Here’s to My Best Friend…A Sister’s Toast

This past week my family and I spent the week on the west coast. Our niece, Karissa, and her fiance John, were married in Visalia, California on Saturday, July 20th…Congratulations! We enjoyed the nostalgic stops along Route 66 (from Amarillo, TX to Barstow, CA) as well as the majesty of the Grand Canyon. Our ten day trip concluded as we stopped at the Palo Duro Canyon to enjoy TEXAS. An excellent, cross-country family trip we enjoyed together across this great nation. But my personal highlight was the reason for the trip… John & Karissa’s wedding day.

Our oldest son was honored to serve as one of John’s groomsmen, and our youngest was an usher. And though those two were excited to share in this day with their cousin, during the reception Karissa’s only sister summed up the day. After 22 years, Tiffany offered a toast to her ‘best friend’ and life-long companion. This ‘speech’ is a great example of how you honor your family & friend. Congratulations Karissa and thank you, Tiffany!

“My name is Tiffini, and I’m Karissa’s older, and only sister. About a year ago I realized I would be making this speech and when John proposed to Karissa I knew what I had to do. I told her I better start thinking about which happy and touching moments to reflect on while I’m up here. Without a pause she turned to me and said, “Tiffini, I’m going to be emotional and will probably be crying on and off during the day, so during your few minutes of giving a speech, you better make me laugh.” No pressure, right?

So I started to think what would make you laugh. Most of our jokes are inside jokes, so no one here would get it when I quote a random line from a movie or song. They wouldn’t get it if I talked about something funny we made up after sitting in a car together for three or more days straight during one of our many family vacations, or something hilarious we made up when making fun of one of our late night movies. You might laugh and some people might find it funny if I relayed one of our many silly and impromptu adventures, like the time I pretended to rob you at the bank and it just so happened that your co-worker saw the whole incident and when you went in to work the next day she asked if you were okay. But stories like that take too long.

And then I finally realized what I’d do. I’d quote you. For those who don’t know, Karissa wrote a special card to each of her bridesmaids and gave them to us a couple of days ago. When I opened mine it said, “We have way too many jokes for me to write down…” And I got to thinking, we have 22 years of jokes and memories that I can’t fit into a less than five minute speech. And the reason for this is even better explained in Karissa’s last line in the card she gave me. She wrote, “I love you a ton, not because we’re sisters, but we’re also best friends.”

This isn’t the first time I’ve heard this. I’ve heard a lot of people tell us over the years that we act more like friends than sisters and that we get along very well for being siblings. I will always remember the first time we were given the title of best friend-sisters. I’ve always considered Karissa the best friend I’ve ever had. So of course her card touched me and I wanted to say thank you to my sister for the loving words she wrote, but before I could say this she quietly said to me, “I wrote all of those bridesmaids cards really late at night and yours was the last one. I have no idea what I wrote to you.”

That’s okay. It’s her wedding day, so I’ll forgive her for that one. But hopefully I got you to laugh a little bit.

I haven’t left you out John. I’ve been hearing about John a lot from my sister the last few years, but it hasn’t been until this last month or so that I’ve really gotten to know him. This last memory is for you.

If you don’t already know, my family loves Disney, especially Disneyland. (I told you two I’d fit Disneyland into this). If we ever go on vacation, it’s to Disneyland, dubbed “THE HAPPIEST PLACE ON EARTH!” I’ve noticed over the past 22 years that Karissa tends to hold in her excitement about things. But when we are in the car, on the way to Disneyland, Karissa will be singing every verse of ‘It’s a Small World’ in each language; (which I still can’t figure out how she learned to do that). I guess she just can’t help it. She’ll start to sway back and forth, fidget in her seat, and almost bounce around when we see that sign that says Disneyland. She can’t contain herself. It’s rare to see her get that excited about something.

So I found it interesting last summer when we took a family trip to Arkansas to visit John and his family, and we had just arrived to John’s hometown, and we were at the hotel room (of course Karissa and I always had to share a room or a bed when traveling… the stories I could tell you). I was trying to watch TV and I see Karissa pacing back and forth next to the door, bouncing up and down, kinda holding her breath like she’s waiting for something. Up until this point the only thing that’s ever made her this crazy is Disneyland, so I ask her what she’s doing. And she says, “I haven’t seen him since our school year ended. John’s almost here.”

It was when she said this that I realized Disneyland was no longer the happiest place on earth for Karissa. The happiest place on earth for her is wherever John is. So John, if you’re doing better than Disneyland, I think you’re doing pretty alright.

So here’s to John and Karissa:

“May your marriage be a long, loving, and happy one. You both will forever be in my heart and I love you both. And may your home always be blessed and open for me to crash in for random movie nights.”

