ANOTHER CHANCE

Happy December 1st Family of Faith!! 

[Taken from Come With Me Devotional book by Suzanne Eller, #124 “Another Chance”]

Scripture

Luke 13:6-9

The Parable of the Barren Fig Tree

6 And he told this parable: “A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came seeking fruit on it and found none. 7 And he said to the vinedresser, ‘Look, for three years now I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and I find none. Cut it down. Why should it use up the ground?’ 8 And he answered him, ‘Sir, let it alone this year also, until I dig around it and put on manure. 9 Then if it should bear fruit next year, well and good; but if not, you can cut it down.’”

Grapevines curl and climb high in the vineyard, but one fails to thrive. The owner demands it be cut down, but the gardener intervenes.

There is hope for this vine.

The gardener sees its potential. Life is there, just waiting to sprout. It needs one more chance. One more year. One more fertilization. One more pruning season. While others may not see the growth waiting to explode inside of us, God does. Rather than compare us with others, He sees our potential.

He’ll prune us. He’ll water. He already envisions the fruit of love, joy, peace, gentleness, patience, faithfulness, goodness, and self-control developing in our lives. When others want to give up on us, He s ready to see how tall we will grow. Let’s give ourselves, and others, another chance to become the fruitful vine we are destined to become.  

Questions to Consider:

• What obstructions do you have in your life that keep you from growing good fruit?

• Where do you need to be “pruned” (less tv, less digital devices, less social media, etc.) in order to give your full attention to the blessings in your life?

Reflect:

• While others desire to cut you down, Jesus draws you closer to the Vine.

• Commit to reading God’s word more this week to help your faith grow and be “fertilized”!

Prayer:

Father God, during this season help us to remove those barriers in our hearts that impede our acknowledgement and acceptance of your boundless grace and mercy, so that through the Holy Spirit we may bear fruit that brings all honor and glory to you; in Christ’s name I pray, Amen.

Preach Jesus, Not Politics

1 Samuel 8:4-9

4 So all the elders of Israel gathered together and came to Samuel at Ramah. 5 They said to him, “You are old, and your sons do not follow your ways; now appoint a king to lead[b] us, such as all the other nations have.”

6 But when they said, “Give us a king to lead us,” this displeased Samuel; so he prayed to the Lord. 7 And the Lord told him: “Listento all that the people are saying to you; it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me as their king. 8 As they have done from the day I brought them up out of Egypt until this day, forsaking me and serving other gods, so they are doing to you.9 Now listen to them; but warn them solemnly and let them know what the king who will reign over them will claim as his rights.”

Over thanksgiving I had a great time visiting with family, eating, playing football and talking politics. Okay, the political talk, even though it was limited, didn’t end up being as enjoyable as everything else. In the end, I was disappointed with myself because I am often more animated when I talk about politics than I am when I talk about God and His great story of love and redemption. I love to spout statistics that support my claims in an effort, I suppose, to get people to understand their flawed way of thinking. In reality, when we are not putting God above all else, all of our thinking is flawed!

Today, there are many Christians crying out for a “king” to lead us out of the disarray our country is experiencing. Many feel that if you vote for this candidate, think this way, and have these values, then everything will be better. Even when we have sincere Christian beliefs to back our claims, we must be careful not to align ourselves with the Israelites who cried out for a king because they forgot the God who brought them out of Egypt. God brought us out of our Egypt through the blood of Jesus Christ; not through any political ruler. The real problem is that the Israelites thought they had a better solution for the world they lived in than God.

We must remember that Jesus pushed against all religious and political norms for the sole purpose of glorifying God. Jesus was not ushering in a political movement but a mighty Kingdom that would lead to unity only because one day every knee will bow and every tongue will one day confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. Politics will never unite our country or our world. When we believe that, we think we have a better solution for the world than God.

God doesn’t call us to vote for a political party, platform or person. Instead, we are called to unapologetically preach Christ crucified. Jesus Christ is our king! We can live into God’s kingdom by showing Christ-like humility, considering others better than ourselves, and carrying our cross each day. There is nothing wrong with talking politics because we have a right and a privilege in this country that we should exercise with great prayer and humility. But are we really doing it for His glory or because we think we know better?

As we enter this time of Advent and focus on the already-not-yet Kingdom of God, let us Preach Jesus, not Politics.

Pastor Ray is a wanna-be political and sports commentator. He would tell you all his political views if he didn’t think it would be a detriment to his actual job of preaching Jesus. Yet, he still finds ways to mess that up and occasionally preach politics. Pastor Ray is thankful that God’s grace is greater than all our sins and does his best to remind people of that through weekly worship at FBC Weslaco…currently meeting in the parking lot! See you Sunday!

Spanish Service

Te Doy Gloria/Al Mundo Paz

Cuan Hermoso Eres JESUS
Son Tus Palabras, Es Tu Amor
Cuan Glorioso Eres JESUS
Es Tu Poder, Fue Tu Cruz

La Que Me Salvo Me Rescato
Un Momento Ahí Nos Dio Libertad.

Te Doy Gloria Gloria
Te Doy Gloria Gloria
Te Doy Gloria Gloria
A Ti JESUS

Con una corona de espinos
Te hiciste Rey por siempre

Verse 1:

Al mundo paz nació Jesús, Nació ya nuestro Rey

El corazón ya tiene luz, Y paz su santa grey

Y paz su santa grey Y paz Y paz su santa grey

Verse 2:

Al mundo paz el Salvador, En tierra reinará

Ya es feliz el pecador, Jesús perdón le da,

Jesús perdón le da, Jesús, Jesús perdón le da

El es Jehova

Verse 1:

El es Jehova, Dios Dios de la creación El es Jehova tu Dios todo poderoso Balsamo de Galaad la roca eterna El es Jehova el Dios que te sanara

Chorus:

Canta aleluya, Canta aleluya Canta aleluya, Canta aleluya El es Jehova tu Dios todo poderoso El es Jehova el Dios que te sanara

Verse 2:

El es el gran Yo Soy El Dios de Abram Jehova Shalom El Dios de paz El Dios de Israel El Dios eterno El es Jehova el Dios que te sanara

Aleluya

Verse:

Aleluya, Aleluya Reinas tu poderoso Dios Aleluya, Aleluya Reinas tu poderoso Dios Aleluya

Chorus:

Sa--nto, Santo
El Senor Dios, poderoso
Digno eres tu, Digno eres tu, Tu eres Santo, Santo
El Senor Dios, poderoso
Digno eres tu, digno eres tu, A--men

Bridge:

Venid adoremos, Venid adoremos, Venid adoremos a Cristo el Señor

Verse 1

O Ven, O ven, Rey Emanuel, Rescata ya a Israel Que llora en su desolación Y espera su liberación

Chorus

Vendra Vendra Rey Emanuel Alegrate O Israel

Verse 3

Anhelo de los pueblos, ven; En ti podremos paz tener; De crueles guerras líbranos, Y reine soberano Dios

Verse 4

Ven tu, oh hijo de David, Tu trono establece aquí; Destruye el poder del mal. Visítanos, Rey celestial

