Easter, New Life for Us All

April 5, 2015
Opening Hymns:
322 Up from the Grave He Arose http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh322.sht

Scripture Reading:
John 20:1-18
20:1 Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the tomb.

20:2 So she ran and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, "They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him."

20:3 Then Peter and the other disciple set out and went toward the tomb.

20:4 The two were running together, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first.

20:5 He bent down to look in and saw the linen wrappings lying there, but he did not go in.

20:6 Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb. He saw the linen wrappings lying there,

20:7 and the cloth that had been on Jesus' head, not lying with the linen wrappings but rolled up in a place by itself.

20:8 Then the other disciple, who reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed;

20:9 for as yet they did not understand the scripture, that he must rise from the dead.

20:10 Then the disciples returned to their homes.

20:11 But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb;

20:12 and she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had been lying, one at the head and the other at the feet.

20:13 They said to her, "Woman, why are you weeping?" She said to them, "They have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him."

20:14 When she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not know that it was Jesus.

20:15 Jesus said to her, "Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you looking for?" Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, "Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away."

20:16 Jesus said to her, "Mary!" She turned and said to him in Hebrew, "Rabbouni!" (which means Teacher).

20:17 Jesus said to her, "Do not hold on to me, because I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go to my brothers and say to them, 'I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'"

20:18 Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, "I have seen the Lord"; and she told them that he had said these things to her.

Message:
Today death has been conquered. Weeping has turned into shouts of joy. For though our Lord and Savior died for us, he has risen! Death had no hold on Him. We are freed from our sin, and we are saved from the death and punishment that was to befall us.

We celebrate Easter in the spring. Looking outside, and seeing the green start to poke through the dirt is so exciting. Though the weather seems to change slowly, it’s easy to see that spring is finally on its way. Life is coming back into the ground. Something in my spirit lifts when I smell the new smells, and see the new sights that spring brings.

However, sometimes the challenges of life, and the struggles that we face make it difficult to celebrate. Through our guilt from sin we might not understand how God can forgive us. We might not know how great God’s love is. It can be hard to let go of our winter, and accept the new life that can sprout in us.

Today as I read the scriptures and sing the hymns I try to let the winter in my heart melt. Accepting the forgiveness that comes from Jesus, and allowing the new life to grow through my sin and mistakes. There is a Savior. He brings us something more beautiful than spring. A new life for each and every one of us.      

Time of Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the changing of the seasons in our world, and in our lives. Let us accept the beautiful gift of love and forgiveness that You have given us through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen


The Lord’s Prayer


Closing Hymn
327 Crown Him with Many Crowns http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh327.sht

Christ is risen!

He is risen indeed! Alleluia!

Jesus' Sacrifice

April 3, 2015
Opening Hymns:
Where You There When They Crucified My Lord http://toneway.com/songs/were-you-there-when-they-crucified-my-lord

Scripture Reading:
John 18:1-19:42
18:1 After Jesus had spoken these words, he went out with his disciples across the Kidron valley to a place where there was a garden, which he and his disciples entered.

18:2 Now Judas, who betrayed him, also knew the place, because Jesus often met there with his disciples.

18:3 So Judas brought a detachment of soldiers together with police from the chief priests and the Pharisees, and they came there with lanterns and torches and weapons.

18:4 Then Jesus, knowing all that was to happen to him, came forward and asked them, "Whom are you looking for?"

18:5 They answered, "Jesus of Nazareth." Jesus replied, "I am he." Judas, who betrayed him, was standing with them.

18:6 When Jesus said to them, "I am he," they stepped back and fell to the ground.

18:7 Again he asked them, "Whom are you looking for?" And they said, "Jesus of Nazareth."

18:8 Jesus answered, "I told you that I am he. So if you are looking for me, let these men go."

18:9 This was to fulfill the word that he had spoken, "I did not lose a single one of those whom you gave me."

18:10 Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it, struck the high priest's slave, and cut off his right ear. The slave's name was Malchus.

18:11 Jesus said to Peter, "Put your sword back into its sheath. Am I not to drink the cup that the Father has given me?"

18:12 So the soldiers, their officer, and the Jewish police arrested Jesus and bound him.

18:13 First they took him to Annas, who was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest that year.

18:14 Caiaphas was the one who had advised the Jews that it was better to have one person die for the people.

18:15 Simon Peter and another disciple followed Jesus. Since that disciple was known to the high priest, he went with Jesus into the courtyard of the high priest,

18:16 but Peter was standing outside at the gate. So the other disciple, who was known to the high priest, went out, spoke to the woman who guarded the gate, and brought Peter in.

18:17 The woman said to Peter, "You are not also one of this man's disciples, are you?" He said, "I am not."

18:18 Now the slaves and the police had made a charcoal fire because it was cold, and they were standing around it and warming themselves. Peter also was standing with them and warming himself.

18:19 Then the high priest questioned Jesus about his disciples and about his teaching.

18:20 Jesus answered, "I have spoken openly to the world; I have always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where all the Jews come together. I have said nothing in secret.

18:21 Why do you ask me? Ask those who heard what I said to them; they know what I said."

18:22 When he had said this, one of the police standing nearby struck Jesus on the face, saying, "Is that how you answer the high priest?"

18:23 Jesus answered, "If I have spoken wrongly, testify to the wrong. But if I have spoken rightly, why do you strike me?"

18:24 Then Annas sent him bound to Caiaphas the high priest.

18:25 Now Simon Peter was standing and warming himself. They asked him, "You are not also one of his disciples, are you?" He denied it and said, "I am not."

18:26 One of the slaves of the high priest, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, asked, "Did I not see you in the garden with him?"

18:27 Again Peter denied it, and at that moment the cock crowed.

