So the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “And He was numbered with the transgressors.” [Mark 15:28]
Dr. Luke begins the second chapter of his God inspired Gospel informing us of a census that was being taken as ordered by Caesar Augustus. It was to count everyone that had been born in Bethlehem so that he could tax every one of them and their property. Kind of sounds like what our government does today! It was during this process that Jesus was born. God could have birthed Him at any time He chose, but He chose this time that the Scriptures might be fulfilled. Being born in the City of David He would be counted as another citizen. Just another baby boy added to the census. At His death Jesus was crucified with two transgressors, taking the place of an actual transgressor, (Barabbas), and as Isaiah 53:12 tells us, taking our place too. Now we see at His birth He was counted as one of us again; being counted just like every one else was in that day. All this happened as it did for one reason; that YOU may know that God came for YOU. He came into the world just like you did, by way of a woman. He left the world just like you will; being separated from your human body. His birth and His death was all for us so that when the time comes for us to leave this body we can go to be where He is. Now you know why the angel said, “I bring good tidings of great joy!”
Monday, December 20, 2010
Monday, December 13, 2010
Oh yeah, He really came!
The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. (John 1:14 and 1 John 1 NIV)
Reality to the majority of mankind is defined or proven by the five senses; sight, taste, touch, smell, and hearing. If we cannot see it, taste it, touch (feel) it, smell it, or hear it; it may not exist! That is why I am so thankful that our Creator inspired St. John to give us his testimony in regards to God becoming “real” in humanity. John could have easily said that the Word became flesh and left it at that, but he goes on to let us know that he saw Him with his eyes, he heard Him with his ears, and he touched Him with his hands! No doubt he even smelled Him in between baths, just like all the rest of the guys! Jesus was as much human as any of us are; including you.
That is another reason Christ came. We cannot say that God does not know what it is like being human. He knows exactly what it is like to experience life as a human. Christmas is a time of reflection for Christians and time of turmoil for others. That night in Bethlehem the Almighty God came to dwell among His people and by way of His Holy Spirit; is still with us today! I have not seen Him, I have not touched Him, I have not smelled Him; but I have felt Him in my heart and so can you if you will believe what the Bible has to say about Him! He came to experience you; now why don’t you experience Him?
Reality to the majority of mankind is defined or proven by the five senses; sight, taste, touch, smell, and hearing. If we cannot see it, taste it, touch (feel) it, smell it, or hear it; it may not exist! That is why I am so thankful that our Creator inspired St. John to give us his testimony in regards to God becoming “real” in humanity. John could have easily said that the Word became flesh and left it at that, but he goes on to let us know that he saw Him with his eyes, he heard Him with his ears, and he touched Him with his hands! No doubt he even smelled Him in between baths, just like all the rest of the guys! Jesus was as much human as any of us are; including you.
That is another reason Christ came. We cannot say that God does not know what it is like being human. He knows exactly what it is like to experience life as a human. Christmas is a time of reflection for Christians and time of turmoil for others. That night in Bethlehem the Almighty God came to dwell among His people and by way of His Holy Spirit; is still with us today! I have not seen Him, I have not touched Him, I have not smelled Him; but I have felt Him in my heart and so can you if you will believe what the Bible has to say about Him! He came to experience you; now why don’t you experience Him?
Monday, December 6, 2010
The Virgin Birth: Totally Important!
Hey Guys, sorry about last week; got busy. Here is our message for today!
Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a Son, and will call His name Immanuel. (Isaiah 7:14 NIV)
Virtually impossible one would think today. Science has not yet been able to “clone” a human nor will they ever do it without Gods intervention. A virgin conceiving a child is not possible either; with man. I know they implant embryos and end up with octomoms, but there was still a human male involved. Listen, the Embryo implanted in Mary was not touched by mans hands, (or any other part). God Himself, implanted Himself, into a human body, by way of the Holy Spirit! Wow! How miraculous is that? Some say it does not matter if Jesus was born of a virgin or not; they are wrong. It does matter; totally! If Mary was not a virgin then Jesus was obscured. His Blood would have had contaminated DNA. Contaminated blood, from sinful man, would not cleanse anyone from sin. No my friend, He was pure of human infirmities even though He suffered human frailties. Mary was human and was not without sin being a human, but she was a virgin and she found favor with God! She is blessed among women for giving birth to our Savior, but she is not the Mother of God, she is simply the servant He used to get here among us! Glory to God in the highest! Amen, forever and ever!
Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a Son, and will call His name Immanuel. (Isaiah 7:14 NIV)
Virtually impossible one would think today. Science has not yet been able to “clone” a human nor will they ever do it without Gods intervention. A virgin conceiving a child is not possible either; with man. I know they implant embryos and end up with octomoms, but there was still a human male involved. Listen, the Embryo implanted in Mary was not touched by mans hands, (or any other part). God Himself, implanted Himself, into a human body, by way of the Holy Spirit! Wow! How miraculous is that? Some say it does not matter if Jesus was born of a virgin or not; they are wrong. It does matter; totally! If Mary was not a virgin then Jesus was obscured. His Blood would have had contaminated DNA. Contaminated blood, from sinful man, would not cleanse anyone from sin. No my friend, He was pure of human infirmities even though He suffered human frailties. Mary was human and was not without sin being a human, but she was a virgin and she found favor with God! She is blessed among women for giving birth to our Savior, but she is not the Mother of God, she is simply the servant He used to get here among us! Glory to God in the highest! Amen, forever and ever!
Monday, November 22, 2010
Truly Thankful? Then Show Him!
6 As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, 7 rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving. [Colossians 2:6-7]
Once again we are coming upon the Thanksgiving holiday here in the U.S.A. I love the holidays! Thanksgiving for some is a day of remembrance; remembering all that God has done for us. Remembering how blessed we are. For many it is the only time of year they ever give God a second thought and yet for others, they never even acknowledge Him on that day. For many the prayer around the dinner table will be nothing more than a ritual.
The Apostle puts thanksgiving into perspective for us from Gods point of view. For the Christian every day should be thanksgiving. Our life, our daily walk with Him, should reflect how thankful we are for what Jesus has done for us. If we are really thankful then we will do more than just say we are. We will learn more about Him, become better servants of Him, and trust Him more each day. That He may know we are truly thankful for what He has done for us. Let us not only tell Him how thankful we are but let’s show Him!
Once again we are coming upon the Thanksgiving holiday here in the U.S.A. I love the holidays! Thanksgiving for some is a day of remembrance; remembering all that God has done for us. Remembering how blessed we are. For many it is the only time of year they ever give God a second thought and yet for others, they never even acknowledge Him on that day. For many the prayer around the dinner table will be nothing more than a ritual.
The Apostle puts thanksgiving into perspective for us from Gods point of view. For the Christian every day should be thanksgiving. Our life, our daily walk with Him, should reflect how thankful we are for what Jesus has done for us. If we are really thankful then we will do more than just say we are. We will learn more about Him, become better servants of Him, and trust Him more each day. That He may know we are truly thankful for what He has done for us. Let us not only tell Him how thankful we are but let’s show Him!
Monday, November 15, 2010
Life 101: The Seasons
To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven: (Ecclesiastes 3:1 NKJV)
King Solomon was a very wise man. His wisdom came as a gift from God that he may govern the people of Israel justly. He was also street smart, gaining this knowledge from trial and error! After having everything he wanted and doing everything he wanted to do he finally concluded that the only thing that really matters in life is to “Fear God and keep His commandments.”
His introduction to his testimony of experiencing Life 101 gives us insight and foreknowledge of what we can expect in what some may consider a mundane life while yet others seem to be having the time of their lives. It all depends on what season you are in. Not the earthly seasons but our personal times of life. Age can be a factor as we grow older. It seems the older I get the more I begin to appreciate things I used to take for granted!