Sunday Worship

Psalm 80:1-7, 16-18

1 Hear, O Shepherd of Israel, leading Joseph like a flock; *
shine forth, you that are enthroned upon the cherubim.

2 In the presence of Ephraim, Benjamin, and Manasseh, *
stir up your strength and come to help us.

3 Restore us, O God of hosts; *
show the light of your countenance, and we shall be saved.

4 O Lord God of hosts, *
how long will you be angered
despite the prayers of your people?

5 You have fed them with the bread of tears; *
you have given them bowls of tears to drink.

6 You have made us the derision of our neighbors, *
and our enemies laugh us to scorn.

7 Restore us, O God of hosts; *
show the light of your countenance, and we shall be saved.

16 Let your hand be upon the man of your right hand, *
the son of man you have made so strong for yourself.

17 And so will we never turn away from you; *
give us life, that we may call upon your Name.

18 Restore us, O Lord God of hosts; *
show the light of your countenance, and we shall be saved.

My Lighthouse/Joy to the World

In my wrestling and in my doubts
In my failures You won't walk out
Your great love will lead me through
You are the peace in my troubled sea
You are the peace in my troubled sea

In the silence, You won't let go
In the questions, Your truth will hold
Your great love will lead me through
You are the peace in my troubled sea
You are the peace in my troubled sea

My lighthouse, my lighthouse
Shining in the darkness. I will follow You
My lighthouse, my lighthouse
I will trust the promise
You will carry me safe to shore
Safe to shore, Safe to shore, Safe to shore

I won't fear what tomorrow brings
With each morning I'll rise and sing
My God's love will lead me through
You are the peace in my troubled sea
You are the peace in my troubled sea

Joy to the world
Joy to the world
Joy to the world, the Lord is come
Let earth receive her King
Let every heart prepare Him room
And Heaven and nature sing
And Heaven and nature sing
And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing

He rules the world with truth and grace
And makes the nations prove
The light of His righteousness
And wonders of His love
And wonders of His love
And wonders of His love
And wonders, wonders, of His love
And wonders, wonders, of His love

My lighthouse, my lighthouse
Shining in the darkness. I will follow You
My lighthouse, my lighthouse
I will trust the promise
You will carry me safe to shore
Safe to shore, Safe to shore, Safe to shore

Advent Candle Lighting and Scripture Reading

Mark 13:24-37 The Coming of the Son of Man

24 “But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, 25 and the stars will be falling from heaven, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. 26 And then they will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. 27 And then he will send out the angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven.

The Lesson of the Fig Tree

28 “From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts out its leaves, you know that summer is near. 29 So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that he is near, at the very gates. 30 Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place. 31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.

No One Knows That Day or Hour

32 “But concerning that day or that hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 33 Be on guard, keep awake.[a] For you do not know when the time will come. 34 It is like a man going on a journey, when he leaves home and puts his servants[b] in charge, each with his work, and commands the doorkeeper to stay awake. 35 Therefore stay awake—for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows,[c] or in the morning— 36 lest he come suddenly and find you asleep.37 And what I say to you I say to all: Stay awake.”

He Is Jehovah

He is Jehovah, God of creation.
He is Jehovah, Lord God almighty.
The Balm of Gilead, the Rock of Ages.
He is Jehovah, the God that healeth thee.

Sing hallelujah, sing hallelujah,
Sing hallelujah, sing hallelujah.
He is Jehovah, Lord God almighty.
He is Jehovah, the God that healeth thee.

He is the great I Am, the God of Abraham,
Jehovah Shalom, the God peace I am.
The God of Israel, the Everlasting One.
He is Jehovah, the God that healeth thee.

He's your Provider, Jehovah Jireh;
God of salvation, God of Messiah;
The Son he sent to you, and testified of him.
He is Jehovah, the God that healeth thee.

Agnus Dei/O Come All Ye Faithful

Alleluia Alleluia
For our Lord God Almighty reigns
Alleluia Alleluia
For our Lord God Almighty reigns
Alleluia

Holy Holy
Are You Lord God Almighty
Worthy is the Lamb
Worthy is the Lamb
You are Holy, Holy
Are You Lord God Almighty
Worthy is the Lamb
Worthy is the Lamb
Amen

O come let us adore Him
O come let us adore Him
O come let us adore Him
Christ the Lord

O Come, O Come Emmanuel

O come, O come Emmanuel

and ransom captive Israel

that mourns in lonely exile here,

until the Son of God appear.

O come, Thou Dayspring, come and cheer

our spirits by Thine advent here;

disperse the gloomy clouds of night,

and death’s dark shadows put to flight.

Rejoice!  Rejoice!  Emanuel shall come to thee, O Israel!

O come, Thou Wisdom from on high,

and order all things, far and nigh;

to us the path of knowledge show,

and cause us in her ways to go.

Rejoice!  Rejoice!  Emanuel shall come to thee, O Israel!

O come, Desire of nations, bind

all people in one heart and mind;

bid envy strife and quarrels cease,

fill all the world with heaven’s peace.

Rejoice!  Rejoice!  Emanuel shall come to thee, O Israel!

Sermon: Already-Not-Yet-Hope

Isaiah 9:1-7

• What words does Isaiah use to describe the Deliverer who the advent hymn says will “ransom captive Israel?” How do you feel as you read these words and think about Jesus who fulfills the promises of God?

• Why do you think Isaiah speaks of promises that won’t be fulfilled for many years as though they’ve already been fulfilled? What does this kind of logic teach us about God’s promises?

• In what way is faith in Christ an “already” kind of hope? In what way is the Christian faith a “not-yet” kind of hope? How can we learn to live out our faith in the midst of this tension between the “already” and the “not-yet” aspects of God’s kingdom?

A Prayer to Share a True Heart of Thankfulness

By: Maggie Meadows Cooper, as written for Your Daily Prayer Devotional; posted on crosscards.com

"When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider this: God has made the one as well as the other." - Ecclesiastes 7:14

It's Thanksgiving season, and I have naturally been thinking of all I am thankful for. Family, friends, jobs, material blessings, etc. Those are all things I am absolutely thankful for, but it all just seems so predictable. Too routine. Too blah. Saying I'm thankful for my family, etc. just doesn't seem like enough for some reason. It doesn't seem honest enough. It doesn't show the reality of my days. It doesn't show the depth of my depravity. It is all just too superficial. You may get what I'm saying. You may not. But hear my heart, here. I have gotten to know a number of souls in the past few years who live day to day through situations and relationships I can't even begin to understand. Their hearts and minds carry burdens that I can't even fathom because, in all honesty, I have led a fairly charmed life. There have been hiccups along the way, some unfortunate choices, and some regrets. However, through it all, I knew, without question, that I was loved and forgiven and accepted.

But some whom I speak of have never had the security I feel. They don't have "their people" who they can say with absolute certainty will always love them and stand by them as long as they are able. They don't know, without a doubt, that there is a God who loves them and will never leave them because no one in their life has modeled a love like that. It's because of them that thankfulness takes on a new meaning this year. I can't just give a blanket statement anymore. I need to tell them and others exactly what I am thankful for and Who is responsible for every good thing in my life. Because I can't guarantee them family or friends who will always be there. But I can guarantee them that there is a Savior who loves them and will never let them go. And we, as Believers, can help introduce them to  Him….the One a true heart of thankfulness comes from.