18:28 Then they took Jesus from Caiaphas to Pilate's headquarters. It was early in the morning. They themselves did not enter the headquarters, so as to avoid ritual defilement and to be able to eat the Passover.

18:29 So Pilate went out to them and said, "What accusation do you bring against this man?"

18:30 They answered, "If this man were not a criminal, we would not have handed him over to you."

18:31 Pilate said to them, "Take him yourselves and judge him according to your law." The Jews replied, "We are not permitted to put anyone to death."

18:32 (This was to fulfill what Jesus had said when he indicated the kind of death he was to die.)

18:33 Then Pilate entered the headquarters again, summoned Jesus, and asked him, "Are you the King of the Jews?"

18:34 Jesus answered, "Do you ask this on your own, or did others tell you about me?"

18:35 Pilate replied, "I am not a Jew, am I? Your own nation and the chief priests have handed you over to me. What have you done?"

18:36 Jesus answered, "My kingdom is not from this world. If my kingdom were from this world, my followers would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not from here."

18:37 Pilate asked him, "So you are a king?" Jesus answered, "You say that I am a king. For this I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice."

18:38 Pilate asked him, "What is truth?" After he had said this, he went out to the Jews again and told them, "I find no case against him.

18:39 But you have a custom that I release someone for you at the Passover. Do you want me to release for you the King of the Jews?"

18:40 They shouted in reply, "Not this man, but Barabbas!" Now Barabbas was a bandit.

19:1 Then Pilate took Jesus and had him flogged.

19:2 And the soldiers wove a crown of thorns and put it on his head, and they dressed him in a purple robe.

19:3 They kept coming up to him, saying, "Hail, King of the Jews!" and striking him on the face.

19:4 Pilate went out again and said to them, "Look, I am bringing him out to you to let you know that I find no case against him."

19:5 So Jesus came out, wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe. Pilate said to them, "Here is the man!"

19:6 When the chief priests and the police saw him, they shouted, "Crucify him! Crucify him!" Pilate said to them, "Take him yourselves and crucify him; I find no case against him."

19:7 The Jews answered him, "We have a law, and according to that law he ought to die because he has claimed to be the Son of God."

19:8 Now when Pilate heard this, he was more afraid than ever.

19:9 He entered his headquarters again and asked Jesus, "Where are you from?" But Jesus gave him no answer.

19:10 Pilate therefore said to him, "Do you refuse to speak to me? Do you not know that I have power to release you, and power to crucify you?"

19:11 Jesus answered him, "You would have no power over me unless it had been given you from above; therefore the one who handed me over to you is guilty of a greater sin."

19:12 From then on Pilate tried to release him, but the Jews cried out, "If you release this man, you are no friend of the emperor. Everyone who claims to be a king sets himself against the emperor."

19:13 When Pilate heard these words, he brought Jesus outside and sat on the judge's bench at a place called The Stone Pavement, or in Hebrew Gabbatha.

19:14 Now it was the day of Preparation for the Passover; and it was about noon. He said to the Jews, "Here is your King!"

19:15 They cried out, "Away with him! Away with him! Crucify him!" Pilate asked them, "Shall I crucify your King?" The chief priests answered, "We have no king but the emperor."

19:16 Then he handed him over to them to be crucified. So they took Jesus;

19:17 and carrying the cross by himself, he went out to what is called The Place of the Skull, which in Hebrew is called Golgotha.

19:18 There they crucified him, and with him two others, one on either side, with Jesus between them.

19:19 Pilate also had an inscription written and put on the cross. It read, "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews."

19:20 Many of the Jews read this inscription, because the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city; and it was written in Hebrew, in Latin, and in Greek.

19:21 Then the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate, "Do not write, 'The King of the Jews,' but, 'This man said, I am King of the Jews.'"

19:22 Pilate answered, "What I have written I have written."

19:23 When the soldiers had crucified Jesus, they took his clothes and divided them into four parts, one for each soldier. They also took his tunic; now the tunic was seamless, woven in one piece from the top. 19:24

So they said to one another, "Let us not tear it, but cast lots for it to see who will get it." This was to fulfill what the scripture says, "They divided my clothes among themselves, and for my clothing they cast lots."

19:25 And that is what the soldiers did. Meanwhile, standing near the cross of Jesus were his mother, and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.

19:26 When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing beside her, he said to his mother, "Woman, here is your son."

19:27 Then he said to the disciple, "Here is your mother." And from that hour the disciple took her into his own home.

19:28 After this, when Jesus knew that all was now finished, he said (in order to fulfill the scripture), "I am thirsty."

19:29 A jar full of sour wine was standing there. So they put a sponge full of the wine on a branch of hyssop and held it to his mouth.

19:30 When Jesus had received the wine, he said, "It is finished." Then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

19:31 Since it was the day of Preparation, the Jews did not want the bodies left on the cross during the sabbath, especially because that sabbath was a day of great solemnity. So they asked Pilate to have the legs of the crucified men broken and the bodies removed.

19:32 Then the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first and of the other who had been crucified with him.

19:33 But when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs.

19:34 Instead, one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and at once blood and water came out.

19:35 (He who saw this has testified so that you also may believe. His testimony is true, and he knows that he tells the truth.)

19:36 These things occurred so that the scripture might be fulfilled, "None of his bones shall be broken."

19:37 And again another passage of scripture says, "They will look on the one whom they have pierced."

19:38 After these things, Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus, though a secret one because of his fear of the Jews, asked Pilate to let him take away the body of Jesus. Pilate gave him permission; so he came and removed his body.

19:39 Nicodemus, who had at first come to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, weighing about a hundred pounds.

19:40 They took the body of Jesus and wrapped it with the spices in linen cloths, according to the burial custom of the Jews.

19:41 Now there was a garden in the place where he was crucified, and in the garden there was a new tomb in which no one had ever been laid.

