In the early part of 2000, I committed myself to reading through the entire Bible in one year, every year, for the rest of my life. I had read through it twice prior to that, but I wanted to be more consistent. So, if you are keeping track, this will be the twelfth consecutive year that I've read through the Bible. It takes approximately ten minutes every day to do so. I can't usually tell you what I read yesterday, or sometimes what I read earlier today. Likewise, I'll bet you can't tell me what you ate yesterday, or maybe even what you ate earlier today. But, all of us would agree that whether we remember what we ate yesterday, last week, or last year, our bodies must have received nourishment from our consumption of food or we wouldn't still be here.
Similarly, even though we can't remember word for word what we read from the Bible last week, last month, or last year; the fact is, our soul was nourished by what our mind took in and our character grows as a result of doing so. My attitude and my view of people, my relationship with God and my relationships with others, have all grown IMMENSELY during the past twelve years. We are what we think. And what we think is determined by the information we feed our mind. We can either take in the garbage and lies we are so often fed through the secular world's music, television, news, etc., OR we can take in the eternal truths we receive from God's Word. But, our worldview WILL be shaped by what we continually program into our mind (Philippians 4:8&9; Colossians 3:1-3). Our primary source of spiritual sustenance should not be from a Bible class or even a small group that we attend with others our age. It should come from our quiet time we each spend with God in His Word.
Lamar Vest is president and CEO of the American Bible Society. He says, "We buy the Bible in increasing volume, we revere the Bible, we give the Bible as gifts, but we Americans do everything with the Bible except read it. And we find that only about 20% of Americans are actually engaged with scripture on a regular basis." Gleaning spiritual truth from another, including a preacher, is not intended to be the only time we receive spiritual nourishment. It should, instead, challenge us to read and study the Bible for ourselves.
If you are not already doing so, might I challenge you to begin reading through the Bible for the rest of your life, beginning in 2012? For those who are older, it is never too late to begin. But, the younger a person begins that habit, the more they will understand God's plan for their lives and truly live His eternal principles on a daily basis.
We have hardbound copies of the Chronological Bible in the New Living Translation at the church for $20. Buy one for yourself. Buy one for someone else as a Christmas gift. Reading God's Word for yourself is one of the best gifts you can give another person. "For the Word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innner thoughts and desires." (Hebrews 4:12)
Monday, December 5, 2011
Monday, November 7, 2011
Patience
The theme for so many of us might well be, "I want what I want, and I want it right now!" I remember how impatient I was as a kid, waiting for a cupcake to bake in my sister's Easy Bake Oven. Even today, I find myself wondering why God doesn't see life the way I do and give me what I want and when I want it.
When Mary and Martha sent a message to Jesus that their brother, Lazarus, was sick and needed Jesus' attention immediately, Jesus delayed going to see his friend (John 11:1-7). In the meantime, Lazarus died. His sisters couldn't understand why Jesus didn't come sooner. They firmly believed Jesus could have prevented Lazarus from dying. But, Jesus had something grander in mind. He would raise Lazarus from the dead after he had been in the grave four days. God's timing, especially His delays, may leave us thinking He doesn't care for us, but in reality, His delays are always for a very good reason.
When Jesus visited in his hometown synagogue, he dared to suggest that God loves Gentiles as much as He loves Jews (Luke 4:25-30). And even though they wanted to kill Jesus for making such a suggestion, the Bible says he pushed through the crowd and went on his way in spite of their efforts to kill him. We see the same thing happening on other occasions (John 7:30; 8:20, 58&59; 10:39). God has a plan for everything that happens in our lives. It wasn't time for Jesus to die so God didn't allow Him to die. Faith is trusting God, even when things don't go our way. Faith is believing that God always knows what He is doing and God will use our situation, whatever it is and however bad it may be, to bring about good in our lives and glory to Him (Romans 8:28). You see, God's timing is ALWAYS the right time (Galatians 4:4). "There is a time for everything, a season for every activity under heaven" (Ecclesiastes 3:1). Trust Him in all things and at all times. God knows what He is doing and we often don't see His wisdom until much later (Isaiah 55:8&9).
When Mary and Martha sent a message to Jesus that their brother, Lazarus, was sick and needed Jesus' attention immediately, Jesus delayed going to see his friend (John 11:1-7). In the meantime, Lazarus died. His sisters couldn't understand why Jesus didn't come sooner. They firmly believed Jesus could have prevented Lazarus from dying. But, Jesus had something grander in mind. He would raise Lazarus from the dead after he had been in the grave four days. God's timing, especially His delays, may leave us thinking He doesn't care for us, but in reality, His delays are always for a very good reason.