Here are three things to consider when you share Jesus, not only this Thanksgiving season, but throughout the year:

1. Talk to the Lord and proclaim His name out loud. When Jesus was about to raise Lazarus from the dead he said: "Father, thank you for hearing me. You always hear me, but I said it out loud for the sake of all these people standing here, so that they will believe you sent me." - John 11:41-42 Jesus didn't need to talk to the Lord out loud. He did it so those around Him would hear and recognize and acknowledge that this miracle came from God. If He had not, they might have given credit to his human flesh. It is our turn to acknowledge, out loud, publicly, for all to hear, where all of our thankfulness is due. When we do that, when we claim the name of Jesus and share with others about all that He has done in our lives, it can't help but resonate with those who might not know Him yet.

2. Remember to thank Him in the good and the bad. If we can share thankfulness in the good things, awesome. But if we want to make even more of an impression... share thankfulness for the hard things too. "When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider this: God has made the one as well as the other." - Ecclesiastes 7:14 I am thankful for the times the Lord has brought me to my knees in tears because they humbled me. I am thankful for the health issues I've had from time to time because they show me my humanity. I am thankful for dealing with disobedience in my children because it makes me take a good hard look at myself when the Lord reveals my own sin nature. When opportunities arise in everyday conversation, when you are sharing life with others, talk about the One who gives you life. Say His name out loud for others to hear. If others hear us talk about the Lord outside of church-away from the Christian setting where we are "supposed to"- it may mean more. If we show others that we think enough of Jesus to give Him credit for our good days and trust Him to guide our steps in the hard things too, it may plant seeds that will grow in time.

3. Keep it simple and speak gently. "But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect," - 1 Peter 3:15 The majority of the people you talk to are not Bible scholars. Many may have never even read one. You don't need fancy answers and highfalutin talk to impress anyone. You just need to speak your heart, simply. Go ahead and have an idea of what you would tell someone about the Lord and all He has done in your life, so that the next time you have an opportunity, you don't back down because you feel unprepared. Don't believe the lies Satan may whisper in your ear, that you are not qualified enough to share about the Lord or that you are undeserving of that opportunity. You are a child of the King and He wants you to share! And finally, speak gently because you never know what someone has been through or what negative experiences they may have had with "church."

Dear Jesus, Help me take time this Thanksgiving to be still, thoughtfully consider all you’ve done in my life, and praise you for the good things as well as the hard things. Give me courage, wisdom, opportunity, and the words to share you with someone who needs you as much as I do. Thank you for loving me, forgiving me, and never letting me go. You are the reason for the hope that I have.

In Your Mighty Name,

Amen

THE COLLECTOR

A sweet story by my sister-in-law Lucinda Zamora-Wiley who is a gifted and talented poet and writer. Here is a story she submitted (and was published) by GuidePost “AngelsOnEarth.org” publication Mar/Apr 2014

It had taken eight years to get pregnant again. Now in my fourth week, I rushed to the doctor with abdominal pains. Please, let this baby survive, I prayed, fearing another miscarriage.

As I pulled into the parking lot, I noticed a ladybug sitting peacefully on my side-view mirror. The first one I’d seen since my miscarriage all those years ago. It felt like a sign back the, that God was with me in my grief. Now I believed the polka-dotted creature had reappeared to let me know that my baby and I were in God’s care. The doctor confirmed that everything was fine.

Two months later, I had another scare. On the way to the doctor, a ladybug alighted on my windshield. Once again, our baby was okay.

In my final trimester, I started a ladybug collection to keep my faith strong. An enamel ladybug from a flea market for my rearview mirror, a ladybug stapler for my desk Friends, family, even my students surprised me with ladybug journals, stuffed animals and key chains.

Soon, we welcomed our baby girl. We named her Ava, Latin for “bird.” In honor of those little red ladybirds – my own personal reminders of God’s loving care.  

Questions & Reflection:

• Where has God shown Himself in your life?

• What signs do you see around you that bring comfort or peace?

Prayer:

Father God, thank you for showing up in our lives when we need you the most. Help us to seek you all the time, not just when we are hurting or feeling anxious. Teach us that your presence is a gift, given freely to us through your love and your son Jesus. Keep us near you. In Jesus’ name– Amen.

A Prayer for America

By Debbie McDaniel, as written for Your Daily Prayer Devotional; posted on Crosscards.com

It is “God who changes the times and seasons; He sets up kings and deposes them. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.” - Daniel 2:21

Sometimes in the midst of heated political battles and uncertain times, it's difficult to even know how to pray or where to begin. We just know we have a deep ache in our hearts that cries out for God's mercy, and a longing to see him heal our land. Maybe other times we wonder how effective our prayers even are. Yet God is faithful, no matter how we feel, and His Presence of power and peace still reigns over all that swirls around us in our nation today.

That same power that broke prison chains, raised Lazarus from the dead, and parted the Red Sea, the same power that healed the blind man, and delivered the delirious from demons, that same power is at work even today. He is the same. Yesterday, today, and forever. May we stand together in unity as believers in Christ, and pray for God to heal our land, and strengthen His people. May we pray for all those in authority. May we pray for God’s miraculous intervening, for blind eyes to be opened, for many to see the power of our Lord as never before.

Dear God,

Thank you for your great power.  We praise you for your Truth.  We’re grateful that you have set us free from the clutching grasp of sin and death. Would you be with your people, extending your grace, granting your freedom, providing your protection, and empowering with your strength.  We ask that you'd bring about an awakening of your presence as never seen before.  We ask that your Name be proclaimed, that all plans to silence the Name of Jesus would be thwarted and crushed. We pray that many would come to know you as Lord and Savior, we pray that many would see your Light, that you would open blind eyes and release those still imprisoned. We pray that you would unify your people for the glory of your Name, that all who call themselves Christians would rise up, believing your great Truth.

Wake us up Lord! Remind us to live aware, to redeem the time, to listen to your words, to be willing to make a difference in this land. We pray for all those in authority, that you would give them your wisdom and discernment as they lead. We ask that you would appoint strong, faithful men and women to serve this nation and our people. We pray for your great healing on our land. Shine your face on us dear God. We need you now, more than ever before. Our times are in your hands.

Thank you that you are rich in mercy and full of grace. Thank you that you are forgiving and merciful. Thank you that you are strong and mighty. Thank you that you are for us and that you fight for us still today. Bring honor to your Name, Oh Lord, for You alone are worthy.

In the Powerful Name of Jesus we pray,

Amen.

Spanish Worship Service

Abre Mis Ojos Oh Cristo

Abre mis ojos Oh Cristo Abre mi corazon yo quiero verte, yo quiero verte

Y contemplar tu majestad Y el resplandor de tu gloria Derrama tu amor y poder Mientras cantamos: Santo, Santo,

Santo, Santo, Santo Santo, Santo, Santo Santo, Santo, Santo, Yo quiero verte

Santo, Santo, Santo

Verse 1:

¡Santo! ¡Santo! ¡Santo! Señor Omnipotente, Siempre el labio mío loores te dará; ¡Santo! ¡Santo! ¡Santo! Te adoro reverente, Dios en tres Personas, bendita Trinidad.