19:42 And so, because it was the Jewish day of Preparation, and the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there.

Message:
The most powerful service that I’ve ever gone to always took place on Good Friday. At my old church they would go through the final words of Jesus. The pastors and lay leaders would each take one of the final words, and give a sermon on it. There was also special music, and we would all cry hearing some of the most moving songs like “Where You There When They Crucified My Lord.”

The service was much longer than any other church service I’ve gone to, and lasted 3 hours. People would come and go as they could since it was during the day on Good Friday. I remember staying for the whole thing, and how much my spirit was moved.

In today’s scripture we hear three of the final words of Jesus. We hear Jesus looking out for His mother, and ensuring there is someone to take care of her. We hear Jesus say “I am Thirsty” in order that the scripture is fulfilled, and we hear Him at last say “It is finished.”

Jesus’ sacrifice had been complete. He died for all of us that we might live. It is hard to ponder this without tearing up. It is hard to imagine this story, without being deeply moved. That Jesus, who was without sin, would willing die for our sake… it can be beyond comprehension.

Time of Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, You sent Your son to die for us on the cross. As we remember His sacrifice today, help us draw ever closer to You. Let us remember the love that You have shown us through Jesus’ ministry and death. Amen.


The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn
298 When I Survey the Wondrous Cross http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh298.sht

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.

Sharing God's Love

April 2, 2015

Opening Hymns:
144 This is My Father’s World http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh144.sht

Scripture Reading:
John 13:1-17, 31b-35
13:1 Now before the festival of the Passover, Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart from this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.

13:2 The devil had already put it into the heart of Judas son of Simon Iscariot to betray him. And during supper

13:3 Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going to God,

13:4 got up from the table, took off his outer robe, and tied a towel around himself.

13:5 Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel that was tied around him.

13:6 He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, "Lord, are you going to wash my feet?"

13:7 Jesus answered, "You do not know now what I am doing, but later you will understand."

13:8 Peter said to him, "You will never wash my feet." Jesus answered, "Unless I wash you, you have no share with me."

13:9 Simon Peter said to him, "Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!"

13:10 Jesus said to him, "One who has bathed does not need to wash, except for the feet, but is entirely clean. And you are clean, though not all of you."

13:11 For he knew who was to betray him; for this reason he said, "Not all of you are clean."

13:12 After he had washed their feet, had put on his robe, and had returned to the table, he said to them, "Do you know what I have done to you?

13:13 You call me Teacher and Lord--and you are right, for that is what I am.

13:14 So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet.

13:15 For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you.

13:16 Very truly, I tell you, servants are not greater than their master, nor are messengers greater than the one who sent them.

13:17 If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.

13:31b When he had gone out, Jesus said, "Now the Son of Man has been glorified, and God has been glorified in him.

13:32 If God has been glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself and will glorify him at once.

13:33 Little children, I am with you only a little longer. You will look for me; and as I said to the Jews so now I say to you, 'Where I am going, you cannot come.'

13:34 I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.

13:35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."

Message:
Jesus lived a humble life. He was born in a stable, in His victory march into Jerusalem He rode in on a donkey, and here we see Him washing His disciple’s feet. In this scripture He calls us to do the same for each other.

What does it mean to wash each other’s feet? Partly, we need to empty ourselves of our own pride. We need to be willing to care for those around us with love. We are to take on the role of a servant to others. Humbling ourselves like Jesus, we can begin to recognize the needs of others. We can set our own wants and desires aside to help those who are truly in need.   

Most of all we need to follow Jesus’ new commandment to us. We need to love one another. Through love, our pride and selfishness can melt away. Through love comes healing, forgiveness, and strength.  

Time of Prayer
Dear Lord, thank You for the love that You have shown us. Help us to share Your love with others, and be a servant to those in need. Amen.


The Lord’s Prayer


Closing Hymn
414 Thou Hidden Love of God http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh414.sht

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.

Face Challenges Together

April 1, 2015
Opening Hymns:
699 Come and Let Us Sweetly Join http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh699.sht

Scripture Reading:
Hebrews 12:1-3
12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us,

12:2 looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God.

12:3 Consider him who endured such hostility against himself from sinners, so that you may not grow weary or lose heart.

Message:
This scripture that was written for the Hebrews is just as wonderful for us to hear today. The example that Jesus left for us to follow is perfect. He is perfect. His love for us, and all the trials that He went through can help give us confidence and strength for the trials that we have to face. When we grow weary, and the challenges seem to be too big, thinking of God’s love and guidance can help us through.

We don’t have to go through our challenges alone either. God has given us the gift of family, neighbors, and friends. We can reach out to other children of God to help us through each challenge that we have to face. Likewise, we can help our friends face challenges of their own. Each of us reminding the other of God’s love for us.

Time of Prayer
Dear Lord, thank You for friends and family that You have surrounded us with. Let us be a helping hand to those who are in need, and give us strength to face each challenge ahead. Amen


The Lord’s Prayer


Closing Hymn
555 Forward Through the Ages  http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh555.sh

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.

How We View the World

March 31, 2015
Opening Hymns:
381 Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh381.sht

Scripture Reading:
John 12:1-11
12:1 Six days before the Passover Jesus came to Bethany, the home of Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead.

12:2 There they gave a dinner for him. Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those at the table with him.

12:3 Mary took a pound of costly perfume made of pure nard, anointed Jesus' feet, and wiped them with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.

12:4 But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (the one who was about to betray him), said,

12:5 "Why was this perfume not sold for three hundred denarii and the money given to the poor?"

12:6 (He said this not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief; he kept the common purse and used to steal what was put into it.)

12:7 Jesus said, "Leave her alone. She bought it so that she might keep it for the day of my burial.

