Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
I will be on vacation from April 30-May 2, 2010. During that time there will be no new posts on the blog. Posting will resume on May 3, 2010.
If you need anything while I am away please get in touch with one of the Elders of the church.
This Sunday, during the worship service, a representative from Gideons International will be preaching. A love offering will be taken after the worship service to support the work of Gideons International.
God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Thursday, April 29, 2010
Psalm 2: 1-12
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
The nations conspire in vain, meaning they follow their own path. That path leads them nowhere. The only path that leads anywhere is God's path. We can come up with all sort of plans and scenarios for our lives, but ultimately, our plans come to nothing. God has plans for all of us. Our calling is to discern what those plans might be so we can stay on the path God has laid out for us. Along that path there will be many blessings, but off of it there is nothing but trouble and emptiness. "Blessed are those who take refuge in him." God bless you.
Pastor Josh
<><
The nations conspire in vain, meaning they follow their own path. That path leads them nowhere. The only path that leads anywhere is God's path. We can come up with all sort of plans and scenarios for our lives, but ultimately, our plans come to nothing. God has plans for all of us. Our calling is to discern what those plans might be so we can stay on the path God has laid out for us. Along that path there will be many blessings, but off of it there is nothing but trouble and emptiness. "Blessed are those who take refuge in him." God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Psalm 1: 1-6
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
The way to have a blessed life: to spend time with the Lord. The Psalmist writes here 'but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.' In other words, spending time with God in prayer, Bible Study, worship, etc. is the only way to have a blessed life. Some can settle for 'OK' lives, or content lives. But if you want to have a life with more blessings make sure you spend time with the Lord each and every day. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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The way to have a blessed life: to spend time with the Lord. The Psalmist writes here 'but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.' In other words, spending time with God in prayer, Bible Study, worship, etc. is the only way to have a blessed life. Some can settle for 'OK' lives, or content lives. But if you want to have a life with more blessings make sure you spend time with the Lord each and every day. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Jonah 4: 1-11; Jonah's Anger at the Lord's Compassion
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
Is it OK to question, or be upset with, God? Absolutely. Faith is a journey, but it is also relationship: a very deep and personal relationship with God. Part of being in a relationship is knowing the other person. We are allowed to ask God questions because God wants us to know him better. We may not always get an answer, or like the answer we do get, but we are allowed to ask. We are also allowed to show God how we feel. God wants to know us as well, and so we are supposed to tell God how we are feeling. Jonah follows this path. He questions the Lord's compassion. Following this episode I'm sure Jonah knew the Lord a lot better. Jonah also shows God how angry he is. Following this episode I'm sure God knew Jonah a lot better. Faith is our relationship with God. This means we are allowed, and encouraged, to ask God questions. We are also allowed, and encouraged, to tell God how we feel. Get to know God a little better and allow him to get to you know you. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Is it OK to question, or be upset with, God? Absolutely. Faith is a journey, but it is also relationship: a very deep and personal relationship with God. Part of being in a relationship is knowing the other person. We are allowed to ask God questions because God wants us to know him better. We may not always get an answer, or like the answer we do get, but we are allowed to ask. We are also allowed to show God how we feel. God wants to know us as well, and so we are supposed to tell God how we are feeling. Jonah follows this path. He questions the Lord's compassion. Following this episode I'm sure Jonah knew the Lord a lot better. Jonah also shows God how angry he is. Following this episode I'm sure God knew Jonah a lot better. Faith is our relationship with God. This means we are allowed, and encouraged, to ask God questions. We are also allowed, and encouraged, to tell God how we feel. Get to know God a little better and allow him to get to you know you. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Monday, April 26, 2010
Jonah 3: 1-10; Jonah Goes to Ninevah
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
Repentance = Salvation. We are not told too much about the sins Ninevah has committed, but we are led to understand that they are, to summarize, living outside of God's will. However, when they hear the message of Jonah, that they will be punished, they repent from their sin. Due to this repentance, God shows compassion to Ninevah and spares the city. This is the same offer God makes to us. We have all sinned and fallen short of God's glory. We have all lived outside of God's will. However, God makes us an offer: "Repent! Accept Jesus as personal Lord and Savior! Be obedient to me. If you do all of this everything will be forgiven." Repentance = Salvation. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Repentance = Salvation. We are not told too much about the sins Ninevah has committed, but we are led to understand that they are, to summarize, living outside of God's will. However, when they hear the message of Jonah, that they will be punished, they repent from their sin. Due to this repentance, God shows compassion to Ninevah and spares the city. This is the same offer God makes to us. We have all sinned and fallen short of God's glory. We have all lived outside of God's will. However, God makes us an offer: "Repent! Accept Jesus as personal Lord and Savior! Be obedient to me. If you do all of this everything will be forgiven." Repentance = Salvation. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Sunday, April 25, 2010