These seasons that the Bible talks about here, I believe, are the times in our life that we experience all the things Solomon lists in verses two through eight. He starts with being born and ends with peace! All the other stuff in between is what life consists of. The lesson I get from this passage is that whatever I may be going through right now, it is just a season. I have had seasons of sorrow and of happiness, just as Solomon wrote about. I have also learned, as Solomon did, that God is the key to peace in all the seasons! Solomon found out the hard way that peace can only come from God; trying to find it in anything else is vanity; a waste of time.
Jesus is not called the Prince of Peace for nothing! So whatever season you are in right now, enjoyable or not so enjoyable, let Christ bring peace into it.
King Solomon was a very wise man. His wisdom came as a gift from God that he may govern the people of Israel justly. He was also street smart, gaining this knowledge from trial and error! After having everything he wanted and doing everything he wanted to do he finally concluded that the only thing that really matters in life is to “Fear God and keep His commandments.”
His introduction to his testimony of experiencing Life 101 gives us insight and foreknowledge of what we can expect in what some may consider a mundane life while yet others seem to be having the time of their lives. It all depends on what season you are in. Not the earthly seasons but our personal times of life. Age can be a factor as we grow older. It seems the older I get the more I begin to appreciate things I used to take for granted!
These seasons that the Bible talks about here, I believe, are the times in our life that we experience all the things Solomon lists in verses two through eight. He starts with being born and ends with peace! All the other stuff in between is what life consists of. The lesson I get from this passage is that whatever I may be going through right now, it is just a season. I have had seasons of sorrow and of happiness, just as Solomon wrote about. I have also learned, as Solomon did, that God is the key to peace in all the seasons! Solomon found out the hard way that peace can only come from God; trying to find it in anything else is vanity; a waste of time.
Jesus is not called the Prince of Peace for nothing! So whatever season you are in right now, enjoyable or not so enjoyable, let Christ bring peace into it.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Tell Them Anyway.
Some were convinced by what he said, but others would not believe. (Acts 28:24 NKJV)
My wife and I were in a fast food joint when our twins were about three years old. She was keeping them corralled why I was heading to the counter to order. “You guys sit here and be good, I will be right back with your stuff,” I told them. An older gent was seated right behind us. As I passed by he said, “Son, you know you are telling those boys to do something they are not going to do,” and he laughed. “I know,” I said, “But I want them to hear it anyway!”
Sometimes I can hear his words still echoing in the far back of my mind when I come out of the pulpit. The first sermon I ever preached I expected the people to run to the altar and cry out to God saying, “O Lord, please forgive us and save us!” It never happened though. If there is any discouragement in preaching or witnessing it is the same as Paul faced in Rome. Although many never believed him, he never let that discourage him. We can learn from his experience. We witness, preach, and testify for those who will be convinced by our message and respond to it. As for the rest of them, well, they need to hear it anyway.
My wife and I were in a fast food joint when our twins were about three years old. She was keeping them corralled why I was heading to the counter to order. “You guys sit here and be good, I will be right back with your stuff,” I told them. An older gent was seated right behind us. As I passed by he said, “Son, you know you are telling those boys to do something they are not going to do,” and he laughed. “I know,” I said, “But I want them to hear it anyway!”
Sometimes I can hear his words still echoing in the far back of my mind when I come out of the pulpit. The first sermon I ever preached I expected the people to run to the altar and cry out to God saying, “O Lord, please forgive us and save us!” It never happened though. If there is any discouragement in preaching or witnessing it is the same as Paul faced in Rome. Although many never believed him, he never let that discourage him. We can learn from his experience. We witness, preach, and testify for those who will be convinced by our message and respond to it. As for the rest of them, well, they need to hear it anyway.
Monday, November 1, 2010
The Holy Nation must vote!
But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; (1 Peter 2:9 NKJV)
Election Day 2010 is upon us and tomorrow millions will be heading out to the polls to vote for the person they are hoping that will help the Country and in return, help them in some way.
“Are you a Democrat or a Republican,” a friend once asked me. I told him that I was neither; but that I was a Christian. As Christians we are a part of the Holy Nation that St. Peter writes about here. We do not have a political party that elects candidates to represent us, we are governed by a Sovereign King and His name is Jesus! We are to represent Him! You and I are blessed in that God has placed us in this great Nation in which we live and we have a responsibility as good citizens of this Nation to cast our vote tomorrow. Men and women have fought and sacrificed their lives for our right to vote. When we fail to exercise that right that makes what they did for us all in vain. Check out the candidates and cast your vote for the one that you feel represents you and your values. Jesus expects us to vote if given the right, He said Himself: “Give to Caesar what is his, and give to God what is His.”
Election Day 2010 is upon us and tomorrow millions will be heading out to the polls to vote for the person they are hoping that will help the Country and in return, help them in some way.
“Are you a Democrat or a Republican,” a friend once asked me. I told him that I was neither; but that I was a Christian. As Christians we are a part of the Holy Nation that St. Peter writes about here. We do not have a political party that elects candidates to represent us, we are governed by a Sovereign King and His name is Jesus! We are to represent Him! You and I are blessed in that God has placed us in this great Nation in which we live and we have a responsibility as good citizens of this Nation to cast our vote tomorrow. Men and women have fought and sacrificed their lives for our right to vote. When we fail to exercise that right that makes what they did for us all in vain. Check out the candidates and cast your vote for the one that you feel represents you and your values. Jesus expects us to vote if given the right, He said Himself: “Give to Caesar what is his, and give to God what is His.”
Monday, October 25, 2010
Coffee beans, carrots, and eggs.
Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. (Romans 12:2 NLT)
Consider a coffee bean, a carrot, and an egg. If you place each one of them in a pot of boiling water each are affected but in different ways. The carrot becomes soft and squishy. The egg becomes hardened within its shell. The coffee bean though, transforms the water. It changes hot water into hot coffee.
The world that you and I live in today needs transforming: for the better of course. The world has a way of rubbing off on us and because of that we begin to think worldly. Negativity, criticism, and pessimism become character traits. Did you know that what you think will eventually control how you act or react? Paul was instructing a small group of Christians in a powerful empire which was inhabited by a large group of Jewish residents. It was easy for them to be persuaded by their society. You and I are surrounded by a godless society in a powerful empire too. Instead of allowing our surroundings to rub off on us, let’s allow God to transform us! Let’s allow Him to use us in such a way that we will be like the coffee bean. Instead of letting the people around us change us, let’s allow God to use us to change them.
Consider a coffee bean, a carrot, and an egg. If you place each one of them in a pot of boiling water each are affected but in different ways. The carrot becomes soft and squishy. The egg becomes hardened within its shell. The coffee bean though, transforms the water. It changes hot water into hot coffee.
The world that you and I live in today needs transforming: for the better of course. The world has a way of rubbing off on us and because of that we begin to think worldly. Negativity, criticism, and pessimism become character traits. Did you know that what you think will eventually control how you act or react? Paul was instructing a small group of Christians in a powerful empire which was inhabited by a large group of Jewish residents. It was easy for them to be persuaded by their society. You and I are surrounded by a godless society in a powerful empire too. Instead of allowing our surroundings to rub off on us, let’s allow God to transform us! Let’s allow Him to use us in such a way that we will be like the coffee bean. Instead of letting the people around us change us, let’s allow God to use us to change them.
Monday, October 18, 2010
King's Kids.
2 Corinthians 6:18: “I will be a Father to you, And you shall be My sons and daughters, Says the LORD Almighty.” (NKJV)
My little six year old niece was visiting us and her Uncle Al was bragging on her for the great scores she got on her level of reading evaluations. “You are a very smart little girl,” he said. She replied, “I am a genius you know.”