1, July 26, 20131, July 25, 2013

Sermons from an Empty Pew…July 28th

You might be familiar with the adage, “Actions speak louder than words.” A smile might tell you someone is happy while a frown expresses disappointment or frustration. But honestly, what sermon could we possible hear from an empty seat? Is anything to be learned when someone is missing from church services. Is it that big of a deal when someone is ‘MIA’ from the assembly?

Each Sunday morning God’s people come together to worship, edify, study and commemorate Christ’s sacrifice on Calvary. But what are the consequences when a Christian doesn’t come? What is the lesson we can learn from ‘an empty pew?’

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

Sunday morning, July 28, 2013

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

“O Worship the King” -144

A great song of praise and that many are familiar with. But with familiarity comes an opportunity for laziness. We know some songs so well we sing them without given them much thought, a dangerous maneuver. For example; we sing the third verse with energy, “O worship the King, all glorious above, And gratefully sing His wonderful love; (no problem so far, we understand what we’re saying) Our Shield and Defender, the Ancient of Days, pavilion-ed in splendor and girded with praise.” When you sing this song recognize that as God is covered with brilliancy (magnificence), He is also surrounded (enthroned) with praise!”

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

Are there things you are ashamed of? Things you’d rather not have ‘in the open?’ Is your faith in Jesus one of those things? Without hesitation we would say “NO”, but how many of your peers on the job or in your circle of influence know how important Jesus is to you? Some might say they are not ashamed of Christ, but the question comes in the next line…will you defend His cause?

“Til My Faith Becomes Sight” – 836

“Tho they slay me, tho I fall; in darkness You are light, Jesus. I will keep my eyes on You till my faith becomes sight.” Dennis Jernigan writes this song and some may wonder, who would slay me; I know there’s times I fall, but how can I keep my eyes on Jesus when it’s dark? Remember the battle and keep in mind, our falling and the darkness of this world is not physical, but spiritual. Keep your eyes on Christ as your faith is strengthened in Him.

“Take Time to Be Holy” – 731

The message of this song is simple, but extremely thorough. Notice what happens when we take the time to be holy. We will speak often with our Lord. We will feed on His word (read the Bible). We’ll make friends of God’s children, the family of God, and we’ll help those who are weak. Then above everything else (in all that we do), we will seek His blessings. And to think, that’s just the first verse!

“We Gather Together” – no book

Some might remember this old hymn (spiritual song) as one we sang in November, around Thanksgiving time. It does lean toward being thankful for all God has given us, but my intention is for us to consider this first line; “We gather together to ask the Lord’s blessing…” As a congregation of God’s people we need to be ready, willing and eager to gather together.

“How Firm a Foundation” – 457

Ask any engineer and you’ll hear that your structure is only a solid as the foundation it’s built upon. In Christ we have a firm foundation, one that won’t crack, shift or crumble throughout the years. A foundation with a guarantee, a seal as Paul says when writing to Timothy, “…the firm foundation of God stands, having this seal, ‘The Lord knows those who are His,’ and “Everyone who names the name of the Lord is to abstain from wickedness.’ “ So, how is your foundation? Or maybe you should ask, how’s your seal?

“Great Are You, Lord” – no book

Before our lesson this morning we’ll praise God with this hymn of praise. ‘Holy Lord, most holy Lord! You alone are worth of our praise!’ He is great and He is worthy. Lift up your voice and give God the praise. This morning, tomorrow morning, every morning we should be ready to proclaim, “GREAT ARE YOU LORD!”

“I Am Resolved” – 948

Every January 1st you find people making their ‘new year’s resolutions.’ A time when you say you fix your mind toward accomplishing your goals. A time when you promise yourself personal achievement. A new year, a new start, a new goal. But this invitation song is more than just a first of the year promise. As we sing, we sing to confirm a promise. We are resolved no longer to linger, to go to the Savior, to follow the Savior, and ultimately, to enter the kingdom. In your resolution do you hasten to Him or just take your time?

“Will Jesus Find Us Watching” – no book

When Jesus comes back to receive His own where will you be? What will you be doing? This spiritual song is one I remember from my child-hood. Standing in the auditorium at 1st Street church of Christ in Dumas, Texas I remember standing beside my brother and singing the chorus of this song, “O can we say we are ready, brother? Ready for the souls bright home? Say, will He find you and me still watching, waiting, waiting when the Lord shall come?” So…how about it; are you ready, are you watching?

