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Old Testament Lesson
Job 8:1-7, 11-19
We see Bildad respond to Job's words by saying that the only reason things like this happen is because of sin, and Job need to repent. But, Job says he has done nothing that should cause him to have to repent, which is true. If you remember the beginning of the book, Job is not suffering because of his actions, but because God has allowed the devil to test him.
If Job teaches us anything it is that sometimes bad things happen to good people for reasons not of their own causing. Sometimes, we bring misfortune upon ourselves. But, sometimes, it is the cause of the devil, or it because we living a in sinful world. It is those times when tragedy comes for no known reason we need God the most, for when the world brings pain and tears, only God can bring the comfort we need. When the world knocks the breath out of you, allow God to breathe life back into you.
New Testament Lesson
Acts 10:17-33
We see that God was calling both Peter and Cornelius to this; those that God has made clean, let no one say is unclean. Without the vision that Peter received, without the working of Paul in Gentile churches, those of us that are Gentile would not be Christian. This was a large hurdle for Peter to jump, but through God's grace he did. Those that God has made clean, let none of us say are unclean.
Gospel Lesson
John 7:14-36
We see that Jesus would teach and the people would say, what does he mean by this. . . They never understood, for only by the Holy Spirit opening our eyes, can we see. You can read all the Bible, you can go to church every Sunday, you can know all depths of knowledge. But, until the Holy Spirit opens you eyes, you won't be able to hear God's voice. Now, God is speaking, but without His spirit and His grace, we won't hear.
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Ordinary Time: Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Old Testament Lesson
Job 6:1, 7:1-21
One of the things we see about Job is he is unafraid to voice his complaints. There is a thin line between being someone that complains all the time and being someone that is not afraid to let others know when they are hurting. Part of being in relationships is the ability to help others and to allow others to help you.
We can't be helped by God until we admit we need help. We can't be forgiven until we ask forgiveness; we can't be comforted until we ask for comfort. Likewise, with our church, we can't receive the comfort and community it can give us until we allow it to become a vital part of our lives. Job was voicing his hurt today. While we don't want only to complain in life, we do need to let others know when we need their help.
New Testament Lesson
Acts 10:1-16
This is one of the great images in the the Bible. We see here that God is saying to Peter, all that He has made clean is clean. No longer must he live by the old dietary rules and the old Leviticus system, he was now to live by grace.
We are not saved by our works. We are not saved by the systems we live by. We not saved by our families. We are not saved by anything else but grace. Salvation comes through faith by grace. Peter could have eaten only clean animals, that was not salvation. Salvation comes by grace. Today, you are not saved by your actions, you are not saved by being a "good person." You are saved by believing in Jesus Christ and by making Him your Lord. That is through grace and grace alone.
Gospel Lesson
John 7:1-13
We see that Jesus was divisive. You had to have an opinion of Him. The same remains true today. You must have an opinion of Him. He must be your Lord, or He must just be a good fellow that had some good things to say. There really is no in between. Either He is the Lord of our life or He is just someone you read about.
There is no in between with Jesus. Which will it be today? Will you obey and serve Him? Will you follow Him or will you follow your way? The crowd was split on Him today; some believed, others didn't. Today, do you believe? Do you obey? Today, what is your opinion of Jesus?
Job 6:1, 7:1-21
One of the things we see about Job is he is unafraid to voice his complaints. There is a thin line between being someone that complains all the time and being someone that is not afraid to let others know when they are hurting. Part of being in relationships is the ability to help others and to allow others to help you.
We can't be helped by God until we admit we need help. We can't be forgiven until we ask forgiveness; we can't be comforted until we ask for comfort. Likewise, with our church, we can't receive the comfort and community it can give us until we allow it to become a vital part of our lives. Job was voicing his hurt today. While we don't want only to complain in life, we do need to let others know when we need their help.
New Testament Lesson
Acts 10:1-16
This is one of the great images in the the Bible. We see here that God is saying to Peter, all that He has made clean is clean. No longer must he live by the old dietary rules and the old Leviticus system, he was now to live by grace.
We are not saved by our works. We are not saved by the systems we live by. We not saved by our families. We are not saved by anything else but grace. Salvation comes through faith by grace. Peter could have eaten only clean animals, that was not salvation. Salvation comes by grace. Today, you are not saved by your actions, you are not saved by being a "good person." You are saved by believing in Jesus Christ and by making Him your Lord. That is through grace and grace alone.
Gospel Lesson
John 7:1-13
We see that Jesus was divisive. You had to have an opinion of Him. The same remains true today. You must have an opinion of Him. He must be your Lord, or He must just be a good fellow that had some good things to say. There really is no in between. Either He is the Lord of our life or He is just someone you read about.
There is no in between with Jesus. Which will it be today? Will you obey and serve Him? Will you follow Him or will you follow your way? The crowd was split on Him today; some believed, others didn't. Today, do you believe? Do you obey? Today, what is your opinion of Jesus?
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
Ordinary Time: Tuesday, August 29, 2006
Old Testament Lesson
Job 6:1-4, 8-15, 21
Job here begins to take on the words of his friends. Yesterday we read where his friends to tried to comfort him, but wound up saying the wrong things; today we see Job taking offense at what they said.
Their conversation basically comes down to this. The friend say, you must have done something wrong for this to have happened to you, repent of your sin, and God will restore you. Job says, correctly, that he hasn't done anything wrong at all. Sometimes, we are like those friends, when something bad happens to us or to those that we love, we think, well what did we do wrong to make this happen?
Sometimes, it is like Job. We didn't do anything wrong, these things just happen for a bigger reason sometimes. Sometimes these things just happen because we living a sinful world and bad things happened to good people. Sometimes these things happen for reasons that we just fully don't understand. And sometimes they do happen because o our actions. But, not all all the time. Today, Job knows these things didn't happen as punishment. Today, pray for wisdom to discern why things happen in our lives. Sometimes, it is punishment. But, not always. Don't assume when something bad happens, God is out to get you.