Jonah 2: 1-10; Jonah's Prayer
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
"In my distress I called to the LORD, and he answered me. From the depths of the grave I called for help, and you listened to my cry." God hears our prayer, every single one of them. It does not matter when it is said, from where, or anything. God has ears to hear us always. We may not always like the answer to those prayers, but in all things we have the comfort of knowing God will always hear the prayers we lift up to his name. Your words will never, ever, fall on deaf ears. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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"In my distress I called to the LORD, and he answered me. From the depths of the grave I called for help, and you listened to my cry." God hears our prayer, every single one of them. It does not matter when it is said, from where, or anything. God has ears to hear us always. We may not always like the answer to those prayers, but in all things we have the comfort of knowing God will always hear the prayers we lift up to his name. Your words will never, ever, fall on deaf ears. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Saturday, April 24, 2010
Jonah 1: 1-17; Jonah Flees from the Lord
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
Do not run away from God. I will not threaten three days in the belly of a whale. That is up to God. I will tell you, though, that you will never be at peace if you run from the Lord. There will always be that feeling in your heart that something is not quite right. Following God's will is not always an easy thing, but it is doable. God will never ask us to do something we cannot handle. And he will be with us every step of the way. Running away from God is not the answer. That path will only lead to trouble and emptiness. Follow God. Trust God. God will be there to take care of you as you follow his will. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Do not run away from God. I will not threaten three days in the belly of a whale. That is up to God. I will tell you, though, that you will never be at peace if you run from the Lord. There will always be that feeling in your heart that something is not quite right. Following God's will is not always an easy thing, but it is doable. God will never ask us to do something we cannot handle. And he will be with us every step of the way. Running away from God is not the answer. That path will only lead to trouble and emptiness. Follow God. Trust God. God will be there to take care of you as you follow his will. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Friday, April 23, 2010
Malachi 4: 1-6; The Day of the Lord
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
The Day of the Lord will come, as Jesus says, like a thief in the night. No one, save God, knows when it is going to happen. Many people have tried over the years to predict when this day is going to come, but if Jesus, God's son, does not know then we will be unable to figure it out. We will never know when that day is coming. Ours is not to figure out the date and time. Ours is to prepare ourselves and the rest of the world so we are ready when Christ comes. How do we do that? By sharing with others the good news of Jesus Christ. By encouraging people in their faith to make sure they are living holy lives. By making sure we are following God's will. We may not know when Jesus is coming, but we can be ready for him when he arrives. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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The Day of the Lord will come, as Jesus says, like a thief in the night. No one, save God, knows when it is going to happen. Many people have tried over the years to predict when this day is going to come, but if Jesus, God's son, does not know then we will be unable to figure it out. We will never know when that day is coming. Ours is not to figure out the date and time. Ours is to prepare ourselves and the rest of the world so we are ready when Christ comes. How do we do that? By sharing with others the good news of Jesus Christ. By encouraging people in their faith to make sure they are living holy lives. By making sure we are following God's will. We may not know when Jesus is coming, but we can be ready for him when he arrives. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Thursday, April 22, 2010
Sunday Scripture and Sermon for April 25, 2010
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
The Scripture passage for this Sunday is from John 10: 22-30 in which Jesus talks about his sheep. The sermon is titled 'Take My Hand' and will focus on the fact that as we go through life Christ holds our hand. I hope to see you all on Sunday morning. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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The Scripture passage for this Sunday is from John 10: 22-30 in which Jesus talks about his sheep. The sermon is titled 'Take My Hand' and will focus on the fact that as we go through life Christ holds our hand. I hope to see you all on Sunday morning. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Malachi 3: 6-18; Robbing God
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
