February 8, 2011

Opening Hymns:
Surely the Presence of the Lord is in This Place 285 (Red)
Celebrate the Lord of Love 32 (B/B)

Scripture Reading:Isaiah 49 4-7

Message: Love One Another
This is a scripture where everyone is included equally…. the Jews as well as the Gentiles. God desires both to drawn to Him. He wants this so that His “salvation” will be brought to the ends of the earth. There are times in the bible, especially the Old Testament, where the bible is seemingly exclusive to one group of people. When the Hebrews are slaves to the Egyptians only the Hebrews are spared from the final plague as long as they acknowledge and follow God’s plan.

However, one of the main points Jesus tries to make is to respect one another and to welcome everyone. He taught this by example, and by word. He would talk with and have dinner with the lowest at the time, and He commanded us “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Mathew 22:39). In Mathew 7 He states “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”(verse 1-2). Why is it then that we find it so easy to push judgments onto others? Sometimes we judge because we are surrounded by others who judge. Sometimes we are hurt by one person, and let that be our judgment on everyone else in that “category.”

The scripture is challenging us to be like Jesus. To bring our love for ALL people as they are children of God as well. Let us take of our judgmental glasses and look at people for what and who they truly are. Our brothers and sisters.

Time of Prayer
Dear Lord. Let our judgments about other people cease. Help us on this day to see everyone as You see them. Let our minds and hearts be opened to Your will on this day. In Jesus name I pray. Amen

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn
This Is My Commandment 241 (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