Verse 5:

¡Santo! ¡Santo! ¡Santo! la gloria de tu nombre, Vemos en tus obras en cielo, tierra y mar. ¡Santo! ¡Santo! ¡Santo! te adora todo hombre, Dios en tres Personas, bendita Trinidad.

TENGO PAZ COMO RIO

Levanta su casa sobre la roca (3X) Y viviras

Tengo paz como un rio (3X) En mi ser

Tengo gozo en mi alma (3X) O Señor

Tengo amor en mi vida (3X) O Señor

Tengo amor, gozo, paz en mi vida (3X) O Señor

Cambiaré Mi Tristeza

Cambiaré mi tristeza
Cambiaré mi vergüenza
Los entregaré por el gozo de Dios
Cambiaré mi dolor
Y mi enfermedad
Los entregaré por el gozo de Dios

Chorus

Sí Señor sí sí Señor
Sí Señor sí sí Señor
Sí Señor sí sí Señor
Amén

Bridge

Estando atribulado pero nunca derrotado
Y perseguido esté hoy
Maldiciones no me afectan
Pues yo sé a quien voy
En Su gozo fuerte soy
Aunque triste en la noche yo esté
Gozo viene en la mañana

Gracias

Yo te doy gracias
Gracias Señor
Gracias mi Señor Jesús
Gracias muchas gracias Señor
Gracias mi Señor Jesús

Verse 2

En la cruz diste Tu vida
Entregaste todo ahí
Vida eterna regalaste al morir
Por Tu sangre tengo entrada
Ante el trono celestial
Puedo entrar confiadamente ante Ti

Way Maker (Spanish) -Abres Caminos

Verse 1:

Aquí estás, te vemos mover Te adoraré, te adoraré Aquí estás, obrando en mí Te adoraré, te adoraré

Verse 3:
Aquí estás, sanando mi corazón Te adoraré, te adoraré
Aquí estas, tocando mi corazón Te adoraré, te adoraré

Chorus:

Milagroso, abres camino Cumples promesas, luz en tinieblas Mi Dios, así eres tú

Así eres tú, Así eres tú Así eres tú, Así eres tú

Bridge 1 : Él Vive, Él Vive Él Vive, Cristo Vive

Bridge 2:

Aunque no pueda ver estás obrando Aunque no pueda ver estás obrando Siempre estás, siempre estás obrando Siempre estás, siempre estás obrando

Cuán Bello es el Señor/Tu Fidelidad

¡Cuán bello es el Señor!
¡Cuán hermoso es el Señor!
¡Cuán bello es el Señor!
Hoy le quiero adorar

La belleza de mi Señor nunca se agotará
La hermosura de mi Señor siempre resplandecerá
La belleza de mi Señor nunca se agotará
La hermosura de mi Señor siempre resplandecerá

Tu fidelidad es grande
Tu fidelidad incomparable es
Nadie como tu bendito dios
Grande es tu fidelidad

Dad Gracias

Dad gracias de corazón
Dad gracias al Santísimo
Dad gracias porque ha dado
A Su Hijo Jesús

Y ahora
Diga el débil fuerte soy
Diga el pobre rico soy
Por lo que hizo
El Señor por mí

Porque El Vive

Dios nos envió a su hijo, Cristo

El es salud paz y perdón

Sufrió y murió por mi pecado

Vacía está la tumba porque el triunfó

Porque el vive triunfaré mañana

Porque el vive ya no hay temor

Porque yo sé que el futuro es suyo

La vida vale más y más solo por el

Yo sé que un día río cruzaré

Con el dolor batallaré

Y al ver la vida triunfando invicta

Veré gloriosas luces y veré al Rey

English Worship Service

Psalm 95:1-7 ESV

Oh come, let us sing to the LORD; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!

(v. 2) Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise!

For the LORD is a great God, and a great King above all gods. In his hand are the depths of the earth; the heights of the mountains are his also. The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands formed the dry land.

(v. 6-7) Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the LORD, our Maker! For he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand.

Open the Eyes of My Heart

Open the eyes of my heart, Lord
Open the eyes of my heart
I want to see You
I want to see You

To see You high and lifted up
Shining in the light of Your glory
Pour out Your power and love
As we sing holy, holy, holy

Holy, holy, holy
We cry holy, holy, holy
You are holy, holy, holy
I want to see you

Holy, Holy, Holy/All Creatures Medley

Holy, holy, holy
Lord, God Almighty
Early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee

Holy, holy, holy
Merciful and mighty
God in three persons blessed Trinity

All creatures of our God and King
Lift up your voice and with us sing
O praise Him! Alleluia!
Thou, burning sun with golden beam
Thou, silver moon with softer gleam
O praise Him! O praise Him!
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

Holy, holy, holy
Lord, God Almighty
All Thy works shall praise Thy name in earth and sky and sea
Holy, holy, holy
Merciful and mighty
God in three persons blessed Trinity

Blessed Be The Name/I Saw the Light

Oh, for a thousand tongues to sing,
Blessed be the Name of the Lord!
The glories of my God and king!
Blessed be the Name of the Lord!

• Refrain:
  Blessed be the Name, blessed be the Name,
  Blessed be the Name of the Lord!
  Blessed be the Name, blessed be the Name,
  Blessed be the Name of the Lord!

I saw the light, I saw the light
No more darkness, no more night
Now I'm so happy no sorrow in sight
Praise the Lord I saw the light

I was a fool to wander and stray
Straight is the gate and narrow's the way
Now I have traded the wrong for the right
Praise the Lord I saw the light

Trading My Sorrows

I'm trading my sorrow
I'm trading my shame
I'm laying it down for the joy of the Lord

I'm trading my sickness
I'm trading my pain
I'm laying it down for the joy of the Lord

We say yes Lord yes Lord yes yes Lord
Yes Lord yes Lord yes yes Lord

Yes Lord yes Lord yes yes Lord Amen

I'm pressed but not crushed persecuted not abandoned
Struck down but not destroyed
I'm blessed beyond the curse for his promise will endure
And his joy's gonna be my strength

Though the sorrow may last for the night
His joy comes with the morning

Blessed Be Your Name

Every blessing You pour out I'll
Turn back to praise
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say

Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your glorious name

You give and take away
You give and take away
My heart will choose to say
Lord, blessed be Your name

Give Thanks

Give thanks with a grateful heart
Give thanks to the Holy One
Give thanks because He's given Jesus Christ, His Son

And now let the weak say, "I am strong"
Let the poor say, "I am rich
Because of what the Lord has done for us"

And now let the weak say, "I am strong"
Let the poor say, "I am rich
Because of what the Lord has done for us"

Way Maker

Even when I don't see it, You're working
Even when I don't feel it (yeah), You're working
You never stop, You never stop working
You never stop, You never stop working (You're the way maker, yeah)

Way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper
Light in the darkness
My God, that is who You are
Yeah, yeah
Way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper
Light in the darkness
My God, that is who You are
Sing that is who You are

Because He Lives

God sent His son, they called Him Jesus
He came to love, heal and forgive
He lived and died to buy my pardon
An empty grave is there to prove my savior lives

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow
Because He lives, all fear is gone
Because I know He holds the future
And life is worth the living, just because He lives

And then one day, I'll cross the river
I'll fight life's final war with pain
And then, as death gives way to victory
I'll see the lights of glory and I'll know He reigns

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow
Because He lives, all fear is gone
Because I know He holds the future
And life is worth the living, just because He lives

A Prayer of Lament from Habakkuk

By Christina Fox, as written for Your Daily Prayer devotional, posted on crosscards.com

There are some seasons in our Christian life where we wonder where God is. We call out to God and wonder if he even hears us. We plead and cry for his help but nothing changes in our circumstances. There's a place in Scripture where the writer wonders where God is: the book of Habakkuk.