New Testament Lesson
Acts 9:32-43
We see two miracles in this text. In the first Peter heals someone, but he doesn't really heal them. In the text it says, Jesus Christ heal you. In the second, after Tabitha was raised from the dead, it says that many came to believe in Jesus. We see that in both miracles, it is Jesus that gets the praise, Jesus that gets the glory, Jesus that gets the worship.
God has blessed us with gifts and with callings. When we do something great for God; when we are faithful and great things happen, let's make sure He gets the glory. Peter today could have taken the glory, but instead he pointed to Jesus. When we do things for God, let us do the same. Let's not try to take the glory for ourselves, let's instead point at Jesus.
Gospel Lesson
John 6:60-71
We see in this passage many turn away from Jesus because they didn't like His teaching. It was harsh and hard to understand. They followed when they got what they wanted, they turned aways when the road got hard. Today, do you follow Jesus only when it is easy? Do you follow Jesus only when you can get something out of it? Do you follow Jesus only when it is what you want. I preached from this text Sunday and I'll share with you a phrase that was in my sermon: Jesus many that follow Him, few that obey.
Today, do you follow Jesus even when you don't know the way? Or do you turn away when the road becomes rough?
Job 6:1-4, 8-15, 21
Job here begins to take on the words of his friends. Yesterday we read where his friends to tried to comfort him, but wound up saying the wrong things; today we see Job taking offense at what they said.
Their conversation basically comes down to this. The friend say, you must have done something wrong for this to have happened to you, repent of your sin, and God will restore you. Job says, correctly, that he hasn't done anything wrong at all. Sometimes, we are like those friends, when something bad happens to us or to those that we love, we think, well what did we do wrong to make this happen?
Sometimes, it is like Job. We didn't do anything wrong, these things just happen for a bigger reason sometimes. Sometimes these things just happen because we living a sinful world and bad things happened to good people. Sometimes these things happen for reasons that we just fully don't understand. And sometimes they do happen because o our actions. But, not all all the time. Today, Job knows these things didn't happen as punishment. Today, pray for wisdom to discern why things happen in our lives. Sometimes, it is punishment. But, not always. Don't assume when something bad happens, God is out to get you.
New Testament Lesson
Acts 9:32-43
We see two miracles in this text. In the first Peter heals someone, but he doesn't really heal them. In the text it says, Jesus Christ heal you. In the second, after Tabitha was raised from the dead, it says that many came to believe in Jesus. We see that in both miracles, it is Jesus that gets the praise, Jesus that gets the glory, Jesus that gets the worship.
God has blessed us with gifts and with callings. When we do something great for God; when we are faithful and great things happen, let's make sure He gets the glory. Peter today could have taken the glory, but instead he pointed to Jesus. When we do things for God, let us do the same. Let's not try to take the glory for ourselves, let's instead point at Jesus.
Gospel Lesson
John 6:60-71
We see in this passage many turn away from Jesus because they didn't like His teaching. It was harsh and hard to understand. They followed when they got what they wanted, they turned aways when the road got hard. Today, do you follow Jesus only when it is easy? Do you follow Jesus only when you can get something out of it? Do you follow Jesus only when it is what you want. I preached from this text Sunday and I'll share with you a phrase that was in my sermon: Jesus many that follow Him, few that obey.
Today, do you follow Jesus even when you don't know the way? Or do you turn away when the road becomes rough?
Monday, August 28, 2006
Only for the really bored
You can click here to go to our church website where you can listen to my sermons as a podcast. I was planning on doing this more regularly, but my computer crashed a few months ago and I am just now getting back to doing everything like I'd like.
Enought excuses. Click here to listen to me preach, or here to go to Ole Miss sports.
Enought excuses. Click here to listen to me preach, or here to go to Ole Miss sports.
Ordinary Time: Monday, August 28, 2006
Old Testament Lesson
Job 4:1, 5:1-11, 17-21, 26-27
One of the conversations we see in Job is that his friends, bless their hearts, try to comfort him, but do it in the wrong way. Sometimes in life, we want to comfort others and are afraid to say the wrong thing. I understand that. We've all been there, meaning well, and the wrong words come out of our mouths.
Jobs friends started off well. They simply came and sat with their friend in silence for 7 days. They didn't come with all the answers; they didn't come thinking they could tell him one magic word and make it all better. They simply came and sat with their friend.
If you want to provide comfort to someone that is hurting, the best way is to simply be there. To sit with them, love them, be there. Think of you own life. You probably don't remember every word spoken to you in in times of pain. But, you probably remember those that where their, that showed their love in their presence there. That is the be best way that we can provide comfort to those hurting. Not in having the right words, but in simply being there.
New Testament Lesson
Acts 9:19b-31
We see in this passage one of the most important folks in all the Bible, but also one that doesn't get his proper due sometimes: Barnabas. When Paul was isolated, when no one wanted anything to do with him, when everyone was afraid of him, it was Barnabas that came and helped him. Barnabas encouraged him, Barnabas pleaded his case, Barnabas knew that God could save anyone, even Paul, who had persecuted the church.
Without Barnabas, Paul may have never been accepted by the others. Without Barnabas, Paul may have never traveled all over the word preaching, may not have written all of his letters, may not have been that missionary God called him be.
This was all because Barnabas didn't look at Paul for who he used to be, but who he could be in God's grace. Today, do we look at others for who they used to be, or who they can be?
Gospel Lesson
John 6:52-59
We see that when we eat His body and drink His blood, we will receive life. Wesley viewed communion as a what he called a "converting ordinance," that someone could be lost, come and receive Communion, realize their great need for Jesus and be converted right there.
The Lords' Supper sustains us, gives us grace. It is a means of grace. That means that just as we can receive God's grace through prayer, or through reading the word, we will also receive God's grace through Holy Communion. Can we go through motions with Communion? Of course. But, can't we also go through motions of prayer? We should always remember than when we receive Holy Communion that in that moment, we are receiving grace from our God and that grace will, if we allow, cause us to grow closer to our God.