When Jesus visited in his hometown synagogue, he dared to suggest that God loves Gentiles as much as He loves Jews (Luke 4:25-30). And even though they wanted to kill Jesus for making such a suggestion, the Bible says he pushed through the crowd and went on his way in spite of their efforts to kill him. We see the same thing happening on other occasions (John 7:30; 8:20, 58&59; 10:39). God has a plan for everything that happens in our lives. It wasn't time for Jesus to die so God didn't allow Him to die. Faith is trusting God, even when things don't go our way. Faith is believing that God always knows what He is doing and God will use our situation, whatever it is and however bad it may be, to bring about good in our lives and glory to Him (Romans 8:28). You see, God's timing is ALWAYS the right time (Galatians 4:4). "There is a time for everything, a season for every activity under heaven" (Ecclesiastes 3:1). Trust Him in all things and at all times. God knows what He is doing and we often don't see His wisdom until much later (Isaiah 55:8&9).
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Extreme Family Makeover
After God completed His creative work in six days, including the formation of man and woman, it is interesting to note that the very first institution God brought into existence was not government. God did not envision government as being the central and primary tool for keeping peace between people, or regulating how people conduct themselves with one another. But, then, neither was the church the first institution God brought into existence after creating human beings. The first institution God gave to mankind was marriage, and with it, the family. In God's plans, it would be the family responsible for insuring that children learned how to relate to one another and ultimately, to others. Parents would be entrusted with the responsibility of teaching their children God's laws because following God's laws would best result in a society all could peaceably live in. Any time we separate ourselves from obedience to God's Laws, we receive the due consequences of our actions with chaos; either in our marriage, our family, or our society (Colossians 1:17).
Quite frankly, the family unit is under attack in America. A boat dock is built on many large, round, wooden posts that are sunk deep into the river, lake, or ocean bottom upon which the dock sits. Someone told me many years ago that we could safely remove one of those posts from underneath the dock and the dock itself would still stand. In fact, we could even remove many of those posts and the dock would still be usable, though not as safe. But, there does reach a point at which the removal of too many posts will result in the dock falling apart. As tragic as the demise of one family unit is to the members in that family, society itself will survive that tragedy. In fact, society will even withstand several family units that are not healthy or that fall apart. But, there is a point at which too many dysfunctional family units will cause the society to crumble. We are quickly approaching that Point of No Return in America.
America needs an "Extreme Makeover" in our families. Over the next five weeks, we will explore some ways that we can restore health and vitality to our specific families at New Hope. We pray that as these families, which are the building blocks or the foundational pillars of our society, are strengthened, that our society as a whole will also be strengthened. We invite you to join us. Here are the topics for each weekend:
October 8/9 - - "The Necessity of a Family Makeover" ( Joshua 24)
15/16 - - "The Foundation of a Family Makeover" (Psalm 127)
22/23 - - "The Keys to a Family Makeover" (Deuteronomy 6)
29/30 - - "The Role of Mentors in a Family Makeover" (I & II Timothy)
November 5/6- - "The Role of the Church in a Family Makeover" (Psalm 78)
Quite frankly, the family unit is under attack in America. A boat dock is built on many large, round, wooden posts that are sunk deep into the river, lake, or ocean bottom upon which the dock sits. Someone told me many years ago that we could safely remove one of those posts from underneath the dock and the dock itself would still stand. In fact, we could even remove many of those posts and the dock would still be usable, though not as safe. But, there does reach a point at which the removal of too many posts will result in the dock falling apart. As tragic as the demise of one family unit is to the members in that family, society itself will survive that tragedy. In fact, society will even withstand several family units that are not healthy or that fall apart. But, there is a point at which too many dysfunctional family units will cause the society to crumble. We are quickly approaching that Point of No Return in America.
America needs an "Extreme Makeover" in our families. Over the next five weeks, we will explore some ways that we can restore health and vitality to our specific families at New Hope. We pray that as these families, which are the building blocks or the foundational pillars of our society, are strengthened, that our society as a whole will also be strengthened. We invite you to join us. Here are the topics for each weekend:
October 8/9 - - "The Necessity of a Family Makeover" ( Joshua 24)
15/16 - - "The Foundation of a Family Makeover" (Psalm 127)
22/23 - - "The Keys to a Family Makeover" (Deuteronomy 6)
29/30 - - "The Role of Mentors in a Family Makeover" (I & II Timothy)
November 5/6- - "The Role of the Church in a Family Makeover" (Psalm 78)
Monday, September 26, 2011
Life Chain
Of the hundreds of laws given to the nation of Israel under the Old Covenant, here was Jesus' answer to a question as to which was the greatest commandment, "Love God with ALL your heart, and love your fellow human beings AS you love yourself" (Matthew 22:37-40). In fact, Jesus said that ALL of the laws given by Moses and ALL of the teachings given by the Prophets in the Old Testament were summarized in those two commandments. But, he simplified even more how we should live in Matt.7:12, "do to others what you would have them do to you, for this one command summarizes everything else you've been taught in the Law and by the Prophets."