1, July 19, 20131, July 19, 2013

The Danger of Drifting…July 21st

Without an anchor, a boat will drift and the stability of it’s location is lost. We drop anchor to secure us and keep us from drifting away. Scripture is rich in comparing our souls to a vessel and our anchor to Christ. The Hebrew writer explains, ‘This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil…’ (6:19)

But what’s the ‘big deal’ with drifting and why should we be concerned about losing our position? Is there peril in falling away? Consider how helpless you feel when you sink beneath the waves, not able to touch bottom and realizing all hope is being covered in breathlessness. That happens the minute we start to drift.

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

Sunday morning, July 21, 2013

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

“Oh, Praise the Lord” 282

From the pen of the Psalmist, this ‘hymn’ is a direct praise to our God (logically, it could call it a psalm as well). Can you see the passion in this song of praise! “O praise the Lord, all ye nations; praise Him all ye people, for His merciful kindness is great toward us; and the truth of the Lord endureth forever…praise ye the Lord!”

“Marvelous Things” – 209

A contemporary, spiritual song with a strong, 4-part harmony. The soprano’s open with eight, simple words; ‘He has done marvelous things. Praise the Lord.’ Each part joins in succession (alto, tenor, bass) with the same message; ‘marvelous things…’ Considering what God has done it makes sense we’d conclude with the acclamation, ‘Praise the Lord!’

“Christ We Do All Adore Thee” – 186

As we prepare our minds for the Lord’s supper, we’ll sing this hymn as we honor and praise our God. “Christ, we do all adore Thee, and we do praise Thee forever…” Some might wonder how we could sing this song in preparing our minds for this memorial supper, but notice the second line, “…for on the holy cross hast Thou the world from sin redeemed…” How much more do we need to remind ourselves of His sacrifice? Christ, we DO all adore Thee!

“Sun of My Soul” – 806
“Jesus, Lover of My Soul” – 807
“Abide with Me” – 808

This medley is prearranged in the hymnal Faith & Praise, edited by Alton Howard. Consider the message; in a lost (drifting) and dark world, where do you go to find light and stability? In this physical world we have a sun shining in our sky, but in the spiritual realm, what is our source illumination? The ‘sun for our soul’ is our Savior! And our Savior, as the storms of life threaten and the waters roll, He cares for us and loves us. So it only makes sense that we would cry out, “Abide with me, fast falls the eventide…(the end of life)” The message for the Christian is clear, without our God we have no hope. No comfort in this earth or even in earthly friends. Jesus Christ is our help when we are helpless, He is the ‘lover’ of our souls and He shines as the sun of our souls!

“My Hope is Built on Nothing Less” – 538

Do you have an opinion, what do you think? Where do you stand? Are you solid about your position or are you able to be swayed? Questions like these are used to establish one’s belief. Where is your ‘stand’ when it comes to the hope that is within you? (I Peter 3:15) As for me, my hope is built on the blood of Jesus Christ… and on nothing less! On Christ, the solid Rock I stand! How about you?

“We Have an Anchor” – 467

Before the lesson this morning the congregation will sing to one another with this old, post-Civil War, spiritual song from Priscilla Owens (1874). Take note of the question and answer we sing to one another in psalms, hymns and spiritual songs; Will your anchor hold in the storms of life? As the winds begin to howl and the waves behind to roll we ask the question, will your anchor drift or firm remain? Singing to one another we answer from scripture (Hebrews 6:19), “We have an anchor that keeps the soul steadfast and sure while the billows roll, fastened to the Rock (Jesus Christ) which cannot move, grounded firm and deep in the Savior’s love.”

“Behold a Stranger at the Door” – 919

Our invitation song calls our attention to Jesus and how we treat Him. Jesus came to ‘seek and save that which was lost’ Luke 19:10, but how do we treat Him as He comes to the door of our heart? He gently knocks, and for some, this isn’t the first time. For many He still waits to enter into the heart, but how is He treated? Received or rejected? Accepted or ignored? Joseph Grigg’s wrote, “…you treat no other friend so ill.” Receive your friends with open arms, but consider how you’ll treat the Son of God on a daily basis.

“Heaven Came Down” – 517

As this morning’s worship service comes to a close we’ll sing this spiritual song about living a Christian life. A beautiful message but notice the second verse; “Born of the Spirit with life from above into God’s family divine. Justified fully through Calvary’s love, O what a standing is mine! (Where DO you stand?) And the transaction so quickly was made, when as a sinner I came. Took of the offer of grace He did proffer, He saved me! O praise His dear name…” To proffer is to give a gift expecting an answer, either accept it or not. He has given us hope for eternal life. What will you do with is offer? Just keep in mind, when we accept God’s gift of love, we have an anchor to keep our soul from drifting.

