31.3.10

March 31, 2010

Opening Hymns:
Over the Top for Jesus (http://nethymnal.org/htm/o/v/e/overtopj.htm)
Because He Lives 20 (Red)

Scripture Reading:
Hebrews 9:11-15

Message Imperfection
I’m not perfect… None of us are. Each day we are bombarded with reminders of that imperfection. Commercials point out things we “lack” in our lives and ways that we can be made better. With their products we can have the “perfect” shiny hair, flawless skin, and long beautiful eye lashes. The imperfection that hits us the most is often not our looks, but our actions words… and sins.

At times it can seem as though we are falling behind everyone else. Every mistake that we make may be played over and over in our minds. All our sins can at times haunt us. However, the scripture for today reminds us that Jesus’ sacrifice cleanses us from the guilt, the sin, and the eternal death from sin. We can continue ahead with the goal of doing our best for the world and the Lord. But when we find that our souls aren’t the shiniest, our actions are not flawless, and our words are not far reaching and beautiful… we must remember Jesus’ gift of forgiveness, accept His cleansing… and move on clean and forgiven.


Time of Prayer

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn

I Exalt Thee 9 (Red)

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, and serve the Lord
Thanks be to God

30.3.10

March 30, 2010

Opening Hymns:
Did You Feel the Mountains Tremble? 45 (B/B)
This is the Day 219 (B/B)

Scripture Reading:
Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29

Message Forever
“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” At times when I feel lost and separated from God, this is a wonderful reminder. No matter what has caused the separation between me and God,, His love will be there “forever.” It is especially comforting during the difficult times in our lives. When we have gone beyond what we physically or emotionally could bear, God is still there with us… and no matter what sin we have committed, God will still love us.

Some people are talking about how the world is going to end in 2012… if that is the case the end is near (though I rather doubt it will happen then). We may lose our internet; our telephone signals may no longer work. Natural disasters may increase… but no matter what we lose, be it our very lives there is one thing that will always remain with us, God’s love. It surpasses death and goes beyond the mere 23yrs that I have lived. If there comes a time when you feel everything is lost, please remember that there is one thing that you can never lose.


Time of Prayer

*Respond: Lord hear our prayer
For those who feel that they have lost everything, that they might feel Your holy presence and be reminded that You will always be with them and love them we pray to the Lord*

For all students and teachers as the school year is coming to the end, that they might be given enough energy to finish, focus, grow, and learn we pray to the Lord*

For people planning vacations this summer that the vacation might strengthen them and prepare them for the next year ahead of them we pray to the Lord*

For those struggling with cancer, that they may find strength to make it through the treatments and be able to once again see a life without cancer we pray to the Lord*

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn

In the Lord Alone 22 (Red)

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, and serve the Lord
Thanks be to God

29.3.10

March 29, 2010

Opening Hymns:
Ancient of Days 10 (B/B)
Jesus, Name Above All Names 134 (B/B)

Scripture Reading:

Philippians 2:5-11

Message

In this scripture we are given a challenge… to be like Christ. I remember years back kids had been into wearing WWJD (what would Jesus do) bracelets. I suppose it wasn’t just kids, many people would wear them. There were other ones as well, on of my favorites was FROG (Fully Rely on God). This scripture is what had challenged us to consider what Jesus would do in each situation of our lives. Sometimes it may not seem like Jesus would have ever been in some of our situations. Technology and cultural norms were different during the time of His ministry. However, each time we have a question of morality, remembering to face it humbly and as a servant is important.

For example, if one were to have the same attitude as Christ they would respond calmly to injustice and seek a change in the problem rather than revenge. The goal is not self serving or self uplifting, but rather, living a life to uplift others and God. Jesus is our perfect example of how to live our lives. He is also with us here on our day to day journey guiding our footsteps. Through prayer, study of the scripture, and worship I pray that each of us will be able to become more and more like Christ. When we ask “What Would Jesus Do?” I hope we find the answer as God continues to lead us through each day.


Time of Prayer

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn

Mighty is Our God 158 (B/B)

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, and serve the Lord
Thanks be to God

March 29, 2010

Opening Hymns:
Fill My Cup 641 (Red Hymnal)
Open My Eyes That I May See 454 (Red Hymnal)

Scripture Reading:
Luke 22:14-71

Message "Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me."
In Luke Chapter 22, Luke is describing the final days of Jesus’ ministry. They eat of the bread from the last supper. It is when they learn that one of them will betray Jesus and that Peter will disown Jesus three times. This scripture ends with Christ being taken away and Peter denying that he knows Him.