I've read through the entire Bible thirteen times and it's very obvious that God values ALL life. It matters not the circumstances behind our conception, where we were born, the condition of the environment into which we were born, or whether we are of a sound mind or totally normal physically (Psalm 139:13-16). God is able to use EVERY situation and circumstance, and every person regardless of their social standing, their abilities, their family name, and more for His glory (Romans 8:28). It's hard for me to understand how anyone could knowingly take the life of another human being; unless it is to defend one's self, their family, someone else, or their country. I know this is hard for some people to understand, but God loves life so much, He commands that those responsible for murdering another human being must forfeit their own right to live (Gen.9:5&6; Exodus 21:12-14; Leviticus 24:17; Numbers 35:16-31).
The idea that someone can personally be opposed to abortion (which is the taking of innocent human life in what should be the safest of sanctuaries), but not be opposed to someone else taking a human life by abortion, is a position based more on being politically correct than it is based on moral and biblical truth. It is one thing to be personally opposed to wearing make-up or hairspray, or to personally be opposed to dancing, or to be personally opposed to taking vitamins and not be opposed to others who want to. But, there are some absolutes that are always wrong or always right. And God's view of life is absolute. He values life highly. God expects us to do the same.
October is "Respect Life" month. This Sunday, Christians from many churches will be uniting to silently pray for the unborn in cities all across the United States. In Marshalltown, registration begins at 1:00pm either at St. Henry's Church, the Church of the Nazarene, or the Redeemer Lutheran Church. At 2:00pm, we will form a chain starting at Center Street and Olive Street that stretches as far north on Center Street as we have people. For ONE hour, we will pray that our society sees the truth of this unconscienable murder, that women who have had abortions would find forgiveness and emotional healing in Jesus Christ, and that God would bring an end to abortion in America and around the world. Bring a lawn chair if you can't stand for an hour. Some who drive by honk their horns in support. Others share obscene gestures. Still others will change their minds because of our peaceful, prayerful, and silent witness. I hope you care enough about life to join me and other Christians this Sunday (October 2nd) in our Life Chain Prayer Vigil from 2-3pm.
I've read through the entire Bible thirteen times and it's very obvious that God values ALL life. It matters not the circumstances behind our conception, where we were born, the condition of the environment into which we were born, or whether we are of a sound mind or totally normal physically (Psalm 139:13-16). God is able to use EVERY situation and circumstance, and every person regardless of their social standing, their abilities, their family name, and more for His glory (Romans 8:28). It's hard for me to understand how anyone could knowingly take the life of another human being; unless it is to defend one's self, their family, someone else, or their country. I know this is hard for some people to understand, but God loves life so much, He commands that those responsible for murdering another human being must forfeit their own right to live (Gen.9:5&6; Exodus 21:12-14; Leviticus 24:17; Numbers 35:16-31).
The idea that someone can personally be opposed to abortion (which is the taking of innocent human life in what should be the safest of sanctuaries), but not be opposed to someone else taking a human life by abortion, is a position based more on being politically correct than it is based on moral and biblical truth. It is one thing to be personally opposed to wearing make-up or hairspray, or to personally be opposed to dancing, or to be personally opposed to taking vitamins and not be opposed to others who want to. But, there are some absolutes that are always wrong or always right. And God's view of life is absolute. He values life highly. God expects us to do the same.
October is "Respect Life" month. This Sunday, Christians from many churches will be uniting to silently pray for the unborn in cities all across the United States. In Marshalltown, registration begins at 1:00pm either at St. Henry's Church, the Church of the Nazarene, or the Redeemer Lutheran Church. At 2:00pm, we will form a chain starting at Center Street and Olive Street that stretches as far north on Center Street as we have people. For ONE hour, we will pray that our society sees the truth of this unconscienable murder, that women who have had abortions would find forgiveness and emotional healing in Jesus Christ, and that God would bring an end to abortion in America and around the world. Bring a lawn chair if you can't stand for an hour. Some who drive by honk their horns in support. Others share obscene gestures. Still others will change their minds because of our peaceful, prayerful, and silent witness. I hope you care enough about life to join me and other Christians this Sunday (October 2nd) in our Life Chain Prayer Vigil from 2-3pm.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Courageous
Did You Know?
---63% of all teen suicides come from homes without fathers.
---90% of all runaways and homeless children come from homes without fathers.
---85% of children with behavioral problems come from homes without fathers.
---71% of all high school dropouts come from homes without fathers.
---85% of all youths in prison come from homes without fathers.