HABAKKUK'S LAMENT

Unlike the laments in the Psalms, this one shows us God's response. In his lament, Habakkuk cries out to God. He asks for God's help, intervention, and justice. Like most other laments, Habakkuk responds with trust in God. The book begins with the prophet looking at the sin and idolatry around him and asking, "O LORD, how long shall I cry for help, and you will not hear? Or cry to you “Violence!” and you will not save? Why do you make me see iniquity, and why do you idly look at wrong? Destruction and violence are before me; strife and contention arise" (1:2-3). God responded to Habakkuk's question but not in the way he expected. God told Habakkuk that he would deal with the sin and idolatry. He would deal with it by sending Babylon to exact his justice. God would judge not only Judah, but their enemies as well. "Look among the nations, and see; wonder and be astounded. For I am doing a work in your days that you would not believe if told. For behold, I am raising up the Chaldeans, that bitter and hasty nation, who march through the breadth of the earth, to seize dwellings not their own" (1:5-7). This was hard for Habakkuk to hear. Babylon was an evil nation. Yet Habakkuk responded and affirmed God's sovereignty, holiness, and power, "Are you not from everlasting, O LORD my God, my Holy One? We shall not die. O LORD, you have ordained them as a judgment, and you, O Rock, have established them for reproof." (1:12). But he still wanted to know, why? (vs.13). It may seem that evil is winning the day, but one day, God's glory will cover the earth, "For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD as the waters cover the sea" 2:14). For those of us who watch the evil around us in the world or in our own lives and wonder when God will move, this is a good reminder. As our Savior said, "I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world" (John 16:33).

Habakkuk placed his trust and hope in the God who was faithful to his people in the past and trusted in his promises for the future. Jesus came as the answer to those promises. He is the answer to the suffering, injustice, and evil in the world. He is the One to whom all the stories of redemption and deliverance in the Old Testament point to. On this side of the cross, we can trust in God's perfect plan. We too can "quietly wait." We can rejoice even in the midst of our anxieties (vs. 16). Christ has come and is with us in the darkest days. And he will come again and make all things new.

Let’s Pray:

Lord, my joy is found in you. You are my salvation and my strength. Whatever my circumstances, whatever fears or anxieties I have, whatever darkness lurks on the horizon, whatever is happening in the world around me, you are my salvation and my joy. When the world around me seems confusing and hopeless, I pray that you would fill me with incredible hope in your goodness, grace and sovereignty over all things. Help me fix my gaze on you all the days of my life.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

A Prayer To Remember God's Past Help

By: Tiffany Thibault, as written for Your Daily Prayer devotional, posted on crosscards.com

Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have given me relief when I was in distress. Be gracious to me and hear my prayer! - Psalm 4:1

There are so many circumstances in our lives that can cause us to feel overwhelmed, uncertain and most definitely fearful. As we purposefully choose to make right decisions in the midst of all the hard choices, we can always find fresh comfort in the Scriptures. In every single situation in our life, whether it be a good one or a difficult one, we can also turn to the Lord in prayer. He is always alert, always ready to hear our prayers, and whether we can see it or not, He is always at work in our lives.

The amazing thing about walking this life with Jesus, is that each and every time that we turn to Him for guidance and for wisdom, He shows up. As we continue through life, trusting Him, we begin to build a “faith” history with Him. We can remind ourselves of what He has already done, which actually strengthens our faith when we turn to Him again and again to ask for His help in every one of our next steps. I love to read the stories in the Old Testament where the Israelites set up tangible reminders of moments when God moved in their lives.

• The Israelites set up 12 stones in the middle of the Jordan River to remind themselves and future generations that God had shown up and moved on their behalf (Joshua 4:1-11).

• Abraham named the mountain top “The Lord will provide” in reference to God providing a ram as a substitute sacrifice instead of his son (Genesis 22).

• The Israelites built an ark in accordance to God’s design and in it were placed the tablets of laws given to Moses by God, and it also included Aaron’s staff and a jar of manna that God fed the people with for so many long years. This was a symbol for all to see to remind themselves of God’s continual presence and provision (Exodus 16:34, Numbers 17:10).

• Jacob set up a stone altar and named it Bethel, for God had met him there (Genesis 28:18-22).

We too can set up spiritual reminders of our faith journey with the Lord. Here are a few easy ways that we can do that: It can be a date and notes next to a verse in our Bibles, it can be a set of stones with moments inscribed on them in the garden. It can be a plaque on the wall with the dates and events where God showed up, or it can be a list of answered prayers written in the back of your Bible. We keep photo books of our families growing up, so that we can remember all the good times. When I look at photo books of my family, I crave even more family time. When I look back on how God showed up and worked in my life, my faith grows and I am able to find the strength to get through my next season. However it may look in your life, you too need a tangible reminder of what God has already done in your life. Then when the moments seem long, and the struggles are hard, you can turn to them and find strength from your history with God so you can take your next steps. There is never a moment when God has not been there with you. Let’s remind ourselves of how He gave us relief when we were in distress, and let us walk boldly in faith knowing that He will hear our prayers this time as well.

O Lord, You have been so good to me in the past. You have heard my prayers, you have seen my tears. When I called out to you while I was in distress, You have answered me. Over and over again you have shown yourself to be true, to be strong. Lord, today I come to you once again. My burdens are so heavy, and I need you to help me through this new trouble. Be gracious to me Lord. Hear my prayer. Please move today in my hard situations. Please move in my heart so that I might praise you through this storm. 

In your Name I pray, Amen.

Mississippi governor’s remarkable faith statement: Finding the courage to stand for what we believe

By: Dr. Jim Denison, as written for the Denison Forum, posted on denisonforum.org

The governor of Mississippi made a remarkable statement on his Facebook page this week. Tate Reeves wrote: “It is fair to say that this last week and a half has been—personally for me—the most difficult of 2020—a year we can all agree has by its very nature been tough on all of us.”

He explains: “My two oldest girls have been by themselves in self isolation since the Wednesday after Halloween. My youngest tested positive (along with many of her precious friends and classmates).” His family’s difficulties, along with all that he faces as a governor in these hard days, have obviously been painful for him. 

As a result, he admits, “I wanted to feel sorry for myself. I wanted to focus on the challenges. Honestly, I wanted to focus on all of the negatives. But then I prayed.” 

When he did, “God put the book of Isaiah on my heart. Specifically, Isaiah 41:10—’Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.'” 

As a result, Gov. Reeves wrote, “We are going to get through these tough times. We are going to persevere. We are going to come out even stronger on the other side. Why? Because God is with us and because God is our ‘strength and refuge’ (Psalm 46).” 