One of the parts that I can relate to the most is Jesus praying for God to take His cup from Him. All of us have faced trials and temptations. Like Jesus, there may be times when we pray and wish that we won’t need to go through certain trials. It may be a paper we need to write for school (or even school itself), Doctors appointments, attending a funeral, or the pain of giving birth.

We can dread each of these… However, nothing we have to face can compare to Jesus’ burden. And, no matter the sin, we needn’t bear the shame and separation from God that Jesus bore on the cross. Remembering this it is important to face the trials that God would have us face as Jesus did. Rather than praying for the hard times not to come… like Jesus we can instead quietly pray "Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done."


Time of PrayerDear Lord, in whatever struggles we are facing, I ask that You will be with each of us and guide us through them. Lord, I know there are many challenges for us to face in our lives. I ask that if the challenges ahead of us are challenges that You would have us face… be with us and guide us through them. I pray that they will help us and others grow. In Jesus name I pray Amen.

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn

Here I am Lord 593 (Red Hymnal)

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, and serve the Lord
Thanks be to God

26.3.10

March 26, 2010

Opening Hymns:
Oh Sacred Head Now Wounded
In Cross of Christ I Glory

Scripture Reading:

Psalm 31:9-16:
9 Be merciful to me, O LORD, for I am in distress;
my eyes grow weak with sorrow,
my soul and my body with grief.
10 My life is consumed by anguish
and my years by groaning;
my strength fails because of my affliction, [a]
and my bones grow weak.
11 Because of all my enemies,
I am the utter contempt of my neighbors;
I am a dread to my friends—
those who see me on the street flee from me.
12 I am forgotten by them as though I were dead;
I have become like broken pottery.
13 For I hear the slander of many;
there is terror on every side;
they conspire against me
and plot to take my life.
14 But I trust in you, O LORD;
I say, "You are my God."
15 My times are in your hands;
deliver me from my enemies
and from those who pursue me.
16 Let your face shine on your servant;
save me in your unfailing love.


Message Turning night to day
I have never been in the kind of distress which the psalmist is feeling right now. I don’t know that I could describe any part of my life as “anguish.” However, as a nurse I have met many people who know exactly how the psalmist is feeling. Some are suffering with chronic illnesses or permanent injuries. Others are suffering with the loss or injury of a child. Often I’m able to see their frustrations in their eyes. When I meet people who are drowning in sorrow it is hard to know how to respond. “it will be alright,” and “I know how you must be feeling,” seems to belittle their suffering. No matter how much I think of it I can never find the perfect thing to say. The only thing I can do in times like that is hold their hand, listen, and pray for them.

The only thing that is able to heal the deepest suffering is our Lord and God. It is incredible to see the joy that can flow back into a persons life after they had suffered so much. Laughter and cheer can return, and all can be “saved in His unfailing love.” It is comforting to know that our Savior has gone through suffering as we have. It’s a blessing because, who better to lead us through the dark valleys than someone who has gone through them before. Not only did Jesus go through them, He also rose up above them.
Time of Prayer
Jesus, thank You for Your sacrifice. Thank you for teaching us how to live and love. Thank you for helping us through all the troubles in our lives. I am grateful that you stand by us when we are suffering. I ask that You will be with all who are suffering now. Whether they are plagued by illnesses, death, depression, or grief. Be with them and help them find comfort, peace and joy. In Jesus name I pray, amen.

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn

Beneath the Cross of Jesus

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, and serve the Lord
Thanks be to God

24.3.10

March 23, 2010

Opening Hymns:
My Lord, My Love was Crucified (http://nethymnal.org/htm/m/l/mlmlwcru.htm)
Blessed Redeemer (Christiansen) (http://nethymnal.org/htm/b/l/blessedr.htm)

Scripture Reading:
Luke 23:1-49

Message “Father, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing”
Imagine this scene. Jesus, the Son of God has gone through much throughout His ministry. He is now reaching the end of it. He has suffered through temptation and ridicule. Because of actions that people took He even has become angry at times, and rightly so. In John 2:15, 16, it describes Jesus' reaction to some of the people's corruption: “Making a whip out of cord, he drove them all out of the Temple, sheep and cattle as well, scattered the money changers’ coins, knocked their tables over and said to the dove sellers, ‘Take all this out of here and stop using my Father’s house as a market.”