1, July 15, 20131, June 19, 2013

Shaky Hands

Donna Holloway has penned a few articles for this website. Late last year (December, 2012) she shared this experience with me as she joined her aging parents for Sunday worship. The names of the men serving are her relatives and immediate family members. Thanks for the reminder of how fragile life can be.

This past Sunday afternoon I was touched by several things I observed while attending the worship service my Dad holds at Sand Plum Assisted Living Center in Bixby, Oklahoma. The services are held in a small room off to the side of the common living area. My dad reserves this room from 4:00 – 5:00 on Sunday afternoons so the residents can attend worship services. Generally one of the men from the Bixby congregation comes to help him oversee the service; but this past Sunday he called on Richard for the lesson, Phillip to lead the singing, Paul & Brent to coordinate Lord’s Supper and then my Dad led a prayer.

First off, Mom & Dad set up the room and prepared the bread and the fruit of the vine into the trays. Mom seemed to remember what to do and enjoyed helping Dad set up. She even went to get me a cup of water on her own, and didn’t seem confused about where to go. Several residents, mostly ladies along with one tall gentleman came for the service. Some left their walkers in the hall; others needed them to get to their seat or to sit upon. The lady that sat by me was pleasant and participated in every way; she turned to the scripture readings, sang from her hymnal and partook of the Lord’s Supper. Although Dad and Mom still have a car and go to worship in Bixby, many of these folks aren’t able to get out.

As I watched and participated in this afternoon service, I was particular fascinated as these older folks took the Lord’s Supper. Their devotion to this memorial touched me deeply. With confident, yet shaky hands, they reached in with some difficulty to pick up a small piece of the bread. As the men began to serve the juice Dad quietly told them to please hand each one a cup, and so they did. With outstretched hands, still shaking, each resident was able to drink from their cup and then place it back into the tray. I guess the shaking hands are what made me realize how important this worship is to these aging Christians. It means a great deal to them as I imagine it will to me one day when I’m in a similar situation.

I’m not surprised my Dad has taken this on and I’m so proud he’s doing it. He has always been one to quietly notice what needs to be done and doesn’t shy away from serving.

It was good to see Mom helping him set up and feeling confident in what she was doing. Being in the early stages of dementia, she stays confused most any other time.

At the end of the service, one 98 year old lady, quickly left saying the service ran a little long this week. Others were friendly to visit and showed their thankfulness to the men who led the service.

Until we had participated with the singing at Dayspring Assisted Living Center in Plano, Texas I had very little experience around older people. I am thankful for the opportunity Waterview church of Christ provided during those few precious years for us to sing for the residents at Dayspring. It was good for me to learn how to be around the sweet, aging folks.

Perhaps you’ve been encouraged and have enjoyed reading about my experience in Bixby. Due to my Dad’s job of moving every few years and living so much of my childhood overseas, I had only a few years to spend time with grandparents, and most of those visits were short in time. Perhaps you’d say I have been a ‘late’ learner about the blessing of older people. So if you have a love the older, aging folks, I encourage you to demonstrate your love and compassion to them by giving of your most cherished possession…your time. Just remember…each day God gives us on this earth we ourselves are growing closer to having ‘shaky hands!’

This world is not my home, but while I’m here it makes sense to be a support and encouragement to God’s family. Thanks Donna for your encouragement.

1, July 12, 20131, July 12, 2013

The Good Samerican…July 14th

Jesus tells the story of a man who was traveling on the road to Jericho only to be ‘mugged’ by highway robbers. Being stripped of all he had and left for dead (literally) the man is at the mercy of those who pass by as they too travel the road. You know how the parable goes and the cast of characters. And most likely you’ve considered which one you would be.

Most would like to say that in the circumstances described in Christ’s parable we’d follow the lead of the man from Samaria. But have you considered what it would take to truly help someone who is broken and bleeding? Would you walk across the road for your neighbor or are you ‘too busy?’ Here in America we live a good life and pretty much ‘want for nothing.’ We know lots of good American’s, but it might take some uncomfortable steps if we are to act like the good Samaritan.

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

Sunday morning, July 14, 2013

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

“Hallelujah, Praise Jehovah” -3

Pick up your bible and turn to Psalm chapter 148. This song we’ll be singing is indeed a ‘psalm’ and is almost a word-for-word account from the chapter. From the hills and mountains to the beast and cattle, we sing this song of praise. Whether you see yourself as young man or a maiden we must all be praising God. Don’t let the birds that in the heavens fly out sing your praise!

“For the Beauty of the Earth” – 67

Consider this first verse, “For the beauty of the earth, for the beauty of the skies, for the love which from our birth over and around us lies: Lord of all to Thee we raise this our sacrifice of praise.” Do you think this praise is for our physical birth or our spiritual birth? The love that surrounds us (over and above) comes from God. Makes you think doesn’t it?

