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

Saved from Death but not from Pain

March 15, 2015
Opening Hymns:
465 Holy Spirit Truth Divine http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh465.sht

Scripture Reading:
John 3:14-21
3:14 And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up,

3:15 that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.

3:16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.

3:17 "Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.

3:18 Those who believe in him are not condemned; but those who do not believe are condemned already, because they have not believed in the name of the only Son of God.

3:19 And this is the judgment, that the light has come into the world, and people loved darkness rather than light because their deeds were evil.

3:20 For all who do evil hate the light and do not come to the light, so that their deeds may not be exposed.

3:21 But those who do what is true come to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that their deeds have been done in God."

Numbers 21:4-9
21:4 From Mount Hor they set out by the way to the Red Sea, to go around the land of Edom; but the people became impatient on the way.

21:5 The people spoke against God and against Moses, "Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? For there is no food and no water, and we detest this miserable food."

21:6 Then the LORD sent poisonous serpents among the people, and they bit the people, so that many Israelites died.

21:7 The people came to Moses and said, "We have sinned by speaking against the LORD and against you; pray to the LORD to take away the serpents from us." So Moses prayed for the people.

21:8 And the LORD said to Moses, "Make a poisonous serpent, and set it on a pole; and everyone who is bitten shall look at it and live."

21:9 So Moses made a serpent of bronze, and put it upon a pole; and whenever a serpent bit someone, that person would look at the serpent of bronze and live.

Message:
It’s hard to talk about one of these scriptures without thinking of the other. The symbolism is so perfect. We look to Jesus for forgiveness of our sins, and for eternal life just as the Israelites looked towards the snake that God commanded Moses make so that they would be healed.

It is striking to me that the Israelite’s plea for forgiveness did not help them escape the snakes that slithered underfoot. God did not take away the consequence for their actions, but instead created a way that they could be healed. While the Israelites were still plagued by snakes, they were free from the fear of death.

It is the same for us. We are not free from the struggles of the world. We are not free from the temptations to sin. Nor would we be free of the consequences. You can bet that if you steal, lie, cheat, or dishonor your father and mother there will be consequences that you will face in this world. We are not freed from the sorrows that can come with life and death. Instead God offers us hope. He has given us His Son whom we can look to for salvation. We are saved from the death that would have come through our sins. We are instead brought to an eternal life with our heavenly father. Though the bites from our sins can sting, we can be assured that Christ our Lord has saved us.

Time of Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for hearing us when we cry to You for forgiveness. Thank You for listening to our prayers for healing. Grant that we may always place our hope in You, for You're love endures forever. Amen


The Lord’s Prayer


Closing Hymn
185 When Morning Guilds the Skies http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh185.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.

Christ Came to Save

March 14, 2015
Opening Hymns:
354 I surrender All http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh354.sht

 

Scripture Reading:
John 3:14-21
3:14 And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up,

3:15 that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.

3:16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.

3:17 "Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.

3:18 Those who believe in him are not condemned; but those who do not believe are condemned already, because they have not believed in the name of the only Son of God.

3:19 And this is the judgment, that the light has come into the world, and people loved darkness rather than light because their deeds were evil.

3:20 For all who do evil hate the light and do not come to the light, so that their deeds may not be exposed.

3:21 But those who do what is true come to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that their deeds have been done in God."

Message:
Jesus taught us through proverbs and preaching… Through interpretation of the old scriptures, and His story in the New Testament. Through Him we learn how to live an upright and just life. There are many times where he corrects wrong doings. However, these corrections are not condemnations, but lessons. For any who repent, Jesus offers us forgiveness and love.

"Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him” (3:17). In reading this beautiful verse I often wonder how some Christians can focus on other’s condemnation, instead of focusing on helping others find salvation.

Even the different Christian sects can find quarrels with one another, instead of focusing on the similarities. But are we so different that we should quarrel? Are we not ALL brothers and sisters through Christ? The difference in all the sects is a beautiful thing to me. Like instruments in an orchestra we are all finding different ways to play the same tune. Different ways to praise the one who came to this world to save us. Different ways to show our love for God and for each other.  

Time of Prayer
Dear Lord, thank You for sending Your son into this world to save us. Forgive us when we sin, and forgive us when we quarrel with one another. Help us learn together how best to love and serve You and each other, in Jesus name we pray. Amen.