27% of all caucasian children in America live apart from their dads, as do 36% of Hispanic children and 65% of African American children. In a survey taken by the University of Texas at Austin, 91% of the 701 fathers questioned, agreed there is a "father-absence crisis in America." In many more homes where the dad is physically present, he is often not actively engaged in the lives of his children. Children with fathers who are involved in their lives are much more likely to enjoy school and extracurricular activities, get good grades in school, be involved in church, and overall have fewer problems than are those with dads not actively engaged in their children's lives.
Dads, moms, and kids alike need to see the movie, "Courageous." Four police officers attempt to put their faith in God after a sudden and unexpected tragedy transforms their lives. Their conviction and determination will have an infectious impact on all who see this movie! Google, "Courageous, the movie" and you will find many trailers from this Christian film that are a foretaste of how powerful the movie is.
"Courageous" opens September 30 at the Plaza 9 Theaters here in Marshalltown and discount tickets for $5.50 can be purchased by calling New Hope Christian Church (752-1612). Why not consider purchasing enough tickets not just for your family, but also for others whom you know need to see and hear this message? In the meantime, pray that those who need to see "Courageous" are made aware it is here by some form of advertisement, or they are personally invited by someone else to attend. Pray that hearts, lives, and families will be changed!
---63% of all teen suicides come from homes without fathers.
---90% of all runaways and homeless children come from homes without fathers.
---85% of children with behavioral problems come from homes without fathers.
---71% of all high school dropouts come from homes without fathers.
---85% of all youths in prison come from homes without fathers.
27% of all caucasian children in America live apart from their dads, as do 36% of Hispanic children and 65% of African American children. In a survey taken by the University of Texas at Austin, 91% of the 701 fathers questioned, agreed there is a "father-absence crisis in America." In many more homes where the dad is physically present, he is often not actively engaged in the lives of his children. Children with fathers who are involved in their lives are much more likely to enjoy school and extracurricular activities, get good grades in school, be involved in church, and overall have fewer problems than are those with dads not actively engaged in their children's lives.
Dads, moms, and kids alike need to see the movie, "Courageous." Four police officers attempt to put their faith in God after a sudden and unexpected tragedy transforms their lives. Their conviction and determination will have an infectious impact on all who see this movie! Google, "Courageous, the movie" and you will find many trailers from this Christian film that are a foretaste of how powerful the movie is.
"Courageous" opens September 30 at the Plaza 9 Theaters here in Marshalltown and discount tickets for $5.50 can be purchased by calling New Hope Christian Church (752-1612). Why not consider purchasing enough tickets not just for your family, but also for others whom you know need to see and hear this message? In the meantime, pray that those who need to see "Courageous" are made aware it is here by some form of advertisement, or they are personally invited by someone else to attend. Pray that hearts, lives, and families will be changed!
Thursday, September 8, 2011
10 Year Anniversary of 9/11
We all remember what we were doing and where we were, when we heard the news 10 years ago about the attack on America by Islamic Jihadists. I want to share with you some thoughts from a video by, The Skit Guys, that you can watch on God Tube at the following address: http://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=KKLW6GNX&utm_source=GodTube%20Must-See%20Video&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=09/08/2011
"I Corinthians 13 says, 'now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror' (v.12). It goes on to assure us that one day, 'we will see everything with perfect clarity.' Until that day comes, we have three things that will enable us to not just deal with the problems and issues of life, but actually help us overcome and conquer those problems (Rom.8:37): faith in God, unswerving hope, and love (v.13). Through our shock and horror from the events of that day, something else happened ten years ago. Although evil intentions appeared to be a success, our country embraced the complete opposite of what was intended. Instead of division, there was unity. Instead of confusion, there was clarity. Instead of falling apart, we banded together. But then again, that's the way one nation under GOD, will always respond."
The Proverb writer reminds us that, "the fear of the Lord is the beginning of true knowledge" (1:7). That verse infuriates our increasingly secular society. When the U.S. Supreme Court banned the Bible from public schools in 1963, Justice Potter Stewart blasted the ruling with his dissenting remarks. "It led not to true neutrality with respect to religion, but to the establishment of a religion of secularism." Sadly, we often see this religion of secularism disguised with Christian clothing.
I say all that because much has been made about New York City's Mayor Michael Bloomberg's decision to forbid the saying of prayers from the upcoming ceremony commemorating the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. His actions, and the ones of many others who continue to assault our Christian heritage should not surprise us. Satan has always incited rage against God and those who follow Him (Psalm 2). (refer to our podcast of my sermon on Psalm 2 from August 14, 2011) On Sunday night, September 11, 2011 at 6:45pm, New Hope Christian Church will remember and reflect upon the happenings ten years ago that would have crumbled any other nation, but instead turned our nation to the Lord. And yes, we will pray, repent, and seek the blessings of the only God who created us, saves us, redeems us, and continues to sustain us. We invite and encourage you to attend.