Needless to say that kid has no problem with low self esteem! I began to think about that in the context of how we view our position in Christ. I think sometimes we take for granted that because we are saved that is all Jesus has done for us. When we listen to these words penned by the Apostle Paul it assures us that Jesus not only died that we may have eternal life, but because we have accepted Him, we have been adopted into the Royal Family! We are sons and daughters of the King! I am certainly no genius but even I can figure out how important a position that is! To be a child of the King means that we have access to the Palace and the Throne Room! Jesus has opened a lot of important doors for us! The next time the enemy tries to convince you that no one cares about you, or that you are nothing; remind him that your Father, the King, cares because you are His kid!
My little six year old niece was visiting us and her Uncle Al was bragging on her for the great scores she got on her level of reading evaluations. “You are a very smart little girl,” he said. She replied, “I am a genius you know.”
Needless to say that kid has no problem with low self esteem! I began to think about that in the context of how we view our position in Christ. I think sometimes we take for granted that because we are saved that is all Jesus has done for us. When we listen to these words penned by the Apostle Paul it assures us that Jesus not only died that we may have eternal life, but because we have accepted Him, we have been adopted into the Royal Family! We are sons and daughters of the King! I am certainly no genius but even I can figure out how important a position that is! To be a child of the King means that we have access to the Palace and the Throne Room! Jesus has opened a lot of important doors for us! The next time the enemy tries to convince you that no one cares about you, or that you are nothing; remind him that your Father, the King, cares because you are His kid!
Monday, October 11, 2010
Autumn Leaves
1 John 5:11: And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son.
On a drive through the North Carolina Mountains I enjoyed the beautiful scenery highlighted by the changing leaves. It seemed as if it were only days ago that the green, lush foliage of summer blanketed the hillsides. Now, the orange, reds, and yellows were evidence that summer has passed and autumn has arrived. The scenery, as beautiful as it is, still reminded me of what lies ahead.
Many people are in the autumn of their lives. Youthful summer has somehow slipped away. Many become depressed when they think about it. They see their life on a downhill slide to winter. Others however are contented being in that season of their life. Jesus was crucified at a young age by our standards; around thirty three. However He was much older than that! He was in the beginning with God. In fact He was with God before there was a beginning! Eternity has no boundaries. No beginning and no end. We cannot fully grasp that concept because we measure time. Age becomes a factor as either young or old. In order to be content with aging we must be assured of eternal life. God has made it available to us through His Son Jesus Christ. If we have accepted Him as our Savior although the autumn of our lives will lead to a winter; we will find ourselves transitioned into an eternal Spring; never having to face another winter.
On a drive through the North Carolina Mountains I enjoyed the beautiful scenery highlighted by the changing leaves. It seemed as if it were only days ago that the green, lush foliage of summer blanketed the hillsides. Now, the orange, reds, and yellows were evidence that summer has passed and autumn has arrived. The scenery, as beautiful as it is, still reminded me of what lies ahead.
Many people are in the autumn of their lives. Youthful summer has somehow slipped away. Many become depressed when they think about it. They see their life on a downhill slide to winter. Others however are contented being in that season of their life. Jesus was crucified at a young age by our standards; around thirty three. However He was much older than that! He was in the beginning with God. In fact He was with God before there was a beginning! Eternity has no boundaries. No beginning and no end. We cannot fully grasp that concept because we measure time. Age becomes a factor as either young or old. In order to be content with aging we must be assured of eternal life. God has made it available to us through His Son Jesus Christ. If we have accepted Him as our Savior although the autumn of our lives will lead to a winter; we will find ourselves transitioned into an eternal Spring; never having to face another winter.
Monday, October 4, 2010
What's That Smell?
2 Corinthians 2:16 (New King James Version)
16 To the one we are the aroma of death leading to death, and to the other the aroma of life leading to life. And who is sufficient for these things?
Had your shower today? If not by now, more than likely you will before the day is through. If you choose not to bathe today than you are probably not going out in public! Of course there are those in our society who could care less about baths; mostly kids. One of our twins used to shower once a week whether he needed it or not. Do you think Paul is making a case for personal hygiene here? Me neither. Paul is using smell as an illustration of how people are attracted to Christ; or run away from Him! When Jesus went to raise Lazarus his sister said, “Don’t move that rock! He’s been in there four days! He stinketh!” No doubt. However Jesus brought the smell of life back to him. What odor are we giving off? Do those around us “smell” Jesus on us, or do we smell like a rotten egg? The smell of Christ starts with a clean heart and just like personal physical hygiene, stays clean with spiritual baths; daily. Remember what Jesus said; “A white washed tomb can hide rotten bones.” So let’s not only give off an appearance of Christ; let’s make sure we “smell” like Him too!
16 To the one we are the aroma of death leading to death, and to the other the aroma of life leading to life. And who is sufficient for these things?
Had your shower today? If not by now, more than likely you will before the day is through. If you choose not to bathe today than you are probably not going out in public! Of course there are those in our society who could care less about baths; mostly kids. One of our twins used to shower once a week whether he needed it or not. Do you think Paul is making a case for personal hygiene here? Me neither. Paul is using smell as an illustration of how people are attracted to Christ; or run away from Him! When Jesus went to raise Lazarus his sister said, “Don’t move that rock! He’s been in there four days! He stinketh!” No doubt. However Jesus brought the smell of life back to him. What odor are we giving off? Do those around us “smell” Jesus on us, or do we smell like a rotten egg? The smell of Christ starts with a clean heart and just like personal physical hygiene, stays clean with spiritual baths; daily. Remember what Jesus said; “A white washed tomb can hide rotten bones.” So let’s not only give off an appearance of Christ; let’s make sure we “smell” like Him too!
Monday, September 27, 2010
Truth is . . .
Pilate said to Him, “What is truth?” And when he had said this, he went out again to the Jews, and said to them, “I find no fault in Him at all.
(John 18:38 NKJV)
Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.
(John 17:17 NKJV)
Will you be glad when the elections are finally over? I mean, are you tired of all the political ads? Who do you believe? Who is telling the truth about whom? Even the politicians themselves can be confusing when answering a question asked them directly! Some say there is no absolute truth; they are wrong. Old Pilate asked that question thousands of years ago. Why didn’t Jesus answer him with the same words He used when He prayed to His Father in the garden the night before? So the Scripture would be fulfilled (Isaiah 53:7). Jesus knew that Pilate knew the truth; the problem is that Pilate refused to act on it; sounds a lot like some of us. Truth, like beauty it seems, is in the eye of the beholder these days. I saw a bumper sticker that read: “God said it. I believe it. That settles it.” Listen, it is settled whether we believe it or not. Because we believe it does not make it the truth: It is the truth because God said it.
(John 18:38 NKJV)
Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.
(John 17:17 NKJV)
Will you be glad when the elections are finally over? I mean, are you tired of all the political ads? Who do you believe? Who is telling the truth about whom? Even the politicians themselves can be confusing when answering a question asked them directly! Some say there is no absolute truth; they are wrong. Old Pilate asked that question thousands of years ago. Why didn’t Jesus answer him with the same words He used when He prayed to His Father in the garden the night before? So the Scripture would be fulfilled (Isaiah 53:7). Jesus knew that Pilate knew the truth; the problem is that Pilate refused to act on it; sounds a lot like some of us. Truth, like beauty it seems, is in the eye of the beholder these days. I saw a bumper sticker that read: “God said it. I believe it. That settles it.” Listen, it is settled whether we believe it or not. Because we believe it does not make it the truth: It is the truth because God said it.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Oh yeah, He knows.
Hebrews 5:14-16: Since we have a great High Priest, Jesus, the Son of God who has passed through the heavens from death into new life with God, let us hold tightly to our faith. For Jesus is not some high priest who has no sympathy for our weaknesses and flaws. He has already been tested in every way that we are tested; but He emerged victorious, without failing God. So let us step boldly to the throne of grace, where we can find mercy and grace to help when we need it most. (The Voice New Testament, Copyright 2008 Thomas Nelson Inc.)