12:8 You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me."

12:9 When the great crowd of the Jews learned that he was there, they came not only because of Jesus but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead.

12:10 So the chief priests planned to put Lazarus to death as well,

12:11 since it was on account of him that many of the Jews were deserting and were believing in Jesus.

Message:
Have you ever tried figuring out riddles? Sometimes it can be so challenging to picture the correct answer in your head. Some riddles are challenging because of when we imagine about the riddle that was never said, and isn’t true. Our mind likes to fill in the blanks of a story that is not completely told. When we focus on our own view it can make the riddle impossible, we need to try to see it a different way.

In this scripture we see people who are focusing on their own view, and unable to see the world any different. Judas is frustrated because money is being wasted. Was it because he was the treasurer and was stealing the money that they had? Was it because he was feeling guilty about what he was going to do, and wanted to point out the faults of others? Regardless, he couldn’t understand why such an expensive perfume was being used on Jesus, and why Jesus was allowing it when it could feed many hungry mouths.

We also see the high Priests plotting to kill Jesus and Lazarus… It’s been a while since I read this scripture… I don’t remember the Priests wanting to kill Lazarus, and in a way it’s almost comical. They have WAY missed the book. They are so focused on their mission to discredit Jesus, and to keep people from believing in Him that they miss their chance to believe! How could anyone think to themselves: “okay, so He raised this man from the dead, so we’ll have to kill him too.”

As we enter into Holy week, maybe we too need to see the world differently. Could we be focusing on ourselves so much that we miss the chance to help others in need. Have we decided what priorities should be for us, and missed what the greatest priorities should be? This week let us take a look at our own lives, let us remember Jesus’ love and sacrifice, and let us share that love with others.

Time of Prayer
Dear Lord, let our vision of the world be matched with Your vision. Let our hearts reflect that love that You have given us. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.


The Lord’s Prayer


Closing Hymn
671 Lord Dismiss Us with Thy Blessing http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh671.sht

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.

God's Story

March 29, 2015
Opening Hymns:
348 Softly and Tenderly Jesus is Calling http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh348.sht

Scripture Reading:
Mark 11:1-11
11:1 When they were approaching Jerusalem, at Bethphage and Bethany, near the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples

11:2 and said to them, "Go into the village ahead of you, and immediately as you enter it, you will find tied there a colt that has never been ridden; untie it and bring it.

11:3 If anyone says to you, 'Why are you doing this?' just say this, 'The Lord needs it and will send it back here immediately.'"

11:4 They went away and found a colt tied near a door, outside in the street. As they were untying it,

11:5 some of the bystanders said to them, "What are you doing, untying the colt?"

11:6 They told them what Jesus had said; and they allowed them to take it.

11:7 Then they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks on it; and he sat on it.

11:8 Many people spread their cloaks on the road, and others spread leafy branches that they had cut in the fields.

11:9 Then those who went ahead and those who followed were shouting, "Hosanna! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!

11:10 Blessed is the coming kingdom of our ancestor David! Hosanna in the highest heaven!"

11:11 Then he entered Jerusalem and went into the temple; and when he had looked around at everything, as it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the twelve.

John 12:12-16 12:12 The next day the great crowd that had come to the festival heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem.

12:13 So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, shouting, "Hosanna! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord-- the King of Israel!"

12:14 Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it; as it is written:

12:15 "Do not be afraid, daughter of Zion. Look, your king is coming, sitting on a donkey's colt!"

12:16 His disciples did not understand these things at first; but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that these things had been written of him and had been done to him.

Message:
I don’t often know what to do or say about Palm Sunday. I never seem to be able to celebrate as fervently as the celebration calls for. We know what is to come. It almost seems like we need to pretend not to know. It never feels right. Totally not the way I would have written the story. How would I have written the story? How would the story have gone if it was up to us?

In King Herod’s version of the story, he would have had Jesus perform miraculous works, not for the glory of God, but for his own entertainment. Some of the Jewish people of His day would have Him come as a warrior of God, fighting for God’s chosen people. And some of the religious leaders seem to get the story they want, until three days later…

Yet the scripture from the Old Testament already had Jesus’ triumphant march written. He would come into Israel humbly, riding on a donkey. His triumphant march into Jerusalem would not be the end… like I sometimes wish it was. Jesus would go on to die for us on the cross. The story isn’t even over then though. Jesus will conquer death and our sin through His sacrifice. He will again rise, and show us God’s glory. It is the greatest story of all! Best to leave the story in God’s hands.   

Time of Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, You are the greatest story writer of all. Let us always to remember You and seek to do Your will. Walk with us this day, in each of our own lives. Let our stories reflect Your love to the world. Amen.


The Lord’s Prayer


Closing Hymn
569 We’ve a Story to Tell to the Nations http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh569.sht

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.

He Makes All Things New

March 29, 2015
Opening Hymns:
341 I Sought the Lord http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh341.sht

Scripture Reading:
Hebrews 10:4-10
10:4 For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.

10:5 Consequently, when Christ came into the world, he said, "Sacrifices and offerings you have not desired, but a body you have prepared for me;

10:6 in burnt offerings and sin offerings you have taken no pleasure.

10:7 Then I said, 'See, God, I have come to do your will, O God' (in the scroll of the book it is written of me)."

10:8 When he said above, "You have neither desired nor taken pleasure in sacrifices and offerings and burnt offerings and sin offerings" (these are offered according to the law),

10:9 then he added, "See, I have come to do your will." He abolishes the first in order to establish the second.

10:10 And it is by God's will that we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

Message:
I remember when I was a little girl, and realized for the first time that the Ten Commandments are not the only laws that the Israelites had to follow. Reading through Leviticus you can see so many laws that I break all the time. One being “you must not wear a garment made of two different kinds of fabric” (Leviticus 19:19).