I am grateful to live in a nation where the governor of a state has the freedom to express his personal faith so powerfully and persuasively. And I pray for the courage to do the same, despite the growing chorus of opposition to such freedom today. 

I’m Still Here

[paraphrased from Suzanne Eller’s “Come With Me Devotional” – A yearlong adventure in following Jesus. #40 Devotional:]

Scripture

Luke 6:48

47 Everyone who comes to me and hears my words and does them, I will show you what he is like: 48 he is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when a flood arose, the stream broke against that house and could not shake it, because it had been well built.[a] 49 But the one who hears and does not do them is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. When the stream broke against it, immediately it fell, and the ruin of that house was great.”

A storm is dangerous to the house built on sand. Wind stirs in the mountains or in the ocean, creating tumultuous squalls along the seashore.  We all experience this with the seasonal hurricanes and tropical storms every year. Sand shifts and blows away, and the house tumbles down. Not so for the house built upon a rock.

Why would anyone build a house on sand? Because it’s easier. The rock Jesus describes in this parable is native rock that rises up through the earth. It’s sturdy and unmovable, so a person has to excavate deep to find it. It takes longer, but the builder who secures his home with such solid groundwork has a great chance of standing strong in a storm.

Oh, the lessons in this story!

Life will batter us. Squalls blow out of nowhere. Trials come. Like this election we just experienced. Or the COVID virus we have been haunted with for nearly a year now.

When we safeguard our heart in the Rock of Ages, we are anchored. It’s easier to settle for shallow faith, but when we tie ourselves to unmovable faith, the calm in our hearts is far greater.

Questions to Consider:

• What are some challenges you are facing today that are shaking your faith?

• What are things you can do to make your faith stronger this week?

Reflect:

Anchor your soul in what cannot be stolen, swept away, or destroyed. Meditate on the below verses.

Matthew 6:19-21

19 “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Prayer:

Father God, I thank You that You are the God of the impossible. You can do anything. I want to trust in Your ability and not my own. Teach me to see difficulties in my life from Your perspective. Help me to focus on You and Your power. Banish any doubt from my heart and fill me with your Spirit of truth. You will never leave me or forsake me (Joshua 1:5).I love you Father with all my heart and soul. In Christ’s name I pray – Amen.

Dinner With Sinners

(originally posted October, 2019)

Matthew 9:10-17 New International Version (NIV)

10 While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew’s house, many tax collectors and sinners came and ate with him and his disciples. 11 When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?”

12 On hearing this, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. 13 But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”

Last year, George Bush and Ellen Degeneres watched the Cowboy’s game together in a suite at AT&T stadium. If you haven’t heard the fireworks, do a quick search and see what comes up. Ellen was attacked by the LGBTQ community for even associating with someone who actively fought against gay-marriage rights. Her Christ-like response was that we should be kind to one another (Ephesians 4:32). “When I say, ‘Be kind to one another’, I don’t mean only the people who think the same way that you do,” Ellen clarified. “I mean be kind to everyone. Doesn’t matter” (https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2019/oct/08/ellen-degeneres-george-w-bush-lgbt). While many praised her response, it elicited more anger from those who believed that Bush’s sins against the LGBTQ community and role in the Iraq war could not be forgiven.

It’s easy to criticize others, but don’t we see this play out in our churches? “How could you eat with him after what he did?” “How can you talk to her after what she said? How can you fellowship with those people?” “How could people act like that at church?” “How can you be friends with someone who voted that way?” “They are supposed to be Christians!” 

Yes, they are supposed to be Christians. Jesus ate with the sinners because the healthy didn’t need a doctor. That must mean there are a lot of sick people in churches who need care – not perfect people who have it all figured out so they can judge others. Let’s remember to be kind to one another – not because Ellen said it, but because Jesus lived it. Jesus cares more for the mercy we show to others in his name than any sacrifice we can give. Let’s rejoice because he calls sinners like us to join in at his banqueting table. Let’s encourage one another to practice forgiveness so that more of the sick can find healing in this community we call church. Hope to see you at our Family Council Meeting live or online November 18 at 6:15 pm. There won’t be food because of COVID-19, but next time we eat together, maybe we can call it “Dinner with Sinners.”

-Ray Sanchez

Servicio en Español 89.5

Yo Me Alegre

//Yo me alegre con los que me decían a la casa de Jehová iremos//

//Yo iré//
A la casa de Jehová yo iré

Yo Tengo un Amigo

Yo tengo un amigo que me ama me ama me ama
yo tengo un amigo que me ama su nombre es Jesús
que me ama que me ama que me ama si con tierno amor
que me ama que me ama su nombre es Jesús

(Tu tienes)

(Tenemos)

En La Cruz

Coro:

En la cruz, en la cruz, do primero vi la luz,
Y las manchas de mi alma yo lavé.
Fue allí por fe do vi a Jesús,
Y siempre feliz con Él seré.

Verse 1:

Herido, triste, a Jesús, mostrele mi dolor;
Perdido errante vi su luz, bendíjome en su amor.

Coro:

En la cruz, en la cruz, do primero vi la luz,
Y las manchas de mi alma yo lavé.
Fue allí por fe do vi a Jesús,
Y siempre feliz con Él seré.

Verse 3:

Venció la muerte con poder y el Padre le exaltó,
Confiar en Él es mi placer, morir no temo yo.

Alabaré

Chorus:

Alabaré, (alabaré), alabaré, (alabaré)
alabaré a mi Señor

Verse 1:
Juan vio el número de los redimidos
y todos alababan al Señor
Unos oraban, otros cantaban,
y todos alababan al Señor.

Verse 2:
Todos unidos juntos cantemos
Gloria y alabanzas al Señor
Gloria al Padre, gloria al Hijo
Y gloria al Espíritu de amor.

Levanto Mis Manos

Levanto mis manos
Aunque no tenga fuerzas
Levanto mis manos
Aunque tenga mil problemas

Cuando levanto mis manos
Comienzo a sentir
Una uncion que me hace cantar
Cuando levanto mis manos
Comienzo a sentir el fuego

Cuando levanto mis manos
Mis cargas se van
Nuevas fuerzas Tú me das
Todo esto es posible, todo esto es posible
Cuando levanto mis manos

Dame Cristo

Verse 1

Por la mañana al despertar Por la mañana al despertar Por la mañana al despertar Dame Cri - sto

Chorus 1

Dame Cris - to
Dame Cri - sto
puedes tener todo lo demás Mas Dame a Cri - sto
Dame Cri - sto

Verse 2

Y cuando solo estoy, Y cuando solo estoy
Y cuando solo estoy, Dame Cristo

Verse 3

Y cuando temo yo, Y cuando temo yo
Y cuando temo yo, Dame Cristo

Verse 4

Cuando vaya a morir, Cuando vaya a morir
Cuando vaya a morir, Dame Cristo

Outdoor Worship Service - English 89.5 FM

Call To Worship - Psalm 90:1-12

A Prayer of Moses, the man of God.

90 Lord, you have been our dwelling place[a]
    in all generations.
2 Before the mountains were brought forth,
    or ever you had formed the earth and the world,
    from everlasting to everlasting you are God.