Our daughter just entered the adventurous world of teenage adolescence. I can remember what it was like being thirteen. I was either on top of the world or it was crashing down around me; depending on the day. I can also remember what it was like for my parents! We have been through it as parents as well with the twins. The fact I was a teenager and have raised teenagers will be a great advantage for our daughter as we can sympathize with the issues associated with growing into maturity. That is exactly what God wants us to understand about Jesus. He knows what life is like here on earth. He knows the ups and downs we encounter. Because He has experienced life 101 here on the big ball He can readily relate to our growing pains and mistakes. We can go to Him and be assured He understands. The fact He overcame it is our encouragement that He can help us overcome it too! Imagine; a thirteen year old Jesus! Oh yeah, He knows.
Our daughter just entered the adventurous world of teenage adolescence. I can remember what it was like being thirteen. I was either on top of the world or it was crashing down around me; depending on the day. I can also remember what it was like for my parents! We have been through it as parents as well with the twins. The fact I was a teenager and have raised teenagers will be a great advantage for our daughter as we can sympathize with the issues associated with growing into maturity. That is exactly what God wants us to understand about Jesus. He knows what life is like here on earth. He knows the ups and downs we encounter. Because He has experienced life 101 here on the big ball He can readily relate to our growing pains and mistakes. We can go to Him and be assured He understands. The fact He overcame it is our encouragement that He can help us overcome it too! Imagine; a thirteen year old Jesus! Oh yeah, He knows.
Monday, September 13, 2010
The Gospel Will Prevail!
I have given them Your word; and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. (John 17:14 NKJV)
It goes without saying that the world is less tolerant of the Gospel today than it was a generation ago. There was a time that if people did not obey the Bible, they still had a respect for it. We saw last week how worried our government was over the threat made by the man in Florida to burn the Qur’ans. Fear was the motivating factor; how would the Muslims react? That is not the way to win people to Christ. How can we lead them to the Cross if we stand in front of it with an M-16?
Jesus said He did not come to bring peace, but division. He came to separate the world with the Gospel. When we believe the Gospel and submit our lives to Christ we go against the beliefs of the world. Jesus prayed for us that day in the Garden as He knew this day would come. Do not be discouraged or feel defeated because of your faith in Christ and the Bible; rejoice in the fact that you are seeing the Scripture fulfilled before your eyes! Regardless of what the media says, scholars dispute, or governments legislate; the Gospel will prevail!
It goes without saying that the world is less tolerant of the Gospel today than it was a generation ago. There was a time that if people did not obey the Bible, they still had a respect for it. We saw last week how worried our government was over the threat made by the man in Florida to burn the Qur’ans. Fear was the motivating factor; how would the Muslims react? That is not the way to win people to Christ. How can we lead them to the Cross if we stand in front of it with an M-16?
Jesus said He did not come to bring peace, but division. He came to separate the world with the Gospel. When we believe the Gospel and submit our lives to Christ we go against the beliefs of the world. Jesus prayed for us that day in the Garden as He knew this day would come. Do not be discouraged or feel defeated because of your faith in Christ and the Bible; rejoice in the fact that you are seeing the Scripture fulfilled before your eyes! Regardless of what the media says, scholars dispute, or governments legislate; the Gospel will prevail!
Monday, September 6, 2010
Salute to Labor
Genesis 3:17 (Gods Word Translation).
Then he said to the man, “You listened to your wife and ate fruit from the tree, although I commanded you, ‘You must never eat its fruit.’ The ground is cursed because of you. Through hard work you will eat food that comes from it every day of your life.”
Labor Day; a time to reflect upon the sacrifices men and women have made over the years to secure decent wages, benefits, and safe working environments for the working class. My uncle Joe was ninety two when he died but he told me something I have never forgotten: “It’s good to have all these people doing work with computers but Mike; somebody is going to have to dig the potatoes!” I think that is what God had in mind when He said this to Adam, don’t you?
We work to eat now. Some harder than others, some not at all, but someone still has to “till the ground” if we are to get food from it. God is still providing for us only now, we have to play a part in it! Someone once said, “I dig the ditch to get the money to buy the bread to get the energy to dig the ditch.” Each of us has a different “ditch” but all of us need the bread. So when we put food in our mouth today let us not forget those who made it possible nor the God who continues to provide it.
Then he said to the man, “You listened to your wife and ate fruit from the tree, although I commanded you, ‘You must never eat its fruit.’ The ground is cursed because of you. Through hard work you will eat food that comes from it every day of your life.”
Labor Day; a time to reflect upon the sacrifices men and women have made over the years to secure decent wages, benefits, and safe working environments for the working class. My uncle Joe was ninety two when he died but he told me something I have never forgotten: “It’s good to have all these people doing work with computers but Mike; somebody is going to have to dig the potatoes!” I think that is what God had in mind when He said this to Adam, don’t you?
We work to eat now. Some harder than others, some not at all, but someone still has to “till the ground” if we are to get food from it. God is still providing for us only now, we have to play a part in it! Someone once said, “I dig the ditch to get the money to buy the bread to get the energy to dig the ditch.” Each of us has a different “ditch” but all of us need the bread. So when we put food in our mouth today let us not forget those who made it possible nor the God who continues to provide it.
Monday, August 30, 2010
Learn or Burn
“Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow.” ~ Albert Einstein
They say that hind sight is twenty-twenty. When we look back following a mistake we have made, we can clearly see where we went wrong. “If only I had known” we say. Did you ever stop to think that the mistakes of our past prepared us for the future? Albert was on base when he made this statement. There is another statement that we need to be aware of us as well. It comes from the Book of Hebrews in the Bible: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8)
The only bad thing about making mistakes is not learning from them and we continue to repeat them. The fact that Jesus is the same as He ever was is encouraging to those of us who have made mistakes in our lives and with our lives. His death on the Cross paid for the sins we committed yesterday. If we sin today, He will forgive us for those too. The question is: are we learning from our mistakes? Forgiveness is available for the mistakes we make but judgment is reserved for us if we never learn from them. As the Apostle Paul wrote, “How can we who have died to sin live any longer in it?” Our hope rests in the resurrected Christ not upon our goodness, but God is into forgiving sin, not excusing it.
They say that hind sight is twenty-twenty. When we look back following a mistake we have made, we can clearly see where we went wrong. “If only I had known” we say. Did you ever stop to think that the mistakes of our past prepared us for the future? Albert was on base when he made this statement. There is another statement that we need to be aware of us as well. It comes from the Book of Hebrews in the Bible: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8)
The only bad thing about making mistakes is not learning from them and we continue to repeat them. The fact that Jesus is the same as He ever was is encouraging to those of us who have made mistakes in our lives and with our lives. His death on the Cross paid for the sins we committed yesterday. If we sin today, He will forgive us for those too. The question is: are we learning from our mistakes? Forgiveness is available for the mistakes we make but judgment is reserved for us if we never learn from them. As the Apostle Paul wrote, “How can we who have died to sin live any longer in it?” Our hope rests in the resurrected Christ not upon our goodness, but God is into forgiving sin, not excusing it.
Monday, August 23, 2010
He Knows. He Cares.
Two sparrows cost only a penny, but not even one of them can die without your Father's knowing it. (Matthew 10:29 NCV).
Entire passage: www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=matt%2010:29-31&version=NCV
Have you ever paid attention to the birds? I mean, have you ever really taken the time to just sit and watch them? How about when you are out and about, ever look around and take notice of them? Unless you are a birdwatcher; probably not! I like to sit on the deck and watch them but when I am on the go I generally never notice them.
Some people feel the same way in Gods eyes. They feel like He never even notices that they are suffering, worrying, scared, or broke. After all He does have a lot to do you know. There are wars being fought and floods taking place all around the world. How could He possible be concerned about my little problem?