"I Corinthians 13 says, 'now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror' (v.12). It goes on to assure us that one day, 'we will see everything with perfect clarity.' Until that day comes, we have three things that will enable us to not just deal with the problems and issues of life, but actually help us overcome and conquer those problems (Rom.8:37): faith in God, unswerving hope, and love (v.13). Through our shock and horror from the events of that day, something else happened ten years ago. Although evil intentions appeared to be a success, our country embraced the complete opposite of what was intended. Instead of division, there was unity. Instead of confusion, there was clarity. Instead of falling apart, we banded together. But then again, that's the way one nation under GOD, will always respond."
The Proverb writer reminds us that, "the fear of the Lord is the beginning of true knowledge" (1:7). That verse infuriates our increasingly secular society. When the U.S. Supreme Court banned the Bible from public schools in 1963, Justice Potter Stewart blasted the ruling with his dissenting remarks. "It led not to true neutrality with respect to religion, but to the establishment of a religion of secularism." Sadly, we often see this religion of secularism disguised with Christian clothing.
I say all that because much has been made about New York City's Mayor Michael Bloomberg's decision to forbid the saying of prayers from the upcoming ceremony commemorating the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. His actions, and the ones of many others who continue to assault our Christian heritage should not surprise us. Satan has always incited rage against God and those who follow Him (Psalm 2). (refer to our podcast of my sermon on Psalm 2 from August 14, 2011) On Sunday night, September 11, 2011 at 6:45pm, New Hope Christian Church will remember and reflect upon the happenings ten years ago that would have crumbled any other nation, but instead turned our nation to the Lord. And yes, we will pray, repent, and seek the blessings of the only God who created us, saves us, redeems us, and continues to sustain us. We invite and encourage you to attend.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
From July 14th through July 30th, I conducted or officiated at three funerals and two weddings. One of the funerals was for a tiny baby that died when she was only two days old. Another funeral was for an older man who lived two days shy of 91 years. And the third was for a gentleman whose life was pretty wild when he was younger, but who dramatically changed once he found Jesus. In addition, I remember when both the brides in the weddings were born and I watched them grow from cute, little girls into beautiful, young women. In fact, I did the wedding for the one bride's parents 32 years ago.
Birth, marriage, and death. The Psalmist hit the nail on the head when he said that our lifetime is but a moment to God (39:5). James describes our life as a fog (mist) that is here but a short while before quickly leaving (4:14). We spend far too much time living in the moment, and not enough time living in the future. Should we be mindful of how we spend our time in the here and now? Of course! Most definitely! God has given each of us the precious gift of life, and each of us will be accountable as to how wisely we utilized the lives, the talents, the friends, the jobs, the opportunities, and more that God placed before us with which to bring Him glory. But, I believe that if we focused more on the future, it would have a huge impact on how we live in the present. I believe that if we were living with an eye on eternity, it would greatly enhance our lives on earth. This world is not our home. Death reminds us of that truth. We can ignore that reality in our lives and pretend it won't happen to us, but the funeral of someone we know and love, reminds us that we are all mortal. So, "fix your eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal" (II Cor. 4:18). Moses knew that truth and it greatly affected his daily life and his walk with the Lord (Hebrews 11:25-27; Numbers 12:3; Exodus 33:11).
I'm not sure who first said this, but it is very true for all of us: "Every person God puts into our lives, and every experience He gives us is the perfect preparation for the future that only He can see." With every conversation we are involved in, every decision we make, and every action we choose to do, we are building a legacy. God uses the good people AND the bad people, the wonderful experiences AND the not-so-wonderful experiences to shape us and mold us into a vessel that can be used for His glory. We must decide whether we will be a vessel God can use, or whether we will waste and squander the opportunities He has placed before us. Choose wisely! Life goes by rather quickly!
Birth, marriage, and death. The Psalmist hit the nail on the head when he said that our lifetime is but a moment to God (39:5). James describes our life as a fog (mist) that is here but a short while before quickly leaving (4:14). We spend far too much time living in the moment, and not enough time living in the future. Should we be mindful of how we spend our time in the here and now? Of course! Most definitely! God has given each of us the precious gift of life, and each of us will be accountable as to how wisely we utilized the lives, the talents, the friends, the jobs, the opportunities, and more that God placed before us with which to bring Him glory. But, I believe that if we focused more on the future, it would have a huge impact on how we live in the present. I believe that if we were living with an eye on eternity, it would greatly enhance our lives on earth. This world is not our home. Death reminds us of that truth. We can ignore that reality in our lives and pretend it won't happen to us, but the funeral of someone we know and love, reminds us that we are all mortal. So, "fix your eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal" (II Cor. 4:18). Moses knew that truth and it greatly affected his daily life and his walk with the Lord (Hebrews 11:25-27; Numbers 12:3; Exodus 33:11).