The Lord’s Prayer


Closing Hymn
419 I am Thine O Lord http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh419.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

Brothers and Sisters

March 12, 2015

Opening Hymns:
526 What a Friend We have in Jesus http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh526.sht

Scripture Reading:
Ephesians 2:1-10
2:1 You were dead through the trespasses and sins

2:2 in which you once lived, following the course of this world, following the ruler of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work among those who are disobedient.

2:3 All of us once lived among them in the passions of our flesh, following the desires of flesh and senses, and we were by nature children of wrath, like everyone else.

2:4 But God, who is rich in mercy, out of the great love with which he loved us

2:5 even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ--by grace you have been saved--

2:6 and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus,

2:7 so that in the ages to come he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.

2:8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God--

2:9 not the result of works, so that no one may boast.

2:10 For we are what he has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand to be our way of life.

Message:
Have you ever gone to a different church and felt out of place? Maybe you’ve even gone to a church of a different denomination. Sometimes it can be hard seeing things done in a very unfamiliar way. Some things might not seem right, some scriptures may be interpreted differently.

Back in college I was roommates with 3 wonderful people, and each of us were Christians of a different denomination. Sometimes we would have bible studies together, which would help us see the different ways we viewed some scriptures. We each tried to be respectful of each other’s beliefs, while at the same time recognizing that not everything was agreed upon. Sometimes their view of scripture would help me see it in a new light… and sometimes (I have to admit), I felt like I needed to teach them the “correct meaning” of the scripture.

I’m still friends with each of them, and often reflect on the bible studies and times that I’ve gone to churches of different denominations. While I may not agree with all interpretations of scriptures, the scripture reading for today reminds me that we are all saved through Jesus Christ. It is not anything any of us have earned. We aren’t saved because of the church we go to, or how often we volunteer. We cannot boast in our own works, it is all through Jesus that we are saved. When I think about that it doesn’t seem like there is much of a difference in our beliefs at all. At the core of Christianity is salvation through Jesus Christ.  

Time of Prayer
Dear Savior. Thank You for loving us through all our faults. Thank You for forgiving us of our sins. Help us each to focus our hearts on You. Let us never forget that we are all brothers and sisters through Christ Jesus. Amen.


The Lord’s Prayer


Closing Hymn
469 Jesus is All the World to Me http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh469.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.

Our Forgiving Lord

March 11, 2015

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

Scripture Reading:
Numbers 21:4-9
21:4 From Mount Hor they set out by the way to the Red Sea, to go around the land of Edom; but the people became impatient on the way.

21:5 The people spoke against God and against Moses, "Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? For there is no food and no water, and we detest this miserable food."

21:6 Then the LORD sent poisonous serpents among the people, and they bit the people, so that many Israelites died.

21:7 The people came to Moses and said, "We have sinned by speaking against the LORD and against you; pray to the LORD to take away the serpents from us." So Moses prayed for the people.

21:8 And the LORD said to Moses, "Make a poisonous serpent, and set it on a pole; and everyone who is bitten shall look at it and live."

21:9 So Moses made a serpent of bronze, and put it upon a pole; and whenever a serpent bit someone, that person would look at the serpent of bronze and live.

Message:
In the Old Testament we often see a God that is more harsh and angry than we do in the New Testament. He floods the world, and destroys entire cities. Here, He sends poisonous serpents after His chosen people! I’m sure glad that I wasn’t living back then.

However, along with the punishments, we can see the forgiveness that has been there since the creation of the world. In the flood he spared Noah and his family, as Noah was a righteous man (Genesis 6). God would have spared Sodom if even 10 righteous people lived there (Genesis 18). And in today’s scripture God offers forgiveness as well.

If the Israelites trusted God and Moses, and looked at the bronze serpent they would live. Even through their sin of talking against God and Moses, God offers them forgiveness. He listens to them when repent, and grants them a way to be spared from the punishment that was to befall them.

For us forgiveness comes through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Through faith in Him we are cleansed from our sins as well. If we look to Jesus our lives can be saved.

 
Time of Prayer
Dear Lord, thank You for offering us forgiveness. Grant that we too can forgive others of their transgressions as You have forgiven ours. Amen.

The Lord’s Prayer


Closing Hymn
576 Rise up Oh Men of God http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh576.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

Are We There Yet?

March 10, 2015
Opening Hymns:
I come to the Garden Alone http://www.songandpraise.org/i-come-to-the-garden-alone-favorite-hymn.htm

Scripture Reading:
Numbers 21:4-9
21:4 From Mount Hor they set out by the way to the Red Sea, to go around the land of Edom; but the people became impatient on the way.