Is there anything you are keeping to yourself that belongs to the Lord? It could be anything from tithes to service. It could be your very life as well. We belong to the Lord; he has claimed us. This is good news for us, not bad news, because it means for us God, the creator of the heavens and the earth, wants to be involved in our lives. It also means that we get to serve God, the Lord of the earth. We are God's. This is not always easy to accept. We are taught to cling fiercely to our independence, not allow someone else to control our life. Remember, though, the good news. God has claimed us. We are his children, which means we are entitled to the blessings of that inheritance. Our part, though, is to accept that we belong to God, and give ourselves to him. That is our offering, that is our gift: the gift ourselves. Do not keep from God what is his. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Is there anything you are keeping to yourself that belongs to the Lord? It could be anything from tithes to service. It could be your very life as well. We belong to the Lord; he has claimed us. This is good news for us, not bad news, because it means for us God, the creator of the heavens and the earth, wants to be involved in our lives. It also means that we get to serve God, the Lord of the earth. We are God's. This is not always easy to accept. We are taught to cling fiercely to our independence, not allow someone else to control our life. Remember, though, the good news. God has claimed us. We are his children, which means we are entitled to the blessings of that inheritance. Our part, though, is to accept that we belong to God, and give ourselves to him. That is our offering, that is our gift: the gift ourselves. Do not keep from God what is his. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Malachi 2: 17- 3: 5; The Day of Judgment
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
"Where is the God of justice?" We sometimes find ourselves asking that question. Where is God? There are many times God feels absent, when it feel as though Jesus is nowhere near us. Rest assured, Jesus is always with us. No matter what we do or where we go Jesus is always there. Remember his promise, 'Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.' Jesus is right here, by your side, every second of your life. Seeing him is not always easy. Hearing him is not always easy. Feeling him is not always easy. None of that means that Jesus is not here. Jesus is always here, always with us, no matter what. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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"Where is the God of justice?" We sometimes find ourselves asking that question. Where is God? There are many times God feels absent, when it feel as though Jesus is nowhere near us. Rest assured, Jesus is always with us. No matter what we do or where we go Jesus is always there. Remember his promise, 'Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.' Jesus is right here, by your side, every second of your life. Seeing him is not always easy. Hearing him is not always easy. Feeling him is not always easy. None of that means that Jesus is not here. Jesus is always here, always with us, no matter what. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Malachi 2: 10-16; Judah Unfaithful
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
"Why do we profane the covenant of our fathers by breaking faith with one another?" The importance of unity cannot be overstated. Jesus said, 'A house divided against itself cannot stand.' He knew what he was talking about when he said that. Malachi knew what he was talking about when he spoke his words of unity. I do not know for sure who is right: the Presbyterians, the Baptists, the Disciples, etc. What I do know is that God does not like the division that exists in the church right now. We all need to work together to make the church one, just as Jesus wants it to be. We all need to come together as the Body of Christ. Where do we start? We find common ground. 'One Lord, one faith, one God and Father of all.' Let's start there. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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"Why do we profane the covenant of our fathers by breaking faith with one another?" The importance of unity cannot be overstated. Jesus said, 'A house divided against itself cannot stand.' He knew what he was talking about when he said that. Malachi knew what he was talking about when he spoke his words of unity. I do not know for sure who is right: the Presbyterians, the Baptists, the Disciples, etc. What I do know is that God does not like the division that exists in the church right now. We all need to work together to make the church one, just as Jesus wants it to be. We all need to come together as the Body of Christ. Where do we start? We find common ground. 'One Lord, one faith, one God and Father of all.' Let's start there. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Monday, April 19, 2010
Malachi 2: 1-9; Admonition for the Priests
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
It is not always easy saying what is given from God. Malachi has a very difficult job of telling people, in this case priests, of their sin. Many of the prophets had a similar job. John the Baptist, Jesus' contemporary, also had the hard job of calling to attention the sins of Herod and his wife. For all of these people sharing the word of God that had been given to them was not easy, but they did so. In faith they preached what God gave them knowing their words were the words of God. Even though it was difficult for them they shared God's word. Let these prophets be your inspiration. If you have a word from the Lord, be sure to share it, no matter how unpopular it may be. Speak without fear, always. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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It is not always easy saying what is given from God. Malachi has a very difficult job of telling people, in this case priests, of their sin. Many of the prophets had a similar job. John the Baptist, Jesus' contemporary, also had the hard job of calling to attention the sins of Herod and his wife. For all of these people sharing the word of God that had been given to them was not easy, but they did so. In faith they preached what God gave them knowing their words were the words of God. Even though it was difficult for them they shared God's word. Let these prophets be your inspiration. If you have a word from the Lord, be sure to share it, no matter how unpopular it may be. Speak without fear, always. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Sunday, April 18, 2010
Malachi 1: 6-14; Blemished Sacrifices
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