Job 4:1, 5:1-11, 17-21, 26-27
One of the conversations we see in Job is that his friends, bless their hearts, try to comfort him, but do it in the wrong way. Sometimes in life, we want to comfort others and are afraid to say the wrong thing. I understand that. We've all been there, meaning well, and the wrong words come out of our mouths.
Jobs friends started off well. They simply came and sat with their friend in silence for 7 days. They didn't come with all the answers; they didn't come thinking they could tell him one magic word and make it all better. They simply came and sat with their friend.
If you want to provide comfort to someone that is hurting, the best way is to simply be there. To sit with them, love them, be there. Think of you own life. You probably don't remember every word spoken to you in in times of pain. But, you probably remember those that where their, that showed their love in their presence there. That is the be best way that we can provide comfort to those hurting. Not in having the right words, but in simply being there.
New Testament Lesson
Acts 9:19b-31
We see in this passage one of the most important folks in all the Bible, but also one that doesn't get his proper due sometimes: Barnabas. When Paul was isolated, when no one wanted anything to do with him, when everyone was afraid of him, it was Barnabas that came and helped him. Barnabas encouraged him, Barnabas pleaded his case, Barnabas knew that God could save anyone, even Paul, who had persecuted the church.
Without Barnabas, Paul may have never been accepted by the others. Without Barnabas, Paul may have never traveled all over the word preaching, may not have written all of his letters, may not have been that missionary God called him be.
This was all because Barnabas didn't look at Paul for who he used to be, but who he could be in God's grace. Today, do we look at others for who they used to be, or who they can be?
Gospel Lesson
John 6:52-59
We see that when we eat His body and drink His blood, we will receive life. Wesley viewed communion as a what he called a "converting ordinance," that someone could be lost, come and receive Communion, realize their great need for Jesus and be converted right there.
The Lords' Supper sustains us, gives us grace. It is a means of grace. That means that just as we can receive God's grace through prayer, or through reading the word, we will also receive God's grace through Holy Communion. Can we go through motions with Communion? Of course. But, can't we also go through motions of prayer? We should always remember than when we receive Holy Communion that in that moment, we are receiving grace from our God and that grace will, if we allow, cause us to grow closer to our God.
Friday, August 25, 2006
Ordinary Time: Friday, August 25, 2006
Old Testament Lesson
Job 2:1-13
Job's story is one that in many ways we can relate to, since we have all hurt and been through trials in our lives. But, Job's story is also one that is extreme, for while we may have hurt, very few of us have been through as much as Job has. The thing that stick with me in this passage is the presence of Job's friends.
Now, we will read that his friends aren't always the best support. Sometimes, they say things that are not correct and give bad advice. But, notice how they first came to Job. They wept with him. They sat in the ashes with him. The were silent with him.
Sometimes, when we have friends or family that are going through terrible times, we are a loss for what to say. In reality, it is not what we say. It is simply being there. It is about being present with them; letting them know you love them and you care.
Today, do you have someone you love that is hurting? That is suffering? It is not about the words you say to them. You don't have to find the perfect ones. Just show them you love them. That speaks louder than anything you could say.
New Testament Lesson
Acts 9:1-9
Sometimes, the Lord has to do some drastic things to get our attention. Paul was on the way to Damascus to destroy Christians. The Lord had to knock him down to get his attention. But, He didn't just knock Paul down for punishment, but because He had a plan for Paul.
Just think, if the Lord can use Paul, one that persecuted the church, one that saw Christians killed, can't he used us as well? God has something for you today. No matter how far you think you may have gone, you can come back home. Not matter how long it may have been, you can come back home. Read about what Paul did before he was saved. He was not a great fellow. But, God used him anyway. He can use us as well. The question is will we let Him?
Gospel Lesson
John 6:27-40
We see the work of God is to believe in Jesus Christ. We have much we need to do far God. I believe with all that I am that we are not saved to sit on the sidelines, we are saved to something for God. That being said, we must be saved first. It all starts with belief. While faith without words is dead, we must have faith to have any works at all. Today, you must first believe in Jesus Christ as Lord, you must believe that he was raised and ascended and will return, and most of all, you must have accepted him as savior and Lord.
That is where it starts. All the other things we are supposed to do are important. But, if first starts with belief. Today, do you believe?
Job 2:1-13
Job's story is one that in many ways we can relate to, since we have all hurt and been through trials in our lives. But, Job's story is also one that is extreme, for while we may have hurt, very few of us have been through as much as Job has. The thing that stick with me in this passage is the presence of Job's friends.
Now, we will read that his friends aren't always the best support. Sometimes, they say things that are not correct and give bad advice. But, notice how they first came to Job. They wept with him. They sat in the ashes with him. The were silent with him.
Sometimes, when we have friends or family that are going through terrible times, we are a loss for what to say. In reality, it is not what we say. It is simply being there. It is about being present with them; letting them know you love them and you care.
Today, do you have someone you love that is hurting? That is suffering? It is not about the words you say to them. You don't have to find the perfect ones. Just show them you love them. That speaks louder than anything you could say.
New Testament Lesson
Acts 9:1-9
Sometimes, the Lord has to do some drastic things to get our attention. Paul was on the way to Damascus to destroy Christians. The Lord had to knock him down to get his attention. But, He didn't just knock Paul down for punishment, but because He had a plan for Paul.
Just think, if the Lord can use Paul, one that persecuted the church, one that saw Christians killed, can't he used us as well? God has something for you today. No matter how far you think you may have gone, you can come back home. Not matter how long it may have been, you can come back home. Read about what Paul did before he was saved. He was not a great fellow. But, God used him anyway. He can use us as well. The question is will we let Him?
Gospel Lesson
John 6:27-40
We see the work of God is to believe in Jesus Christ. We have much we need to do far God. I believe with all that I am that we are not saved to sit on the sidelines, we are saved to something for God. That being said, we must be saved first. It all starts with belief. While faith without words is dead, we must have faith to have any works at all. Today, you must first believe in Jesus Christ as Lord, you must believe that he was raised and ascended and will return, and most of all, you must have accepted him as savior and Lord.