“I Sing Praises” – 97

A ‘contemporary song’ that is simple in verse. We’ll conclude this medley of ‘praise songs because our God’s name, ‘…is great and greatly to be praised.’ Hallelujah! Praise Jehovah…

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

We’ll turn our minds to the cross and Christ sacrifice using this contemporary song reminding us of the love of God. The last verse is one of striking value to me…“I will not boast in anything; no gifts no power no wisdom. But I will boast in Jesus Christ, His death and resurrection…” Quoting Paul in Galatians 6:14 “…may it never be that I would boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ…”

“I’ll Live for Him” – 553

Between the bread and the fruit of the vine we’ll softly sing the third (often omitted) verse. “O Thou who died on Calvary…” Many have missed the point of emotion in our songs. We don’t sing to serve ourselves or those who are listening, we sing to glorify and edify the family of God. In my humble opinion, the heart is more important than the voice.

“Sweet Adoration” – 253

Where do you turn for comfort in times of trouble? How do face the frustrations of this world and temptations that seem to be endless? Try this…come to the Savior, give Him your heart-felt praise and adoration. As you give your all to adoration, little is left for focusing on your trials. Admiration and adoration are essential elements when we recognize our Savior.

“To Love Someone More Dearly” – 636

We all have a job to do in this life. Some are willing to immerse themselves wholly into their work. Others just ‘get the job done.’ But there is one task we need to make a priority in our life; to love someone more dearly! To help a wandering child who’s lost or even just to ponder over something that is good and worthy of our time. Our task might be as simple as praying or smiling. The man from Samaria would have sung this song with full conviction.

“A Beautiful Life” – 570

This is a strong spiritual song with a full bass lead in the chorus. But what do we mean, ‘…life’s evening sun is sinking low…’, are we really talking about death in this upbeat, ‘exciting to sing’ song? Certainly, when life is over, we will meet our Creator and be held accountable for our deeds. Are you one who is trying to lift a traveler’s load? As you strive to be a child of God, remember, your ‘…life must shine along the way.’

“Wonderful Story of Love” – 286

Not a typical invitation song, but when you listen to what we’re saying I think you’ll agree. “Sinner, O won’t you believe it (the wonderful story of love)?” Through His love, the wonderful story of love, Jesus continues to call us to come to Him, since the dawn of creation even until today.

“Let the Lower Lights Be Burning” – 642

I’ve always enjoyed this old spiritual song about shining our light to the lost world. The imagine is clear as we consider the responsible we have in reaching out to those who are bruised and bleeding. The traveler on the road or the sailor on the sea are bound to face difficult times. How willing are we to shine our light, walk across the path and offer them a Savior! The good Samaritan did!

1, July 9, 20131, June 19, 2013

Do We Want More? (part 2)

Oliver is a young, orphan boy who, at the tender age of nine, lives each day with other orphans at the ‘workhouse.’ His daily routine is much like every boy in the orphanage. He isn’t a trouble maker, but he does something no one else is willing to do. After finishing his bowl of gruel (porridge), with a trembling hand, he returns to food line and utters the famous line, “Please Sir, I want some more…”

Charles Dickens authors this literally piece and many have adapted Oliver Twist to their own version of orphans and the homeless. The story is an interesting one, but our focus is centered on the words of this fictitious nine-year old, “…I want some more.” If we’re truthful with ourselves we would admit that each of us, in some form or fashion want more. But as we’ve studied previous, what more do we want?

Let’s continue the study of the hymn written and composed by Philip Bliss in 1873. Interestingly enough, this song was penned less than 35 years after Dickens wrote Oliver Twist. As you might remember, we sing the word ‘more’ twenty-four (24) times during the course of song “More Holiness Give Me”. Let’s continue our deeper examination of what more we could possibly be aspiring toward.

In verse two we sing (and seek); more gratitude, more trust, more pride and more hope . More tears, more pain, more meekness and more praise. One by one we consider what are we asking God to give us ‘more’ of:

1) More gratitude give me… Our prayers are often laced with thankfulness. We’re thankful for the day, the food, the good night’s rest so why ask for more thankfulness? Gratitude is synonymous with thankfulness but often we ramble out our prayer of thanks without processing why we have what we have. God has given us EVERYTHING! For that alone we should have gratitude. Personally, I don’t get tired of hearing thank you from my children. Do you suppose God is the same?