He is concerned: about you. The God of the Universe, the Creator of all things; cares about little old you! You may never notice if a bird falls out of a tree but He does. He knows you so well He can tell you how many hairs were on your head yesterday, at birth, and even now! Never think He does not pay attention to you; He does. The question is do we pay attention to Him?
You may feel today as though no one cares or even knows about you or your troubles. God knows and cares. Do not just take my word for it; take His Word for it; talk to Him about it.
Entire passage: www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=matt%2010:29-31&version=NCV
Have you ever paid attention to the birds? I mean, have you ever really taken the time to just sit and watch them? How about when you are out and about, ever look around and take notice of them? Unless you are a birdwatcher; probably not! I like to sit on the deck and watch them but when I am on the go I generally never notice them.
Some people feel the same way in Gods eyes. They feel like He never even notices that they are suffering, worrying, scared, or broke. After all He does have a lot to do you know. There are wars being fought and floods taking place all around the world. How could He possible be concerned about my little problem?
He is concerned: about you. The God of the Universe, the Creator of all things; cares about little old you! You may never notice if a bird falls out of a tree but He does. He knows you so well He can tell you how many hairs were on your head yesterday, at birth, and even now! Never think He does not pay attention to you; He does. The question is do we pay attention to Him?
You may feel today as though no one cares or even knows about you or your troubles. God knows and cares. Do not just take my word for it; take His Word for it; talk to Him about it.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Never Beyond Forgiveness
“But go, tell His disciples—and Peter—that He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see Him, as He said to you.” (Mark 16:7 NKJV)
Our little five year old niece was playing the card game UNO with my wife, her sister, and their mother Saturday night. She was cheating and when they called her hand on it she got mad and quit. When they asked her to come back and play she said, “I’m not going to play unless you promise me you will not cheat me!”
I like the way the New King James Version translates this verse. Those two separator lines make it clear the angel emphasized that they were to tell Peter too! The last scene we see Peter in he is left crying because he had denied Jesus. Some translations say, “Tell His disciples and even Peter.” Another one says, “Tell His disciples, especially Peter.” Yet another says, “Tell His disciples, including Peter.” All are correct as the Greek rendering of the word is; and, also or even. If the angel had been Southern he may have said, “Go tell the guys, and even old Peter, that Jesus will meet ‘em all in Galilee.”
You and I were cheated out of eternal life by sin. God promised us that it would not happen again as He Himself paid the price of disobedience for us. We cheat sometimes against Him but I am so thankful that He shows us the same forgiveness that He did Peter! Think you have gone to far to be forgiven or to return to Christ? Then think about Peter and how God accepted him; He will do the same for you!
Our little five year old niece was playing the card game UNO with my wife, her sister, and their mother Saturday night. She was cheating and when they called her hand on it she got mad and quit. When they asked her to come back and play she said, “I’m not going to play unless you promise me you will not cheat me!”
I like the way the New King James Version translates this verse. Those two separator lines make it clear the angel emphasized that they were to tell Peter too! The last scene we see Peter in he is left crying because he had denied Jesus. Some translations say, “Tell His disciples and even Peter.” Another one says, “Tell His disciples, especially Peter.” Yet another says, “Tell His disciples, including Peter.” All are correct as the Greek rendering of the word is; and, also or even. If the angel had been Southern he may have said, “Go tell the guys, and even old Peter, that Jesus will meet ‘em all in Galilee.”
You and I were cheated out of eternal life by sin. God promised us that it would not happen again as He Himself paid the price of disobedience for us. We cheat sometimes against Him but I am so thankful that He shows us the same forgiveness that He did Peter! Think you have gone to far to be forgiven or to return to Christ? Then think about Peter and how God accepted him; He will do the same for you!
Monday, August 9, 2010
Deliberate Ignorance
5 They argued about this, saying, "If we answer, 'John's baptism was from God,' Jesus will say, 'Then why did you not believe him? (Luke 20:5, ESV)
Entire Chapter: www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+20&version=NCV
A preacher noticed a man sitting in the back with his fingers in his ears during his sermon. After church the preacher asked the man, “Why did you put your fingers in your ears while I was preaching?” The fellow replied, “I did not want to hear if I had committed sin or not, then I won’t be guilty!”
We may fool ourselves but we can never fool God. James said in his letter that we fool ourselves when we know what the Bible says yet we act as though we do not, (James 1:22). Mark Twain said, “It is not the parts of the Bible that I cannot understand that bother me; it is the parts that I can understand.” The men that day that asked Jesus who gave Him the authority to do and say all these things He was teaching and doing were “called on the carpet” by a simple question: Where do you think I get this authority? They knew it had to be from God but they did not want to admit it because they did not want to come under Jesus’ authority.
I realize there are those who may not know they need forgiveness of sin. I also know there are those who do not think about it, hoping their denial of the fact will somehow excuse them from judgment. Like the guy with his fingers in his ears.
Got sin? Then repent; admit it to God, ask Him to forgive you, and allow Christ to save you because deliberate ignorance is inexcusable by God.
Entire Chapter: www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+20&version=NCV
A preacher noticed a man sitting in the back with his fingers in his ears during his sermon. After church the preacher asked the man, “Why did you put your fingers in your ears while I was preaching?” The fellow replied, “I did not want to hear if I had committed sin or not, then I won’t be guilty!”
We may fool ourselves but we can never fool God. James said in his letter that we fool ourselves when we know what the Bible says yet we act as though we do not, (James 1:22). Mark Twain said, “It is not the parts of the Bible that I cannot understand that bother me; it is the parts that I can understand.” The men that day that asked Jesus who gave Him the authority to do and say all these things He was teaching and doing were “called on the carpet” by a simple question: Where do you think I get this authority? They knew it had to be from God but they did not want to admit it because they did not want to come under Jesus’ authority.
I realize there are those who may not know they need forgiveness of sin. I also know there are those who do not think about it, hoping their denial of the fact will somehow excuse them from judgment. Like the guy with his fingers in his ears.
Got sin? Then repent; admit it to God, ask Him to forgive you, and allow Christ to save you because deliberate ignorance is inexcusable by God.
Monday, August 2, 2010
God Comes First
"No one can serve two masters. The person will hate one master and love the other, or will follow one master and refuse to follow the other. You cannot serve both God and worldly riches.” (Matthew 6:24 NCV).
I am amazed today at how many folk have learned to multi-task. Housewives and stay at home moms as they were once called have been multi-tasking for years they just never had a term for it!
We have all at some point done more than one thing at a time. While doing one thing our minds are thinking ahead of what else we need to do. It is now spilling over into our service to our Lord I am afraid. Jesus gave a warning to the twelve about trying to serve two masters. He used the example of money or things of this world. A person cannot serve God with only half of his life. We must totally submit our entire lives to Him. Serving Him only when it is convenient is not serving at all but rather acknowledging. Being aware of Gods presence and actually serving Him are two different things. Let us heed the words of Christ today in our busy lives and get our priorities back in order. Let’s seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness.
I am amazed today at how many folk have learned to multi-task. Housewives and stay at home moms as they were once called have been multi-tasking for years they just never had a term for it!
We have all at some point done more than one thing at a time. While doing one thing our minds are thinking ahead of what else we need to do. It is now spilling over into our service to our Lord I am afraid. Jesus gave a warning to the twelve about trying to serve two masters. He used the example of money or things of this world. A person cannot serve God with only half of his life. We must totally submit our entire lives to Him. Serving Him only when it is convenient is not serving at all but rather acknowledging. Being aware of Gods presence and actually serving Him are two different things. Let us heed the words of Christ today in our busy lives and get our priorities back in order. Let’s seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Why, God?