In today's scripture Jesus is being killed without cause. He has done nothing to deserve death or punishment... especially not death on a cross, one of the most shameful deaths there was. He has every right to be angry. He has every right to condemn. He also has the power to do just that. He could do a similar thing like He had done in John. He could save Himself and tell them the wrong they are doing. He could yell, he could punish. Instead, He chooses to forgive. His choice is so precious and beautiful. I can imagine Him setting aside all anger, and instead looking on them with pity as He quietly prays for them.

Jesus came into the world to forgive. By His death and His words “Father, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing,” His mission is fulfilled. We are all of us forgiven, so long as we choose to accept that forgiveness. I know that I have sinned many times throughout my life... it is a blessing to be able to correct my actions... and it is even more
of a blessing to hear Jesus' forgiving response.

Time of Prayer

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn

Jesus Remember Me

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, and serve the Lord
Thanks be to God

22.3.10

March 22, 2010

Opening Hymns:
Come my Soul Thou Must Be Waking (http://nethymnal.org/htm/c/o/comemyso.htm)
Fill Me 56 (B/B)

Scripture Reading:

Isaiah 50:4-9a

Message
Wise Knowledge
What would change in your life if you woke up every day with the goal of listening, and the expectation to be taught? If learning is your focus in life think of all the new things that you discover. Both knowledge and wisdom are important gifts to have. To be knowledgeable in a subject is showing that you know your stuff… and wisdom is knowing how to use that knowledge. However, Isaiah does not contribute his knowledge or wisdom to himself. Rather he recognizes it as a gift from God. Isaiah 50:4 states “The sovereign Lord has given me an instructed tongue” As we wake up each morning let us remember our God, and the gifts that He gives us. When we grow in knowledge and wisdom let us remember who grants us these gifts.

Time of Prayer

*Respond: Lord hear our prayer

To all those who are filled with uneasiness and anxiety, that their troubles may cease and that they may be comforted we pray to the Lord*
For all who have suffered losses from floods, hurricanes, earthquakes and other natural disasters we pray to the Lord*
For all those suffering financially, that they may find a way out of their financial struggles through hard work and emotional support and comfort we pray to the Lord*

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn

I want to walk as a child of the light 115 (B/B)

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, and serve the Lord
Thanks be to God

20.3.10

March 20, 2010

Opening Hymns:
I Have Settled the Question (http://nethymnal.org/htm/i/h/ihaveset.htm)
Oh Jesus We Adore Thee (http://nethymnal.org/htm/o/j/ojwadore.htm)

Scripture Reading:

Philippians 3:12-14

Message
Future Focus
Sometimes our past can act as a weight that keeps us tied down. It can prevent us from going onward to our future. All of us can experience this in different ways. The athlete, when focusing on the early part of the game may lose focus and not be able to get that next goal. Writers, focusing on past failures or victories may have a hard time writing that next book. As a nurse, if I focus on mistakes that I have made in the past, then I won’t be able to cognitively focus on not making mistakes in the future. We must not allow ourselves to shift our focus from good to bad. Rather, we should continue looking ahead at our mission.

Out of all the external stimuli that each of us experience through sight, touch, smell exc., only 10-20% of it is mentally recognized. Because of that, a big part of what creates our world is what we decide to focus on. If we have a hard time hearing, then our touch, taste and sight gets more focus, and therefore seems enhanced. Likewise, if we tune out the good things in our life, negativity becomes “enhanced” and vise-versa. It is important, then, to keep our focus, as Paul talks about. Our focus is on our Lord, Jesus Christ. We need not focus on the past when we can see the beauty of our future.


Time of Prayer

*Respond: Lord hear our prayer

For those who have lost loved ones young and old, that they might heal from the sorry of that loss we pray to the Lord*
For people whose homes are in danger of being flooded, that the water might not rise as high as it was thought to, and that their homes might be spared we pray to the Lord*
To all who are suffer from conflicts, that the misunderstandings might be recognized, forgiveness is given, and the broken bonds are mended we pray to the Lord*

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn

I Choose Jesus (http://nethymnal.org/htm/i/c/ichoosej.htm)

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, and serve the Lord
Thanks be to God

19.3.10

March 19, 2010

Opening Hymns:
Majesty 154 (B/B)
In the Secret 125 (B/B)

Scripture Reading:

Philippians 3:4b-11

Message
The prophet Paul is someone to be listened to. Before he met Jesus, he was living the life. As he states he was “a Hebrew among Hebrews.” He gave up what many would have considered a wonderful life, in order to follow Christ.