2) More trust in the Lord… David wrote in Psalm 20:7, “Some boast (trust) in chariots and some in horses, But we will boast (trust) in the name of the Lord, our God.” With some much self-proclaimed wisdom, our culture and this present generation has come to trust in self. So much has been accomplished and achieved during the last 50 years we have become masters in our own right. What do we trust? Who do we trust? Would that we prayer for more trust in the Lord. “…the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.”

3) More pride in His glory. Each of us knows the swell of pride we feel when our team is victorious. We take pride in knowing we have succeeded in this task or that accomplishment. But more pride in HIS glory means I take pride in giving God glory. We humble ourselves and take pride in knowing our God, He is Alive.

4) More hope in His word. The word “hope” can mean to long for something, wish for it; or it can mean trust or confidence. Our hope in God’s word is not to wish for it to be what it claims to be, but to put our trust and our confidence in His word. You’ll remember we sang that we pray for more trust in the Lord (previous line), and now we turn our prayer to be confident (hope) in His word!

5) More tears for His sorrows. Each week we gather and remember the Lord’s death, burial and resurrection. With the Lord’s Supper we keep Jesus’ sacrifice every in our minds and hearts. But be careful that this time doesn’t become routine. Remember the words of Isaiah (chapter 53) when he prophesy’s about the Messiah saying, “…He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief…” (KJV) Do we weep when we consider His death? We need more tears for His sorrows.

6) More pain at His grief. Again, looking to Isaiah 53 we are reminded of His grief. As we sing this hymn we are asking that we feel the pain, as we shed the tears, for our Savior’s grief. Undoubtedly you’ve said something like, “That breaks my heart!” Simply an expression of pain for someone’s grief. Does Jesus’ suffering (grief) break your heart?

7) More meekness in trial. My mind immediately goes to the book of Matthew and the words of Jesus in the 5th chapter, “…whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also.” (vs. 39) But we shouldn’t be surprised when we consider what Jesus said just a few sentences earlier (vs. 5), “Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.” When someone slaps you down (trials), are you fighting mad…or meekly enduring?

8) More praise for relief. In baseball there is a position known as the ‘relief pitcher.’ The man who take over for the ‘starting’ pitcher. He may be there because the starter was injured or perhaps just exhausted. Either way, there is a relief for the starter. In the sport of baseball the relief pitcher isn’t always praised. He may fail to ‘provide’ the relief he was called to deliver. But in the case of Jesus, He is our answer to the injury and exhaustion we feel on a daily basis. He is our relief, our salvation, and He never fails. When we understand and accept Him in that way, we’ll know that we need to give Him more praise for our salvation…He is our relief…

We’ll continue this song in later weeks, but until that time take a look at the last verse of this song; there are still eight more…’mores’.

1, July 6, 20131, July 6, 2013

What Will We See in Heaven?…July 7th

Many think of heaven in terms as they remember from the book of Revelation, specifically chapter 21. Images come to mind such as, ‘the pearly gates, streets of gold and the endless day.’ The scriptures do read, “The material of the wall was jasper; and the city was pure gold…the twelve gates were twelve pearls; each one of the gates was a single pearl.” It’s true that we visualize heaven in terms as John described it.

But Sunday morning, July 7th, we’ll consider what we will see based on heavenly IDEALS such as ‘no mourning, or crying, or pain.’ After all, it was God who told John (Revelation 21:5), “Behold, I am making all things new.” Join us as we look through ‘the pearly gates.’

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

Sunday morning, July 7, 2013

The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“Awesome God” -38

Do we truly hold God as an awesome God? Can we say we are honestly ‘in awe of Him?’ Be careful not to dilute the word ‘awesome’ by describing a movie or even an experience as awesome. Our God is an awesome God; Deuteronomy 10:17 and Nehemiah 1:5 are two great examples of who is awesome.

“You Are the Song that I Sing” – 238

As part of this morning’s ‘medley’ we’ll transition from singing that “…our God is an awesome God!” to praising Him as ‘the song that I sing…” Later this week, when you’re singing in the car, will you be singing about God, or are you singing world’s tunes. Perhaps we should be giving back to God our voice, our song, the very reason of our hope to Him who gave us a song to sing.

“When All of God’s Singer’s Get Home” – 859

Have you ever walked into your home after Sunday morning services and immediately caught the whiff of a roast cooking? The aroma wafts through the air and we realize there is something wonderful waiting for us. But, as we sing, ‘…the joy can’t compare with the glory up there…’ our songs of praise and encouragement should be a sweet reminder of how beautiful heaven must be. “What a song of delight in that city so bright will be wafted ‘neath heaven’s fair dome…” Like the lingering smell of roast as it drifts through the air, so is the heart-felt singing of praise to our God. “When all of God’s children get home…”; coming in the pearly gates we can anticipate, hear and almost smell what’s been cooking and what is waiting for us!