Is there anything you do outside the will of God? Confession is not an easy thing, especially when we think what we are doing is right. The Bible is a very useful tool for things like that. The Bible, page after page, gives us an idea of the kinds of things God wants us to be doing. Not all of them are easy, but with God's help we can do anything. We are called to be holy, to, in short, do all God has called us to do. Let us remember that call to holiness. Let us all live lives that will be pleasing to the Lord. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
<><
Is there anything you do outside the will of God? Confession is not an easy thing, especially when we think what we are doing is right. The Bible is a very useful tool for things like that. The Bible, page after page, gives us an idea of the kinds of things God wants us to be doing. Not all of them are easy, but with God's help we can do anything. We are called to be holy, to, in short, do all God has called us to do. Let us remember that call to holiness. Let us all live lives that will be pleasing to the Lord. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Saturday, April 17, 2010
Malachi 1: 1-5; Jacob Loved, Esau Hated
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
"But you ask, 'How have you loved us?'" God has shown us his love in many ways. Jesus is the most obvious, and significant, way God has revealed his love. But Jesus is not the only way. Today I extend to you an invitation. I invite you to look at your life, really look at it, and make a list of all the ways God has shown you his love for you. Whether it is a good job, a great family, a nice home, a nice afternoon, etc., take time to consider the many ways God has blessed your life and shown you his love. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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"But you ask, 'How have you loved us?'" God has shown us his love in many ways. Jesus is the most obvious, and significant, way God has revealed his love. But Jesus is not the only way. Today I extend to you an invitation. I invite you to look at your life, really look at it, and make a list of all the ways God has shown you his love for you. Whether it is a good job, a great family, a nice home, a nice afternoon, etc., take time to consider the many ways God has blessed your life and shown you his love. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Friday, April 16, 2010
Evening Worship and International Dinner
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
This Sunday evening, April 18, 2010, we will be having an International Themed dinner. Please bring your favorite international dish to the event. Following the dinner we will be having a worship service. Please join us for this special night of fellowship and worship. The festivities will begin at 5:30 p.m. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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This Sunday evening, April 18, 2010, we will be having an International Themed dinner. Please bring your favorite international dish to the event. Following the dinner we will be having a worship service. Please join us for this special night of fellowship and worship. The festivities will begin at 5:30 p.m. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Mark 16: 9-20; Resurrection Appearances
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
Faith is really important. Jesus impresses the importance of belief on his disciples in these various resurrection appearances. Jesus chastises his disciples for their lack of faith, because they did not believe in the resurrection. Believing in God is the best thing we can, that is the first step. From belief stems works and other acts of ministry that are also important, but it all begins with faith. We have to believe in God and in the resurrected Christ before we can do anything else. For those of us who do believe there is a call to enhance our faith, to grow in our belief in God. What we do is important. But before we do anything in the name of Jesus, we have to believe in the name of Jesus. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
<><
Faith is really important. Jesus impresses the importance of belief on his disciples in these various resurrection appearances. Jesus chastises his disciples for their lack of faith, because they did not believe in the resurrection. Believing in God is the best thing we can, that is the first step. From belief stems works and other acts of ministry that are also important, but it all begins with faith. We have to believe in God and in the resurrected Christ before we can do anything else. For those of us who do believe there is a call to enhance our faith, to grow in our belief in God. What we do is important. But before we do anything in the name of Jesus, we have to believe in the name of Jesus. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Thursday, April 15, 2010
Sunday Scripture and Sermon for April 18, 2010
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
The Scripture passage for this Sunday is from John 21: 1-19, in which Jesus appears to his disciples and shares a meal with them. The sermon is titled, 'Come, Eat!' and will focus on the invitation that has been extended to all of us to come and eat with Christ and be a part of his life. I hope to see you all on Sunday morning. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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The Scripture passage for this Sunday is from John 21: 1-19, in which Jesus appears to his disciples and shares a meal with them. The sermon is titled, 'Come, Eat!' and will focus on the invitation that has been extended to all of us to come and eat with Christ and be a part of his life. I hope to see you all on Sunday morning. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Mark 16: 1-8; The Resurrection
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