There are many examples of people choosing to follow Christ over other ways of living. In April of 1999 Cassie Bernall was killed when she said “yes,” when asked if she was a Christian. She was not focused on the consequences that could arise from being a Christian… rather; she spoke truthfully and from her heart. St. Teresa is another example of someone living for Christ. She cared for the poor sick and injured of Calcutta for 45 years of her life. Though she had been criticized by many, she kept her focus. She cared and loved those who felt unloved.

Each person realized that there was something greater than them. They understood the beauty of Jesus’ heart. It is inspiring to think on these people. It inspires me because it reminds me in the moments when I become self focused, that there is something more precious to be focusing on. The most joy I have ever had has been when I was serving others, and with others worshiping God. Nothing can compare to the glory of God.

Time of Prayer

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn

It’s All about You 128 (B/B)

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, and serve the Lord
Thanks be to God

18.3.10

March 18th, 2010

Opening Hymns:
This Is the Day 210 (red)
It’s Time to Praise the Lord 125 (red)

Scripture Reading:
Isaiah 43:16-21

Message
Praise
The Lord has done amazing things for His chosen people. In this scripture we are reminded of the wonders that God has done. We are also reminded that we ought to be thankful to Him for His gifts. Too often in the Bible and in our own lives one tends to forget about the good that has been done. At times praising the Lord is forgotten. This happens far too many times throughout the Bible. The Israelites forgot about praising God while He was leading them through the desert. When Jesus healed 10 people, only one went back to thank Him. It is important that we do not forget to say “thanks.

My favorite part of this scripture is in verse 18 when the Lord states “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing…” For me it feels like the Lord is saying “you think that was cool, well wait and see what is coming next” I have learned more and more about the Lord throughout my life. I am still amazed by how he touches our lives. I can only hope that I will be able to do my part… that during the good times and bad I will still lift up my voice to praise Him. Each day I hope I continually await the new surprises He has for us.

Time of Prayer

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn

Shout to the Lord 198 (B/B)

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, and serve the Lord
Thanks be to God

17.3.10

March 17, 2010

Opening Hymns:
When I look into Your Holiness (206)
Thy Word 234 (Red)

Scripture Reading:
Psalm 126

Message
The person who wrote this psalm knew how terrible it was to be a captive in a different country. The joy that comes with freedom is an incredible thing. My life has not had as many hard times as the person who wrote this psalm. I’ve never been a captive in a different land… I’ve only been out of the country twice for less than 2 weeks both times. However, I too can rejoice in the gift of being set free.

For the psalmist, God released his entire nation from their captivity. For us Jesus was able to release all of us from our sins. Like the Psalmist we too can rejoice, our mouths can be “filled with laughter our tongues with songs of joy.”


Time of Prayer

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn

There is Joy in the Lord 186 (Red)

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, and serve the Lord
Thanks be to God

16.3.10

March 16, 2010

Opening Hymns:
Meekness and Majesty 157
My Faith Looks Up to Thee 162

Scripture Reading:

John 12:4-6

Message Plane Ride of Life
It has been a while since I’ve been on an airplane… but I’ve ridden on them enough times to remember the pre-flying lessons that the flight attendants give. “Exist are located here, here, and here. If there is an emergency, go to the exit closest to you… it may be behind you.” One of the most important things that I’ve taken from this talk is if oxygen is needed, put your own on before helping the child next to you. It is a wonderful reminder that, while we are suppose to help others around us, we must first ensure that we are taken care of. If, for instance, we helped the child get their mask on first we might not have enough oxygen and pass out… the child might not be able to get the oxygen on for us.

This also reflects one of the things that I learned from this scripture. Jesus does care about and love the poor. He also meets His own needs. Jesus, at this point knew He was going to die. The perfume was, as Jesus later mentions, for the day of His burial. This scripture also teaches one, that selfishly going against the will of God is not good either.

Judas is able to show us two extremes. First, by saying that the perfume should be sold and the money given to the poor, shows the extreme of giving so that ones own needs are not met. The other extreme is shown to us through the author, John, who states that Judas was taking the money and wanted it for himself. This shows selfishness that goes beyond meeting ones own needs and directly interferes with the will of God. As we live each day as ambassadors to God we must remember to take care of ourselves. At the same time we must be careful not to become selfish and stray from the will of God.