Many in the Christian faith have forgotten these laws. We don’t think about eating things that are kosher… and some of the laws with your livestock and neighbor’s livestock don’t really apply. When I found out that there were laws I was breaking I was very upset. However, when I grew up more and learned more about the New Testament, I discovered that Jesus changed all that.

This scripture shows us once again that Jesus has made all things new. The old covenant is gone, and God has established with us a covenant through Jesus. We no longer need to sacrifice animals for cleansing from our sins. Jesus’ love and sacrifice has paid the price for us.

Time of Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your love and forgiveness through Jesus Christ. May we draw ever closer to You throughout all our days. May we seek you out, and always yearn to do Your will. Amen.


The Lord’s Prayer


Closing Hymn
103 Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh103.sht

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.

Imagination

March 28, 2015
Opening Hymns:
400 Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh400.sht

Scripture Reading:
John 12:12-16
12:12 The next day the great crowd that had come to the festival heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem.

12:13 So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, shouting, "Hosanna! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord-- the King of Israel!"

12:14 Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it; as it is written:

12:15 "Do not be afraid, daughter of Zion. Look, your king is coming, sitting on a donkey's colt!"

12:16 His disciples did not understand these things at first; but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that these things had been written of him and had been done to him.

Message:
Sometimes my imaginations fails to truly depict what’s going on in stories. I love reading fantasy books, and find myself journeying to small towns, farms, and villages on an adventure in my head. But I often find the journey is intended to be much bigger than I make it. Books will speak of struggles that the characters are going through, and the days it takes to get from one town to the next. Prior to the journey it seems like the trek would be shorter… it’s hard to imagine walking or riding horses from place to place when cars and buses take us easily from one city to the next.

Today’s scripture is hard for me to imagine as well. What did Jerusalem look like then? My imagination only brings up small numbers gathered on the street waving palm branches, no bigger than the size of my church congregation. Was it instead as big as parades that I’ve seen where people line the streets 4 or 5 rows deep? I’m sure that news head spread of Jesus’ miraculous works, and many would want to see him. Were people watching from windows, or rooftops, just to get a glimpse of Jesus?

Palm Sunday is a beautiful celebration that I would have loved to see. People shouting praises to our Lord. People honoring Jesus, and waving palms in the air, and laying palms on the ground where the donkey would ride. In this moment the scriptures had been fulfilled. Another sign that Jesus was the Son of God… our Savior.

I don’t think I could bear to be there for what would be coming in the days ahead. I wonder where the people went. Were those who had praised him afraid like the disciples? Had some of them become part of the crowd that would shout “Crucify Him”? Again, my imagination is no help. The crowd that gathered to welcome Him… no matter how large… would vanish. How? Yet, the thing that is hardest to comprehend, is that Jesus went through his suffering for all of us. Through His death we are forgiven.

Time of Prayer
Dear Lord, You are so miraculous that even our greatest imaginations cannot come close to showing us Your glory. Thank You for the gift of love and forgiveness that You have given to us all. Amen


The Lord’s Prayer


Closing Hymn
714 I Know Whom I have Believed http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh714.sht

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.

Palm Sunday

March 26, 2015
Opening Hymns:
278 Hosanna Loud Hosanna http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh278.sht

Scripture Reading:
Mark 11:1-11
11:1 When they were approaching Jerusalem, at Bethphage and Bethany, near the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples

11:2 and said to them, "Go into the village ahead of you, and immediately as you enter it, you will find tied there a colt that has never been ridden; untie it and bring it.

11:3 If anyone says to you, 'Why are you doing this?' just say this, 'The Lord needs it and will send it back here immediately.'"

11:4 They went away and found a colt tied near a door, outside in the street. As they were untying it,

11:5 some of the bystanders said to them, "What are you doing, untying the colt?"

11:6 They told them what Jesus had said; and they allowed them to take it.

11:7 Then they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks on it; and he sat on it.

11:8 Many people spread their cloaks on the road, and others spread leafy branches that they had cut in the fields.

11:9 Then those who went ahead and those who followed were shouting, "Hosanna! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!

11:10 Blessed is the coming kingdom of our ancestor David! Hosanna in the highest heaven!"

11:11 Then he entered Jerusalem and went into the temple; and when he had looked around at everything, as it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the twelve.

Message:
Palm Sunday seems so out of place to me… During lent our focus is on Jesus’ love and sacrifice. During lent people fast, and try to focus their hearts on God. Palm Sunday feels like a celebration that’s come too soon. It makes me cringe to think of the people turning against Him after they gave Him such a warm welcome. How could they do that?

But perhaps they’re not the only ones. There are times in our lives when we fervently seek out God’s will. There are times when we praise Him… But, I know for myself that I have times when get upset at God. I question why things happen the way they do in the world. I’ve sinned, and turned away from Him as well.

Even though we may struggle through the trials and challenges of this world, the Lord will be with us. We have all sinned, but God offers forgiveness. He forgave Peter who denied Him, He forgives the crowd that turned against Him… and He forgives us now, though we too have fallen short.   

Time of Prayer
Dear Lord, thank You for sending Jesus Christ to die for us for our sins. Forgive us when we forget to walk in Your ways. Guide us and lead us all of our days. Amen


The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn
355 Depth of Mercy http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh355.sht

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.

The Cross

March 24, 2015
Opening Hymns:
Jesus! the Name High Over All http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh193.sht


Scripture Reading:
Philippians 2:5-11
2:5 Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus,

2:6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited,

2:7 but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form,

2:8 he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death-- even death on a cross.

2:9 Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name,

2:10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,

2:11 and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Message:
When you think of a cross, what does it mean to you? What feelings stir up inside of you? For me I can’t think about a cross without thinking about Jesus, our Savior, who died for us. The cross has turned into a symbol of Jesus conquering death for us all! But it didn’t always symbolize that.