That is where it starts. All the other things we are supposed to do are important. But, if first starts with belief. Today, do you believe?
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Ordinary Time: Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Old Testament Lesson
Judges 18:16-31
We see that 2 generations after Moses and Aaron, their descendants were leading the people idol worship. All it takes is a step here, a step there, and before you know it, you are in a land you don't want to be in. I'm sure this descendants knew that God was God and knew that idol worship was wrong, but here they are.
Falling into destruction doesn't always start with the big things, quite often it is the little things that undo us. We allow sin to take over in small place and in small ways, and before we know it, we are worshiping idols. Anything that takes the place of God in your life is an idol.
At your conversion, you thought nothing could take the place of God. What about now? Small steps, small things, these are the things the lead us down the road of destruction.
New Testament Lesson
Acts 8:14-25
We see someone try to buy God's blessing today. The Apostles respond God's blessing is not for the buying, but only through belief. As important as it is to give God what is rightly His, we cannot "buy" His blessing. Just because you tithe doesn't mean you will enter in. God's blessings and God's gifts come only through belief by grace through faith. That is how you receive power that is how you receive His peace and mercy.
He could not buy it, he must believe and live a redeemed life. So must we.
Gospel Lesson
John 6:1-15
All it took for Jesus to do a miracle was the everyone doing their small part and most importantly, God's blessing. If God blesses our simple acts of service, great things will happen. They might not happen. They will happen. God will move. He will do great things. If we honestly and humbling do our part. If is what He wills, miracles will come forth.
Judges 18:16-31
We see that 2 generations after Moses and Aaron, their descendants were leading the people idol worship. All it takes is a step here, a step there, and before you know it, you are in a land you don't want to be in. I'm sure this descendants knew that God was God and knew that idol worship was wrong, but here they are.
Falling into destruction doesn't always start with the big things, quite often it is the little things that undo us. We allow sin to take over in small place and in small ways, and before we know it, we are worshiping idols. Anything that takes the place of God in your life is an idol.
At your conversion, you thought nothing could take the place of God. What about now? Small steps, small things, these are the things the lead us down the road of destruction.
New Testament Lesson
Acts 8:14-25
We see someone try to buy God's blessing today. The Apostles respond God's blessing is not for the buying, but only through belief. As important as it is to give God what is rightly His, we cannot "buy" His blessing. Just because you tithe doesn't mean you will enter in. God's blessings and God's gifts come only through belief by grace through faith. That is how you receive power that is how you receive His peace and mercy.
He could not buy it, he must believe and live a redeemed life. So must we.
Gospel Lesson
John 6:1-15
All it took for Jesus to do a miracle was the everyone doing their small part and most importantly, God's blessing. If God blesses our simple acts of service, great things will happen. They might not happen. They will happen. God will move. He will do great things. If we honestly and humbling do our part. If is what He wills, miracles will come forth.
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Ordinary Time: Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Old Testament Lesson
Judges 18:1-15
We see these men set out, and their concern most of all is that God had blessed there mission. Do we worry more about what men think about our mission, or about what God thinks? He is the one we should be concerned with. It is His blessing we should seek. It is His wisdom we need to have. We can have all the human praise in the world, but if we do not have God's blessing, if we are not following His will, in the end, it will not work.
New Testament Lesson
Acts 8:1-13
We see Paul enter the story here. But, at this time, he was named Saul, and he was working against God and working against His church. Here, he approved of the stoning of Stephen for preaching the Gospel. No matter what you've done in your life, if you allow, God will use you. He used Paul to start churches all over the world. He used Paul to write so many books in the Bible. He used Paul in a mighty and powerful way. He used Paul as much as any person has ever been used in history.
And Paul started off with the approval of Stephen's killing. No matter where you are right now, you can turn around, you can come home, you can be used by God. Paul was. You can be to.
Gospel Lesson
John 5:30-47
Jesus says that He has given witness to the truth, and He was not believed. Others have come and given witness to the truth, and they were not believed. Signs have been given. We just are not looking. God speaks to you ever day. Are you paying attention. God is not silent. We do not listen. Today, will you open your eyes, open your ears, open your soul to receive Him? He is there. Waiting and watching. Waiting for you. . . .
Judges 18:1-15
We see these men set out, and their concern most of all is that God had blessed there mission. Do we worry more about what men think about our mission, or about what God thinks? He is the one we should be concerned with. It is His blessing we should seek. It is His wisdom we need to have. We can have all the human praise in the world, but if we do not have God's blessing, if we are not following His will, in the end, it will not work.
New Testament Lesson
Acts 8:1-13
We see Paul enter the story here. But, at this time, he was named Saul, and he was working against God and working against His church. Here, he approved of the stoning of Stephen for preaching the Gospel. No matter what you've done in your life, if you allow, God will use you. He used Paul to start churches all over the world. He used Paul to write so many books in the Bible. He used Paul in a mighty and powerful way. He used Paul as much as any person has ever been used in history.
And Paul started off with the approval of Stephen's killing. No matter where you are right now, you can turn around, you can come home, you can be used by God. Paul was. You can be to.
Gospel Lesson
John 5:30-47
Jesus says that He has given witness to the truth, and He was not believed. Others have come and given witness to the truth, and they were not believed. Signs have been given. We just are not looking. God speaks to you ever day. Are you paying attention. God is not silent. We do not listen. Today, will you open your eyes, open your ears, open your soul to receive Him? He is there. Waiting and watching. Waiting for you. . . .
Friday, August 18, 2006
Ordinary Time: Friday, August 18, 2006
Old Testament Lesson
Judges 14:20-15:20
We see that the Lord used Sampson as a judge over His people. We also see that Sampson was not the world's nicest fellow. The one thing that is pounded into our head over and over again in the Old Testament is that God's promises are not dependant upon His people, rather they are dependant upon His word. And God never breaks His word.