I'm not sure who first said this, but it is very true for all of us: "Every person God puts into our lives, and every experience He gives us is the perfect preparation for the future that only He can see." With every conversation we are involved in, every decision we make, and every action we choose to do, we are building a legacy. God uses the good people AND the bad people, the wonderful experiences AND the not-so-wonderful experiences to shape us and mold us into a vessel that can be used for His glory. We must decide whether we will be a vessel God can use, or whether we will waste and squander the opportunities He has placed before us. Choose wisely! Life goes by rather quickly!
Monday, June 6, 2011
Are You Ready?
Memorial Day is a national holiday set aside for the purpose of honoring those who paid the ultimate sacrifice of their lives while serving in the United States Military. I strongly believe we owe these brave and unselfish warriors the respect of setting aside a portion of that day each year to remember what our freedom cost them and their families.
After attending two different Memorial Day services on May 30th, I came home after lunch and listened to the messages on my home voice mail. Someone from the hospital left a message that one of our church members had been taken to the Emergency Room, "and did not make it." When I heard the name, I thought it surely must be a mistake. This man was the picture of health and only 51 years old. He was engaged to be married in September, had a strong faith, and was liked by all who knew him. But, physical death happens to us all (Hebrews 9:27). At no time are we made more aware of that truth than when someone we knew and loved, someone we spent a lot of time with, is suddenly no longer with us. The writer of the Old Testament book of Ecclesiastes, reminds us, there is "a time to be born and a time to die"
(3:2). We greet the birth of a baby with celebration and the death of a loved one with sorrow. Both life and death are a reality of the human experience.
Because this individual had a relationship with Jesus Christ as a result of his commitment to Jesus Christ, I am confident he is present with the Lord right now (II Corinthians 5:8; Philippians 1:21). Some people have a warning that death is imminent. Most don't. When that day and moment comes that we take our last breath, will we be ready? Will we be prepared to meet our Lord? Everyone will someday see him. And when we do, we will either see him as our Savior, or as our judge. What we choose to do with Jesus while we still live in the flesh, will determine how we see him when we leave this flesh.
Don't wait until later to put your life in order. There may not be a later (James 4:13-17). If we know what we should do, let's do it now! For scripture is clear, "Now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of (our) salvation" (II Corinthians 6:2). If you are not sure what steps to take in order to be ready to see Jesus now, please give me a call. God loves you and so do I!
Kerry
After attending two different Memorial Day services on May 30th, I came home after lunch and listened to the messages on my home voice mail. Someone from the hospital left a message that one of our church members had been taken to the Emergency Room, "and did not make it." When I heard the name, I thought it surely must be a mistake. This man was the picture of health and only 51 years old. He was engaged to be married in September, had a strong faith, and was liked by all who knew him. But, physical death happens to us all (Hebrews 9:27). At no time are we made more aware of that truth than when someone we knew and loved, someone we spent a lot of time with, is suddenly no longer with us. The writer of the Old Testament book of Ecclesiastes, reminds us, there is "a time to be born and a time to die"
(3:2). We greet the birth of a baby with celebration and the death of a loved one with sorrow. Both life and death are a reality of the human experience.
Because this individual had a relationship with Jesus Christ as a result of his commitment to Jesus Christ, I am confident he is present with the Lord right now (II Corinthians 5:8; Philippians 1:21). Some people have a warning that death is imminent. Most don't. When that day and moment comes that we take our last breath, will we be ready? Will we be prepared to meet our Lord? Everyone will someday see him. And when we do, we will either see him as our Savior, or as our judge. What we choose to do with Jesus while we still live in the flesh, will determine how we see him when we leave this flesh.
Don't wait until later to put your life in order. There may not be a later (James 4:13-17). If we know what we should do, let's do it now! For scripture is clear, "Now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of (our) salvation" (II Corinthians 6:2). If you are not sure what steps to take in order to be ready to see Jesus now, please give me a call. God loves you and so do I!
Kerry
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Discovering God in America
Faith in God and in His Son, Jesus Christ, has played an integral role in the formation and the continuation of the United States of America. To believe otherwise, is to be ignorant of the historical facts. One small example is our representative form of government. Knowing how evil the human heart can be (Jeremiah 17:9), our forefathers chose to give different responsibilities to three separate branches of government, rather than trusting any one human being or any one group of people with all the power. Isaiah 33:22 reads, "For the Lord is our judge (judicial branch), our lawgiver (legislative branch), and our king (executive branch). He will care for us and save us." Our nation's founders wisely delegated governmental responsibility to many different people with the understanding that all of us are ultimately dependent upon God for being our judge, lawgiver, and king.