This scripture hints at how shameful it was to die on a cross. Not only was Jesus obedient to the point of death… He was obedient to “even death on a cross.” I can’t imagine how painful that kind of a death would be. With everyone around Him questioning who He is, and mocking Him… how hard would it have been not to save Himself. Every moment He could have turned back, but He never did. Instead, He saved us all.

Can you think of any other symbol that has changed as much as the cross? It went from representing death, despair, and shame; and has become a representation of life, salvation, and hope. Through Jesus’ love and sacrifice we can be changed too. We, who were once sinners can become children of God.

Time of Prayer
Dear Lord, thank You for the love that You have given us. Let us always remember Your sacrifice, and let our lives be transformed, that we may spread Your love to those around us. Amen


The Lord’s Prayer


Closing Hymn
362 Nothing But the Blood of Jesus http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh362.sht

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.

Confidence

March 22, 2015

Opening Hymns:
717 The Battle Hymn of the Republic http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh717.sht

Scripture Reading:
Isaiah 50:4-9a
50:4 The Lord GOD has given me the tongue of a teacher, that I may know how to sustain the weary with a word. Morning by morning he wakens-- wakens my ear to listen as those who are taught.

50:5 The Lord GOD has opened my ear, and I was not rebellious, I did not turn backward.

50:6 I gave my back to those who struck me, and my cheeks to those who pulled out the beard; I did not hide my face from insult and spitting.

50:7 The Lord GOD helps me; therefore I have not been disgraced; therefore I have set my face like flint, and I know that I shall not be put to shame;

50:8 he who vindicates me is near. Who will contend with me? Let us stand up together. Who are my adversaries? Let them confront me.

50:9a It is the Lord GOD who helps me; who will declare me guilty?

Message:
This scripture shows one with amazing faith. Isaiah is willing to face ridicule and taunting. He is willing to be hit, yelled at, and spit on... without losing his faith. He never stops following the Lord, just because others are scoffing. This scripture reminds me a lot of the story of Job. Job lost everything even though he was an upright man following the ways of the Lord. He didn’t even curse God when he lost his land, his animals, and all his children instead he said “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return there; the LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord” (Job 1:21).

I’ve listened to many podcasts, read books, and studied different ways of self-improvement. Yet no confidence builder I’ve seen helped me have the confidence proclaimed in today’s scripture. How do they do it? How could Job go through everything he went through and still praise the Lord? Would I be able to do the same?

I am grateful that Job’s life is not my own. Hopefully none of us have to experience the kind of loss that he had to go through. Yet, when I focus on today’s scripture I’m reminded that if we follow God’s way we can prevail. He will be with us through every trial.  This scripture is the ultimate confidence builder. It reminds us that through everything we do we’re not alone. God is with us each step of the way. Though we may face suffering in this world, God will prevail in the end!

Time of Prayer
Dear Lord, guide us down Your path. May we learn to follow You with all our hearts in the good times and the bad. Amen

The Lord’s Prayer


Closing Hymn
O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go  http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh480.sht

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.

Seeking Forgiveness

March 21, 2015

Opening Hymns:
384 Love Divine, All Loves Excelling http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh384.sht

Scripture Reading:
Psalm 51:1-12
51:1 Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions.

51:2 Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.

51:3 For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me.

51:4 Against you, you alone, have I sinned, and done what is evil in your sight, so that you are justified in your sentence and blameless when you pass judgment.

51:5 Indeed, I was born guilty, a sinner when my mother conceived me.

51:6 You desire truth in the inward being; therefore teach me wisdom in my secret heart.

51:7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

51:8 Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones that you have crushed rejoice.

51:9 Hide your face from my sins, and blot out all my iniquities.

51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me.

51:11 Do not cast me away from your presence, and do not take your holy spirit from me.

51:12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and sustain in me a willing spirit.

Message:
When you make a mistake, it can sometimes feel like the worst thing in the world. I’ve often wanted a time machine to go back and fix the mistakes that I’ve made. Mistakes can make us feel so devastated. Sometimes it’s hard to forgive ourselves, much less ask for forgiveness from God.

Today’s psalm starts out sounding like someone who has just made a huge mistake. The psalmist sounds like they are full of guilt. They know they’ve done wrong, and any punishment would be just for them. In my life I can sometimes focus on those moments of grief without moving on to the end of the Psalm… I focus on my wrong doing, and my guilt. It can be so hard to let that go.

However, there is good news. The psalm goes on, and we hear the psalmist ask for forgiveness. They ask to be cleaned, and they also ask for a “willing spirit.” That is the next step each of us needs to take. We need to forgive ourselves enough, and humbly ask for God’s forgiveness. After that we should also seek a “willing spirit”… a spirit that will seek to avoid the same mistake again. Jesus will always offer us forgiveness. Through prayers we can also learn from our mistakes and go ahead in our lives stronger than when we stumbled.

Time of Prayer
Dear Lord, thank You for giving us Your forgiveness. Guide us through our lives, and help us when we struggle with sin. Comfort us, lead us to Your arms, and let us find strength in You. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.


The Lord’s Prayer


Closing Hymn
372 How Can We Sinners Know http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh372.sht

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.

Jesus' Love

March 20, 2015
Opening Hymns:
131 We Gather Together http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh131.sht

Scripture Reading:
John 12:20-33`
12:20 Now among those who went up to worship at the festival were some Greeks.

12:21 They came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, and said to him, "Sir, we wish to see Jesus."

12:22 Philip went and told Andrew; then Andrew and Philip went and told Jesus.

12:23 Jesus answered them, "The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified.

12:24 Very truly, I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.