He will remain true to His word and true to His promises. His faithfulness to us in not because we are worthy, but because He is God. God does not only use the perfect. If that were so, He would use no one, for none of us are perfect. God uses you and me, and can do great things through us, if we will allow. Sampson was not perfect, he was impulsive, and he was angry at times. But, the Lord has a plan for Him. If the story of Sampson doesn't convince you of anything, it should convince you of this, God can use any of us to do great things for His kingdom, even those of us that are not perfect. And, that would be us all, for none of us are perfect.
New Testament Lesson
Acts 7:17-29
We see Stephen continue his great sermon where he shows how God was working His plan which was ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ. God was always at work, getting things as they should be for the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. At just the right moment He was born. God has a time and a plan for everything. And, quite often, we don't understand the timing and plan. But, we do know that God is at work.
Today, He is at work at something great in your life. The details might now be known now; but they will be. Trust in Him; follow Him, and He will direct you to where you need to be.
Gospel Lesson
John 4:43-54
All throughout John, Jesus is doing many signs. Some believe, but many don't. Those that see these signs often then want to see more and more, saying they will believe. Signs from God many times require faith first. When you have faith, you see signs all around. When you have no faith, it is very hard to see signs. Today, there are signs of God's grace, love and mercy all around. The question is are you looking through the eyes of faith. That is what is often takes to see His signs.
Judges 14:20-15:20
We see that the Lord used Sampson as a judge over His people. We also see that Sampson was not the world's nicest fellow. The one thing that is pounded into our head over and over again in the Old Testament is that God's promises are not dependant upon His people, rather they are dependant upon His word. And God never breaks His word.
He will remain true to His word and true to His promises. His faithfulness to us in not because we are worthy, but because He is God. God does not only use the perfect. If that were so, He would use no one, for none of us are perfect. God uses you and me, and can do great things through us, if we will allow. Sampson was not perfect, he was impulsive, and he was angry at times. But, the Lord has a plan for Him. If the story of Sampson doesn't convince you of anything, it should convince you of this, God can use any of us to do great things for His kingdom, even those of us that are not perfect. And, that would be us all, for none of us are perfect.
New Testament Lesson
Acts 7:17-29
We see Stephen continue his great sermon where he shows how God was working His plan which was ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ. God was always at work, getting things as they should be for the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. At just the right moment He was born. God has a time and a plan for everything. And, quite often, we don't understand the timing and plan. But, we do know that God is at work.
Today, He is at work at something great in your life. The details might now be known now; but they will be. Trust in Him; follow Him, and He will direct you to where you need to be.
Gospel Lesson
John 4:43-54
All throughout John, Jesus is doing many signs. Some believe, but many don't. Those that see these signs often then want to see more and more, saying they will believe. Signs from God many times require faith first. When you have faith, you see signs all around. When you have no faith, it is very hard to see signs. Today, there are signs of God's grace, love and mercy all around. The question is are you looking through the eyes of faith. That is what is often takes to see His signs.
Thursday, August 17, 2006
Ordinary Time: Thursday, August 17, 2006
Sorry about the lack of posting this week, everything should be back to normal now
Old Testament Lesson
Judges 14:1-19
Sampson is really a hothead. He had been blessed by the Lord with great strength, and we see at the beginning of this passage that the Lord has a plan in all that would in sue, but as we see from reading this passage, he would act impulsively and do things just to show how strong or smart he was.
In life, we have been blessed. But, how do we use those gifts? Do we used them to give glory to God? Do we use them for His kingdom? Or do we use them for our glory? For our pride? Or our stuff? We must remember that we are to worship the giver of the gift, not the gift itself.
New Testament Lesson
Acts 6:15-7:16
This is Stephen's great sermon for the the council, the one that would lead to his death. Here he was, in front of these men that had the power to put him to death, and he still proclaimed the gospel. Friends, we should not fear other people, we should fear God. They do not have the power of judgement over us; only God. He is the one we must live to please, live to serve.
And when the moment comes when we are before a hostile crowd, He will give us the words. Do not fear. He will not leave you in that time of need; He will not abandon you when you are in front of those that desire your destruction. He will give you the grace to stand firm and speak boldly. He will not abandon you at that time.
Gospel Lesson
John 4:27-42
There is that great statement at the end of this passage. The people say they believe now not because of what they have been told, but because they have seen and experienced. Friends, it is not for you to hear that I believe in Jesus Christ and that He is my savior. It is not enough that I tell you how He has called me; how He has carried me; how He had provided for me. It is not enough for me to tell you of His mercy and grace and strength. For, you me telling you these things is not enough.
You must believe them and experience them for yourself. Do you?
Old Testament Lesson
Judges 14:1-19
Sampson is really a hothead. He had been blessed by the Lord with great strength, and we see at the beginning of this passage that the Lord has a plan in all that would in sue, but as we see from reading this passage, he would act impulsively and do things just to show how strong or smart he was.
In life, we have been blessed. But, how do we use those gifts? Do we used them to give glory to God? Do we use them for His kingdom? Or do we use them for our glory? For our pride? Or our stuff? We must remember that we are to worship the giver of the gift, not the gift itself.
New Testament Lesson
Acts 6:15-7:16
This is Stephen's great sermon for the the council, the one that would lead to his death. Here he was, in front of these men that had the power to put him to death, and he still proclaimed the gospel. Friends, we should not fear other people, we should fear God. They do not have the power of judgement over us; only God. He is the one we must live to please, live to serve.
And when the moment comes when we are before a hostile crowd, He will give us the words. Do not fear. He will not leave you in that time of need; He will not abandon you when you are in front of those that desire your destruction. He will give you the grace to stand firm and speak boldly. He will not abandon you at that time.
Gospel Lesson
John 4:27-42
There is that great statement at the end of this passage. The people say they believe now not because of what they have been told, but because they have seen and experienced. Friends, it is not for you to hear that I believe in Jesus Christ and that He is my savior. It is not enough that I tell you how He has called me; how He has carried me; how He had provided for me. It is not enough for me to tell you of His mercy and grace and strength. For, you me telling you these things is not enough.
You must believe them and experience them for yourself. Do you?
Monday, August 14, 2006
Ordinary Time: Monday, August 14, 2006
Another short quote today, tomorrow should be back to normal.