21:5 The people spoke against God and against Moses, "Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? For there is no food and no water, and we detest this miserable food."

21:6 Then the LORD sent poisonous serpents among the people, and they bit the people, so that many Israelites died.

21:7 The people came to Moses and said, "We have sinned by speaking against the LORD and against you; pray to the LORD to take away the serpents from us." So Moses prayed for the people.

21:8 And the LORD said to Moses, "Make a poisonous serpent, and set it on a pole; and everyone who is bitten shall look at it and live."

21:9 So Moses made a serpent of bronze, and put it upon a pole; and whenever a serpent bit someone, that person would look at the serpent of bronze and live.

Message:
Sometimes when I think about the Israelites being led out of Egypt, I picture them as kids in the back of a car, saying “are we there yet”. The way we read the story, it’s almost hard to believe that they continuously question God, disobey His commandments, and question the one whom God chose to lead them.

They have not been short on miracles either… they followed the cloud and the flame prior to the river being separated for them to pass. They are being fed manna, which almost sounds like something out of a fantasy book. Why do they doubt?! How could they once again complain to God?

It is hard to see the years go by when you read this story. Remember it takes 40 years for them to make it to the Promised Land. Manna may have been magical the first few years, but I’m sure that it could get tiresome after a while, especially if there isn’t anything else to eat. As new babies are born, and the older Israelites pass on, it could make them question whether or not they will live to see the Promised Land.

Like them, we can sometimes forget the miraculous things that have been done in our own lives. When we are faced with obstacles and tragedies, we too may become angry at God. “How could he let something like this happen?” Instead of turning from God in our sorrow, we should draw close to Him, and remember the “manna” that He has given us throughout our own lives. If we turn our eyes towards Him, we shall receive comfort and healing. A comfort and love that we can share with others who suffer… for this world is not easy, it is filled with hardship, grief, and pain, along with joy, love, and peace. It is up to us to share the good with the bad, and to trust our Lord and Savior. Who, when at last our journey has finished, will say “yes, you’re here”.

Time of Prayer
Dear Lord, guide us throughout our lives. Let us never forget Your loving presence. Be with us through each of our struggles, and let us be with others too. Comfort us when we morn, heal us when we’re sick, and strengthen us when we are weak. Teach us to be there for others, as You are there for us. Amen.


The Lord’s Prayer


Closing Hymn
504 The Old Rugged Cross http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh504.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' Authority

March 8, 2015
Opening Hymns:
569 We’ve a Story to Tell to the Nations http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh569.sht

Scripture Reading:
John 2:13-22

¹³ When it was almost time for the Jewish Passover, Jesus went up to Jerusalem. ¹⁴ In the temple courts he found people selling cattle, sheep and doves, and others sitting at tables exchanging money. ¹⁵ So he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple courts, both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables. ¹⁶ To those who sold doves he said, “Get these out of here! Stop turning my Father’s house into a market!” ¹⁷ His disciples remembered that it is written: “Zeal for your house will consume me.”<sup>[a]

18</sup> The Jews then responded to him, “What sign can you show us to prove your authority to do all this?”

¹⁹ Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days.”

²⁰ They replied, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and you are going to raise it in three days?” ²¹ But the temple he had spoken of was his body. ²² After he was raised from the dead, his disciples recalled what he had said. Then they believed the scripture and the words that Jesus had spoken.

Message:
It seems like people in the New Testament are always questioning Jesus’ authority. They question it when he forgives the sins of a paralyzed man (Luke 5:17-26), they question it when he casts out demons (Luke 11: 14-16) and they are questioning it in today’s scripture.

Often, Jesus response leaves them speechless. “Which is easier: to say, “Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins…” He said to the paralyzed man, “I tell you get up, take your mat and go home” (Luke 5:23-24). “Any kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and a house divided against itself will fall… Now if I drive out demons by Beelzebub, by whom do your followers drive them out? So then, they will be your judges, but if I drive out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come to you” (Luke 11:17, 19-20).

In today’s scripture the Jews questioning Jesus in the temple would be silenced by His reply, if they could only realize what He was saying. Instead they question His ability to raise a temple in 3 days when it took 46 years to build it. Yet, how much more amazing is the true story of the death and resurrection of Jesus?!     

Time of Prayer
Dear Lord, let us remember Your loving grace. You who created the universe can do far more than we could ever imagine. Let us remember to treat Your Holy House with reverence. Let us never forget the love You have for us. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.


The Lord’s Prayer


Closing Hymn
128 He Leadeth Me http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh128.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