12:25 Those who love their life lose it, and those who hate their life in this world will keep it for eternal life.

12:26 Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there will my servant be also. Whoever serves me, the Father will honor.

12:27 "Now my soul is troubled. And what should I say--' Father, save me from this hour'? No, it is for this reason that I have come to this hour.

12:28 Father, glorify your name." Then a voice came from heaven, "I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again."

12:29 The crowd standing there heard it and said that it was thunder. Others said, "An angel has spoken to him."

12:30 Jesus answered, "This voice has come for your sake, not for mine.

12:31 Now is the judgment of this world; now the ruler of this world will be driven out.

12:32 And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself."

12:33 He said this to indicate the kind of death he was to die.

Message:
Jesus never runs from His purpose. He always seems to remember all the people that He would save. Though sinners, He loves us. Though sinners He died for us. He came to us not only to teach and show the way of the Lord, but also to save us all. Whoever believes and follows Jesus will not perish, but will have eternal life.

It is hard to imagine a human who is perfect. Someone who does not give into a single temptation. He had freewill, and the same temptations we face. Instead of falling into selfish desires, He sacrificed everything for us. With a love so pure and beautiful it is hard to comprehend, He died on the cross for us.

We have been given the greatest gift of all. Forgiveness, life, and love. All through Jesus our savior. The question now is: how is that knowledge going to change how we live our lives? Can we let go of selfish desires and live as Jesus lived? Can we show love to others as Jesus has shown love to us?

Time of Prayer
Dear Lord, thank You for showing us how to walk with You. Thank You for Your sacrifice, and the love that You have shown all people. Let us draw close to You, and show others the love that You have shown us. Amen


The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn
380 There’s Within My Heart a Melody http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh380.sht

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.

Answered Prayers

March 20, 2015
Opening Hymns:
133 Leaning on the Everlasting Arms http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh133.sht

Scripture Reading:
Hebrews 5:5-10
5:5 So also Christ did not glorify himself in becoming a high priest, but was appointed by the one who said to him, "You are my Son, today I have begotten you";

5:6 as he says also in another place, "You are a priest forever, according to the order of Melchizedek."

5:7 In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to the one who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.

5:8 Although he was a Son, he learned obedience through what he suffered;

5:9 and having been made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him,

5:10 having been designated by God a high priest according to the order of Melchizedek

Message:
Sometimes it can feel like our prayers go unanswered. Through tragedies and loss it can seem like God’s presence isn’t anywhere to be found. I wonder if the followers of Jesus felt like that as our Savior was being crucified. They didn’t yet understand why He had to die. Many were probably shocked that it was even happening. After all, Jesus had healed so many people, and even raised Lazarus from the dead. Surly He would be able to save Himself!

When we are grief stricken it can be hard to feel God’s love and presence. I have a friend whose brother died at a young age in a car accident. She became so upset at God, and now no longer believes in Him. She can’t understand why an all-powerful God would let children die. How could God let that happen?

When I’m at my deepest low, God’s presence becomes stronger. Through tragedies I feel God sending his comfort and love to those who hurt or morn. Sometimes our prayers are not answered in the way that we want them to be. Though we are not shielded from every kind of loss, God is by our side every step of the way. None of us will go through this life without pain or sorrow. It is up to us to be there for one another. Offering comfort, love and support.

The followers of Jesus would learn of Christ’s resurrection. They would later understand that Christ died to save us all. I wonder if we will each be shown the answered prayers that we were unable to see… Like the “footprints” poem we might realize that God draws closest to us during the hardest parts of our life.

The Footprints Prayer

One night I had a dream... I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord, and Across the sky flashed scenes from my life. For each scene I noticed two sets of footprints in the sand; One belonged to me, and the other to the Lord. When the last scene of my life flashed before us, I looked back at the footprints in the sand. I noticed that many times along the path of my life, There was only one set of footprints. I also noticed that it happened at the very lowest and saddest times in my life This really bothered me, and I questioned the Lord about it. "Lord, you said that once I decided to follow you, You would walk with me all the way; But I have noticed that during the most troublesome times in my life, There is only one set of footprints. I don't understand why in times when I needed you the most, you should leave me. The Lord replied, "My precious, precious child. I love you, and I would never, never leave you during your times of trial and suffering. When you saw only one set of footprints, It was then that I carried you.

Time of Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, draw us close to You during our times of need. Help us through each trial in life, and let us be there for others who are experiencing pain and loss. Let us offer comfort and love. Amen


The Lord’s Prayer


Closing Hymn
528 Nearer My Got to Thee http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh528.sht

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.

Trust

March 19, 2015
Opening Hymns:
462 Tis so Sweet to Trust in Jesus http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh462.sht

Scripture Reading:
Psalm 51:1-12
51:1 Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions.

51:2 Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.

51:3 For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me.

51:4 Against you, you alone, have I sinned, and done what is evil in your sight, so that you are justified in your sentence and blameless when you pass judgment.

51:5 Indeed, I was born guilty, a sinner when my mother conceived me.

51:6 You desire truth in the inward being; therefore teach me wisdom in my secret heart.

51:7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

51:8 Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones that you have crushed rejoice.

51:9 Hide your face from my sins, and blot out all my iniquities.

51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me.

51:11 Do not cast me away from your presence, and do not take your holy spirit from me.

51:12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and sustain in me a willing spirit.

Message:
The future is an unknown and scary place. Sometimes our past, filled with all our mistakes and trials, isn’t any place we’d want to visit either. As I child I was both excited for the future, and terrified. There was so much I was going to be able to do. I was going to be able to help so many people! Even the thought of having my own job, family, and home was beyond my comprehension. Though excited I let fear and doubt have more power than the hope and joy.