I believe what I believe
It's what makes me what I am
I did not make it
No, it is making me
It is the very truth of God
Not the invention of any man.
Rich Mullins
Today, are you allowing God to make you? Are you allowing his truth to have full access to your heart? That is the only way you will know God's peace.
I believe what I believe
It's what makes me what I am
I did not make it
No, it is making me
It is the very truth of God
Not the invention of any man.
Rich Mullins
Today, are you allowing God to make you? Are you allowing his truth to have full access to your heart? That is the only way you will know God's peace.
Friday, August 11, 2006
Ordinary Time: Friday, August 11, 2006
Just a quick thought today:
The great task of the Church is not only to get sinners into heaven, but also to get the saints out of bed.
--A. L. Todd
Today, what will God not be able to do through you and me because we will not make the effort to be faithful?
The great task of the Church is not only to get sinners into heaven, but also to get the saints out of bed.
--A. L. Todd
Today, what will God not be able to do through you and me because we will not make the effort to be faithful?
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Ordinary Time: Thursday, August 10, 2006
Old Testament Lesson
Judges 8:22-35
We see after his great success and trusting in God, Gideon leads the people in idolatry. He makes this ephod (a garment of high priest) and leads the people in worship of an idol. After all God had done for them, they now turn their backs; they now worship a false god, they now abandon what they know to be true.
I don't know why he did this, but could it possible be because Gideon became prideful? Perhaps he began to think that his victories where of his doing, not of God's. Friends, we must always be mindful that God deserves the glory and the praise and the honor. Any good we do is through His power and His grace. Let us never think too highly of ourselves for as the Proverbs says, its the pride that goes before the fall.
New Testament Lesson
Acts 4:1-12
Peter, who once denied, know boldly proclaims the gospel in front of the very group that worked to put Jesus to death. Notice, though, why he was able. The Word says he was filled with the Holy Spirit. That is why and how he could boldly proclaim. Apart from God working through us by the power of the Holy Spirit, we can't accomplish anything. But, through Him, we can do more than we could ever imagine.
Gospel Lesson
John 1:43-51
Phillip almost missed out on meeting Jesus because he thought that nothing good could come for Nazareth. One of the worst mistakes we can make is when we make snap judgements of people that we don't know. Phillip almost did that and almost missed Jesus. What chanced to minister have we passed up because we wrongly judged? What chances to experience God's grace have we missed because we already had our minds made up? Jesus came to Philip in an unexpected way. Today, be aware. Be on the look. God may approach you today in an unexpected way. Be looking, so that won't miss Him like Phillip almost did.
Judges 8:22-35
We see after his great success and trusting in God, Gideon leads the people in idolatry. He makes this ephod (a garment of high priest) and leads the people in worship of an idol. After all God had done for them, they now turn their backs; they now worship a false god, they now abandon what they know to be true.
I don't know why he did this, but could it possible be because Gideon became prideful? Perhaps he began to think that his victories where of his doing, not of God's. Friends, we must always be mindful that God deserves the glory and the praise and the honor. Any good we do is through His power and His grace. Let us never think too highly of ourselves for as the Proverbs says, its the pride that goes before the fall.
New Testament Lesson
Acts 4:1-12
Peter, who once denied, know boldly proclaims the gospel in front of the very group that worked to put Jesus to death. Notice, though, why he was able. The Word says he was filled with the Holy Spirit. That is why and how he could boldly proclaim. Apart from God working through us by the power of the Holy Spirit, we can't accomplish anything. But, through Him, we can do more than we could ever imagine.
Gospel Lesson
John 1:43-51
Phillip almost missed out on meeting Jesus because he thought that nothing good could come for Nazareth. One of the worst mistakes we can make is when we make snap judgements of people that we don't know. Phillip almost did that and almost missed Jesus. What chanced to minister have we passed up because we wrongly judged? What chances to experience God's grace have we missed because we already had our minds made up? Jesus came to Philip in an unexpected way. Today, be aware. Be on the look. God may approach you today in an unexpected way. Be looking, so that won't miss Him like Phillip almost did.
Wednesday, August 9, 2006
Ordinary Time: Wednesday, August 9, 2006
Old Testament Lesson
Judges 7:19-8:12
When we first met Gideon in the Scripture, he was scared. He was hiding. He was not looking to stand up for God. Now, we see him, and his confidence has grown, his service has grown, his trust in God has grown. Now, he is not afraid to fight, but he is confident the Lord will deliver the victory for him.
When we first do something for God, it can be terrifying. The first time you witness. The first time you pray in public. The fist time you preach. The first time you sing. The fist time you teach. The first time you give you testimony. Many of us know the fear and butterflies you get at that time.
But, when we serve the Lord, He increases our confidence. Because, we find we are not depending on our own strength, but on His strength. Today, take a step out for God. Do that thing He has called you to, but you have been afraid to do. That thing, and know that He will give you the strength and then He will give you the confidence to be faithful in what He has called you to.
New Testament Lesson
Acts 3:12-26
Peter was like Gideon. Something great had happened, but he knew it was through God's power it had happened. When God does something through us, the temptation is for us to take the credit; for us to say, yes, it was because of me this happened!
Peter says, he was healed not by us, but by God. And then, he used that as a chance to preach the Gospel. He used this occasion as a means to give witness to the salvation of Jesus Christ.
Each day, we will have chances to give witness to our faith. Do we take advantage of them? Or do we walk by on the other side? Peter preached boldly. What will wee do?
Gospel Lesson
John 1:29-42
And finally, we see once again that it is not about us. Today, two of John's disciples leave him to follow Jesus. Does he get mad? Does he storm off to Jesus and say, hey, they are mine! No, he knows there is a greater purpose than just his life and just his ministry. He is part of a greater whole. His purpose in life was to be faithful and point the way to Jesus.
That is is our purpose as well. Today, does your life point to Jesus? Today, are you faithful to Him in all that you are: you time, you talents, you gifts, and your service? Today, do you point to Jesus?