“Worthy is the Lamb” – no book

The tune from the song “Just As I Am” is used with the words to this hymn taken from the book of Revelation.
“O Holy Lamb, Thou Son of God most Holy Lord, most worthy Lord. Standing in the center of God’s throne. Oh worthy is the Lamb, the Lamb.” It’s interesting that these ‘recent’ words, taken from Revelation and written/arranged by Jeff Nelson are blended with the music of William Bradbury written long ago. Nelson penned the words 150 years after Bradbury penned the music. But John recorded the image of ‘the Lamb’ over 2000 years ago. And the singer (sinner) still bows in response…“O Lamb of God, I come!”

“Earth Holds No Treasure” – 884

Where do you put your treasures? Maybe you should ask yourself; ‘what are my treasures?’ What do you value most in this life? The most important things in our life are kept in a safe and secure location. But is this world really secure? How ‘safe’ can a safety deposit box really be? Time and storms will ravage our homes and the field can be easily flooded beyond recognition. Is this earth where we hold our treasures? Maybe we are holding on to something that’s not worth our grip? Tillet S. Teddlie says it best in the third verse of this song; “Why should I long for this world and it’s sorrows…?” Good question.

“Sweet By and By” – 878

In the sweet by and by (heaven) we trust there’s a land that is fairer than anything we’ve ever experienced. Do we know that for sure? Has anyone been there and returned with pictures of the beautiful shore? John gives us our best glimpse into that realm as we read the book of Revelation. No one has seen heaven, “but by faith we can see it afar.”

“Where the Gates Swing Outward Never” – 864

Before our lesson we’ll sing this old spiritual song about gates that don’t ‘swing outward.’ What an image that the gates of heaven (Revelation 21:25) will never close! Humbled we should considered that in ‘a few more days’ or ‘a few more years’ we’ll ‘wake to see Him for whom my (our) heart is burning…’ How many of us can honestly say we have a heart that is burning to see the Savior, a heart that is yearning to go home?

“In the Land of Fadeless Day” – 890

The chorus of this song has always brought encouragement to me; “God shall wipe away all tears…” . It echoes the words of Revelation 21:4, but continues on into the 16th verse and provides the title for this spiritual song. “The city is laid out as a square, and its length is as great as the width…” (four square) Perhaps not a traditional invitation song, but what a great reminder that the gates of heaven (vs. 3) never close.

“Just Over in the Glory-Land” – no book

“What a joyful thought that my Lord I’ll see, just over in the glory-land; and with kindred saved there forever be, just over in the glory-land!” Kindred saved…what (who) is kindred? We don’t use that term much today, ‘kinfolk,’ but that is a term used to identify family. We are the family of God so it makes since to say we’ll go home to be with our kin when this life is over. Where is home? Just over the way…in glory-land!

1, July 4, 20131, July 5, 2013

Looking Into the Dawn

There are some who are ‘early birds’ while others are ‘night owls.’ You’ve heard that the ‘early bird’ gets the worm, and the ‘night owl’ keeps vigil through the evening hours. We all have our preferences when it comes to the morning watch or the late night. Some are early to bed, early to rise while others burn the midnight oil; we know the difference.

To be honest we could examine the benefits one’s sleeping habits might have, but for the sake of this article, let’s consider what we might SEE during the early morning hours. The sun is breaking over the horizon and the sky changes from deep shades of midnight blue to soft tones of lavender. A beautiful sight to behold!

Depending on your location you might see a mist hovering over the valley, or feel the coolness in a mid-summer’s morning. The reflection of the rising sun on the lake or the serenity of your sleeping spouse is sure to open the eyes of even the weariest dreamer. But there was one early morning when a lawyer and amateur poet strained his eyes to see what he feared he had lost. He was looking for something he had seen several hours early in the fading twilight. Perhaps he didn’t even sleep as he was anticipating the sight. But as the story goes, this 35 year old man waited patiently aboard a British Navy vessel waiting to see the dawn’s light illuminate an American symbol, the US flag that flew over Ft. Henry.

In 1814, during the War of 1812, Francis Scott Key was an attorney working toward a prisoner exchange with the British Navy. During his visit aboard the British flagship TONNANT, he was met with resistance and was not immediately released. The reason; he had seen and heard too much of an upcoming attack on the town of Baltimore and her strong-hold, Fort Henry. (An interesting bit of information; the commanding officer at Ft. Henry, Major George Armistead, requested a large flag to fly over the fort. One so large, he said, “the British would have no trouble seeing it from a distance.” The seamstress recruited for this 30 x 42 foot standard was Mary Young Pickersgill and her 13 year old daughter. The two women cut fifteen stars that measured two feet from point to point. In addition, eight red and seven white stripes, two feet wide, were cut and sewn together to form the US flag for Ft. Henry. This highly visible banner proved to be very motivational to many Americans.)