Time of Prayer
*Respond: Lord hear our prayer

For people out helping with natural disasters, be with them and give them strength to serve those around them. Be with those also that are facing disasters of their own we pray to the Lord*
For students as the school year comes closer and closer to an end that they might have the knowledge they need to do well in their next phase of life, we pray to the Lord*
For all that suffer the loss of a child, that they might be comforted by You, and by those that surround them we pray to the Lord*

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn

There is a Redeemer 211

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, and serve the Lord
Thanks be to God

15.3.10

March 15, 2010

Opening Hymns:
I Surrender All (http://nethymnal.org/htm/i/s/isurrend.htm)
O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing (http://nethymnal.org/htm/o/f/o/ofor1000.htm)

Scripture Reading:

John 11:45-55, 12:1-13

Message
The Pharisees feared for their own well being. They also talked about the well being of all the people. Jesus was a threat to them because they thought if people continued to follow him “the Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation.” In order to prevent punishment from the Romans, the Pharisees took it into their own hand to get rid of Jesus. But, though they seek to do harm to Jesus, God intends to use it for good. Through their plots Jesus dies. His death however, is not meaningless. He dies for all of us… for our sins.

It shocking to me, that a person, who heals the wounded and shows nothing but love to the world, can be sentenced to death. It’s amazing that the same person facing such an injustice would feel sorry for those who sinned against Him, rather than angry. The love that Jesus shows throughout the scriptures from Lent through Easter is heart warming. It is a reminder of how much God loves us… and while I have been told it many times, it is another reminder that I am forgiven. Such a beautiful thing has blossomed from the Pharisees evil plan.

Time of Prayer

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn

Let the Walls Fall Down 144

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, and serve the Lord
Thanks be to God

March 15, 2010

Opening Hymns:
For the Beauty of the Earth (http://nethymnal.org/htm/f/b/fbeautye.htm)
Calling the Prodigal (http://nethymnal.org/htm/c/a/callprod.htm)

Scripture Reading:

Luke 15:1-3 11b-32

Message
Forgive
This parable creates two characters, both of whom I can relate. I too have done things that I have regretted. Forgiveness, in those instances was so wonderful. It almost feels like having a fresh start. I have also felt like the other brother. When there are times that I have done everything that I could to be in the right, and I see someone who loused up being treated the same as I had been treated. In those moments it is easy to judge, like the faithful son had. It is so simple to say “that’s not fair” and to seek justice. However, would we be pulling for justice during the times when we sin? Would we stand up and say “that’s not fair; I should be severely punished for my actions.”

Instead of seeking justice one must forgive as they would wish to be forgiven. As we see in this story, if we are unable to forgive we will miss out on the joy that we could have shared in. The faithful son was missing out on the celebratory feast not because he wasn’t invited, but because he was bitter. We too can miss out if grudges are held and forgiveness is not given.


Time of Prayer

The Lord’s Prayer


Closing Hymn
God is Good 77 (B/B)

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, and serve the Lord
Thanks be to God

14.3.10

March 14, 2010

Opening Hymns:
Make Me a Chanel of Blessing (http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/m/a/makemeac.htm)
Ambassadors of God (http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/a/m/ambassog.htm)

Scripture Reading:
2 Corinthians 5:16-21

Message Ambassadors
One thing I never felt comfortable with as a Christian was trying to convert others to become Christians themselves. I love sharing the love of Christ with those who want to hear it, and those who will praise the Lord with me. However, throughout my life I have had many friends who were not Christians. At first I tried hard to spread the message of God, but it never caught on. While it could be that I was just “planting the seed” as many people might call it. Later on perhaps the messages I had been trying to convey would get through. Regardless through the years I had been trying to spread Christianity through good deeds rather than through speech.

This scripture reading is a hard one. It is a reminder that, while part of our purpose is to love and serve God, the other part of the purpose is to be ambassadors for Him. What kind of ambassadors should we be? One way to be an ambassador would be to seek to teach others, both Christian and non-Christians, with the message of love that Jesus has taught us. Other ways would be reaching out to others in need, and doing kind deeds for them through volunteering. Whether we are using scripture to teach others, or showing Christ through works we should remember to try to represent the one who sent us.