Judges 7:19-8:12
When we first met Gideon in the Scripture, he was scared. He was hiding. He was not looking to stand up for God. Now, we see him, and his confidence has grown, his service has grown, his trust in God has grown. Now, he is not afraid to fight, but he is confident the Lord will deliver the victory for him.
When we first do something for God, it can be terrifying. The first time you witness. The first time you pray in public. The fist time you preach. The first time you sing. The fist time you teach. The first time you give you testimony. Many of us know the fear and butterflies you get at that time.
But, when we serve the Lord, He increases our confidence. Because, we find we are not depending on our own strength, but on His strength. Today, take a step out for God. Do that thing He has called you to, but you have been afraid to do. That thing, and know that He will give you the strength and then He will give you the confidence to be faithful in what He has called you to.
New Testament Lesson
Acts 3:12-26
Peter was like Gideon. Something great had happened, but he knew it was through God's power it had happened. When God does something through us, the temptation is for us to take the credit; for us to say, yes, it was because of me this happened!
Peter says, he was healed not by us, but by God. And then, he used that as a chance to preach the Gospel. He used this occasion as a means to give witness to the salvation of Jesus Christ.
Each day, we will have chances to give witness to our faith. Do we take advantage of them? Or do we walk by on the other side? Peter preached boldly. What will wee do?
Gospel Lesson
John 1:29-42
And finally, we see once again that it is not about us. Today, two of John's disciples leave him to follow Jesus. Does he get mad? Does he storm off to Jesus and say, hey, they are mine! No, he knows there is a greater purpose than just his life and just his ministry. He is part of a greater whole. His purpose in life was to be faithful and point the way to Jesus.
That is is our purpose as well. Today, does your life point to Jesus? Today, are you faithful to Him in all that you are: you time, you talents, you gifts, and your service? Today, do you point to Jesus?
Tuesday, August 8, 2006
Ordinary Time: Tuesday, August 8, 2006
Old Testament Lesson
Judges 7:1-18
Who ever thought, wow, we have too many people to get the job done? That's what God is saying today. He knows that if the army is that big, the Israelites will think they won the battle not because of the Lord, but because of their own might.
A couple of things here. First do we focus too much on numbers? Lets say you teach Sunday School and only have 3 show up one day. That's discouraging. Believe me, as a preacher, I understand. But, the thing we do is that we look at the numbers and think about who isn't there instead of focusing on who is. Jesus said where two or three are gather in my name, there I'll be. Today, God would rather have a a faithful few than a multitude that really didn't care. We should think the same way.
Second, who gets the glory for victories? Are we quick to claim credit for victory but pass off blame for success. Someone once said "success has a thousand fathers but failure is an orphan." If anything, God should get the credit for our success and we should take the blame for our failures. Today, God wanted all to know the victory was because of Him. In our lives, does He get the credit He deserves for the victories?
New Testament Lesson
Acts 3:1-11
Sometimes we focus on what we can't do. Peter and John could have told this man, we have nothing to give and walked away. Instead, they gave from what they had, which was a knowledge of Jesus Christ. We always have something to share. Maybe a kind word, maybe a hug, maybe a prayer, maybe an invitation, maybe just a quick smile.
The Lord had blessed us which much. Maybe not all the money in the world, but He has given us something that we can share with others. Because, if nothing else, we have a knowledge of the saving power of Jesus Christ. Have you shared that recently? Have you shared your faith within anyone recently? Have you given witness to your faith? We have this faith for many reasons, but one of those reasons is to share. Are we sharing it?
Gospel Lesson
John 1:19-28
John's job was to point to Jesus and make things ready for His coming. Is that not our job as well? Are we not to point to Jesus with all that we do and all that we are? And are we not to live in such a way that if He were to return today we could hold our head up high?
John pointed to Jesus with his life and lived in the reality of His soon coming. Do we do the same?
Judges 7:1-18
Who ever thought, wow, we have too many people to get the job done? That's what God is saying today. He knows that if the army is that big, the Israelites will think they won the battle not because of the Lord, but because of their own might.
A couple of things here. First do we focus too much on numbers? Lets say you teach Sunday School and only have 3 show up one day. That's discouraging. Believe me, as a preacher, I understand. But, the thing we do is that we look at the numbers and think about who isn't there instead of focusing on who is. Jesus said where two or three are gather in my name, there I'll be. Today, God would rather have a a faithful few than a multitude that really didn't care. We should think the same way.
Second, who gets the glory for victories? Are we quick to claim credit for victory but pass off blame for success. Someone once said "success has a thousand fathers but failure is an orphan." If anything, God should get the credit for our success and we should take the blame for our failures. Today, God wanted all to know the victory was because of Him. In our lives, does He get the credit He deserves for the victories?
New Testament Lesson
Acts 3:1-11
Sometimes we focus on what we can't do. Peter and John could have told this man, we have nothing to give and walked away. Instead, they gave from what they had, which was a knowledge of Jesus Christ. We always have something to share. Maybe a kind word, maybe a hug, maybe a prayer, maybe an invitation, maybe just a quick smile.
The Lord had blessed us which much. Maybe not all the money in the world, but He has given us something that we can share with others. Because, if nothing else, we have a knowledge of the saving power of Jesus Christ. Have you shared that recently? Have you shared your faith within anyone recently? Have you given witness to your faith? We have this faith for many reasons, but one of those reasons is to share. Are we sharing it?
Gospel Lesson
John 1:19-28
John's job was to point to Jesus and make things ready for His coming. Is that not our job as well? Are we not to point to Jesus with all that we do and all that we are? And are we not to live in such a way that if He were to return today we could hold our head up high?
John pointed to Jesus with his life and lived in the reality of His soon coming. Do we do the same?
Monday, August 7, 2006
Ordinary Time: Monday, August 7, 2006
Old Testament Lesson
Judges 6:25-40
We see that Gideon is a lot like we are. He does great things for God. He cuts down the alter to Bael, but he does it at night because he is afraid. He is ready to do what God wants, but only after God gives a sign. One of the greatest things to me about God's Word is that in it, we see folks just like you and me. Imperfect folks, folks that make mistakes, folks that are afraid, folks that doubt, folks that are not perfect. Every major person int eh Bible (except for God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit) does something stupid at some point. They all act our of fear or doubt, they all do things that they know they should not do; they all doubt.