In high school I decided to lay down some laws for my future self. I knew that I would grow and change over time, and I didn’t trust that “grown up Dawn” would stay on the straight and narrow path. I made a promise to God that I wouldn’t drink alcohol. I had seen alcohol make a fool of too many people too often, and I didn’t trust that I would be responsible enough as an adult to avoid falling into that trap. I also made a promise ensuring that my mother would approve of my boyfriend before I would ever get married. I was not confident in my own ability to choose someone who I would want to spend the rest of my life with.

As I look back on those promises now, I wish that I had put more trust in myself and God. Jesus even warns us about making promises:

“You have also heard that our ancestors were told, ‘You must not break your vows; you must carry out the vows you make to the LORD.’ But I say, do not make any vows! Do not say, ‘By heaven!’ because heaven is God’s throne. And do not say, ‘By the earth!’ because the earth is his footstool. And do not say, ‘By Jerusalem!’ for Jerusalem is the city of the great King. Do not even say, ‘By my head!’ for you can’t turn one hair white or black. Just say a simple, ‘Yes, I will,’ or ‘No, I won’t.’ Anything beyond this is from the evil one.” – Matthew 5:33-37

  As I read this Psalm I can tell that the psalmist has great faith. He pleads for forgiveness for the sins of his past, and asks God to cleanse him from those sins, and to sustain him with a willing spirit. The psalmist leaves this scripture for us so we too can pray to God for forgiveness and the willingness to follow Him. In praying we can surly trust God to answer our prayers! We can also trust and hope that we will continue to seek God through all the trials that await us.

Time of Prayer
Dear heavenly Father, forgive us when we sin. Cleanse our hearts, and make us whiter than snow. Lead us to follow You all of our days. Let our hearts and minds never stray. Amen


The Lord’s Prayer


Closing Hymn
407 Close to Thee http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh407.sht

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.

Purpose

March 17, 2015
Opening Hymns:
454 Open My Eyes, That I May See http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh454.sht

Scripture Reading:
John 12:20-33
12:20 Now among those who went up to worship at the festival were some Greeks.

12:21 They came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, and said to him, "Sir, we wish to see Jesus."

12:22 Philip went and told Andrew; then Andrew and Philip went and told Jesus.

12:23 Jesus answered them, "The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified.

12:24 Very truly, I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.

12:25 Those who love their life lose it, and those who hate their life in this world will keep it for eternal life.

12:26 Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there will my servant be also. Whoever serves me, the Father will honor.

12:27 "Now my soul is troubled. And what should I say--' Father, save me from this hour'? No, it is for this reason that I have come to this hour.

12:28 Father, glorify your name." Then a voice came from heaven, "I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again."

12:29 The crowd standing there heard it and said that it was thunder. Others said, "An angel has spoken to him."

12:30 Jesus answered, "This voice has come for your sake, not for mine.

12:31 Now is the judgment of this world; now the ruler of this world will be driven out.

12:32 And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself."

12:33 He said this to indicate the kind of death he was to die.

Message:
The question that has been on my mind for the past 15 years is “what is my purpose in life?” As we go through life it becomes increasingly apparent that we are mortal. We will not be around on this world forever. So what are we meant to do with the time that we have? How are we to make a difference?

In today’s scripture Jesus compares Himself to wheat. When wheat dies its seeds bring much more new life. His death and sacrifice has brought life to all of us. Though Christ could have avoided His death on the cross, He chose to die for us, because of His great love.

Though we are mortal, through belief in Jesus we will have eternal life with our Lord. Knowing this can change how we live our life now. We can teach others of this wonderful love. We can share the gifts that God has given us with others in need. We can leave our own mark on this world. Even the small acts of kindness can make a difference.

Time of Prayer
Dear Lord, let us always follow You and show Your love to others. May we serve You and others with all our hearts for all our days. Amen.


The Lord’s Prayer


Closing Hymn
472 Near to the Heart of God http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh472.sht

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.

Laws Written on Our Hearts

March 16, 2015
Opening Hymns:
341 I Sought the Lord http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh341.sht

Scripture Reading:
Jeremiah 31:31-34
31:31 The days are surely coming, says the LORD, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah.

31:32 It will not be like the covenant that I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt--a covenant that they broke, though I was their husband, says the LORD.

31:33 But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the LORD: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

31:34 No longer shall they teach one another, or say to each other, "Know the LORD," for they shall all know me, from the least of them to the greatest, says the LORD; for I will forgive their iniquity, and remember their sin no more.

Message:
Have you ever felt guilty for doing something you shouldn’t have done? Did you tell a lie to someone you love, steal a cooking before you were supposed to, or cheat on a homework assignment? Whenever I’ve thought of, or done something wrong, I always feel guilty. Perhaps the guilt comes from disobeying one of the laws that God has written on my heart.

Jeremiah is creating a powerful image with the words in today’s scripture reading. A new covenant, but this time instead of carving the laws onto stone they will be carved into our hearts! Instead of following laws because we are told to we begin to follow the laws because we desire to. The rules that God has laid forth become a part of who we want to be.

How much more beautiful is our relationship with God when we follow His commands because we want to… instead of because we have to. How much closer can we draw to God when we see the reasoning behind “thou shalt” and “thou shalt not”?  It amazes me that Jeremiah wrote this scripture over 500 years before Jesus’ ministry. I have no doubt in my mind that Jesus has fulfilled this covenant. Through Him the law has been written on each of our hearts, through Him our sins are forgiven, and through Him we can proclaim “we know the Lord!”

Time of Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus Christ to save us from our sins, and teach us how to know and love You. May we always remember the lessons He taught us, and may we never forget the laws that You have written on our hearts. Amen.


The Lord’s Prayer


Closing Hymn
189 Fairest Lord Jesus http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh189.sht

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