"Will the one who contends with the Almighty correct him? Let him who accuses God answer him!" (Job 40:2)
Why God, why? How many times have we ever asked this question? Many times others try to comfort us by saying things like, “God knows what is best,” or, “All things work together for our good if we love Him.” Even though down deep in our heart we still trust God there are certain circumstances and situations which still cause us to question Him. God did not condemn Job for questioning Him, He simply asked Job; “Are you trying to tell Me what to do?” God is aware of our lack of understanding. It is our lack of trust in Him that He takes issue with. What He wants us to realize is that it is okay for us to question Him, but it is not okay to correct Him! He does what He wants to do and He allows what He chooses to allow therefore we need to take Job’s attitude: “Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?" If you are in a mess today take heart, He knows what He is doing.
Why God, why? How many times have we ever asked this question? Many times others try to comfort us by saying things like, “God knows what is best,” or, “All things work together for our good if we love Him.” Even though down deep in our heart we still trust God there are certain circumstances and situations which still cause us to question Him. God did not condemn Job for questioning Him, He simply asked Job; “Are you trying to tell Me what to do?” God is aware of our lack of understanding. It is our lack of trust in Him that He takes issue with. What He wants us to realize is that it is okay for us to question Him, but it is not okay to correct Him! He does what He wants to do and He allows what He chooses to allow therefore we need to take Job’s attitude: “Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?" If you are in a mess today take heart, He knows what He is doing.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Throwing Rocks
So when they continued asking Him, He raised Himself up and said to them, “He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first.” [John 8:7]
You know what Jesus means. You know exactly what He means! How many times have you thought this when you were judged by someone? Did you know that the majority of the un-churched in our society today do not attend because of this very reason? “Well,” we say, “If they are convicted when they come in, they should be.” Conviction is God’s job and He does it perfectly through His Holy Spirit; condemn is what we do. Jesus did not come to condemn the world He said, but to save it. He loved us first; warts and all. Should not we love others with the same attitude? Let me encourage you, as God encourages me, to tell others of His love for them and not my opinions of them.
May the Faith Be With You!
You know what Jesus means. You know exactly what He means! How many times have you thought this when you were judged by someone? Did you know that the majority of the un-churched in our society today do not attend because of this very reason? “Well,” we say, “If they are convicted when they come in, they should be.” Conviction is God’s job and He does it perfectly through His Holy Spirit; condemn is what we do. Jesus did not come to condemn the world He said, but to save it. He loved us first; warts and all. Should not we love others with the same attitude? Let me encourage you, as God encourages me, to tell others of His love for them and not my opinions of them.
May the Faith Be With You!
Monday, July 12, 2010
Imitate Me
I sat here on the deck this morning a little after daybreak and watched a fledgling cardinal making its way to one of my feeders. It was flapping its wings so fast I could not see them moving. It looked to me like it was struggling to fly. After landing on the feeder it was joined by an adult cardinal. His beautiful bright red plumage accented the black feeder. The thought came to me about what the Apostle said in regards to fledgling believers: *“ So as your father in the faith, I want to encourage you to live as I have lived. Imitate my life.” Did you know that many of us never feel worthy enough to tell someone to imitate our life? The little bird was learning to fly and seeing it sit beside the adult I realized what God intends for us to do. Baby believers should be able to look at us and admire what we have become in Christ that they may have hope in how He will grow them. Says a lot about how we are to represent our Savior.
*The Voice New Testament Copyright 2008 Thomas Nelson
*The Voice New Testament Copyright 2008 Thomas Nelson
Monday, July 5, 2010
Free at Last
He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives And recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed; (Luke 4:18b, Isaiah 61:1)
Life, liberty, and the American way! We think we understand what liberty is, do we not? After all, we are free; or are we? Jesus said, "Whom the Son (Jesus) sets free is free indeed." Meaning that we are not just free in "word" but in "deed." In what we are allowed to do. This word for liberty that Jesus used in this passage meant: to be forgiven for sins; to be released from penalty or punishment. The word liberty we use means: to have a choice. So, lets put them both together: We have a choice to be forgiven for our sins and to be released from the penalty and punishment required for them; death.
My mentor and spiritual father in the Lord used to say: "It will be a tragedy for anyone to end up in hell but it will be a horrific tragedy for someone from America to end up there."
We have the liberty to choose the liberty that Christ was talking about. Don't blow it by not choosing it.
May you choose wisely!
Br Mike <><
Life, liberty, and the American way! We think we understand what liberty is, do we not? After all, we are free; or are we? Jesus said, "Whom the Son (Jesus) sets free is free indeed." Meaning that we are not just free in "word" but in "deed." In what we are allowed to do. This word for liberty that Jesus used in this passage meant: to be forgiven for sins; to be released from penalty or punishment. The word liberty we use means: to have a choice. So, lets put them both together: We have a choice to be forgiven for our sins and to be released from the penalty and punishment required for them; death.
My mentor and spiritual father in the Lord used to say: "It will be a tragedy for anyone to end up in hell but it will be a horrific tragedy for someone from America to end up there."
We have the liberty to choose the liberty that Christ was talking about. Don't blow it by not choosing it.
May you choose wisely!
Br Mike <><
Monday, June 28, 2010
In My Opinion
1 Accept into your group someone who is weak in faith, and do not argue about opinions. (Romans 14:1, NCV).
Entire Chapter: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+14&version=NCV
You know what they say about opinions, right? Did you know that in the first century church it was the personal opinions of others that challenged the message of the Gospel. The Roman society of the day in which Paul penned these words, being under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit of course, parallels the one you and I live in today in many ways. The church in Rome was growing in Christ and as with any growth, if we are not careful, pride comes along with it because we are "getting bigger." One of the most dangerous weapons Satan uses against the church is spiritual pride. Paul was not saying to compromise the Gospel, read the whole chapter when you get time, but he was teaching against arrogance.
I told the new convert class in my study yesterday that living the Christian life is 95% determination and 5% action. It has to be that way. If we try to live perfect by our own power we will eventually end up in failure or in spiritual pride. Those who turn back on Christ usually become frustrated trying live the perfect life. Sometimes they quit because a super spiritual Christian has told them "their opinion" about something rather than explaining to them how to grow in Christ. If you are a new convert understand today that God has a plan for your life and He will get you to the level you need to be at. If you are a mature Christian, then understand that God has a plan for the new convert's life, just as He does yours, and He will get them to where they need to be. Allow the grace of Christ to do the work in strengthening faith: the faith of babes and our own!
Enjoy being blessed: you are!
Br Mike
Entire Chapter: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+14&version=NCV
You know what they say about opinions, right? Did you know that in the first century church it was the personal opinions of others that challenged the message of the Gospel. The Roman society of the day in which Paul penned these words, being under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit of course, parallels the one you and I live in today in many ways. The church in Rome was growing in Christ and as with any growth, if we are not careful, pride comes along with it because we are "getting bigger." One of the most dangerous weapons Satan uses against the church is spiritual pride. Paul was not saying to compromise the Gospel, read the whole chapter when you get time, but he was teaching against arrogance.
I told the new convert class in my study yesterday that living the Christian life is 95% determination and 5% action. It has to be that way. If we try to live perfect by our own power we will eventually end up in failure or in spiritual pride. Those who turn back on Christ usually become frustrated trying live the perfect life. Sometimes they quit because a super spiritual Christian has told them "their opinion" about something rather than explaining to them how to grow in Christ. If you are a new convert understand today that God has a plan for your life and He will get you to the level you need to be at. If you are a mature Christian, then understand that God has a plan for the new convert's life, just as He does yours, and He will get them to where they need to be. Allow the grace of Christ to do the work in strengthening faith: the faith of babes and our own!
Enjoy being blessed: you are!
Br Mike
Monday, June 21, 2010
One Gospel: One Church
38 Now John answered Him, saying, “Teacher, we saw someone who does not follow us casting out demons in Your name, and we forbade him because he does not follow us.” 39 But Jesus said, “Do not forbid him, for no one who works a miracle in My name can soon afterward speak evil of Me. 40 For he who is not against us is on our side. 41 For whoever gives you a cup of water to drink in My name, because you belong to Christ, assuredly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.