Time of Prayer

*Respond: Lord hear our prayer

To those who are suffering loss, that Your comforting hand might be in their life, and that their emptiness might be filled through You we pray to the Lord*
To those who are out in battles and wars, that You might protect them and guide them as they face challenging times we pray to the Lord*
For new mothers, that they might recover from the birthing process, and that You would keep the children and mothers safe and strong we pray to the Lord*

The Lord’s Prayer


Closing Hymn

O Mystery of Love Divine (http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/o/m/omystery.htm)

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, and serve the Lord
Thanks be to God

13.3.10

March 13, 2010

Opening Hymns:
Cry of My Heart 42 (B/B)
You Are My Hiding Place 244 (B/B)

Scripture Reading:
Psalm 32: 1-11

1 Blessed is he
whose transgressions are forgiven,
whose sins are covered.
2 Blessed is the man
whose sin the LORD does not count against him
and in whose spirit is no deceit.

3 When I kept silent,
my bones wasted away
through my groaning all day long.
4 For day and night
your hand was heavy upon me;
my strength was sapped
as in the heat of summer.
Selah

5 Then I acknowledged my sin to you
and did not cover up my iniquity.
I said, "I will confess
my transgressions to the LORD "—
and you forgave
the guilt of my sin.
Selah
6 Therefore let everyone who is godly pray to you
while you may be found;
surely when the mighty waters rise,
they will not reach him.

7 You are my hiding place;
you will protect me from trouble
and surround me with songs of deliverance.
Selah
8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;
I will counsel you and watch over you.

9 Do not be like the horse or the mule,
which have no understanding
but must be controlled by bit and bridle
or they will not come to you.
10 Many are the woes of the wicked,
but the LORD's unfailing love

surrounds the man who trusts in him.
11 Rejoice in the LORD and be glad, you righteous;
sing, all you who are upright in heart!

Message
Guilt can be a blessing. In the beginning of this psalm, the psalmist talks about his guilt from his sins. He talks about how he kept his sin silent. He then felt the Lord’s hand “heavy upon” him. His guilt caused him to call out to the Lord. In a sense the regret is what led him to repent.

This past week I had been studying for TNCC (Trauma Nursing Core Course). I had been afraid about the complexity of the course. Because I was so fearful I studied hard for a half a month. It is amazing what positive things can come from the negative.

Jesus, out of Love, died for our sins. While the death of our Savior, the Son of God is truly tragic. However, through His death, there is forgiveness for our sins. Because He died, He was able to rise. From His life we are able to learn about how serve God and others… and from His death we are able to live.


Time of Prayer

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn
What Wondrous Love Is This 292 Red Hymnal

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, serve the Lord
Thanks be to God

8.3.10

March 8, 2010

Opening Hymns:
The Battle Belongs to the Lord 205 (B/B)
We Bring the Sacrifice of Praise 234 (B/B)

Scripture Reading:

Joshua 5:9-12

Message
Manna for the Israelites was a temporary thing. The Lord provided nutrients for them while they needed it. When the need was gone they were no longer given manna, but instead ate from the “produce of Canaan.” The end of the manna signaled the fulfillment of God’s promise. He had brought them to Canaan as He had promised. With the Lord, the Israelites won the battle.

The Israelites for many years also gave sacrifices for their sins. Like the manna, these sacrifices are also no longer necessary now. Jesus has become the final sacrifice for our sins. During Lent is a wonderful time to reflect on the beautiful sacrifice that the Lord has given us. Not only did God send us His Son as an example for us; He also gave His Son as our sacrifice. Jesus is the bread of life, our spiritual manna, and our sacrificial Lamb. Praise the Lord that we need not be hungry in the deserts of our life.

Time of Prayer

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn

When I Survey the Wondrous Cross 235 (B/B)

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, and serve the Lord
Thanks be to God

6.3.10

March 6, 2010

Opening Hymns:
Draw Me Close to You 47 (B/B)
Step By Step

Scripture Reading:
Psalm 63: 1-8

Message Comfort in the Desert
This psalm is example of pure and true joy and yearning. He has tasted the Lord’s spiritual food, and is longing for more and more of it. In other words, he has learned about the Lord and wants to draw closer and closer to God. Like the Israelites, David was in a desert. He was in the desert of Judah hiding from his enemies. He also was facing the trials that come with nature, and as I read this psalm it seems to me like David was, or felt alone.