The good news: Jesus is alive. The bad news: the women are too afraid to tell anyone what they have seen. Obviously they eventually tell someone, as we are living proof that the news of Christ's resurrection reached other ears. However, we are still left stunned by the fear the followers of Jesus displayed on this day. They were so afraid they did not say anything to anyone. Are we going to do the same? Are we going to let our fear drive us: our fear of offending someone, of losing a friend, of being unpopular. We need to tell people about Jesus, especially about his resurrection. Do not let fear, or anything else, keep you from telling people about Jesus. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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The good news: Jesus is alive. The bad news: the women are too afraid to tell anyone what they have seen. Obviously they eventually tell someone, as we are living proof that the news of Christ's resurrection reached other ears. However, we are still left stunned by the fear the followers of Jesus displayed on this day. They were so afraid they did not say anything to anyone. Are we going to do the same? Are we going to let our fear drive us: our fear of offending someone, of losing a friend, of being unpopular. We need to tell people about Jesus, especially about his resurrection. Do not let fear, or anything else, keep you from telling people about Jesus. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Mark 15: 42-47; The Burial of Jesus
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
Jesus died. What more is there to say? Jesus died so that we might have life in us. His mission for our salvation is now complete. Jesus can now rest. I sometimes like to think of the burial, and Holy Saturday, in that way: that Jesus is resting from his labors. Obviously Jesus is raised from the grave and does more work once he is raised, but here I think we can imagine Jesus resting from the work he has been doing for the last several years. Jesus did many things, all of which came to a head on Good Friday. Jesus worked hard for our life and salvation, and now he is resting from that work. The good news, even better news I should say, is that Jesus will rise. Jesus will be resurrected to do more work and bless us even more. Jesus may be resting now, but he will be back. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
<><
Jesus died. What more is there to say? Jesus died so that we might have life in us. His mission for our salvation is now complete. Jesus can now rest. I sometimes like to think of the burial, and Holy Saturday, in that way: that Jesus is resting from his labors. Obviously Jesus is raised from the grave and does more work once he is raised, but here I think we can imagine Jesus resting from the work he has been doing for the last several years. Jesus did many things, all of which came to a head on Good Friday. Jesus worked hard for our life and salvation, and now he is resting from that work. The good news, even better news I should say, is that Jesus will rise. Jesus will be resurrected to do more work and bless us even more. Jesus may be resting now, but he will be back. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Mark 15: 33-41; The Death of Jesus
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
'My God, my God! Why have you forsaken me?' Some of us have said, or thought, these words as we have gone through our lives our journeys of faith. There are times when it feels as though we have been abandoned. There are times when we have felt extreme pain, whether physical or emotional. One of the blessings of the suffering of Christ is that he has gone through those same things. Jesus has gone through unbearable pain and suffering. Jesus has been at a place in his life when he felt abandoned by God. The good news in that is that because Jesus has been through all of that, and anything else we may face, he can help us when we suffer. In other words, Jesus knows how to deal with the pain and suffering, which means he can help us when we suffer. Feel abandoned? Feel pain? Come to Jesus and he can help you. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
<><
'My God, my God! Why have you forsaken me?' Some of us have said, or thought, these words as we have gone through our lives our journeys of faith. There are times when it feels as though we have been abandoned. There are times when we have felt extreme pain, whether physical or emotional. One of the blessings of the suffering of Christ is that he has gone through those same things. Jesus has gone through unbearable pain and suffering. Jesus has been at a place in his life when he felt abandoned by God. The good news in that is that because Jesus has been through all of that, and anything else we may face, he can help us when we suffer. In other words, Jesus knows how to deal with the pain and suffering, which means he can help us when we suffer. Feel abandoned? Feel pain? Come to Jesus and he can help you. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Monday, April 12, 2010
Mark 15: 21-32; The Crucifixion
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
Even now, the people still do not get it. Jesus has come to be the salvation of the world. For a long time now Jesus has been going through the cities and towns preaching and teaching, healing those who are sick, bringing people back into a right relationship with God. All of that has led Jesus here, to the cross, where he died for the forgiveness of sins. What do we see? We see people mocking Jesus, and expressing their unbelief in him. What will our confession be? Those around Jesus during this time 'confessed' him as an imposter and a fraud. What will we say of Jesus? Will we look at him as just some prophet who said some nice things? Or will we confess him, as Thomas says in John's gospel, 'my Lord and my God?' As we see Jesus on the cross we are faced with the question who is Jesus? Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
<><