That dependence upon God has worked well during times when America truly trusted Him to lead and guide us; whether it was through war, natural disasters, economic collapse, and more. There is currently a war of values and ideas taking place in our country. On the one side are those who believe "God is still involved in human affairs" (Benjamin Franklin), and on the other side are those who do not believe in God, period. Secularists have diligently, methodically, and passionately been trying to remove God from our history books, our government, our courtrooms, our education, and more, with great success. Rather than blaming Christians for the problems plaguing our country, intelligent people recognize our problems are a direct consequence of ridding ourselves of God (John 15:5).
The time has come to bring God back to the CENTER of American life. Join with us as as New Hope Christian Church (3901 South Center in Marshalltown) and 200 other churches host a live simulcast event called, "Rediscover God in America." The speakers include; George Barna, David Barton, Newt Gingrich, Mike Huckabee, Michelle Bachman, Haley Barbour, and more. The event is on Saturday, March 26th, lasts from 9am to 3pm and is free, although a donation will be received. There will be a break for lunch and attendees may enjoy any one of several restaurants, fast food, etc. within blocks of the church. Join us for this eye-opening event and make an impact on the future of our nation!
For more information you can check out our church web-site at www.newhopechristianchurch.net or www.rediscovergodinamerica.com
That dependence upon God has worked well during times when America truly trusted Him to lead and guide us; whether it was through war, natural disasters, economic collapse, and more. There is currently a war of values and ideas taking place in our country. On the one side are those who believe "God is still involved in human affairs" (Benjamin Franklin), and on the other side are those who do not believe in God, period. Secularists have diligently, methodically, and passionately been trying to remove God from our history books, our government, our courtrooms, our education, and more, with great success. Rather than blaming Christians for the problems plaguing our country, intelligent people recognize our problems are a direct consequence of ridding ourselves of God (John 15:5).
The time has come to bring God back to the CENTER of American life. Join with us as as New Hope Christian Church (3901 South Center in Marshalltown) and 200 other churches host a live simulcast event called, "Rediscover God in America." The speakers include; George Barna, David Barton, Newt Gingrich, Mike Huckabee, Michelle Bachman, Haley Barbour, and more. The event is on Saturday, March 26th, lasts from 9am to 3pm and is free, although a donation will be received. There will be a break for lunch and attendees may enjoy any one of several restaurants, fast food, etc. within blocks of the church. Join us for this eye-opening event and make an impact on the future of our nation!
For more information you can check out our church web-site at www.newhopechristianchurch.net or www.rediscovergodinamerica.com
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
God is Good!
We have been blessed to have a college student from South Korea living with us since the beginning of January. His name is Jun-sik, but his grandfather gave him a biblical name of Samuel. I like using Samuel. This has required an adjustment on our part in terms of schedules (he needs rides to and from everywhere), language (sometimes I'm not sure Samuel's "yes" really means "yes"), sharing the bathroom, etc. Probably the hardest adjustment for both of us is in the area of food. When you become used to certain foods, spices, smells, and more, it is hard to get used to anything else. Many years ago, I did a short-term missions trip to Russia and that was a definite culinary experience. McDonald's in Moscow was a welcome and temporary relief from cow tongue and gelatin.
So far, Korean candy and rice are about all my American nose and taste buds can take. "Taste, food? Good?" he asks. More often than not, I have to say "no." Or, would that really be "yes"? One major thing Samuel and I both have in common is our love for the Lord Jesus Christ. His father is a preacher. The church meets on the main floor of their home in Korea and his family lives on the second floor. For his part, Samuel would love to be a youth minister (maybe a preacher) some day.
The Psalmist presents this invitation to all who don't know the Lord. "Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in Him! Fear the Lord, you His godly people, for those who fear Him will have all they need" (34:8&9). I can't begin to tell you the number of times I've had a financial need, a need for clarity on something I didn't understand, a need for guidance in what I should write and say, a need for quietness and rest, and EVERYTIME God has been faithful in providing me with exactly what I need. I know beyond a doubt that I didn't evolve from apes or amoeba. There is too much evidence for me to think I'm just the product of accidents that occurred over millions and billions of years. God manifests His existence to me through His creation, through His Word, and through my everyday experiences. I don't know where you are at in your life. I don't know what issues you may be dealing with at this very moment. What I do know is this; that if you taste of the Lord, if you open up His Word and read it, if you open up your heart and mind and pray to Him, you WILL see that He is good! Count on it!
So far, Korean candy and rice are about all my American nose and taste buds can take. "Taste, food? Good?" he asks. More often than not, I have to say "no." Or, would that really be "yes"? One major thing Samuel and I both have in common is our love for the Lord Jesus Christ. His father is a preacher. The church meets on the main floor of their home in Korea and his family lives on the second floor. For his part, Samuel would love to be a youth minister (maybe a preacher) some day.