[Mark 9:39-41]
I think one thing that has caused the society around us to ignore the church is our differences among ourselves! I teach a class on Sunday mornings called "Everything you wanted to ask about God, Christians, and the Bible; but were afraid too!" Each new group I have always come up with this question: How come there are so many denominations? This passage in St. Mark is where I start with our discussion. The key to understanding the Gospel is to understand first of all it is not from man. God has given it to us that we may spread it. He could have used angels to preach it, and will one day (Revelation 14:6), but for now it is up to us. Men have taken parts of the Bible and made their personal interpretations of what a particular portion of it says, thereby creating divisions among those who may not interpret it their way. Over a period of years these groups have come together as what we know today as denominations; not divisions. A true Christian denomination believes Jesus to be the only begotten Son of God that shed His blood on the Cross that we may be forgiven for sin, and that He was raised to life three days later, ascended back to Heaven, and is at this very moment seated at the right hand of the Father interceding for you and I. The Holy Spirit is now in the earth to replace His physical presence by way of His spiritual presence.
Lets listen to the words of our Lord when we think in terms of denominations: "For he who is not against us is on our side."
May all ya'll be blessed today in the Name of Jesus!
[Mark 9:39-41]
I think one thing that has caused the society around us to ignore the church is our differences among ourselves! I teach a class on Sunday mornings called "Everything you wanted to ask about God, Christians, and the Bible; but were afraid too!" Each new group I have always come up with this question: How come there are so many denominations? This passage in St. Mark is where I start with our discussion. The key to understanding the Gospel is to understand first of all it is not from man. God has given it to us that we may spread it. He could have used angels to preach it, and will one day (Revelation 14:6), but for now it is up to us. Men have taken parts of the Bible and made their personal interpretations of what a particular portion of it says, thereby creating divisions among those who may not interpret it their way. Over a period of years these groups have come together as what we know today as denominations; not divisions. A true Christian denomination believes Jesus to be the only begotten Son of God that shed His blood on the Cross that we may be forgiven for sin, and that He was raised to life three days later, ascended back to Heaven, and is at this very moment seated at the right hand of the Father interceding for you and I. The Holy Spirit is now in the earth to replace His physical presence by way of His spiritual presence.
Lets listen to the words of our Lord when we think in terms of denominations: "For he who is not against us is on our side."
May all ya'll be blessed today in the Name of Jesus!
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Shhhhh.
Last week my wife and I attended an awards ceremony in the local high school auditorium. Our daughter was receiving some awards for her work in middle school. As we sat waiting for the program to begin I could not help but notice how loud the kids were! It was just a rumble of sound! I could not understand anything any of them were saying but they were talking it up! When the principle came to the mike, all of them got quite without her ever having to say anything at all! From noisy rumble to almost pin drop silence! It was obvious they all respected the lady.
I begin to think about the Body of Christ: The Church. There are times we need to be noisy and rumble and yet when Jesus comes to the mike we need to give Him our full attention as well, without having to be told to do so! Many times we get busy talking among ourselves and expressing our opinions to the general public that we forget to look toward the stage and see if Jesus is up there! I think (personal opinion) that we (The Church) would be more effective in carrying out the great commission if we look to see if Jesus wants our attention more often than we do!
"He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." (Revelation 2:29)
I begin to think about the Body of Christ: The Church. There are times we need to be noisy and rumble and yet when Jesus comes to the mike we need to give Him our full attention as well, without having to be told to do so! Many times we get busy talking among ourselves and expressing our opinions to the general public that we forget to look toward the stage and see if Jesus is up there! I think (personal opinion) that we (The Church) would be more effective in carrying out the great commission if we look to see if Jesus wants our attention more often than we do!
"He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." (Revelation 2:29)
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
God is not out to get you: But to have you!
And the LORD said to Satan, “Behold, all that he has is in your power; only do not lay a hand on his person.” So Satan went out from the presence of the LORD. (Job 1:12)
I picked up a kid heading to the bus station yesterday evening. He was going to Lynchburg to start a job this morning. On the way he began to tell me about how his wife had left him and took their three month old daughter. He was heartbroken. He said, "I know I've not been the best I could have been, but I hope that God has not turned against me." I assured him that God was not against him, but for him. I told him about Job.
You may not be a Job today, just as this kid was not. Job had it all; to begin with. God made him stronger in his faith even though God referred to him as blameless and upright at the beginning! As I told the kid so say I unto you: God is not out to get you, but to HAVE you. As God allowed Satan to attack Job so that He (God) could be glorified, He may very well do the same to you and I. What an honor! To have God think of us in such a way! Under attack are you? Feel overwhelmed by the enemy or circumstances? Go to the Bible and read the account of Job. You will feel better!
Father God: Bless each of my fellow laborers today, I pray. Jesus, it is by the authority You have given me in Your name to ask this; Thank You!
Amen.
I picked up a kid heading to the bus station yesterday evening. He was going to Lynchburg to start a job this morning. On the way he began to tell me about how his wife had left him and took their three month old daughter. He was heartbroken. He said, "I know I've not been the best I could have been, but I hope that God has not turned against me." I assured him that God was not against him, but for him. I told him about Job.
You may not be a Job today, just as this kid was not. Job had it all; to begin with. God made him stronger in his faith even though God referred to him as blameless and upright at the beginning! As I told the kid so say I unto you: God is not out to get you, but to HAVE you. As God allowed Satan to attack Job so that He (God) could be glorified, He may very well do the same to you and I. What an honor! To have God think of us in such a way! Under attack are you? Feel overwhelmed by the enemy or circumstances? Go to the Bible and read the account of Job. You will feel better!
Father God: Bless each of my fellow laborers today, I pray. Jesus, it is by the authority You have given me in Your name to ask this; Thank You!
Amen.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
If only ______________ (You fill in the blank). Two words that when joined together followed by a resolution that we think would make our life better perhaps. If only I were rich. If only I were beautiful. If only I were healthy If only he would leave. If only she would stay. If only I had kids. If only I did not have kids. If only I were younger. If only I were older; if only, if only, if only! In the real world of day to day life, if only is a day dream away. What are we to do?
Jesus dealt with it. If only Judas would have believed Him instead of the Pharisees. If only John had not rebuked Herod he would have kept his head. If only Adam and Eve had not sinned He would not have to go to the Cross. We often think of the Cross in terms of redemption and that is the primary role it played, but just as important as the crucifixion, is the resurrection! Had Jesus not rose again then all His promises would be null but He did rise again! He is alive today! He is able to help us when we do not get our resolutions to our “If only.” If only people would believe that.
4 And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: (1 Corinthians 15:4)
Recognize your blessings today!
Jesus dealt with it. If only Judas would have believed Him instead of the Pharisees. If only John had not rebuked Herod he would have kept his head. If only Adam and Eve had not sinned He would not have to go to the Cross. We often think of the Cross in terms of redemption and that is the primary role it played, but just as important as the crucifixion, is the resurrection! Had Jesus not rose again then all His promises would be null but He did rise again! He is alive today! He is able to help us when we do not get our resolutions to our “If only.” If only people would believe that.
4 And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: (1 Corinthians 15:4)
Recognize your blessings today!
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Encourage Others
I walked into my study after service Wednesday night to find a couple of envelops on my desk. They were decorated with foam stickers and drawings in crayon. I could not wait to open them and see what super message they held inside! I opened the first one to find a letter that had this Scripture printed on it in cute, little kid font: * Let’s see how inventive we can be in encouraging love and helping out. She had signed it with her name and also with, “Pastor Mike we love you.” As my eyes sprung a leak while opening the other one I found the same Scripture with different pictures and colors. This one was also signed, “Thank you Pastor Mike for all you do.” Apparently their teacher had taught them about encouraging others. I am so thankful that they left these on my desk. It was perfect timing.