The attack on Ft. Henry and Baltimore lasted 25 hours while more than 1,500 bombshells were sent to their target. The British fired the new ‘Congreve rockets’ that traced wobbly arcs of red flame across the night sky as the assault continued long into the evening hours. With both a land and sea attack, eventually the British cannons ceased their firing. Then around 1:00 in the morning, the British ships came to life again. This time, they lit up the night sky with a monstrous display of fireworks. While the cannon’s were roaring and rockets were flashing, Francis Scott Key and the other Americans drew hope knowing Ft. Henry had not yet surrendered. Then long before day break, in the predawn of the early morning, a sudden and mysterious silence filled the air.

Francis Scott Key waited in the darkness as his eyes strained to see the horizon and the wave of the enormous Ft. Henry flag. The British had determined that Baltimore and Ft. Henry were too costly of a prize. The retreat of the British navy had been ordered. Francis Scott Key penned what he saw and at the same time asked a question to all Americans throughout the ages. Other verses were written, but there is some discrepancy as to which ones came from the pen of Francis Scott Key.

O say can you see by the dawn’s early light,
What so proudly we hailed at the twilight’s last gleaming,
Whose broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight,
O’er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming?
And the rockets’ red glare, the bombs bursting in air,
Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there;
O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave,
O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?

Whether you’re an ‘early bird’ or not, the next time you wake up before the rising of the sun, look into the dawn and consider the freedom you have. Wipe the sleep from your eyes and remember the battle of Ft. Henry in 1814. We are a blessed nation. One with freedoms we don’t necessarily understand nor fully appreciate. Our nation is the land of the free, but it’s up to you and me if we are to continue to be the home of the brave. Open your eyes and look into the dawn’s early light. Search with pride and see the broad stripes and bright stars. Francis Scott Key would be proud to know, they’re still there!

1, July 1, 20131, July 1, 2013

LTC…Be Devoted

In the spring of 2009 this group of young men came together to praise God with their voices. They practiced for weeks on end to learn how to harmonize and lift before the Father several songs of praise. These boys were ‘devoted’ to giving God the glory and sought to encourage those who listened. Though the years have passed and they’ve ‘grown and moved away,’ they continue to uplift and edify God’s people with songs of praise. Take a few minutes to hear their voices and listen to them as they praise the Father. A memory from the 2009, Leadership Training for Christ.

LTC (Leadership Training for Christ) has been a constant focus for the Waterview church of Christ for more than 30 years. Students have studied, practiced and devoted months to reading the scripture, Bible bowl, singing with small groups, and song leading as well as public speaking (sermon preparation), sign language and many other areas of preparation to serve in the kingdom of God. All the while, these young people are being trained and encouraged to give God the glory.

In 2009, seventeen young men (now in college or college graduates) came together to sing 3 songs with the hope of edifying the congregation and glorifying their God. These men sang three songs, Surround Us, Lord, and a medley consisting of Poured Out Like Wine, Make Me New, Teach Me Thy Ways and I Am Mine No More. They concluded with a song taken from the text of Galatians 6:2 and Romans 12:10-13, Be Devoted.

My prayer is that you will enjoy listening to these young men as they praise God with the voice of youth. The first song, Surround Us, Lord comes from the book of Psalms, chapter 125, verse 2… “As the mountains surround Jerusalem, So the Lord surrounds His people From this time forth and forever.” When times are difficult and the way seems hard, don’t forget; the Lord surrounds His people!

The concluding song, Be Devoted, took lots of practice and work. As noted earlier, the words are taken from Galatians 6 and Romans 12. Notice how clearly this passage speaks to our relationship with each other: “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.”

Carry each other’s burdens
Carry each other’s burdens
And in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ

Chorus:
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love
Honor one another above yourselves
Never be lacking in zeal
Keep your spiritual fervor
Keep your spiritual fervor
Serving the Lord

Love one another
Serve one another
Pray for each other
Encourage one another
And build each other up

Chorus:

Be devoted to one another in brotherly love

Thanks guys for the reminder from years gone by. My prayer is that you will stay faithful to God’s word and honor your song to be devoted in brotherly love. We are reminded by your song that we are to be poured out before the King, commit ourselves to being new (putting off the old self) and then seek to have Him teach us His ways. When we do that, we will no longer be our own. May God bless each of you and your walk with Christ.