Even now, the people still do not get it. Jesus has come to be the salvation of the world. For a long time now Jesus has been going through the cities and towns preaching and teaching, healing those who are sick, bringing people back into a right relationship with God. All of that has led Jesus here, to the cross, where he died for the forgiveness of sins. What do we see? We see people mocking Jesus, and expressing their unbelief in him. What will our confession be? Those around Jesus during this time 'confessed' him as an imposter and a fraud. What will we say of Jesus? Will we look at him as just some prophet who said some nice things? Or will we confess him, as Thomas says in John's gospel, 'my Lord and my God?' As we see Jesus on the cross we are faced with the question who is Jesus? Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Sunday, April 11, 2010
Mark 15: 16-20; The Soldiers Mock Jesus
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
The soldiers mock the crucified Christ, but we worship him. We praise this Christ he is being so mistreated. We worship because he did it all for our sake. There is a contrast. The Son of God is not supposed to be mocked, beaten, and crucified. And yet, he is. Jesus goes through all of this to make sure we are saved. So we worship him. With his crown of thorns, his purple robe, and a cross for his throne. We worship and praise Jesus because he did all of this, he endured all of this, to make sure we have life in us. O Worship the King. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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The soldiers mock the crucified Christ, but we worship him. We praise this Christ he is being so mistreated. We worship because he did it all for our sake. There is a contrast. The Son of God is not supposed to be mocked, beaten, and crucified. And yet, he is. Jesus goes through all of this to make sure we are saved. So we worship him. With his crown of thorns, his purple robe, and a cross for his throne. We worship and praise Jesus because he did all of this, he endured all of this, to make sure we have life in us. O Worship the King. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Saturday, April 10, 2010
Mark 15: 1-15; Jesus Before Pilate
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
Pilate chooses to please the crowd, rather than do what is right. He forsakes Jesus in favor of political and popular gain. How many times have we done the same? None of us have handed Jesus over to be crucified, but there have been times when we have forsaken Jesus to win favor with the world and those around us. It is not always an easy thing to stand up for Jesus. Worldly favor is no small thing. But as we read this passage let us remember the love of Jesus, a love so strong he was willing to go to the cross to give us life. Remember that love, and let us all remember to show Jesus the same love. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Pilate chooses to please the crowd, rather than do what is right. He forsakes Jesus in favor of political and popular gain. How many times have we done the same? None of us have handed Jesus over to be crucified, but there have been times when we have forsaken Jesus to win favor with the world and those around us. It is not always an easy thing to stand up for Jesus. Worldly favor is no small thing. But as we read this passage let us remember the love of Jesus, a love so strong he was willing to go to the cross to give us life. Remember that love, and let us all remember to show Jesus the same love. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Friday, April 9, 2010
Mark 14: 66-72; Peter Denies Jesus
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
Peter personifies the salvation we have all received through Christ. Here we find Peter, one of Jesus 12 disciples, and a member of Jesus' inner circle (with James and John) denying Jesus not once, not twice, but three times. Peter is told by Jesus that he will be the foundation of the church, but at this moment we find Peter saying, 'I don't know this man you're talking about.' However, in the end of the passage Peter leaves the courtyard and weeps bitterly, showing his repentance for the sin he has committed. Later we find Peter welcomed back by Christ as a member of the disciples. Peter sins. Peter repents. Peter is forgiven. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Peter personifies the salvation we have all received through Christ. Here we find Peter, one of Jesus 12 disciples, and a member of Jesus' inner circle (with James and John) denying Jesus not once, not twice, but three times. Peter is told by Jesus that he will be the foundation of the church, but at this moment we find Peter saying, 'I don't know this man you're talking about.' However, in the end of the passage Peter leaves the courtyard and weeps bitterly, showing his repentance for the sin he has committed. Later we find Peter welcomed back by Christ as a member of the disciples. Peter sins. Peter repents. Peter is forgiven. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Thursday, April 8, 2010
Sunday Scripture and Sermon for April 11, 2010
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
Our Scripture passage for this Sunday is John 20: 19-31 in which Jesus appears to his disciples, including Thomas who doubts Jesus' resurrection. The sermon is titled 'Where Did Jesus Go?' and will focus on the struggle we sometimes have of finding Jesus in difficult times. I hope to see you all on Sunday. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Our Scripture passage for this Sunday is John 20: 19-31 in which Jesus appears to his disciples, including Thomas who doubts Jesus' resurrection. The sermon is titled 'Where Did Jesus Go?' and will focus on the struggle we sometimes have of finding Jesus in difficult times. I hope to see you all on Sunday. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Mark 14: 53-65; Before the Sanhedrin
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
In the midst of this 'trial' organized by the religious authorities we find Jesus giving some good news. Yes, even in his time of tribulation Jesus still finds time and energy to offer hope to anyone who will receive it. 'You will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven.' We are reminded, here, that Jesus is going to come back for us. Someday Jesus will come in glory and power and take us to the place he has prepared for us. That will, indeed, be a glorious day. One in which we are delivered from our suffering. Hear this good news from Jesus, 'I will come back for you.' God bless you.