The Psalmist presents this invitation to all who don't know the Lord. "Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in Him! Fear the Lord, you His godly people, for those who fear Him will have all they need" (34:8&9). I can't begin to tell you the number of times I've had a financial need, a need for clarity on something I didn't understand, a need for guidance in what I should write and say, a need for quietness and rest, and EVERYTIME God has been faithful in providing me with exactly what I need. I know beyond a doubt that I didn't evolve from apes or amoeba. There is too much evidence for me to think I'm just the product of accidents that occurred over millions and billions of years. God manifests His existence to me through His creation, through His Word, and through my everyday experiences. I don't know where you are at in your life. I don't know what issues you may be dealing with at this very moment. What I do know is this; that if you taste of the Lord, if you open up His Word and read it, if you open up your heart and mind and pray to Him, you WILL see that He is good! Count on it!
Monday, January 3, 2011
Just Do It!
The story is told of an old man who lived on a farm in the mountains of eastern Kentucky with his young grandson. Grandpa would get up early every morning to read from the pages of his worn-out Bible. Wanting to imitate his grandfather, the boy also tried reading the Bible every day, but didn't feel he was remembering much or getting anything out of it. "Grandpa, no matter how much I read the Bible, I still feel there is so much I don't understand. It seems like I forget what I read as soon as I close it. What good does reading the Bible do?"
The grandfather had been putting coal in the stove so he said to his grandson, "Take this basket that normally holds coal, go down to the river and bring me back a basket of water." The boy did as he was told and the water all leaked out of the basket before he could get it back to the house. Laughing, the grandfather said, "you are going to have to move faster the next time." Even though he did run faster, the boy still couldn't return before the water all ran out of the basket. When the boy went to get a bucket, the grandfather said, "I don't want a bucket of water. I want a basket of water. You're just not trying hard enough."
Knowing the task was impossible, the boy wanted to show his grandpa that it just couldn't be done so he ran as fast as he could. By the time he got back, the basket was empty and he was out of breath. "See Papa, it's useless!"
The grandfather said, "Tell me what you see when you look in the basket." When he looked in the basket, the boy saw that the basket which had been dirty from holding coal, was now clean. "Son, that's what happens when you read the Bible. You might not understand or remember everything, but when you read the Bible, it will cleanse you and change you from the inside out."
Because the Bible is not just a compilation of writings from human beings, but rather comes from the heart and mind of God, it reveals us and speaks to us in super human ways (Hebrews 4:12; Isaiah 55:10&11). There is no logical or rational way to describe how God is able to speak to us with such great timing and power the way He does in His Word. It can only be His Holy Spirit who leads us to find what we need to hear in this big book, at precisely the exact time we need to hear it.
Regardless of what time of year it is, accept the challenge of reading through God's Word every year for the rest of your life. You can either call the church office and order a chronological Bible which puts our reading in the order events actually occurred. Or, you can look online and order one, simply by typing in, "Chronological Bible" in your Search space.
You will not always remember everything you read, but I can promise you after being through it eleven straight years that my thinking about many topics has changed and my life has changed with it, for the positive. Quit making up excuses and JUST DO IT!
The grandfather had been putting coal in the stove so he said to his grandson, "Take this basket that normally holds coal, go down to the river and bring me back a basket of water." The boy did as he was told and the water all leaked out of the basket before he could get it back to the house. Laughing, the grandfather said, "you are going to have to move faster the next time." Even though he did run faster, the boy still couldn't return before the water all ran out of the basket. When the boy went to get a bucket, the grandfather said, "I don't want a bucket of water. I want a basket of water. You're just not trying hard enough."
Knowing the task was impossible, the boy wanted to show his grandpa that it just couldn't be done so he ran as fast as he could. By the time he got back, the basket was empty and he was out of breath. "See Papa, it's useless!"
The grandfather said, "Tell me what you see when you look in the basket." When he looked in the basket, the boy saw that the basket which had been dirty from holding coal, was now clean. "Son, that's what happens when you read the Bible. You might not understand or remember everything, but when you read the Bible, it will cleanse you and change you from the inside out."
Because the Bible is not just a compilation of writings from human beings, but rather comes from the heart and mind of God, it reveals us and speaks to us in super human ways (Hebrews 4:12; Isaiah 55:10&11). There is no logical or rational way to describe how God is able to speak to us with such great timing and power the way He does in His Word. It can only be His Holy Spirit who leads us to find what we need to hear in this big book, at precisely the exact time we need to hear it.
Regardless of what time of year it is, accept the challenge of reading through God's Word every year for the rest of your life. You can either call the church office and order a chronological Bible which puts our reading in the order events actually occurred. Or, you can look online and order one, simply by typing in, "Chronological Bible" in your Search space.
You will not always remember everything you read, but I can promise you after being through it eleven straight years that my thinking about many topics has changed and my life has changed with it, for the positive. Quit making up excuses and JUST DO IT!
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