This has been a tough month for me. As many of you know life goes on even though it seems to stop for those in bereavement sometimes. I have been consoled and encouraged by many during these past few weeks as they expressed their love and sympathy for me. I live to encourage others as you already know by these messages I have been writing and sending since 1999. I love to see people encouraged and especially when they need it the most. Many times I have had people write and tell me how much these messages have touched them at just the right time. God knows what we need, how much we need, and when we need it. He also knows exactly the person we need it from too! To know these kids spent time decorating these letters with me in mind was overwhelming.
Take time to encourage someone today. Do it sincerely of course. Let them know they are appreciated. You may be the very person they need it from today. Find an inventive way to do it. Surprise them. Ask God to give you the words, the Scriptures, and the technique. It will bless their hearts.
Father; thank You for what You did for me by way of these kids. Bless them Lord. Thanks Jesus!
*Peterson, E. H. (2003). The Message : The Bible in contemporary language (Heb 10:23).
This has been a tough month for me. As many of you know life goes on even though it seems to stop for those in bereavement sometimes. I have been consoled and encouraged by many during these past few weeks as they expressed their love and sympathy for me. I live to encourage others as you already know by these messages I have been writing and sending since 1999. I love to see people encouraged and especially when they need it the most. Many times I have had people write and tell me how much these messages have touched them at just the right time. God knows what we need, how much we need, and when we need it. He also knows exactly the person we need it from too! To know these kids spent time decorating these letters with me in mind was overwhelming.
Take time to encourage someone today. Do it sincerely of course. Let them know they are appreciated. You may be the very person they need it from today. Find an inventive way to do it. Surprise them. Ask God to give you the words, the Scriptures, and the technique. It will bless their hearts.
Father; thank You for what You did for me by way of these kids. Bless them Lord. Thanks Jesus!
*Peterson, E. H. (2003). The Message : The Bible in contemporary language (Heb 10:23).
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
The Old Saint Went Home
Precious in the sight of the LORD Is the death of His saints.*
At 2:50 A.M. the phone rang: “Hello, is this Mr. Ingo, Glen’s son?” I answer; “Yes.” The person on the other end says; “This is (Sue), your dad’s nurse. I am sorry to have to tell you this but he passed away just moments ago.” I ask what happened and the nurse said apparently a heart attack. There it was; the phone call I had been dreading for the past three weeks. Although I knew it was a matter of time for him given all his chronic medical conditions I never expected it to happen this way. But then again, I guess we are never ready to hear such news. Often he would tell me how tired he was and how he yearned to go to heaven. Two weeks earlier he had told me that he felt God had forgotten him. That it had been so long since God put him on earth that He had forgot he was here! I assured him that God knew exactly where he was and would find him when he needed him.
I am going to miss him and mom until I can be there with them one day. As the choir sang and the preacher preached during his service, my mind was racing with many thoughts. Wonder who he is talking to right now? Wonder what Jesus is telling him? Wonder what he is seeing and hearing right now? Of course there was no way for me to know. One thought came to mind as the preacher was reading his chosen Scripture passages; Dad is seeing the Word while I sit here listening to it!
As much as I dreaded experiencing the feelings of grief that come with such a loss God somehow caused my heart to be in joyful serenity. As warm tears found their way out of my eyes and down my cheeks, my heart was warmed and comforted. A gift from the Holy Spirit! My body grieved while my soul rejoiced. I am still grieved somewhat by his passing but I take comfort in knowing that he is not grieving! This text message I sent to my best friend, whom I consider my adopted brother, later that morning sums it up for me; “The Old Saint has gone home.”
* The New King James Version. 1982 (Psalm 116:15). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.
At 2:50 A.M. the phone rang: “Hello, is this Mr. Ingo, Glen’s son?” I answer; “Yes.” The person on the other end says; “This is (Sue), your dad’s nurse. I am sorry to have to tell you this but he passed away just moments ago.” I ask what happened and the nurse said apparently a heart attack. There it was; the phone call I had been dreading for the past three weeks. Although I knew it was a matter of time for him given all his chronic medical conditions I never expected it to happen this way. But then again, I guess we are never ready to hear such news. Often he would tell me how tired he was and how he yearned to go to heaven. Two weeks earlier he had told me that he felt God had forgotten him. That it had been so long since God put him on earth that He had forgot he was here! I assured him that God knew exactly where he was and would find him when he needed him.
I am going to miss him and mom until I can be there with them one day. As the choir sang and the preacher preached during his service, my mind was racing with many thoughts. Wonder who he is talking to right now? Wonder what Jesus is telling him? Wonder what he is seeing and hearing right now? Of course there was no way for me to know. One thought came to mind as the preacher was reading his chosen Scripture passages; Dad is seeing the Word while I sit here listening to it!
As much as I dreaded experiencing the feelings of grief that come with such a loss God somehow caused my heart to be in joyful serenity. As warm tears found their way out of my eyes and down my cheeks, my heart was warmed and comforted. A gift from the Holy Spirit! My body grieved while my soul rejoiced. I am still grieved somewhat by his passing but I take comfort in knowing that he is not grieving! This text message I sent to my best friend, whom I consider my adopted brother, later that morning sums it up for me; “The Old Saint has gone home.”
* The New King James Version. 1982 (Psalm 116:15). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Sailing into 2010
Now it happened, on a certain day, that He got into a boat with His disciples. And He said to them, “Let us cross over to the other side of the lake.” And they launched out. (The New King James Version. 1982 (Luke 8:22). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.)
All around the world last Thursday night there were thousands of people waiting and watching for the clock to reach midnight. It came as thousands cheered and welcomed in the next decade in the millennium. I on the other hand, entered the new decade in my sleep. My wife and Hannah saw the ball drop in New York but not me. I remember my wife kissing me goodnight and saying “Happy New Year.” Maybe at the end of this year I will stay awake; but I have to get there first.
The disciples climbed on board a fishing boat with Jesus not knowing what lie ahead. You and I know, and Jesus knew, what they were in for, but not them. Had they known there was a storm waiting on them would they have sailed? Perhaps only if they knew they would survive it. The storm they entered was so fierce they thought they were going to drown. I can imagine them saying to their grandkids, “We thought we were goners!” When they woke Jesus I believe they were going to tell Him to get ready to tread water. What happened next surprised them causing Him to ask, “Where is your faith?”
We have no way of knowing what 2010 holds for us but we have been launched into it just the same. Storms await us, no doubt, but Jesus will be there with us. As we enter this New Year and this new decade let us enter it with confidence in the assurance that Jesus is in the boat with us.
Father God, thank You for another year! I trust fully in You as I embark on this new journey in 2010. In Your Name Jesus; Thank you!
All around the world last Thursday night there were thousands of people waiting and watching for the clock to reach midnight. It came as thousands cheered and welcomed in the next decade in the millennium. I on the other hand, entered the new decade in my sleep. My wife and Hannah saw the ball drop in New York but not me. I remember my wife kissing me goodnight and saying “Happy New Year.” Maybe at the end of this year I will stay awake; but I have to get there first.
The disciples climbed on board a fishing boat with Jesus not knowing what lie ahead. You and I know, and Jesus knew, what they were in for, but not them. Had they known there was a storm waiting on them would they have sailed? Perhaps only if they knew they would survive it. The storm they entered was so fierce they thought they were going to drown. I can imagine them saying to their grandkids, “We thought we were goners!” When they woke Jesus I believe they were going to tell Him to get ready to tread water. What happened next surprised them causing Him to ask, “Where is your faith?”
We have no way of knowing what 2010 holds for us but we have been launched into it just the same. Storms await us, no doubt, but Jesus will be there with us. As we enter this New Year and this new decade let us enter it with confidence in the assurance that Jesus is in the boat with us.
Father God, thank You for another year! I trust fully in You as I embark on this new journey in 2010. In Your Name Jesus; Thank you!
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