Pastor Josh
<><
In the midst of this 'trial' organized by the religious authorities we find Jesus giving some good news. Yes, even in his time of tribulation Jesus still finds time and energy to offer hope to anyone who will receive it. 'You will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven.' We are reminded, here, that Jesus is going to come back for us. Someday Jesus will come in glory and power and take us to the place he has prepared for us. That will, indeed, be a glorious day. One in which we are delivered from our suffering. Hear this good news from Jesus, 'I will come back for you.' God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Mark 14: 43-52; Jesus Arrested
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
Sometimes we just have to accept what is happening to us. Jesus probably could have escaped this situation. He had twelve men with him, and maybe a few other stragglers, who all would have been willing to fight for Jesus' release. As Jesus says in other gospels, he could have called down angels from heaven to whisk him away somewhere safe. Instead, though, we find Jesus accepting this course of events. At times we are allowed, even encouraged, to ask God what is going on and to see if he will change his mind. There are other times, though, when we need to simply accept what God is doing in our lives. This is not an easy thing to do. It requires faith on our part. We need to believe, always, that God loves us and always has our best interests at heart. Trust God and accept what he is doing in your life. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
<><
Sometimes we just have to accept what is happening to us. Jesus probably could have escaped this situation. He had twelve men with him, and maybe a few other stragglers, who all would have been willing to fight for Jesus' release. As Jesus says in other gospels, he could have called down angels from heaven to whisk him away somewhere safe. Instead, though, we find Jesus accepting this course of events. At times we are allowed, even encouraged, to ask God what is going on and to see if he will change his mind. There are other times, though, when we need to simply accept what God is doing in our lives. This is not an easy thing to do. It requires faith on our part. We need to believe, always, that God loves us and always has our best interests at heart. Trust God and accept what he is doing in your life. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Mark 14: 33-42; Gethsemane
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
It was not Jesus' desire to be crucified. This is one of the most meaningful passages in the entire passage narrative because we see here that Jesus did not want to go to the cross. Jesus wanted his life to continue; he wanted his ministry to continue; he wanted his relationship with his disciples to continue. Jesus did not want to go to the cross. However, he did go to the cross, and he went there because he wanted us to be in heaven with him. Jesus wanted to live, but he wanted to live with us more. That is the beauty of the cross: that Jesus went there, even though he did not want to, to give us life. Jesus gave up his life, against his own desires, to make sure we received salvation. That is love. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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It was not Jesus' desire to be crucified. This is one of the most meaningful passages in the entire passage narrative because we see here that Jesus did not want to go to the cross. Jesus wanted his life to continue; he wanted his ministry to continue; he wanted his relationship with his disciples to continue. Jesus did not want to go to the cross. However, he did go to the cross, and he went there because he wanted us to be in heaven with him. Jesus wanted to live, but he wanted to live with us more. That is the beauty of the cross: that Jesus went there, even though he did not want to, to give us life. Jesus gave up his life, against his own desires, to make sure we received salvation. That is love. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Monday, April 5, 2010
Mark 14: 27-32; Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
When have you denied Jesus? Jesus knows that when the chaos starts Peter will not admit that he has anything to do with Jesus. Jesus knows that when things get rough his disciples will run away, and Peter will deny him. We face difficult times. Times in which it may not be acceptable to confess Jesus as Lord and savior. Have you ever had one of those moments? Did you deny the Lord? We are supposed to read this story and learn a lesson. We are supposed to learn the importance of remaining true and faithful to Jesus, no matter what comes our way. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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When have you denied Jesus? Jesus knows that when the chaos starts Peter will not admit that he has anything to do with Jesus. Jesus knows that when things get rough his disciples will run away, and Peter will deny him. We face difficult times. Times in which it may not be acceptable to confess Jesus as Lord and savior. Have you ever had one of those moments? Did you deny the Lord? We are supposed to read this story and learn a lesson. We are supposed to learn the importance of remaining true and faithful to Jesus, no matter what comes our way. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Sunday, April 4, 2010
Mark 14: 12-26; The Lord's Supper
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
Jesus takes time to break bread with his disciples. Approaching his suffering and death Jesus takes a few moments with his disciples to give them a few last words of encouragement. Jesus could have been wrapped up in everything that is going to happen to him, ignoring his disciples and focusing on himself. Jesus does not do that. He knows this is going to be a tumultuous time for the disciples and so he spends this meal with them, in part, to prepare them for what is coming. That is the comfort of Jesus. He put his disciples before himself. He does that for us, too. Jesus does not focus on himself. He focuses on our needs, always. Whatever we may be going through Jesus is always there to help. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Jesus takes time to break bread with his disciples. Approaching his suffering and death Jesus takes a few moments with his disciples to give them a few last words of encouragement. Jesus could have been wrapped up in everything that is going to happen to him, ignoring his disciples and focusing on himself. Jesus does not do that. He knows this is going to be a tumultuous time for the disciples and so he spends this meal with them, in part, to prepare them for what is coming. That is the comfort of Jesus. He put his disciples before himself. He does that for us, too. Jesus does not focus on himself. He focuses on our needs, always. Whatever we may be going through Jesus is always there to help. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Saturday, April 3, 2010
Mark 14: 1-11; Jesus Anointed at Bethany
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
We come across this passage at a very significant time. This is Holy Saturday, the day our Lord Jesus spent in the grave. We have seen and heard all that has happened to him over the previous week and now we come across this passage in which Jesus is anointed, or worshiped. Take this day to praise, thank, and worship Jesus for what he has just done. Yesterday, he died on the cross that we might have salvation. Tomorrow, he is going to rise from the grave that we might have eternal life. Take this day to worship the King for what he has done, and is still, doing for us. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
<><
We come across this passage at a very significant time. This is Holy Saturday, the day our Lord Jesus spent in the grave. We have seen and heard all that has happened to him over the previous week and now we come across this passage in which Jesus is anointed, or worshiped. Take this day to praise, thank, and worship Jesus for what he has just done. Yesterday, he died on the cross that we might have salvation. Tomorrow, he is going to rise from the grave that we might have eternal life. Take this day to worship the King for what he has done, and is still, doing for us. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Friday, April 2, 2010
Sunday Scripture and Sermon for Easter Sunday
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
We are having two worship services this Sunday as part of our Easter celebration. Our Sunrise service will be held at 7:00 a.m. in the Chapel. During that service we will be reading John's version of the Resurrection of Jesus. The sermon will focus on the objects that stand out in Jesus' life and ministry: the manger, the cross, and the empty tomb.