David did not follow the Israelites example. Instead of complaining to God about his pain and loneliness, he praises God. I said last week that the bible gives us examples of what to do and what not to do… this is one scripture that we should follow. But it is easier said than done. When I am met with a challenge, or when I become distraught… lifting my voice in praise is not the first thing that comes to my mind. Instead, I would generally want complain and gripe as the Israelites did… especially if it is a problem that is ‘not my fault.’ However, when we are faced with a difficulty, and we take the time to acknowledge God’s presence in our life, the obstacle begins to shrink. If we look back on what God has already brought us through in the past, the future no longer looks bleak. God is above every obstacle. David was fully aware of this and trusted in the Lord, even in the desert.

Time of Prayer
*Respond: Lord hear our prayer

Lord, as we pass through our deserts, help us to feel your presence guiding us. Let us focus on You, and Your steadfast love so that when challenges come our way we shout out with praises rather than complaints… we pray to the Lord*
To all those who are recovering from natural disasters, that Your hand might be on them to help them rebuild their lives we pray to the Lord*
For people who suffer from chronic illnesses, that they might find the strength to cope with the challenges that they face we pray to the Lord*

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn

Lord Who Throughout These 40 Days (http://nethymnal.org/htm/l/w/lwtt40da.htm)

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, and serve the Lord
Thanks be to God

5.3.10

March 5, 2010

Opening Hymns:
Humble thyself in the Sight of the Lord 166 (Red)
Change my Heart, O God 33 (B/B)

Scripture Reading:

1 Corinthians 10:1-13

Message
Learn from example
The beginning of this passage is rather harsh. Paul is talking about the punishment of the Israelites. Unlike previous scriptures this week, the Israelites had been punished entirely because of their sins.

There is a wonderful website called despair.com. It has demotivators instead of motivators. One of the posters it has is entitled “mistakes” and states “Sometimes the purpose in your life is only to serve as a warning to others.” In a way, that is one of the points Paul is getting at. He seems to be saying “look at their life! They were worshiping idols and turning away from God… Don’t be like that.” The scriptures were there for them, and are there for us now so that we can learn and grow from them. Because the bible is here we need not start right from the beginning and make all the same mistakes others had. Instead, we can go into life knowing right from wrong and also knowing the consequences of choosing the wrong actions.

While the bible does have a lot of “don’t do it this way” it also has some examples of how to live. Jesus is the best example. Living a life of love and correcting with a non-condemning manor. By following the do’s of the bible and avoiding the don’ts we can become who God intended us to be. His children, ever caring, ever loving, and ever trusting.


Time of Prayer
*Respond: Lord hear our prayer

For those whose homes will be threatened by flooding this spring, that they may be safe and dry we pray to the Lord*
For all the people involved in natural disasters, that they may heal emotionally and physically from the damage that was done we pray to the Lord*
For world leaders, that their decisions and choices be guided by love and kindness as we struggle through these hard economic times we pray to the Lord*

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn

Someone Else Living in You 199 (B/B)

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, serve the Lord
Thanks be to God

4.3.10

March 4, 2010

Opening Hymns:
Tis so Sweet to Trust in Jesus 225 (B/B)
You Are My All in All 243 (B/B)

Scripture Reading:

1 Corinthians 10:12-13

Message
Who To Blame
This scripture, like yesterdays, makes it hard for us to point the finger. It reminds me of children fighting, “Mom, he hit me! Well, she hit me first!” At this point the parent can explain to them that hitting is not right even if you were hit first. In Genesis Adam and Eve both tried to pin the blame for their actions on something other than themselves. However, “The snake made me do it,” doesn’t cut it. The Lord has given us free will… entire control over all our actions. It is because of this that no matter what others do to us, how we respond to it is entirely our choice.

Though this is a harsh lesson, because many times it feels better to put the blame on someone else, it ends with hope. “God is faithful: he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.” While sometimes it may not seem like that, having faith that the Lord will stay true to that promise will give you strength. Leaning on the Lord when temptations are overwhelming will make one’s will stronger.


Time of Prayer
*Respond: Lord hear our prayer

For families that are struggling with challenges in their lives, that you might keep them united we pray to the Lord*
To pastors as they travel to different churches, that you might bless the new flock they will serve, and also bless those that are seeking out new leadership we pray to the Lord*
For people going through rehabilitation, that you would help strengthen them and give them patience as they go through the long process we pray to the Lord*

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn

Blessed Assurance 24 (B/B)

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, serve the Lord
Thanks be to God

3.3.10

March 3, 2010

Opening Hymns:
Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven (http://nethymnal.org/htm/p/r/a/praisems.htm)
My Faith Looks Up to Thee (http://nethymnal.org/htm/m/y/myfluptt.htm)

Scripture Reading:

Luke 13:1-9

Message
Blame
At the beginning of this passage Jesus is telling the people that when bad things happen it is not God giving people what they deserve. He describes two different events. While He does not say that they are without sin, He does say that they were no more sinful than everyone else. Repentance, He states, will keep us from perishing. Though we all will eventually pass away, our life with God can go on. It is important that this everlasting relationship begins sooner than later. Life is unpredictable and can often be shorter than expected.