That to me is the power of God. He takes imperfect people and does great things with them. Today, don't look at your imperfections, don't look at your failings. Look at God, and see what He can do with you and through you, if you will allow.
New Testament Lesson
Acts 2:37-47
Here is a great example the above point. Look at Peter. Bless his heart. Look in the Gospels, see the foolish things he does, the way he speaks before thinking, the way he doubts, the way that he even denies Jesus not once, not twice, but three times. He did many, many things wrongs and acted foolishly in many ways.
But, look at today. See how God used Him to see thousands saved. What was the difference? It was the power of God working through him by the power of the Holy Spirit. Peter hadn't changed himself, God had changed him. That is what God can do. God can change and strengthen even Peter. Think what He can do with you and me, if we will allow.
Gospel Lesson
John 1:1-18
The Word became flesh and lived among us. That is one of the most powerful passages in all the Bible. God Himself, through Jesus Christ, came and lived among us. He came and thought us how to live, how to love, how to serve and to die for our sins and for our salvation.
The creator laid down His life for the creation. We don't serve a foreign God, we don't serve a God that does not know our hurts, our fears, our problems. We serve a God that lived as we live, and suffered as we suffered. He did this is to save us and to allow us to rise above that suffering and to show us that even in our darkest moments, we are not alone.
Today, you are not alone. God is with you, even now. All you have to do is reach out, and He's there. The Word became flesh and lived among us.
Judges 6:25-40
We see that Gideon is a lot like we are. He does great things for God. He cuts down the alter to Bael, but he does it at night because he is afraid. He is ready to do what God wants, but only after God gives a sign. One of the greatest things to me about God's Word is that in it, we see folks just like you and me. Imperfect folks, folks that make mistakes, folks that are afraid, folks that doubt, folks that are not perfect. Every major person int eh Bible (except for God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit) does something stupid at some point. They all act our of fear or doubt, they all do things that they know they should not do; they all doubt.
That to me is the power of God. He takes imperfect people and does great things with them. Today, don't look at your imperfections, don't look at your failings. Look at God, and see what He can do with you and through you, if you will allow.
New Testament Lesson
Acts 2:37-47
Here is a great example the above point. Look at Peter. Bless his heart. Look in the Gospels, see the foolish things he does, the way he speaks before thinking, the way he doubts, the way that he even denies Jesus not once, not twice, but three times. He did many, many things wrongs and acted foolishly in many ways.
But, look at today. See how God used Him to see thousands saved. What was the difference? It was the power of God working through him by the power of the Holy Spirit. Peter hadn't changed himself, God had changed him. That is what God can do. God can change and strengthen even Peter. Think what He can do with you and me, if we will allow.
Gospel Lesson
John 1:1-18
The Word became flesh and lived among us. That is one of the most powerful passages in all the Bible. God Himself, through Jesus Christ, came and lived among us. He came and thought us how to live, how to love, how to serve and to die for our sins and for our salvation.
The creator laid down His life for the creation. We don't serve a foreign God, we don't serve a God that does not know our hurts, our fears, our problems. We serve a God that lived as we live, and suffered as we suffered. He did this is to save us and to allow us to rise above that suffering and to show us that even in our darkest moments, we are not alone.
Today, you are not alone. God is with you, even now. All you have to do is reach out, and He's there. The Word became flesh and lived among us.
We're back!!
Back from vacation, had a great time. Posting will be back to normal this week and the weeks to come!
Saturday, August 5, 2006
Wednesday, August 2, 2006
Ordinary Time: Wednesday, August 2, 2006
Gospel Lesson
Matthew 27:45-54
Jesus Christ died so that we could be forgiven. Let's not brush past this point. This is a not a fairy tale, this is not something that we preachers make up to make you feel bad. The Son of God, the one that loves us more than we could ever know, the one that shows us what God's love is like died an agonizing, terrible death.
For you and for me. So we could be forgiven. So that our sins could be washed away.
He suffered and died. For you and for me. He endured all of this for you and for me.
And yet, we don't want to come to church because its early. He was nailed to a cross for us, we won't wake up an hour earlier.
He was abused for us.
And yet, we don't want to witness to that person at work, because what will they think?
He did so much for us and for our eternity.
Why do we do so little for Him?
Matthew 27:45-54
Jesus Christ died so that we could be forgiven. Let's not brush past this point. This is a not a fairy tale, this is not something that we preachers make up to make you feel bad. The Son of God, the one that loves us more than we could ever know, the one that shows us what God's love is like died an agonizing, terrible death.
For you and for me. So we could be forgiven. So that our sins could be washed away.
He suffered and died. For you and for me. He endured all of this for you and for me.
And yet, we don't want to come to church because its early. He was nailed to a cross for us, we won't wake up an hour earlier.
He was abused for us.
And yet, we don't want to witness to that person at work, because what will they think?
He did so much for us and for our eternity.
Why do we do so little for Him?
Tuesday, August 1, 2006
Ordinary Time: Tuesday, August 1, 2006
I'm sitting in Memphis waiting on my wife to finish something and I'm looking at the greatest sign I've ever seen. It says "Methodist Recruitment." I laughed out loud when I saw it. I asked Holly if that was how they got folks to come to church up here. Actually its for Methodist healthcare.
Businesses recruit folks to come work for them. Ole Miss and State recuit folks. We at the church sometimes just expect folk to just come on there on. But they don't.
So, we have to invite. We have to prod. We have to make an effort. When was the last time you invited someone to church?
Methodist Healthcare is inviting folks. Are we?
Look out Lady Rockets!
Neshoba Central has really, really great fastpitch softball teams, and I think we've found the next great Lady Rocket! Go Redbirds!
Great night for a game. If you have never been to Autozone Park, you really need to if you are ever in Memphis. Sarah had fun for about 6 innings, which is pretty good for a 2 year old!
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