We will have our 11:00 a.m. worship service in the Sanctuary. The Scripture passage for that service is Luke's version of the Resurrection of Jesus. The sermon will focus on our resurrection and the other blessings we receive through Christ's resurrection. I hope to see you all on Sunday. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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We are having two worship services this Sunday as part of our Easter celebration. Our Sunrise service will be held at 7:00 a.m. in the Chapel. During that service we will be reading John's version of the Resurrection of Jesus. The sermon will focus on the objects that stand out in Jesus' life and ministry: the manger, the cross, and the empty tomb.
We will have our 11:00 a.m. worship service in the Sanctuary. The Scripture passage for that service is Luke's version of the Resurrection of Jesus. The sermon will focus on our resurrection and the other blessings we receive through Christ's resurrection. I hope to see you all on Sunday. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Mark 13: 32-37; The Day and Hour Unknown
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
God knows when the end is going to be. It's all part of a plan, which comforts me. We may not know what is going on, or why it is going on, but God does. And as hard as it sometimes is we need to trust God and believe that he knows what he is doing. He was there in the beginning, creating the heavens and the earth. He is here, in the middle, watching over creation. And he will be there in the end, to make sure his plans are brought to fruition. Our job, our calling, is to trust God; to believe in our hearts that he knows what he is doing. God knows when the end is going to be. We need to trust that it is all going to happen according to his perfect plan. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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God knows when the end is going to be. It's all part of a plan, which comforts me. We may not know what is going on, or why it is going on, but God does. And as hard as it sometimes is we need to trust God and believe that he knows what he is doing. He was there in the beginning, creating the heavens and the earth. He is here, in the middle, watching over creation. And he will be there in the end, to make sure his plans are brought to fruition. Our job, our calling, is to trust God; to believe in our hearts that he knows what he is doing. God knows when the end is going to be. We need to trust that it is all going to happen according to his perfect plan. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Thursday, April 1, 2010
Maundy Thursday Service
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
This evening at 7:00 p.m. we will gather in the Chapel for a Maundy Thursday service. During the service we will be reading passages from Scripture that tells us of Holy Week. Also during this time we will put ourselves in Jesus' place and reflect upon what he may have been feeling during this week of his passion. I hope you are all able to make it. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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This evening at 7:00 p.m. we will gather in the Chapel for a Maundy Thursday service. During the service we will be reading passages from Scripture that tells us of Holy Week. Also during this time we will put ourselves in Jesus' place and reflect upon what he may have been feeling during this week of his passion. I hope you are all able to make it. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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Mark 13: 1-31; The Signs of the End of the Age
Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.
This does not sound like it is going to be very much fun. I will not speak for everyone else, but I am not really looking forward to all of this destruction and doom before the world ends. There is not much here about which we can feel excited. However, there is one thing that can lift us up. We know Jesus is going to be with us. He tells us as much throughout the gospels when he says, 'Surely I am with you to the very end of the age.' Amidst all the turmoil and grief we are going to have Jesus with us, helping us, giving us strength, encouragement, and grace. The world may be ending around us, but we are going to have Jesus with us every step of the way. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
<><
This does not sound like it is going to be very much fun. I will not speak for everyone else, but I am not really looking forward to all of this destruction and doom before the world ends. There is not much here about which we can feel excited. However, there is one thing that can lift us up. We know Jesus is going to be with us. He tells us as much throughout the gospels when he says, 'Surely I am with you to the very end of the age.' Amidst all the turmoil and grief we are going to have Jesus with us, helping us, giving us strength, encouragement, and grace. The world may be ending around us, but we are going to have Jesus with us every step of the way. God bless you.
Pastor Josh
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