Last Sunday, we lit the candle of Hope, mindful of the hope that Jesus’ birth would bring to the world. This Sunday, we will light the candle of love. God, in His Word, tells us that He loves us. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only son, that…
This Sunday begins the season of Advent – the “arrival.” As we enter into the Christmas season, we begin to schedule parties, plan shopping adventures, family gatherings, exploring all of the lights and festivities that this season brings. As recipients of the greatest Christmas gift of all, we often find ourselves focusing on all the…
We, as a Nation, have often been complacent in our expression of thanks for the fact that so many have served to provide the protection and freedoms we enjoy as Americans. With our freedom to worship God seemingly always under attack both from outside forces and those inside America, I believe we as churches should…
One way to become more firmly planted in God’s family is to build new relationships. This week, come to church 10 minutes early and stay 10 minutes late. Use those extra 20 minutes to meet with people and interact with them. Help those who may be visitors. Also, there are numerous areas where you can…
In the Bible, Jesus had many disciples. There were the forty that He sent out; He had twelve that He personally called to follow Him; and then there were the three – Peter, James, and John. Real discipleship takes place in many groups but there seems to be something special when it happens in small,…
This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. Joshua 1:8 The writer of the Book of Hebrews says that the word of God is living and active, sharper…
“Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us). Matthew 1:23 The Christmas season is filled with family, friends, and activities – and yet there are many that feel isolated and alone. During these “dark” times, it can seem that no one knows us,…
This past week was filled with turkey, family, and Black Friday sales. Oh, and family turkeys! The year is winding down and we’re getting busy making plans and preparations for different events at church and at home. As we enter the second week of Advent, I find myself hoping for different things. A little peace,…
12 Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall. 1 Corinthians 10:12 King David was coming off about twenty years of spiritual success. He was walking with God – a man after God’s heart. He didn’t wake up one day with the intention of falling into sin – he was caught off guard. Many of us don’t think that…
In Genesis 2:18, God says that it is not good for man to be alone. God in His infinite wisdom knew it was not good to be alone and so He created a helper. Someone to share responsibilities, comfort, confront, and encourage. Today, however, we have changed that. We say it is better to do…