This scripture also reminds me of the book of Job. He followed the Lord with all his heart, and yet had all his possessions and most of his family taken away from him. This act was seen by his friend’s as God’s punishment. However, later in the book God reveals that all that happened to Job was not a punishment. We too might be looking at others or at our own life wondering if we or others are being disciplined for sins. But one of the main points Jesus is making is that we should not judge. We are not the jury and have no say on who is innocent and who is guilty. Frankly, we are all guilty. All of us can also be forgiven. When bad things happen to others instead of pointing and blaming we should lend a helping hand.

Time of Prayer

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn

O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go (http://nethymnal.org/htm/o/l/oltwnlmg.htm)

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, and serve the Lord
Thanks be to God

2.3.10

March 2, 2010

Opening Hymns:
As We Gather 16 (Red)
I will Delight 93 (Red)

Scripture Reading:

Luke 13:1-9

Message Bearing fruit
For today’s message I’m going to keep with the food for the body and food for the spirit theme. In this scripture the food is soil for the tree. I’m no expert on gardening; however, I do care for a number of plants and I must say that the soil is very important. The type of soil that you use makes a big difference for the plant or garden. Some people may struggle to keep their gardens thriving, while others need only plant seeds one year and every year after that beautiful garden will blossom. This is also true with people. Taking in the right amount and type of food makes a big difference in how one feels. Having too much or too little food can be physically draining.

This is also true spiritually. If we are spiritually empty, or filling our hearts with junk food it can be exhausting. When we are not taking in “good soil” how can we expect to “bear fruit?” So, if we are not feeling spiritually filled, how then can we turn to others and give them spiritual support? Our well of water and the banquet of food are our Lord and Savior. The first step to fertilizing our souls is to know God and establish that relationship. Both worshiping on one’s own, and worshiping in a group setting will help your relationship with God grow. When roots are deep then one is ready to support other growing seeds. Through each part of our relationship with God it is important that we surround ourselves with people who give us spiritual nourishment, and who we can spiritually nourish. A forest bears more fruit than a single tree.


Time of Prayer

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn

Create In Me a Clean Heart 39 (Red)

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, serve the Lord
Thanks be to God

1.3.10

March 1, 2010

Opening Hymns:
It’s All About You 128 (B/B)
His Eye is on the Sparrow (http://nethymnal.org/htm/h/i/hiseyeis.htm)

Scripture Reading:
Isaiah 55

Message Food for our Soul
There are three main parts to humans: the physical, emotional, and spiritual part. Sometimes different parts of ourselves are ignored. In this scripture, they are describing one of the things that can happen when our spiritual self is ignored. We may attempt to fill it by giving more to our physical self. However, bread only fills our bodily hunger. It does not touch our spiritual selves. Because of this we may eat, yet not feel full. On the other hand, one must consider what happens when we don’t eat for a while. Whether we are fasting or dieting, our hunger may diminish after a while. Some people no longer feel hungry when they are far into their diet or fast.

Spiritually, we may have been on a fast. Life could be busy or there might be other obstacles in the way. At the start of a fast your spiritual stomachs may have been growling. After some time that hunger pain can fade away. The yearning diminishes, though one is starving spiritually. God promises to fill our spiritual needs. It is bread for our spirit, something we cannot receive through any item in this world. Knowing and listening to God fills us up. It is important for us to recognize each part of ourselves, the physical, emotional, and spiritual part. In order to stay healthy each part must be fed.

Time of Prayer
*Respond: Lord hear our prayer

For those who are starving physically, emotionally, or spiritually. That they may be filled and their hunger, quenched we pray to the Lord*
For all the caregivers, that they may find rest and support from those around them so they have the energy to care for their loved ones we pray to the Lord*
For those throughout the world who are suffering from natural disasters, that help might never be far, and that each community comes together to build one another up… we pray to the Lord*

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn

Trees of the Field 103 (Red)


May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, and serve the Lord
Thanks be to God