3 You return man to dust
    and say, “Return, O children of man!”[b]
4 For a thousand years in your sight
    are but as yesterday when it is past,
    or as a watch in the night.

5 You sweep them away as with a flood; they are like a dream,
    like grass that is renewed in the morning:
6 in the morning it flourishes and is renewed;
    in the evening it fades and withers.

7 For we are brought to an end by your anger;
    by your wrath we are dismayed.
8 You have set our iniquities before you,
    our secret sins in the light of your presence.

9 For all our days pass away under your wrath;
    we bring our years to an end like a sigh.
10 The years of our life are seventy,
    or even by reason of strength eighty;
yet their span[c] is but toil and trouble;
    they are soon gone, and we fly away.
11 Who considers the power of your anger,
    and your wrath according to the fear of you?

12 So teach us to number our days
    that we may get a heart of wisdom.

Everlasting God

Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord
We will wait upon the Lord, we will wait upon the Lord
Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord
We will wait upon the Lord, we will wait upon the Lord

Our God, You reign forever
Our hope, our Strong Deliverer

You are the everlasting God
The everlasting God
You do not faint
You won't grow weary

At the Cross

Verse 1:

Alas, and did my Savior bleed?
And did my Sovereign die?
Would He devote that sacred head
For sinners such as I?

Verse 2:

Was it for crimes that I had done
He groaned upon the tree?
Amazing pity! grace unknown!
And love beyond degree!

Chorus:

At the cross, at the cross where I first saw the light,
And the burden of my heart rolled away,
It was there by faith I received my sight,
And now I am happy all the day!

Verse 5:

But drops of grief can ne’er repay
The debt of love I owe;
Here, Lord, I give myself away,
’Tis all that I can do.

Do Lord

Do Lord, oh, do Lord, oh, do remember me,
Do Lord, oh, do Lord, oh, do remember me,
Do Lord, oh, do Lord, oh, do remember me,
Look away beyond the blue.

I've got a home in glory land, that outshines the sun
I've got a home in glory land, that outshines the sun
I've got a home in glory land, that outshines the sun
Look away beyond the blue.

I took Jesus as my Savior, you take Him too,
I took Jesus as my Savior, you take Him too,
I took Jesus as my Savior, you take Him too,
Look away beyond the blue.

I’ll Fly Away

I'll fly away, oh, glory
I'll fly away
When I die, Hallelujah, by and by
I'll fly away

Give Thanks

Give thanks with a grateful heart
Give thanks to the Holy One
Give thanks because He's given Jesus Christ, His Son

And now let the weak say, "I am strong"
Let the poor say, "I am rich
Because of what the Lord has done for us"

Give Me Jesus

In the morning, when I rise
In the morning, when I rise
In the morning, when I rise
Give me Jesus

Give me Jesus
Give me Jesus
You can have all this world
Just give me Jesus

When I am alone
When I am alone
Oh, when I am alone
Give me Jesus

Give me Jesus
Give me Jesus
You can have all this world
Just give me Jesus

When I come to die
When I come to die
Oh, when I come to die
Give me Jesus

Eternal Life in the Shepherd’s Home

Psalm 23

• What do you think the Psalmist means when he says, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord together” (vs. 6)?

• How does a life of worship both change us today and prepare us for eternity?

• Spend a few moments praising God for His good, eternal blessings.

Blessed Assurance

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine
Oh, what a foretaste of glory divine
Heir of salvation, purchase of God
Born of His spirit, washed in His blood

Perfect submission, all is at rest
I in my Savior, am happy and blessed
Watching and waiting, looking above
Filled with His goodness, lost in His love, oh oh

This is my story, this is my song
Praising my Savior all the day long
This is my story, this is my song
Praising my Savior all the day long

A Prayer for When Your Soul Is Downcast

By: Tiffany Thibault, as written for Your Daily Prayer Devotional, posted on crosscards.com

Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God. - Psalm 43:5

Life these days is like riding a rollercoaster! If you go to any theme park, you will see people who are willing to stand in a very long line for the thrill of riding a very short ride. However, that one short ride is filled with such incredible twists, turns and drops causing the rider to scream with terror and thrill at the unexpectedness of each new jerk of that ride. The incredible rush of emotions is probably the main reason people get in line in the first place, and most certainly why so many of them return to that same ride over and over again.

Every single person I know has been impacted in some way from the coronavirus. Some have lost jobs, some haven't been able to see their elderly parent buried, some haven't been able to graduate like “normal.” People are full of worry and stress, and most definitely fear and anger. Should schools reopen? To mask or not to mask? How to work at home? How to school at home? How to safely visit elderly parents? How to pay the bills when the job is gone? How to get peace and quiet when everyone is stuck in the same house? Every single day there is conflicting news, and even more difficult decisions to be processed.

As we journey through this weird world, we are most certainly going to experience many twists and turns in our well thought out plans. Accidents still happen, sickness still comes, jobs are still being lost and the list could continue forever. Our human minds and emotions can only handle so many stressful situations before we begin to reach our limit. Our brains get tired, our souls grow weary.

As the weeks and months continue with life continuing to bear down hard, sometimes we fail to see how heavy the weight of it has become as we have adjusted to this “new normal.” When we look at the words in Psalm 43:5, we see this question: “Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me?” The author who penned these words was journeying through an incredible season of stress. He had been so absorbed in the decision making, in the stress of living through each new problem that he suddenly realized that he had sunk into a depression and that had no peace in his heart.

He seriously asks himself the question why, even though his circumstances should have been proof enough. However, as he asks himself the question, he immediately turns around and answers the question himself. He says: “Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God.”

Regardless of our circumstances, regardless of the unknown, we can always find hope in God. He is at work in every single situation in your life. He will be right there with you through every single circumstance. There will come a point when you will be able to praise Him once again. He has never stopped being your salvation. He has never stopped being your God.

It is so important that when you are feeling discouraged and tired in your roller coaster life, that you remind yourself again and again that God is with you. Praise Him through these difficult times. We certainly cannot change the strange world happenings all around us, but we can choose to keep our eyes on Jesus and we can choose to share the hope that is only found in God.

Dear Lord, Thank you that You have never left me alone to fight my battles. Thank you that even in the midst of all the uncertainty of my life and the world right now, that you are still God. Help me Lord, as I am dealing with so many different situations in my life, help my heart and mind stay focused on you. Help me to not grow downcast, but to remember that my hope is always in you. Thank you that you are my God, that you are my salvation and that you will always provide a way for me. I am trusting you Lord for this.

In Your Name I Pray, Amen.

Following The Good Shepherd In Tumultuous Times

By: Dr. Steven K. Parker

Reflection on the week:

·      How have you experienced God’s presence this week?

·      Take a few moments to prepare your heart to receive God’s word.

 Approaching God’s word: Read these words slowly, prayerfully, and thoughtfully, focusing on vs. 5.

Reading the text:

1      The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

2       He makes me lie down in green pastures.

He leads me beside still waters.

3       He restores my soul.

He leads me in paths of righteousness

for his name’s sake.

4    Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,

I will fear no evil,

for you are with me;

your rod and your staff,

they comfort me.

