a look recall (help me to remember)…

“Lamb of God” – 176

We’ll remember the Lord’s supper this morning after our lesson as we sing this beautiful song, again written by Twila Paris. A song that we sing to our Father (a hymn). God’s gift of love (the Lamb of God) is crucified for our sins. He is scorned, mocked, defamed…and sacrificed. “Like a lamb that is led to slaughter” (Isaiah 53:7) “I love the holy Lamb of God.”

“O For a Faith That Will Not Shrink” – 540

As we close the service this morning, remember our lesson; “Does Anyone Know (you’re a Christian)? The words of this song were written by W. H. Bathurst in 1831. Oh that we would all have a faith in God that doesn’t shrink away in difficult times. A faith that doesn’t complain or ‘whine’ when troubles come. A faith that shines more bright and clear. With this kind of faith, even while here on earth, we’ll ‘taste the bliss’ of heaven.

1, March 29, 20131, March 29, 2013

He Is Risen…March 31st

Sunday morning, March 31st, is known in some ‘religious circles’ as Easter Sunday. Many god-fearing people select this Sunday as a time to commemorate our Lord’s resurrection…

However, at Waterview church of Christ, every Sunday we remember (memorialize) our Lord’s death, burial and resurrection. Together, we share in the Lord’s Supper. This week, March 31^st, will be no different. When you read Matthew 28: 1-7, you’ll read of the miracle surrounding Christ’s resurrection, and in that we find the title of our lesson. The following ‘order of worship’ is designed to focus on minds on our Savior’s resurrection; today and every Sunday!

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

Hallelujah! Praise Jehovah – 3

This hymn of praise (which could also be considered a psalm since it parallels Psalm 148) admonishes the singer to recognize and glorify our Father. You’ll notice the word ‘praise’ is mentioned 10 times in this hymn…5 times in verse 1 alone.

You Are the Song that I Sing – 238

“You are the words and the music, You are the song that I sing…” Without a notation of authorship or composer this ‘contemporary’ hymn is an excellent example of a song sung to our God. When you sing this song ask yourself if you will truly do as this song states in its closing line? “…so now I give back to You the song that You gave to me…”

Thomas’ Song – 269

One of my favorite ‘communion’ songs, Thomas’ Song, is a possible (yet not recorded) narrative from the apostle Thomas as he considers the resurrection of Christ. John 20:25 reads, “Unless I see the nail marks in His hands, and put my finger where the nails where, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe it.” While the chorus sings, “If I could only hold Your hand, and touch the scars where nails were driven; I would need to feel Your side where holy flesh by spear was riven. Then I’d believe…” But listen to Thomas’ closing statement as he stands before Christ and proclaims, “You are my Lord and my God!”

Alas! And Did My Savior Bleed – 324

An interesting song that was written in two time periods. The verses were written by Isaac Watts in 1707, while the refrain (by Ralph E. Hudson) came almost 180 years later. On a personal note, I prefer the verse separate from the upbeat tempo of the chorus. But more importantly let me direct you to the closing line from the first verse, “…would He devote that sacred head for such a worm as I?” Over the years this verse was edited to read, “…would He devote that sacred head for such a ONE as I?” Ask yourself, which version do you prefer…and why?

Low in the Grave He Lay – 344

When we sing this song following the Lord’s Supper Sunday morning, we’ll sing all three verses before we sing the chorus. My personal preference since the verses are designed to be melancholy and thoughtful, while the chorus changes tempo to excitement and jubilation. And certainly it should be as we proclaim; “Hallelujah! Christ arose.”

Surround Us, Lord – no book

Taken from Psalm 125:2, this ‘psalm’ serves as a great ‘spiritual song’, encouraging the singer and the listener to understand that, “…we need to be in Your (God’s) presence.” Listen to the YouTube link below if you are interested in learning it, or just want to sing it again!

He Lives! – 346

“…You ask me how I know he lives? He lives within my heart.” These words serve as the conclusion to a wonderful song of joy and adoration. This song, before our lesson, resounds with the declaration, the title:
“HE LIVES!”

Have You Been to Jesus – 904

These next two songs, our invitation and closing song, call for us to be ‘washed in the blood of the Lamb’ and to find our assurance in Him. But before we close the invitation we’ll repeat the chorus with one more call to respond. But then we’ll close with the following:

Blessed Assurance – 480

As we close this time of worship would that all Christians sing the chorus of this song with a stronger conviction and a clearer understanding. “This is my story, this is my song, Praising my Savior all the day long…” Let that soak in for a minute, praising God all day long? Would you, can you, will you praise God 24-7? You can and you will if you truly believe that…He Is Risen!

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.