5    You prepare a table before me

in the presence of my enemies;

you anoint my head with oil;

my cup overflows.

6       Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me

all the days of my life,

and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord

forever.

Reflection on the passage:

·      How is the image in vs. 5 different from the verses that have come before it?

·      Restate this verse in your own words.

Pastoral Thoughts: The 23rd Psalm begins with the image of The LORD as a Shepherd who tenderly cares for His flock.  In today’s verse, the image shifts from the pasture and the shepherd-sheep relationship to the home and a host-guest relationship.  The type of hospitality described in this verse was very important in the ANE world.  In the world of this Psalm, a person who had taken a meal in one’s home was assured that the host would do everything possible to provide for and protect his guest.  God is here depicted as the ultimate host who provides for and protects His people. 

This thought can be so comforting as we navigate this tumultuous year.  As we live lives of worship, reading this great Psalm, we find ourselves, not just with a place at the table, but as God’s honored guests.  When we reflect upon the LORD’s providence as our Good Shepherd and how God blesses us daily, even in a hostile environment, we can join the Psalmist in affirming together in worship: “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows” (vs. 5).

Further Reflection:

●      How can this image of God preparing a table before us bring us comfort during a difficult year like this?

●      Spend a few moments in prayer, communing with God, thanking the Lord for Christ’s sacrifice, looking toward His sure return.

Praying together: Thank You, God, for giving us a place at Your table.  You provide everyting we need, protect us through every trying time, and bless us beyond what we deserve.  Set our hearts toward Your great, end-of-the-age banquet where we will dine with You in Your kingdom. Until then, help us to draw all people toward Your salvation, providence, and deliverance. In Jesus’ mighty name, amen.

Looking ahead:     We hope you’ll join us for worship on Sunday as we wrap up this study on the 23rd Psalm titled: Following the Good Shepherd in Tumultuous Times.  This Sunday we will be having another in-person parking lot revival service.  You can come and worship in-person or join the live online broadcast at 11 AM. 

A Closer Look at Veteran's Day

By: Cyndy Salzmann, as written 11.04.2004 for “Beyond Groundhogs and Gobblers: Putting Meaning into Your Holiday Celebrations” as posted on crosswalk.com

"I thank my God every time I remember you." - Philippians 1:3

It was the eleventh hour of the eleventh day in the eleventh month in 1918 when the world celebrated as a treaty was signed ending what was to be "the war to end all wars" - World War I. One year later, on what came to be known as Armistice Day, Americans came together to remember and honor the sacrifices of the men and women who served during the war. Soldiers who survived the war marched in parades and were honored by speeches and ceremonies recognizing their contribution to peace throughout the world. Congress declared Armistice Day a national holiday in 1938. By this time, with unrest in much of the world, Americans realized World War I would not be the last war. After the Second World War, which was even bloodier than the first, Armistice Day continued to be observed. In 1954, Congress changed the name of the holiday to Veterans Day to include veterans of all United States wars.

Today, Americans honor the service and sacrifice of our armed forces in the past as well as the present on Veterans Day. The official, national ceremony takes place at Arlington National Cemetery at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers. A color guard representing all the branches of the military executes "Present Arms" at the tomb, a Presidential wreath is placed on the graves, and a bugler plays "taps." In communities across the county, there are parades, ceremonies and speeches. At 11:00 in the morning, Americans are encouraged to observe a moment of silence to remember those who fought for freedom.

A Closer Look Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death! ~~ Patrick Henry March 23, 1775

I'll be honest with you - it is quite uncomfortable for me to take a closer look at Veterans Day. I am ashamed to admit that it wasn't until recently that I began to understand and appreciate the great freedom we enjoy as citizens of the United States. I am even more ashamed to admit that I had little appreciation for its cost. I grew up in an era when military service was not valued by a very vocal segment of our nation - much less honored. As a child, I witnessed night after night of students and others protesting the controversial Vietnam War on the evening news. Veterans who had put their lives on the line in service to their country were not welcomed home as heroes - but as outcasts. It was a time when I found it hard to imagine why anyone would voluntarily choose to enter the military. Looking back, the only word for our nation's treatment of our veterans during this period is - appalling.

Outside the Cocoon It wasn't until the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 that I began to peek outside of my comfortable cocoon in the United States at life in countries with little freedom. I saw the cruel treatment of women in many Middle Eastern countries as they were beaten for appearing on the street without male escorts - even if their only reason for venturing out was to purchase food for their children. I saw how girls in these countries are denied access to education and have no choice in their marriage partners. In Sudan, I learned of people - even children - tortured and murdered because they refuse to deny their faith in Jesus. In China, pregnant women are forced to abort their unborn children to comply with laws on family size. In Central American countries, those who publicly disagree with governmental policies often "mysteriously" disappear - never to be seen again. The list of human rights violations and atrocities outside of the United States is extensive.

Yet, here I sit - in the wealthiest nation on the earth - free to attend the church of my choice, to own as many Bibles as I can afford, to choose my own husband (or choose not to marry), to vote for the leaders of my government and even write a letter to the editor of the newspaper when I disagree with the decisions they make. And why can I enjoy these freedoms? Because the men and women in our armed forces understand that freedom has a cost. And since the birth of our nation, brave men and women have stepped forward, weighed the cost and chosen to lay down their lives in service to their fellow countrymen.

Thank you just isn't enough. We need to pass these truths on to future generations - and Veterans Day is a great place to start.

"Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." - John 15:13

A Yielded Heart

An excerpt from the devotional book: Jesus Calling: Enjoying Peace in His Presence by Sarah Young; (November 2 devotional page 321)

Scripture

Psalm 116:5-7

5 Gracious is the Lord, and righteous; our God is merciful.
6 The Lord preserves the simple; when I was brought low, he saved me.
7 Return, O my soul, to your rest; for the Lord has dealt bountifully with you.

Ephesians 5:20

20 giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,

Isaiah 30:15

15 For thus said the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel,
“In returning and rest you shall be saved  in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.” But you were unwilling,

(read from the perspective of Jesus speaking this devotional directly to you….)

Grow strong in the light of My Presence. Your weakness does not repel Me. On the contrary, it attracts My power, which is always available to flow into a yielded heart. Do not condemn yourself for your constant need of help. Instead, come to Me with your gaping neediness; let the Light of My Love fill you.

A yielded heart does not whine or rebel when the going gets rough. It musters the courage to thank Me even during hard times. Yielding yourself to My will is ultimately an act of trust. In quietness and trust is your strength.

Questions to Consider:

Reflect:

• Take a few moments to sit in quietness and listen to your heart. What is Jesus speaking to you?

• How are you experiencing Christ’s realness everyday?

• What is the best way you can shine the Light of Christ to others around you today?

(ie: being kind to your sibs, being respectful to others, taking out the trash (LOL), doing your homework without complaining, pay-if-forward)

Prayer:

Father God, when I sit still – I can know that you are God. In the quietness – you are there. In the wind, you are there. In the storm, you are there. You are everywhere at once and you listen to me. Thank you for loving me and being a place of refuge. Forgive me when I do not trust You enough or follow your commandments. Direct my heart to be Yours. Always with love – In Christ’s name I pray – Amen.